ISSUE42019 THEMAGAZINEOFRAFBRIZENORTON - ISSUE 1, 2019 THE MAGAZINE OF RAF BRIZE NORTON - ROYAL AIR FORCE
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Issue 4 2019 The Magazine of RAF Brize Norton
facebook.com/RoyalAirForceBrizeNorton twitter.com/RAFBrizeNorton
Issue 1, 2019 The Magazine of RAF Brize Norton
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BRIZE NORTON MESSAGE FROM STN CDR
Issue 1, 2019 The Magazine of RAF Brize Norton
MESSAGE FROM STN CDR EDITOR’S FOREWORD
I had always hoped 4 Commander’s Message
that my tenure as the 6
5 Editor's Foreword
51 Degrees North Writing Competition
Welcome to
Station Commander News another bumper
10
Issue 1, 2019 The Magazine of RAF Brize Norton
29
would be marked by 7 A400m successfully completes first 30
packed edition of
Voluntary Band
Survival Evasion Resistance
EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor opportunities to speak10 Beach
RAF Brize Norton’s Mission
Prepare for and deliver global
Landing Trials with Military Crew 51Extraction
Degrees (SERE) North.
Flt (FD Squadron)
Air Mobility operations.
How does 1AMW recover the largest
positively; however, I
Our Shared Values
Ms Anita Jack exercise the British Military have been
Charity
We seek excellence in all we
weeks have been no exception, as witnessed
O
do to deliver world-class Air
Mobility, maintaining strong
part of for over 15 years?
Editorial Team
Mrs Stacey Evans
with everybody.
Our Vision
must pass on very sad 12 by
and effective relationships
numerous senior visitors including
RAF Falcons land firmly on UK soil
the Secretary of State for Defence, Chief 32 nceNorton
RAF Brize again the Station 2018km
Airman’s has
news on this occasion. of the Air Staff (Designate) and Deputy
after USA winter training been extremely busy;
Our vision is to Sustain
Flt Lt Dave Coombs Operational Excellence while
we Deliver Together Safely
Charity Run and Row Challenge
from charity events (well
14 Commander
W
Flt Lt Sarah Margetts and make Brize A Better
Place to Work and Live.
AirdropOperations.
to the edge of the Earth
I tremendously 32 Marking 75 years since the most
e have recently lost 2 of our
The focus areas for the next
appreciate all of the hard work that goes daringdone everyone),
operation of theD Second
Day World War
Editorial Contact 2 years are highlighted in the
Celebration involvement, recognitions
diagram; our team purpose
can be summed up as: team in the last few weeks into supporting these visits; our guests were 33 Logistics Squadron at RAF Brize Norton
51⁰ North Magazine in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List,
RAF Brize Norton
Make Brize Better as Squadron Leader Gaz extremely impressed with the whole team deliver presents to Helen & Douglas House
Together.
to 38 EAW completing their training
Carterton, Oxfordshire OX18 3LX Stevens, Voyager Force, and and our approach at Brize.
and standardisation, making them
Private Ross Thomas-Standing, Military Community
ready to deploy should they be called
Email: bzn-51degreesnorth@mod.gov.uk Provost Guard Service, who previously The last couple of months has been
Tel: 01993 896752 served on 47 Aerial Dispatch, were both marked by many achievements, including 35 uponSpot
during
thethe hurricane season. The
Difference
35 tempo has remained
Defence Movementas high as ever.
Training
killed in separate road traffic collisions. the Normandy D-Day 75 celebrations
We will sorely miss Gaz and Ross and our with a flypast over Portsmouth and the Squadron helping the environment
36 The Communications
RAF Brize NortonNetwork
FamiliesGroup
Day
facebook.com/RoyalAirForceBrizeNorton twitter.com/RAFBrizeNorton
Issue 9, 2018
heartfelt condolences go out to their Normandy Drops supported by 5 aircraft
PUBLISHING TEAM is now up and running. You can find
families during this tragic time. While this Team from Brize, alongside other RAF and allied 37 Air Mobility Force Development
12 28
details of who represents your Sqn/
awful news truly puts into perspective air forces. In addition, we have supported History Centre
Published 19 Wg on our share point page. This is an
Editorother recent challenges on the Station, we other4626 RAuxAF
important take part insuch
commitments the as
Military 38 Winter Driving
Lance Print Limited, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Reserves excellent way for you to touch base
must continue to think about the future Exercises SWIFTExchange
RESPONSEProgramme
and ARCTIC (MREP) 39 with Charity Bowling Night
Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL Sqn Ldr Mark Taylor 19 Padre’s Peace all your news, letting us share on
Tel: 01536 334222 while providing support to Gaz and Ross’ CHALLENGE, and we conducted the 2nd Air 39 widerDrone Safety
20 STEM Exercise of 2019 to deliver platforms as well as reducing
Email: mike@lanceprint.co.uk families, friends and all those touched by Concentration
missed opportunities to promote
Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk Deputy theirEditor
passing. 21
22
Falcons’
parachute
aheadMy to trip
FocusWe are also now looking
training.
to France
support forWESTERN
Exercise the Armistice
HAWK
Adventure
what we do here&
onSport
base; what
Advertising NEWS CHARITY Flt Lt Most
DaveofCoombs
you will know that the Station 24 Ex Falcons’
(supporting Leap
the Red 2018 deploying
Arrows 40 you do is of
PE’d great interest to a wide
Flight
audience, both at home and abroad.
