Lions Roar Summer 2024

PADRES PEACE

The official quarterly publication of Royal Air Force Benson

SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES

Articles for the Lion’s Roar should be submitted by email, written in Microsoft Word (preferably not the latest version format) and pictures should be sent as high quality original jpegs and attached as separate files, not embedded in the text or reduced in size.

Editor…

Lion's Roar

From the Publishing Team

PUBLISHER

Welcome to the 100th edition of the Lion‘s Roar.

What a privilege to be the Editor as we note this milestone in the history of the magazine. This will also mark Flt Lt Amy Dent’s last edition as part of the editorial team. Posted to pastures new, thank you for all your efforts whilst on the team and we wish you all the best on your next tour.

I’d also like to thank everyone who has submitted an article for this edition, it has been a hard decision selecting articles for this edition and which ones to save for future editions, but I do hope you enjoy our selection.

If you would like to submit your own article telling of the adventures within your Team, Section or Sqn, activities within the Station and wider local community, events past, present or future, these can be sent to BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@mod.gov.uk. 500-700 words is perfect, but we can consider shorter or longer articles. Please also minimise the use of acronyms or include them in full within articles.

A/FS Rachael Williams Lion’s Roar Editor

Lion’s Roar is published by Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL

Tel: 01536 334223

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Jayne Bailey

Tel: 01536 334219

Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk

DESIGNER Amanda Robinson

PRINTER Micropress

ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND FEATURES TO… A/FS Rachael Williams

Email: BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@ mod.gov.uk

DISCLAIMER:

This publication is copyright Lance Media Group Ltd and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Media Group Ltd. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Media Group Ltd cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministry of Defence. All images © UK MoD Crown Copyright 2016 unless otherwise stated.

We frame your photographs, prints, watercolours, oils, certificates, medals and needlework.

What do you want framing? Ask us, you may be surprised! We stock a large selection of frame mouldings and mountboard.

We also sell mirrors, ready made frames and framing accessories.

Opening Times Monday: closed

9.00 - 17:00 Wednesday: 9.00 - 17:00 Thursday: 9.00 - 17:00 9.00 - 17:00 Saturday: 9.00 - 13:00 Sunday: closed 10% forces discount offered on production of valid ID card or in uniform.

www.framingstudiodidcot.co.uk

framingstudiodidcot@aol.co.uk Facebook: The Framing Studio Didcot

Summer has finally arrived, and I hope you are all spending more time outside enjoying the sun!

Foreword

As I sit enjoying the sunshine, writing the foreword for the 100th edition of the Lion’s Roar, which is an absolute honour and privilege. I am grateful for the opportunity as it will be the ‘capstone’ of my 3-year tour at RAF Benson. Looking back though previous editions of this prestigious magazine, RAF Benson has been through significant change. Most notably, the global change in Puma HC Mk2 posture to Brunei and Cyprus but also locally with major enhancements in the facilities and clubs that are being offered to Service Personnel and their families. Sharland Hall, the new Community Garden and a top-of-the-line eSports facility – to

mention just a few. Hopefully you all fully agree that this progress has been impressive! And there is more positive change to come.

The Wittering Model will see a major change in the way Royal Air Force units are organised. Specifically, this will deliver a more effective and empowering command structure across, Joint Aviation Command, 2 Group, and RAF Benson. The new structure will improve the support and delivery functions that underpin the Next Generation Air Force. RAF Benson will see these changes as soon as September 2024 with formal financial transfer planned for April 2025. Hopefully many of you are aware of this change and what it means for you and

your family. If not, please read the information on the RAF Benson SharePoint site or come and drop in to one of the bespoke Wittering Model briefings in the Fray Suite. Finally, I want to say a huge thank you to all of you at RAF Benson. The last 3 years has been the best of my RAF Career to date, and it has been a privilege to work with so many talented and inspirational people. Good luck for the future as you transition towards the Wittering Model and next generation Royal Air Force.  I am confident you will enjoy this edition of the Lion’s Roar. Per ardua ad astra!

Wg Cdr Alex Hunter, OC Engineering & Logistics Wing

OIC/EDITOR

A/FS Rachael Williams 606 Sqn

DEPUTY EDITOR Flt Lt Amy Dent

28 Sqn

33 SQN REP Flt Lt Thomas Mullins

28 SQN REP AS1 Nicholas Simmons Ext: 7722

LS REP Post vacant

EXPEDITION AND SPORTS REP Post vacant

BSW REP Fg Off Emily Palmer

OPS WG REP Vacant

606 SQN REP Vacant

JHSS REP Capt Bertie Vickers

PHOTO AND IMAGERY REP AS1 Sam Dale Ext: 7265

CARTOONIST Fg Off Emily Palmer

COVER CREDIT AS1 Amy Lupton

Ex HOOKERS DAWN

AS1 James Page

Ex HOOKERS DAWN is a specialised training exercise which enables JHSS personnel to refine their helicopter handling expertise whilst honing fundamental soldiering skills. Supported by 28 Sqn from RAF Benson, the collaboration helped sharpen the Heli handling abilities of JHSS personnel and integrated some specialised Underslung Load training which exposed 28 Sqn aircrew to a greater variety of loads. Ex HOOKERS DAWN took place on the Nesscliffe training area in Shrewsbury, it is rough land dotted with woodblocks with sufficient cover for vehicle hides.

D-Day consisted of a short patrol through the local lands and the establishment of a FOB (Forward Operating Base). This enabled those exercising to prepare and organise for the demanding week they had ahead. The next day mission orders were delivered, and preparations were made for patrols to rig underslung loads for transportation to their designated location. The troops boarded onto awaiting chinooks and embarked on a brief flight, touching down meters from their objective. They advanced in formation towards the objective but were suddenly met with enemy contact. They pressed forward employing tactical manoeuvers revised in the days before to neutralise the hostile force and ultimately pushed forward to secure the objective.

