Honington Autumn 2023

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As I look over the articles in this latest edition of the Herald, I am genuinely struck by how busy our people have been over the last few months. Of course, I do hope the highlight was the absolutely superb Friends and Families Day. I would like to publicly thank everyone that was involved in organising and running the event, from the flying display, the Rock Olympics and the ground stands put on by 28 Regt RE, the RAF Regiment, our STEM ambassadors, the Heritage Centre and of course the charities we are so deeply linked with and proud to support and be supported by. I would also like to thank CO TSW for the loan of his ‘Dunk Tank’ – lots of money raised but certainly not my favourite pastime on a cloudy and coolish day…

The other notable articles include updates from our regular and reserve Resident Units, sporting endeavours - some of which have raised considerable charitable funds - to overseas participation in international exercises and the World Scout Jamboree. Closer to home we’ve had huge success in the Men’s Netball tournament, a number of medals won by our

Athletics Team, Sub Aqua Club events, personnel marching across Holland and our very own ESS General Manger, Mr Andy Stoneley raising money for SSAFA by running over 400km during the month of July. I’m sure you’ll agree that there are far too many photos of me handing out well deserved medals, awards, and commendations to our military and civilian personnel. But I am always particularly humbled by the dedication and commitment shown by our people, and it is a genuine privilege to be able to host Honours and Awards events and speak to the recipients and their families. I am a firm believer that being in the military is a team sport, and we can only do what is asked of us with the support of friends and loved ones.

Looking forward to the next few months I know that our Whole Force will continue to be just as busy as always and so I’m also conscious of the need for people to take time out. We introduced Well Being Wednesdays which are growing in popularity, and my aim is to ensure that growth continues. As the days get shorter and the temperature starts to drop we hope to host external speakers

on a Wednesday afternoon to encourage continuous professional development. I hope to see increased opening hours for the Station swimming pool, and with the continued support of ESS, we

I ’m sure you’ll agree that there are far too many photos of me handing out well deserved medals, awards, and commendations to our military and civilian personnel. But I am always particularly humbled by the dedication and commitment shown by our people, and it is a genuine privilege to be able to host Honours and Awards events and speak to the recipients and their families. I am a firm believer that being in the military is a team sport, and we can only do what is asked of us with the support of friends and loved ones.

will of course keep the Community Café open longer on a Wednesday afternoon, so that you and your team can enjoy a brew, a piece of cake and some time out from your place of work.

I do hope you have all managed to get some leave in over the summer and enjoy the limited British sunshine. As I write this foreword I was expecting cooler days, but typically now that the schools have opened for the new term and most people are back in work, the sun has reappeared and the temperature has increased.

THIS IS ME

by Paul Jackson – sometime

Just like many of you, I joined the Scouts when I was 6 years old. Unlike many of you, I have never left! I was a Beaver at 6, a Cub at 8, a Scout 10, an Explorer at 14 and since the age of 18 I’ve been a leader. I’ve been immensely lucky that being involved in Scouting has gave me some amazing opportunities as a young person and I’m very proud to do my best to give back as much as I can. I’ve spent countless nights camping across the UK over the past 27 years and travelled across Europe both as a young person and as a leader.

One of the most memorable experiences was attending the World Scout Jamboree in 2007. These are held every 4 years somewhere different around the world and bring together 40,000 scouts. In 2019 it was in the USA, 2015 in Japan, 2011 in Sweden and in 2007 I travelled to . . . Essex.

Over 2 years ago, I was selected to be the leader of Lincolnshire’s unit to attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree in South Korea. My fellow leaders and I selected 27 amazing young people aged 14-17 to attend and spent 18 months working them in to a tight knit group ready to face anything. They selected our unit’s name to honour our county’s eponymous sausage . . . The Lincolnshire Bangers!

Our first 4 nights in Seoul before we were due to go to the campsite

Bandmaster wearing another of his many hats.

were amazing. Seoul is an amazing vibrant city with a 2000 history. Just in our first few days before we went to the WSJ site we visited historic palaces, embassies, museums, war memorials, the DMZ, some amazing markets and a baseball game!

