Kate's badge of honour: The Duchess of Cambridge dazzles in prestigious diamond Dacre brooch to mark the 75th anniversary of the RAF Air Cadets

She may have been keeping a relatively low profile of late but the Duchess of Cambridge made a colourful return today as she attended her first official engagement of the year.

The royal, 34, was elegant in a blue custom-made Alexander McQueen coat as she joined the Air Cadets to mark their 75th anniversary, as Honorary Air Commandant of the organisation.

Her perfectly coiffed locks were offset by a black Lock and Co hat and she wore an Air Cadets Dacre brooch, known to be the highest award any female cadet can achieve.

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Royal welcome: The Duchess of Cambridge, Honorary Air Commandant, joined members of the RAF Air Cadets to mark their 75th anniversary for her first official engagement of the year. She wore the Dacre brooch (pictured) known to be the highest honour a female cadet can receive 

Dressed to impress: The Duchess managed to give off a military air in her custom-made Alexander McQueen coat - an outfit she first sported in New Zealand

The brooch was once awarded to the best all-round female cadet each year but since the tradition ended last year the Air Cadets presented the pin to the Duchess following her appointment as their new patron.  

The thrifty Duchess is well known for recycling outfits and today was no exception, having first been pictured in the coat in 2014 during a visit to New Zealand where she lay a wreath in the town of Blenheim in memory of the war dead. 

Today was a lighter occasion as hundreds of well-wishers lined London's Strand as she greeted members of the Air Cadets, marking her first engagement for them since her appointment last year.

The Duke of Edinburgh passed his patronage of the RAF Air Cadets on to the Duchess in December 2015, after 63 years serving as Air Commodore-in-Chief.

Kate is attending a service at RAF church St Clement Danes, London, and then will proceed to a reception held nearby at the Royal Courts of Justice, giving Cadets the opportunity to introduce their new patron.

There the Duchess will also learn more about their numerous programmes and activities by meeting a selection of current cadets, veterans and adult volunteers.

KATE'S AIR CADETS DACRE BROOCH: THE HIGHEST OF HONOURS 

It was hard to miss Kate's spectacular brooch that could be seen below the collar of her Alexander McQueen coat that she wore during the 75th anniversary of the Air Cadets today.

However, some may be surprised to see it on the Duchess as The Dacre Brooch is usually only bestowed to those who are Air Cadets themselves and is said to be the highest honour that a female cadet can achieve. 

The tradition of the brooch originated in 1979 when Mrs Elizabeth Dacre MBE TD JP presented to the Air Training Corps the dress sword of her late husband, Air Commodore G B Dacre CBE DSO DL RAF to be awarded to the 'ATC Cadet of the Year.' 

As girls began to join the cadets in 1982, Mrs Dacre presented the Corps with a diamond and ruby brooch mounted on a sash, for presentation to the best female cadet.

From then on each year one male member of the cadets would be awarded with the sword and a female with the sash and brooch with the selection based on their all-round performance throughout the year.

This tradition took place until last year when it was decided that the girls should receive the Dacre sword like their male counterparts. 

Ms Conder who was the best female cadet in 2015 told the Telegraph: 'It is quite an honour (to wear the brooch). I was the last cadet to wear it, and now she is wearing it. It is the best accesory.'

Although the Duchess is not a cadet they seem to think she was deserving of the brooch. A spokesperson from Buckingham Palace says that the cadets presented the brooch to the Duchess as a gift following her appointment as Honorary Air Commandant of the organisation.

Source: Royal Air Force Air Cadets 

Marking the occasion: Kate is attending a service at RAF church St Clement Danes, London, and then will proceed to a reception held nearby at the Royal Courts of Justice, giving Cadets the opportunity to introduce their new Patron

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The Duchess of Cambridge arrived at St Clement Danes to help the RAF Air Cadets mark their 75th anniversary. Although it has been 75 years for the Air Cadets, it was a first for the Duchess who was attending the engagement officially for the first time as an honorary Air Commandant.