Leonard
4624 Squadron Combined Graduation & Medal Let Them eat cake has been dealing with numerous 27 to theForce
US) and, of course, Operation
Development Squadron 42 RAF Brize Norton Kart Club
Tel: 01536 680414 If you are interested in joining the
Ceremony ..................................................................................................21 infrastructure
Magazine Co-Ord challenges and despite the CARIBBEAN, ourto
Staff Ride standby response
the Somme to natural
Battlefields 44 The 2018 Brize Norton ‘Turkey Trot’
Email: leonard@lanceprint.co.uk Communications Network, please do
..............................................................................................08 206 Squadron Raise money for Macmillan disruption to normal working patterns, disaster relief. We have also commemorated
and Ypres Exercise SOMME DISCOVERY Cross Country run
Flt Lt ISarah Margetts get in touch.
Queens Birthday Honours 2019 ..................................................................................................21 have been hugely impressed with the the loss of the crew of C130K XV193 on 46 The Challenge Inter Ecoles de
Designer
..............................................................................................09 Thames Challenge Event 2019 resilience, flexibility and stoic nature of 23 May 1993 by planting a memorial tree Parachutisme (CIEP)
Amanda Robinson ..................................................................................................22 We have seen a steady flow of articles
There really is no stopping “Our Meg” our people, particularly Number 1 AMW at LXX Squadron Headquarters. Finally, I
Tel: 01536 334226 Media Team 47 and IRAF
cannot express mySwim
Brize Norton Champs
gratitude to
..............................................................................................09 who have seamlessly adapted to the am pleased to tell you that a further 152 48 you all
RAF’s Sportsthe
Woman
Email: amanda@lanceprint.co.uk
No 501 Sqn 90th Anniversary Parade COMMUNITY Mrs Stacey Evans for taking time toofshare
the Year
them2018
new circumstances. properties at RAF Brize Norton will be 49 with The Way of
..............................................................................................10 us. Please dothe Roses
keep them coming
Printed Community Careers Recruiting Officer Update Mrs Leanne King refurbished following the investment of 50 in; the
Spot the Difference
magazine would notanswers
be what it is
Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road, Orton
TEAM .................................................................................................23 The Station continues to deliver vital £4.3m by the MOD to improve the Service
Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6TD today without your valued contribution.
Brizefest capabilities for Defence and the last few Families Accommodation.
Tel: 01733 390564 II Sqn Pre-Para Conditioning Course .................................................................................................24 Editorial Contact
Email: lanceprint@lanceprint.co.uk ..............................................................................................12 Families Day and Brizefest Bus Route
As we now head into the summer and
Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk RAF Brize Norton Celebrate Women in
51° North Magazine, leave period, I do hope you enjoy time
DEADLINE
.................................................................................................25 Submitting your Article
engineering Day 19 RAF Brize Norton, with your family and friends, making
We can help you in developing your article for the magazine. The following contacts are on hand to
..............................................................................................14 ADVENTURE & SPORT Carterton, Oxfordshire OX18 3LX assist you in planning, writing and publishing your piece;
memories and if you can please share
RAF Falcons Celebrate Armed Forces day Mr themClarke
Simon with us.
– Web Manager ext. 6492
Disclaimer: ..............................................................................................15 Race to the tower June 2019
PLEASE SUBMIT ALL ARTICLES
Sqn Ldr MarkBY 6TH
Taylor SEPext.
- Editor 197930
Flt Lt Dave Coombs - Contributions Editor ext. 7880 Mrs Leanne King – Deputy Media Communications
This publication is copyright Lance Print Limited and may not be ATC 24 Hour Charity Cycle .................................................................................................26 Officer ext. 7264you are doing, have fun and
reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior Email: bzn-51degreesnorth@mod.gov.uk Flt Lt Sarah Margetts - Magazine Co-ord ext 5988 Whatever
..............................................................................................16 4624 Squadron Skiing Exped - A Novice’s Your article should aim to be between 400 and author’s details, in case we require any more Stephen Lympany - Serco Photography ext. 7523
written permission of Lance Print Limited. While every care has been Mrs Stacey Evans - Deputy Media and come back refreshed ready to do it
taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Print Limited Brize Norton Voluntary Band Perspective 600 words
Tel: 95 461 7930in length, with a897930
/ 01993 high resolution information. Send your completed articles to BZN-
Communications Officer ext 6342 all again.
cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for
..............................................................................................17 .................................................................................................27 picture over 1MB for every 100 words you write. 51DegreesNorth@mod.gov.uk. We look forward
any consequence arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication
are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministry of 4624 Squadron Military Skills Weekend 19 Services Offshore Regatta 2019 You should ensure that personnel/activities in Youtoshould
receiving
aim your articles
for your andtomake
article every effort
be between 600 to
and 800 words in length, with a high resolution picture
Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless otherwise stated. ..............................................................................................18 .................................................................................................28 photos are named and that you provide the overpublish
1MB for asevery
many100 wordsasyou
of them write. You should ensure that personnel/activities in photos
possible. Anitaare named
– MCOand
The Stage is set...Play on! that you provide the author’s details in case we require any more information.Editor Send your completedNorth
51 Degrees articles
SAC Davies plays Netball for UK Armed Forces
to BZN-51DegreesNorth@mod.gov.uk. We look forward to receiving your articles and make every effort to
..............................................................................................20 .................................................................................................29 publish as many of them as possible.