I’m sure many of you will have seen the in the news at the time, the Jamboree didn’t go as planned. We spent only 4 of the planned 12 nights on the campsite due to some major issues with the site combined with the added complication of an extreme heatwave and immense humidity resulting in ‘feels like’ temperatures of over 45c. When we returned to Seoul, a day later than most of the other British units, we were a little tired and bedraggled, but after a good wash, some sleep and a little time to reflect, we were ready to embrace the extra time we had been granted in the city. We had 9

more nights until we flew home. While in Seoul, the entire Jamboree site was evacuated but we did all get back together with all 45,000 attendees in Seoul for a closing ceremony and K-Pop concert. I’ve now seen 19 of K-Pops biggest artists; quite the experience!

It’s safe to say, if you’d ever like recommendations on what to do in Seoul; I’m your man!

Quite the experience is a phrase that sums up my 3 weeks away. It wasn’t what we expected. It had some peaks that were euphoric but some troughs that were tough to handle. We promised the young people the experience of a lifetime and that is undoubtedly what they had. It wasn’t what we expected, but we are Scouts, we were prepared and we did our best.

I’d highly recommend anyone with children to get them involved in Scouting and if you’re interested in leadership, there is no better place to develop those skills than with a group of young people. They won’t

do what you ask because they’re compelled to and they won’t hold back at telling you what they think but they will make you a better leader and when you get it right, you’ll see them having the time of their lives and developing in to strong and resilient young people and that is the greatest reward.

I’d like to finish with a big tank you to all who supported the World Scout Jamboree in any big or small way. It would not have been possible without you.

Images by Paul Jackson

THE BEAT GOES ON...

The new drum set freshly decorated with the King’s Coat of Arms

Bandmaster Paul Jackson had a very special delivery waiting for him on his return from the World Scout Jamboree with a brand-new drum set freshly decorated with the King’s Coat of Arms – possible the first delivery of such drums to be delivered to a military band. Ordered nearly 2 years ago, the drums are the very best available and will replace a set of many many years of age and use. Watch out and of course listen for them on parade soon at Bury St Edmunds on Battle of Britain Sunday Parade on Sunday 17 September this year.

RAF Honington

Voluntary band

Contact details: Tel: 07929 828 850 Email: paul.jackson112@mod. gov.uk

Rehearsal Night: Thursday 7.30pm to 9.30pm

How to Book/Join: Contact Voluntary Band Instructor https://www.facebook.com/ RAFHonVB

HOW THE RAF BENEVOLENT FUND SUPPORTED RAF HONINGTON IN 2022

The RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity, has released its 2022 Impact Report, highlighting how it has continued to support members of the RAF Family in 2022 through practical, emotional and financial support.

The Fund helped over 40,000 members of the RAF Family in 2022, including over 24,000 serving personnel and their families, and over 16,700 veterans and their families, with a huge 96% of beneficiaries saying the Fund improved their quality of life.

One way the Fund supported the RAF Community was through RAF Station grants, where over 10,000 people were helped, including RAF personnel and their families based in RAF Honington.

In 2022, RAF Honington were given a £12,302 grant for the Jnr Ranks Social Space / BBQ at SLAM blocks, and £500 towards Operation Christmas.

This year, the RAF Benevolent Fund has funded BenPlay and BenParenting activities worth £4,387, as well as a Families Day grant of £2,000.

Irene Greenwood, Welfare Programmes Manager at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “The grants the Fund provides RAF bases like Honington are crucial to ensure RAF families have the mental, financial and practical assistance they need. Some of the initiatives and events we have funded have allowed serving personnel and their families to come together and socialise with others, improving morale and mental health, and reducing isolation. We are thrilled that the Fund is able to make a difference.”

You can view the full Impact Report at: https://www.rafbf.org/about-us/ our-publications/impact-report

The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional, and practical assistance to serving and retired RAF personnel and their families. This includes grants to help with financial difficulty, free memberships for Headspace, Airplay youth clubs, and more.

Tour De Bases

We recently saw an enroute lunch break by Marcus Elliot and Dan Thompson on Day 6 of their marathon 7 Day Cycle Ride.

The 1000 Km ride started in Newquay and has visited all of the bases that Marcus’ Dad, Gaff, had served at in the UK as a RAF ‘Dog Handler’ and will end in Lincoln. Gaff passed away in 2022 and Dan lost his mother to cancer whilst serving in the Army in 2004. Their ‘Tour de Bases’ ride has a very much personal touch for both of them as they have been to locations whose names are long in the past as well as current ones such as RAF Honington on their longest day ride of 180 Km from Gt Dunmow to Peterborough.

