Brize issue 4 2024 by Lance Media Group

Brize Meadow Lodge Luxury Care Home

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Person-Centred Care

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Couples Welcome

Right from the beginning the level of care given to both my grandad and to us as a family, made a difficult decision a lot easier. The home is immaculate, the staff are fantastic. My grandad has settled in so well and we are very well looked after too when we visit. The food is amazing, activities are plentiful. Laundry is done for them, doctors will visit, hairdresser on site, grounds are well maintained. I cannot thank the amazing team enough for what they do.

Granddaughter of resident, Brize Meadow Lodge Carehome.co.uk review

Feeling a sense of community and belonging is so important at any stage of life, and at Brize Meadow Lodge care home residents are supported to find long-lasting, genuine companionship in warm and welcoming surroundings.

With help from a trusted team of highly trained carers, residents are encouraged to meet new people and build friendships through varied and exciting activities.

From arts and crafts, to gentle exercise classes, to regular community coffee mornings, residents at Brize Meadow Lodge are inspired to spark stimulating conversations with others, boosting their confidence and independence, and forming sincere connections.

At mealtimes, Brize Meadow Lodge’s luxurious lounge and dining areas provide relaxing spaces where residents can indulge in a freshly prepared menu with their friends and loved ones, or simply sit and catch up over coffee. On the last Friday of each month from 12:15, people in Brize Norton and the surrounding areas are invited to the home’s ‘Fish and Chips Friday’ where they can bond over delicious, freshly cooked fish and chips with the residents.

Frances Payne, the Home Manager at Brize Meadow Lodge, said, ‘It’s our priority to provide kind, resident-led care, and a crucial part of that is ensuring everyone feels part of the Brize Meadow Lodge family through friendships shared with other residents, our caring team, and our wonderful community.

‘There is always a friendly face to offer emotional support, to share laughter with, to celebrate milestones and achievements with, and to experience new things with. We pride ourselves on the joyful, welcoming home we’ve built at Brize Meadow Lodge.’

Brize Meadow Lodge is offering four weeks of respite care for the price of three, so you can get a taste of life in the home at a reduced cost. Brize Meadow Lodge’s summer offer is available from June to August. Please note full payment for three weeks care must be paid before the period of respite.

For more information about Brize Meadow Lodge, please call 01993 323 313, email brizemeadow.lodge@idealcarehomes.co.uk or visit www. idealcarehomes.co.uk.

Brize Meadow Lodge, operated by Ideal Carehomes, offers 24-hour, person-centred residential and dementia care. With 66 ensuite bedrooms, attractive décor and landscaped gardens, Brize Meadow Lodge is welcoming new residents for short- and long-term placements with a unique all-inclusive fee to give peace of mind to residents and their families.

Ideal Carehomes provides 24-hour residential and dementia care in state-of-the-art homes across the country. They have recently been named a Top 20 Care Home Group by carehome.co.uk for the fifth year running.

UK Boarding School Exhibition British Forces

EDITORIAL TEAM

Editor Ms Anita Jack

Editorial Team

Mrs Stacey Evans Mrs Bev Masters

Editorial Contact 51⁰ North Magazine

RAF Brize Norton Carterton, Oxfordshire OX18 3LX

Email: bzn-51degreesnorth@mod.gov.uk

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ADVENTURE & SPORT

E DITOR’S FOREWORD

Hello everyone and welcome to the latest edition of 51 Degrees North, the magazine of RAF Brize Norton.

It’s all change here at the Station as we bade farewell to Station Commander Group Captain Claire O’Grady and Commander Air Wing, Group Captain Gareth Burdett. With both departures, we welcomed our new Station Commander, Group Captain Louise Henton and new Commander Air Wing Group, Captain Andrew McIntyre. I look forward to introducing both over the coming months.

Once again you will find this edition packed with articles; bringing the activities of RAF Brize Norton to you, I do hope you enjoy.

The recent Royal International Air Tattoo saw a flurry of activities with some different aircraft visiting the Station over the 3-day period, I do hope you managed to catch a glimpse.

The Station most certainly feels quieter at this time of the year as the force takes some much needed holiday time to spend with family and friends, however,

the Station remains busy, with operational activities.

I do hope everyone enjoys their summer break; whatever you are doing, have fun!

Until next time.

DEADLINE

Your article should aim to be between 300-500 words in length, with a high resolution picture over 1MB for every 100 words you write. You should ensure that personnel/activities in photos are named and that you provide the author’s details, in case we require any more information. Send your completed articles to BZN-51DegreesNorth@mod.gov.uk. We look forward to receiving your articles and make every effort to publish as many of them as possible.

Anita – MCO Editor 51 Degrees North

Brize Development Team RAF Akrotiri Visit

Brize Development Team (BDT) have a drive to learn from others.

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel when it comes to major projects like runway resurfacing and the building of hangars, and if we can build good relations with our counterparts on other stations then we stand a better chance of projects coming in on time/budget and quality. To further this aim, we have visited RAF Lossiemouth and Oxford International Airport over the last year and our latest engagement event took us to RAF Aktrotiri, where we were warmly welcomed and hosted by personnel from British Force Cyprus.

Of particular interest to BDT was the replacement of Akrotiri’s existing Passenger Terminal. We were shown round the current facilities (a place you may be familiar with) and looking at it from the users’ viewpoint we could see the challenges, not least size and condition of the buildings. The promise of a new facility has proven welcome news to the Whole Force Team working in the Terminal and Cargo; they are able to positively influence a project that will bring their workplace into the 21st Century, benefitting all staff and passengers.

Having broken ground on the new Passenger and Freight Handling Facility (PHF/FHF) in summer 2023, we were curious to find out more. So what did the team learn from their visit to RAF Akrotiri, Programme Apollo and specifically the new PHF/FHF?

The mandate for Programme Apollo is based around the requirement for buildings to be seismically compliant due to there being a high risk of earthquakes in the region, whereas projects which fall under the BDT portfolio are subject to different Front Line Command priorities which therefore impacts on Programme Delivery timeframes for our projects.

