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ARIES TEAM
Editor: Sqn Ldr Tim Mason
Deputy Editor: Flt Lt Ade Vine
Assistant Editor: Mrs Lesley Bromwich
Aries Squadron Representatives:
HQ 1 FTS: Sgt Blackman
DCASO: WO Bell
CFS (H) Sqn: Flt Lt Jones
705 NAS: Capt Brownjohn
660 Sqn AAC: Capt Hyslop
670 Sqn AAC: Capt Riley
Sixty Sqn: Flt Lt Gray
ATCTS: Fg Off Macey
ABMTS: AS1 Greenslade
ASOTS: Cpl Arkle
Assurance: Sgt Ryall
Community: Mrs Webster
Distribution:
Mr Frank Young, Central Registry
Mrs Cheryl Foster, HIVE
E&M Team
Front Cover Design:
Mr Chris Roberts, Graphics Officer
Photography:
Mr Ian Forshaw
Mr Dave Granger
Enquiries:
Email: SHY-AriesMagazine@mod.gov.uk
Tel: (mil) 95531 7177, 7572 or 7583
Tel: (civ) 01939 250351 7177, 7572 or 7583
Date of Next Edition: Submissions for Edition 1 2025 to be received by 3 February 2025 to SHY-AriesMagazine@mod.gov.uk
This magazine contains official information and should be treated with discretion by the recipient. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice and are included in good faith. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Media Group cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it.
Editor’s Welcome
Well, here we are at Edition 4 again and another busy year at Shawbury has literally flown by.
Our latest edition, as ever, unashamedly shows off the wealth of talent at RAF Shawbury be that our enthusiastic trainees as they pass through our training courses or the inspiring and dedicated permanent (ish) military, civil servants and defence partner personnel.
The breadth of talent across this Whole Force is clearly illuminated by our Aries Awards, for Recognition of Innovation, Excellence and Service. Aries is a name that has resonated through the last 80 years of history at RAF Shawbury since a Lancaster named Aries departed in October 1944 for the first around the world flight by a British military aircraft, landing back in December 1944.
At RAF Shawbury we very much look to the future as we prepare the future helicopter crews and Air Operations personnel for front line roles, but it is important to respect and acknowledge those who went before. We supported some 28 Remembrance events around Shropshire
with the Parade and Service in Shrewsbury being the centrepiece of our collective acts of Remembrance. Earlier in October it was our privilege and honour to support the Memorial Service of John Trotman DFC a distinguished World War 2 pilot well known to us at RAF Shawbury.
We are very conscious of our local community and the wider environment, and you can read about some of our community projects and unique support of a seal survey in the Thames Estuary. There is also a look back to our Sunflower competition to brighten these shorter days.
Finally, we say goodbye to two highly accomplished leaders who have made such a positive and lasting difference during their time here. We wish both the Station Commander, Wing Commander Alan Jones, and the Commandant, Group Captain Andy Baron, all the very best for their future endeavours.
I will handover Station Commander to Wing Commander Patrick Durnin in January 25 after just over a year in the appointment. This year has seen significant change as we together transitioned to the new Command & Control (Wittering) Model whilst also getting to grips with the impact of the Air Operating Surfaces refurbishment.
Meeting these, and the plethora of never-ending challenges, is made simpler when the ‘Whole Force’ team work collectively and harmoniously. RAF Shawbury works and is a real example of the force multiplier of real teamwork and unity of purpose; it has been a privilege to work with every one of you. As we look forward to Christmas and a well-earned break, I would like to take this last opportunity to thank all the personal at RAF Shawbury for their support in contributing to ‘Team Shawbury’. I will be sad to leave but at some stage they had to prise me out of the Unit on which I have served some of my most memorable years in over 40 years of Service.
I wish you all the best and a Very Merry Christmas and prosperous 2025.
Group Captain Andy Baron BEng MA MSc RAF - Commandant 1 Flying Training School and Commandant of the Defence College of Air and Space Operations
As I handover the roles of Commandant 1 Flying Training School and Commandant of the Defence College of Air and Space Operations to Group Captain Mike Jordan, I simply want to wish him the very best of luck, and to say thank you to the Whole Force and community here at RAF Shawbury and in Shropshire.
I have spent just over two years back at RAF Shawbury now, and it remains as I remember it, probably the friendliest and most enjoyable camp I have ever had the fortune to
work on. The warmth of everyone, the enthusiasm and professionalism for what we collectively do, the family feel of our immediate community, and the true support and engagement with our wider Shropshire community, just make RAF Shawbury a brilliant place to live and work.
what you have collectively helped to achieve for UK Defence, and that is the continued delivery of exceptionally well trained people for our Front Line. The fact is that no helicopter crew, or any Air Operations professional reaches the Front Line without RAF Shawbury.
RAF Shawbury’s Special 80th Anniversary
It is a well-kept secret that on 21st October 1944, Royal Air Force Shawbury launched a top secret flight that was to make history.
The story began in the early part of World War II, when fewer bomber aircraft were hitting their targets, especially at night, due mainly to poor navigation standards. The Central Navigation School was formed at Cranage to improve navigational standards and to train navigators.
By the time the School had re-located to RAF Shawbury in 1944, bombing accuracy had improved and the School’s task had expanded to include long distant navigation techniques to remote parts of the world. When Lancaster PD 328 left RAF Shawbury on 21st October 1944, under the command
of Wing Commander McKinley DFC AFC with a crew of nine, it had the name Aries painted on its nose, after the first sign of the zodiac.
