Summer 2022
Wittering View The official magazine for RAF Wittering and the A4 Force
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Foreword
Editor Welcome to the Summer 2022 edition of the Wittering View Magazine. The theme of food seems to feature rather prominently in this issue. In addition to our awardwinning chefs (page 11), you can also catch up on the important events they are catering for (the Super-Graduation at RAF Cranwell on page 28) as well as the training being provided to the next generation of RAF chefs (page 7). If the thought of all that food is too much, then why not read about the incredible Forces March Challenge that personnel from 540 Squadron and 1 EL Squadron undertook. Find out more about their amazing efforts on page 9. This year we mark the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War. Padre Andrew Tucker has written a moving piece about a powerful moment he witnessed during his time as Chaplain to the Joint Forces on the Islands. (Page 21). Finally, your favourite Station magazine (the Wittering View obviously!), is also looking to introduce some new blood to the editorial team. So, if you have a passion for writing or just fancy finding out what’s happening on Station, then please get in touch.
Summer 2022
Emma Stacey Acting Editor
l magazine
for RAF Witte
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This quarter has seen a few highprofile visitors to the Station. The Mayor of Stamford presented honours and awards to several of our personnel, both service and civilian, and that provided us the opportunity for the Mayor of our local town to hear some of the amazing work that people at Wittering do. We then hosted the Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Mrs Julie Spence OBE QPM, who was able to experience some of the diverse outputs that Wittering delivers for Defence while also presenting honours and awards. Finally, we had our Annual Formal Inspection by Air Officer Commanding No 2 Gp, AVM S Marshall. This was the formal inspection of RAF Wittering and the A4 FEs by our 2* commander and provided the opportunity to show what we do. All these visits went well, and my thanks goes to all who were involved in ensuring that our guests had
a great time while visiting our Station. The Harrier part of our Heritage Centre was showcased during this period with an event for aviation photographers. This saw four Harriers, representing the 40 years of Harrier operations from Wittering, on the pan in the sunshine. Harriers were also placed in shelters in Vigo Woods, harking back to the 80s and Tactical Evaluations on the plains of Germany as the Royal Air Force maintained its force readiness against Soviet forces to the East. Being reminded of those times has prescience given the situation in Ukraine and Eastern Europe, where our preparatory focus as a Station should be. Ex Joint Caterer saw our chefs from both 3 MCS and Base Spt Sqn competing against the other Services and civilians alike at the NEC in Birmingham. This was fantastically successful (you can read all about it on page 11), so well done to all involved! This
period also saw Station personnel taking part in a challenging skiing expedition in Austria. Spread over two weeks, this fantastic opportunity came about thanks to the dedication and hard work of the PEd Flt, whose determination to run an expedition despite the challenges of COVID led to a successful Exped for 33 people from all ranks and areas of the Station. Well done to all! As we approach summer the Station will remain busy, with a focus on operational preparedness. But we must find time for fun and celebrations as well, following the celebrations to mark Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, we can now turn our attention to Families’ Day in July, making the most of nice weather without the restrictions of COVID that have hung over us for the last two years. Wing Commander Jez Case, Station Commander
Submissions
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Station Command Wg Cdr Jez Case (right) talking with the Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Mrs Julie Spence and her husband John during a visit.
A4 Force
Please direct all submissions for Wittering View Magazine to: The Editor, WIT-GMBWittView@mod.gov.uk Please try to ensure that images are in .jpeg format and as large as possible. Text should be supplied in Microsoft Word .doc format or plain text if possible. SUMMER 2022
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Wittering View The official magazine for RAF Wittering and the A4 Force
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18 Contents Chief of the Air Staff Visits Wittering 06 3MCS Deployed Skills Training 07 Lord Lieutenant Visits RAF Wittering 08 Forces March 09 New Picture Commemorates 10 Bomb Disposal Squadron Exercise Joint Caterer 11 News in Brief 12 Smart Award 2021 14 New Station Warrant Officer 14 Station Heritage Centre Photo Day 16 About Wittering Heritage Centre 17 Exercise Blizzwitt 18
Acting Editor Emma Stacey Team Marissa Russell, Cpl Chantelle Gregg, SAC Dan Smither, Ed Palmer and SAC Kim Waterson.
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Special Photography Workshop 18 Community News 20 Tea Break Time 24 In the Hot Seat 26 3MCS Lead Catering at RAF Graduation 28
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SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 5
feature CAS VISIT
Air Chief Marshal Wigston with personnel from RAF Wittering and the Support Force.
Chief Of The Air Staff Visits RAF Wittering Innovation was the theme as Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, Chief of the Air Staff, visited RAF Wittering in May. Air Chief Marshal Wigston is the professional head of the Royal Air Force and 30th Chief of the Air Staff (CAS). A former Tornado pilot, Sir Mike served in Afghanistan and Iraq, and has commanded No 12 Squadron, No 903 Expeditionary Air Wing, and the British Forces in Cyprus. During his visit Sir Mike saw how the Support Force is using innovative technologies in engineering, medical support, fuels, and communications. First on the agenda was Additive Manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, when he met personnel from No 71 (Inspection & Repair) Squadron. The Squadron is evaluating innovative technologies to inform the RAF on ways of reducing the time aircraft are grounded in the future. Additive Manufacturing is funded by the RAF Rapid Capabilities Office, Defence Innovation Fund, and RAF Astra the RAF’s campaign to build and sustain the Next Generation Royal Air Force. After a presentation from the Fuels Support Team of No 1 Expeditionary Logistics Squadron, Sir Mike was given a hands-on demonstration of SimMan by 6 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
Tactical Medical Wing. SimMan is an advanced patient simulator that can display a range of different symptoms, making him a useful and responsive training aid for RAF medical personnel. After a presentation from 90 Signals Unit on the new RAVEN
communications and information system, Air Chief Marshal Wigston attended a town hall meeting, to hear directly from military and civilian personnel and answer their questions. Sir Mike spoke at length about work of the Support Force over
Sir Mike is given a demonstration of the SimMan training aid by Tactical Medical Wing.
the last two years, particularly during the pandemic, and thanked the team for their continuing dedication, focus and professionalism. Air Commodore Neil Grant, who commands Support Force, said: “It’s been an honour to welcome Air Chief Marshal Wigston today, and to accompany him as he has met and interacted with Support Force and Station personnel. Visits of this kind are enormously valuable to us and it’s clear to see that the Chief understands how important our people are to delivery of air and space power.”
feature 3MCS DEPLOYED SKILLS Camouflage and concealment training.
New Chefs Train With No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron At Wittering
No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron has been preparing the next generation of RAF Chefs for operations and exercises. Brisk temperatures, winds and cold rain met trainee Royal Air Force chefs as they learned how to cook for large numbers in a deployed setting. The Deployed Skills Course gives newlyqualified RAF chefs hands on experience of catering in field conditions. Flight Sergeant Michael Liu from 3MCS said: “This course is not easy. Firstly, there’s hygiene standards in a tented kitchen,
just because you’re outdoors there can’t be any let up in cleanliness. Secondly, you must work with what you’ve got in the ration packs, there are no recipes, but we still have a requirement to create interesting, nutritious and tasty food.” RAF Chefs and Air Ground Stewards form Trade Group (TG) 19, a key element of the wider RAF Logistics Profession. Recruits who join TG 19 first
Time to dish up as 3MCS personnel check the trainees’ work.
complete basic military training at RAF Halton and then begin their trade training at Worthy Down Barracks. This intake of trainees has successfully completed their trade training and spent six weeks working in the kitchens at their own Stations before starting the course. Basic military skills were also on the menu for the trainee chefs. Aside from working in the kitchen, 3MCS Corporals
Mike Salmon and Sean Bunday taught the students how to camouflage and disrupt the outline of tented kitchen. Unless camouflage netting is correctly installed, it will provide no tactical advantage. The course lasts ten days; six days of classroom-based learning and four days of work in a tented kitchen. A ten-man operational ration pack is the basis for most of the recipes cooked by the trainee chefs, although it is supplemented by a few basic fresh rations. The aim is to get the chefs to think on their feet and use their culinary skills to come up with their own recipes. Flight Sergeant Liu said: “What you’ve got to understand is the relationship between food and morale when you are on an operation or an exercise. Personnel are working very hard over long hours; they need something familiar and nourishing.”