In the following days the sections would tackle medical and helicopter landing site lessons, absorbing all the vital information which they will be required to use in tactical situations. As the day passed, they would begin the long patrol back to the main FOB, on route a simulated vehicle crash occurred and the training the troops had just received would be put into immediate practice, administering first aid and battle casualty drills. As casualties were being patched up the section came under enemy fire and swiftly formed a baseline. 1 Section then mobilised under the cover fire of 2 Section to manoeuvre and neutralise the enemy target with efficiency. With both scenarios passed, personnel would then return to the FOB where they were provided with the next set of orders.

The next mission was to rig loads and a JCAB forklift, giving JHSS personnel a chance to get under the disc and showcase their core Heli handling skills. One of the sections was sent forward to a location to prepare and wait for an incoming load, but on their arrival at the location they came under harsh enemy contact which resulted in the Section Commander becoming a casualty with the need to evacuate imminent. The team, now down to five personnel would be required to evacuate the casualty whilst ensuring no more were taken, pushing through the small wood line they found

themselves in a suitable field with a chinook soon in the vicinity. Smoke popped with the location secured and the chinook made its direct approach with an extremely quick touchdown, enabling

the remaining troops to finish an effective casualty evacuation out of the hostile location. With touchdown in a secure location the Exercise ended and our RTB (Return To Base) began.

Ex KUKRI WARRIOR

In March 2024, the First Battalion Royal Ghurkha Rifles deployed for the largest exercise 230 Sqn has supported since relocating to Brunei. Approximately 450 troops deployed to the Labi jungle training area for an arduous two-week exercise, named KUKRI WARRIOR.

The Pumas of 230 Sqn, based out of Medicina Lines, provided essential support to the exercise, including holding medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) cover 24 hours a day for the duration of the exercise. The Sqn also supported 1RGR with troop and equipment movement around the training area. The exercise was an opportunity for both the Battalion and 230 Sqn to work together on a scale not yet attempted. In order to assist the smooth operating, aircrew from 230 Sqn deployed with exercise control to act as Air Liaison Officers (ALOs), working closely with the troops on the ground to ensure aviation support was used to its fullest potential. Both ALOs were junior aircrew, including one holding officer who was on the Sqn whilst waiting to begin his Elementary Flying Training. Opportunities like this are uncommon for such junior aircrew and provide great benefit in improving aviation knowledge and cooperation with other services.

The greatest challenge involved was the moving of approximately 10 tonnes of essential equipment around the jungle using underslung

loads. This is a skill that has not routinely been required since the Pumas arrived in Brunei. The picking up of underslung loads from a jungle landing site had not been done by the Sqn before, but ably assisted by the experts from Tactical Supply Wing (TSW), 230 Sqn delivered beyond expectation.

Planning required multiple parties, including Sqn aircrew, ALOs, exercising troops and members of TSW on short timelines to fit within the Battalion planning cycles. TSW were fundamental to the success of the sorties by correctly and safely packaging each underslung load – weighing over 1 tonne each – and deploying to the jungle sites to attach them to the hovering aircraft. A total of seven underslung loads were moved by the squadron across two separate sorties. Each one containing crucial rations, ammunition, and defensive stores for the troops. Owing to the arduous terrain, such volumes of freight would otherwise not have been able to be delivered.

At the time, Brunei was experiencing historically low levels of rainfall which meant that the usually reliable water sources were no longer available. Each soldier requires 5 litres of water per day due to the heat and exertion experienced. At one stage troops were suffering from a depleted water supply. Fortunately, 230 Sqn were able to react at short notice to deliver over two tonnes of fresh

water to the most inaccessible part of the training area to enable the exercise to continue.

Through the support of all parties, all loads were delivered to the troops and the exercise was successfully completed. However, the exercise was not without incident. Alongside planned sorties, 230 Sqn was activated on two separate MEDEVAC activations. The Sqn held its usual 60-minute readiness throughout, meaning the crew are to be airborne within one hour of being activated. In both cases the aircraft was airborne within 30 minutes, enabled by Engineering and Ops staff, and particularly impressive given both casualties were sustained at night.

Both activations led to the safe recovery of the casualties

and served once again as a reminder of the dangers faced by soldiers training in the jungle. MEDEVAC is 230 Sqn’s primary role in Brunei and one that they continually train for. They are often the lifeline for multiple exercises held in the jungles of Brunei both day and night. The completion of Ex KUKRI WARRIOR marked another success for both 230 Sqn and 1RGR. 1RGR will now go on to plan and execute their next exercise: Ex ULU WARRIOR. This will be of even greater scale and include an enemy force for the Grenadier Guards and the Royal Marines. Once again 230 Sqn will be on hand to provide professional and effective support to their colleagues in Brunei.

Crews prepare for a night MEDEVAC response.

Troops await a resupply in the Jungle.

Puma delivers USL to a Jungle LP.

ALOs take part in Battalion Orders.

Ex VORTEX & NOCTEM WARRIOR

Cpl Conolly

JHSS annually deploys on Ex WCONUS situated in Southern California supporting 7 Sqn and 18 Sqn stationed at RAF Odiham.

Located at NAFEC El Centro, 7 members of Troop one and one MAOTL (Mobile Air Operations Team Leader) deployed to facilitate vital desert training. Specifically, this required the team to re-establish HLS (Helicopter Landing Sites) sites, facilitate USL (Underslung Load) operations and simulate troop recovery in desert conditions.

Upon arrival the team initially re-established all HLS sites required for USL operations. Driving through arduous desert conditions the team quickly adapted to their new environment, using GPS and grid references, they tackled the terrain to ensure selected sites were suitable to receive Chinook aircraft.

Deployed JHSS personnel then ensured that 7 Sqn and 18 Sqn achieved vital training objectives within desert conditions. Completing numerous USL serials during daylight hours and at night, the team would remain at the HLS until training objectives were completed. Coinciding with regular

operations JHSS personnel were invited by the USMC 1st Distribution Support Battalion stationed at Camp Pendleton to observe USL operations utilising their Osprey aircraft. This was a great insight into their rigging operations and team structure, and further solidified our relationship with our American hosts, who want us to visit their unit annually going forward to continue sharing our expertise.

