Being Mr Miss vice

For 795 squadron, this year's dining in night was not only a chance to wear bow ties and eat delicious food but it was also a chance for a touch of squadron history in the making. For the first time Harpenden squadron was to have a female vice-president and I had been chosen to take this opportunity to be the first miss vice. Large quantities of apprehension had entered my stomach that evening as I took my post at the base of the E shape in which the tables had been arranged. I knew too well every eye in the room was on me as I fulfilled my first duty of leading the guests to their seats.

Soon after the first delicious course of pate, salad and rolls the serving personnel were soon presenting us with lamb shank for the main course followed by lemon tart to finish. By this point I knew my time was up and I was, after tea and coffee nearing my second duty, a toast to the queen.

As Flt Lt Hatton introduced the toasts I rose from my seat wondering suddenly if my fellow cadets had had the heart to sew my dress to the table as I had heard of such unfortunate mishaps happening to 'vices' before me. Happily I was not attached and raising my glass I said, 'Ladies and Gentlemen, the Queen' as was my obligation.

After this I had the privilege of moving up to sit in the president's seat and as I was told by Flt Lt Hatton to take control of them… Sitting there I invited Cpl Poppe and CWO Pratt to join me at the top table to accompany me there as 795's first Miss vice.

Cdt Poppe