From left to right: LAC Thomas Shaw, LAC Lewis Jennings, LAC Moira MacLeod, LAC Charles Sapin, Cpl Mike Salmon.
SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 7
Feature Lord lieutenant visit Julie Spence with the Station Commander and the award recipients.
Lord Lieutenant Visits RAF Wittering Pilots and engineers from RAF Wittering met with a distinguished guest as the Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Mrs Julie Spence, visited the historic Station. The Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Mrs Julie Spence OBE QPM, is Her Majesty The Queen’s representative in the County. She leads the Lieutenancy, which helps to foster good relations and co-operation between all kinds of organisations across the county. Mrs Spence arrived as the guest of Wing Commander Jez Case, the Station Commander at RAF Wittering. He said: “We have a wide range of military capabilities
at this Station, that enable UK Air Power around the world. Hosting the Lord Lieutenant provides us the opportunity to share what we do with the wider Cambridgeshire community that helps us deliver for Defence.” Arriving at the Station, the Lord Lieutenant received a friendly welcome from Wing Commander Case and his officers. Mrs Spence then met with Squadron Leader Rich Kellett, one of RAF Wittering’s most experienced pilots, for a briefing on the
Sgt Michael Matthias of No 71 Squadron demonstrates the properties of fibre reinforced plastics and 3D printing to the Lord Lieutenant. 8 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
Station’s flying mission and an introduction to the Grob Tutor aircraft. Squadron Leader Kellett said; “We have a strong link to the county through Cambridge University Air Squadron, and the Lord Lieutenant understands how we rs’ book at RAF Wittering. attract talent into the RAF Mrs Spence signs the visito by developing our undergraduates and enhancing moment we met Squadron their university educations.” Leader Kellett, to going to the Julie Spence is best known field kitchens and understanding as the former Chief Constable the logistics required behind the for Cambridgeshire Police. In deployment of personnel, and addition to her busy role as then to see the fabulous work Lord Lieutenant of the county, done in the engineering team Mrs Spence is the Chair of at 71 Squadron.” both Cambridgeshire and Wing Commander Case Peterborough NHS Foundation concluded: “It has been a Trust, and Police Mutual. pleasure to welcome the Lord New 3D printing capabilities Lieutenant to RAF Wittering, were next on the agenda as the introduce her to some of our Lord Lieutenant visited No 71 talented personnel and show her Inspection & Repair (IR) Squadron. some of the many capabilities 71 (IR) Squadron specialises in that RAF Wittering delivers for repairing damage to deployed Defence. Our Lord Lieutenant is fixed wing aircraft and is leading a keen supporter of the Armed the project to bring 3D printing Forces, and we value enormously into the Royal Air Force. the good will of Cambridgeshire Having changed into her official and its people.” uniform, the Lord Lieutenant joined Wing Commander Case in the Station’s honours and awards ceremony where she presented several awards to individuals and teams from across the Station. Speaking of her visit, the Lord Mrs Spence in conversation with Sqn Lieutenant said: “It’s been an Ldr Rich Kellett in the cockpit of a Grob amazing insight into how RAF Tutor aircraft. Wittering works, right from the
feature forces march
er), SAC Leigh The Team (from left): Sgt Errol Robinson (Team Manag Cousins, David LAC , Massey Mick Cpl s, Andrew Stu SAC Warren, Corbett. SAC Lisa Gilley, Flt Lt Mike Kempster and LAC Kathryn
FORCES MARCH
Cpl Mick Massey of 540 Sqn being presented with The Ben Parkinson Trophy.
RAF Wittering personnel from 504 Squadron and 1 EL Squadron entered a joint team into The Forces March 2022. The Forces March is an epic UK Endurance Challenge which is a recreation of a 135-mile Second World War training march from Ilfracombe, North Devon to Bulford, Wiltshire by foot; five marathons in five days! 504 Squadron first entered the event in 2015 and has been entering the event every year since, Covid permitting, raising more than £10,000 during that time. This year 504 Sqn was joined by members from 1 ELS, to form a joint RAF Wittering team, managing to raise £5,000 via the teams’ Just Giving fundraising page. It is the key fundraising event for The Veterans Charity and all funds raised on the march help provide vital support to hundreds of veterans who face hardship and distress. The origins of the Forces March date back to 1942 when a group of soldiers, mostly from
the now legendary Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, were in North Devon, undertaking three weeks of intensive physical training and forced marches. At the end of their three weeks, they were given one final task; to march back to their barracks in Bulford - over 130 miles away! They set off from Ilfracombe in the middle of a heatwave, dressed in full kit, following the coast for a short way before heading inland across Exmoor. Stopping each night, it took the group five days to cover the demanding route to Bulford. Each year, the Veterans Charity recreate this incredible feat and bring together serving military personnel, Veterans and civilians from all over the UK, to take on the challenge. The event is ranked as one of the top endurance events in the UK. After each day of walking or running, the 504
Sqn and 1 ELS team stayed overnight at a campsite set up by the support crews with catering delivered by 504 Sqn Catering Flight. Cpl Mick Massey of 504 Sqn was awarded the Ben Parkinson Trophy for Overcoming Adversity. The trophy was named in honour of Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson MBE of 7 Para RHA who was severely injured in Afghanistan in 2006. Despite suffering dozens of injuries, his remarkable determination and incredible courage saw him walk several hundred yards of The Forces March on prosthetic legs in 2010. Ben now walks unaided, skydives, kayaks and inspires many people around the world! The 504 Sqn and 1 ELS team were also awarded the Protective Security Trophy, donated by former serviceman and police officer Paul Parker, for giving the top fundraising performance by a team. The Forces March by its very nature stretches individuals, promotes leadership, shows courage and determination, tests mental and physical resilience as well as displaying the Core Values of the RAF.
Team member LAC Dave Cousins of 504 Sqn said: “I thought the event was amazing, fantastic atmosphere and well organised, for me personally it just shows how much you can push yourself.” His thoughts were echoed by LAC Kathryn Corbett who was taking part for the first time. She said: “The most memorable part for me was being part of a team who supported, motivated, and took care of me each day, with laughter and friendship. I was humbled by the mental strength and determination the team showed to get to the final day” by Sgt Errol Robinson 504 Squadron is planning to enter the Forces March in 2023 as another joint RAF Wittering Team. If you fancy a challenge look out for the flyers next year and get in touch. www.forcesmarch.org.uk/ www.veteranscharity. org.uk/
The team after crossing the finish line on Day 5.
SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 9
Feature 5131 (BD) Sqn History
www.MarkWhitakerArt.co.uk
The commemorative painting by Mark Whitaker.