The mission was to fly around the world and return to RAF Shawbury - the first round the world flight by a British aircraft. The route took Aries via Prestwick, Reykjavik, Dorval, Washington, San Francisco, Honolulu and Samoa, before arriving in Auckland on 1 November 1944. The crew visited 24 bases in New Zealand, Australia and New Guinea before returning via Celon, Masira, Egypt and Malta reaching Shawbury 80 years ago on 14 December. Over a period of 2 months, the crew had covered over 36,000 nautical miles and flew a total of 202 hours.
Innovative and ground-breaking, the Aries project changed navigation techniques across military and civilian flying forever. It is a story which the Station is very proud to have been a part of and one of our aircraft has flown with the distinctive Aries logo painted on it ever since. You can imagine our delight, therefore, when some very
Frank Dutton and family and Judith Aldridge helping us mark our 80th Anniversary.
Aries Aircraft and Crew 1944.
The Lancaster Bomber Aries Aircraft at RAF Shawbury in October 1944.
special guests helped us mark the 80th Anniversary on 23 October.
Frank Dutton, who turned 100 in the same month, was a former RAF technician who worked on adapting the Lancaster fuel systems at RAF Shawbury to enable their epic longdistance navigation flights. Frank was accompanied by his daughter Carolyn and her partner Keith, and it was truly amazing to listen to Frank’s stories which he recounted with such detail and clarity.
We were also delighted to welcome back Judith, whose father was Squadron Leader John Aldridge, a former Aries pilot who flew the pioneering flights from RAF Shawbury. Judith very kindly donated her father’s log books and photographs to the Station in July and, on this visit, she presented us with his medals, which includes the Air Force Cross. We will treasure these amongst our Aries historical collection.
Memorial Service for John Trotman
In October we were honoured to support the Memorial Service for John ‘Johnnie’ Trotman DFC at St Mary’s Church in Shawbury village.
Johnnie was known to many at RAF Shawbury and even flew in on his 100th birthday. Johnnie joined the RAF in August 1940 with two weeks basic recruit training at Babbacombe near Torquay, then initial aircrew training in Aberystwyth. Posted to Ansty airfield near Coventry for basic flying training on the Tiger Moth Johnnie and his course mates were drafted in to assist with the clear up the day after Coventry was heavily bombed for 13 hours.
two men was the Group Captain commanding RAF Shawbury who curtailed Johnnie’s time as an instructor much to Johnnie’s pleasure!
Training on the Tiger Moth was followed by multi-engine training on the Airspeed Oxford from where Johnnie graduated above-average resulting in a posting to No 2 Central Flying School at RAFC Cranwell to become a flying instructor.
Keen to get onto operations, training new pilots didn’t really suit Johnnie, he sealed his fate while conducting a low-flying demonstration near Wheaton Aston between Newport and Cannock. He spotted and buzzed two men stood on a builder’s caravan on the site of an airfield under construction. The two men dived off the caravan into the mud as Johnnie screamed over the caravan with feet to spare. It turned out that one of the
No 23 Operational Training Unit gave Johnnie his first taste of the Vickers Wellington bomber on which he would conduct 30 operational missions. In fact, only two thirds through the course he and his crew were selected to take part in the first two 1,000 bomber raids on Cologne and Essen. After that they were deemed to be operational and graduated from the OTU. Johnnie’s favourite aircraft was the Mosquito which he flew as part of the Pathfinder Force from October 1944, by which time he had been commissioned. He frequently spoke about the speed, power and manoeuvrability of the aircraft.
Including taking part in the last two missions carried out by Bomber Command in the Second World War, Johnnie completed 40 operational missions in the Mosquito being awarded a DFC and Bar.
Johnnie passed away in August just weeks before his 103rd birthday after a long and full life.
Judith presenting her father’s medals to the Station, Squadron Leader John Aldridge former Aries pilot.
Wing Commander McKinley DFC AFC 1944.
Blue skies and fair winds Johnnie.
John ‘Johnnie’ Trotman.
Johnnie after flying into RAF Shawbury aged 100.
Annual Reception
The Annual Reception was held on 26 September, this is an important opportunity to thank local dignitaries and organisations for their support of RAF Shawbury and our personnel, whilst strengthening our engagement across the wider community.
During the evening guests mingled with a range of personnel and were entertained with music from an Ensemble of the Mercian Band. Towards the end of the event the Station Commander gave a speech thanking our guests for their enduring support of RAF Shawbury. With a nod to the notable history of Shawbury he mentioned the 80th Anniversary of the Aries around the world flight which the Station has marked this year. He acknowledged that we would not
be able to provide world class training to helicopter aircrew and Air Operations personnel without the support that we receive, and went on to describe how we interact and liaise with Town Councils, Parish Councils, youth organisations and schools with STEM outreach, veteran outreach, a high visibility campaign for horse riders and significant charity work.
Despite the slightly damp weather the guests gathered outside the Mess at the end of the evening for a Sunset Ceremony with the RAF Cosford Pipes & Drums and a flypast by a No. 1 FTS helicopter.
The Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire said after the event, “It was good to see the variety of engagement reflecting RAF Shawbury’s involvement in the community and very encouraging to see women in high-ranking roles.”