Along with the Programme Apollo Project Managers we visited the contractors, CSP, on site where they gave us

a demonstration of the final design using Virtual Reality headsets, a great gadget but also really useful. The buildings are smaller in scale than those planned for Brize Norton but seeing the site in-person we got a feel for the size of the undertaking.

BDT’s Change Manager, Wing Commander James O’Neill, was also invited to visit the Deputy Commander British Forces Cyprus and deliver a brief explaining the ‘Development Team’ concept and its benefits and how these could be relevant to British Force Cyprus.

In sum, a successful and enjoyable visit, and BDT will continue communications with Programme Apollo and RAF Akrotiri to share best practice and learn from their experience. Looking to the future, we will continue to champion the benefits of the

Development Team model; a team with strategic oversight of all projects across a station is, we believe, a key component to success – to release operational staff and provide the continuity that long-term projects need. We look forward to meeting and collaborating with counterparts at other locations in the future.

For further information about BDT contact us via our group email: Air-2GpBrizeDevTeam@mod.gov.uk.

Squadron Leader Alex Howard Brize Development Team Requirements Manager

Ambulance Co-Responders

In addition to its role as the gateway to operations RAF Brize Norton also plays an important part in supporting the South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) NHS Trust.

Provided by South Central Ambulance Charity the Station is home to two SCAS Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs) crewed by members of the Station who volunteer as Military Co-Responders. Operating on behalf of SCAS, and managed by the ambulance controllers based in Bicester, volunteers are trained to respond to, triage and treat the most serious of life-threatening conditions reported to the Ambulance Service.

Carrying Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs), oxygen, Entonox pain relief and a range of trauma control equipment they are able to respond more rapidly than a standard ambulance to begin treatment well within the critical timelines that increase survival outside of hospital. The work is varied, with the teams routinely dealing with heart attacks, strokes, life-threatening asthma and road traffic incidents alongside other ambulance crews, the Air Ambulance, the Police and Fire Service.

The scheme at Brize Norton currently consists of 19 volunteers from AS1 to Sqn Ldr, and includes RAF, Army, MPGS, Regulars, Reservists and two RAF Cadet Adult Volunteers. All are qualified Level-three medics having completed a SCAS run five-day qualification, with around half having gone on to complete the four-week blue-light driving qualification.

Brize is not the only Station to host the capability with teams operating out of Andover, Benson, Corsham, Halton, High Wycombe, Odiham and Southwick Park. Similar Co-Responder schemes are operated by the Police and Fire Service, and, alongside the Community First Responders (CFRs), all work towards delivering critical care throughout the SCAS area.

The teams are always looking to recruit more volunteers for what is an interesting, varied, unpredictable and genuinely rewarding role, greatly valued by SCAS and the community. If you can spare 20hrs a month or more and want to make a difference, visit www.scasjobs.co.uk/moreinfo/ military or contact the Brize Military Co-Responder coordinator at matthew.woodward@sca-charity.org.uk

100th Anniversary Commemoration of RAuxAF - Reserves Day 2024

The Royal Auxiliary Air Force Foundation held a Centenary Service at the National Memorial Arboretum commemorating the founding of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force in 1924.

Wg Cdr Rich Evans (OC), Cpl Pauline Griffiths-Jeans and AS1 Ryan Moyles attended from 4624 Squadron, based at RAF Brize Norton. A wreath was laid by Cpl Griffiths-Jeans bearing the names of three former Squadron members who we have lost in recent years.

Sqn Ldr Nat Winsor also attended the ceremony representing 622 Squadron (based at RAF Brize Norton).

Over one hundred attendees, including serving and retired members of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) and civilians who have links with the Force, witnessed the parading of The Sovereign’s Colour. The service was held at the Royal Auxiliary Air Force Memorial, and the Reverend Sqn Ldr John Harrison officiated.

The service began by remembering the 1,200 members of the Force who have died whilst on duty or as a consequence of being on duty; followed by the laying of Memorial Stones for six former RAuxAF members, including four Battle of Britain pilots.

The service concluded with the dedication of a Plinth honouring all who have served in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force throughout its 100-year history.

A female musician (AS1 Anastasia Arnold) who was killed in a motor-cycle accident, Honorary Air Commodore (Lord Selkirk) who was a distinguished politician and author, and four Battle of Britain pilots - Group Captain George Denholm, Wing Commander Alastair Grant, Flight Lieutenant Carl Davis and Squadron Leader Archie McKellar. Carl Davis was killed during the Battle and Archie McKellar very shortly after.

Chairman of the RAuxAF Foundation, Gp Capt (Retd) Richard Mighall said:

“Since its formation in 1924, the men and women of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force have vindicated Lord Trenchard’s vision of having an elite corps of civilians who could support the Royal Air Force in both peace and war. Our Service here today recognises the vital contribution they have made over the past century and pays tribute not only to those who have lost their lives whilst on duty but also to all who have served in the Force throughout its distinguished history. We are must never forget them.”

Mass Casualty Training Exercise

4626 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron carry out mass casualty training.

During the July training weekend, 4626 Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) Squadron held a mass casualty exercise at RAF Brize Norton. The aim was to develop and master the skills and competencies of managing and treating a large number of casualties following an aircraft crash. The exercise was designed and run by the Medical Reserves themselves with support from the HQ's Training Team.

In summary, the mission for the exercise was to deploy to location ‘A’ and establish a Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) at a simulated aircraft crash, created by using the rear crew trainer, complete with smoke evacuation. The simulated incident resulted in a number of casualties, both inside and outside the aircraft. Once the aircraft was evacuated, the process commenced with locating the casualties and triaging them into priority order for medical treatment. Receiving initial treatment before being transferred to an MTF.

The management of such a scenario is always a challenge particularly in the early stages. However, using the experience and knowledge of the

medical staff from both the NHS and the military, the situation was soon under control. The main issue proved to be communication with the lack of radios and phones.