New Picture Commemorates
Bomb Disposal Squadron New pictures commemorating the history of 5131 Bomb Disposal (BD) Squadron have been installed in the Officers’ and Sergeants’ messes at Royal Air Force Wittering. Created by local artist Mark Whittaker, the prints depict key moments from the Squadron’s history, surrounding the famous badge, which was worn by squadron personnel. Followers of military history will recognise scenes from Afghanistan, Kosovo, Iraq, the Falklands, and the Squadron’s beginnings in the Second World War. First formed in 1943, 5131 Bomb Disposal Squadron was the Royal Air Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) capability for 77 years. Its highly skilled technicians were trained to deal with conventional munitions and improvised explosive devices. The Squadron also responded to aircraft crashes; clearing the area of explosive risks - making weapons, countermeasures, flares and ejector seats safe. Mr Whitaker was asked by a friend and running partner, a former member of 5131 (BD) 10 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
Squadron, if he would be willing to create a piece that would commemorate the history of the Squadron and bomb disposal in the RAF. Mark said: “I was quite proud that the piece was going to be there, and that names from the Squadron dating back to the Falklands were signed around the border. Obviously very proud
personally that they’re up there now in the two messes and that people using the messes will see those names and remember them.” Squadron Leader Al Auchterlonie, the last Officer Commanding of 5131 (BD) Squadron, said: “I thought it was a wonderful way and such a kind gesture from Mark to
From left to right: Squadron Leader Al Auchterlonie, Wing Commander Maggie Boyle, Mr Mark Whitaker, Warrant Officer Dave Lowe. Images by SAC Kimberly Waterson
permanently capture the history and significant events through the years of RAF EOD capability and in particular 5131 (BD) Squadron.” The Squadron was formally stood down on March 31, 2020, where the pennant was lowered and folded for the last time. Sadly, coronavirus restrictions meant that an official disbandment parade was not possible until October 2021, when the Squadron’s memorial was formally dedicated. The installing of the prints is the last act of commemoration to the Squadron and the bravery of its personnel. The installing was attended by Squadron Leader Auchterlonie, Wing Commander Maggie Boyle, Mr Whittaker and Warrant Officer Dave Lowe. Squadron Leader Auchterlonie said: “Commanding 5131 (BD) Squadron was a great personal honour, but also a sad point in my career for losing such a big part of my service history after spending a third of my career in full-time RAF EOD roles.” Wing Commander Maggie Boyle, Officer Commanding Support Wing, at RAF Wittering, said: “Firstly we must thank Mark Whittaker for his time and trouble in producing this picture. The disbandment of a squadron is never easy, particularly one as well known and regarded as 5131. With these pictures, and the memorial to the Squadron unveiled last year, their place in the history of RAF Wittering is assured.”
feature EX JOINT CATERER
Gold At
Exercise Joint Caterer
Sac Annie Nicol with her silver award winning vegan dish.
SAC Pete Wooton, a reserve Chef from 504 Squadron, seconded to No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron.
Chefs from RAF Wittering impressed the judges at the inter-services cookery competition, Exercise Joint Caterer, held at the NEC in Birmingham. Regulars from No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS), and Reservists from 504 (County of Nottingham) Squadron put up a strong showing against rival chefs from the Royal Navy and British Army at the two-day event. Judging is severe, with all the entries evaluated by professional chefs. In the Defence Field Cookery Challenge, 3MCS won gold. Working with a pair of ten-man ration packs, the team created an innovative menu, which included Chicken 65, a dish originating from Hotel Buhari, Chennai, India.
The team was led by Sergeant Carl Findon, an RAF Chef of 21 years’ standing. He said: “This is a competition I’ve never done. It was hard because I was managing a team as well. We did two practises, got my feedback and adjusted my menu. It was great team, strong team, and we did the business on the day.” In the Defence Engagement Challenge, where fine food is prepared in field kitchen conditions, the 3MCS team led by Sergeant Dave Wright, also took gold. The team was augmented by 504 Sqn Reservist,
SAC Pete Wooton, who was on secondment to 3MCS. Fellow 504 Sqn Reservist, SAC Andrew Blezard, won silver in the celebration cake decoration category. SAC Jody Huteson won gold for 3MCS in the lamb category, and SAC Mark Dearlove took silver for the Squadron in the Great British Pie Challenge. 3MCS picked up another award when SAC Annie Nicol took the silver for the vegan category. 3MCS and 504 Squadron are both part of the RAF Support Force which brings together most of the capabilities and skills needed to sustain modern air operations and exercises. There is a fine tradition of inter-service rivalry and friendly competition at Exercise Joint Caterer. Sgt Findon said: “It’s
always great at Joint Caterer with good friendly banter between the Navy, the Army and the RAF, but when those guys are competing, that’s what really does it for me.” Air Commodore Neil Grant, Air Officer Commanding Support Force, said: “Our team has done brilliantly. I know from personal experience how high the standard of cookery is at Exercise Joint Caterer, and how much work goes into preparing for this competition. But there are other benefits to this Exercise. We know that good food enhances the morale of deployed personnel, and events like Joint Caterer help the whole of defence by allowing our chefs to exchange ideas and learn from one another.”
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NEWS In brief
News In Brief
Annual Formal Inspection Air Vice-Marshal Suraya Marshall visited RAF Wittering in April for the Station’s annual formal inspection. AVM Marshall is Air Officer Commanding No 2 Group, which includes the RAF Support Force, of which the Station is a part. All RAF units, from squadrons to stations, have a formal inspection from a senior officer every year. Formal inspections allow units to show the chain of command that they are safe, effective, and able to deliver their specific military capabilities. RAF Wittering is home to the specialist engineering and logistics squadrons that support RAF air operations and exercises, collectively known as the A4 Force Elements. A4 Force personnel are stationed at Wittering and nine other UK bases, and they support most of the ongoing RAF missions at home and abroad. Five flying units also live at RAF Wittering; training instructors, new pilots and flying air cadets. AVM Marshall visited the Station’s air traffic control tower and was given a capability demonstration from the A4 Force Elements.
Suraya Marshall was the first woman with an aircrew background to achieve command of a Group that also includes operational flying squadrons. Prior to her promotion and new appointment, AVM Marshall was most recently the Commandant of RAF College Cranwell, which selects and trains the next generation of officers and aircrew. RAF Wittering passed its formal inspection, with AVM Marshall posting a glowing report on her Twitter feed. She said: “My thanks to RAF Wittering and the A4 Force Elements of the Support Force for hosting a superb Annual Formal Inspection. It’s always humbling to meet so many exceptional people, delivering exceptional outputs and taking such pride in what they do.”
The MindSpace fortnightly Brew and Banter sessions in Stamford for veterans is a safe space for anyone who has served in the armed forces to connect with each other. Run by veterans for veterans, it has been created to offer something for anyone who’s worked in the armed forces, no matter the rank, enabling them to talk about their experiences. MindSpace volunteer Owen, himself a former RAF serviceman, explained: “The recent events in the Ukraine may have brought back memories for many exservice personnel of serving in Afghanistan, Iraq or other conflicts where civilians have been hurt in the conflict. Talking about their feelings with other veterans who have had similar experiences and can understand and empathise, can be very beneficial.” MindSpace Trustee Mary Dowglass added: “The Brew and Banter sessions at Mindspace are valuable on
their own, but Mindspace is also connected with other organisations in South Lincolnshire, such as a specialist in DWP provision and is involved with promoting improved services for serving personnel and veterans such as the Armed Forces Veteran Friendly accreditation for GP practices. We hope what we are doing in several directions will make a difference to individuals and their mental health support locally.” All veterans are welcome at the Brew and Banter sessions which take place from 1830 1930 fortnightly (starting 13 July) on Wednesday in the MindSpace Hub, 39 Broad Street, Stamford. To book your place at the next meet-up (July 13), go to https://mindspacestamford. com/join-in Find out more at https:// mindspacestamford.com PHOTO: The monthly MindSpace Brew and Banter sessions for veterans in Stamford.
RAF WITTERING FAMILIES DAY
PHOTOS: Main: Air Vice-Marshal Suraya Marshall. Left: AVM Marshall visited RAF Wittering to conduct the Annual formal inspection.
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MindSpace Stamford Brew and Banter Veterans’Session
OPEN TO FRIENDS, FAMILIES & CONTRACTORS OF RAF WITTERING PHOTO: RAF Wittering’s gate A Flying Display It’s-a-Knockout Bird of Prey displays Band of RAFC Cranwell Various food vendors and stalls
guardian – GR9 Harrier.