Joining in the welcome were members of the RAF Police based

at Honington along with Station Commander, Wing Commander Hayward. Andrew Stoneley who recently completed his epic 450 Km run for SSAFA in July was also on hand to congratulate both and to provide them with some carb rich vitals at lunch to power them on the afternoon leg.

You can follow the story and how Marcus and Dan’s efforts are looking to raise £4000 for the charities Cancer Research UK, Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, and SSAFA in Instagram.

Andy Stoneley

ESS General Manager Extraordinare

The Venerable (Air Vice Marshal)

Doctor Giles Legood MBE KHC was a guest at an informal dinner in the Officers’ Mess recently where he surprised Claire Ruston of the Station Chaplaincy Team with the presentation of her Chaplain-inChief Commendation.

Claire has been a stalwart of the Chaplaincy Team at RAF Honington since 2007 and said ‘I have seen 21 Padres here at Honington and I have the best job on the station and this award is a reflection of the efforts of everyone I have worked with’.

Amassive congratulations to Andy Stonely who completed an epic charity run for SSAFA following a mere 31 Km jaunt around the local area. Finishing almost to the minute of his expected arrival back at Catering Headquarters, he was welcomed by Station Commander, Wing Commander Max Hayward and members of Catering Flight.

Running the equivalent of the days in the month of July in Km, he amassed over 400 km and

raised nearly £600 to benefit SSAFA yet still looked fresh as a daisy and ready for more – he put that down to a sneaky Lucozade at the Honington Green Lane shop! His recovery was aided by an arduous holiday in the Dubai sun with a few leg massages no doubt.

As ex-Army regular and now the ESS General Manager delivering catering across RAF Honington, his activity in aid of SSAFA was also to remember his ex-Royal Navy father-in-law who passed away in November 2022.

RAF Honington Sub-Aqua Club

It’s been a busy time for the Honington SubAqua Club, also known as ‘Buccaneer Divers’. Covid meant that all diving had to cease and interest in the club dwindled. But since we have emerged from lockdown, the committee have worked tirelessly to build the club back up and we now are the second biggest dive club in the RAF.

Buccaneer Divers is part of the British Sub-Aqua Club and offers a whole range of training and diving trips to cater for every level, from complete novice to experienced diver. We have our own instructors and kit that we are able to loan to members should they not have their own. We also have our own club house over at the old Fire Section where we meet on Wednesdays to deliver theory training, plan trips and talk all things diving over a brew. The Station very kindly allows us use of the swimming pool so that we can deliver pool training sessions before moving to open water. Although a British Sub-Aqua Club club, we welcome divers from other agencies and qualifications (such as PADI).

If you are interested in talking your first steps (breaths) underwater, the best place to start is with a ‘try dive’. No experience is necessary and after a short brief, our instructors will take you for session in the pool so that you can experience the

thrill of diving. All equipment is provided, and it will give you a taste of what to expect if you would like to start diving as a hobby. In June, the club ran a try dive session for 863 Thurston Sqn RAF Air Cadets. The session saw 22 cadets take to the water for the first time and some were born naturals. Diving is a sport which helps develops team work, trust, safety and resilience. All the cadets thoroughly enjoy the experience with some even being bitten by the bug and wanting to start their training with British Sub-Aqua Club.

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Sqn RAFAC Try Dive

As well as the usual theory training and pool sessions for the club members, we have

also been busy travelling the country to various dive sites to conduct open water training and build the experience of our divers. In July the club spent a weekend at Gildenburgh Water near Peterborough. Whilst the diving was great fun, the accommodation was, by RAF standards, a little on the ‘rustic’ side.

What’s that line about ‘RAF & 5* Hotels?’

In August, the club went to Stoney Cove in Leicestershire, which is a disused flooded quarry. The site has been running for years and they have sunk numerous bits and pieces in there for divers to explore, including a 40 tonne fishing trawler and a retired RAF Wessex helicopter. The underwater

visibility at these types of sites can vary from 1 to 6 metres so to test the divers, one of our instructors designed an underwater navigation exercise which saw the ‘buddy pairs’ navigate their way to each underwater feature using a compass. Now there is an old adage about ‘Officers and map reading’ but I am pleased to say that wasn’t true on this occasion. Even our illustrious OIC manged to find all the underwater targets despite having never done compass and bearing work before! As with all good diving days out, the session was finished in the pub over an orange juice (honest) and a well-earned bacon bap. Stories were swapped, dive log books updated and more laughs at tall tales of gigantic Pike, hiding in wreckage and scaring passing divers.