4626 AE Squadron has recently been financially supported by Southeast Reserves Force and Cadets Association who provided funding to procure a complete moulage (casualty fake wounds) training system. This was put to excellent use, which made the scenarios extremely realistic.

The weekend proved to be very beneficial and although the medical teams involved were all professionally qualified medical officers, nurses and paramedics, the majority were out of their comfort zone, and it was felt that the exercise had been an excellent training experience. The plan is to continue to develop the scenarios and repeat the exercise at least twice per year, which will enhance their medical skills to meet the operational capability requirement.

Craig Staniforth Squadron Leader 4626 Squadron

New Padre on Station!

Watch out, watch out, there’s a new Padre about!

I’m officially Rev (Sqn Ldr) Helene Grant, but you can call me Padre. I’ve spent the last couple of years as one of the Station Chaplains at RAF Cranwell, and I’m really looking forward to the next few years here at Brize. So, in case you are even vaguely interested, here’s a little bit about me: I like chocolate and cake far too much, but don’t like Haribo – which is good as it means I have more to give away.

I’m scared of having my face in water so I’m aiming to get a scuba diving qualification, because I also have an ambition to dive in the Red Sea. Perhaps controversially here (or maybe not) my favourite air platform is the Typhoon, but I’m an open-minded kind of person so feel free to persuade me that

Parachute Jumping Instructors Graduate

Congratulations to Parachute Jumping Instructor (PJI) Course 02/23 that graduated on 24th May 2024.

The Parachute Training Instructor’s and Training Officers have spent the last nine months learning all the necessary skills to become a PJI. The PJI’s received their brevets from Commander Air Wing, Group Captain Burdett during their graduation ceremony held at Airborne Delivery Wing (ADW) in front of all their loved ones.

The course started with a three-week Basic Military Parachuting Course, working alongside other airborne units such as the Parachute Regiment and Royal Marines. Following this, the prospective PJIs progressed onto high altitude static line and freefall parachutes, as well as learning the necessary skills to instruct on the LowLevel Parachute. This is the first PJI course that has included how to despatch the Low-Level Parachute out of the Atlas C Mk.1 (A400M).

Sergeant Luke Robbins said: “The PJI course has been an awesome experience. You’re learning skills you would never learn elsewhere. I’m really looking forward to progressing my parachuting abilities and hopefully one

day, being selected for the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team”.

The Training Officers on the other hand have been learning to become a Drop Zone Safety Officer often referred to as DZSO. This will be their primary role within their first tour at ADW. There are several key roles associated with being a DZSO such as: setting up the DZ, calculating the release point, briefing the ground team, communicating with the

Voyager, Atlas, or Globemaster should be in the No. 1 spot. And last, but not least, when I’m bored I get into all kinds of mischief, but apparently that isn’t going to happen here!

I promise that when I meet you I will do my best to remember you and your name, but there are quite a lot of you so it may take me a while. I’ll be getting out and about because I really do want to know what you do and how you do it. When I’m not doing that I’ll be at the Chaplaincy Centre with the coffee pot on and a biscuit waiting if you’d like to pop in and say hello. You don’t have to wait until life is challenging – I like to know the fun things too!

pilot, and most importantly dealing with incidents and emergencies.

ADW wishes the newly qualified PJIs all the best in their future careers and looks forward to re-starting the cycle as they welcome a new group of trainee instructors on PJI course 1/24 in the coming months.

International Women in Engineering Day 2024

The 2024 International Women in Engineering Day was celebrated on the 23 June, the day is an international awareness campaign celebrating the work and achievements of women engineers.

AS1 (T) Ailsa Dermidy is a 99 Squadron engineer working on the C-17 Globemaster. Ailsa had always been interested in science and maths at school and knew she wanted to be an engineer finding the perfect opportunity with the Royal Air Force. As part of a member of 99 Squadron engineering team, Ailsa has been able to go away as supplementary voluntary crew, supporting taskings around the world.

The Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) Engagement Team have had a busy beginning to the year.

Following a successful event at Carterton Library last year STEM ambassadors were asked to hold another event in February half term and during the Easter break. The activity involved encouraging children to understand and use coding with Lego Spike equipment. Those taking part really enjoyed being able to get handson experience of designing and coding a robot.

In June, STEM volunteers attended a Digital Future Day at the National Museum of Computing (NMoC) in Bletchley Park. The NMoC held the event for several schools to celebrate International Women in Engineering Day and invited some of our team to host an activity for secondary school age children. Using the Spheros

Bolt and an iPad the schools were able to code a robot ball from changing the colour to following a programmed track, the options were endless. The students became competitive, and they showed their excellent skills with complicated block coding.

AS1 (T) Ailsa Dermidy said: “I really enjoy my role, it’s hand on so I get practical experience doing lots of different jobs with a great team at 99 Squadron. Getting to work on the C-17 and previously the Chinook is amazing, and I think is pretty cool to say you work on these aircraft.”

The team will now be working towards their annual event Summer of STEM as well as supporting other events happening locally.

AS1 (T) Ailsa Dermidy, 99 Squadron Engineer.

STEM volunteers supported event at the Museum of National Computing.

206 SQUADRON TEAM

206 Squadron Staff Ride June 2024 – 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift.

This year signified the 75th Anniversary since the end of the Berlin Airlift, for which 206 Sqn, 30 Sqn and 51 Sqn played a fundamental part. Four members of 206 Sqn and the 51 Sqn Staff Ride (SR) Facilitator (Sgt Fyfe) were fortunate to participate in the Luftwaffe’s Berlin Airlift Commemoration at Faßberg, preceded by SR activity in Berlin to set the scene.

The Soviet’s Treptower Park was constructed to commemorate the 80,000 Russian soldiers who died fighting to liberate Germany but is now often referred to by Berliners as the “tomb of the unknown rapist”. It provided Sqn Ldr McLean the backdrop to open discussion on war crimes and human behaviour in conflict up to and including modern day by both UK and foreign forces.