This wasn't something the Duchess took lightly, dressing for the occasion in a smart Alexander McQueen coat that was in a blue hue. Of course for us, seeing Kate at an event is always a good excuse to update our closets and her custom-made coat is really going to help us beat those winter blues.

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A REGAL FAMILY HERITAGE: HOW KATE'S 'TOP GUN' GRANDFATHER FLEW WITH PRINCE PHILIP

Early royal connections: Flight Lieutenant Peter Middleton - Kate's grandfather - pictured with Prince Philip in 1962. The pair would spend two months flying together in South America

The Duchess of Cambridge's grandfather, Peter Middleton, enjoyed an illustrious career as a pilot - and once spent two months flying with Prince Philip in South America.

Middleton, who died in 2010, served as an RAF fighter pilot who used the wing tips of his Mosquito warplane to divert deadly German 'doodlebug' flying bombs away from London.  

Flying Officer Middleton was posted to the No 37 Service Flying School in Calgary in 1942, when he was a volunteer reservist aged just 22. 

He spent two-and-a-half years as an instructor, training Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster pilots.

He was said to have excellent flying and communication skills, so it was no surprise that he later became an unsung hero in the air war against Hitler's Luftwaffe.

After joining the reservist 605 Squadron at Manston, near Ramsgate, Kent, in August 1944, Middleton embarked on numerous dangerous missions.

Showing incredible courage, he was deployed in a de Havilland Mosquito fighter bomber to nudge the wings of unmanned German V1 flying missiles to divert them from London.

The deadly 'doodlebugs', launched from France, could each destroy at least three houses. About 8,000 were launched at Britain and more than 2,000 hit London, killing thousands.

Middleton was among a group of elite RAF 'top guns' used to push the V1s off-course. Despite risking his life on an almost nightly basis, it is not thought that he received an honour for his bravery. 

After being demobbed in 1946, Middleton flew Tridents with British European Airways, a forerunner of British Airways. 

And in 1962, he made the Middleton family's first direct royal connection when he acted as First Officer to the Duke of Edinburgh on a two-month flying tour of South America.

Prince Philip piloted 49 of the tour's 62 flights, often with Middleton - who had been specially chosen for the tour by BEA -- by his side. Middleton was later sent a letter of thanks and a pair of gold cufflinks from Buckingham Palace.

Kate was close to her grandfather and after his death at the age of 90, she delayed the announcement of her engagement to Prince William by several days.

The South American temporary visa that was issued to Peter Middleton ahead of his tour with Prince Philip in the early Sixties

Carol Vorderman, an honorary ambassador for the Air Cadets, tweeted her support for the royal. She said: 'All of us in @aircadets are delighted today to be welcoming our Honorary Air Commandant, the Duchess of Cambridge.' 

Carol, whose two children both attended the Air Cadets, was dressed in her full uniform and tweeted that she was 'feeling emotional' early this morning. Her emotions seemed to show as she was pictured wiping away a tear during today's festivities. 

Mathematician Carol, believes that Kate will be a big help in attracting women in to what is often seen as a male-dominated sector.

She said: 'I think it is fantastic. Obviously Kate is possibly the most famous woman internationally - I would imagine.

Guest of honour: Her perfectly coiffed locks were offset by a black Lock and Co hat and she appeared in high spirits as she wore an Air Cadets Dacre brooch, known to be the highest award any female cadet can achieve

The Duchess is pictured talking to Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty who said she was thrilled to have the Duchess at the special event

Raising the roof: Kate is seen singing from a hymn book during today's service in the RAF church St Clement Danes, London

One is amused: Kate appeared to be in good spirits after singing along side the cadets during the church service 

Royal duty: Kate was appointed as Honorary Air Commandant in December taking over from the Duke of Edinburgh

