The Eagle Autumn/Winter 2023

Finborough School

The best preparation for life

Finborough is an independent day and boarding school for children ages 2 to 18 located in the beautiful rolling Suffolk countryside.

Our recently renovated boarding house is a wonderful place to be, with great common rooms and spacious ensuite bedrooms. Our students make exceptional progress, learning in incredible facilities including our brand new Science and Art building with outstanding teachers. Boarders also have full access to our extensive grounds and sports facilities including our state-of-the-art gym, sports hall, all weather pitch and tennis courts. Our holistic approach builds great character to support perpetual learning and life success.

Our boarding family of staff and students would love to welcome you to their school home to share with you why Finborough is such a great place to live and learn.

From the Editor

Martin Kinsey Station Staff Officer

Welcome to this Autumn Edition of your Eagle, community Magazine.

Greetings to all… the seasonal weather has finally caught up after a long hot, sunniy-ish, Summer. The nights are drawing in and there is a definite nip in the morning air. With summer over, its time to look forward to Autumn and all the regular features and events that brings.. Halloween, Bonfire Night, Remembrance Sunday and of course Christmas parties and Mess Balls.

Now is the time to start preparing for the inevitable cold weather. Please do heed the advice provided by the NHS regarding seasonal respiratory illnesses (no one likes to use Covid these days).. there is a very clear uptick in the number of cases being reported and as regards property, the advice provided by Vivo for Single Living Accommodation users and Pinnacle for those in Service Families Accommodation. Please do report issues with heating and hot water supply early.

On the cover

The newly refinished Lynx Mk 7 with 30th Anniversary tail boom art.

Meet the Team

Editorial:

I hope those that attended the Families Day in August had a great time. Despite a very questionable start to the day with rain and a very low cloud base, reminiscent of 2022’s event, by mid-morning the rain cleared and cloud lifted such that we were treated to the full flying programme, commencing with a full display from the Red Arrows. There were a host of stands and activities put on by both commercial traders and Station staff and departments.. hopefully something for everyone. As the Event Organiser, I am extremely thankful to all that supported to maker the day’s event the best yet… the challenge is to improve upon it for 2024!

Submission to Editor deadlines for 2024:

Spring edition

Friday 1st March 2024

Summer edition

Friday 7th June 2024

Autumn edition

Friday 11th October 2024

HQ Wattisham Flying Station, Wattisham Airfield, IPSWICH, Suffolk IP7 7RA

Tel: 01449 728210

Email: martin.kinsey500@mod.gov.uk

Advertising by: Jayne Bailey

Tel: 01536 334219

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Commander’s Coin Award

For those in the Station Headquarters, you will have seen the fantastic embroidered Christmas cards that arrive every year. The intricate designs, meticulously embroidered are accompanied by a very personal note of support to all at the Station from a perhaps hitherto unknown local. No longer… we invited the card maker, Alison Buckles, to the Families Day ostensibly to have a look at an Apache, something Alison

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has wanted to do but had been unable to achieve through ill health. The Station Commander took the opportunity of

recognising Alison’s support throughout the years with the award of a prestigious, well deserved, Commander’s Coin.

Hadleigh United

Under 11’s

round off season with an Apache visit

Following a successful season and training, some of which was conducted on the Station, the team were treated with a visit

to see an Apache, up close and personal. The team is around 50% military children, all of whom live in Wattisham or Hadleigh.

Commander JHC visits

Comd JHC recently visited the Station. During his visit he made time to present a number of deserving awards. The images capture a few of them.

Tile 1 – ‘Scout’ takes it all in, Mr Jackson not looking amused with his dogs nonchalance.

SSgt (now WO2) Williamson receiving the JHC Commanders Team Award for on behalf of the WFS SFOC MSS Team.

Cpl Bloomfield, LCpl Christian, LCpl Sweeney and LCpl Salmon (Award recipients). Not present was Cpl Hasty and Cpl Caddy, who were part of the MSS team.

Maj Hitch briefs on the recent upgrades within the SFOC.

Viewing engineering work.

Team talk.

Shop floor briefing.

AROUND THE STATION

A loyal employee remembered

Kevin Sunderland was a stalwart employee at Wattisham for 25 years, latterly in the Junior Ranks Mess sadly passed away suddenly on 18 Sep 23. A well liked, hard working, team member, he will be missed by many. Our commiserations to his family and colleagues.

The New Cinelink Cinema

It is here finally! New to Wattisham Flying Station community centre is the Cinelink Cinema. From October, as part of our evergrowing community centre activity space, it is our pleasure to extend an invitation to all station personnel and their families to come and join us at our movie screenings every Wednesday evening and Sunday afternoon. This will be an enduring service and specific screening details will be published on a weekly basis, on all available information platforms. Please do come and join in, and enjoy our movies 6-8 weeks from their Cinema release date, free of charge. There will also be a limited selection of refreshments, including popcorn and candy floss available on sale for all to enjoy whilst sat in the comfort of the community centre’s main hall space. Look forward to seeing you there.