Tempelhof

Airfield and the co-located airlift memorial (for 78 aircrew casualties) allowed Maj Williams (USAF) to discuss the Berlin Airlift and its lasting geopolitical impacts. As discussed by the group, the Airlift provided the German people with the resolve to stand up to the Soviet’s communist designs on the region, creating new alliances and laying the foundations for the European Union.

Looking into the effect of the Berlin Wall, the group visited the Palace of Tears (Tränenpalast), a former border crossing point between East and West Berlin (1962 to 1989), and where East Berliners escaped to the West, leaving family behind. Sqn Ldr Spector opened discussion on the current refugee crises and the success of the Op Polarbear and Op Pitting evacuations.

A visit to the Allied Museum provided a perspective on the Allied Forces’ Cold War role in Berlin, and for Flt Lt Staples to give a fascinating talk on BRIXMIS (British Commanders’ in Chief Mission to the Soviet Forces in Germany). This 31-personnel unit was given access to Soviet controlled areas of Germany to act as liaisons, but instead used much of their time spying (open source), making a significant contribution to Cold War intelligence gathering.

Coordinated by WO Paul Hicks (Luftwaffe), the Faßberg Ceremony for the 75th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift on 07 June was opened by Sqn Ldr McLean with a moving performance of Farewell to the Creeks/ All the Blue Bonnets O’er the Border.

The ecumenical service provided very strong messages of courage and solidarity, and emphasized how the

Allied museum RAF Police.

Fassberg group with Paul.

Soviet War Memorial Treptower archHammer and Sickle.

BY JOE GRAHAM

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SAT 28 TH

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A FISTFUL OF MONDAYS

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COUNTRY MUSIC IS NOW BIGGER THAN EVER AND THIS IS A PLAY THAT COMBINES COUNTRY MUSIC, LINEDANCING AND ROMANTIC COMEDY FROM A GREAT LOCAL WRITER, JOE GRAHAM.

Balancing Act present A FISTFUL OF MONDAYS. A hilarious romantic comedy that centres on the lives and loves of members of the Monday Night All Star Linedancing Group. A great range of linedance routines, a classic country music soundtrack, a romantic comedy storyline...it has it all!

Tom spends his evenings singing karaoke to an empty Walbersley Sports and Social Club, on its last legs. Not the most exciting existence and hardly making an effort to get back on the social scene since his divorce. His world and that of bar manager Barry are turned upside down by the arrival of The Monday Night All Star Linedancing Club, who use the club as rehearsal space in an attempt to drum up more business. Somehow, despite his lack of practise, Tom eventually stumbles his way into a romance with dance teacher, Annie, but this is soon in trouble as Tom faces his past demons and insecurities. The linedancing group encounter trouble of their own in the form of a traitor in their midst who splits the group and threatens their future as they prepare for a big linedancing weekend.

THE STORY OF A FISTFUL OF MONDAYS

Balancing Act first produced A Fistful of Mondays in 2009 at the OFS Studio Oxford to record-breaking audiences. This production created such a magical atmosphere throughout its run, that it led to a UK Tour in 2011, starring Shaun Williamson (EastEnders, Extras); Faye Tozer (Steps, Tell Me On A Sunday); Ian H Watkins (Steps, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) and Lyn Paul (The New Seekers, Blood Brothers).

With the world now in need of some laughs and entertainment, Balancing Act felt it was the right time to present a revival of A Fistful of Mondays at the Witney Corn Exchange.

In a unique theatrical double bill, Balancing Act will also present the world première of the sequel FOR A FEW MONDAYS MORE within a few months in June 2025. It is a two-play event not to be missed!! Bringing this fantastic world to life for an audience, in two exciting, lively and hilarious productions.

10 Squadron Association Annual Dinner - Presentations

On 17th May the 10 Squadron Association held their Annual Reunion Dinner at the Blunsdon House Hotel near Swindon and after the meal its Chairman Mike Westwood invited Association Member Dick King to say a few words about a set of WW2 medals that had initially been donated to the Association but which, it had then been decided, should be passed on to 10 Squadron at Brize Norton for their long-term care and ownership.

Somewhat to Mike’s surprise, Dick initially advised all present that Mike had recently decided to end his chairmanship of the Association, having had ten years in the post. As a gesture of the Association’s admiration and sincere gratitude for all that Mike has done during his period of office, Dick presented him with a glass-surrounded mantel clock on which a commemorative inscription had been engraved.

Dick then went on to show to all the diners, a montage of the medals which Mike was then able to present to the Officer Commanding No 10 Squadron, Wing Commander Jim Rycroft who was also present at the dinner. Dick had combined the medals into a framed montage which included a brief description of a Sgt Eric T. Cook to whom the medals were posthumously awarded after he had lost his life as a 10 Sqn Halifax flight engineer in July 1943, just two months after he had married. The medals had been donated by their present-day owner Jeanette McCormack, Cook’s niece, who wanted a safe home to be found for them.

The four medals are the standard ‘issue’ ones, earned by most aircrew who served in Bomber Command during WW2. Bearing in mind that the majority of the 839 men from 10 Sqn who comprised the 55,573 Bomber Command total WW2 losses, did not receive the more highly-acclaimed gallantry awards of the DSO, DFC/ DFM, or CGM, this in no way detracts from the value or the esteem in which 10 Squadron holds those who received these ‘standard issue’ medals. Sergeant Eric T. Cook was but one who never lived to receive his, but his contribution will never be forgotten.

Until 2024 Sgt Eric Cook’s medals were in the care of his niece and thanks to her previously researched in-depth family history, the Association found that most of the official documents, memorials, plaques, inscriptions and records, all wrongly

attribute Sgt Cook’s name to having an ‘e’ added to his surname. These include the 10 Sqn WW2 ‘Operations Record Books’, the Lincoln International Bomber Command Centre’s ‘List of Losses’ and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s ‘Air Forces Memorial’ plaque at Runnymede. Also, mis-spelt in the CWGC records is his father’s first name, assumed to be Edward rather than the correct Edwin, and in the same record, Eric’s new wife Freda’s second name, which should read Elvira, is shown as Eluira. A photo of Sgt Cook and a brief description of the above is included in the montage and more details of how Cook lost his life are included on a script mounted on the reverse of the montage.