Additionally, JHSS personnel facilitated troop recovery training during night operations, using buzzsaw and LMD (Light Mobile Digger) equipment whereby the aircraft would land approximately 1015 feet away from JHSS personnel simulating the retrieval of troops on operations and exercise.

During their downtime the team completed a Force Development visit to the USS Midway in San Diego and were fortunate enough to be at NAFEC El Centro during the annual air show to observe the Blue Angles display team.

84 Sqn

After a year spent carefully honing a variety of skills required to operate in Cyprus, 2024 looks set to be a busy year for 84 Squadron!

With the winter rains ending and temperatures steadily climbing, the closing week of April saw RESCUE 50 and 51 launch to fight a large fire that developed in the hills to the Northeast of Limassol. Whilst the Cypriot Forestry Department and Fire Service had many ground-based fire appliances on hand, the nature of the terrain made tackling the fire tricky and 84 Sqn were asked to bolster the aerial support being provided by a single fixed wing firefighter and a Cypriot police helicopter. The first Puma on scene, captained by the (once) dashing Flt Lt Micah Phillips, quickly settled into the pattern, liaising with the ground-based fire commander (callsign “IFESTOS”), picking up water from a nearby reservoir and dropping it where most needed. After two refuels and a crew change to expose more crews to the first fire of the season, the fight was joined by a second mighty Puma; by dusk over 60 tonnes of water had been dropped by 84 Sqn, and the inferno was brought under

control. After many months of training with the ‘Bambi bucket’, the entire squadron felt an enormous sense of satisfaction at the chance to successfully put their skills to good use!

Earlier in April the Squadron took part in ‘Exercise ARGONAUT’, a large multi-national Search and Rescue (SAR) exercise spearheaded by Cyprus’ Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) that combines air, sea and land units together to effect rescue and recovery operations within the Cypriot Area of Operations. Joining 38 other aircraft and over 800 personnel from nations including Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, France, the USA, Italy and Israel, 84 Sqn ably demonstrated their search skills by finding all of their allocated ‘survivors’ at sea in record time.

Continuing the theme of large exercises, 84 Sqn recently participated in a British Forces Cyprus (BFC) wide emergency response drill, dealing with a simulated bomb threat at Troodos Radar Station, a remote outstation, perched precariously atop the 6000-foot-high Mt Troodos. Getting an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team on location in a fraction of the time it would take to travel by road, the crew were then confronted with unexpected, simulated casualties, which were extracted to the nearest suitable

hospital. Whilst the scenario is hopefully unlikely, being able to quickly move people to the most suitable medical facility is essential for life saving operations, as demonstrated during a real emergency last year where the quick reactions of 84 Sqn undoubtedly saved an individual’s life.

Whilst continuing to hold readiness to tackle fires or provide emergency response, training continues apace to both maintain and develop new skills. One of those new skills is “deck winching”, where a winchman is lowered to the deck of a surface vessel to either deliver aid or effect a recovery of personnel from the deck. Whilst the degree of difficulty involved can vary greatly depending upon many

factors including the type of vessel (oil tanker all the way down to RIB!), sea state, ship structure etc, it’s a demanding discipline that requires close co-operation between the pilots, winch operator and winchman. With one full crew now fully trained, the rest of the squadron will follow soon. Amid all the training, some novel tasks also crop up. At the beginning of April, the RAF Falcons parachute display team took advantage of the favourable weather in Cyprus to conduct multiple training jumps over the Akrotiri sports fields, much to the delight of many of the children who were on half term and gathered to watch their display and landings.

Had the Falcons arrived six weeks earlier, they would have

84 Sqn Pumas conducting firefighting West of Limassol.

been met with a very different type of weather, namely a category three Tornado! No one knows what 84 Sqn (or indeed the courageous Sqn OC!) did to deserve it, but in the early hours of a dark and stormy night in February, the meteorological conditions required to form a tornado came together directly above OC84’s garden. Touching down just behind his swimming pool, it wreaked havoc across his garden, pulling apart a carefully constructed bar and uprooting a substantial tree, before cutting a swathe across Akrotiri in search of its next 84 Sqn target – our hangar! Whilst the damage to the hangar was unfortunately substantial, the aircraft thankfully remained unscathed. The engineers did sterling work ensuring they were flyable, and 84 Sqn was soon back to holding our customary 60-minute emergency response readiness state. Unfortunately, it means that our aircraft are now hangered across the other side of the airfield; as usual, the engineering team have taken it with good grace, resulting in zero disruption to the flying programme – after all, “a busy engineer is a happy engineer!”.

On the subject of engineers, three 84 Sqn personnel have just been presented with awards from the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards (WCMPC), with whom 84 Sqn are officially affiliated. During a visit to Cyprus and 84 Sqn in early May, Past Master of the WCMPC John Eaton presented Cpl Tom Hendleman, Cpl Declan Lee-Davis and AS1(T) Matt Deeley with certificates

and financial awards

All three awardees have displayed incredible initiative, commitment and drive, going above and beyond on multiple occasions to enable, often under trying circumstances like the tornado!

84 Sqn Pumas conducting firefighting West of Limassol.

Large Fire North of Limassol.

on behalf of the MPC charity for outstanding contributions to Squadron output.

FS Caven repairing the Tornado struck bar under the watchful eye of OC84.

Flt Lt Minns representing 84 Sqn at Ex ARGONAUT.

Iftar Event

AS1 Vada Kkathra & Cpl Faisal

On 19th March 2024 RAF Benson MT and RCDM Oxford hosted an Iftar event.

Working closely with the Station Padre and the Unit Engagement Officer, the purpose of organising the Iftar event at RAF Benson was to promote diversity and inclusion within the Unit. By breaking bread together in an evening of religious observance, the event aimed to help participants understand, empathise, and respect the differences in their beliefs. Additionally, the Iftar event sought to celebrate the diversity that defines each individual, creating an environment where all members feel valued and accepted regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. The event was a step towards fostering a culture of inclusivity and unity within the Unit.