44 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON
Although advertisements ISSUE
are included 4 2019
in good faith, the Editor hereby declares that the publication of any advertisement in the ‘51° North’ in no way implies endorsements or responsibility, by the ‘51° North’. The MOD 55
or any Service Establishment - including RAF Brize Norton, for the advertiser or its advertised product or service. Furthermore, neither the Editor nor any Service authority will become involved in any dispute arising out
of any advertisement appearing in the ‘51° North’.The ‘51° North’ is not an official publication; unless specifically stated otherwise, all views expressed in the ‘51° North’ are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily
reflect official MOD or Service policy. © No part of the ‘51° North’ may be reproduced in part or full without the written permission of the Editor or publisher. Photographs are Crown Copyright - all rights reserved - unless
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4624 Squadron Combined Graduation Queen’s Birthday NEWS
and Medal Ceremony Honours 2019
This year’s Queen’s Birthday
4624 Squadron’s Basic Movements Training course graduation in February Honours list included many
took a welcome twist as it combined a Squadron medal presentation. RAF Brize Norton personnel,
H
including MACr Steve Lloyd.
eld in the Sergeants’ and
Warrant Officers’ Mess at RAF
Brize Norton, the ceremony
recognised the culmination
of 9 months trade training for BMT 31.
A tremendous achievement, it marks
the end of their training phases and
the beginning of life on the Squadron’s
Operational Flights.
Designed to give students the ability
to safely and competently handle RAF Ivo Antonie de Rooij/Shutterstock.com Nijmegen March.
air transport aircraft here in the UK and
There really is no stopping
around the world, this academic and
practical course is the second phase of
over 18 months of training. Graduates
are able to work alongside their Regular
colleagues processing personnel, vehicles
and freight for movement by air.
BMT 31 presenting their charity cheque with Senior Student
LAC Rutter on the left and OC 4624 Sqn on the right.
“our Meg”
Peart, SAC Jayne Deering, SAC Rich Burt Another ongoing tradition which
The Reviewing Officer, AVM Martin and the corresponding Clasp to Sergeant has developed on BMT courses is Cycling – MACr Lloyd during one his charity cycle rides.
Scripture Reader and Station favourite Meg
M
Routledge CB RAF, presented BMT 31 with Andy Franklin. the competition to provide the most
their LAC rank tapes and certificates in elaborate celebration cake - BMT 31 ACr Lloyd joined the RAF in Atkinson is not one to shy away from any challenges
front of friends and family. In his address
he said: “The support of families and
certainly pulled out all the stops with their
magnificent confection! The personalised
1987 as a Steward; he changed
role to become an Air Steward
put to her as she yet again tackled activities that
civilian employers is crucial to enable the cupcakes for students and instructors and then after a short period to some would never even attempt.
volunteer reservist to serve and I thank
M
was a nice added touch. Combining the Aircrew as an Air Loadmaster in 1999.
you all for your dedication”. two presentations enabled students to eg’s latest challenges, There is no rest for Meg as she heads off
meet members of the Operational Flights MACr Lloyd, currently serving on 99 part of her 70th birthday to Nijmegen for the annual march. The
As with all Squadron BMT courses, that they will now be joining as part Squadron, was recognised by the award of celebrations, involved flying International Four Day Marches Nijmegen
they fundraised for charity during their of their career development; equally it the Meritorious Service Medal. Throughout through the air at 125 mph is the largest multiple day marching
training weekends, this year raising was an excellent opportunity for current his 30+ years of service he has performed to wing-walking, zip-wiring through a forest event in the world. It is organised every
£1,637.51 for SSAFA which they achieved Squadron personnel to congratulate BMT the highest of standards and was awarded a and lastly a roller coaster driving event in year in Nijmegen, Netherlands, as a
through a variety of events including a 31 on their achievement and share in COS Operations & Support’s Commendation which Meg proudly said: “I had three laps means of promoting sport and exercise.
raffle and ‘4624 Challenge’ – a 4km run, Graduation cake. their success. in 2012 for leading the Air Loadmaster to negotiate a real up and down sharp Participants walk 30, 40 or 50 kilometers
6km cycle, 2km row and another 4km section. He demonstrated his superb work bend circuit. Its was truly amazing and daily depending on their age and gender,
run. Presentation of their cheque to OC ethic by leading a charity cycle ride across I think I can now say I would give Lewis and, on completion, receive a royally
4624 Squadron, Wing Commander Bev 500 miles in five days in support of the Hamilton as run for his money!” approved medal. The participants are
Peart was made by Senior Student, LAC Squadron history whilst raising thousands of mostly civilians, but there are also a few
Katielyn Rutter. pounds for charity. MACr Lloyd continues to All Meg’s activities are for charities which thousand military participants.
inspire those around him and represented she is fiercely proud to support with all
Following the graduation ceremony, AVM the Service raising flags during medal monies raised on Station being used for
Routledge presented Squadron medals ceremonies during Op OLYMPIC. Outside of the benefit of our troops and the RAFBF.
and awards. The first was to Flight his work, Steve likes to spend time with his
Sergeant Matt Evans who received an wife (he says he couldn’t achieve all he does Meg said
AOC 38 Group Commendation for without her support) and his two children.
his exemplary performance during “I have had a great time. I
Operation RUMAN. This was followed have still more to do and
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS
by the presentation of the Long cannot thank everyone
Service and Good Conduct medal TO ALL RECIPIENTS AT RAF
enough for their support
to Sergeant Kelly Matthews and BRIZE NORTON.
corresponding Clasp to Sergeant and donations. Every penny
Cam Adam. The Volunteer counts for the benefits of our
Reserves Service Medal was troops. There is no challenge
also awarded on the day to great or too difficult and
with presentations
made to Wing
as long as I can I will keep on
Commander Bev Medal recipients. meeting them head on.”