The 10 Sqn Association and its parent Squadron are grateful for Mrs McCormack’s family history revelation about Cook’s name and her consideration to find a permanent safe home for her uncle’s medals so that they may be admired by present and future 10 Squadron members.

Station Heritage Centre

The RAF Brize Norton Heritage Centre project began in the summer of 2014; there had been an aspiration to have a dedicated site to display the Heritage and History of RAF Brize Norton and the Air Mobility Force as part of the Station Force Development (FD) Squadron initiative.

Work began to plan and prepare the original location for its role, including the collection of artefacts from around the Station, such as a VC10 Conway engine used for training engineers.

In 2018, a new location for the heritage centre was found in the building which is a part of the Station’s Heritage in its own right, having been the petrol station and garage built at Brize for personnel, during the time when the Station was a United States Air Force Base.

The aim of the Centre is, by using documents and artefacts, to represent the history and heritage of RAF Brize Norton. Unfortunately, the Conway Engine was not able to be displayed in the new centre as it was too large, but it finally found a new home and is on display at the Newark Aviation Museum.

The centre was formally opened in July 2020 by the Station Commander, at the time, Group Captain Dan James and is now available for prearranged visits.

Brief History of RAF Brize Norton

RAF Brize Norton was officially opened on 13 August 1937, although No2 Flying Training School had begun

and in Operation Market Garden, as well as several other airborne delivery tasks. In 1945, RAF Brize Norton became part of Transport Command, changing in 1949, to the Advanced Flying School.

operations before the building programme had finished. Flying training continued until 1942, when the Station became the Heavy Glider Conversion Unit.

The Station became operational in 1943, when for the first time in its long history it became a 38 Gp Station and was involved in the D-Day Landings

In 1951, RAF Brize Norton was transferred to the United States Air Force, whereupon a major redevelopment programme took place to make the Station suitable for the Jet Bomber Age. The United States operated at Brize (the RAF were at Fairford) until 1965, when the Station was handed back to the RAF and back to Transport Command. Since that date RAF Brize Norton operated as a Transport Command Station (until 1972), an RAF Strike Command Station (46 Group, 38 Group, and 2 Group) and is currently part of HQ Air, No 2 Group (the aircraft are now 1 Gp Air Mobility Force). Many squadrons have operated at RAF Brize Norton and it has been involved in all major military and humanitarian relief operations undertaken by British Forces in recent times.

Main Display Room.

Tristar Flight Deck.

Heritage Time Line.

JRWF New Minibus

How it came about?

The Junior Ranks Welfare Fund (JRWF) at RAF Brize Norton has owned a 17-seater minibus since 2015. To drive a minibus of this size you must have a D1 category driving licence. The JRWF have monthly meetings to discuss all their trading activities, of which the minibus is one and it became apparent that most JRs across Station were unable to drive this vehicle due to the licence constraints. In January 2023 a survey was put to the JRs across station and it was clear that they wanted to purchase a new vehicle without these restrictions. The manager of the Minibus, Sgt Alistair Jones, began to explore ways they could get a new vehicle and a business case was put forward to the ‘Nuffield Trust for the Forces of the Crown’ seeking funding. The application was successful and in August 2023 £30,000 was gifted to the JRWF for a new minibus.

What will the vehicle be used for?

The new vehicle can be hired by JRs across station for a wide variety of activities. It can be driven both in the UK and abroad, meaning that some people will use it for family holidays, whilst others may just use it for a

weekend staycation with their friends. The vehicle will also be used for charity events and has often supported charity bike rides and localyouth projects.

The cost of hiring this vehicle in civilian street can often be extremely expensive. The JRWF is therefore keen to keep the hire prices at a competitive rate for members across station. Although priority will be given to JRs, Senior Ranks and Officers are also able to hire the vehicle if its availability allows.

What the JRWF do?

The Junior Ranks Welfare Fund is a corporate body that organises, through a committee, all activities at Unit level of a welfare and amenity

nature for personnel of the rank of Corporal and below. It controls and administers the JRWF, which is the Station Fund financing and accounting for transactions relating to the recreation and activities entered for the collective benefit of the junior service personnel of the station. The fund has trading activities which includes the Campervan, Swimming Pool, Astra Bowl and Families Club to name a few.

How does someone go about renting it? All details on how to book the vehicle, including prices, can be found on the online SharePoint page. Navigate to ‘Community > JRWF > Minibus’. You can also send an email to BZN-BrizeMinibus@mod.gov.uk

Commendation in King’s Birthday Honours for Brize Norton welfare officer and SSAFA volunteer

Sarah Duviau, Welfare Officer with the RAF South Team, has been awarded the Chief of Air Staff’s Commendation in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours.

The nomination was made by Group Captain Claire O'Grady, the former Station Commander of Royal Air Force Brize Norton – where Sarah is based – and the commendation is for a combination of her professional work at the base and for her extensive voluntary work there with SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

In addition to her professional duties, Sarah – originally from Carmarthenshire – has given up countless hours at Brize Norton to help serving personnel and their families stationed there. In addition to being one of SSAFA’s Community Connection Champions, Sarah has

devoted herself to voluntary duties. Gp Capt O’Grady said in her nomination: “Sarah’s commitment and energy are extraordinary. She is delivering facilities that are improving the quality of life for all at RAF Brize Norton, and critically, reducing loneliness and isolation.”

Speaking of her accomplishments, Sarah said: “The music room – opened last year – was my biggest achievement, I have since set up music therapy, run a weekly art group and yearly station bowling event. In December 2023, I opened an all-ranks recreation room, and earlier this month, I ran a workshop promoting wellbeing and developing resilience for service personnel.”

Sarah’s passionate approach to those she works for was also commended by Charlotte Eadie, SSAFA’s Serving Community Manager, who said of Sarah: “This award is so very well deserved. You’ve worked tirelessly on

behalf of others and I can’t think of anyone more deserving. Huge, huge congratulations!”

