Cosford - Summer 2023

Cosford Apprentice

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FROM THE FOREWORD

By Group Captain Cameron GW Gibb MBA BENG (HONS) CENG CMGR MIET MCMI RAF EDITOR

Another significantly busy year is well underway for us all at Cosford. With HM The King & Queen’s Coronation now accomplished and, Air Show, RIAT and COS85 celebrations just around the corner, this edition highlights all the things happening ‘above and

beyond’ with thanks to the staff on station! From Kart club getting back onto the tarmac with 2 rounds completed and the conservation area beginning to take bloom, this is truly an exciting summer edition. Please keep your articles coming!

Welcome

Over the last couple of months, the Station has been busy preparing for their Majesties the King and Queen Consorts Coronation. Over 300 personnel were in support of this once in a generation event, with most going onto London to act as escorts and route liners during the Royal procession. A very proud moment for all involved.

RAF Cosford has also hosted the Chief of the Air Staffs Commendation ceremony in April after it was relocated following many years support from RAF Northolt. It was a privilege for us to support the recipients and their friends and families as they were awarded the highest commendation in the RAF.

Across the Station many of our personnel have been able to undertake adventurous training and representative sporting activity, from gliding and skiing to kart racing and a motorcycle

expedition – it’s nice to hear that they have been able to enjoy these opportunities.  Indeed, many of those involved have received accolades for their contribution – of particular note, Mr Ian Gallacher and Mr Alun Williams for their work with the RAF Gliding and Soaring Association. Well done gents!

Life at RAF Cosford has also been improved with the opening of a dedicated Postal Office by our Main gates. The Office now handles all post into and out of the Station alongside deliveries for those that live on site, and I am very grateful to Mrs Ailidh Leather and her team for setting up such a service.

As I look forward, the summer is just as exciting for us with the RAF Cosford Air show on 11 June and then in July it is our 85th Anniversary – have a look out for our logo and the design process in this magazine. I hope you enjoy reading about all these events.

to the summer 2023 edition of the Cosford Apprentice.

Defence College of Technical Training welcomes new Commandant

Brigadier Caroline Woodbridge-Lewin BEng, MSc, MBE is the new Commandant of the Defence College of Technical Training, at MOD Lyneham, Wiltshire.

Brigadier (Brig) WoodbridgeLewin was commissioned into the Royal Signals in 1995. Whilst serving, she has secured a Batchelors degree in Electronic Systems Engineering and a Masters in Information Management and Technology (IMT) through Cranfield University and the Royal Military College of Science.

Woodbridge-Lewin has held various Regimental appointments while serving in the United Kingdom, USA, Cyprus, Germany, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. She has attended the Joint Services Command and Staff College on the Intermediate, Advanced, and most recently the Higher Command and Staff Courses, and has served as a Directing Staff at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the Defence Academy.

Brig Woodbridge-Lewin has worked with a Defence Special Customer as a Capability and Acquisition advisor. She has also brought her expertise into Home Command delivering personnel, welfare and casualty services, within the Army Information Directorate as part of the A2020 review team and as Chief of Staff of the Defence Academy. She commanded 2 Signal Regiment from 2016 to 2018 and was awarded the MBE in 2017. In 2020, WoodbridgeLewin assumed the role of Head Information Warfare Group.

In 2022, she completed a secondment as the Defence Strategic Liaison Officer to the Home Office before returning to the Defence Academy to lead and develop the Defence Cyber Academy. She now joins the Defence College of Technical Training as Commandant on promotion in April 2023.

Brig Woodbridge-Lewin said:

“I am delighted to be taking up the position of Comdt DCTT at a time where the demand on our People, particularly a need for technical skills and engineering expertise, is considerable. Continued investment in high quality training and education is critical to securing and maintaining advantage in these uncertain times. I look forward to meeting those responsible for

delivery across all of the DCTT Schools and supporting the team preparing for our future”.

Outside of work, WoodbridgeLewin enjoys playing and coaching hockey, running and spending time with her two daughters, Sophie (12) and Amelie (8) and her Labrador Luna.

More about the Defence College of Technical Training (DCTT)

The DCTT delivers tri-Service technical training and education for marine, electronic and mechanical, aeronautical, and communication and information systems engineering.

The College consists of four schools, based across six sites, with 2400 military, Civil Servant and contractor staff delivering 3500 courses per annum to a standing student population of approximately 5000 Service personnel.

The four Schools are:

• Defence School of Marine Engineering (DSMarE) based at HMS SULTAN in Gosport and provides general and submarine engineering training;

• Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering (DSAE) based at RAF Cosford, including the HQ, Number 1 School of Technical Training (No 1SoTT) and Aerosystems Engineering and Management Training School (AE&MTS), with the RN Aeronautical Engineering and Survival Equipment School (RNAESS) in HMS SULTAN, Gosport and the School of Army Aeronautical Engineering (SAAE) in MOD Lyneham;

• Defence School of Communications and Information Systems (DSCIS) based at Blandford, including the HQ and 11 Signal Regiment (11(RSS) Sig Regt), with Number 1 Radio School (No1RS) based in RAF Cosford and Digby; and

• Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) based at MOD Lyneham, including the HQ, 8 Training Battalion (8 Trg Bn) and REME Arms School (REME AS), with Number 4 School of Technical Training (No 4SoTT) based in St. Athan.

THE POST ROOM HAS MOVED

At the end of March, the Post Room moved from Building 206 in the Media Centre to Building 155. The Post Room is now situated closer to the main guardroom which will make life easier and quicker for all couriers when delivering parcels.

It was all hands to the pump by members of the team as they put their mark on their new Post Room. The relocation went smoothly, and the team would like to thank course 4400/069 who helped with the project as did Sgt Arnold & Sgt Bridgewater; all from No1 Radio School.

Everyone pitched in to help paint and prepare for moving day. We are now up and running and look forward to welcoming everyone to our new home.

Wing Commander Tucker officially opened the building on 29 Mar 2023.

