27/04/2025
Our community might have noticed that our Squadron ensign is currently flying at half-mast while we are present in the building (see picture in the comments).
This is to commemorate the sad passing of one of our Wing Staff, Sqn Ldr Mark Bodger. He has provided hugely valuable support to all Squadrons across Dorset & Wiltshire Wing, not just ours.
Our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and all his Royal Air Force Air Cadets volunteer colleagues at this truly sad time. Blue Skies, Sir 🫡💙
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Sqn Ldr Mark Bodger, Chief of Staff - Support, Deputy Officer Commanding Dorset and Wiltshire Wing.
Sqn Ldr Bodger has been a significant figure in the Wing, starting his Air Cadet career as a cadet at Poole Squadron. On leaving as a cadet, he returned and took a Volunteer Reserve Training (VRT) commission as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer.
He held various roles within the Wing, most recently serving as Shooting Officer, before assuming the role of Deputy Officer Commanding, Dorset and Wiltshire Wing.
Sqn Ldr Bodger has not only left his legacy within the Wing but also across the wider Corps from his time as a Small Arms Training Team Instructor, Wing Aviation Officer and Camp Commandant on multiple occasions.
In addition to his volunteering with the Air Cadets, he played a very active role in his local amateur dramatics’ societies, taking on the Chair of Ringwood Musical & Dramatic Society, and was a highly valued member of the Poulner Players and Verwood Pantomime Society.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this time.
On behalf of Dorset and Wiltshire Wing - Clear skies and fair weather, Sir. You will be greatly missed but not forgotten.
“When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.”
– Leonardo DaVinci.