8 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 9
No 501 Sqn 90th Anniversary Parade NEWS
This was scheduled for Saturday 22 Jun 2019 and would follow a route from
Gloucester Cathedral to the Guild Hall. But first came a week of preparation.
A
fter collecting our weapons to pick up a cereal packet with your teeth. Then it was time for coffee and cake in the
we travelled by coach to Base The box was made ever smaller and the Guild Hall and a meet-and-greet with HRH,
Hanger to start our training. final two, non-damaged, contestants - Lisa the Duke of Gloucester. What a privilege.
This was to be the routine: Mclaughlin and Jon Mace – were both
two hours of drill, break, two hours drill, declared winners. After a game of bingo, My wife and mum were my guests and
lunch, then two hours more drill. The HQ won by Ben Rollins, B Flight triumphed but we chatted about the excitement and
staff arranged evening activities to keep the actual winner was the Sqn because how good we’d looked. They met my
us occupied. Monday was quiz night - 7 the banter and morale were tremendous. colleagues and some of the HQ staff; this
rounds of the OC’s quizmaster specials. was a welcome inclusive moment. The
Unfortunately, it ended in an emphatic On Thursday afternoon we had a full morning had been a triumph.
win for A Flight. rehearsal that included the HQ staff. A
very competitive game of softball was the Next was our Dining in Night, dressed in
sport of choice after work and the usual No 1s with white shirt and dickie bows.
suspects, Lisa, Will, Andy and myself, were In the Officers’ Mess we had pre-dinner
all shouting and pushing the teams. B drinks before moving into the dining
flight went into their second innings 16 – room. The band played, the guests arrived,
5 ahead and extended their total to 30; A the colour was escorted in and food and
flight needed 26 to win. They fought hard drink were enjoyed by all. After a few
and used legal and not-so-legal tactics to hours of toasts, speeches, games and
edge ever closer. As the gap narrowed, I songs it was revealed that Ben Aston had
thought I was going to do myself an injury won the ‘Guess the length of the OC’s
by my shouting. Eventually the B’s won by speech’. His guess of 22mins 30secs was
a small margin. only 8 secs out.
Friday morning’s parade was in No1 It had been a memorable week, going
uniform - buddy checks ensured we from zero to hero due to the work of
looked the part. We formed up in front our two drill instructors. Pride in our
of a C-17 aircraft, a Service Vehicle and a achievement, the camaraderie, the
Snow Plough for a Sqn photograph. This banter and the feeling of inclusion was
was really good fun and a proud moment tremendous. This is something I have only
because the picture was to be hung in the felt and witnessed since joining the RAF. I
Sqn HQ Corridor. Next came a full-dress look forward to 10 yrs time when we reach
rehearsal which was almost perfect; even the monumental age of 100.
the ‘Adults’ did well! Our reward was to be
stood down for the rest of the day.
The parade
At 07:30, we departed for Gloucester
Cathedral where we chatted to guests
who had come to see us being part
By Tuesday afternoon we were marching of something important. The pride in
smartly and in time, however, our feet being involved in this historic event was
were starting to suffer. Sport was the apparent and I was filled with a sense
after-drill activity - unihoc and bucketball. of inclusion. The 2 flights formed up,
Battle between the flights recommenced flanking the Sovereign’s Colour to the
- some were perhaps a little over- RAuxAF, ready to exercise our Freedom
competitive. By the end, B flight gained of Gloucester as No 501, County of
their revenge. Gloucester Sqn. This was exactly the kind
of thing I had signed up for: performing
On Wednesday we were reinforced to our very best in front of Royalty and
by colleagues who had previous the public.
drill experience. We marched with
weapons for the length of time At 10:00 came the order: ‘By the left,
we’d be parading - it felt like a quick march!’ 614 Sqn ATC set off with
really long time. A Games Night us immediately behind. The positivity
that evening included darts, coming from the crowds lining the route
boules, pool, black jack and was palpable. They were cheering and
dominoes as well as a clapping for us, for the forces; it was hard
flexibility challenge to concentrate. It wasn’t a long parade,
which consisted of but it was superb. No one put a foot
bending down wrong. NAILED IT!
10 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 11
II Sqn Pre-Para
including the arduous 20-mile loaded
march across the Brecon Beacons. TEAM
Live Firing Exercises
II Sqn have conducted an array of Live
Conditioning Course
Field Firing packages in order to remain
operationally deployable and to enhance
the Sqn’s warfighting capability. As the
DCC Development Flt, C Flt deployed on
Ex WINGED HELIOPOLIS which provided
participants with live firing qualifications for
current operations. The Sqn were privileged
No 4 FP Wing comprises a Wing HQ, II Sqn RAF Regiment, 7 Sqn RAF to host the Stn Cdr to oversee the training
which included an intimate introduction
Police and 2624 Sqn RAuxAF Regiment. to a grenade assault. When everyone
had completed the required deployment
T
training, the Flt focused on developing its
he Wing delivers an array of Force British Airborne Forces. The Sqn has to runs and fast paced loaded marches organic section weapon capabilities on Ex
Protection (FP) and security effects train individuals for highly demanding carrying a 40lb Bergan plus water and WINGED DEFENDER. Following training on
both at home and overseas; these parachute roles; specifically, it provides weapon across undulating terrain the General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG)
include Air Mobility Protection, all RAF Regt Dismounted Close Combat over distances of up to ten miles. and Underslung Grenade Launcher (UGL),
Aviation Security and Air Transport Security. (DCC) specialist operators to the Special the Flt deployed to Hythe and Lydd ranges
Forces Support Group. Due to the Circuit training in the gym focusses on to conduct live firing which culminated
II Sqn Pre-Para Conditioning complexities inherent in the delivery upper body strength and cardiovascular in a Forward Operating Base defence
Course (PPCC) of the course, specialist assistance was endurance, Battle PT includes log shoot combining the use of GPMGs, UGL
Since July 1962, when the Sqn moved to sought from PEd Flt and the Primary and stretcher races and the course and small arms. This training, the current
Colerne in Wiltshire, Regiment Gunners Care Rehabilitation Facility; from this culminates with the 10-mile loaded operational output and warfighting spirit of
have been required to complete the process the new PPCC was designed. march. This process improves endurance, the Sqn ensures it remains: Nunquam Non
Pre-Parachute Selection Course (PPSC). determination and, most importantly, Paratus – Never unprepared.