Wittering’s Got Talent!
Wittering young person Honey Fleming was featured on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent as part of the Armed Forces Children’s Choir. Honey (13), whose dad Lt Col Leigh Fleming is the Commanding Officer of 20 Works Group on Station, joined the choir around 18 months ago. The choir was formed by the charity Never Such Innocence which aims to give children a voice on conflict. The choir, made up of members from forces families, sang the song ‘Welcome Home’ which had been written by two children with forces connections. Honey’s mum Tamsin said: “The charity is lovely, and
Honey has also got involved with some of their online poetry workshops and art competitions. The children did not know they were going to be invited onto BGT. Simon Cowell surprised them at a London rehearsal and asked them to audition. Since then they have had to keep it secret until the show aired. It has all been very exciting for Honey!” The choir, which received four ‘Yeses’ on the show, are now waiting for the reveal show as to whether they will go through to the semi-finals. PHOTO: The Armed Forces Children’s Choir on stage at Britain’s Got Talent with pictures of Honey and her dad Lt Col Leigh Fleming on the screen behind.
Support Force Assists International Conference
Pic credit: SAC Matthew Jenkins.
Caroline Defies Age to Complete Officer Training Flying Officer Caroline Newton, a Support Force Training Officer, has proved to the world that age is no barrier to career progression or success in the RAF. International Women's Day is a global day in March celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. At 52 years old Caroline pursued a commission, graduated from the same programme as her younger course mates, and became a Royal Air Force Officer. Having completed her phase two training, Flying Officer Newton is the Training Officer for No 85 Expeditionary Logistics Wing, part of the RAF Support Force. Caroline grew up in Lincolnshire and after college joined the military. Over the next 34 years she served her country in some of the most remote and demanding locations including Northern Ireland, Iraq and the Falklands. But after more than three decades as an enlisted servicewoman Caroline made the decision to become an officer. Personnel from RAF Wittering assisted with the international conference of Joint Expeditionary Force Defence Ministers at Belvoir Castle. The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) is a group of ten nations from northern Europe, led by the UK, which aims to increase cooperation in defence areas. The other participating nations are; Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. Belvoir Castle is less than 30 miles from RAF Wittering, the headquarters of the RAF Support Force and A4 Force Elements, so with their proven track record in transport and logistic support, Support Force personnel were the obvious choice to assist the conference. Flying Officer Chris Smale, a logistics officer from Support Force HQ, was among the military liaison officers on duty at Belvior Castle. He said: “A lot of planning was needed. With an event like this, everything must run
She said: “For the first six weeks of officer training I kept really quiet. I was the oldest person there, and I’d been in for 34 years so I wanted to blend in as best I could and not stick out like a sore thumb. But I quickly realised the influence that I had, because I was 52 and could keep going, the other students, who were half my age HAD to keep going. And they were so encouraging, never once did I think about giving up. Battle-PT was a nightmare though.” Flying Officer Newton is also a qualified yoga teacher and is bringing her love of this exercise to the Royal Air Force. She said: “Yoga fits within our strategy of building fitness, emotional and psychological wellness and resilience. It can bring about a more focussed attention, a greater energy within the body, enables increased fitness, flexibility, strength, co-ordination and balance. It can also have a great impact on your mindfulness.” PHOTO: Flying Officer Caroline Newton. Image by SAC Kimberley Waterson smoothly and on-schedule. The UK was the host nation, and this was a very important meeting, so it’s all got to run like clockwork.” The Support Force provided 11 liaison officers from the A4 Force Elements and RAF Wittering Station personnel. Nearly 30 drivers from No 1 Expeditionary Logistics Squadron and No 2 Mechanical Transport Squadron safely conveyed the visiting ministers and the world’s media to and from the venue. In addition, several guards from Wittering were on duty at the JEF conference. Group Captain Nick Huntley, Commanding Officer of the A4 Force and Deputy Commander of the RAF Support Force, said: “The smooth running and security of this event was due entirely to our personnel, and their expertise and professionalism. They have done the Defence community proud and are a credit to the RAF.” PHOTO: The combined team from the Support Force, RAF Wittering, and Support Force HQ at the JEF Conference. SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 13
NEWS In brief
New
Station Warrant Officer At RAF Wittering
Smart Award
2021 Outstanding contributions and selfless courage have earned Military Provost Guardsman, Private Sean Wynne, the Royal Air Force Wittering Smart Award for 2021. This award is named in memory of Senior Aircraftman James Smart, who sadly lost his life during Operation ELLAMY in 2011. The award is presented only to those holding a junior rank who have performed exceptionally in the preceding calendar year. The winner is drawn from a shortlist of 12 personnel who have received the Station Commander’s Monthly Award for Outstanding Achievement. Private Wynne’s achievements throughout 2021 have been exemplary and he has continually demonstrated the best traditions and values of the British Army. The Military Provost Guard Service (MPGS) is part of the Army and is responsible for maintaining security at British Armed Forces locations throughout Great Britain. In July 2021 Sean displayed inspirational courage by risking his own life to save a badly injured, unconscious member of the public from a damaged and burning vehicle on the southbound A1.
14 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
It was a complicated rescue, with the vehicle angled down a steep embankment at night after crashing into the trees. After rescuing the casualty from the vehicle and safely moving them to the roadside, Private Wynne provided first aid until the emergency services arrived. Private Wynne said: “I only did what anyone else would have done. There was a situation, a person was hurt, and I needed to deal with that situation as quickly as possible. There are times when your training just kicks in and that was one of those times, I was lucky because my training allowed me to help.” Sean is no stranger to physical exercise and has taken on two of Britain’s best-known challenges. In April 2021 Sean completed a Land’s End to John O’Groats challenge, walking 874 miles to raise money for National Association For Children Of Alcoholics (NACOA), a charity of his choice. In October he completed the London Marathon, once again raising money for NACOA. In December after attending to a junior serviceperson who was suffering with personal mental health problems, Private Wynne took it upon himself to check they were well over the festive period. During this time Sean came into work on his days off and delivered
festive treats for his colleagues on Guard Duty to boost Christmas morale. The Smart Award was presented to Private Wynne at the Station’s regular Honours & Awards Ceremony by the Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Gloria Johnson. The award is marked by the presentation of a silver salver. The salver was commissioned by Stamford Town Council to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the granting of the freedom of Stamford to RAF Wittering and was received by RAF Wittering in July 2011 following a parade. It was agreed with the then Mayor of Stamford, that presenting the salver to the winner of the Smart Award would be a fitting gesture. RAF Wittering’s Station Commander Wing Commander Jez Case said: “Sean has displayed outstanding levels of courage and compassion. For his admirable service to RAF Wittering and the community, and his selfless and courageous action under extreme pressure, Private Wynne has consistently demonstrated the exceptional personal qualities that make him a worthy recipient of the Smart Award.” PHOTO: Stamford Mayor Coun Gloria Johnson presents the Smart Award to Private Sean Wynne.