The last word goes to Sarah, who added: “I’m incredibly grateful to have received this commendation; in fact, I was totally surprised and honoured to have been nominated in the first place. “I’m also grateful to everyone who has supported me in both my employed and volunteer roles at SSAFA, because without this support, what has been achieved at Brize Norton wouldn’t have been possible.”

SSAFA provides support to the military community – serving or veteran, and their families – in the UK and overseas, on RAF bases and in the civilian world.

To learn more about how to volunteer, fundraise for, and to access assistance, search for “SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity”.

Air Cadets Take To The Skies For Unforgettable Experience Flight

Air Cadets recently had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in an air experience flight, soaring through the skies and gaining firsthand knowledge of aviation.

The experience flight, organised by the RAF Brize Norton Air Cadet Liaison Team, was part of the Air Cadet program's commitment to providing young individuals with unique and inspiring experiences in the field of aviation. This event took place at RAF Brize Norton, where cadets boarded an Atlas C Mk.1 (A400M) hosted by 30 and LXX Squadron and embarked on a thrilling journey that combined a flight experience with educational insights. We hope everyone enjoyed the flight and will remember the trip for years to come!

RAF Brize Norton and the Air Mobility Fleet support RAF Air Cadet activity by hosting regular events such as day visits and air experience flight opportunities. The cadet program aims to foster an interest in aviation, leadership, and community service. Through activities like the experience flight, cadets develop confidence,

Open 6 Days a week • Over 50 Cars in Stock

teamwork skills, and a passion for the skies and the RAF Brize Norton Air Cadet Liaison team aims to host many visits to see our Station. Demand for visits is high and we may not be able to honour all requests due to being a high readiness front line unit.

Part Exchanges welcome/Cars bought for cash • Donation to the RAF

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Woodstock Stroke Club

Mr Mike Shipway, Secretary for Woodstock Stroke Club, regularly organises a program of speakers to visit the group and reached out to RAF Brize Norton; the Station Commander kindly agreed to find someone to visit the Woodstock Stroke Club to explain to the members the role of RAF Brize Norton.

As a stroke survivor I jumped at the chance to engage with the group, and we quickly agreed a mutual date.

Woodstock Stroke Club provides a support network for local stroke survivors to meet up and chat about their experiences and share problems/ issues. Part of this is a monthly meeting and chat from visiting speakers, hence Mike’s request. The group meets in Woodstock Community Hall and also welcomes stroke survivors from other surrounding areas and is keen to bolster their membership.

So, on the 14 May and ably assisted by a member of the Brize Media Team, we travelled to Woodstock Stroke Club and were very warmly met by the members of the Club, coffee, tea and biscuits were soon offered.

My Brize Norton capability brief lasted about 45 minutes and was very well received eliciting some very good questions. Following this we had a light

lunch and we mingled and chatted with the club members about Stroke and its damaging physical and mental effect on people. We genuinely met some true warriors in every sense of the word, who refused to let stroke hinder their day to day lives, certainly an inspiration to myself and a reminder how fortunate I am to be able to live a normal life.

Chatting with Mike he said: ‘If I were asked what the stroke survivors gain from the Club meetings, I would emphasise the health benefits of having a sense of belonging, something to look forward to, and the companionship of other members. The feedback I have received following your talk was extremely positive and made everyone aware of what happens at Brize and its importance to the locality, to the UK, and world safety’.

Mike’s kind words summed up what was a very enlightening humbling morning, which was fully enjoyed by all.

Sqn Ldr Masters COS BSW

Anyone wishing to join the group please contact the secretary of Woodstock Stroke Club, Mr Mike Shipwaymikeshipway71@gmail.com

Services - Repair - Restoration - Conservation

• Modern and Antique Watches

• Modern and Mass Produced Clocks

• Longcase or Grandfather Clocks

• French Clocks

• British Antique Clocks

So we can give you our best attention and arrange for the correct personnel to be present, please make an appointment before coming to the shop.

Clock Workshop - by Appointment

Call - 01993 772123

Phone lines closed Weekends and Bank holidays

Email - theclockworkshop@gmail.com

14 Langdale Court, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 6FG / SATNAV - OX28 6AR

Clock Workshop has been fixing the timepieces of Oxfordshire since 1910, but over the last few years, some things have changed considerably.

Third generation shop owner Steve Fletcher was given the opportunity to become a regular expert on BBC’s ‘The Repair Shop’ and suddenly our small family business was taking enquiries from people all over the country and beyond.

We now have a dedicated team of horologists working alongside Steve, fixing everything from family heirlooms to recent purchases and everything in-between. Our shop in the town centre of Witney is an Aladdin’s cave full of clocks, watches, tools and machinery with a backing track of ticks and Westminster chimes.

What really sets us apart from other clock and watch repair shops is that we don’t have specific brand accreditations, meaning we are not bound by the same constraints that other workshops have, and we can source parts from all over the world as well as making them from scratch by hand. This allows us to carry out repairs that other places simply cannot.

The watch photographed here was brought to us after it was dropped and run over by a car; In a terrible state, it was seemingly irreparable, however our watchmakers and team were able to handmake new parts and completely restore the case and dial – now, the watch can be passed down for generations to come.

Most of our work is carried out in-house so does not need to be sent away, but we also have a trusted team of other specialists that we call on, including woodwork restoration, glass replacements, dial restoration and goldsmith repairs to name a few.

Whether your watch needs a straightforward service, or your clock needs a full restoration, we are more than happy to answer your questions.

Email us: theclockworkshop@gmail.com

Call us: 01993 772123

10 Sqn Charities Committee Raise an Incredible £2,500 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Between June 2023 and May 2024, the 10 Sqn Charities Committee worked tirelessly to support Make-A-Wish Foundation, a charity that creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Over the past 12 months, the Committee’s dedication and hard work has been the driving force for successfully raising both funds and awareness for the charity.