Post dive smiles at Stoney Cove

But it’s not just diving in dark and dingy lakes and quarries. The club has got lots planned for the future too with expeditions to the Farne Islands to dive with the seals and a trip to the Red Sea in 2024. Probably some of the best diving in the world. In May of this year the club ran a trip to dive in the warm, clear seas around Lanzarote. A distinct change from UK waters!

Buccaneer Divers continues to go from strength to strength. We are a friendly, open bunch who all share a passion for diving. If you would like to find out more about the underwater world, why not pop down to the club on a Wed evening to chat to some of our committee members and see about getting booked in for a try dive? The club is open to all MOD90 holders and civilians (subject to a club membership fee).

Nijmegen Marches 2023

The International Four Days Marches, or De 4 Daagse is the largest walking event in the world hosted by the beautiful city of Nijmegen in the Netherlands. It attracts around 45,000 participants every year, with 5,000 military personnel from across the world. The British Military Contingent consists of around 800 UK soldiers, sailors, aviators, UAS and cadets.

Although the destination is the goal, it is the journey of both the history of these marches and the participants that make the marches extra special. Starting back in 1904, a group of Dutch Army Sergeants decided to start the long walk in Breda. It became so popular that Queen Whilamena commissioned an official medal, known as the Vierdaagskruis in 1909.

Our story started in January with the first build up in April the necessary Walking and Road Marching Association qualifying event RAF Cosford where 700 participants from regulars to cadets and overseas visitors walk around the Shropshire countryside. This is likely the longest anyone has walked at this point and gives the chance to experience how to walk as a team, marching etiquette, rest stop admin practice, and the feeling of being in full MTP and boots for long periods of time.

After Cosford, the route to Nijmegen was now the focus and we travelled to Nijmegen with

the city already cloaked in flags, encouragement signs and even areas marked for seats for the wellwishers ready to cheer us on. On approach to Camp Humensoord, a couple of days before the event we were greeted by the iconic boots and helmet which is the entry point of Camp, just outside Nijmegen city centre.

We had a talk from previously serving Parachute Regiment and gave us some sobering thoughts on the sheer scale of WW2 Operation Market Garden and the impact it had on the area. The graves are looked after by local residents who pass the responsibility down from generation to generation, which is seen to be a great honour. On

the Sunday night, an impressive firework display signifies the official opening of the marches, with the festival in full swing.

With day one now upon us, we started as a team of 6 personnel from RAF Honington, RAF High Wycombe and RAF Brize Norton, then bolstered with 5 UAS to make up a team of 11. The 3 am wakeup call ready to march at 0400 was something to behold and Day 1 was filled with anticipation and excitement, and for our first-time marchers, a realisation on how big the event is. The crowds were in full force cheering us on as we first walked through the city, children handing out snacks and making friends with a wide range of participants set the amazing

tone for the week. Having crossed Nijmegen bridge just as the sun was rising, we passed beautiful green orchards, meadows and picturesque villages. Rest stops gave us plenty of chocolate bars, fruit and hot food which kept us going.

Day 2 is also known as Pink Wednesday when walkers and well-wishers join in wearing a pink item to show inclusivity for all. Taking us through the partying town of Wijchen, tens of thousands of people welcomed us, with the tradition of being handed an apple courtesy of the mayor. Day 2 is the day where some people drop out, and we lost a UAS team member which gave us the realisation that the heat can

creep up on you without notice.

Day 3, and another 0300 wake up call for the day of the Seven Sisters... the hills. Now tired and with blisters starting to present themselves, other aches and pains were now making an appearance but today was the best day for town parties which were vital to keeping us going. With random spurts of energy our team members were running around roundabouts and sing songs with the Danish and Swiss military teams and civilians joining in. The highlight of today was a few miles outside camp Humensoord, where a lovely family had a small stand with hotdogs and ice lollies, happily handing them out to us and wishing us good luck.