The High Sheriff said, “I am pleased to be back at and see what RAF Shawbury has been doing in the local community and what good relationships they have achieved.”
The Mayor of Shrewsbury commented, “ These occasions are so important for organisations to get to know each other, understand each other and pursue mutual benefits and cooperation.”.
The MP for North Shropshire with the Mayor of Market Drayton and the Head Teacher of St Mary’s School in Shawbury.
The Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire with fellow guests, the Station Padre and Head of Flying Training.
Guests and RAF Shawbury personnel gather in the Officers’ Mess.
The Station Commander salutes at the Sunset Ceremony.
Ready for the Sunset Ceremony.
Remembrance
Remembrance is a poignant time of the year for many people, especially those associated with the Armed Forces past and present.
Personnel from RAF Shawbury joined the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in Shrewsbury on the Friday before Remembrance Sunday, where they were visited by the Station Commander and Station Warrant Officer.
On Remembrance Sunday personnel supported events across 28 locations in Shropshire. The largest contingent supported the Remembrance Parade and Service in Shrewsbury, where two Flights and the Sixty Squadron Standard Party participated, marching through the Town and into the Quarry Park for the Service and wreath laying with civic dignitaries and veterans.
We will remember them.
The Station Commander and Station Warrant Officer visit personnel. collecting for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Above: The Last Post is played at the Service.
Left: Senior Officers salute after laying their wreaths.
Personnel march through Shrewsbury.
A moment of reflection during the Service.
ARIES Awards
In October we held our Awards for Recognition of Innovation, Excellence and Service (ARIES) in the Officers’ Mess to celebrate the achievements of our Whole Force personnel at RAF Shawbury. The ARIES Awards formally recognised the military personnel, Civil Servants and defence partners who had made a significant contribution to the base and the local community during the last year.
This year also marked the 80th Anniversary of the Aries around the world flight echoing the innovation, excellence and service of the air and ground crews of the Empire Air Navigation School who pushed the boundaries of longrange air navigation. Lancaster PD 328 named ARIES undertook the first RAF circumnavigation of the world, under the command of Wing Commander McKinley. The trip was successful, and ARIES returned after 53 days having flown over 200 hours, setting new world records. Aries was the first British military aircraft to fly around the world and covered almost 36,000 nautical miles on this historic flight.
The Station Commander welcomed two special guests, Air ViceMarshal Jason Appleton, Air Officer Commanding 2 Group and Mrs Debbie Hewitt MBE, FIFA Vice President and Chair of the Football Association, to present awards:
Sporting Achievement Award: Flying Officer Carr
Community Spirit Award RAF Shawbury STEM Committee
Most Outstanding Contribution to RAF Shawbury (Civilian) Mr Lyttle
Most Outstanding Contribution to RAF Shawbury (Military) Warrant Officer 2 Bahr
Unsung Hero Award
Flight Sergeant Flanders
Station Commander’s Best Cadet28 Sqn, RAF Shawbury Cadet Corporal Reed
Most Outstanding Individual Award
Mr Ridge
Most Outstanding Team Award Air traffic Control Training Squadron
The Lifetime Achievement Award Squadron Leader Leach and Mr Keogh
Wing Commander McKinley Award – Station Commander’s choice from all the ARIES nominees.
Mrs Moore
Silver Award – 25 years collective service associated with RAF Shawbury.
Wg Cdr Jones
Sqn Ldr Smailes
Mrs Broadhurst
Mr Jones
Mr Broxton
Mrs M Henderson
Mr Morris
Mrs A Henderson
Community Spirit Award.
Most Outstanding Team.
Most Outstanding Contribution (Civilian). Most Outstanding Contribution (Military). Unsung Hero.
Station Commander’s Best Cadet.
Most Outstanding Individual.
Lifetime Achievement Award.
Lifetime Achievement Award.
Wing Commander McKinley Award. Silver Award
Silver Award Silver Award
Silver Award
Silver Award Silver Award Silver Award
No1 Flying Training School Supports National Conservation
Aircrew from No 1 Flying Training School (FTS) based at RAF Shawbury were delighted to respond to a plea for help from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) in May, whilst taking a unique opportunity to develop their flying skills.
The international conservation charity ZSL have conducted an annual grey and harbour seal count in the Greater Thames Estuary since 2013. This year’s partnership with No 1 FTS meant that a much more accurate count for this important national scientific study could be conducted by combining land and sea assets. A Juno aircraft and aircrew from No 1 FTS conducted the survey over several days in August, helping to reveal that 600 harbour and 3,000 grey seals call the Thames
Estuary home and highlighting the importance of the iconic river as a natural habitat.
Group Captain Andy Baron, Commandant of No 1 FTS at RAF Shawbury said: “The RAF and MOD are proud to have been able to contribute to a conservation project of such significant scientific importance. Supporting the ZSL project has provided a unique opportunity for military helicopter aircrew to develop core and niche skills which will further benefit Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force staff and students who train at the world-leading No 1 Flying Training School.”
The advantage of the airborne view.
Pictured left: No 1 Flying Training School’s Major Cooper and Captain Harrop with ZSL scientist staff prior to take off.
Basking seals on the banks of the Thames Estuary.
Hannah McCormick, ZSL’s lead scientist, airborne over the Thames Estuary.
Posing for the camera?
Recent Graduation
No. 1 Flying Training School held a Graduation for helicopter pilots and rearcrew on 18 October.