Refinishing the new Station Gate Guardian

The AHDSU were approached by the Station Staff Officer in January 2023 with a request to respray a Lynx Mk7 to celebrate the Army’s 30th anniversary of taking over Wattisham Airfield from the RAF in 1993.

An official request from the Apache DT to Leonardo Helicopters was raised to support the task which was subsequently agreed with a deadline to be ready for unveiling at the Station Families day in August.

The aircraft had been stored on the far side of the airfield for many years and was rather weather beaten. With the assistance of 7 Bn REME and North Weald airfield volunteers it arrived at the back of the Spray Bay having been washed on the 20th July. The paint finish was very faded on one side and covered in moss on the other.

The Main Rotor Blades and IR Exhaust ducts were removed and the aircraft was pushed back into the Spray facility. The airframe

contained a number of old birds’ nests and spider webs. Mr Frost-Smith and Mr Baxter set to work to restore the aircraft to its former glory with a slight twist to its paint scheme as requested by the SSO to commemorate 30 years of Army involvement with Wattisham Flying Station.

After a month of cleaning, rubbing down, masking up and spraying, the finished aircraft rolled out of the Spray Facility looking as good as new and with one day to go to the Station Families day on 24th August. The tailboom art had to be hand drawn from a picture of a previously painted aircraft which required many hours of careful masking, spraying and re-masking to achieve the end result. The 7 Bn REME team refitted the Main Rotor Blades and moved the aircraft across to the dispersal by Hangar 6 where it took pride of place ready to be admired by all.

Eventually the aircraft will take its place as the new Station Gate Guardian in place of the tired looking Gazelle which currently sits there. We await the next phone call from the SSO for another favour if the Gazelle needs a refresh, but don’t wait too long as we will be gone by the end of March next year.

STATION WELFARE DEPARTMENTS

3 Regiment AAC Welfare Team

UWO: Capt Joe Wilson

WO2: Meacher

4 Regiment AAC Welfare Team

UWO: UWO- Capt J Rees

UWWO: WO2 Minter T

7 Avn Bn REME Welfare Team

UWO: Capt G Burdon

WISC Centre manager: Clare Morrin 01449 728358

UWWO: WO1 Maycock D

WISC Receptionist

Nicole Durrant 01449 728621

You can speak to a member of the Welfare Team or make an appointment during office hours by calling 01449 728321 or using the QR code below. Scan code to complete questionnaire a member of the team will get in touch.

For urgent enquiries outside of normal working hours the Welfare Team can be contacted via the Wattisham Station Guardroom on 01449 728220. In the event of an emergency, the emergency

Office Number 01449 728421

Emergency Number 01449 728220

services should be contacted on 999 in the first instance.

To view the Welcome, Welfare and Local Area Information page please scan the QR code to the right:

Email Welfare4AAC@gmail.com

4 AAC Facebook Page

Office Number 01449 728721

Emergency Number 07976 176732

Email sevenwelfare@gmail.com 7REME-WELFARE@mod.gov.uk

Wattisham Information Support Centre open –

Monday – Thursday 08:30 - 17:00

Friday 08:30 – 13.30

Welfare Coord

Wattisham Flying Station Community Centre

The Community Centre is a thriving and busy hub with activities taking place for individuals and families of any age!

Come and Meet the Housing Officers

Lisa (Housing Estate Officer for Hadleigh) and Sue (Housing Officer for Wattisham) will be attending the 2nd Wednesday of each month at the weekly Coffee Mornings in the Wattisham Community Centre to answer any housing questions or queries you have. This is a great opportunity to chat through any of your concerns or issues. The group runs from 1100 – 1300 hrs. There will be coffee and cake. All welcome.

Please see the latest timetable for all activities taking place however here are just a few activities for your diaries. Please look for information at the Community Centre, Around housing locations and on the Facebook Pages.

Beth, your Community Development Support Worker

(CSDW) is based at the Community Centre two days a week on a Monday and Tuesday so please pop in to say hello. In addition to Toddlers Soft Play on a Monday morning, she has organised two further sessions on a Monday. Tea & Toast Warm Space and Family Fun Nights, consisting of fun activities for the whole family.

The Tuesday Coffee and Cake mornings is going strong and a good way to meet up with others and welcome new faces.

The Youth Clubs on Tuesday evenings is a must if you have bored children. To join Youth Club please contact Beth for enrolment details.

Events can take place during the week and weekends, subject to availability. If you have any questions, wish to book the Community Centre for parties, meetings, training, clubs, please contact Nicole 01449 728621, Skype 0300 1562852 or Clare on 01449 728358 Skype on 0300 163 0986.

Wattisham Information & Support Centre (WISC)

Autumn is now upon us. Here in the Welfare Department, it is business as usual as we provide advice and support to personnel and families. Appointments can be made by contacting your relevant welfare team by QR Code, phone or email (please view the welfare details page in this magazine for these details) Alternatively, you can just pop into the welfare reception where we will assist you with your queries. We would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Nicole to our team, who is our new

receptionist. She will be more than happy to assist you with any queries you may have.