RAF GLIDING AND SOARING ASSOCIATION (RAFGSA)

Congratulations Alun Williams Congratulations Ian Gallacher – Member of the Year

RAF Gliding and Soaring Association (RAFGSA) club secretary and Bronze C pilot, whose progress was recognised by the RAFGSA at their AGM held today. An enthusiast for all matters aviation Alun managed to fit in, around the day job,

help with the establishment of a new microlight club at RAF Cosford whilst also assisting in the move of RSGC from Cosford to Shawbury. A great ambassador for the club and the RAFGSA, and well done Alun.

Congratulations to Ian Gallacher who was recognised by the RAF Gliding and Soaring Association (RAFGSA) at their AGM in March as RAFGSA Member of the Year, with the award of the Andy Gough Memorial Trophy.

Ian, who works in Human Factors, is CFI of the RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC). The award recognises, amongst other things, his inspired contribution to the world of gliding, both nationally and internationally. Later this year he will be CFI for The Tri-Service AT expedition to Sisteron that sees challenging flying in the French Alps and with help from the RAF Sports Lottery and RAF Charitable Trust the individual cost to service personnel for this expedition is kept to a minimum.

Recently Ian secured Central Funding to deliver gliding

Scholarships to phase 1&2 trainees at both RAF Cosford and RAF Shawbury, 34 of whom have been awarded a scholarship with 8 sent solo. This funding delivers an 8-flight introduction to gliding, funds a second 2 seat training aircraft and the purchase of a simulator. The scholarships have been so popular that there is now a waiting list.

You may have seen Ian displaying his aerobatic routine at The RAF Cosford Airshow, a display that he will repeat in 2023. He has also been appointed as the BGA senior aerobatics this year and RSGC has already seen an increase in members joining to seek his instruction in aerobatics. As an aerobatics display pilot, he has delivered displays at several military sites in RAFGSA aircraft demonstrating another capability and again inspiring others to aspire.

If you are part of the Service Community, including dependents, MOD CS and Contractors, and this has attracted your attention and you’d like to know more about gliding, please contact Ian @ Ian. Gallacher375@mod.gov.uk, and he will be delighted to answer your questions. Also available on MODNET Skype or Teams. You can also find more details on our website at https://www.rafshawburygc.co.uk #rafgsa #gliding #raf_shawbury.

ANDY GOUGH MEMORIAL TROPHY

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EXERCISE DIGITAL SNOW

A small team from RAF Cosford participated in No.1 Radio School (1RS) ski expedition, Exercise DIGITAL SNOW, with the aim of giving personnel the opportunity for personal development, improving teamwork, and forming stronger powers of communications through the medium of alpine skiing. The exercise took place between 411 May 23 in the small resort of Montgenèvre, France.

The team consisted of 11 personnel, 6 from No1 Radio School, 3 from RAF Cosford and 2 instructors who all answered the call to take part in this amazing opportunity.

Leaving RAF Cosford for the airport in the very early hours, it was a quick flight to Turin. From there it was a relatively short coach ride to the resort which sits on the border of France and Italy. After a short wait in the town centre, our minibus arrived and took us to our accommodation. It was a modest chalet but with stunning views of the mountains and all the mod cons you could need for a week’s self-catering alpine adventure.

Dropping our bags off, we were off again. This time to collect all the ski gear we needed. This provided an opportunity to get reacquainted with just how uncomfortable ski hire boots really are, just hoping that you get given a comfy pair.

Back at the chalet it was a chance to get to know the rest of the team. Chief instructor Sgt Tom Hanlon facilitated some ice breakers and discussed what we wanted to get out of the week ahead, a popular answer being fun. All participants had skied before, holding at least military

Ski Foundation 2 qualification so Tom decided that we would all ski together in one group and he would provide individual coaching. The majority had not skied since before COVID lockdown, so would need some time getting back into it, but a couple had recently returned from the RAF Cosford Exped to Tux, Austria – so had no excuses! Although a small resort, Montgenèvre offered a wide variety of ski terrain including plenty of blue and red runs, where we were able to get our ‘ski legs’ in and practice our improvement techniques through skills and drills given to us by Tom. Also, there were some ‘cheeky’ black runs which were approached with some trepidation and required a lot of concentration to get down in one piece. Throughout the week we would re-ski these and it was really encouraging to see the progress of the group as they approached with no fear.

The weather throughout the week provided another challenge, where it was changeable at best. One moment we would be skiing in glorious sunshine doing large carving turns to being in a complete ‘whiteout’ in strong winds hoping the edge of the slope was not rapidly approaching. Even this bad weather provided us with valuable skills in how to ski in close groups and reminded us of the ever-present risks in the mountains.

On Thursday Tom gave us free reign to plan our day. A study of the map and some local knowledge from Mick McCann it was decided we would ski to the Italian resort of Sestriere. This resort hosted the 2006 winter Olympics and has some great slopes. Unfortunately, we were thwarted as the runs linking the

two resorts were closed due to lack of snow at low level. Back to the drawing board and with our impromptu guide Mick, we headed for the highest part of the resort which had the widest runs on offer.

Departure day arrived and the weather would provide one final challenge as overnight there was a large dump of snow. This caused havoc in the town and surrounding roads with cars stuck on the routes in, leading to large delays. Our collection time came and went, a few phone calls later a minibus arrived to take us to the coach. The coach only had room for 9, so drawing the short straws were FS Iain Harman, Sgt Tom

Hanlon & Sgt Neil Owen, who would wait for another coach.

The 1st coach departed as soon as the 9 got on and we trundled down the mountain, with the closing scenes of ‘The Italian Job’ playing in my mind. With just 45 mins to our flight departing, the Montgenèvre 3 finally made it to Turin Airport.

Now back at Cosford, I have had time to reflect on the weeks

skiing and can say that the aims of the exercise were met, and that fun was had by all involved. I would like to thank all participants and especially FS Iain Harman and the 1RS AT/FD Committee for organising this event. Sgt Tom Hanlon, Sgt Neil Owens for their expertise and patient instruction and finally Cpl Tracey Down for organising our equipment and being chalet chef extraordinaire.

