1 Sqn

With our deployment as the Resident Force Protection Squadron at RAF Akrotiri now ended, the Officers and Gunners of 1 Squadron look back over some highlights of a memorable tour.

With upcoming tasks fast approaching when we return to the UK, the Squadron expanded its training to include a full Joint Personnel Recovery exercise with the flights conducting practice run throughs and revision on how to safely approach and identify potentially downed allied personnel. This culminated with a blank exercise including several enemies in depth up a rather steep mountain side!. Most importantly the exercise opened the eyes of the newer members of the Squadron to another capability that 1 Squadron RAF Regiment can provide to the RAF.

The Gunners were also able to rehearse a flight battle drill with a Live Fire Tactical Training range under the sun at Pyla Ranges, somewhat different to Wales in March! A practice casualty evacuation added to the training benefit with a Griffin Helicopter provided by 84 Sqn from RAF Akrotiri. Unfortunately, the location of Pyla ranges being right next to the Mediterranean meant that one of the flight

attacks did have to be paused due to boats and a particularly brave sea kayaker entering the danger area! Thankfully, the vigilance of the sentries on duty ensured that the Gunners still achieved some much-appreciated training.

It wasn’t all work however, and thanks to the efforts of Flt Lt Woodley-Jones, 1 Squadron was able to use his Kayaking qualifications and get the Squadron personnel out on the water for some much-deserved Adventurous Training. After a quick safety demo, the groups enjoyed exploring around the southern edge of the Akrotiri peninsula and included some confidence building game. A much-enjoyed outing and one that will be remembered as a highlight of the tour for many.

Towards the end of the deployment, the Squadron also enjoyed a day’s Force Development. The cultural element of the day at the Kourion Ancient Greco-Roman Ruins was a stark contrast to the city of Nicosia and the border between the Greek and Turkish side of Cyprus to learn some history into the background of this split. At Kourion the Gunners saw some excellently preserved buildings and split into groups to give short presentations on each area of the ruins including the gladiator’s training building and a wealthy merchant’s home with a fantastic well survived mosaic floor. Arriving in Nicosia for lunch in the old town centre the groups then visited the old watch tower, which is now located on top of a H&M Store, to view the ‘Green Line’ separation zone that crosses the whole island and a quick lesson on the vast and interesting history of Cyprus!

It has been a memorable, enjoyable, and busy time for 1 Squadron over the previous months and the deployed Officers and Gunners are looking forward to getting back to the UK for some well-deserved leave!