The Reviewing Officer was Air Officer Commanding Number 2 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Jason Appleton MA RAF.
The Bryan Beggs Trophy (Most Improved) winner Sergeant Smith with Air Vice-Marshal Appleton.
Rearcrew graduates with the Reviewing Officer.
Graduating pilots with the Reviewing Officer.
German Graduates with Colonel Gottschalk.
The John McLuckie Trophy winner Sgt Neil with Air Vice-Marshal Appleton.
The Creighton Trophy winner Leading Hand Cochran with Air Vice-Marshal Appleton.
The Newmark Helicopter Flying Trophy winner Lt Deacy with Air Vice-Marshal Appleton.
The Bob Bowles Trophy (Best Student) Trophy winner OLt Miller with Air Vice-Marshal Appleton.
The Peter Adams Trophy (Best Tactics) Trophy winner Lieutenant Kadlubowski with Air ViceMarshal Appleton.
DCASO Dits
AEROSPACE BATTLE MANAGEMENT TRAINING SQUADRON (ABMTS)
ABMTS have been very busy the last few months with many arrivals, departures, courses and exercises.
On 7 October Air Specialist Class 1’s (AS1’s) Greenslade and Gisborn organised an overseas Force Development trip to Belgium covering a variety of battlefield sites. This trip was open to all Station personnel with nine RAF Shawbury personnel along with Flt Lt Hillier, Cpl Parkin and AS1 Mcgeachy from DCASO attending the eye-opening event.
ABMTS staff took the opportunities available to attend a variety of development courses. AS1 Collings attended a coaching and mentorship course and was nominated to participate in the RAF Lead Programme remotely; this will increase his mentorship skills and ability to support the development of his peers. Cpl Lally obtained his UEFA Coaching C qualification which is put to good use coaching and managing the RAF Shawbury football team, and Flt Lt Mcconville successfully completed the Intelligence Air Weapons Course; a massive addition to the array of skills he already possesses which will be a great future training asset.
ABMTS staff also participated in a variety of sports such as Canoeing, Wakeboarding, Fishing and Football. Cpl Lally and AS1 McGeachy participated in the Trade football competition with service personnel from all over the country competing at a high level. AS1 Hilton-Jones attended a fishing event, competing with the RAF against the
Army and Navy further developing his skills. Our resident Aries Sports Achievement Award winner Fg Off Carr represented the RAF and participating in the UK Armed Forces Hockey world cup in South Africa. Finally, the DCASO Adventurous Training week was organised with Sgt Bland, AS1 Morris and AS1 Hilton-Jones from ABMTS taking advantage of the canoeing activity which encouraged team bonding and the ability to step out of their comfort zones.
Mission Support Flight have had a recent promotion; AS1 Bradshaw promoted to Cpl and moved into the new MSF Corporal position. This will boost the section with Cpl Bradshaw being a very experienced sim flight member. CTF welcomed Flt Lt Thompson-Watts back from his 6-month deployment in Kingpin and the new arrival of FS Armitage who transferred over from ATCTS and is currently on course learning all the new skills
ABMTS in Belgium.
required for his new role.
Sadly, Squadron Leader Smith will be departing from his Officer Commanding ABMTS role and moving on to his next posting after his imminent deployment. He will be missed by the whole of ABMTS and we all wish him the best of luck for his future.
AIR AND SPACE OPERATIONS TRAINING SQUADRON (ASOTS)
Winter is coming. Whilst it is still firmly short sleeves weather at time of writing at the beginning of November, the mornings are becoming darker and colder but thankfully we have the nourishment of teaching over at ASOTS to keep us warm.
Halloween has been and gone, with Cpl Chapman having decorated his house accordingly as is his annual tradition.
Our only arrival since the last edition is Cpl Harrison, who brings with him a wealth of experience in teaching, coaching, and mentoring. He will be a great asset to ASOTS, he is a very likeable individual and has a very approachable manner for both trainees and other trainers. We hope that he will enjoy his time here at RAF Shawbury.
Our very own and infamous Sgt Ford is finally departing ASOTS and RAF Shawbury to his new assignment on
promotion to MOD Shrivenham. A Shawbury legend in his own right, he will be sorely missed not only at ASOTS but around the whole station; no doubt he will soon settle into his new role and be imparting his random facts and knowledge about stars and the universe to his new colleagues. Cpl Chapman will also be leaving on promotion in the new year to RAF Halton, ready to shape the minds of the next generation of recruits and probably introducing cricket as their mandatory PT.
ABMTS pay their respects to those who went before.
by The DCASO Diarists
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINING SCHOOL (ATCTS)
With one more JATCC remaining before commencing the shiny new course in January 25, the ATCTS JATCC implementation Team is on winddown having had an exceptionally busy and productive year. With this in mind, multiple personnel within the Sqn have embarked upon an extensive upskilling program to take with them new skills into the new course. ATCTS personnel have completed the Phase 1 Instructional Training Course across
at RAF College Cranwell which will stand them in good stead. Others have completed various Human Performance courses to aid with the newly designed training methods.
Although extremely busy spinning plates with training delivery and implementation tasks, ATCTS members did manage to find some free time within their busy schedules to complete some well-earned FD down in Wales.