Salute! Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty salutes the Duchess as she arrives outside St Clement Danes in London's Westminster

Elegant exit: Kate arrives to a warm welcome from well-wishers outside St Clement Danes church

Blue breeze: The wind appeared to be causing havoc with Kate's tresses outside the church this morning 

Badge of honour: The Dacre brooch worn by the Duchess is usally awarded to a cadet, however the youngsters gifted it to her highness

'Her husband is a flier. Her brother-in-law is a flier. Her father-in-law is a flier and her mum used to work in an airline. There is a strong aviation link there for her. She obviously has a great appreciation of the military and enthusiasm for youth.

'We have 42,000 Air Cadets now and they say it gives them a structure and something they are very proud to belong to and to serve in.

'I think it is unusual for an organisation to be able to give everything that the Air Cadets can give to these young people.

'It really does impact young lives very positively and I am just thrilled Kate wants to be a part of it.' 

Speaking ahead of her arrival Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty told Sky News: 'We're just thrilled that today is going to mark her first official engagement with the air cadets. 

In high spirits: Carol Vorderman an honorary ambassador for the Air Cadets, tweeted her support for the royal. She said: 'All of us in @aircadets are delighted today to be welcoming our Honorary Air Commandant, the Duchess of Cambridge'

Feeling emotional? Carol appeared to wipe away a tear as she looked on proudly at today's celebrations 

All smiles: Carol, whose two children both attended the Air Cadets was beaming with pride as she saluted the Duchess

McCafferty was pictured outside the church ready to greet the Duchess on her arrival. After the pair were seen enjoying friendly chatter they headed into the church for the anniversary service which included several hymns. Kate seemed in high spirits while she entered into the group singing.  

'It's going to be a fantastic day and it's really going to put our organisation and its birthday on the map, internationally so we're delighted she's going to be here.'

The Duchess was appointed as the Air Commodore-in-Chief last year - her first royal role with an official link to the military.

Philip, who turns 95 this year, announced in 2010 that he planned to gradually stand down from a number of his patronages in order to allow younger members of the royal family to step up.

All eyes on Kate: The Duchess drew in everyone's attention in her elegant blue outfit 

Look familiar: The thrifty Duchess is well known for recycling outfits and today was no exception, having first been pictured in the coat in 2014 during a visit to New Zealand where she lay a wreath in the town of Blenheim in memory of the war dead

However he still remains patron or president of 780 organisations and charities.

At the time of Kate's appointment a Buckingham Palace spokesman said it was a 'good time' for the Duchess to take on the patronage.

He said: 'As announced in 2010, the Duke of Edinburgh intends to stand down from a number of patronages with which he has been directly associated.

'The Air Cadets celebrate their 75 anniversary next year so it seems a good time to hand the mantle on. It's a great moment for the Duchess of Cambridge to get to know the organisation and take it on.'

Ouch! The Duchess was pictured wearing a plaster alongside her famous sapphire and diamond engagement ring 

All OK? The Duchess pulls an unusual expression as she chats with members of the RAF Air Cadets 

Peekaboo! The Duchess leans out of her car showcasing her enviable make up and hair to onlookers 

One has arrived: Well wishers had lined the street of the strand from early on Sunday morning hoping to get a glance of the Duchess

Hard working: Kate now represents an organisation of 42,000 air cadets aged 12-19 and 15,000 adult volunteers at more than 1,200 units across the UK and abroad

The spokesman added: 'There are no plans for the Duke to step down from a large number of organisations with which he is associated all at once. The reduction in the number of HRH's patronages will be gradual and in consultation with each organisation concerned.

'The Duchess of Cambridge has a close affiliation to the RAF following her husband's service with the Search and Rescue Force.'

Philip took up his appointment following the death of founding patron King George VI, and maintained his royal patronage for several decades, frequently visiting cadets and showing a keen interest in their activities.