Wednesday mornings, we also operate from Hadleigh House, located at 14 Leeks Close, Hadleigh, IP7 6GE. Doors open between 0900 – 1200 hrs. You’re most welcome to drop in, have a cuppa, chat and meet members of our welfare team (subject to availability).

Monday mornings at Hadleigh House, the charity Home Start runs children’s activities and a coffee morning for military families. It’s free, so please

pop along from 0915 – 1115 hrs. No booking required.

HIVE is currently vacant therefore, any if anyone requires information regarding WFS and local areas, please pop into

welfare and see Clare or give her a call on 01449 728358 or email clare.morrin100@mod.gov.uk.

For information on running an event and general queries, please contact Clare.

Station’s Family’s day

24 August 2023

Commanding Officer: Lt Col R Simcock AAC-

Second in Command: Maj B Johnson AAC

Adjutant: Capt R Roberts AAC

Regimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) R Davison AAC

REME Plymouth Ju Jitsu Training Camp

After a long drive from Wattisham to Plymouth our 11 man group arrived at the Citadel, home to 29 Commando Artillery and situated right on the coast. A short walk from the The Barbican Port and its beautiful pubs and restaurants, it was a stunning location (when it finally stopped raining!) and only a 20 minute drive from where we would be training for the week.

Having never done Ju Jitsu before my expectation was that it would be a very traditionally run martial art that would be heavily focused on learning through specific types of rehearsed sequences called Katas. Upon starting it was clear that it was steeped in tradition, however Chris our main instructor for the week who had taught many a Marine and Police Officer before, was very keen to ensure his teachings placed the most emphasis on getting stuck in applying the techniques.

Chris expertly shaped our anticipated military enthusiasm and generated a syllabus for the week that focused on important but widely applicable throws, combinations and holds meaning that everyone came away with a firm understanding of the fundamentals of Ju Jitsu. Having previously had some experience of martial arts the privilege of a small instructor to student ratio was fantastic, allowing for frequent one on one coaching which is extremely rare in normal club environments.

For myself this was particularly useful as I had struggled to grasp the best way to execute a wrist lock, which after 10 minutes of step by step coaching I was quickly able to pick up. The key take away for myself was the emphasis placed on the requirement to be flexible and rapidly adapt your techniques. When your opponent has a say outside of drills and your throw, shoulder or wrist lock wouldn’t work you had to move straight into your understood actions on in order to maintain momentum and still control your opponent – a mindset absolutely crucial to military actions from tactical through to strategic.

Overall the week was absolutely fantastic, with Chris and his team helping teach and solidify the important basics of Ju Jitsu. An absolute privilege to attend, I thoroughly recommend any one able should join the regularly run Martial Arts sessions at Wattisham, whether seeking to boost self confidence or to learn self defence, either way it’s fantastic phys!

Maxwell Gooch, Army Air Corps.

Ex PINION TITAN

Ex PINION TITAN was the Aviation Battlegroup Validation Exercise for 1 Aviation Brigade Combat Team (BCT) in support of 3 (UK) Division’s Ex IRON TITAN.

It took place between 11th September and 6th October 2023.

The exercise was performed to test the warfighting capability of Attack Helicopter (AH) and Reconnaissance Helicopter (RH) platforms as well to test the planning and execution cycles of the 3 Regimental Army Air Corps Battle Group (3AAC BG). It saw the continued involvement of the newly introduced Apache AH-64E alongside the Wildcat AW159; this is the maiden exercise carried out at a divisional level with these airframes working alongside each other.

Not only did EX PINION TITAN challenge 3AAC BG ability to conduct FIND, STRIKE and DESTROY missions, it also tested the capability to undertake long road moves, survivability in a diverse range of tactical scenarios such as interacting with civilian population, or even in cases extreme as a CBRN attack.

The exercise was a joint effort between 663 Squadron and 669 Squadron of 3 AAC alongside 659 Squadron of 1 AAC. Within this included a whole host of supporting attached elements ranging from Clerks, Aircraft and Vehicle Mechanics to Medical support.

As a part of 669 Squadron’s Command Troop, we departed Wattisham Flying Station for Nesscliffe Camp in Shropshire where we would spend the first 2 weeks of the exercise assisting the culmination of Ex COBRA WARRIOR 23-2 which involved over 50 aircraft from 6 allied countries. This was an opportunity to give our survivability full attention, and to enhance our readiness to perform at a higher standard for the validation phase. During our time spent in this location, I was fortunate enough to be challenged with interacting

with civilian population who were impacted and effected by the aftermath of the ongoing scenario. I found this beneficial because the civilians in question could not speak English so we were able to experience communicating through an interpreter, something which will happen in a live theatre.

Following our time in Nesscliffe, we collapsed the BG HQ and conducted the over 200-mile road move to RMB Chivenor, North Devon. This was a coordinated effort to make sure our vehicles were serviceable to be driven legally and safely. Upon arrival, because Ex PINION TITAN had officially commenced a mere 4 days prior to the move, all workforce was utilised to re-establish the HQ in a timely manner to ensure it was fully operational to conduct missions and planning. This demonstrated the effective cohesion of all

parties involved as by that point, we were coming up to the 3-week mark meaning that fatigue was a factor going against us.

