A 18-year-old Inverness air cadet is making her mark on history as she prepares to join the ranks of the Royal Air Force.
Cadet Warrant Officer Georgi McMinn of 161 – 1st Highland Squadron in Inverness, will begin 10 weeks of gruelling basic training at RAF Halton next week before setting her sights on becoming a medic for the RAF’s Medical Emergency Response Team.
With her life-long dream firmly in her sights, she became a prestigious member of the British Red Cross first aid team assisting at various events including Baxters Loch Ness Marathon.
Georgi said: “It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do, honestly. It’s surreal that it actually is happening but I’m thrilled. No doubt it’s going to be a whole different kettle of fish to what I’m used to.
“Think lack of sleep and being away from home will be some of the worst things for me initially and I don’t doubt there’s some long days ahead of me in basic training but I just got to keep your head down and get on with the task at hand.
“I’m looking forward to all the new opportunities, places I’ll get to go and friends I’ll make. It’ll be a good change, for sure.”
This is the latest milestone for the Inverness teen having become the first air cadet to take up the role of Senior Drum Major in the Cadet Forces Pipes and Drums band and moving up the promotion ranks to become the highest ranked cadet in her squadron.
She added: “The squadron is such a great and safe place for young people, I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the guidance and opportunities I’ve been offered.
“It’s what you make of it. My heart is so full, and I hope everyone that’s a part of 161 also feels as loved and valued as I do just now.”
Commanding officer Flight Sergeant Neil Jack said: “Georgi has been part of the Sqn for 5 years and has achieved so much for herself. We will all deeply miss her as she leaves to start recruit training with the RAF as a Medic.”