Virtual Flag 25
In October, RAF Shawbury Mission Support Flight supported Coalition Virtual Flag 25 (VF-25) alongside 54 Squadron (RAF Waddington) and 20 Squadron (RAF Boulmer). VF-25 held at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque at the Distributed Mission Operations Centre, is a premier multinational training exercise designed to enhance joint and coalition operational readiness. The exercise
integrated participants from the UK, US, Australia, Canada, and other allied nations, simulating large-scale combat operations across multiple domains: air, space, cyber, land, and maritime.
Corporal Parkin (RAF Shawbury) and Air Specialist 1 Blackburn (RAF Boulmer) were commended by Flight Sergeant Eastwood for their excellent work, during the exercise, in the highpressure environment.
Twenty sqn members took part in a variety of fun activities including mountain biking, kayaking, and hiking. A vitally important part of service life to refresh the batteries.
And finally, ATCTS has sadly seen too many well-respected and loved trainers leaving, going onto postings new or civilian life. Wherever they end up, we will miss them, and we wish them well in their endeavours.
During downtime personnel visited the Nuclear Science & History Museum which showcased displays from the Manhattan Project, Cold War and military history with artifacts that included aircraft, missiles and other military equipment reflecting the role of nuclear weapons in global geopolitics.
Corporal Parkin
RAF and US personnel.
Manhattan Project artifact at the Nuclear Science & History Museum.
DCASO NEWS
Recent Graduations
The Defence College of Air and Space Operations has recently graduated several courses.
FOTC5
Flight Operations Training Course 5 graduated on 19 September. The Reviewing Officer was Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea CBE DL FCA. The Morley Trophy was won by Lieutenant McKinney. The Mulvihill Trophy was won by Pilot Officer Smith.
17
Air and Space Operations Specialist Course 17 has recently graduated on 19 September. The Reviewing Officer was Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea CBE DL
The Mulvihill Trophy winner Pilot Officer Smith presented with the trophy by Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea
FOTC5 with Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea
The Morley Trophy winner Lieutenant McKinney presented with the trophy by Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea
FCA.
The Salesian Trophy winner presented with the trophy by Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea
ASOSC 17 with Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea
The Daren Hucknall Trophy winner presented with the trophy by Honorary Group Captain Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea
ASOSC 18
Air and Space Operations Specialist Course 18 has recently graduated on 1 November. The Reviewing Officer was Chaplain-in-Chief and Archdeacon for the Royal Air Force The Venerable Dr (Air Vice-Marshal) Giles Legood MBE KHC RAF
The Surveillance Foundation Course (SFC) 24-3 has recently graduated on 1 November. The Reviewing Officer was OC DCASO – Wg Cdr Paxman.
The Weapons Foundation Course (WFC) has recently graduated on 1 November. The Reviewing Officer was Commandant DCASO Group Captain Baron.
ASOSC 18 with The Venerable Dr (Air Vice-Marshal) Giles Legood
SFC 24-3
SFC 24-3 with OC DCASO Wing Commander Paxman
WFC 24-2
WFC 24-2 with Commandant DCASO Group Captain Baron and OC DCASO Wing Commander Paxman
The Salesian Trophy winner presented with the trophy by The Venerable Dr (Air Vice-Marshal) Giles Legood
FORCE DEVELOPMENT NEWS
Exercise LEOPARDS LEAP
Aircrew Personal Development and Leadership Training
On Monday 17 June, led by Flight Lieutenant Edwards, No 1 Flying Training School’s Course 117-013 convened at RAF St Mawgan, to undertake Aircrew Personal Development and Leadership Training, Exercise LEOPARDS LEAP. The intent was to form and develop the bedrock of team spirit and camaraderie amongst the thirteen-strong course, comprising of NCOs and Officers of Army and Royal Navy pedigree.
Day 1: The first afternoon’s activities were preceded by a welcome brief from Squadron Leader Thompson where the offer to get involved in future Adventurous Training (AT) opportunities that RAF St Mawgan had to offer was generously extended. Following the welcome brief, and fortunately for the more seasick amongst us, Day 1 continued with some land-based icebreaking exercises and team building challenges prior to making our way into Newquay for the last supper shore-side.
Day 2: An early morning drive to Falmouth saw the group split equally between the 41 and 38 foot sailing yachts, Mojo and Orca Challenge. Time was of the essence and the two crews now led by Phil and Martin of Bowman Yacht Charters departed Falmouth before swiftly getting to grips with the basics of tacking and gybing in the bay. After which both crews were deemed suitably qualified and sailed eastwards. Following the first morning under sail, a brief lunch stop afforded the opportunity to anchor and go for a swim in the deceivingly cold Cornish waters of Gerran’s Bay, prior to making best speed for those evenings mooring at Fowey. Within the first day, all course members had taken the helm of their respective vessel and developed their
skills, some of whom had never set foot on a sailing yacht until a few hours previously. Upon arrival in the Cornish coastal town of Fowey, Orca Challenge moored outside Mojo who had arrived first (a theme quick to develop) and following dinner onboard, the course made their way into the town.