From a personal perspective, I enjoyed the challenges that this part of the exercise threw at me, as I had the opportunity to take part in my first execution of a mission, a fast paced and intense environment. This was amplified by the fact that, during the mission, we were contacted by smalls arms fire from enemy forces, and I had to provide real time reporting of our situation to Brigade HQ and the other Squadrons embedded in our Battlegroup.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the exercise as I was able to learn a lot and develop as both a soldier and an Aviation Communications Specialist. The opportunity to be a part of a wider Divisional exercise was exciting knowing that, what we saw on our terminals was happening in real time on Salisbury Plain Training Area.

A GSF view of Ex PINION TITAN

The GSF element deployed to Nesscliffe in a fleet of (mostly) new vehicles, an exciting development.

Once we arrived, we began the hard work of setting up the Squadron, ready to start flying. The groundcrew’s focus was ensuring the landing site was workable, and successfully dispersed the aircraft across a very large area. The signals had their work cut out setting up the CP tent deep in the woods, but successfully used camouflage to ensure it was entirely hidden from the air.

The next few weeks were spent supporting COBRA WARRIOR, which provided both challenges and opportunities. Operating in a dispersed location meant that everyone had to get comfortable with not being in constant contact with each other, even a simple message to someone who would normally work in the same

office or a quick phone call away could involve a journey of a few kilometres. We needed to become comfortable operating silently electronically to ensure our critical infrastructure can’t be detected by the enemy, relying on passing essential information and delivering robust orders so that the intent can always be understood. Several groundcrew and signallers flew in Wildcats to Otterburn to support the RAF’s Tactical Supply Wing, demonstrating their expertise refuelling Aircraft deployed hundreds of miles from the base location.

Week three saw the start of IRON TITAN, and 663 groundcrew deployed a FARP, which after 5 days of operations, had covered half the length and breadth of England. The FARP team combined 663, 659 and TSW together, providing an opportunity to learn from each other, and although incredibly hard work, every member of the team gave their all and demonstrated exactly how

capable a fully tactical FARP is. Camouflage, concealment and tactical movement are key skills that were honed, particularly challenging with a large convoy of vehicles. Those remaining at Nesscliffe likewise had their work cut out for them, yet consistently delivered four aircraft for tactical missions throughout.

The last week saw a move down to Eaglescott Airfield, which brought more challenges, not least the Devon weather. Once again, signallers and groundcrew proved themselves

to be supremely adaptable, successfully refuelling and launching aircraft, deconflicting with the Devon Air Ambulance also located on site, and even deploying out on a FARE to RAF Odiham (refuelling from the back of a chinook), an invaluable training opportunity. Returning to Wattisham, every member was absolutely shattered, but can be rightfully proud of what they achieved over the four weeks.

Lt Killian FitzGerald GSF Comd 663 Sqn

ARMY AIR CORPS

On September 12th 2023, 669 Squadron 3 Regiment Army Air Corps were among 8000 personnel to deploy on the British Army’s largest land exercise in over 20 years.

The preparation began months in advance, with hours and hours spent getting vehicles deployable, kit and equipment serviceable and soldiers fit to fight.

The first day consisted of a 182 mile convoy to Swynnerton, consisting of various vehicles such as Land Rovers, Battlefield Ambulance, SV, EPLS, Diesel UST, Oshkosh and CST Water/Diesel.

Upon arrival, the vehicles were swiftly hidden and camouflaged before we began a BCCS package. During these few days we continuously practised ITR’s such as Fieldcraft, CBRN, BCD, CPER’s, EOD and Communications. Honing and perfecting these skills, the drills prepared everyone for the challenging weeks to come.

After a few days we then moved location to Nesscliffe Training Area. While there we were under constant enemy threat of small arms fire, IDF, chemical attack, rioters and even drones! With technology constantly evolving, there is a need for all of us to also evolve and adapt. There is a very real threat from drones in today’s battlefield, this was made clear and explained on the exercise. We were taught new drills and actions on when spotting drones, whether that be on foot or while driving a vehicle.

The Squadrons’ main effort throughout the four weeks was to supply constant Distribution Points for 663 Squadron, 659 Squadron and the BG HQ, all at short notice to move and at any hour of the day.

The DP’s were essential for resupplying the Squadrons with

vital supplies and equipment so that the aircraft could still fly, vehicles could still drive and soldiers could not only survive but thrive. DP’s were conducted tactically at all times, sometimes at night in full darkness and in some cases while coming under contact.

All of this was under Scheme C Drivers Hours, testing us to new limits, proving every soldiers’ ability to complete the mission under extreme pressure, tiredness and fatigue.

We then moved location once again, travelling the length of the country down to Chivenor. Once we had established ourselves in our new location it was nonstop for the whole week, dealing with more CBRN threats, drones and enemy interactions. QRF was present 24/7 as well as multiple DP’s and taskings taking place. This heavy tempo stretched the Squadron, but despite the high work rate and intensity, all missions and taskings were completed to the highest standard.