A Motorcycle Adventure EX WELSH RIDER

That’s the thing about opportunity, sometimes it comes your way but often you have to hunt it out. Having missed the first of the new style of military motorcycle adventure expeditions along the Great Western Trail in January 2022, I was keen to be considered for this year’s trip and a chance email put me firmly in the inbox of the lead for Exercise WELSH RAIDER (10-14 Apr 23), a 5-day 1250km unsupported adventurous motorcycle expedition around the Welsh section of the Trans Euro Trail (TET), authorised under ACSO1209 and acknowledged by the British Armed Forces Motoring Association under the banner of Adventure Motorcycling (Heavy Enduro).

With my old bike, a veteran of 20 years of off-road camping trips across Spain, The Pyrenees and south to north transits of France, stuck in the garage with a seemingly unfixable electrical issue, it was time to source a new bike and the savings pot was emptied. And then the credit card was flexed preparing it for off-road action and the necessary modifications for adventure travel. To demonstrate my competence and confirm my place on the deploying team I entered, and successfully completed Exercise SAXON EXPRESS, a military off-road navigation event on the Bovington tank ranges.

With a window of opportunity identified during Easter block leave, an eclectic team of eight motorcyclists, with a mix of ranks and varying skill and experience, was drawn from across the Army and formed into a cohesive team, scheduled to meet at Cannock Services at Naafi break on Monday. More diverse was the collection of bikes, ranging from 250 to 700cc in engine size, 130-200+kg from brand new to a battle-scarred 2004 machine. All were shod in aggressive knobbly tyres to cope with the off-road terrain and loaded with camping kit and enough tools to fix whatever mechanical gremlins might arise.

The shakeout ride along the tail end of the Great Northern Trail to Nesscliffe was so successful that the decision was made to push on to Snowdonia and as soon as we crossed the border into Wales the rain started. And it did not stop. Planning to camp in the grounds of Capel Curig, some nifty late evening negotiation allowed us to blag some accommodation, which allowed for kit to be dried and to approach the second day in a positive fashion.

This was just as well because on the second day the trails were more challenging and the weather worse. Steep ascents and

rocky descents, on washed out trails that commonly resembled streams, and an endless succession of livestock gates were endured across Snowdonia, with the worst obstacles requiring significant team effort to overcome. Yet these were interspersed with some truly beautiful, unspoilt places, largely unreachable for most. The hills were full of spring lambs, a number of whom had found themselves on the wrong side of a drystone wall, necessitating repatriation operations that lifted the spirits. Fairborne was reached on the second night, and a lack of camping and weather warnings of a significant storm drove us

into the warmth of an AirBnB close to a pub with a log fire.

Day three was the most challenging, as winding trails and driving rain, sleet and ultimately snow saw cases of borderline hypothermia, necessitating a late-night dash into Aberystwyth for shelter. Awaking to sunshine on Day 4 we made the most of it, and made up the lost mileage, crossing the Cambrian Mountains and dashing across Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons) to Pontypridd on the south coast. As mechanical failures took their toll on the size of the group, South Wales, previously considered to be the most benign of the trails has a few cheeky surprises around Cwmbran with steep trails littered

with rock steps that tested the now fatigued riders. The rain had returned with a vengeance, but as we approached the end morale was high. Tintagel Abbey was reached and then the finish line, a small bridge over the River Wye at Brookweir.

The exercise was successfully completed navigating the route to time and to plan. Due to a variety of reasons (predominantly injury and mechanical breakdown), of the nine riders that participated, only four crossed the finish line and of those just two had completed every mile of every section of the entire route and I was one of them, alongside the exercise lead (on the oldest heaviest bike!).

This exercise, building on the

partial success of its predecessor, Ex CORNISH RAIDER, has done much to cement adventurous motorcycling as a legitimate training activity delivering significant benefit in fields such as teamwork, navigation, problem solving, and resilience. This exercise was challenging enough given the nature of the terrain along the Welsh TET, which is acknowledged as some of the toughest in the UK, if not in Europe. However the weather,

which was cold and wet for 4 of the 5 days, served to increase the difficulty requiring participants to dig deep into their personal reserve of grit and determination. Relentless in the in pursuit of the mission, even in the face of a number of frustrating situations, the team overcame mechanical failure, route amendments and endured occasional snow flurries in the remotest areas of Wales, and had a jolly good time doing it!

COSFORD SKI EXPEDITION 2023

“No one is ever going to knock on your door and give you an opportunity” – is a statement I’ve often agreed with, however, every now and then one might just land in your inbox! That is exactly what happened to myself when I read that volunteers were required to undertake a week-long skiing expedition in Austria.

CT Dave Russell from No1SofTT alongside Cpl Daryl Coldicutt from the School of PT had planned a week-long ski trip in the beautiful mountainous region of Mayrhofen- Austria.

Skiing is one of those sports that can be notoriously expensive when you factor in the travel, accommodation, equipment hires and ski passes. But when I read that a personal contribution of £300 would result in a week of skiing lessons, I decided that this was too good an opportunity to miss and promptly signed up. As a novice skier I had almost no clothing that would stand up to the minus 14 temperatures that awaited in Mayrhofen, but thankfully the station AT store was packed full of cold weather kit and it wasn’t much longer until I was sat alongside 40 other personnel from Cosford on a bus bound to Gatwick airport. Having landed in Munich, a 3-hour coach journey took us over the border into Austria.

As the coach slowly wound its way up the tight twisting mountainous roads the altitude and excitement began to climb in equal measure. With each rising metre the landscape seemed to be covered with more and more glorious white snow. After what seemed like an eternity of travel we finally arrived at the accommodation, but there was little time to relax as we were whisked straight up to the hire shop to be kitted out with skis, boots, poles and helmets. Sunday saw us ascend on the slopes for the first time, a good 15 or so of us had never even seen a ski boot let alone walked in one and it is safe to say that by the time we reached the bus stop that would take us to the bottom of the ski lift ‘Some’ of us had just about gotten the hang of it – sort of!

The experienced among the group showed the novices how to navigate the gondolier style ski lifts that would take us up to the top of the mountain range. After a scenic 10-minute ascent we reached the summit where we were divided into 5 groups based on ability and experience with each group being assigned a qualified Ski Instructor. On the slopes FS Sean O’Donnell was the overarching safety officer keeping everyone safe and injecting morale with his infectious personality. I felt doubly safe as WO Daryl Owens and AS1 Laura Yemm both from the Medical

Centre were in my group, but luckily their expertise was not required. Prior to our arrival we had been blessed with heavy snowfall which meant conditions on the slopes were perfect even if the 1st time skiers were not!