Discipline and standards have a new face at Royal Air Force Wittering as Warrant Officer Darren Rose becomes the new Station Warrant Officer. Originally from Yorkshire, Mr Rose joined the RAF on the Youth Training Scheme in 1987 as a 16-year-old trainee Chef. It’s a career that has seen many highlights, notably in 2012 when, as a sergeant, he was part of the team that fed military personnel during the London Olympic games. Before becoming Station Warrant Officer (SWO), Mr Rose was the Squadron Warrant Officer for No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS). He said: “3MCS is the career pinnacle for anyone who works in RAF catering. It’s the challenge and the availability of range in what you do that absolutely makes this the job for Chefs and Stewards.” Mr Rose takes over from Warrant Officer David Bedells, who has been the acting SWO for the last four months, following the departure of Warrant Officer Hywel Greening. Mr Bedells said: “I loved it and have also learned so much in that time. It is an inspiring
Hay Fever
by Noël Coward
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
position and having dipped my toes in, I would definitely pursue this kind of role again.” Responsible for the maintenance of discipline and standards, a SWO is the Station Commander’s eyes and ears. In addition to their many other duties, Station Warrant Officers also organise and direct official parades in the nearby towns and cities. Darren Rose is, by nature, a softly spoken man. When asked how he would acclimatise to the shouting that comes with directing a parade, he said: “If only you knew me when I was a Head Chef, I have the ability to turn up the volume and get things moving when I need to.” Warrant Officer Rose has spent around 11 of his 34 years in the RAF at Wittering, and understands the Station and its people. He said: “You have to appreciate the demands that personnel working in deployable squadrons face and have enough experience and empathy to understand those challenges.”
Mr Rose continued: “To become a Station Warrant Officer was always a career aspiration, to do that job at RAF Wittering is an honour and I would choose to be the SWO at no other station.” Station Commander Wing Commander Jez Case said: “I am pleased to welcome Warrant Officer Rose as the new Station Warrant Officer. He brings a wealth of experience and in-depth knowledge of RAF Wittering and I know his dedication and hard work will benefit the Station and local community. My sincere thanks go to Warrant Officer Greening for his exceptional service to the Royal Air Force and Wittering, and to Warrant Officer Bedells who has been a first-rate Acting Station Warrant Officer since January.”
Spider’s Web by Agatha Christie
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
TOLETHORPE HALL
7 June – 27 August 2022
PHOTOS: Top: Warrant Officer Darren Rose, Station Warrant Officer at RAF Wittering. Bottom: Warrant Officer Rose takes the SWO’s official cane from Warrant Officer Bedells.
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feature station heritage centre
Dramatic shot of the GR7A. Pic: Rob Trewinnard-Boyle.
Station Heritage Centre
Photographic Event The RAF Wittering Heritage Centre hosted a group of 76 aviation photographers and gave them the opportunity to photograph its four Harrier aircraft in a special photographic day. The event, organised in conjunction with the Centre of Aviation Photography, began at Vigo Wood where the P1127 and GR3 were situated. The latter was positioned in a hide that had been constructed with the help of 3 Mobile
Pic: Rob Trewinnard-Boyle.
16 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
Catering Squadron. The setting was made more realistic by the presence of several other props and some re-enactors who played the roles of both ground crew and aircrew. After two hours the photographers had a break for lunch and a chance to visit the Heritage Centre while the aircraft were repositioned to join the T4 and GR7 on the main Aircraft Servicing Platform. Once again, the re-enactors provided additional interest and as the light faded towards
Harrier GR3 and pilot hide.
the end of the day there Pic: Rob Trewinnard-Boyle. was the opportunity to take some very moody pictures. Sqn Ldr Andy Tagg, Officer in Command of the RAF Wittering’s Heritage Centre, said: “The day was a huge success for all involved but for some, was an extremely long one; by the time the aircraft had been put back in the Hangar several members of the Heritage Centre’s staff had been at Wittering for 14 hours!”
The Station Heritage Centre Photographic event.
About Wittering’s
Heritage Centre Originally known as Stamford Aerodrome, Royal Air Force Wittering was first declared operational in December 1916 as part of the air defence of the UK against German Zeppelins.
Harrier P1127 at sunset. Pic: Rob Trewinnard-Boyle.
Members of RAF Wittering’s Heritage Centre Committee.. Pic: Rob Trewinnard-Boyle.
Following closure in 1920 and a period of major reconstruction, Wittering reopened in 1926 and was home to the Central Flying School. As WW2 approached the Station became part of Fighter Command and its squadrons participated in the Battle of Britain. In 1942 RAF Wittering was joined with the nearby airfield of RAF Collyweston and became the longest flarepath equipped landing strip in England. At the end of the Second World War, RAF Wittering was put into care and maintenance while it prepared for the Arrival of Bomber Command. In July 1955 Vickers Valiants arrived which were replaced in 1962 by Handley Page Victor B2s, armed with Blue Steel stand-off nuclear missiles. As the Royal Navy took over responsibility for the UK’s nuclear deterrent in 1968 the Victors moved out of Wittering and were replaced by the Harrier, which remained until December 2010. In 2006 the Royal Air Force’s Air Combat Service Support Units relocated from RAF Stafford to RAF Wittering and in 2007, befitting its new role as the RAF’s logistics hub, the Station Commander was, for the first time in history, from a non-aircrew branch. RAF Wittering ceased to be an operational airfield in 2011 but was reopened in 2014 when four squadrons flying the Grob Tutor arrived to conduct elementary flying training. RAF Wittering personnel serve around the clock and around the world to defend the UK and its interests. They
provide expeditionary logistics and engineering support to UK military operations and exercises, acting as a force for good, strengthening peace and stability across the globe. The Royal Air Force Wittering Heritage Centre was opened on November 13, 2014 as an enduring historical legacy to the last active RAF airbase in Cambridgeshire and provides a fitting tribute to all personnel who have served there. The Centre aims to create an interactive facility and engage with the local community, encouraging schools, colleges, cadet forces, veteran’s groups, and other associations to visit and learn about the rich history of Royal Air Force Wittering. There are numerous items of interest to look at including four different marks of Harrier aircraft, a Grob Tutor, air to air and air to ground weapons, Prisoner of War Association and No 5131(Bomb Disposal) Squadron displays and three rooms of historical information. The Centre is open to the public, by appointment only, every Wednesday from 10am to midday and again from 1pm to 3pm. Bookings outside of the normal opening times can be made, subject to operational commitments. If you would like to visit the Centre, please contact us at: Email: wittering.heritage. centre@gmail.com tel. 01780 417019. Follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ RAFWitteringHeritageCentre) SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 17
feature EX BLIZZWITT Red Arrows Photographer, SAC Katrina Knox, formerly of 504 Squadron at RAF Wittering.
© Chinch at shutterstock.com
Exercise
Blizzwitt In February the Force Development Squadron delivered Exercise Blizzwitt, a two-week Station skiing exercise in Austria.
Thirty-three Station and Force Elements personnel based themselves in the Alpendorf ski resort near St Johann Im Pongau, 45 minutes south of Salzburg. Over the two oneweek serials novice skiers, many of whom have not been on adventure training before, went from never standing on skis to being able to complete parallel turns while descending blue and red slopes. The aim of the exercise was to take the selected personnel, the vast majority of whom joined the Service during the Covid pandemic, and expose them to controlled risk through skiing. Individuals soon found themselves in interesting and stretching situations which quickly fostered teamwork and a sense of cheerfulness in the face of adversity or a face full of snow. The exercise was conducted in a pseudo operational manner further developing those who have yet to serve on operations. SAC Matthew Jenkins, a driver from 2MT Squadron who attended the first week of BlizzWitt, said: “ I thoroughly enjoyed myself on the trip. It gave me more confidence to push myself and learn a new skillset which I have not done before. The trip was amazing from start to finish, I think it is definitely worth getting on board and using trips like this to your advantage to be able to better yourself as a person.” Over the two-week exercise most personnel received Ski Foundation 1, a Joint Services Adventure Training qualification. SF1 aims to provide the skills required for a student to be a competent group member within 18 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
a recognised ski area. It consists of 20 per cent off-piste skiing and by the end of the week all students are confidently able to control their line and speed on a variety of different slopes. A few personnel with skiing experience completed SF2 which included a ski touring element. Cpl Elli Robinson said: “It was an enjoyable week learning the new skills of ski touring and improving my confidence on the slopes. We completed 40 per cent offpiste which was challenging but rewarding and it was nice to finish the week being able to cope with demanding environments while showing our ability using the new skiing techniques we have learned.“ Station Training Officer, Fg Off Alex Balch said: “This kind of training is fundamental in providing Service personnel the opportunity to develop resilience and team skills in preparation for Ops. Many of the skills and experiences gained on Ex Blizwitt directly correlate to those required for everything from navigating an MT convoy or using communication skills in running a busy deployed field kitchen. I hope this is the first of many skiing expeds at RAF Wittering under the banner of “BlizzWitt” and encourage all line managers to release their personnel for this high calibre training.” Force Development Sqn has already started planning for Ex Blizzwitt 2 with further announcements expected in October 2022.
