Ruthin Air Cadets are gaining hands-on experience in everything from flying and gliding to abseiling and kayaking.
Clwyd West MS Darren Millar visited the squadron recently describing the evening as 'an informative and inspiring visit.'
Mr Millar said: "Being an Air Cadet is a rewarding and fulfilling experience and I was delighted to meet with the cadets in Ruthin last week to find out more about how being a cadet is benefitting them.
"My visit was both informative and inspiring.
"I spoke with several cadets across different ranks and ages, who all expressed enthusiasm about the programme and highlighted personal growth in confidence, leadership, and time management."
Air Cadets meet twice weekly, with the Ruthin squadron gathering on Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm to 9.30pm.
The programme offers young people opportunities, including leadership courses, air experience flights, pilot training, and both UK and overseas camps.
Mr Millar, who led the Senedd’s Cross Party Group on the Armed Forces and Cadets for more than 15 years, praised the volunteers behind the squadron.
He said: "During my visit, the staff, made up of dedicated volunteers, emphasised their commitment to youth development and creating a supportive learning environment.
"Both the staff and the cadets in the Ruthin squadron are a welcoming, friendly bunch, and I would encourage any young person interested in gaining a diverse range of skills to consider joining them."
He also stressed that the Air Cadets is not a direct recruitment route into the RAF.
He said: "The Air Cadets are not a recruiting organisation for the main RAF, so all the skills the cadets learn and experiences they gain will benefit whatever career path they choose.
"All Air Cadets can also benefit from training and gain qualifications that will be useful for all career choices, both in and out of the RAF."
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Cllr Anne Roberts MBE, who accompanied Mr Millar on the visit, also praised the squadron.
She said: "It was an absolute pleasure to visit the Ruthin squadron with Darren and meet the wonderful cadets.
"They are a lovely group, and it would be great to see more young people getting involved and taking advantage of the many opportunities the Air Cadets provides."
The next Ruthin Air Cadets recruitment intake begins on Monday, September 8.
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