The Iftar meal is significant during Ramadan as it is the meal that Muslims consume to break their fast at sunset. This meal holds great importance as it marks the end of a day of fasting from dawn until sunset, which is a key practice during the holy month of Ramadan. The Iftar meal is often shared with family,

friends, and the community, emphasising the values of unity, generosity, and compassion. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. Overall, the Iftar meal is a symbol of unity, community, and the shared experience of fasting and breaking bread together during the month of Ramadan.

In planning the Iftar event, we took on tasks such as booking the hall, arranging staff time off, and managing food and other costs. Despite challenges,

we successfully executed the event through effective teamwork and communication.

The impact of this event was overwhelmingly positive, boosting team morale and fostering a greater sense of cultural unity. Feedback from attendees was also positive, reinforcing the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion within our unit.

We hope to expand this initiative to include a wider range of sections in the future.

Cross Training

Between FebMar 2024, Royal Air Force Benson Police (RAFP) Flight hosted the largest joint agency training for South of Vale and White Horse, Thames Valley Police (TVP) Force which included each front-line response team within the TVP response remit, training 118 Police Constables, 25 Police Sgts, three Inspectors, and the Chief Inspector.

The RAF Police hosted the event utilising the airfield at RAF Benson to facilitate practical scenarios for both forces to test tactics, techniques, and procedures. The scenarios were set up in staged locations with props and actors to optimise the realistic element. The training days started with an RAFP brief on Military Police jurisdiction, Service Justice System processes

and RAF Police specialities. TVP presented a pretraining policy and legislation brief prior to the officers participating in training exercises. The training was conducted as a ‘Round Robin’ exercise whereby TVP Officers worked in response pairs, working through five hostile stop and search scenarios and one Vehicle Search lesson led by RAF Police. The day was concluded with a team building activity led by RAF Police to develop positive reinforcement whilst promoting resilience and team building. The scenarios consisted of typical response situations the officers may experience on a real-time call out such as; the possession of illegal substances including within a

motor vehicle and a public setting, offensive weapons in a public place, suspicious person and a person suffering from a mental health episode. These scenarios provided TVP officers with skills such as adaptability when dealing with different situations and judgemental assessment for the correct course of action and use of powers.

The vehicle search lesson was described as the most beneficial and enjoyable element to the training allowing RAF Police to teach TVP officers the most operationally effective methods to

conduct a search of a vehicle for items such as stolen goods, prohibited articles, unlawfully obtained stores, drugs, and psychoactive substances.

The joint training has been mutually beneficial for both TVP response officers and RAF Police, learning from each other and understanding each other’s vital role in policing RAF Benson and the local community.

Fg Off Craig Rudyk-Smith

Padres Peace

Padre Paul Stephens

Commemorative events will take place at various locations, including RAF Benson, providing an opportunity to pause and remember, with deep gratitude, the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in Operation Overlord.

As tens of thousands of Allied Forces steeled themselves for the Battle of Normandy, when the operation launched in the early hours of 6 June 1944, a stirring speech was broadcast by King George VI to inspire, comfort and rally the nation not only to survive, but to ‘win the final victory for the good cause’.

The King emphasized the need for courage, endurance, and a revival of spirit as they faced this critical moment and called for earnest, continuous, and widespread prayer.

The call to prayer that features heavily throughout the King’s Speech, is needed as much in our day and times as it was back then. As we continue to strive for all that makes for peace – in our own hearts, minds and homes and between nations and all peoples, may we pray and ask God that the words of the Psalmist will be fulfilled: ‘May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!’ (Psalm 29:11).

Here is the King’s full speech as delivered on D-Day:

“Four years ago, our Nation and Empire stood alone against an overwhelming enemy, with our backs to the wall. Tested as never before in our history, in God's providence we survived that test; the spirit of the people, resolute, dedicated, burned like a bright flame, lit surely from those unseen fires which nothing can quench.

Now once more a supreme test has to be faced. This time, the challenge is not to fight to survive but to fight to win the final victory for the good cause.

Once again what is demanded from us all is something more than courage and endurance; we need a revival of spirit, a new unconquerable resolve.

After nearly five years of toil and suffering, we must renew that crusading impulse on which we entered the war and met its darkest hour. We and our Allies are sure that our fight is against evil and for a world in which goodness and honour may be the foundation of the life of men in every land.

That we may be worthily matched with this new summons of destiny, I desire solemnly to call my people to prayer and dedication. We

are not unmindful of our own shortcomings, past and present. We shall ask not that God may do our will, but that we may be enabled to do the will of God: and we dare to believe that God has used our Nation and Empire as an instrument for fulfilling his high purpose.

I hope that throughout the present crisis of the liberation of Europe there may be offered up earnest, continuous and widespread prayer. We who remain in this land can most effectively enter into the sufferings of subjugated Europe by prayer, whereby we can fortify the determination of our sailors, soldiers and airmen who go forth to set the captives free.

The Queen joins with me in sending you this message. She well understands the anxieties and cares of our womenfolk at this time and she knows that many of them will find, as she does herself, fresh strength and comfort in such waiting upon God. She feels that many women will be glad in this way to keep vigil with their menfolk as they man the ships, storm the beaches and fill the skies.

At this historic moment surely not one of us is too busy, too young, or too old to play a part in a nationwide, perchance a worldwide, vigil of prayer as the great crusade sets forth. If from every place of worship, from home and factory, from men and women of all ages and many races and occupations, our intercessions rise, then, please God, both now and in a future not remote, the predictions of an ancient Psalm may be fulfilled:

‘The Lord will give strength unto his people: the Lord will give his people the blessing of peace.’"

Military Wives Choirs founding members

Mrs Ashleigh Bailey – Choir Lead

In 2022 Benson Military Wives Choir celebrated our 10th Birthday, with a party in the Officer’s Mess on Station for past and present members and some special guests.

Since this momentous occasion the choir has faced a lot of change and is constantly adapting to meet the needs of our members. Depending on work shifts, babysitters, partners being at home – as many members as possible meet weekly for rehearsals on station at RAF Benson.