Special Photographic Workshop
At Wittering
Making light work was the aim of a special workshop at Wittering as Station photographers shared skills and experience with their RAF colleagues. The workshop was the idea of Senior Aircraftman Kimberley Waterson. Originally from Consett in County Durham, Kimberley has been a qualified photographer for 17 years and has a degree from Derby University in Fine Art Photography. She said: “Being creative with lighting is a big passion of mine and I sometimes feel that we, as creators, can get stuck in our ways using the same lighting set-up for each portrait we do. Bringing us together means that we can share ideas and keep things fresh.” RAF Photographers play a varied range of roles, capturing everything from aerial reconnaissance images to public relations portraits. They can also gather photographic evidence for engineering, security and accident investigations, and shoot video training films. The workshop started in RAF Wittering’s Embry Room, named for the Station’s most famous commander, Air Chief Marshal Sir Basil Edward Embry. The ten visiting photographers began the day by using their favourite lighting set-ups, and then worked with variations of colours and brightness to create different artistic effects. SAC Waterson took a tenyear career break, working as a freelance photographer before returning as an RAF Regular. She is in no doubt about the quality of her RAF training, and values her time working in the private sector. Kim said: “RAF Photographers are really well
trained, and we have great support from our branch. My ten-year break gave me a chance to learn new skills and ways of working with light, hopefully I can share that experience with my colleagues, and we can learn from each other too.” For one photographer, the workshop meant a return to the Station where her RAF career began. Katrina Knox joined 504 (County of Nottingham) Squadron as a reservist, before becoming a regular. SAC Knox is now a photographer with the Red Arrows. Katrina said: “I was brought up in Wittering and my RAF career has taken me further afield, but it's always nice to come back. Working with my fellow photographers is always a pleasure, especially if I’ve not worked with them before.”
SAC Katrina Knox and workshop organiser SAC Kimberley Waterson (left to right).
Photographers working with lighting and background.
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REGULARS COMMUNITY News
Community News Community Support
Outreach sessions - The CS Team will be in the CLC+ building (near the Millennium Park) every Tuesday from 0900-1200, where we will be joined by RAF Police and the housing estate officer. If you have any queries or questions, please come to see us or just pop in to say hello. Please check the latest advice about COVID 19: https://www.raf.mod.uk/coronavirus/ SSAFA Support
Paula Finch, tel. 07825 016 853 or email paula.finch@ssafa.org.uk (available Mon – Fri), Maddie Edgar, tel. 07584 230805 or email Maddie.edgar@ssafa.org.uk There is also a 24-hour number that you can call, tel. 03000 111 723 or visit their website https://www.ssafa.org.uk/ Deployment Support The Community Support Team is looking forward to upcoming deployment support activities. If your son/daughter/partner is currently deployed or is going to be deployed to a qualifying location, please send an email to Sophie about upcoming activities or if you would like to claim the Families Welfare vouchers as an alternative. Facebook For all the latest information, the team is regularly posting on the Wittering View and RAF Wittering HIVE Facebook pages.
Please note this information was correct at the time of going to press, however as the situation is changing on a daily basis at present, please visit the Wittering View Facebook Page for all the up to minute news and information.
20 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
Stay Security Savvy During the warmer months, we open our windows more frequently to ventilate our homes.
The Community Support Team are returning to the office on a phased return. We are available during normal working hours should you or your family have any specific enquiries. The team’s contact details are below.
Wittering has two Personal and Family Support Workers. If you need their help please contact
On The Beat with RAF Police
Free Advice Clinics at the HIVE Financial Education & Information – Andy from PAX can be found in the SSAFA/Welfare corridor on the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 0930-1400, drop-in or call and make an appointment directly with Andy on tel. 07583 145 836 – he can assist with debt counselling and financial education to name a few areas.
It is recommended to inspect the condition of windows, checking all seals and locks work effectively and that laminated glass or security film is used for ground floor or accessible windows for an extra layer of protection. Windows can be fitted with opening restrictors which allow ventilation while ensuring they cannot be unlocked from the outside. When leaving properties unoccupied, residents are reminded to secure all windows to decrease opportunities for criminals to access their belongings. Security lighting acts as a good deterrent and should be installed around property access points, allowing residents to feel safer when coming and going after dark.
Cambridgeshire Police - 999 (emergency) or 101 (nonemergency) Online Reporting Tool www.cambs.police.uk/ro/ report/ocr/af/how-to-report-acrime/ RAF Police – tel. 95351 x 7087 or 01780 417087 Confidential Crime Line – tel. 0800 432 0771 MPGS – tel. 95351 x 7227 or 01780 417227
Buckles Solicitors offers free 30-minute appointments on family law matters. If you wish to speak to our Solicitor, please email or call Sophie at the HIVE (sophie.west102@mod. gov.uk), who will pass your details to Bev to arrange a time for a phone consultation. We do not have access to a Citizens Advice Rutland adviser anymore, but the local office is more than happy to receive calls and queries from Wittering residents should you need support. Visit www.rutlandcab.org.uk or tel. 01572 723494.
A clear, low white light that activates from dusk to dawn is ideal for lighting a front yard or garden and illuminates any person within its vicinity. Lighting should not be obscured by any trees or plants and occupants are reminded to routinely cut vegetation back to limit shaded areas. Individuals are encouraged to report all criminal offences / suspicious activity to either the RAF Police or alternatively to Cambridgeshire Police via the following means:
Useful Contacts Service Community Support Officer - WO Neil Paylor tel. 07976 206569 or email neil.paylor660@mod.gov.uk HIVE Information Officer – Sophie West tel. 0300 169 0854 or email sophie.west102@mod.gov.uk Community Development Officer (CDO) – Mark Davis – tel. 07976 208806 or email mark.davis955@bc.mod.gov.uk Community Support Administration Officer – Emma Stacey – tel. 0300 167 0991 or email emma.stacey593@mod.gov.uk
Useful Websites https://www.rafbf.org/newsand-blogs/fund-responsecovid-19 https://www.cambridgeshire. gov.uk/residents/coronavirus/ covid-19-coordination-hubyour-community-needs-you https://www.peterborough. gov.uk/healthcare/publichealth/coronavirus https://www. peterboroughmatters.co.uk/
Inspirational Duo Recognised Padre’s Corner This year sees the 40th Anniversary of the Falklands War when our Armed Forces won a decisive conflict against the invading Argentinian Forces, at great distance and in extremely challenging conditions. In October 2018 I was privileged to deploy to the Falklands as Chaplain to the Joint Forces stationed there. Having followed the conflict as a 17-year-old as it unfolded, I was eager to go to the key sites where the fighting took place. The more places and memorial sites I visited the more amazed I was at how our forces, with determination, sacrifice, skill and great courage, had been able to take back the islands. With significant losses on both sides the cemeteries and memorials remain hugely significant places for the loved ones of those who died and are tended with great care by serving personnel based at the Mount Pleasant Complex. Because Argentina consider the Falklands to be theirs, they were reluctant to allow their troops who fell in battle on the island to be repatriated to the mainland. They argued that they didn’t need to be repatriated because they were buried in what they considered to be Argentinian land. One Argentinian widow, however, wanted to fulfil the wishes of her husband who, on leaving their home to go to war, made her promise that if he didn’t survive she would bring his body back to be buried beside their first son who, as an infant, had tragically died some years before. For 35 years she wrote to the authorities, both Argentinian and British, requesting the return of his remains to mainland Argentina. Eventually, in 2018, her plea was granted, and so she came with her now grown-up children to attend
a memorial service in Mount Pleasant Chapel with full military honours, led by the Roman Catholic priest from Stanley. To see the coffin draped with the Argentinian flag in the Chapel, and carried out by RAF pall bearers, was a powerful and moving moment. At the reception held by the Commandant after the service, and prior to them leaving the island with their loved one, the family expressed their huge gratitude to all those who had made this possible. Here was a rare moment of reconciliation between those caught up and deeply affected by the conflict, over what, to this day, the Argentinians claim to be their own. The Falklands remain a British overseas territory and rightly so. And we give thanks for the heroic sacrifices made by our personnel in securing the islands and liberating the traumatised and innocent islanders, many of whom still bear the emotional scars of what happened 40 years ago. We honour those who laid down their lives, and those who sustained life-changing injuries, and who to this day live with the effect of those wounds. Let us live, and if necessary, die, for that which we believe to be right and just and true, and in particular for the protection of innocent lives. And let us honour those who did just that on our behalf. But with that, and where possible, let us be ready to be reconciled with those who, perhaps, were once our enemies, but seek to put the past behind them, and move on to make new beginnings. For with forgiveness comes true freedom.