The morning of Day 2 brought about many sore legs, thighs and shins particularly from those of us that had spent large parts of day 1 falling over and picking ourselves back up. However, the mood was positive amongst the group. Sgt Luke Horrocks used the wait for the ski lift to talk about the four pillars of resilience (Mental, Physical, Social and Spiritual). It’s a message that was not lost on the audience, with Cosford being the starting journey for so many ground ranks in the Royal Air Force, it’s important on all of us to build resilience amongst those who are the future of the service. On top of that, we would all seemingly have to find some mental and physical resilience if we were to last the full 6 days!

Thankfully day 2 brought about a lot of progress across all the groups with AS1 Matt Griffiths from No1 RS making solid progress as he transitioned from Bambi-On-Ice to Slick-Sexy-Skier in a matter of 48 hours.

By day 3 the art of skiing had begun to click for almost all participants. Special mention should also go to Cpl Jake Gosling who began the

PROJECT GREENSPACES

CONSERVATION – ALLOTMENT – PEN RECYCLING – WILDFLOWERS

week as a novice and just 3 days later he’d carved some shapes on a black run. The carving of shapes wasn’t confined completely to the slopes, as individuals found time to enjoy the Apres-ski culture and take in some traditional Austrian music in the evenings.

The final 3 days of skiing saw all groups ascending the Hintertux Glacier. Not only did we take in the glorious view from over 10,600ft but this was also our new playground where we would put our newly acquired skills to the test on some of Austria’s most picturesque slopes.

Some of the more advanced skiers, including Cpl Louis Blanshard from Police Flt, took on Austria’s steepest slope – The Harakiri which is a 1500m slope that features a spine tingling 78% gradient.

The final day of skiing was by far the most satisfying, the novice groups skied side by side amongst the seasoned pros and every single member of the expedition could say that they had made outstanding progress. As the bus rolled down the icy mountain terrain and back over the border into Germany, I reflected on how lucky I was to undertake an opportunity like this one. Not only had I attained my Ski Foundation 1 Training, but I had also made plenty of new friends along the way.

Addressing the group CT Dave Russell told participants “These weeks are what you’ll look back on with fond memories, I’ve had one of the best working weeks in years”. It’s a statement I find hard to disagree with and having had this amazing opportunity myself I will be sure to promote future opportunities amongst my peers.

By Sgt James Holland

The Conservation Area continues to provide a space for reflection and offers opportunities to connect with nature for everyone at Cosford. One way of doing this is through community projects. BES 14 (AS) recently gave their time for community work, to carry out some maintenance such as weeding and path clearing. Impressively, they also got creative by turning old pallets into a rustic seating area next to the pond. We are so grateful for their efforts as this essential work ensures the Conservation area remains accessible to all.

Over the next few months spring will make way for summer. With flowers blooming, plants growing, and birds nesting, there is always something to see, if you just stop to look. Why not take a walk around the area, take a seat next to the pond for a few minutes to experience it for yourself. New signs are due to be installed, to guide you through some mindful

activities and deepen your connection to nature. We have made more headway in the Allotments too, with a few hardy individuals meeting most Tuesdays to maintain momentum. We remind ourselves that motion is great, but action is what provides results! We are planning ahead and enjoying getting our hands dirty each week.

With new plots now available it’s a great time to get involved. We know that being physically active is good for our physical health. And further research proves that social connection is essential for our mental health. Whether you enjoy an afternoon walk with friends around the Conservation Area, or want to try growing your own food, Project Greenspaces has an activity for you. There is much to gain by joining us - get in touch to find out how.

Nicola.tait160@mod.gov.uk

RAF COSFORD AT THE CORONATION

By Squadron Leader Dave Kerrison

Just over 7 months since the State Funeral of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth, about 300 Cosford personnel deployed to another large-scale public event that was to be watched by billions of people across the world.

History will record that the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla took place on 6 May 2023; this article will give the reader some small insight into what it was like to take part in that Coronation.

Planning for Cosford’s support to the Coronation began in 2022. We were to provide the King’s Colour for No.1 School of Technical Training to be a part of the marching contingent and 12 Half Companies to line the streets from the Women in War Memorial located on Whitehall, around

Parliament Square, finishing outside Westminster Abbey. Four members of the Colour party, 294 Street Liners, some reserves and people performing additional duties meant that Cosford sent over 300 personnel to London. The largest single contingent from the RAF, many of whom had been in the Service for only a few months.

An advance party consisting of all Half Company Commanders and SNCOs travelled ahead of the main party to attend an intensive ceremonial brief and familiarise themselves with the Coronation route in Central London. The main body of Cosford personnel arrived at RAF Halton two days later and joined personnel from across the RAF. An intense period of rehearsal began and over the 10 days, words of commands were studied and memorised, drill movements and sequences were constantly practised, and the time spent standing still was increased daily. Standing still requires training and during the Coronation, we would all be standing still for over 4 hours.

In addition to our training schedule, we also had to participate in a Daylight Rehearsal (DLR) and an Early Morning Rehearsal (EMR) before the Coronation itself. The DLR required all Half Company Commanders and SNCOs to travel to RAF Odiham to meet up with all the other several thousands of military participants at a simulated rehearsal. This event provided a great opportunity to understand the enormity and scale of the Coronation, a situational awareness of key timings and things to look out for which would provide the cues to instigate Royal Salutes etc.

The next major event was the EMR. Departing during the evening of 2 May, we all boarded the coaches to catch the train at Tring to arrive at Waterloo

station. Some lucky people, not me, managed to get the 1st Class carriages located at the front of the train. Arriving at Waterloo station, we practiced the unloading process and formed up on the platform to march the 30 minutes to our holding area at Westminster Chapel. By the time we finally marched back to Waterloo station, some 5 hours later, we had a better idea of all the movements, and we had practised our drill. Fortunately, back at the station we received a substantial food box before boarding our train to Halton. Between now and Coronation there were only a couple of days of rehearsals left which was then followed by a enforced rest period before the big day.