On the final day we were tested with multiple scenarios, these included multiple casevacs, carrying out BCD on casualties, conducting section attacks, dealing with CPERs. This day culminated in finally coming under attack, in which the QRF reacted swifty and then eliminated the enemy without any casualties.

This Exercise was a validation to show the Regiment, wider Army, NATO and the rest of the world that 669 Squadron, 3AAC are more than ready to take on and hold high readiness. We stand ready to deploy anywhere in the world at short notice and carry out missions to the highest standard.

LCpl Dobb 669 Squadron

An ES look at

Exercise Pinion Titan

September saw the beginning of one of 663's first lengthier deployments back into the field, which gave the Squadron new opportunities and experience to successfully operate tactically and to be ready for the challenges of the modern battlefield, especially as we take on readiness in the new year.

Despite the challenges of dispersed operations, we still managed to fly 197 hours over the course of the four weeks, achieving our objective of providing aircrew with serviceable aircraft to undertake all of the planned missions.

For the first three weeks,

we were situated at Nesscliffe training area, Shrewsbury. This phase was tactical, we had to maximize our use of camouflage and concealment on vehicles and harbour area, limiting our electronic emissions and dispersing the aircraft around the area, to present lots of smaller

targets and reduce catastrophic damage from enemy artillery.

The ES platoon was divided into two separate Aircraft Support Groups (ASGs), with each ASG being responsible for maintaining 3 aircraft. Everyday technicians carried out scheduled maintenance, fault rectification and daily servicing while maintaining a low profile. Even simple work becomes more challenging when carrying a weapon, body armour and helmet at all times

During the time at Nesscliffe myself and six others were tasked with recovering the second isolated aircraft of the exercise in Cheddar, Yoxeter. We were informed that on landing at the FARP, the aircraft had a power distribution fault, and that when restarting the Auxiliary power unit, a fire had developed within the APU, forcing the use of a fire bottle by the aircrew.

On arrival, our Artificer and Supervisor investigated the APU and concluded that there was no fire, but that the restart ignited previous fuel residue, resulting in a flame on start.

The maintenance required was replacement of the fire bottle, which entailed removing all IPAS pipes surrounding the fire bottle, followed by disconnecting all electrical connections to the fire bottle. Due to the location and spares chain, we encountered delays and were unable to secure spares for the remainder of the week, resulting in some downtime but remaining stagging on the aircraft until spares arrived.

Post the corrective maintenance being carried out we then reintegrated with the rest of the section, with the opportunity to fly back via Wildcat.

During the time at Nesscliffe, myself and six others were

tasked to move forward to conduct maintenance on an aircraft that had landed at a FARP. This involved diagnosing the fault, deploying spare parts to the location and conducting maintenance, all in a new location in the field without the luxuries of hangars and cranes. Once complete, we recovered to Nescliffe in the back of a Wildcat helicopter, a bit quicker than a Land Rover!

As phase one of the deployment neared to an end, the Squadron underwent multiple serial tests by validators to determine how effectively we would handle the various situations and scenarios. These serials entailed enemy trying to sabotage aircraft, CBRN threats and planted IEDs on entrances to the training area.

On the completion of phase one of the deployment

we began phase 2 which required a road moved from Nesscliffe to Eaglescott airfield in Devon. For this duration of the exercise the AH64E and Wildcat conducted maintenance from the same location. After a week of daily compressor washes and maintenance, the four-week exercise come to a close. We then conducted a Brigade road move back to Wattisham flying station for unpacking.

Four weeks in the field feels like a long time, but it was an excellent opportunity to develop our skills and procedures, particularly for operating in a dispersed, concealed environment and for having the flexibility to prepare Attack Aviation anywhere, in any conditions at any time.

LCpl Mark Armiger 663 Sqn ES Pl

Nijmegen March

The team set off for a day’s march in the early morning light.

Commanding Officer: Lt Col A Harris AAC

Second-in-Command: Maj P Parkes, AAC

Adjutant: Capt E Wilson AAC

Regimental Sergeant Major: WO1(RSM) MR Jones

The Nijmegen march is the largest multiday marching event in the world.

It is an annual four-day walking event that has taken place since 1909 (based in Nijmegen since 1924) as a means of promoting sport and exercise. As well as varied routes for civilians, military contingents walk 40 km per day in uniform carrying a minimum of 10kg for men; carrying weight is optional for women. This does not include consumables or protective clothing for weather conditions. This year, 656 Sqn joined with JHC to attend the 105Th annual Nijmegen march.

Every morning a “wake up” song was played through the speakers across the entire camp. Specifically, for us, this song meant we woke to an instant positive atmosphere setting the standard early on for a day of music, morale and the Dutch countryside. Typically, the march began between the early hours of 03:00-05:00 with every nation stepping off in staggered times to ensure everyone can safely complete the march. We would march around 40 km each day which was divided into four legs of varying distances - roughly 8-12 km. Each stop had dedicated rest areas set up with medical bays, water bowsers and food tables. This is where we eagerly took the time to rest our worn feet whilst conducting any further admin required and restore our depleted energy systems.