Station Youth Worker Sharon Pollard is presented with her Air Officer Commanding Number 2 Group commendation by Air Vice-Marshal Suraya Marshall.
RAF Wittering Station Youth Worker Sharon Pollard and her daughter Rhianna have both been formally recognised for their significant contribution and work with Service children and young people on Station. The pair were presented with their awards at ceremonies earlier in the year. Sharon, who has worked tirelessly with Service children and young people for over 10 years, received an Air Officer Commanding Number 2 Group Commendation. During the pandemic she was part of the central Airplay delivery team that offered fun virtual sessions to young people from Wittering, across the UK and as a far away as Germany and Gibraltar. When COVID allowed, she offered outside activities to young people in small groups enabling them to spend time
with their friends in a COVID-safe environment. Meanwhile daughter Rhianna, who is now at university, received a Deputy Support Force Commander’s Commendation for her achievements as an active member of the Project Tuesday Youth Forum where she was the lead for young people in the developing and planning of new play parks on Station. She was also the Co-Chair of RAF Wittering Children & Young People Board, providing the voice for young people on Station. Community Development Officer Mark Davis said: “Sharon and Rhianna are inspirational. They have both dedicated their time, energy and enthusiasm to serve the community and have made an outstanding contribution to the children and young people of RAF Wittering.”
Padre Andrew Tucker Community Development Officer Mark Davis with Rhianna Pollard.
SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 21
REGULARS Community NEWS
Help – We Need You! Let’s start with some good news, the welfare of our service personnel and families has always been our priority. We are lucky at RAF Wittering to have a new full time Personal Family Support Worker (PFSW) so let me introduce Maddie Edgar who started with us back in March, welcome to the team Maddie. I am sat in my office listening to the wind howling and the rain coming down, dreaming of my much-awaited holiday in the summer. Hopefully with the easing of restrictions and travel, you will be able to go away, recharge the batteries and spend some time with others at last. Although restrictions have eased it doesn’t mean everything has gone back to normal, it’s understandable with all the changes over the previous two years life seems a little different still. Some may still be adjusting to returning to work and being in social spaces again, here at SSAFA we provide a safe confidential environment to talk through some of your concerns or worries. Please don’t sit and ponder - have a wander over to see us. You will find us in Welfare Corridor with the Padre (near the coffee shop). Sometimes just being able to talk things through when issues first start can stop them turning into something bigger. We are hoping to get out on
Airplay EASTER the Station more in the coming months so you will be able to put faces to the names. We are trying desperately to recruit some much-needed volunteers and reinvigorate the In-Service Volunteer Project at RAF Wittering. Training is provided, and we don’t expect you to be on standby every day; you can specify days/hours that you want to commit. What we need is people who want to help others with a lot of our work going unrecognised due to its confidential nature. Having said that there are opportunities to raise awareness of the work we do at events such as Families’ Day. We also raise funds, but those funds stay on the Station and we use them for our service personnel and families that may need a little support at a difficult time. There are committee posts and general volunteering available, please contact us for more information. Have a fantastic Summer and I look forward to meeting some of you either at events or as we make our way around the Station. Remember it’s good to talk! Paula and Maddie. Paula Finch - paula.finch@ ssafa.org.uk, tel. 07825 016853. Maddie Edgar - Maddie.edgar@ ssafa.org.uk, tel. 07584 230805.
Volunteers are needed to reinvigorate the In-Service Volunteer Project at RAF Wittering.
FUN
Congratulations to Emily, Leila and Lottie Petroczuk who swept the board in the Youth Club’s Design an Easter Egg Competition. They each won a yummy chocolate Easter egg!
AIRPLAY TUESDAY
PROJECT TUESDAY YOUTH FORUM Have your Say Contact SYW for more details 18:15 - 19:00 SENIORS Year 8 and over £1.50 Youth House 18-20 St Georges Road 19:00 - 21:00
WEDNESDAY SEVENS Year 7 only £1.50 Youth House 18-20 St Georges Road 18:30 - 20:30
THURSDAY YOUTH CLUB JUNIORS Age 8 to school year 6 £1.50 Community Centre, RAF Wittering 18:30 - 20:50
VOLUNTEER 22 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
For more information please contact: Station Youth Worker Sharon.pollard@ymcatrinity.co.uk Tel: 07521390613 CDO Mark.davis955@mod.gov.uk
E a s y R e s e t t l e m e n t
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SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 23
REGULARS tea break time
TEA BREAK TIME
Spot The Difference Can you spot the 10 differences in these two photographs?
I do like to be beside the seaside…
TEA BREAK TIME Answers at the bottom of page 26.
Wordsearch
We all love a trip to the seaside, especially if the notorious British weather’s in our favour. Are the following seaside related statements true or false? 1. The current Guinness World Record for the largest serving of fish and chips was set on 9 February 2018. It weighed 54.99kg (121lb 3oz) and was made by Resorts World Birmingham. 2. The first pier constructed in the UK was at Sandown on the Isle of Wight.
Wedding Hut beach hut in Bournemouth. 6. Picture postcards were made available in 1874. 7. Deltiology, or postcard collecting, is the third most popular hobby in the world.
3. Automated machinery can make 100 lettered sticks of rock in one minute.
8. The longest pier in the UK that is still open is in Southend. It stretches 1.34 miles over the Thames estuary.
4. The classic deckchair can only be locked in one position.
9. Britain’s first illuminations were in Morecambe, not Blackpool.
5. The only place in the UK where you can legally marry on a beach is at the
10. At a distance of 84 miles, Lichfield is the England’s furthest town from the sea.
24 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
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the perfect location for your wedding, summer ball or party
With a formal dining room, light and airy conservatory, private dining spaces, courtyard and cottage gardens for al fresco dining, there is plenty of choice to enjoy a delicious meal or meet up with friends and family.
Now in its 32nd year of trading since it was converted from a centuries-old farmhouse, Barnsdale Lodge Hotel has 46 individually decorated bedrooms with views of the countryside and private courtyard, as well as a plethora of original features including flagstone hallways, sashCentrally windows and cast-iron located in thestoves.
glorious Rutland countryside
The quality of the rooms, food, and and part of thesuperb Extonvalue Estate location, represents for money, and locally sourced produce forms the basis of the restaurant’s sumptuous lovingly created by a Thedishes, Avenue, Exton, passionately talented kitchen brigade.