Day 4…now a 0200 wake up call to get the final day underway. At this point, we accepted the aches, pains and blisters, tiredness, but the day tested us both on a teamwork and personal level. There was more countryside rather than the partying towns we got to know. We entertained ourselves signing, playing brain games, and talking

to teams that we passed. The town of Cuijk in the afternoon was a welcoming sight as it the last major city before the finish.

The residents always know how to push you onwards with music, cheers and encouraging smiles. A massive stage with live music kept our heads up just as we crossed a pontoon bridge across the river Waal put down by the Dutch military. After this point, this is now the toughest stretch to Charlamagne field but as we approached, a burst of excitement ran through us. Team members boasted with pride receiving their medals and prepared for the biggest party along the route.

We formed up as a British military contingent (a couple hundred of us) to march the final 5km into the city centre. It is lined with roughly a million people who are handing out the Gladioli flower which signifies strength and a successful finish, it is a huge honour to receive.

Back at camp, the party continued in the international beer tent.

Participants were wearing their medals with pride, hobbling to the music, and congratulating each other, no matter what nation you are from.

Marching, sharing stories and swapping patches with participating military marching contingents from Germany, United States and Norway (to name a few) was an excellent opportunity to build upon friendships with our partner nations and the hosting Dutch military personnel were quick to provide advice and encouragement when waiting in line for a coffee in the early hours of the morning.

Language and other barriers were quickly broken, with cooperation and teamwork coming to the fore between all military personnel. It is a testament to the Nijmegen Marches that they can bring together a broad array of people from a variety of backgrounds to achieve a common goal. The Nijmegen Marches is truly a test of what the skills and strengths to be an aviator in today’s RAF.

Flt

Flt

Flt

RAF

Cpl

RAF Honington Team

Sqn Ldr James Collo

Lt Debbie Anderson

Lt Matt Green – Walking with RAF Coningsby

Lt Oliver Swindall

Brize Norton

Gemma Bloomfield

AS2 Stephen Boswell

RAF High Wycombe

Flt Lt Zachary Mead-Mason

Friends & Families Day 2023

A spectacular day enjoyed by over 2500 people from our own Station community and our close military charities including the RAF Benevolent Fund without whose very generous support and donation, much of the entertainment would not have been possible. Great to see Declan, Suzi and Lyn here to continue the good work.

Asuperb flying display thrilled everyone with the RAF Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon Display Team, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the RAF Tutor Display Team with several flythroughs wowing the crowds also. Central & East Region Air Cadets supported as ever to ensure a safe and above all day to remember with a static display from 611 Volunteer Gliding Squadron emphasising that Honington is now a flying station proper once again.

Good to have our other close military charities present including the stalwarts of the Thetford RAFA Branch led by Chairman Jon MacPherson and RBL from Bury St Edmunds and Suffolk, thank you Nigel Wolstenholme. Once again, the stalwarts of the SSAFA InService Committee were there to dish our popcorn and soft drinks.

Firm favourites on the day being the Dunk Tank which saw no end of voluntold execs taking the plunge some several times over.

The RAF Regiment annual Rock Olympics involving 1 Squadron, 34 Squadron and 62 (Kings Colour Squadron) was held throughout the day with 1 Sqn ultimately the winners after a strong performance in the final event the Tug of War (pictured left).

A huge team effort made the day possible with so many thanks and well dones deserved by the hard working project team that has set a very high bar to surpass in 2024.

Netball Success

The RAF Netball Association held its first ever Men’s Tournament at RAF Cosford this month.

RAF Honington selected 10 players to enter the Men’s Tournament where they won every match and took home the tournament trophy. The RAF Netball Association combined the event as a men’s trials, and all players from Honington were invited to second phase of Men’s Netball trials. RAF Honington now hold the 2023 Mixed and Men’s Interstation’s Tournament, wining every match both teams have played.

OIC for Station Netball Grace Feetham was thrilled at the Team’s success building on the earlier triumph in May when they were again unbeaten in all 5 matches.

Images Grace Feetham

Interested?

Training takes place 1700-1800 each Wednesday in the Gym.

RAF Honington Athletics Team

RAF Honington Athletics Team competed in the combined RAF and Civil Servant Athletics Championships held at Rockingham Triangle Athletics Stadium, Corby in July.

Comprising of 4 males and 2 females they managed to attain an impressive haul of 5 medals including 1 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze with the male team placing strongly at 4th place out of the 9 eligible teams. This was the first time competing in an Athletics competition for the

majority of the team which makes the results all the more promising for next season.