Choir is a safe space for all women who are currently or have previously been impacted by their military connection, we are a unique form of welfare support for the female military community. As well as singing and performing at local and national events, members

within our choir have the opportunity to access an instant support group of similarly affected women. One of the most ingenious parts about a military wives choir is that all 75 choirs within our network of over 2,000 women, rehearse to the same core repertoire of songs. This enables those members who move for regular postings to be able to join a choir within their local area, and instantly be able to slot into rehearsals with ease whilst accessing the instant support group of members.

(Welcome to all)

Benson Military Wives Choir is open to any women with a military connection which currently impacts or has impacted their lives. We have members in a vast range of ages from 20’s to 70’s, also as a tri-Service organisation Benson is proud to currently have members with Air Force, Army, and naval connections. Our aim as a choir is to bring

women in our local military community closer together through singing. Whatever your connection be whether you are a wife, spouse, mother, sister, daughter, currently serving, veteran or even someone who works alongside the military such as a civil servant, Benson Military Wives Choir is open and ready to welcome you through our doors.

(Come and meet us)

Benson Military Wives Choir meet every Wednesday 19:00 - 21:00 in the Station church on RAF Benson. Come and try us out and get involved in the singing, laughter, and make lasting friendships to see you through your posting no matter how long you are stationed here for. Also for those ladies who are settled within our military community, give us a go it might just change your life.

(Benefits of choir)

OF BOARDING DIRECTORY SCHOOLS

THE NUMBER ONE BOARDING SCHOOLS DIRECTORY AIMED AT MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES

Military Wives Choirs

Mrs Ashleigh Bailey – Choir Lead

Benson Military Wives Choir held our Fundraiser Day on Saturday the 11th of May from 11am-3pm. This was the first time the choir has fundraised on this scale in this way, and the day turned out to be a roaring success. We were blessed with glorious weather and the continued support of our amazing community. The choir raised a total of £480.69 on the day, these funds will go towards the choirs monthly running costs and help keep Benson Military Wives Choir open so we can continue to provide welfare support to all women currently impacted by their military connection.

(What was on)

The choir held their Fundraising day at Sharland Hall on RAF Benson Station, we held a variety of activities throughout the day to raise money for the charity. These activities included a bouncy castle, ice cream van, chocolate and bottle tombola, cake sale, sponge throw, treasure trail, hook a duck, guess the mascots

name competition, guess how many sweets in the jar competition, the selling of MWC merchandise, facepainting, a colouring competition, a raffle and more. The tombola proved a massive hit completely selling out by 2pm, the raffle also proved very popular on the day.

the bar and facepainting children’s faces.

A huge special mention to the choirs’ husbands who tirelessly support us in our endeavours, in particular Kythe Rowbotham who sat for hours and let attendees of the day throw wet sponges at him. Not only did he endure multiple hits to the face, but he also done it all whilst wearing a lady’s choir t-shirt! So, a massive thank you to Kythe from the choir and the community for being such a good sport.

(Support from the community)

Benson Military Wives Choir received a fantastic amount of local support, from local businesses who donated prizes for our raffle. Many residents also gave up their time to help on the day from the loaning of a bouncy castle and sensory equipment free of charge, to serving hotdogs, running

Shop, as without their generous donations the choir would not have been able to achieve such a terrific amount of money. Benson Thrift Shop kindly donated face painting supplies, glitter tattoos and sweets, which meant the Choir could provide many fun activities for the public to enjoy on the day.

(Interested in joining?)

If you are interested in joining Benson Military Wives Choir, please contact us on benson@ militarywiveschoirs.org We are

(Thankyous)

We at Benson Military Wives Choir wish to thank everyone who showed up, offered support, and most importantly donated to our choir. We have far too many thank yous to include them all, but we would like to thank Benson Thrift

open to all women currently or who have been impacted by their military connection. We meet every Wednesday 19:0021:00 in the Station Church on RAF Benson.

*Pictures taken by Justyna Webb Photography who can be found on FaceBook.

Exercise RISING SUN

Twenty serving personnel from RAF Benson embarked on an exciting Force Development (FD) Exercise visiting several iconic locations within Japan, the land of the rising sun.

Our itinerary included four major Japanese cities; Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. Historically, throughout the ages, each city has held cultural, defensive and strategic significance for Japan. Under the guidance of Flt Lt Connor Boyes and Cpl James Havlin, the group examined how leadership, air power, cultural and the tactical lessons learned from historical events, such as the dropping of the world's first nuclear atomic bomb on Hiroshima, have impacted and shaped the current world we live in today. We engaged in a series of talks and discussions while visiting these sites, enabling us to delve into the historical era and draw parallels to presentday operations and their relevance to future activities.

The party arrived in Tokyo on a Sunday, 28 hours after setting off from RAF Benson but quickly set out to explore and familiarise themselves with the new surroundings, atmosphere and unique food & drink on offer in the vibrant city.

On our first day in Japan, we had the opportunity to walk round the beautiful surroundings of Ueno Park in the Taitō district of Tokyo. With the tranquil Japanese gardens and Tōeizan Kan'ei-ji Endon-in Tendai Shinto and Buddhist temple as his backdrop, Cpl Darryl Windridge described the cultural effects Shinto had on the Japanese public consciousness during the Second World War and how it contributed towards their combined effort during the Second World War.

We then set off to explore Benten-dō temple which lies on Benten Island at the centre of Shinobazu Pond on the southern end of Ueno Park. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten and this was where AS1 Shauna Atkinson went into detail about the history of the Shogun hierarchy in feudal Japan. Shauna eloquently described how it proved to be an effective chain of command, drawing comparisons to the modern-day rank structure within the UK Armed Forces.

The Shinobazu Pond sits within Ueno Park, a spacious public park located in the

Ueno section of Taitō and is a historically prominent Shitamachi feature often appearing in history and works of art. The park occupies the site of the former Kan'ei-ji, a temple closely associated with the Tokugawa shōguns, who had built it to guard Edo Castle against the northeast, a direction believed to be unlucky by traditional geomancy. The temple was destroyed during the Boshin War but subsequently rebuilt.