Day 3: A reasonably civilised 8am start saw both crews prepare their yachts for the coming day sail, including a navigation brief and passage plan. The planning phase ensured timings would allow for both yachts, notably the more sedately paced Orca Challenge, to reach the far-flung shores of Devon and the River Yealm at high tide that evening. This allowed safe passage by avoiding the substantial sand bar kindly situated across the mouth of destination river. With the wind nowhere really to be seen, the affectionately dubbed ‘iron spinnaker’ motor provided a welcomed 5 knots speed over ground to Cawsand to drop anchor, enjoy a quick lunch and for some a dinghy ride to the beach for ice cream and pasties. Lunch stop complete and crews fed, both yachts made their way up the River Yealm to that evening’s mooring, albeit a pontoon a few hundred metres from land. Despite logistical issues involving 13 sailors, two dinghys, just one engine with limited fuel, changing tides and lots of mud, 117-013 made their way to (and just about back from) nearby Noss Mayo for the evening.
to anchor in a bay and go for a swim over lunch. At the mouth of the River Fal and with the yachts now mercifully back in the hands of Phil and Martin, both vessels and all of 117-013 made a successful return to the berth in Falmouth in one piece. Acutely aware of England’s Euro 2024 campaign continuing that evening, an efficient post-course discussion, cleaning and de-storing of the boats took place before returning to RAF St Mawgan to watch an uninspiring 1-1 draw to Denmark.
The week’s APDLT allowed everyone varying from sailing novices to Coastal Day-Skippers to employ and expand planning, leadership and teamwork skills whilst developing as a course both personally and professionally. Course 117-013 would like to extend their thanks to Flight Lieutenant Edwards and all at Bowman Yacht Charters for their efforts towards providing a rewarding week enjoyed by all.
Day 4: With a 45 mile return journey on the cards and the wind once again looking unfavourable, both crews departed Yealm at the crack of dawn, again successfully navigating the everthreatening sand bar. Once in open water, appropriate tracks were set, and the crews settled in for the long return leg to Falmouth. Passage of time was encouraged by games such as I-Spy and ‘Contact’, fashioning a homemade fishing line from frayed string, safety pins and left over tikka chicken and a brief visit from a pod of dolphins. As was by now customary, despite the limited wind and significant length of the journey, time was still found
Taking control.
Trainees aboard the Sailing Yacht.
ABMTS Foundation Course Force Development Week
As a tired and over worked Course Commander for SFC 24-3. It was in the best interest of the trainees and my sanity to give them a break from my monotonous voice, allowing them the opportunity to see other aspects of the Profession, demonstrating that there will be more to life as an Identification Officer than just working in the Control and Reporting Centre.
To that end, SFC 24-3 set off for a few days down south starting with a day out at the Historical Dockyard in Portsmouth, getting the opportunity to see both the Elizabeth Class and T45 destroyers up close as well as an appreciation of how the senior service has evolved.
Bringing the role a little closer to home, the trainees spent the day at Swanwick, getting briefed on various aspects including the Airspace Management, Radar Analysis, and Distress & Diversion. Not only did this expose the trainees to what an Ops Room looks like, it gave them the ‘big picture’ of what they are working towards here at DCASO.
With an understanding of what their peacetime day-day role is, it was time to visit a ‘green’, deployment unit. Spending the day at Thorney Island, the course was hosted by 49 Battery where they got an understanding of how 7 Air Defence Group work receiving briefs from both Royal Artillery Regiments (12Regt and 16Regt).
As a potential future posting for the trainees, understanding how the LEAPP (Land Environment Air Picture Provision) Command and Control equipment works along with understanding how quickly their Identification decision leads to
a kinetic effect within a Base Defence Zone or Missile Engagement Zone shows that there is more to the role than the basic skills taught on the Surveillance Foundation Cse. Being able to see a raw RADAR feed on the GiraffeActive Magnetic Bearing (G-AMB) capability, understanding that an overprocessed picture is not in the best interest of being able to detect and engage smaller targets (drones, rockets and mortars); making a quick and accurate threat assessment is essential.
Trainees finished the week by visiting the RAF Cosford Museum,
to contextualise the air and space operations development from past to present and into the future. The importance of providing early warning and an accurate threat assessment of aircraft cannot be understated. The Battle of Britain was won through an early warning system that outperformed its adversary’s; the UK’s commitment to this has continued to the present day. A week well spent with the trainees understanding how the surveillance systems of today have the pioneers of the past to thank.
WO Cookson
LEAPP Control Node
Base Defence
Master Air Pilot Awards
Members of the Central Flying School (Helicopters) Squadron have been recognised by the Honourable Company of Air Pilots with the award of Master Air Pilot Certificates.
Squadron Leader Brown, Lieutenant Commander Oakes and Major Wilson were presented with their certificates at a Banquet in London’s Guildhall, along with a previous recipient, Captain Price. The Honourable Air Company of Air Pilots state that, “These certificates are awarded to aviators who have, over a number of years, displayed the qualities of pilotage, air navigation, airmanship and character which have brought honour and respect to the profession. The awards are made by the Court of the Company on the advice of the Trophies and Awards Committee. The award should be seen as a recognition of long service and consistently high standards, and as the title suggests, the recipient will be a proven Master of their craft.”
A significant achievement for Central Flying School (Helicopters) Squadron.
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Lieutenant Commander Oakes, Major Wilson, Squadron Leader Brown and Captain Price at the Guildhall
Introducing ESS at RAF Shawbury
ESS is a specialized division of Compass Group UK & Ireland, operating within the Defence, Energy, Government, Infrastructure, and Marine & Aerospace sectors. Our clients play a vital role in maintaining the nation’s operations, and we have been supporting them in challenging environments around the clock for over 80 years. We offer an extensive range of soft facilities management (FM) services, including catering, retail, leisure, cleaning, waste management, reception, administration, stores management, grounds maintenance, laundry, and tailoring.