MEDALS BREAKDOWN:

Gold – Fg Off Shurley, Pole Vault

Silver – AS2 Thornton, 800m

Silver - AS2 Thornton, High Jump

Silver – Fg Off Tomlinson, Hammer Throw

Bronze – AS2 Kneller, 800m

Well done to all!

Left to right: Cpl Phillips (1,500m and 5km), AS2 Kneller (800m and Medley Relay), Fg Off Shurley (100m, 400m, High Jump, Pole Vault and Medley Relay), AS2 Thornton (400m, 800m, High Jump and Medley Relay) and Fg Off Walsh (Long Jump, Triple Jump, Javelin, 200m and Medley Relay). Not pictured is Fg Off Tomlinson (Shot Put, Discus and Hammer Throw).

Photo credit: Fg Off Shurley

RAF FORCE PROTECTION CENTRE

Members of Development Squadron were deployed to support 7 FP Wing including 1 Squadron RAF Regiment at Lulworth Camp at an activity on what future defence funding will produce as it embraces technology.

Personnel deployed from across Defence and delivered a multi-domain immersive experience showcasing military equipment and capabilities. Development Squadron was at the forefront of providing a suite of deployable communications systems, drones and targeting apparatus and included flying a drone whilst sharing the airspace with a Lightning F-35 as part of a complex and fast paced serial. The event culminated in a demonstration to leading defence and media agencies including Minister for the Armed Forces and Chiefs of the Defence Staff and General Staff Flight Lieutenant Abson took the exciting opportunity to attend the Indo-Pacific Unit Event and Engineering Summit and Exercise Silver Flag held at Andersen Air

Force Base, Guam. Now in its third year, the event involved attendees from Australia, Canada, US, Japan, Korea, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the UK. The exercise was hosted by 554th Red Horse Squadron who belong to the Contingency Response Group based at Andersen and specialise in setting up and recovering airfields after attack. The aim was to share experience with partner Nations civilian and military engineering teams and was largely focused on Rapid Airfield Damage Repair. Flight Lieutenant Abson was part of the C2 group with Officers and SNCOs from other Nations focusing on how to plan and conduct response and repairs. It was particularly interesting to learn how the US are conducting Agile Combat Employment.

Wider visits and activities:

* Flight Lieutenant Browning and Flight Sergeant Fisher from the Counter-Threats Team, visited the US Embassy in London to conduct Man-Portable Air Defence System awareness training to US/UK Policy and Security Networks.

* The Collective Training Squadron conducted Command and Staff

Training for 15 Squadron RAF Regt in the Synthetic-Complex Air Ground Environment.

* Sergeant Durrant, Corporals Beverley and Lumber completed fire training at South Wales Fire Rescue Service Training and Development centre in readiness to be called up to support Fire and Rescue Services across the UK in the event of industrial action.

Finally……..

Collective Training Squadron says, ‘au revoir’ to Commandant ‘J-B’ Borgeais, who returns to France at the end of his posting. Commandant Ouvrard has recently arrived to take over the role, which is one of two exchange postings that the Force Protection Centre has with fellow NATO members. Commandant Ouvrard has worked with the RAF previously during exercises such as VOLCANEX and GLOBAL EAGLE.

Photo courtesy of USAF

Photo courtesy of USAF

Photo courtesy of USAF

TRAINING WING

June saw 25 Trainee Gunners (TGs) from El Alamein Flt TG 5-22 celebrating their graduation after successfully completing the RAF Regiment Trainee Gunner course. The trainees are now poised to embark on their respective careers within the RAF Regiment, assigned to front line units including 1, 2, 15, 34, 51, and 63 Squadrons. Before moving to their new Squadrons they completed the newly introduced Field Gunners course.

In recent times, advanced training was delivered by the new units but due to Operational commitments, Training Wing have taken on the task of closing the ‘Trg Gap’ between Ph2 Trg and Operations.

The recently implemented Field Gunners Course was designed to ensure the new Gunners are equipped with a comprehensive skill set before joining their respective units and be ready for Operational deployments. The Field Gunners course encompasses a range of critical areas, including Defensive Tactics, General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) proficiency, advanced training in Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) warfare, and Communications. This holistic approach to training prepares the Gunners for the multifaceted challenges they may encounter in their roles within

the RAF Regiment. The course culminated in a rigorous 7-day exercise that tested the Gunner’s newly acquired skills. This final exercise allowed the gunners to demonstrate their aptitude in implementing and operating the GPMG, conduct advanced CBRN drills, and effectively use communications equipment in a

tactical environment.