Saturday 6 May, London. The time is 6.50 a.m. and all 12 Half Companies have departed the train at Waterloo station and are waiting for the signal to step offdestination Westminster Chapel. The band struck up and we were on our way. The conditions were wet but the crowds were already

in place watching and clapping as we led the procession on our march. You could feel the tension rising but the troops remained focussed as we started to enjoy the experience.

At precisely 0850 the right markers started their memorable march to their respective points along our route. What a moment!

At precisely 0908, the rest of Cosford’s personnel marched off and commenced the deployment manoeuvres we had been practising. Everything went as scheduled and it was an amazing experience to march behind the band as the bass drum was beating, the crowds clapping and cheering. Marching towards Westminster Abbey I identified our right marker and positioned the troops so they could be deployed and we started to view the constant stream of dignitaries and Royals entering the Abbey. As a Company Commander you are constantly on edge trying to watch your troops, so that you don’t miss anyone or make a mistake. You could feel the atmosphere mounting and very shortly you could hear the bands playing and hear the hooves of the horses as Their Majesties finally approached. For me, this was the most nerve-racking point as I had to issue commands to move the troops from their Stand Easy posture to the Royal Salute, a simple series of commands we’ve practised numerous times, but it’s all about starting with enough time so the Royal Salute is in position before the King entered my area. This Royal Salute was held for quite some

time as we couldn’t relax until the King had entered the Abbey and the doors had closed; it was about 15 minutes. Once the King was in the Abbey, all the street liners commenced a 50:50 rest rotation which meant that half of the troops could leave their post and march in formation to a designated rest area located on the aptly named King Charles Street for a brief rest.

Rested, we then held our positions and awaited Their Majesties leaving the Abbey so

we could issue their first of many Royal Salutes. To see the newly crowned King and Queen pass right in front of you was a surreal feeling and an experience that would live with us all.

After a lengthy time at the Royal Salute, we were released from our duties and could reform, and all meet up on Westminster Bridge. We commenced our final historic march back to Waterloo Station with the band playing the RAF March. We had the honour of

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leading the rest of the troops and for me this was the most joyous and memorable point of the whole deployment to support the Coronation. We had brought fresh troops and developed them into proud members of the RAF, and I felt immense pride in their performance and what they had accomplished. These aviators are our next generation and I felt secure that the mantle can be safely passed to them. What an experience and careertopping memory.

Returning to RAF Halton, the troops we’re both elated and exhausted and the train journey was a mixture of people going to sleep and chatting through the historic events they had witnessed that day. For one young aviator, he would be receiving the Coronation Medal after graduating from his RAF basic training only 8 days prior to deploying on this task. This must be some form of a record for the shortest time served for a medal recipient ever!

‘WE’RE OFF TO FLY IN THE ALPS’

During the year there are several opportunities for our club members to take part in gliding expeditions that allow service personnel to further develop their flying skills. This year four RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC) members, led by RAF Cosford based RSGC’s Ian Gallacher as the expedition CFI, have been selected as some of the lucky participants to take part in the annual tri-service expedition, Parcours Combattants 29 Apr – 14 May 23, to Sisteron in France and joining with pilots from the Royal Navy and Army.

If you haven’t flown there before then you have to be prepared for the magnificent setting of the splendour of the French Alps. Sitting at over 1,700ft, Sisteron airfield lies on a large plateau bordered to the West by the valley of the river Durance and to the North, East and South by the Alps.

The expedition is open to all post-solo pilots and is a fantastic and challenging opportunity for young service personnel to fly in the southern French Alps, with the surrounding area making unique demands on the flying skills, airmanship and personal courage of pilots of all experience levels.

We look forward to hearing how they get on later. However, if this has attracted your attention and you’d like to know more then, for an informal discussion about learning to fly with the RSGC, please contact Squadron Leader Alan Swan: alan. swan143@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.

You can also find more details on our website at: https://www.rafshawburygc.co.uk #rafgsa #gliding #raf_shawbury #raf_cosford.

R22 with RSGC’s Sgt Liam Riley flying behind the low rock system of Le Gache

At 9,500ft on the Pic du Bure

Instructors Sqn Ldr Mark williams (Front) and RSGC’s Ian Gallacher

Below: Sgt Liam Riley on the launch point with Navy Gliding Instructor WO Jamie Steel

RSGC’s R22 over Mountain Le Gache (4450ft) looking South towards Sisteron town with the Army Gliding Associations ASK21 A12

Restoration of Bloodhound MKII Launch Control Post and Type 86 Radar

A project undertaken by the Bloodhound Missile Preservation Group

Bloodhound MKII was a medium to long range Surface to Air Missile System (SAM) and an important component of the layered air defence system in the UK at the end of the Cold War. In service from1964 Bloodhound MKII was deployed by the RAF to defend UK assets at home and abroad. Bloodhound MKII was also purchased by several countries, a significant defence product for the UK.

Developed by BAC and Ferranti, BAC designed and manufactured the missile and launcher while Ferranti developed and manufactured all the electronic systems in the missile, Launch Control Post (LCP) and Type 86 radar.

Bloodhound MKII was withdrawn in 1991 with operational squadrons being disbanded as the Cold War came to an end. As with other military equipment of significance Bloodhound MKII equipment found its way into museums and with private collectors. In 1991 the RAF donated a complete Bloodhound section to the RAF Museum at Cosford and the Imperial War Museum at Duxford, each with one missile, rather than the usual eight deployed in a missile section. Individual Bloodhound MKII missiles can now be found on public display at various museums, these missiles being a mix of operational and dummy handling missiles.

Over many years the LCP and Type 86 radar donated to the RAF Museum and IWM Duxford as part of the Bloodhound MKII sections became derelict. Museums generally consider the Bloodhound MKII missile to be more appealing to the public and tend to be looked after. It is against this background that a private initiative was taken to preserve a Bloodhound MKII Launch Control Post (LCP) and

Type 86 radar following their disposal by the RAF Museum.

Why? Firstly, they were an important part of the RAF’s Cold War heritage and secondly, they contained the latest developments in military electronics and computers from the 1960’s onwards.