AS1 Harry Cull outlined the logistical constraints Japan faced during the expansion of

their Empire prior and during the Second World War and how they overcame their limitations of natural resources. After experiencing traditional Japanese style dining and struggling with the novelty of chopsticks for lunch we visited the British Embassy in Tokyo. Alas there were no Ferrero Rocher upon our reception, but we were really spoiled by Sqn Ldr Justice and the Embassy Staff giving us a very detailed brief on the current state of the country's military and political infrastructure and how Anglo Japanese relations have strengthened as we work together on the Global Combat

Air Programme (GCAP).  Tuesday saw us visit the Senso-Ji Temple located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo. It is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. Formerly associated with the Tendai sect of Buddhism, it became independent after World War II. It is dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion and is the most widely visited religious site in the world with over 30 million visitors annually. Adjacent to the temple is a fivestory pagoda, the Asakusa Shinto shrine, as well as many shops with traditional goods in the Nakamise-dōri. A quintessential Japanese shopping arcade serving souvenirs, top-class street food and irresistible snacks right by Sensoji Temple.  Cpl Tom Bartlett detailed how the US military utilised its airpower effectively in the pacific theatre during World

War II and how it still dominates within the region today.

After lunch we walked to the Chiyoda district of Tokyo where the Imperial Palace is located, where we were given a tour of the palace grounds. There are several buildings within a large park-like area and includes the Fukiage Palace where the Emperor has his living quarters. The main palace is where various state ceremonies and receptions take place, with administrative offices, museums and an archive.

While in the grounds of the Imperial Palace, AS1 Cherelle Smith described the fundamentals of the Japanese bushido code in the Second World War and how the bushido code might

to aid economic growth and development of the country. Thursday already and time was passing very fast. We took a visit to the Kinkaku-ji 'Golden Pavilion' Temple, officially named Rokuon-ji, which is a Zen Buddhist temple and is one of the most popular buildings in Kyoto, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It is designated as a National Special Historic Site and is one of 17 locations making up the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto which have World Heritage Status.

The site of Kinkaku-ji was originally a villa called Kitayama-dai, belonging to a powerful statesman, Saionji Kintsune. Kinkaku-ji's history

reflect the modern-day values and standards of the RAF.

AS1 Sam Dale described the factors which led to the fall of Singapore and the British surrendering to the Japanese. This was the largest British capitulation in military history despite the British holding an established stronghold and out numbering the Japanese.

Sgt Pete Evans identified how Japan went from being an ally to the West prior to the Second World War to a hostile enemy. He discussed how Japan was then transformed into a close ally following their submission to the allied western powers.

On Wednesday morning we caught the Shinkansen to Kyoto. The Shinkansen is colloquially known in English as the Bullet Train and is a network of high-speed railway lines in Japan. With maximum speeds of 200 mph it was initially built to connect distant Japanese regions with Tokyo

dates to 1397, when the villa was purchased from the Saionji family by shōgun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and transformed into the Kinkaku-ji complex. When Yoshimitsu died the building was converted into a Zen temple by his son, according to his wishes.

The name Kinkaku-ji is derived from the gold leaf that the pavilion is covered in. Gold

was an important addition to the pavilion because of its underlying meaning. The gold employed was intended to mitigate and purify any pollution or negative thoughts and feelings towards death. Other than the symbolic meaning behind the gold leaf, the Muromachi period heavily relied on visual excesses. With the

focus on the Golden Pavilion, the way that the structure is mainly covered in that material creates an impression that stands out because of the sunlight reflecting and the effect the reflection creates on the pond. After enjoying some traditional Japanese cuisine we made our way to the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine. Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine is the head shrine of the kami Inari, located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto. The shrine sits at the base of a mountain also named Inari which is 233 metres above sea level and includes trails up the mountain to many smaller shrines which take approximately 2 hours to walk up.

Inari was originally and remains primarily the kami of rice and agriculture, but merchants also worship Inari as the patron of business. Each of Fushimi Inari-taisha's roughly 10,000 torii were donated by Japanese businesses and

approximately 800 of these are set up in rows that give the fantastic impression of entering an endless red tunnel.

While on the 4 kilometre walk around the Torri shrines Sgt Joe Abraham-Eagle explained what lessons we can learn from the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and what would be the possible effect and impact the effect if nuclear weapons were to be used in Ukraine by Russia.

Some members of the group pushed on to complete the 4 kilometre walk around the Torii shrines while others explored the nearby bamboo forest.

On Friday we travelled to Osaka Castle. The castle and fortress are one of Japan's most famous landmarks and it played a major role in the unification of Japan during

stone foundation to protect its occupants from attackers. The main keep is surrounded by a series of moats and defensive fortifications. The castle has two, inner & outer moats. The inner castle moat lies within the castle grounds and consists of two types: a wet (northern-easterly) and dry (south-westerly). The outer moat meanwhile surrounds the entire castle premise, denotes the castle's outer limits, and consists of four individual water-filled sections, each representing a cardinal direction (North, East, South, West).

The castle grounds, which cover approximately 61,000 square metres (15 acres), contain thirteen structures that were denoted as "important culturalassets" by the Japanese government. While in the park AS1 Rhys Legg

the sixteenth century of the Azuchi-Momoyama period.

The main keep of Osaka Castle is situated on a plot of land roughly one square kilometre. It is built on two raised platforms of landfill supported by sheer walls of cut rock, each overlooking a moat. The keep is five stories on the outside and eight stories on the inside and built atop a tall

what could America have done to protect itself better and how it now conducts Navy airpower operations.

After visiting the Osaka International Peace Centre, which is located with the Osaka castle grounds, MACr Philip Goss spoke about and explained the three Non-Nuclear Principles and how they affect Japan's defence policy against a backdrop of increased threat from North Korea's nuclear capability.

WO Clare Mckune identified and evaluated how the use of atomic weapons at Hiroshima, Nagasaki and recently the nuclear disaster at Fukushima have affected Japan. Explaining how these events have changed Japan's relationship and feelings towards nuclear technology.

Miyajima, Japanese for "shrine island". This is because the island is so closely related to its key shrine, Itsukushima Shrine. Like the Torii gate, the shrine's main buildings are built over water.