Although the needs have changed, the The first two-week long PPCC was the team spirit of all participants. The
aims of the course have broadly remained delivered at BZN in March 19; further course aims to prepare Sqn personnel
the same: to test for the physical fitness, PPCCs were run in June and July. for Test Week on PPSC, confirming the
mental robustness, determination and Candidates participate in three training appropriate level of self-discipline and
self-discipline required to serve in the serials each day; these include boot motivation to complete all events,
12 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 13
RAF Brize Norton Celebrates RAF Falcons Celebrate TEAM
Women in Engineering Day 19 Armed Forces Day
Sunday 23rdJune marked the 2019 International Women in Engineering On Saturday 29th June 2019, towns and cities across the UK marked
Day (INWED19). Armed Forces Day; an annual event for the whole country to celebrate the
work of service personnel, reservists, veterans, cadets and their families.
T
his global awareness campaign,
coordinated by the Women’s Cpl Hayley Woodhall, an Airframe
Engineering Society, aims to Technician, said:
increase the profile of women
in engineering worldwide and to “My inspiration to become an
focus attention on the amazing career engineer (apart from family)
opportunities available to girls in was Sir Michael Foale who was
engineering and related industries. selected as one of the first British
Astronauts to qualify as a mission
To highlight the work of female engineers specialist with NASA in 1987. As
in the RAF we spoke to three of our female a child I watched him go in to Flight Lieutenant Harrison takes the
space and carry out spacewalks. salute when the team land at Salisbury.
T
engineers serving on from No. 47 Squadron.
he RAF Falcons performed
I completed a National Diploma
their stunning aerial display,
in Aeronautical Engineering and
dispatching from the aircraft at
the next best thing to going into
8,000ft, at this year’s National
space was joining the Royal Air
Event held in Salisbury, Wiltshire.
Force. I’ve enjoyed every second
Thousands of visitors were in the city to
of my career and I would like to
enjoy the RAF Falcons performance and
encourage the next generation
other military displays which included a
and hopefully attract more female
parade of nearly 1,500 service personnel,
engineers into the Royal Air Force.”
cadets and veterans at which Her Royal
Highness The Princess Royal, Princess
Anne, took the salute.
Flight Lieutenant Mikaela Harrison, Officer
Commanding RAF Falcons, said: “We were
Sqn Ldr Trudy Askew, a Senior honoured to be invited to display at this
Engineering Officer, said: years Armed Forces Day event in Salisbury.
Flt Lt Lorren Clark, an Engineering Officer, The weather was fantastic and enabled
said: “As 47 Squadron Senior Engineering us to perform our mid-show from 8,000ft
Officer (SEngO) I have the privilege which included an element of freefall. The
“At school, Maths and Science to lead the 300 RAF and industry Team really enjoyed the display and we
were favourite subjects of mine, engineers in support of C130 felt exceptionally proud to represent the
and this carried forward to Hercules operations around the RAF on this occasion.”
university where I completed an World. As Station lead for Women
Engineering Degree, which then in Science and Engineering (WISE), Military musicians, including bands from
led to me joining the Royal Air it is wonderful to see that we have the RAF and Royal Marines, entertained
Force as an Engineering Officer. so many females in roles including crowds throughout the day. The event
aircraft, communications and concluded with a concert which included
Since being in the Royal Air Force, ground engineering, medical, a performance by the Kaiser Chiefs.
the Training and experiences the dental, logistics, pilots and
RAF have provided me have been loadmasters; they all use science, Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt also
world class. Being an Engineer in technology, engineering and maths attended to watch the parade and meet
the RAF offers you a wide range (STEM) to do their jobs successfully servicemen and women and she said:
of opportunities and roles from and have key roles in the RAF. The “On Armed Forces Day we celebrate the
being on a busy front-line Squadron STEM activities that we do with exceptional contribution our service
as a Junior Engineering Officer local schools to inspire the next personnel, regular or reservist, veterans
to working on a Project Team. generation show students how and their families make to our security and
to apply technology, teamwork, prosperity. The Armed Forces protect us
Engineering in the RAF is an their knowledge and ideas to and defend us around the world and serve
amazing career, and I really would design or adapt something to find communities throughout our country.
encourage anyone including the a solution to a problem; and why With more than 300 events across the
next generation of Female Engineers studying STEM subjects can lead to UK, it’s incredible to see people coming
The RAF Falcons performing for Armed
to consider it as a career.” rewarding opportunities.” together to show their support for the Forces Day in Salisbury, Wiltshire.
Armed Forces.”