Restoration of the LCP commenced in 2011 and was

undertaken by ex RAF technicians and Ferranti engineers, all having experience of the Bloodhound MKII system. A restoration that would not have been possible without committed individuals and several commercial organisations. The restoration of the Type 86 radar commenced in 2012.

The accompanying photographs show before and after restoration: Why carry out such a restoration?

The LCP lay abandoned for twenty years with no power, exposed to the elements and vandalised. The before photograph of the display console shows that the top switch panel and engagement controllers’ keyboard and tracker ball are missing, was this restoration a ‘mission impossible’? Fortunately, optimism prevailed, and the skills of the restoration team made it happen.

Operational Bloodhound MKII Missiles - RAF Wildenrath (1981)

Launch Control Post (LCP)

The focus of the restoration was to fully restore the Bloodhound MKII engagement controller’s simulator. Originally the simulator was self-contained but in 1985 the simulator was incorporated into operational LCPs, the mode of operation being a key switch on the display console. Restoring the LCP’s computer and display systems restored the engagement simulator, a major undertaking with many challenges. All electronic assemblies and power supplies had to be repaired and tested before any attempt at switching on the simulator could be made.

The motivation is to preserve one good example of a Bloodhound MKII section for future generations. The technical significance was also important as the Bloodhound MKII LCP was designed using leading electronic technology in the early 1960’s, a digital computer (Ferranti’s Argus 200) and germanium transistors. The technology used did evolve over the years that Bloodhound MKII was in service. The four digitally created displays in the console were installed as part of a major upgrade to the system carried out from 1985, the Argus 200 being replaced by the more powerful Argus 700.

Recently the LCP and Type 86 radar were moved to the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum at Neatishead in Norfolk. Here they are on public display along with the museum’s Bloodhound MKII missile. The engagement simulator remains operational and will demonstrate to visitors how Bloodhound MKII would have engaged targets towards the end of the Cold War.

Web Site: http://www.bmpg.org.uk/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_G00gyq95Q (Mk2A LCP Walk Through)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Xl1By8vh3k (LCP Control Console)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0Z9TBa9PzI (Simulated Bloodhound Engagement)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOBEa5QyZ4I (Introduction to Counter Measures)

Restoration Blog

https://bmpg.wordpress.com/

P Harry BMPG

Type 86 Radar

Engagement Display Console (LCP)

RAF Air Defence Museum, Neatishead - Bloodhound MKII missile and LCP in the background

COSFORD KART CLUB RACE REPORT

Round 1 - 2023

With all that has happened with the Kart Club over the last few months, the idea of getting 5 Kart teams and support crew (20 personnel) to the First round seemed like madness, but we did it!

Prep. The preparation was rather more difficult this year. The Club has a new management team due to my and WO Andy Matthews’ departure from the Service, Chief Tech Tiff Matthews-Watchus as the new Chair and FS Matt Dilks as the OIC. They have worked tirelessly to move the Club, make plans for the Club’s future infrastructure arrangements and plan for the race season. Our novices had much to learn about kart assembly, preparation, scrutineering and meeting safety regulations, and we had so little time to mentor them. However, on the night before departure we were convinced, that we were ready with Tiff preparing chalks in 4 locations for the load carrying vehicles.

The Circuit. Clay Pigeon circuit lies just south of Yeovil atop a hill. The circuit is fast and flowing. We know from previous visits how to set the karts up but changing conditions, dry to wet makes that all the more difficult. Fortunately, I arrived early to ensure that we captured a secluded and sheltered area to site our encampment to protect it from the expected weather.

Learning the Track in the Conditions. And so to Friday, when official practice opened under Sports Directorate authorised MSUK permit

regulations. Our nervous novices made their way onto the track in wet conditions and drove superbly doing all that they were briefed to do. To be fair to all the drivers, of which there were some 150 plus spread across 59 endurance kart teams, there were very few incidents on practice day. Later in the afternoon the conditions improved allowing everyone to experience just how fast this circuit is in the dry! The thought of making engineering changes to the karts other than superficial adjustments was quashed when we briefed, “The greatest gain you will make today is just learning to drive in the changing conditions”. With practice day finished, Tiff carried out pit lane training for the next day followed by kart scrutineering and a welcome rest before the literal storm. WO Andy Matthews, “our Welfare Officer” provided a marvellous evening meal and all settled down early ready for the big day. If they thought practice day was tiring . . . .

The Racing. Race day; race day preparation; and race day nerves. “Nervousness and anticipation is good. Be alert, stick to your lines and watch out for flags and

signals”. The 5 Cosford teams were due to race in races 1 and 2 of the 3 races. There are so many teams in the championship that they cannot all be on the track at the same time, hence the split of races to accommodate everyone.

Race 1. The weather forecast was not good, and so the wet and drizzly conditions were going to persist with worse to come. Into first qualifying of the day, our Kart 10 crashed on lap one! “Kart 10 is coming in!” and so it did for front end repairs mastered by Mr Mike Jones allowing it to start the race from the pit lane. To everyone’s surprise despite 39 karts rushing downhill to the first corner following the standing start, all rounded the first corner safely –that is a first for the first race of the season.

Race 2. When the rain did come, did our teams do as briefed, which was stay out until called in? NO!

Pit board man over headset to Tiff “Tiff I think we should start calling the Karts in for Tyre changes” Tiff to pit board man “Too late I have 4 Karts sat in front of me already”. Meanwhile, our Kart

14 discovered that they had the wrong size hubs fitted to their Wet front wheels, so they had a faff in the pit lane, while our kart 10 discovered that they had mismatched spare back wheels! It’s all in the preparation we say. All our teams made up positions from Qualifying, they all should be justifiably proud of their performance and positive attitude throughout the weekend.

Engineering. Other teams did not fare well on the engineering side of things; wheels came off, engines failed in the wet and one team made up of last year’s Cosford novices forgot to put air into their practice tyres, causing much embarrassment when the rain came. From a Cosford perspective, I am very proud of our trainees. “Engineering, engineering, engineering”, I said, “You cannot succeed if you have engineering issues on track.” Their pre-race preparation was faultless. Engineering should be our strength and this weekend it was. Life could be worse as a REME kart ended its race with a split chassis.