Miyajima is a magical place and we got to the island in the late afternoon as the light was fading. In the evening the area becomes much quieter, peaceful and more tranquil. There are also wild deer on the island that have become very accustomed to people. In the day the deer wander around the same sites as the tourists, and in the evening, they sleep along the walking paths.

On Sunday we walked to Hiroshima Peace memorial Museum where Chf Tech Warren Burns posed the question

Later in the day members of the party took in the sights and enjoyed a refreshment at the Sky Lounge KUU Bar up Kyōto Tower. The steel tower is the tallest structure in Kyoto with its observation deck at 328 ft and its spire at 430 ft. The 800-ton tower stands atop a 9-story building, which houses a 3-star hotel and several restaurants. The entire complex stands opposite Kyōto Station.

took the opportunity to explain how the Japanese used airpower effectively during the Second World War which led onto a discussion on whether these tactics would still be effective in the pacific region today.

Cpl Jordan Anderson demonstrated the effectiveness of the attack by air on Pearl Harbour and what the ramifications were. Theorising

On Saturday we caught the Bullet train to Hiroshima. After arriving in Hiroshima, we took the ferry to Miyajima, a small island less than an hour outside the city in Hiroshima Bay. It is most famous for its giant Torii gate, which at high tide seems to float on the water. The sight is ranked as one of Japan's three best views.

While officially named Itsukushima, the island is more commonly referred to as

of whether the US lawfully followed the Just War theory and Jus ad bello protocol utilising the use of atomic weapons to end the Second World War and did the casualties inflicted merit the casualties prevented. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a memorial park in the centre of Hiroshima, Japan. It is dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack at the end of World War II, and to the memories of the bomb's 140,000 direct and indirect victims. The park is there in memory of the victims of the nuclear attack on August 6, 1945, in which the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. The location of Hiroshima

warfare shifted to those of the nuclear age and the adoption of Nuclear weapons. Discussing the ramifications on international politics.

AS1 Amy Dennis talked about the end of the cold war when there was a focus on disarmament and reduction of Nuclear Arsenals. As a group we discussed that recent years have seen the nuclear powers shift back to actively increasing their stockpiles of nuclear weapons.

During our walk through the peace park, we came across the memorial to Sadako Sasaki and the thousands of children who had died from the effects of the ongoing atomic bomb. The memorial is a statue of Sasaki holding a golden origami crane. At the

Peace Memorial Park was once the city's busiest downtown commercial and residential district. The park was built on an open field that was created by the explosion. Today there are a number of memorials and monuments, museums, and lecture halls, which draw over a million visitors annually. The purpose of the Peace Memorial Park is not only to memorialize the victims of the bombing, but also to perpetuate the memory of nuclear horrors and advocate world peace.

Cpl Becky Garbutt explained how the utilisation of atomic weapons on Hiroshima and Nagasaki changed and led to an increased reliance on airpower and the role airpower has played in modern conflicts.

AS1 Abi Maguire questioned and asked us to reflect on how the tactics from previous conventional

of age when the bomb was dropped and was severely irradiated. Subsequently, she was diagnosed with Acute Malignant Lymph Gland Leukaemia. Despite not being able to afford pain killers and the limited post war cancer care in Japan, she survived for another ten years. She is one of the most widely known Hibakusha — a Japanese term meaning "bombaffected person".

She is remembered for making over one thousand origami cranes while she was in hospital. Legend has it that completing this task would grant the folder a single wish. Sadako wished to get better and go home. During her time in the hospital, her condition progressively worsened. Around mid-October 1955, her left leg became swollen and turned purple. After her family urged her to eat something, Sadako requested tea on rice and remarked "It's tasty". She then thanked her family, those being her last words. With her family and friends around her, Sadako died aged 12 on the morning of October 25, 1955, at the Hiroshima Red Cross Hospital.

Cpl Ryan O'Loughlin explained how nuclear weapons have evolved since the Second World War compared to the weapons utilised at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and how the technology has changed and consequently, how the threat has changed.

AS1 Adam Pacey describe how Japan went from losing the Second World War to quickly becoming one of the most developed and technologically advanced countries post war with a booming economy.

It was now time to take the Bullet Train back to Tokyo and many of the group took the opportunity to take a few photos of Mount Fuji as we sped past at 200 mph.

Before flying home the following day everyone enjoyed one final day and evening in Tokyo, visiting and walking across the famous Shibuya Crossing sampling the delights of the local bars.

Exercise RISING SUN has provided an invaluable opportunity for RAF Benson personnel to gain a deeper understanding of the historical events that shaped Japan and the lessons learned from them. By examining the past, we have been given the opportunity to enhance our leadership skills, whilst improving on our knowledge of air power strategies, and tactical decision-making abilities, ensuring we are well-prepared for future challenges. History serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before and the importance of preserving and learning from those monumental events. By examining the past, we are better equipped to face the challenges of the future and uphold the values of the Royal Air Force.

A special mention to Flt Lt Connor Boyes; his enthusiasm, professionalism, and exceptional knowledge ensured the seamless execution of the exercise; and on behalf of all of the RAF Benson personnel involved, we'd like to thank him for his unparalleled efforts before, during and after the exercise.

foot of the statue is a plaque that reads: "This is our cry. This is our prayer. Peace in the world."

Sadako Sasaki was a Japanese girl who became a victim of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima by the United States. She was two years

Thames Valley Air Ambulance

Thames Valley Air Ambulance Celebrates 25 years with Big Birthday Bash. In 1999, Thames Valley Air Ambulance first took to the skies to treat patients in critical need.

Now, a quarter of a century and nearly 35,000 call outs later they are celebrating this milestone with a fun-filled family day for the whole community on Saturday 22nd June at Penn Estate in Buckinghamshire.

Amanda McLean, Chief Executive Officer at Thames Valley Air Ambulance said:

While Thames Valley Air Ambulance started out being based at White Waltham Airfield, RAF Benson has been its home for the last 17 years. You will have seen their crews flying overhead in their red helicopter G-TVLY. Being based here is vital to them being able to reach anywhere in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire within 15 minutes, allowing them to provide the urgent pre-hospital level care their patients require.