These rest stops were essential for maintain morale throughout the gruelling days. Time has a tendency to stretch

out when walking for so many miles and at times a short mental break was often all that was needed to keep ourselves motivated. Once the march had been completed for the day, personnel were able to spend the evening in the compound bar, enjoying a well-earned beer and socialising with participants from the other nations.

On the final day we received the royally approved “Vierdaagsekruis” medal in recognition of the challenge 656 Sqn had just completed. This was awarded just before the final 5 km stretch, where the opportunity was given to show off as every British military contingent paraded in step (or as in step as they could manage with tired limbs) through the town centre. All the while being presented by the public with gladioli, a symbol of victory since Roman times, when gladiators were likewise showered with these flowers.

Marching round the Netherlands is an experience to remember forever. An entire nation on complete stand down, with locals flooding their own streets dedicating their time, money, and effort to support the

The “Vierdaagsekruis” awarded to all successful participants of the Nijmegen March.

“Walk of the World”. For many of the Dutch people, Nijmegen is a rite of passage and a highlight to their year, whether as a participant or a supporter. Your first day as marcher is universally the one to stand out the most. Those of us that were attending for the first time were in complete awe of the atmosphere; streets being so full of life for so long is not something many people are used to. Urban areas are filled with locals in their gardens partying from the moment you're out marching, with stands set up full of food and beverages for participants to indulge in as they pass.

Although this event is a positive experience, it remains an arduous challenge. Marching 160km over four days is very difficult and required considerable preparation. We completed an intensive build up PT program, ensuring that we were in the best physical shape to complete the challenge and able to avoid injury. The Nijmegen march is the perfect opportunity to test your physical and mental resilience; an opportunity which the 656 Sqn team met with determination and enthusiasm.

ATpr Ryan 656 SQN

Members of the JHC team enjoy the hospitality of the Dutch locals.

Silverstone F1 Grand Prix

In July I had the amazing opportunity to attend the British Formula 1 Grand Prix at Silverstone to support the UK Armed Forces’ engagement activities.

Ten personnel AAC and REME from across 4 Regt along with an Apache AH Mk1 formed the centrepiece of the Military Village and spent the week informing the public of the role of the aircraft and life in the Army Air Corps.

Engaging with the public at an event like this was very enjoyable; we met a range of people from avid aviation enthusiasts to the completely uninitiated. All were equally interested to learn about the aircraft, its weapons, and the roles of AAC personnel in both flying and supporting the aircraft. It was a great way to raise the profile of the Army Air Corps and the wider armed forces. Units from across all

three services featured in the village, along with several aircraft and vehicles including a Challenger 2 tank.

We were fortunate to welcome F1 drivers and personalities to the Military Village, including Haas team principal Guenther Steiner. I explained to him the variety of munitions carried by the Apache and he was given a personal tour of the Apache’s cockpit, watched on by a huge crowd of F1 fans and media.

Several personnel were able to negotiate VIP access to the paddock and pitlane (helped by some passes generously donated by the Haas team) and enjoyed viewing the cars and stars of F1 up close. I met Mercedes driver George Russell,

watched the Williams team practice their pitstops, toured Alpine’s garage and got up close with championship leader Max Verstappen’s Red Bull car.

With all the excitement of exploring the circuit and long, often hot, days spent in the Military Village, some downtime was certainly welcome. During the evenings, personnel were able to enjoy the festival-style entertainment on the main stage including performances from Calvin Harris, Jess Glynne and the Black Eyed Peas.

For the avid motorsport fans amongst the group (me included), the best part of our time there was being able to watch the F1 cars on the track. Some careful shift planning allowed us to take turns staffing the Military Village and watching the practice sessions in the nearby stands. However, for qualifying and

the race the military village was closed and all military were placed trackside, offering some of the best views of the action. 4 Regt personnel were fortunate to be placed next to an excellent section of the circuit close to the pit entrance – a truly unforgettable end to an excellent week combining military and motorsport.

ATpr Davies 656 Sqn

Apache AH Mk1 display at Silverstone.

Haas F1 Team Principal Guenther Steiner gets a tour of the Apache.

British Army firepower ready for the crowds.

Ringshall

Commanding Officer: Lt Col M Jones REME

Second in Command: Maj S Bass, REME

Adjutant: Capt S Higgins REME

Regimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) R Strydom, REME

The past few months have been a period of significant change for 7 Aviation Support Battalion REME. We have said a fond farewell to our Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Martyn Jones, who has departed for an overseas tour. We wish him and his family all the best for the future. The Battalion therefore welcomes a new Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Huggins, who has already been busy with Exercise PINION TITAN, and preparing for our other future commitments.