We have gathered a hard-core set of trainees that want to see our Kart Club come back and succeed. They have worked tirelessly under our guidance and thoroughly deserve the opportunity to show just how quickly they can learn new skills in an adventurous and hazardous sport.

Next Round 22nd April 2023 at Grampian Race Circuit, Boyndie, Scotland!

Liam Perry Sqn Ldr (Retd) MBE CEng MIET MRAeS MIExpE Kart Club Secretary and more

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COSFORD KART CLUB RACE REPORT

Round 2 of 7 - 2023

The Preparation. The trainees are getting used to preparing their karts ready for a race now but that is the easy part, if I and Mr Mike Jones can spot the errors made on their karts before they go on the track. Meanwhile, Chf Tech Tiff Matthews-Watchus took up the challenge of organising travel arrangements. I think the flight from Birmingham to Inverness was the easy part in retrospect once the final names were sealed. But as for road transport it was a case of on the bus and off the bus. Tiff is very persistent though and everything was like clockwork in the end; flexibility is a key component of planning after all.

Training. I provided a little training between races. This consisted of:

- Eleven new starters on the Kart Engineering Scholarship Scheme very much adding to drivers’ theoretical knowledge. By the way 4 trainees finished the scheme last week and received their certificates as you know.

- All racers were coached in further practical engineering skills by staff members.

- And once again thanks to SATCO and the Airfield Manager, we took those who had not driven competitively before out on the dispersal to test the karts to ensure all was fixed firmly. This gives novices very valuable experience to understand kart handling such as braking and turn-in.

Learning the Track. The good news for our drivers was that everyone was in the same boat, as no one had driven this track before. Walking the track made it obvious that care would be needed as going over kerbs would seriously damage kart running gear. One or 2 other

teams found this out to their cost. Also, following the apparent tyre tracks supposedly indicating the dry racing line would be foolhardy, as much of these markings were laid down by cars, not karts, that can benignly ignore the kerbs. There wasn’t much time for track walks, so our drivers had to pay attention to turn the spoken word into accurate action. They did remarkably well.

The Racing. To say that they enjoyed the racing would be an understatement. Kart 14 for example led out by AR Bradley Moles qualified 16th out of 33 on the grid. Oh, but he got a dreadful start and dropped back to 21st being unable to get to the inside line. This was partly caused by the lead kart not gridding up as instructed onto the long straight leaving karts nose to tail from the shortened start line up. However, this meant that our Kart

17 driven by AR Tom Stott, who got a flyer of a start in contrast and went from 24th to 19th on the first lap, would come to fight it out with kart 14 for many laps. I walked by the pit wall early in this race and was instantly drawn to watch this battle as I saw Tom Stott overtake Bradley Moles around the outside of 2 corners with some skill. They swapped positions many times. In the end in Race 1 our Kart 14 gained 3 positions, Kart 19 gained 10, Kart 10 gained 8, Kart 18 gained 4 but Kart 17 fell back to its start position with subsequent drivers. Race 2 was a similar story of skilful driving under difficult busy track conditions. Kart 19 gained 12 places, Kart 18 gained 6 places, Kart 10 gained 3, Kart 17 gained 1 and this time Kart 14 dropped back 2 places but still was the lead Cosford Kart finishing mid-pack at 19th.

Engineering. Looking back at the weekend, the only engineering issue not presented by other karts bumping ours was a head scratcher for Mark Harbon. During the Friday practice day his kart felt odd in both left- and right-hand corners. Fortunately, he cracked the problem when he discovered that one of his rear hubs was just loose enough for it to move under driving forces but seemed fixed when tested by hand in the paddock. Well done Mark and another check to add to the list. Just as he got over that frustration and hoping not to miss another practice session his teammate broke an engine starter cord while trying to get Mark out onto the track. Nevertheless, there were no latent failures

waiting to bite during the races. All this good engineering meant that our teams could spend more time on track – best result.

The Official RAFMSA Results. Our Kart 14 is now our leader in the individual championships being 18th out of 49 military teams entered. Kart 19 is 22nd. Kart 17 is 25th, Kart 18 is 32nd and kart 10 is 33rd. Not bad for novices. Meanwhile, in the interStation competition RAF Cosford is 5th behind Brize Norton, Waddington, the REME Corps and the Fleet Air Arm. Overall, we should be happy with the performance of those very new to the sport.

The Next Time. The next time just before the grant week, between 25 and 27 May, to the Rye House track near Harlow in Herts.

CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF’S (CAS) COMMENDATIONS AWARD CEREMONY

After many years of being held at RAF Northolt, the Chief of the Air Staff’s (CAS) Commendations Award Ceremony took place at RAF Cosford on Friday 28th April. In one of his final official duties as CAS before retiring from the Service, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston personally presented the commendations. Everyone, particularly the recipients and their loved ones, had an excellent day. Highlights were a display by the RAF Falcons, a flypast by BBMF and a display of ceremonial drill by the King’s Colour Squadron.

Cosford personnel provided planning for the event and support throughout the day. Congratulations to the CAS Commendation recipients and thank you to everyone involved who made the day such a huge success.

The winner of our recent photo competition is Mike Gaukwin and this fantatstic image is of Indian Mirages taxiing out for a Cobra Warrior exercise at RAF Waddington.

Congratulations Mike!

Photo Competition Winner www.rafmags.co.uk

SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL TRAINING

PED FLT CO’S CUP

The first event of the year was a mixed volleyball competition, combining both standard volleyball and seated volleyball in a tournament format. After a lot of digging and spiking the School of PT aced their way to the win, TDSO were second followed by the Stn Cdrs Select in 3rd and BSW in 4th.

The second CO’s Cup event and the most highly anticipated event in the CO’s Cup calendar was Wet & Wild taking place in the station swimming pool. The plans for this event had been a heavily guarded secret, so all participants nervously gathered as we filled the pool with equipment. The first race saw a mass treasure hunt for equipment, with No1. Radio School catching the elusive sliver snitch. Race 2 was a bit of a workout as teams competed in aqua jogging, then once recovered the real fun got under way. First was the carnage of the hand paddling kayak race, all participants started with high hopes, most quickly capsized! This was quickly followed by a fancy dress relay where teams collected random pool equipment at each end of the

pool and added the item of clothing to their ensemble, by the end each team looked rather fetching. The penultimate race was nice and simple, a float race with the last length having to include all members on board the giant float, after a lot of tactics talk, it all came down to technique. Finally, we had a water polo penalty shootout, 1 minute to score as many goals as possible, with some examples of outstanding and questionable goalkeeping. Either way what was guaranteed was that everyone had earned a rest after the event!