14 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 15
ATC 24 Hour Charity Cycle Brize Norton
TEAM
At twelve o’clock on Saturday the 8th June, Sqn Ldr Si Hawker and Sgt
George Day set off from Brize Norton Air Traffic Control as the lead element
Voluntary Band
of a 24hr cycle challenge on the airfield in support of Blind Veterans UK. play at the BZN Annual Formal Reception 2019
A
small team consisting of the two It was a proud moment on the parade square. After months of practice
pre-mentioned plus Flt Lt Jase
Roberts, Flt Lt Adam Morris and and then outdoor rehearsals with the cadet band the AFR, the Station
FS Dave Jackson took it in turns Annual Formal Reception, was in full flow with the Falcons parachute team
to ride continuously around the MT route
until twelve o’clock the next day. descending, the anticipation of a fly past and an audience enjoying a good
The wind was less than favourable for the
military parade.
B
duration of the event and at one point
reached speeds of 35 knots presenting a rize Norton is one of several RAF This year was unique. Usually Brize Our conductor came from Waddington
true test of morale and fitness. The core stations that has a band which Norton AFR has a professional military band with several talented players to
team of 5 were supplemented by other comprises serving personnel, band playing, however, in 2019 the reinforce the sound. Playing outdoors at a
members of ATC Sqn who gave up an hour contractors and local civilians. choice was made to use the band on military parade is an uplifting experience
or so to chip in and keep them company. The Brize Norton voluntary Band, base and the local cadets so that it really and a reminder of how the varied
FS Jackson endured a 4 hour solo stint BNVB, meets weekly on Mondays at was a Brize Norton event. The informal contributions of all combine to produce a
from midnight until 4am and Flt Lt Roberts 1830 upstairs in the Common Room. feedback from the guests was that they truly memorable military occasion.
took the mileage points by achieving Bandmaster Sgt Sophie Hobson leads it particularly enjoyed seeing the pride on
92 miles in his 5 hours at dawn. Other with skill and dedication. the faces of the cadets as they marched Sqn Ldr Catherine Pathak
members who chipped in included Flt Lt and played alongside BNVB. Numerous
Jez Preedy, Flt Lt Lou Waterhouse, Flt Lt It is a brass and wind band; all are serving personnel and three contractors
Lewis Mansell, WO Chris Peacock, FS Nick welcome to join with no auditions. The were playing their instruments in the
Ball, FS Campbell Andrews, Sgt Mike Usher repertoire is varied: marching band tunes, parade. We started with the rousing tunes
and SAC Louise Cheung. hymns, theme tunes from films and of the Dambusters and Longest Day and
shows. The band aims to have a good moved through to more reflective pieces
Despite the tough conditions the team selection of music that can be used for as the flag was lowered, ending with the
rolled over the line at midday on the 9th military functions. national Anthem.
having completed a combined total of
532 miles and raised £592.82 for a very
worth cause. If you know of any veterans
struggling with sight loss then please put
them in touch with Blind Veterans UK on
0300 111 2233.
16 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 17
4624 Squadron Military Skills TEAM
Weekend 19
Field weekend was held at Nesscliff Training Area, Shropshire.
H
eld every three years, the pull together a wet weather plan as it competition. The stands included
Squadron deployed en-masse was looking quite grim! However, on the Logistics (Movements) Trade, MT, Force
to participate in a stand-based Saturday, the sun shone through and it Development and PT related tasks and
competition which saw 12 proved to be a glorious (and dry) day. challenges, one of which involved a wet Inspector presenting the Commanding
teams compete for the coveted Field and muddy ditch! Officer’s Trophy to Sergeant Phil Gibson. Navigation stand.
Weekend Trophy. The aim of the weekend is to develop
and foster innovative thinking and Group Captain Gavin Hellard, Inspector The following morning the Squadron held
No squadron weekend would be enhance the key attributes of Leadership RAuxAF, attended to see the Squadron its annual Awards presentation with Group
complete without the pre-requisite blend – Communication, Co-operation, in action, visiting each of the stands Captain Hellard presiding. The VRSM was
of thunder, lightning and hail; even the Collaboration, Teamwork and Self throughout the day; he even had a go presented to Sergeant Phil Gibson and
event organisers were quickly trying to Awareness – through an inter-flight himself at one or two! He said: “It has been Squadron awards went to:
a fantastic experience to see the Squadron Best Recruit – SAC James Dwyer
and its personnel in such great form Spirit of Fairford – Battle Proms Team [SAC
over what has clearly been a challenging David Harrison & SAC Simon Miesegaes]
but highly enjoyable weekend, and I Operational Flight Trophy – Sergeant Phil
would like to thank all Sqn personnel for Mobbs
their warm welcome, good humour and Commanding Officer Trophy – Supply
measured insight into the challenges you Section
see ahead. You have a lot to be proud
of and events like this weekend are the In all, a very successful weekend judging
reason my job in representing you at Air by the wide smiles, and summed up by
Command is such a privilege.” Once the SAC Kerri Milburn who said: “I think it’s
teams had removed the ingrained dirt, fair to say that the Squadron weekend at
everyone enjoyed a social and prize giving Nesscliff was a successful one. I for one
in the evening. Having covered an average thoroughly enjoyed it and would like to
of 12 miles during the day there were, express my thanks to all of the staff who
Muddy ditch stand (SAC Kerri Milburn far right).
understandably, some weary limbs, but took part in the planning and execution.”
everyone was keen to find out the results
and the winners were:
Shooting Cup – C Flight
Safe & Skilled Driving – C Flight
DCCT shoot (the Inspector far right). Field Weekend Trophy – D Flight
Squadron Photo. D Flight – winners of the Field Weekend Trophy.