At RAF Shawbury we have 96 team members on site covering Catering, Bars, Retail, Accommodation, Cleaning and Waste Management. Security is integral to all our operations, underpinning our processes, systems, and training. We are deeply committed to making a positive societal impact and are proud to contribute to Compass Group UK & Ireland’s goals of achieving Climate Net Zero and supporting one million individuals, both within and outside the organization, by 2030.
Our team is multi-skilled, enhancing flexibility and efficiency. Across our company we serve tens of thousands of individuals in demanding roles every day, often in challenging conditions. Over the years, we have
gained valuable insights into the needs of our clients and customers. We recognize that great-tasting food is essential; hence, our chefs dedicate significant time and effort to crafting delicious dishes. Our meals are freshly prepared each day using high-quality ingredients. At Shawbury we prepare and serve food for the Officers’ and Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Messes, the Junior Ranks Restaurant, Aircrew Feeder and our retail cafe.
Furthermore, we understand the importance of the environments we create. Our restaurants and messes are designed as welcoming spaces where customers can relax and socialize, with our dedicated staff always available to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Healthy options.
Inviting starters ready to serve.
Tasty deserts at a Mess function.
The Sky is the Limit with RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC)
Funding provided by the RAF Central Fund sponsored Mechanics Endowment Fund Gliding Bursary Courses gets students into the air with RSGC. Students must be attending a Phase 1 or Phase 2 training course at RAF Cosford or RAF Shawbury and may
be of any rank. Included in their course are 9 training flights, an aerobatics flight that allows students to experience the g-forces on the body and airframe, and 60 minutes of flying training in a motor glider. Students can then take their flying to solo level through the RAF Gliding and Soaring
Association (RAFGSA) funded Go-Solo scheme.
So, if you joined the RAF to fly but the opportunity just didn’t present itself well, the sky really is the limit to 10,000ft over Shawbury, the ceiling without oxygen. From launch to landing,
PO North departs on a motor glider sortie to consolidate training with instructor Geoff Matthews
At the bottom of the loop on an aerobatics sortie over the airfield
students can challenge themselves in the air, following in the footsteps of other students who have taken advantage of this fantastic opportunity to learn fly with RSGC at the weekend.
Further details and an application form are on the club website at: https://www.rafshawburygc.co.uk/mef-bursary and the club also welcome the whole service community with membership open to Service Personnel and their families, MOD Civilians and Defence partners. Contact Squadron Leader Franki Kuwan Franklin.Kuwan100@mod.gov.uk or Ian Gallacher ian.gallacher375@mod.gov.uk both of whom will be delighted to answer your questions. Also available on ModNET Skype or Teams
With PO Mcnab on aero-tow in an ASK 21 glider and heading for the release point at 2,000ft
Running through pre-flight checks on the launch point with PO Dunwell
In the circuit at RAF Shawbury with PO Smith
Motor Glider cockpit familiarisation for two Air Cadets with RSGC instructor Sqn Ldr Colin Haynes
Shawbury United Football Club Community Project
Shawbury United Football Club are in the process of creating a major new club facility.
With key task deadlines looming for the end of May, Warrant Officer Fearon and Flight Sergeant Clasper decided to create a work party to try and help the club achieve their mission. On 16 May, trainees from Joint Air Traffic Control Course 464 and 465 joined instructors from the Defence College of Air and Space Operations to carry out painting, waterproofing the roof, creating planters, laying path and road foundation work, and copious amounts of soil and rubble redistribution.
The Chairman, Dave Richards, was extremely grateful for the work that was conducted and remarked how impressed he was not only by the standard of work, but also the determination, speed, and application on display. We wish SUFC the best of luck with the rest of the project and in providing what will be a fantastic community asset.
Joint Air Traffic Control Course trainees building planters.
The staff and trainee team from the Defence College of Air and Space Operations.
Wildflower Garden
The Wildflower Meadow Garden project, which was generously funded via The NAAFI Fund is now complete.
Young People at the Youth Club, together with serving families were initially consulted about the use of the space surrounding the Youth Activity Centre, and a Wildflower Garden was immediately suggested.
Two forest den areas have also been provided, with seating allowing storytelling and nature watching.
Activities such as den building, feeding birds and other mammals, growing plants and vegetables will also help young children and families learn and develop along with the meadow. The areas have been designed to provide a peaceful, relaxing, and natural facility for the Whole Force and their families to relax and enjoy in the fresh air. Research has proven that open green spaces help people connect with nature, alleviate stress, and support positive mental health through relaxation and rest. The meadow and surrounding area will also encourage social and educational opportunities for the young people attending the Youth Club.
Work began at the end of March 2024, utilising students from the Defence College of Air and Space Operations, allowing them to be involved in a
Corbet Woods
In October, three Foundation Surveillance Course trainees: Pilot Officer Lees, Sergeant Daly and Sergeant McGowen supported an ongoing community project at Corbet Woods.
community project. Several other courses have since participated in helping make the area an enjoyable place to visit. The project was completed at the end of August and will now be maintained by the Youth Club.
We hope to see the wildflowers bloom into life next Spring!