In total the Committee has raised an impressive £2,500 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, this being achieved by holding several events throughout the year. These included a Charity Golf Tournament, a tombola and cake sale at the Voyager Families Day, hamper competitions, raffles, quizzes and more. The Committee also arranged a ‘Singo Music Bingo’ evening, this event required a huge amount of planning from the committee members, who were delighted with the great success of raising £551.56.

Di Smale, a representative for Make-AWish Foundation recently visited RAF Brize Norton to give personal thanks to the Committee. She expressed how grateful they were for all the effort and time the committee had put in, explaining that the money raised would help to bring a child’s life-changing wish to life.

In November, committee member Cpl Ash Davis also took on the mammoth challenge of a 24-hour Box Jump, with a set goal of reaching the height of Everest by jumping on a plyo-box for a solid 24 hours. Cpl Davis successfully achieved the challenge and reached the height of Everest (8,849m), raising an impressive £1,056 for the Foundation.

Cpl Ash Davis said:

“I took on the huge task of a 24-hour plyo box jump, in the hope of reaching the height of Mt Everest; with the help of other Service Personnel filling hourly time slots on the box next to

me. At roughly 2am, the realisation of what I’d set myself up for started to take its toll, as it was an extremely exerting challenge!”

Stationed out of the AirTanker Hub at RAF Brize Norton, the 10 Sqn Charities Committee is an organisation of Squadron personnel committed to helping charities and small businesses raise funding for fantastic causes. The committee supports different parties every year with the goal of better recognition for whom they’re assisting. All event planning and fundraising relies on volunteers giving up their own time outside of their primary flying role.

- Complete house rewires

- New builds

- Eicr Domestic and Commercial

- Fault finding and repairs

- Replacement fuse boards

- Boiler wiring

- Data cabling installations

- Fully insured and part p registered

- Domestic, Commercial and Industrial installations

Lawfield, Buckland Road (one mile out of Bampton) Bampton, OX18 2EW

Healing Military Minds 100K

Healing Military Minds raises over £100,000.

Healing Military Minds has recently passed a huge milestone, having raised an incredible £100,000. Healing Military Minds is a fundraising group. Founded in 2021 by Corporal Hayley Court, a reservist with 622 Squadron at RAF Brize Norton. Its aim is to raise money for Combat Stress, the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health.

As well as the smaller events throughout the year, Healing Military Minds also holds an annual ball. Last year, the event raised an incredible £28,000 on the night. This year, the 2024ball will take place on 16th November, aiming to continue raising money for Combat Stress.

Corporal Hayley Court said:

“Hearing stories from the people who Combat Stress have helped, and the positive impact the charity has had on their lives, has been incredible, and is what makes it such a worthwhile cause to raise money for. This could not have been achieved without the support of the previous Station Commander, Group Captain Claire O’Grady and Station Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Tug Wilson, alongside all of the sections and individuals at RAF Brize Norton and other units who have taken part in fundraising events for us.”

G et involved at BZN PEd Flt

Eight personnel from RAF Brize Norton visited The Wave in Bristol for the first serial of Ex Gateway Surf. The scheme offers personnel an opportunity to learn a new skill and challenge themselves in an unfamiliar environment, developing personal qualities required to perform in their daily roles and when on deployment.

An exceptional venue The Wave offers a safe environment with qualified coaches and plenty of guaranteed

waves suitable for the group. On arrival everyone was issued with a wetsuit, helmet and a surfboard. Before entering the water, the coaches briefed the group on safety and then went on to dry land drills to practice the techniques that make a success of catching a wave. More importantly looking cool, as this is what surfing is about.

After learning to ‘pop’ and how get in the right body position, it was time to enter the lake.

The next hour Brize personnel were repeatedly doing circles catching waves back to shore and wading back out to catch more. As expected, the first 30 minutes saw a lot of epic dismounts, with everyone attempting to stand and ride the wave. Those who did manage to stand didn’t last long, the excitement of standing up was too much causing them to lose balance and fall back into the water. No one gave up and the drive and determination to improve led to many

successes. Albeit they were only small waves, everyone now felt like a pro and ready to hit the epic waves you see on the Gold Coast of Australia. The hour and a bit on the water was physically testing but the effort was worth the reward. After a debrief with the coaches and identifying the next steps, the group showered and changed before going for lunch to discuss and share their experiences.

Sport is a great tool for developing our personnel and with Ex Gateway Surf providing a safe, challenging environment to facilitate personal growth. Throughout the exercise personnel were challenged to learn a new skill, improve communication and personal skills and build on morale. This event was a great example, of how as an organisation we can come together and work effectively as a team regardless of job role, age or gender.

EX Gateway Surf will aim to run once per month between May and September. If you are interested in being the project lead for a group, get in touch with the PEd Flt. This scheme is partly funded by the sports fund and personal contributions.

CO’s Cup runs on a monthly basis on the last Wednesday of the month. It is a chance for various sections around RAF Brize Norton to come together and compete in that month’s activity. As an example, this year some of the events that have run include: Darts, 5 aside Football and Volleyball, all of which have been extremely successful with 10 or more teams attending each event. Ultimately, this allows personnel to be part of an all-inclusive environment and to be competitive with other sections throughout station. This naturally facilitates different sections to socialise with each other and promote a ‘whole force’ concept to RAF Brize Norton!

Over the course of the year there are 11 events, running from FebruaryDecember. In each event the team that comes 1st will receive 20 points, 2nd 19 points, 3rd 18 points etc. At the end of the year the team with the most points will win the CO’s Cup for the year and have their section engraved onto the trophy. 1 AMW are the current reigning champions looking

Event Winners 2024

to defend their title this year, they are also the only section to have won the CO’s Cup a record breaking 3 times. Each year every team will have the opportunity to play their joker. This can be used once and allows teams to double their points for that month, depending on how many points they get. This must be declared before the start of the event.