Overall, it was quite a close event, in joint 4th finished the Stn Cdr’s Select and BSW, in third No.1 RS, in second with a consistent performance throughout were TDSO and taking the win for the second time this year was the SofPT.

With the summer approaching the PEd Flt JNCO ATI will begin running regular AT interventions, consisting of Summer Mountaineering, Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, Canoeing, Kayaking and Paddleboarding. All dates will be released shortly and will operate on first come first served basis. If you require something more bespoke for your section, please

Also keep your eye out for what Minor and Major Expeds we will deliver throughout the upcoming year. As always there are plenty of Eagles and JSAT opportunities ranging from a multi-activity event in the Bavarian Alps, to wild camping and canoeing in Sweden, to sailing in UK waters.

contact Cpl Ryan Charles for further details.

PED FLT ADVENTURE TRAINING

PED FLT AT - COSFORD HR CLIMBING AFTERNOON

Human resources Centre 4 team attended Wolf Mountain activity centre for an afternoon of Force Development with Cpl Ryan Charles as the instructor. The session started with a warm up

on the bouldering walls, gradually progressing to some harder routes in order to get accustomed to making our way up the walls. Following this was the greater challenge of learning to create effective figure of eight knots, belaying safely and climbing up the larger walls. Testing our resolve as well as our physical resilience, we scaled each route and pushed ourselves physically in order to get to the top of some very challenging routes. In doing so, we also put our trust in each other, because our partners, who were doing the belaying would be in charge of our personal safety,

stopping us from falling should we lose our grip.

Overall it was a thoroughly enjoyable and physically taxing afternoon that allowed our team to participate in a group cohesion activity whilst also developing our physical prowess.

RAF COSFORD FIT FOR LIFE DAY

The 26th January was the RAF Cosford Fit for Life Day. Cpl Stones was the project officer for the delivery of the event, and he managed to get a wide variety of stationsport and wellbeing organisations to show case their deliverables. The day brings together a multidisciplinary of stakeholders who support Health and Wellbeing on station, with an aim to show case station personnel what activities are on offer, from Station sports clubs, dental facilities to model gaming club. Most popular on the day was the interactive displays, specifically the Ice Hockey penalty shoot-out and the Motor Clubs quadbike experience.

FS Huckins also used this day to run a Macmillan coffee morning so visitors to the event could have a cake and beverage refreshment break. Due to the significant foot fall and the excellent array of cakes the SofPT managed to raise a total of £700.07 for the charity.

Lasting 4 weeks, the Training Specialist Foundation Course (TSFC) Ph2 returned to residential training at the School of PT at RAF Cosford in Feb 23. The Ph2 course for new Personnel Training Officers covers topics such as Risk, Trg Governance, DSAT, Welfare Duty of Care and Defence Trainer Capability, in addition there is a further

week of residential training at RAF Cosford, exploring Coaching & Mentoring and a Specific Learning Differences workshop.

There are a number of deliverables expected of students during the course, from additional online training (DLE), a debate, weekly assignments, quizzes and a final summative exam via interview format. The course of

8 successfully met the required standard and graduated on 31 Mar 23, assuming their new roles across a variety of positions from Station Training Officer, OC PEd Flt, Assurance roles and SO3 Eagles. Feedback from the instructors and students has been extremely positive with the intent from the SofPT to keep this crucial professional training as a residential course.

NEW AND IMPROVED PTI VETTING

Training Delivery Flt moved closer to the resumption of Phase 2 PTI training, delivering a series of reengineered specialist interviews, identifying suitablecandidates for the PTI course starting October 23.

Following a year long pause in trade training intake the specialist interview, often called a vetting, was redesigned to test the qualities needed for the modern PTI, ensuring that potential candidates were suitable to absorb the revised 20.5 week Phase 2 PTI course.

The team analysed data from previous vetting’s and PTI courses as well as conducting a series of visits to RAF units, capturing all this in concise project reports. This allowed informed decisions to be made on the capabilities and characteristics needed for PTIs entering training and how to effectively test for this. This has resulted in a highly professional 1.5 day vetting that places greater emphasis cognitive skills and Junior NCO qualities such as teamwork, leadership and communication as well as considering the physical robustness expected of a budding PTI.

Applications are currently open for PTI courses beyond October 23. If you would like more information contact FS Sean O’Donnell, TDF, School of PT.

UPDATED TRAINING SPECIALIST FOUNDATION COURSE

ARCHERY CLUB

RAF Cosford has always had a strong connection with sport over the years and one in particular, has recently been revived. With the opening of the RAF Cosford Archery Club, members have been able to take part in this traditional sport just like some of the staff and Boy Entrants did during the 50’s.

As we can see from the article written by Fg Off Mitchell the enthusiasm of the club members then is not only emulated but possibly exceeded by the current crop of archers, although I can say that the accuracy of shooting has improved but…. only marginally. And luckily the first aid kit is always on hand for any mishaps!

I’m sure that once again Cosford will be known for its involvement in this prestigious sport for many years to come.

ARENA GAMES

The inaugural RAFTri Arena Games was held on the 22 Feb 23 at RAF Cosford.

The format of the day consisted of two qualifying rounds in heat one and two qualifying rounds in heat two, with distances of 120m swim, 3km bike and 800m run. But with the order of the events being varied in each round (swim-bike-run, run-swim-bike and bike-run-swim). Overall times were accumulated and the final was a staggered start depending on your accumulated time from the previous rounds making for an entertaining finish.

The event is being planned for the future and is one for all to try, RAF Cosford will remain the host for event due to the facilities and location. Sgt W Jackson will continue to lead as the Projo and continue to push the inclusiveness of triathlon across the RAF and military.

Athletes competed in a new exciting format which proved to be hugely popular with the athletes competing in it.