Mrs Angie Webster Community Support Co-ordinator
Corbet Woods, a local SSSI (Site of Significant Scientific Importance), designated as such due to the large amount of fossilised remains of a large lizard like reptile that have been discovered on site and by the neighbouring sandstone quarry. These fossils were first discovered in the Victorian era and have been influential on the understanding of evolution at the time.
The trainees worked to clear one of the main footpaths, tearing out
brambles and trimming down holly bushes so this site can continue to be enjoyed by all throughout the approaching winter season.
As part of the local community it is important for RAF Shawbury to give back to the communities that surround us and show that we are there to help and protect not just overseas but at home as well. These small projects may seem inconsequential in the bigger picture but are integral to the core values of our armed forces that we look to instil in our trainees.
The team.
The team hard at work.
It has been a busy last few months for our choir.
In October, four members of Shawbury choir joined with many other MWC members from around the UK and performed a very moving selection of songs at the beautiful Stowe Gardens in Buckinghamshire to a local VIP audience.
‘For Your Tomorrow – the People’s Tribute’ was created by community artist, Dan Barton with the number of figures in the display representing the number of fatalities under British command on 6 June 1944. ‘The Standing Giants’ display moves back to France on 11/11/24. https://www.standingwithgiants.co.uk
Also in October members of the choir attended the Health & Well Being event in Wem Town Hall. An exciting and well attended event, we hope to get involved again next year.
November saw the release of our new single ‘November Sunday’. Written to celebrate His Majesty The King’s birthday, the song captures the hope and joy brought to post-war Britain on 14th November 1948 with the birth
of the future King to his mother, then Princess Elizabeth.
Music and lyrics by John McLaren, brings together 100 voices from across the Military Wives Choirs, accompanied by The Band of the Household Cavalry, capturing a moment in history filled with hope and joy.
Our Shawbury Soprano, Hannah, said “In the summer I was lucky enough to be chosen to represent Shawbury MWC in the recording. It was a wonderful experience getting to sing with everyone & be a part of something so special.”
It’s a special process involving lots of amazing people, including 100 choir
‘For Your Tomorrow –the People’s Tribute.
members from as far as the Falkland Islands, a military Band, a composer, arrangers, conductors, a producer, a film director and a team of engineers. We’re so proud of this heartfelt tribute to the Armed Forces’ bond with the Royal Family
To find out more about the project, visit www.novembersunday.co.uk
So from all of the above, interspersed with some pottery making, quizzes, social gatherings, a choir members wedding, plus lovely new members recently joined, we shall be looking forward to a rest over Christmas.
The choir starts back again in January so please come along and see what we do.
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We wish you all a very merry Christmas.
Miitary Wives Choir at the Stowe Gardens event.
SSAFA Sunflower Competition
Earlier this year the RAF Shawbury SSAFA Committee delivered the sunflower seeds ready for the 2024 competition.
This year the committee also tried to grow some sunflowers with our green-fingered Chair being the winner. Her prize was the knowledge that hers grew beautifully. The competition on camp was on its way and we had some lovely entries this year including entries from the newly planted Strawberry Fields allotment plots.
The winners for 2024 were:
1st Place - Winning a £20 garden centre gift voucher and a bird feeder, went to the Youth Centre – their sunflowers grew to a height of 1.85m WOW!
2nd Place - Winning a £10 garden centre gift voucher and bird feeder, went to Emer and her family – showing how well plants can grow in the allotment plots.
3rd Place - Winning a bird feeder and a pair of gardening gloves, went to Sue P– her sunflower was a bright yellow colour.
Well done to all those who managed to grow sunflowers this year – we hope you enjoyed them, and we would like to send special congratulations to the winners - we hope you liked your prizes.
Bobsleigh Inspiration
Corporal John Stanbridge, an avionics instructor from Royal Air Force Cosford, recently delivered a presentation to our Whole Force personnel about his inspirational journey to become a world championship GB Bobsleigh pilot.
John experienced a major crash in 2022 that broke his neck; however, his fortitude and resilience to overcome this life-threatening injury, meant that he was back on the ice in a matter of months. Despite this setback, through his determination and ability to perform under pressure, John
and his team competed at the World Championships earlier this year and placed fifth overall in the European Cup circuit. Top-level training and equipment individually produce marginal gains but together make a big difference; achieving Olympic glory does not come cheap and one of John’s biggest challenges now is lack of funding. He relies on donations and sponsorship and is currently trying to raise £40,000 so that his team can purchase an Olympic sled.
If you wish to support John and the team in their endeavours to become 2026 Olympic champions, you can follow them on social media and donate via the Just Giving link below:
We wish John and the team the very best of luck during this Winter season.
The RAF Rugby Union ‘Vultures’ Masters team played a rugby match against the mental health charity Tough Enough To Care ‘Flaming Unicorns’ team at RAF Shawbury in November.
The match served to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedom and protected our way of life. It also supported the Flaming Unicorns who are the official rugby team of Tough Enough To Care, one of RAF Shawbury’s chosen charities for 2024. The Flaming Unicorns are dedicated to breaking the silence surrounding mental health and suicide within sports clubs and creating supportive environments where open
discussions about mental well-being can thrive.
Perfect playing conditions were the setting for the Vultures to play their first game of the season. Despite a strong fight back by the Flaming Unicorns in the second half, the Vultures ran out eventual winners with 35 points to 10.
An all-ranks event held after the match raised over £1000 for the charity. All in all a good day.