Since the last issue, many of our soldiers and officers have been on adventurous

training in Cyprus, Germany and Malta, taking part in a range of activities including mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking and scubadiving. At the end of June our Field Gun Crew competed at the annual Field Gun Competition at HMS Collingwood, winning the Defence Trophy for Best NonNavy Team. This was a testament to the team and coaches’ hard work and commitment to training in the months leading up to the competition – congratulations! In July the Officers’ Mess travelled to Kent for the Leeds Castle Concert, a fantastic evening of live music performances, spitfire aerobatics, fireworks and delicious

food provided by our own team of chefs, led by SSgt Logan. It was a truly memorable evening and a highlight of the Mess calendar – thank you to Captain Craig Beaman for organising.

After working hard to train, develop staff skills and refine processes over a series of exercises, Battalion Headquarters have been validated at the Combined Arms Staff Trainer (Warminster), enabled by a fantastic real-life support team led by Captain Gary Burdon. Most recently, the whole Battalion has been involved in Exercise PINION TITAN, a large-scale training exercise that took place across the country. During the

exercise, 132 Supply Squadron worked closely alongside their Reserve colleagues from 158 Regiment RLC. We have also had individuals deployed on Ex PINION OMAN, in support of 3 Regt AAC, where they were trialling a new structural repair capability.

Over the next few months, we are continuing with our main tasks of engineering acceptance of the AH-64E and training for future exercises and deployments. Many of our soldiers and officers are also looking forward to the winter sports season, with preparations ongoing for exercises in Norway, France and Germany.

EX PINION TITAN

7 Aviation Support Battalion REME deployed on Ex PINION TITAN as the 1 Avn Brigade Support Group (BSG) for 1 Aviation Brigade Combat Team. After months of preparation and build up training, this was the first opportunity to train as a BSG, with the added pressure of troops on the ground, enemy forces, and civilians.

Once deployed on Swynnerton training area, the BSG HQ began to conduct planning, issuing orders to BSG sub-units and beginning to execute the different functions, from logistics, equipment support (ES) and tactical fuels, we worked on our interoperability together. From large ES tasks, including engine changes in vehicles and supporting the Army Air Corps Battle groups with engineering

tasks for the helicopters, all troops were being tested in their relevant roles. With a plethora of tasks being submitted to the BSG daily, there was always different scenarios to react too and provide support and advice across the BCT.

With the arrival the new Bn Commanding Officer halfway through the deployment, the HQ helped him to bed into the new role, in a tactical and demanding environment.

Across all sub-units, there was a growth in knowledge,

experience and key skills, which had been developed over the training period months before. Finally able to execute BSG HQ plans allowed the troops to gain meaningful lessons, finessing trade skills and understanding where the Avn BSG fits into Field Army.

Overall, Ex PINION TITAN was a demanding exercise for all involved, however delivered a large output, increasing understanding and training for all involved.

OLD BUCKENHAM HALL

Having joined OBH at the beginning of this academic year, my family and I have experience firsthand what a special prep school it is.

OBH is, first and foremost, a school that cares deeply about its pupils and nurtures young people who feel safe, supported and understood in one of the most beautiful surroundings any child could wish for. We firmly believe that success is the by-product of happiness, not the other way around, and the achievements our pupils go on to enjoy are evidence that this philosophy is working.

OBH is an ambitious school that prepares children for many of the country’s most prestigious senior schools. We deliver a rigorous 21st-century curriculum but balance it with an exceptional co-curricular programme that is unrivalled in this area. Pupils benefit from 80 acres of outstanding sports facilities, specialist theatre and performance spaces, and we’re even developing a farm on site! The result: 48 pupils have achieved a range of scholarships in the past five years.

For over 160 years, OBH has enjoyed a close relationship with families serving in the armed forces, and we are passionate about supporting these families long into the future. If you would

like to visit the school, please don’t hesitate to be in touch. Kate Walmsley, our wonderful Registrar, would love to hear from you and can be reached at admissions@obh.co.uk

James Large Headmaster at OBH

Saturday

Bildeston and Whatfield Federation

Welcome to Bildeston and Whatfield Federation. We are very proud of our two federated schools, both of which have maintained their Ofsted ‘Good’ status in the past year. The schools are within 3.6 miles of each other and collectively work to give children on both sites the best education we can.

The two schools have quite distinct personalities, Whatfield is our smaller school with a planned admission number of 8 children and the current number on roll is 38 taught in three classes. We have access to a beautiful outdoor space

including a forest area and have just finished renovating our Early Years outside area. The children join daily for collective worship and we have close ties to the local church, St Margaret’s. Mrs Clarke, our head of school would be delighted to welcome you for a tour if you would like to come and visit. Our children are thoughtful and caring and school is like an extended family.

At Bildeston we have 115 children currently enrolled in 5 classes with a planned admission number of 20 for each year group. The children have lots of opportunities to take part in a wider curriculum

Bildeston Primary School

Learning and Growing Together

This is a ‘Good’ school (Ofsted) September 2022 “Pupils love school. They feel cared for as individuals” Would you like to find out more about our friendly and successful rural school?