Exciting future: The Duchess's visit will be the first in a series of RAF Air Cadets events planned throughout the year to celebrate the organisation's important work and history

Marching orders: The Duchess was greeted by flag bearers as she made her way into the church for the service 

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme was readily incorporated into the air cadet syllabus and for many years the ATC has been the largest awarding body of the scheme, with hundreds of cadets and junior volunteers achieving the coveted gold award every year. 

Kate now represents an organisation of 42,000 air cadets aged 12-19 and 15,000 adult volunteers at more than 1,200 units across the UK and abroad. 

The RAF Air Cadets, which is made up of the Air Training Corps (ATC) and Combined Cadet Force (CCF), promotes a practical interest in aviation among both young men and women, providing training and encouraging the development of life skills including leadership and teamwork.

The ATC was first established in 1941 during the Second World War, with the aim to train young men in aviation skills before they joined the RAF. This year will mark 75 years since its formation, as well as the formation of a number of sections of the CCF. 

Feeling nervous: Some of the young cadets looked a little worried as they anticipated the Duchess's arrival 

Princess charming: Kate was all smiles at today's event as she wore her RAF brooch proudly 

Hats off to you: As well as her coat thrifty Kate recycled her hat and was seen wearing it a year ago during a service in Bath 

What a hoot: The Duchess seemed to be unable to contain her laughter as she was greeted by Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty

Pleased to meet you: The Duchess shakes the hand of a young member of the Air Cadets at today's event

Friendly face: The Duchess smiles as she meets another young member of the RAF Air Cadets 

Welcome! The Duchess is met by a huge crowd of Air Cadets at this afternoon's reception at the Royal Courts of Justice 

Get in line: Members of the RAF Air Cadets struggled to get a good view of the Duchess as she entered the building 

The Duchess's visit will be the first in a series of RAF Air Cadets events planned throughout the year to celebrate the organisation's important work and history.

Although today is only the first engagement of the Duchess' year it looks like 2016 could be a busy one for Kate as she inherited a further title just last week. The royal is set to take on a prestigious tennis role as The Queen prepares to hand over two of her most high-profile patronages.

Kate Middleton will become patron of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, which hosts the Wimbledon championships - after Her Majesty enjoyed 64 years in the role.

As a lifelong tennis fan, the 34-year-old royal is likely to be thrilled following the move - the latest that suggests the Queen is preparing to cut down her workload ahead of her 90th birthday this year. 

According to the Sunday Times, the Duchess's patronage is likely to be officially announced during the tennis championships this summer. 

Fit of the giggles: The Duchess seemed unable to control her laughter during this afternoon's reception following the service

Over and out: Kate makes her way to the reception of the 75th anniversary following the church service

Impressive! The Duchess appears to be admiring the many medals and badges adorning this gentleman's jacket 

Entourage: The Duchess was accompanied by a large group as they make their way to the reception at the Royal Courts of Justice 

Portrait of a princess: Kate showcases the detail of her Lock and Co hat from the back as she smiles a cheeky grin 

Take my hand: Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty reaches her arm out to the Duchess as they make their way through Westminster 

Windswept and interesting: Kate's famous curls suffered a little due to today's windy weather in London  

Hello there: The royal gave a wave to onlookers who lined the streets hoping to catch a glimpse as she strode past 

A souvenir? Kate appeared to have kept her hymn sheet from the service as a memento from her visit  

Delightful Duchess: The elegant belted coat showed off her slim waist and she looked radiant as she smiled to well-wishers

Kate's Air Cadets Dacre brooch could be seen - known to be the highest award any female cadet can achieve

Getting to know you: Today Kate, pictured speaking with current cadets, will also learn more about the organisation's numerous programmes and activities as she is introduced as the new patron

Standing proud: Cadets line up in order to greet their new patron the Duchess of Cambridge 

Good to see you: The Duchess waved enthusiastically to her fans who had braved the winds to come and greet her