Their bond with RAF Benson runs deeper than it just being their base, their trustee Hamish Cormack was previously Station Commander for RAF Benson.

Their ‘Big Birthday Bash’ will include a variety of fun activities for both kids and adults to enjoy, from circus shows and workshops to special demonstrations from their crew plus plenty of delicious food and drink from local vendors, even their helicopter will be flying in for a visit.

“Both the care we deliver at the scene and the support we offer long afterwards are funded solely by our community. It’s your generous donations that have allowed us to be there for these 35,000 people in their time of need.” https://www.tvairambulance.org.uk/

Tickets start from £4 and all proceeds go to help Thames Valley Air Ambulance continue to be there for those in most need across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

TAKE COMMAND OF YOUR CAREER

You don’t have to be a civilian to gain civilian qualifications. With more than 200 qualifications and 400 modules to choose from, and the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world, the OU can improve your knowledge, progress your career and fill your downtime.

What’s stopping you?

TAKE CONTROL

HIVE

HIVE – The HIVE Information Officer, Mrs Janine AnstyBridges is situated between in the Community Centre where a warm welcome awaits you.

The RAF Benson HIVE Service supports the Chain of Command and tri-Service community through the provision of up to date and relevant information.

RAF HIVE Information Officer can provide an extensive range of information on relocation, local facilities, schools and further education, housing, healthcare facilities, employment and training

COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM

Community Support Officer

Meg Wickett

BEN-BSW-CDO@mod.gov.uk

Station Community Support Officer

WO Phil Withey

BEN-BSW-SCSO@mod.gov.uk

Padre 1

Rev (Sqn Ldr) Paul Stephens paul.stephens104@mod.gov.uk

Chaplaincy Clk

Mrs Sharon Waters sharon.waters934@mod.gov.uk

Stn Youth Worker

Hannah Wilson Hannah.Wilson@oneymca.org

Personal and Family

Support Worker

Deborah Wise

Deborah.wise@ssafa.org.uk

Personal and Family

Support Worker

Faye Grant Faye.grant@ssafa.org.uk

Welfare Administrator

Kathy Porat

Kathy.porat@ssafa.org.uk

opportunities. Information on future relocations is one of the key areas of information support and is available either in advance or on arrival at the receiving unit. RAF HIVE staff are also involved in providing Operational deployment support, including distributing deployment support resources. If you would like to contact me, please email BEN-BSW-HIO@ mod.gov.uk or call 01491 827213.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT WEEKLY PLANNER

Stn Church Morning Prayer every Mon – Fri 0830 – 0900

For more information email: BEN-BSW-Chaplaincy@ mod.gov.uk

Social Work Team Lead

Amy Suttling Amy.suttling@ssafa.org.uk

Social Work Regional Manager

Joanne Harper

Joanne.harper@ssafa.org.uk

WELCOME TO RAF BENSON GATHERING

Are you newly arrived into station and want to meet the Station Community Support Team? Why not pop along to the Common Room, right hand side of the Shuttleworth Mess for a free coffee and followed by a windscreen tour of the Station. Open to everyone.

The Community Support Team will be there every 1st Wednesday of every month from 1000 – 1130.

We look forward to meeting you all soon.

PLAYGROUPS

Little Cherubs

Structured Playgroup

Sessions run every Monday and Thursday morning from 0930 – 1130 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre.

Oxfordshire

Play Association

Sessions run every Tuesday 1000 -1200 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre and Saturdads runs every other Saturday.

For more information email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk

AIRPLAY GROUPS

Ben Club

Session run every Tuesday from 1615 – 1730 for children aged 5 – 8 years.

Inters Youth Club

Session runs every Tuesday 1800 – 2000 for children aged 12+

Airplay Juniors

Session runs every Wednesday from 1630 – 1800 for children aged 8 – 10 years.

Airplay Forum

Session runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 1930.

For more information regarding these groups, email: Hannah.Wilson@oneymca.org

SCOUTING GROUPS

Cubs

Group runs every Monday from 1830 -2000 for children aged 8 – 10.5 years.

Beavers

Group runs every Tuesday from 1800 – 1930 for children aged 6 – 8 years.

Scouts

Group runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 2030 for children aged 10.5 – 14 years.

Explorers

Group runs every Friday from 1900 – 2100 for children aged 14 – 18 years.

For more information about scouting, email: Raf-benson@ thameschilternscouts.org.uk

WEEKLY CLINICS

Mortgage Advice Clinic

Appointments held fortnightly on Thursdays with representatives of Lexion Financial Services.

Solicitor Clinic

Appointments held every alternate Wednesdays with Richard Rodway from the Head Partnership in Henley.

To book an appointment, please contact the HIVE Information Officer on Ext 7213 or email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk

GIRLGUIDING GROUPS

Rainbows – 1700 – 1815

Brownies – 1800 – 1930 Guides – 1800 – 1930 Groups runs every Thursday.

For more details email:

Rainbows: rafbensonrainbows@ hotmail.com

Brownies: RAFBensonBrownies@ btinternet.com

Guides: Rafbensonguides@ outlook.com

THRIFT SHOP

Monday – 0930 – 1130

Tuesday 0830 – 1030

Wednesday 0930 – 1130

First Saturday of every month – 1000 – 12-00

For more information email: Simon.Bird869@mod.gov.uk

Ceramics Club

Monday 1830 – 20.30, email: Jennifer.brown323@mod.gov.uk

Oxfordshire Mind

Tuesday 0830 – 1630 email: RAFBENSON@ oxfordshiremind.org.uk

BROGA

Tuesday - 1200 – 1300, Bookings through the Myzone App via the gym.

Military Wives Choir

Wednesday 1900 – 2045 Held in the church benson@militarywiveschoir.org

H145M.  ON MISSION TO  OUTPERFORM

Helping to keep the world a safer place, the H145M is a versatile and cost-effective multirole helicopter capable of taking on the most demanding operations. Offering exceptional power, range and payload, it can also be equipped with HForce, the latest-generation Airbus weapon system to provide outstanding targeting accuracy and ensure it’s always ready for action.