Meiktila Flt, TG 1-23 deployed to Sennybridge during the month of July to conduct Ex Competent Patrol Member (CPM) & ALPHA.

The 10-day exercise assessed the TGs’ ability to operate in austere conditions as members of a section. Thanks to the outstanding

effort from the Cpls (in extremely wet conditions) 24 TGs were successful and are now classed as ‘Competent Patrol Members’, they will now advance confidently into MOD 2.

Meiktila have also embarked on a Flt charity event in support of the Centurion Fund. The Flt are collectively covering the distance between RAF Honington and Meiktila, Burma by means of running, TABing or swimming. A cheque will be presented to the Centurion Fund during TG 1-23 Graduation Day.

Holding Flight have continued with the rehabilitation of its injured TGs to enable them to return to mainstream training. Although progress can be slow, we have seen great results with 2 trainees returning to Meiktila just before block leave. The rest of holding flight have been honing their skills through refresher training in areas such as fieldcraft, weapons trg and orders. Staff have been hard at work planning Holding flights 1st major Ex due to take place in September. The flight is also looking forward to some FD at IWM Duxford in Aug 23.

Honours and Awards

The Station Commander recently held an Honours and Awards Ceremony. Congratulations to all recipients and big smiles on attending family members shows how proud we are all of them all.

Long Service and Good

Conduct Medal Clasp

Flight Sergeant Coupe

Flight Sergeant Floyd

Flight Sergeant Cooper

Long Service and Good

Conduct Medal

Sergeant Webb

Sergeant Justin

Operational Service Medals

Iraq and Syria with Clasp

Corporal Jex

Operational Service Medals

Iraq and Syria

Air Specialist 1 (T) Jones

Air Officer Global Enablement Commendation

Air Officer Global Enablement, Air Commodore Jamie Thompson was pleased to present Corporal Paine with his personal commendation in acknowledging his skill and dedication to the portrayal of Global Enablement.

Seen here receiving his award from the Station Commander.

Air Command Civil Service Long Service certificate

Everyone knows ‘Stig’ and for once he was momentarily speechless when the Station Commander recently presented him with an Air Command Civil Service Long Service certificate reflecting his 23 years of overall service both as a former member of the RAF Regiment, Station, and now supporting Defence Primary Health Care in the Regional Rehabilitation Unit at Honington.

1 Squadron RAF Regiment

2023 continues to be an extremely busy year for 1 Squadron RAF Regiment; all personnel continue to maintain extremely high readiness whilst concurrently deploying numerous personnel overseas. Despite these frequent deployments, the Squadron has continued to conduct several courses and training activities to maintain a wide range of expertise to ensure its ability to deploy at short notice. This has included specialist and niche capabilities such as the Anti-Tank cadre.

The summer period gave an opportunity to train and refresh basic skills during a field exercise at Barnham Training Area including fieldcraft, fundamentals of navigation, camouflage and concealment and methods of movement. The welcome return of the Squadron paramedic from overseas operations gave an essential injection of specialist knowledge to the training activities delivering lessons both to test and refresh Gunners advanced skills when dealing with casualties on the battlefield. The exercise culminated in a day of Section Battle Drills allowing potential junior commanders to hone their skills and techniques in demanding and challenging scenarios.

A Flight deployed to Lulworth Camp to conduct a tri-service capability and integration demonstration and provided force protection with dismounted foot patrols for a Forward Arming and Re-fuelling Point. The Gunners conducted find, fix and defeat actions against potential enemy in the area of operations that could pose a potential risk to RAF aircraft either on the ground or in the air. Simultaneously, members of the Royal Marines and Ranger Regiment conducted demonstrations within the Forward Arming and Re-fuelling Point. The project culminated in a visitors day when two RAF Chinooks landed with VIPs and Media and observed F35 activities at the Forward Arming

and Re-fuelling Point before OC A Flight briefed the visitors on the demonstration and explained command & control responsibilities required to enable the air operations. Officer Commanding A Flight commented ‘I have been massively impressed with the professionalism and bearing of the Gunners supporting this integration exercise. We were able to trial new equipment while observing the future capabilities of our partner services; an invaluable opportunity’.