18 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 19The stage is set...play on! Let them eat cake! CHARITY
RAF Brize Norton Theatre Club (BNTC) excels; hosting the RAF Theatrical (As it’s in a good cause)
Association (RAFTA) One Act Play Festival (OAPF). On 14th May, a Dental Centre team visited
T
heatre clubs from across the UK several sections on camp selling cakes, biscuits
all descended upon RAF Brize
Norton over the Bank Holiday
and sweet cones in order to raise money for Mind
weekend bringing with them UK and the RAF Dental Branch Memorial Stone.
Actors, directors, stage-hands, technical
A
directors, and supporting club members,
not to mention vast amounts of set, props, ll staff donned their aprons and, supported us and donated so generously.
and costumes to perform at the 2019 in true ‘Bake off’ style, made a We all thoroughly enjoyed visiting various
RAFTA One Act Play Festival. A showcase wide variety of cakes, flapjacks sections and meeting different people.
of artistic direction, acting ability and and cookies (minimum sugar
stage design, the OAPF provides clubs of course!). We also had some generous
the chance to show off their skill, receive donations from local small businesses
professional adjudication from the invited including ‘Indulge by Amy’ and ‘Clare’s
Guild of Drama Adjudicators (GoDA) Cakery’ who kindly made a ‘brownie stack’
and possibly win awards! In this, the and a variety of cupcakes for us to help
39th OAPF. raise money for this good cause.
RAF Brize Norton did a fantastic job The Dental Centre utilised a shopping
of hosting the festival at short notice. trolley and decorated it with May’s
Everyone felt welcome and the whole ‘National Smile Month Campaign’ material.
weekend went off without a hitch. RAF Although we were feeding people with
Brize Norton Theatre Club itself were the sugar, we still needed to promote good
run-away success of the festival, picking oral health!
up the award for overall best play with sets, right through to some fabulous sets lacks confidence; then the theatre could
their ‘20 minutes or so Scottish Play’ as which transported you to another time be for you. Some of the staff were lucky enough
well as best comedic moment for Denise and place. Everyone brought their A to meet the sport legend Eddie Jones,
Ferguson’s ‘You Da Man’ scroll which game and helped make this a memorable If you would like to get involved then head coach of the English national rugby
brought the house down, plus best Festival with 10 plays all offering contact Brian at the RAF Brize Norton team, on their travels who kindly had a
junior actor award for Jasmine Caufield exceptional levels of entertainment and Theatre Club box office on 07521725005 photograph taken with us.
(so talented already at 10 years old she is displaying dedication and skill. or head to the website www.brizetheatre.
definitely one to watch in the future), best co.uk for more details, or go to the RAF The total amount of money raised was an
innovation in directing for Pat Cullum, Amateur Theatre offers something Brize Norton Theatre Club facebook amazing £370! The whole Dental Centre
and Brize’s own Flt Lt Kurt Baldwin won for everyone, whether technically page. The Club is always after new talent team would like to thank all those who
the RAFTA Author’s Award for his original minded, confident, shy, or anything should you want an exciting hobby that
206 Squadron raise money for Macmillan
script ‘Prime Minister’s Question’. (The in between. It boosts confidence and offers so much more than the norm.
full list of award winners can be found at public speaking ability, offers a chance All experience levels are welcome, no
www.rafta.co.uk) to break down personal barriers and experience is required.
Whether back stage or on it, this year’s On Thursday 27th June, 2 representatives from Macmillan Cancer
truly is an underutilised element of force
OAPF highlighted just what can be
development. For anyone seeking a Support, Farrell Hackett and Hannah Gray, were presented with a cheque
achieved with a small cast and minimal
commission or promotion for example but for £1,220 raised by 206 Sqn.
S
qn personnel have recently taken
part in various fundraising activities
and it was thought appropriate
for Macmillan Cancer Support to
receive the cheque, in memory of the wife
of Sqn member Flt Lt Simon Fenton, who
recently passed away but was cared for by
Macmillan nurses.
Farrell and Hannah spent a day with 206 Sqn
looking at the work the Sqn has undertaken,
both in support of Brize Norton and the
Macmillan organisation. 206 Sqn members
intend to continue fundraising on behalf of
Macmillan Support and hope to raise much
Mac Beth. The Audience. more for a very worthy cause.
20 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 21Thames Challenge event 2019 – Community Careers COMMUNITY
Saturday 7th September 2019 Recruiting Officer Update
The Thames Challenge is returning this year, on Saturday 7th September,
following the success of last year’s event. As one of 5 Community Careers Recruitment Officers endorsed by Air
Member for Personnel and working for HQ Recruiting & Selection,
1 I deliver a wide range of careers events for over 2,600 Colleges/
00 walkers were safely guided 12 If you would like to join our team to assist,
miles along the Thames path from please contact us on thameschallenge@
the Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge hotmail.com or 07793 058457. Universities in the South, using Station assets to showcase RAF Careers/
(near Bampton) to the finish at
the Riverside Inn at Lechlade. Most of Finally, we would like people to register lifestyle which allow potential candidates and ‘meet the RAF’ personnel
the walkers were service personnel, their
families and friends.
for the walk. This is easy to do; email
Marina on thameschallenge@hotmail.com
in their working environments.