Visit our school website: www.bildeston.suffolk.sch.uk

Or call 01449 740269 to request a visit

including sporting events, music and arts. Whilst a bigger school, the children still have lots of opportunity to be together so have opportunities to play and learn alongside

siblings and friends of different ages at times. Please do come along and meet us. Our Head of School, Mrs Healy, or Mrs Coll in our office would be delighted to show you around.

Whatfield Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School

Our school is 'like a small mustard seed...' (Mark 4:30-32)

This is a "Good" Ofsted School 2023

If you would like to find out more about our small community school, please contact 01473 823309 email admin@whatfield.suffolk.sch.uk

www.whatfield.suffolk.sch.uk

Pool staff reserve the right to refuse entry into the swimming pool.

Welcome to

St Mary’s School, Hadleigh

We are very proud of our friendly, caring school and would be delighted to show you round.

Ofsted has recognised St Mary’s as a ‘good’ school with an ‘outstanding’ Early Years Foundation Stage and we are constantly striving to provide the best possible education for our children. In our last SIAMS inspection, the school was graded ‘outstanding’ and our focus on children’s wellbeing and pastoral care was praised.

Our Early Years setting is a bright, vibrant introduction to St Mary’s, helping children develop a love of learning. We have introduced Forest School, which helps to develop children’s imagination, vocabulary and their respect for the world around them.

At St Mary’s, we aim to provide an exciting, broad curriculum and a range of exciting opportunities to inspire children and to enhance their learning. Children will experience castles, museums, farms, local walks, music tuition, a residential trip and so many more ways we enrich their learning. We enter lots of sports tournaments, giving children opportunities to represent their school and be competitive. There are also lots of sports clubs

at lunch time and after school to help children to be more active.

We take great pride in our strong partnership with parents and our position at the heart of the community. We aim to develop well-rounded children, who are respectful of other people, places and cultures.

Everything we do at St Mary’s is based on our distinctive Christian vision and values. Our compassionate ethos leads to an emphasis on inclusion, strong pastoral care and support for children’s emotional wellbeing. We believe that if we meet children’s emotional needs and support children as individuals, then they will be ‘ready to learn’ and will be able to be the best they can be. Our strong pastoral team includes our part-time Service Children’s Champion, who is focused on supporting children from the service community.

Please contact the school office to find out more – we would love to show you round!

01473 823268

admin@stmaryshad.co.uk

Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34

St Mary's C of E Primary School

Telephone: 01473 823268

Email: admin@stmaryshad.co.uk

Website: www.stmaryshad.co.uk

Headmaster: Mr A. Frolish

We invite you to our friendly, welcoming school to see how we develop children into successful learners and caring members of the community.

“Pupils at St Mary’s are happy and enjoy going to school. The school is a friendly,welcoming place.”

“Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive.They agree that their children have a very good and caring start to their education. Parents appreciate the warm welcome leaders provide."

St Mary’s Church of England Primary School is a vibrant, Christian school, in which all children achieve well and are inspired to a lifelong love of learning!

‘Rated GOOD by Ofsted and Early Years was OUTSTANDING

Rated Outstanding by SIAMS!’

Grooming Salon The

ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL SHORTLISTED FOR NATIONAL AWARDS

ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL (RHS), BASED JUST 30 MINUTES FROM WATTISHAM, HAS BEING SHORTLISTED IN A NUMBER OF MAJOR SCHOOL AWARDS, AND IS THE ONLY SCHOOL IN SUFFOLK TO BE FEATURED IN TATLER’S SCHOOL GUIDE OF LEADING UK PUBLIC SCHOOLS 2024 AND THE GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE.

“The school turns out kind, thoughtful and confident young adults who can integrate into different environments. And above all, children are happy”, quotes Tatler.

“To also be shortlisted as a finalist for ‘happiest boarding school’ is a real testament to the warm and welcoming community RHS offers its pupils” says Sophy Walker, director of admissions

and marketing at RHS. “The school’s commitment to the wellbeing of its pupils, parents and staff also led it to being awarded the prestigious national wellbeing award for schools earlier this year, following an ambitious initiative to engage the whole school community in activities designed to raise awareness of the importance of good mental health.” Regular surveys included one parent quoting; “The wellbeing principle at RHS is

a golden thread in every aspect of school life and that’s why my child is flourishing in all areas.”

RHS is also excelling in its curriculum, winning the ‘empowering young entrepreneurs’ category against other leading schools in the uk. They were also a finalist in ‘coeducational excellence’, highlighting the school’s commitment to creating an inclusive and diverse environment.

RHS offers families a modern range of day and boarding options, allowing pupils to fully benefit from the incredible facilities on offer, which includes a music

school, art and design centre, drama studio, library and resource centre, 96 acres of sports fields, allweather pitches, indoor swimming pool, golf course, indoor climbing wall, gym and fitness suite, martial arts and dance studios, netball and tennis courts plus a world leading RYA sailing academy. Based on a stunning riverside campus of 200 acres, pupils choose from an exciting range of GCSEs, A levels and BTECs, with the majority going on to secure their first choice of university or future pathway.

Book a private visit: 01473 326205

royalhospitalschool.org