1 Squadron RAF Regiment can now look forward to focussing on more collective training and continue to develop specialist skills before a deployment to RAF Akrotiri early next year.

No. 3 RAF Police (Reserve) Squadron

After months of buildup and planning, 8 – 18 July 23 saw RAF Police Regular and Reservists from 3 RAF Police (Reserve) Squadron and the wider RAF Police Reserve diaspora deploy to RAF Fairford to provide the RAF Security and Policing detachment at the Royal International Air Tattoo. Here they provided 24/7 security assurance and Policing functions for the both the RAF’s and International partners’ assets and personnel for the duration of the show. This year was made even more challenging than usual by the unseasonable bad weather, the likes of which the Royal International Air Tattoo had not experienced in many years!

Post Royal International Air Tattoo, as part of their Annual Continuous Training package Reservists from 3 RAF Police (Reserve) Squadron conducted a series of RAF Heritage and Ethos visits. This included Bentley Priory, the home of RAF Fighter Command during

Air Security Force Handover

July saw the Air Security Force HQ bidding a sad farewell to Wing Commander Victoria Clark and welcoming Wing Commander Dean Davies into the fold.

Victoria, the first female Deputy Provost Marshal, has been inspirational in the role of Deputy Provost Marshal (Operations) and Chief of Staff for the newly formed Air Security Force. The last 2 years have been incredibly challenging with Op PITTING,

Op POLAR BEAR, the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, plus the formation of a new Force (to name a few) but she took it all in her stride and still managed to find time to help with community projects. Good luck Victoria!

WW2 where they learnt about the Dowding System, the world’s first Integrated Air defence System, which was crucial to the successful defence of Britain in 1940.

Following on from this they visited the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage

Centre where they were able to get up close to their surviving Lancaster Just Jane and were humbled by the efforts of the museum to keep the memory of Bomber Command alive, and honour all of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

No. 1 (Tactical) Police and Security Squadron

Post Operation POLAR BEAR the RAF Honington based Flts of No. 1 (T)PSS have seen the high operational tempo continue throughout the summer, enabling operations and routine tasks globally by providing bespoke security to the Air Mobility Force.

Personnel who deployed on Op POLAR BEAR also travelled to RAF Brize Norton to speak to AOC 2 Gp about their experiences. The summer has also seen personnel provide support to the RAF Cosford Air show and continue to provide support to station output.

It has not been all work and no play. Personnel from the C and D Flt have taken part in representative sports including martial arts, football, rugby and volleyball. There has also been Force Development opportunities with a group taking

part in an afternoon of motocross at the station Motocross Club and another group travelling to the Imperial War Museum in London.

Members of the Squadron at both RAF Honington and RAF Brize Norton have also taken part in a charity event throughout the month of August with teams of ten seeking to walk a minimum of 285 miles per week. As well as raising money for Help For Heroes this event aimed to encourage personnel to remain active and aide in mental wellbeing.

2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regt

• Exercise EAGLE DEFENDER a night time training event using specialist visual equipment. This training further demonstrates the squadrons drive to enhance its capabilities in preparation to support and augment its regular counterparts when required on both Operations and Exercise, at any moment!

• EX LAKE BEAST a joint RAF Regiment reserve Adventure Training package, in the Lake District with the opportunities to take part in activities such as Mountain Biking, Standup Paddle Boarding, Hiking, Rock Climbing and Open Water Swimming.

• Exercise CUMBRIAN CHALLENGE raising money

for the charity “Walking with the Wounded” for the 6th consecutive year. The challenge consisted of ascending over 2,289m, travelling a distance of 31 km in an attempt to be the first team to finish the challenge and return to camp. The challenge took the teams over 6 hours to complete whilst tackling the adverse terrain.

Finally, congratulations go to

Jamie Gregory-MacDougall who has been promoted to Sergeant who has served as a Part-Time Reservist on the Squadron for over 15 years. Now the TAC Sergeant on B-Flt, his promotion reflects hard work, experience gained via various deployments and planned exercises, in addition to clearly demonstrating his knowledge and ability.

Ever keen for a bit of phys, 2623 RAuxAF Regiment Squadron have been out and about keeping themselves fit whilst raising money for charity and doing a bit of Gunner-type things too.

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