Each team has a CO’s Cup rep, who is the spokesperson for their section. They will receive all correspondence from the PTI running CO’s Cup that month and it is their job to distribute this accordingly throughout their section. To get your section involved in CO’s Cup, please contact Cpl Tom Sanders, Tom.Sanders107@mod.gov.uk

CO's CUP

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Our high standards deliver the very best in host and guest experience with our local knowledge and cutting-edge technology to optimise your property’s potential.

Discover the difference that Pass The Keys can make to your hosting journey. Let us handle the details so you can enjoy the benefits of hosting knowing your property is in safe hands.

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To Advertise in this publication please contact Darren on 01536 680414 or email Darren@lancemediagroup.co.uk

MP MASSAGE THERAPY

If you’re fed up with waking up with a stiff neck and sore lower back, it’s time for a change. Book your session with MP Massage Therapy; we are dedicated to helping you feel better and stronger than ever.

We offer a diverse range of Soft Tissue Therapy treatments designed to address your specific needs, including Sports Massage, Stretch Therapy, Dry Cupping, and other therapeutic modalities. Don’t waste your time and money on wishy-washy therapists - experience the difference with us.

Visit our website for detailed information and to secure your booking. We also offer price plans to make your regular treatments more affordable.

Website: www.mpmassagetherapy.co.uk

Address: Upavon Way, Carterton, Oxfordshire

Thursday 7th November 4:30pm – 7:00pm Places still available for 2024/2025 www.burford.oxon.sch.uk

ARTWORK PROOF

An Idyllic Escape

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Magical, award winning glamping retreat in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds. The perfect place to unwind and recharge in beautiful surroundings.

An Idyllic Escape

Ideally situated between the golden sandy beaches of the East Coast and pretty green hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds (AONB), here you’ll find luxury glamping and holiday accommodation immersed in unspoilt nature.

Magical, award winning glamping retreat in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds. The perfect place to unwind and recharge in beau�ful surroundings.

Discover charming hobbit houses nestled beneath the canopy of branches and a blanket of star-filled dark skies.

Ideally situated between the golden sandy beaches of the East Coast and pre�y green hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds (AONB), here you’ll ﬁnd luxury glamping and holiday accommoda�on immersed in unspoilt nature.

Each retreat offers a beautifully unique and cosy stay, enveloped by serene woodland and blessed with sunlit views.

Discover charming hobbit houses nestled beneath the canopy of branches and a blanket of star-ﬁlled dark skies.

Each retreat oﬀers a beau�fully unique and cosy stay, enveloped by serene woodland and blessed with sunlit views.

Equipped with a barbecue, mini-fridge, fire pit, games and twinkling lights – memories here will last a life time.

Welcome to our award-winning countryside retreat; the perfect place to relax, unwind and recharge in beautiful surroundings. Ideally situated between the golden sandy beaches of the East Coast and pretty green hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds (Area Of National Beauty), here you’ll find luxury glamping and holiday accommodation immersed in unspoilt nature.

Equipped with a barbecue, mini-fridge, ﬁre pit, games and twinkling lights –memories here will last a life�me.

Indulge in the magic of this luxurious accommodation, where comfort meets the beautiful natural world.

Indulge in the magic of this luxurious accommoda�on, where comfort meets the beau�ful natural world.

Whether you’re searching for a roman�c getaway, a family escape or just some �me away to recharge, this unforge�able loca�on will not disappoint.

Whether you’re searching for a romanantic getaway, a family escape or just some time away to recharge, this unforgetable location will not disappoint.

Our name originated due to our peaceful, countryside location with no near light pollution. By night this is the place to enjoy the exceptionally starry dark skies, with far reaching views across the beautiful Lincolnshire Wolds (AONB). Sink into the lavish egg chairs by the fire and toast marshmallows with loved ones. You may even be blessed with a shooting star or two. The grounds here are filled with wildlife - with an abundance of rabbits, squirrels, badgers, pheasants, owls, muntjac deer and even the odd fox. Our countryside location sits opposite Stewton’s Norman Church at the end of a very quiet lane, making this the perfect place to switch off and relax.

Should you have any questions please get in touch!

Tel: 07824 324932

PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE

A CAREER IN THE MILITARY IS NOT JUST A JOB, IT’S A LIFESTYLE. THE NATURE OF YOUR JOB IS RISK, THE NATURE OF A LAWYER’S JOB IS PROTECTION. THAT’S WHY GOUGHS HAVE DEVELOPED AN ARMED FORCES TEAM WHO HAVE SPECIALIST KNOWLEDGE AND THE ABILITY TO SUPPORT YOU AND PROTECT YOURS AND YOUR FAMILIES’ FUTURES.

POWERS OF ATTORNEY

• Powers of Attorney allow other people to make decisions for you when you may not be able to, for example when you are away from home for long periods of time, or, should anything happen to you. Unfortunately, a ‘next of kin’ will not automatically be able to act on your behalf without a POA being in place.

• There are different types of POA and you can set up more than one. Our armed forced team will help you identify which ones will work for you.

WILLS

• Creating a Will the right way will protect your wealth and assets and ensure your family is provided for, in a way you would want, on your death. A Will should consider who you wish to pass your assets to and our experts will and create the best outcome for inheritance tax. We will help you construct a will that ensures your personal circumstances are considered. MoD Form 106 are not designed well enough for the modern age.

DIVORCE AND SEPARATION

• Armed forces pensions are set up differently to other pensions, meaning there are traps and pitfalls that you could potentially fall into on divorce. Your pension will often be a more, if not the most, valuable asset on divorce and it is therefore important that your legal adviser has great working knowledge of the various schemes and what that means for you, for your future and for your children.

• Relationship breakdown also brings challenges to accommodate for children, especially for military families where deployments can make it even more uncertain for the children involved. We are here to help with reaching an arrangement for your children that is tailored to your unique situation.

At Goughs, our armed forces team has the specialist knowledge to help you plan for your future. Mark Hood is head of our armed forces team and served for 20 years before moving to a career in law, so he not only understands your situation but has lived through it.

Contact Mark Hood on 01225 781 925 or email us at