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Air Cadet named as one of the nation's 500 Coronation Champions

Cpl Kaszewski of 1105 (City of Winchester) Sqn has been named as one of the nation’s Coronation Champions by the Royal Voluntary Service.

The Royal Air Force Air Cadet was chosen following a national campaign to recognise those helping the communities they live in.

Cpl Kaszewski said it was an honour to be named as a Coronation Champion.

"We all work hard to make a difference and it’s impressive to have my volunteering efforts recognised," he said. 

"I hope this will interest more of the public to join the Air Cadets."

Cpl Maciek was praised as an outstanding cadet by the OC of 1105 (City of Winchester) Sqn, Warrant Officer Mark Holdaway RAFAC.

"He has achieved so much in his time with us," said WO Holdaway.  

"He is the first to volunteer to help, and gives up a lot of time outside of parade evenings to support events in the local community.

"He is an excellent role model and encourages others to try new activities and challenges them to expand their comfort zone.  He is a brilliant advocate for our Squadron and the RAFAC, he is very deserving of this award and we are proud that he is being recognised for his achievements."

The Coronation Champions Awards recognise a diverse group of volunteers from different backgrounds and communities across the UK from a range of causes.

They must be over the age of 14 and who may have overcome adversity or discovered creative ways to support their local communities within the last five years.

All 500 Coronation Champions will receive a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a signed certificate from His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla.

Kaszewski, from New Alresford, has also been invited to attend an official Coronation celebration.

He is pictured receiving his certificate from Sqn Ldr Graeme Hughes.

Catherine Johnstone CBE, Chief Executive of Royal Voluntary Service said: “We were completely blown away by the response to the Community Champions Awards and the huge volume of amazing nominees put forward. Our judges had a tough job selecting just 500 Champions from an array of thousands of inspirational individuals, who all deserve to be recognised and commended.

“Each of our Coronation Champions displayed a commitment and contribution that far exceeds any expectation and we’re overjoyed to honour and thank them during this exciting point in history.”

Those feeling inspired to try volunteering themselves are encouraged to take part in The Big Help Out on Monday 8 May. The Big Help Out is another official Coronation project, aiming to encourage newcomers to volunteering, bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation weekend.

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