ISW Table Top

Stn News

ISW TOP TABLE

On the 3rd of March ISW personnel gathered at the Warrant Officer’s and SNCO’s Mess to celebrate the careers and service departure for several service personnel on the Wing. The event organised by Wycombe World’s very own editor A/Cpl Nick Koppanen, Sgt Kim Ackroyd and Cpl Curtis Beel consisted of a 3-course carvery, topped off by a port to the Queen.

We heard leaving speeches from Daniel ‘Lips’ Phillips and Sqn Ldr Nick Bolan. Lips served 19 years as an ICT Technician, reaching the rank of Corporal before sadly leaving. He was gifted with a plaque, handed to him by his previous SNCO, FS Steven Monks who thanked him for his hard work.

Sqn Ldr Bolan also spoke of his 17years in the RAF. Bolan began his career as a potential Pilot reaching Basic Fast Jet training. Sadly, his flying career was cut but he found his way in to the Eng Officer (CE) branch where he spent much of his time here at RAF High Wycombe but also a handful of unique overseas tours and postings such as Virginia Beach in the US. Bolan was well respected within the squadron and will be surely missed. We wish both the best of luck on Civvy Street!

Awards were also handed out to D2X and to Networks for work carried out on station to allow Stn Personnel to operate from home during COVID.

To wrap up the evening everyone moved through to the bar where Cpl Beel set up a karaoke area. The microphone didn’t rest the entire evening as we heard duos from WO Matt Williams & Sgt Julie Arms, and Sqn Ldr Nick Bolan & the Wing’s OC, Wg Cdr Jon McMahaon, plus many, many more! This was the first real opportunity to have everyone in ISW gathered for an event post-COVID restrictions. It went off like a barn on fire and plans are already underway for more events later in the year.

A special thanks to the CMC WO Linda Clark, SWO WO Nicci Burdett, Mr Vice SAC Alfie Hepton, Mess Manager Ms Georgia Colby, the very courteous serving staff and the incredible Chef’s. Without the support of all the above the event would not have been able to happen. On behalf of all the Wing, we thank you!