Rutland LE15 8AH tel: 01572 724678
events@barnsdalelodge.co.uk
www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk
The Barn Function Suite backs on to the croquet lawn with views of Rutland Water and caters for weddings and events for up to 150 seated guests, with a specialist events team taking care of everything from planning to the big day.
With log burners, sedum roofs and smart finishes, the Retreats are ideal staycation accommodation for families. Each one has open plan living and dining spaces, two bathrooms, master bedrooms with French doors that open onto the garden and a patio.
Call 01572 724678 or visit barnsdalelodge.co.uk to find out more about everything they have to offer.
And nestled in nature within a gated estate, just a stone’s throw away from the hotel, are Rutland Retreats, Barnsdale Lodge is the ideal venue to host your special event for up ot 150 pe the hotel’s stunning twoOur and experienced event co-ordinator can take care of all your needs to ensu three-bed selfyou and your guests have a memorable time from start to finish. catering cottages. • 46 ensuite bedrooms ~ singles, twins and doubles • Delicious, fresh and local, award winning food • Cosy sitting rooms • 17 beautiful self-catering Retreats WITTERING VIEW 25 • The Barn (with bar & kitchen) •SUMMER Private2022 picturesque courtyard
REGULARS
Name: Marie Goss Role: Hair stylist at RAF Wittering Marital Status: Married
In the 1. What part of your job gives you the most satisfaction? The social interaction. I love meeting people and making someone feel better about themselves. 2. And the least? Hair in every crack and crevice… 3. What is the best advice you have ever received? I’ve heard lots of advice over the years but the best one is ‘What goes up must come down!’. Remember to be nice to people on your way up. 4. Describe yourself in six words? Loyal, steadfast, tenacious, stubborn, optimistic, and kind. 5. What career would you have followed if you had not pursued your current profession? Nurse – I like to look after people. 6. Is there one piece of criticism that sticks in your mind? I’m my own worst critic so the
Seat chances are it’s something I’ve told myself!
Prawn Spring Roll Wraps 11. Who do you most admire in the world? My dad.
7. What would be your first act as world leader? I would make childcare more accessible and affordable to the masses. 8. Name your desert island essentials? Tweezers, a cow (need milk) and some rope. (Editor’s note – we aren’t sure how Marie plans to store the milk or what the rope is for, and as for the tweezers…) 9. How would you change the MOD? I still think there is a stigma that relates to mental health and there really shouldn’t be. The MOD needs to work on this. 10. What food would you choose for your last supper? I would have lamb and mint gravy with new potatoes and green beans. And then for dessert I would like crème brulee, washed down with an Espresso Martini.
12. Name four people you would like as a dinner guest – and why? Freddie Mercury - because his stories and recollections would be amazing. Jason Momoa - no explanation needed. Greg Davies – because he is the greatest storyteller. Miriam Margolyes – to put anyone who got out of hand at the party back in their place. 13. What one piece of music would you like played at your funeral? Cyndi Lauper – True Colors. 14. How would you like to be remembered? As someone people could depend on.
Tea time break answers
1. True. 2. False, it was Ryde. 3. False, it is still done by hand and the skill can take up to 10 years to perfect. Modern machinery is still not up to the task. 4. True.
26 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
5. True. 6. False, it was 1894. 7. False, it’s the second most popular. 8. True. 9. True. 10. True.
Missing word: MARGATE
These tasty bites make a great light lunch or snack. Perfect for summer picnics. Serves 4 Ingredients: • 1 bundle of dried thread rice noodles (approx. 60g) • 1 tbsp sunflower oil • 300g pack fresh stir-fry vegetables – go for a leafy mix • Half finger-length fresh root ginger – grated • Small bunch of coriander, stalks finely sliced, leaves roughly chopped • 200g raw peeled prawns, halved • 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce, plus extra to serve as dip • 8 small sheets filo pastry • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional) Method: 1. Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/ gas 7. 2. Cook the noodles according to instructions on the pack. Heat one teaspoon of oil in a large wok or frying pan. Stir-fry the vegetables, coriander stalks and ginger for three to four minutes. Add the prawns in for one minute until pink and then stir in the sweet chilli sauce, coriander leaves and noodles. Remove from heat. 3. Brush four sheets of filo with a little of the oil, then place the remaining sheets on top. Pile a quarter of the prawn mixture along the narrow edge of each sheet, fold over the edges and then roll up to give your four large spring rolls. 4. Brush with the remaining oil, sprinkle with sesame seeds (if desired) and then bake on a baking sheet, seam-side down for 15 minutes until golden and crisp. 5. Serve with a green salad and a chilli sauce dip.
SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 27
feature 3MCS lead RAF Graduation
Wittering Chefs Lead Catering
For RAF Graduation The combined RAF catering team at RAF Cranwell.
More than 500 officers, aviators and guests were fed by No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron from RAF Wittering during a super-graduation at RAF Cranwell in April. The combined parade was comprised of more than 500 Officers and Aviators that had graduated from their initial training during the COVID Pandemic period, when families, friends and loved ones were restricted from attending the graduation parades. His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales was the Reviewing Officer. Acting Warrant Officer (A/ WO) Reece Holt led a team of 30 chefs and stewards from No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS) and the wider Royal Air Force, supported by the engineers of 5001 Squadron. A/WO Holt said: “It was big logistical challenge; we haven’t fed that many people since the Capability Evaluation at RAF Leeming last year. But we were equal to it.” Over the six days of rehearsals and the graduation parade itself, the 3MCS team prepared approximately 10,500 meals, serving around 600 people at each sitting. An English breakfast was available every morning, with five choices at dinner including a vegetarian option. If that doesn’t sound busy enough, the lunch service saw 600 personnel served in less than an hour; an amazing achievement which was faultlessly maintained during the six days. A/WO Holt, who lists his grandmother and Marco Pierre White as his two biggest influences, was in no doubt about the importance of the task. He said: “We had to offer popular choices that covered what people want to eat, but you can’t do too many options. We did homemade 28 WITTERING VIEW SUMMER 2022
breads and accompaniments so we could offer a full dining experience.” Initially formed in 1975 as the RAF Mobile Catering Support Unit, 3MCS has been supporting exercises and operations for over 40 years. The Squadron regularly supports fast jet deployments and can offer immediate support to aircraft crash situations. The 3MCS personnel and their counterparts from the wider Royal
Air Force formed a highly effective team, getting up to speed in an impressively short time. RAF caterers travelled from every corner of the country for the event, even from as far afield as Boulmer in Northumberland. The combined parade was a great success and enabled the RAF’s newest personnel to celebrate their achievements. The parade also recognised the crucial part families, friends and loved
Sgt Scotty Marks and Flt Sgt Carl Findon from 3MCS.
ones play in the development and success of RAF personnel. Squadron Leader Sara Jones commands No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron. She said: “The team deserves nothing less than full credit for this, it is an astonishing achievement to ensure that so many people were properly fed for this parade. They did an amazing job, more than 10,000 delicious and nutritious meals prepared and served. They are a credit to the RAF.”
Group Captain Nick Huntley is Commanding Officer of the A4 Force Elements, the specialist engineering and logistics squadrons of which 3MCS is a part. He said: “My sincere thanks to A/WO Holt, Flight Sergeant Carl Findon and the entire team for their work in preparing and delivering the catering for this celebratory parade. Working in a kitchen under this kind of pressure, for an important event like this is no mean feat. My congratulations and thanks go to everyone involved.” All images by Mr Paul Saxby.
SAC Liam Chappelow.
O
o M r n n ing e p
Casterton Nursery Where Children reach the stars
Saturday 11th June 2022 10.00am - 12.00 noon
Follow Us &
Casterton Nursery, Casterton College Rutland, Ryhall Road, Great Casterston, Rutland, PE9 4AT 01780 754780
SUMMER 2022 WITTERING VIEW 29
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