F
or 07402 442086 and she will guide you
The walk follows the Thames Path along through the process. rom large-scale general careers The Events
a beautiful stretch of the river, through awareness events to Potential During the last 12 months we have
Radcot, Kelmscott and some beautiful On the day, walkers will park in Lechlade Officer ‘look at life/Officer and hosted 2,973 potential candidates from
countryside. and a coach will take you to the start at Aircrew Selection Centre (OASC) 47 different educational establishments,
the Trout Inn near Bampton. We will then insight’ days for civilian candidates, (see delivered 52 RAF Careers presentations,
John Coghlan (Status Quo drummer) and gradually set you off along this beautiful pictures below) our aim is to attract and attended 9 local college careers fairs
his wife Gillie presented medals to the stretch of the Thames Path back towards recruit candidates to the priority roles and supported the RIAT. Brize Norton is
walkers at the finish line and a live band Lechlade. The finish line is at the Riverside and to give applicants the inspiration to exceptionally well placed to offer students
entertained the walkers. Everyone had a Inn at Lechlade, where you will receive a remain in the selection process. We also a stimulating yet candid appraisal of the
fantastic day and we raised over £5,200 for medal for your efforts. There will also be provide support to local Armed Forces work undertaken in our respective roles
Help for Heroes. music and a raffle with great prizes. Career Offices (AFCO) for the selection & the associated career progression.
and interviewing of P2 (Officer) and
Thames Challenge 2019 The cost is £15 per person, which will P3 (non-commissioned) candidates. OASC Guidance & Commissioning (P2)
We would like to recruit people to assist include an event tee shirt, a medal, Opportunities for Serving Airmen
with the planning for this year’s Thames transport, walk number etc. We also ask I am assisted by 38 enthusiastic and Qualified and practised in selection and Sqn Ldr Jackie Millard-Smith.
Challenge, to include promoting the that walkers pledge to raise a minimum of More information about the event is on professionally driven Station recruitment boarding procedures for OASC and the
event, recruiting walkers, sourcing raffle £20 via sponsorship. 100% of the money our website (www.events4h4h.org.uk) and ambassadors who range in rank from AFCO filter interview, I work with HQ R&S Specialist, Intelligence Analyst, Human
prizes and other tasks. raised will go to Help for Heroes. you can donate via our JustGiving account LAC to Flt Lt. These carefully selected to identify talent for the priority branches. Resources Specialist and Gunner.
– www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ volunteers host Station recruiting Where capacity permits, I am happy to
We would also like to recruit people to There are 100 places up for grabs and this thameschallenge2019. events in a secondary duty capacity offer serving personnel ‘general’ guidance Despite numerous recruitment initiatives
assist on the day. This will include running is a very popular event. Many walkers from and are pivotal to the overall success on the overall selection process and which include major events, outreach
a team at checkpoints, guiding walkers last year have already signed up so book Chief Technician Dave Lewis, Marina and which is confirmed by the number interview technique as well as advising engagement within local schools/
and other tasks. your place soon to avoid disappointment! the Thames Challenge team. of applications that are generated. on the latest forecast branch availability. colleges as well as a plethora of digital
and social media campaigns, the RAF’s
Flying sqns and a huge number of Applications for Officer branches and ability to attract and recruit sufficient
departments from across the Station Direct Entry SNCO roles remain highly quality candidates for selection remains
have continued to support my weekly competitive. Priority branches are challenging. Through engagement
events over the years - all have played a currently Non-Commissioned Controller with local youth organisations, serving
pivotal role in delivering a memorable (aka ATC), WSOp and Engineering. Non- personnel can play a major role in
experience to attract future officers commissioned shortfalls exist in Catering, spreading the recruiting message
and airmen/women to the Service. Chef, Supply, Storage & Distribution that the RAF is recruiting.
22 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 23ONLY OPEN TO RAF
BRIZE NORTON
PERSONNEL AND THEIR
FRIENDS AND FAMILY
FAMILIES DAY AND BRIZEFEST BUS ROUTE 31 AUGUST 2019
24 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 25Race To The Tower
ADVENTURE
4624 Squadron Skiing Exped & SPORT
This is a two day ultra-marathon which follows part of the undulating Cotswold
– A Novice’s Perspective
Way and culminates in a lactic acid-inducing climb up to Broadway Tower. Having grown up in a tower block in London, the closest I got to skiing
P
articipants complete 53 miles After quick stops, we set off with a chorus was watching “Ski Sunday” on TV.
and climb 7,500ft along the way. of groans; even the briefest of respites
S
Our team consisted of Flt Lt Tom tricked our bodies into thinking we had
o, when the Squadron organized
Mountney of 99 Sqn and Flt Lts finished for the day. Chatter was a mixture
a skiing expedition to Austria, I
Chris White, Lewis Ray, Rich Manning and of encouragement and banter which
jumped at the chance to turn my
Sgts Dickie Allen and me, Al Holt, of XXIV kept spirits up. The shared experiences
dream into reality – at the age of 52.
Sqn. Each of us had tackled at least one of aches and pains, and determination to
marathon; Tom provided much-needed complete the challenge, ensured that we
After landing in Innsbruck we were taken
‘ultra’ training and nutrition advice, having each got through to the end of the first
by coach to Lanersbach, our base for
finished his incredible “444 Run” in 2014, day within a few minutes of each other,
the week. The accommodation was a
during which he completed 17 marathons despite several niggling injuries. We were
pension-style double apartment; it was a
on 17 consecutive days. greeted at the finish line with a (non-
very pleasant home-from-home and only
alcoholic!) beer and a sports massage to
a short walk to the buses and lifts. Our
When I broached the idea of completing, help stave off the worst of the post-run
next task was to rent the various items of
the race felt comfortably “in the future”! aches. The hardest part was going to be
bulky ski equipment.
All too soon, it was January and training getting up the following morning to do
regimes had to step-up. Conflicting it all over again; that night was all about
The instructors split the group into
working schedules meant that most of replenishment and rest. Day two presented different challenges. After a well-earned R&R day we hit the
two – novices and those with previous
our first training runs were solo efforts An underlying sense of excitement, After thinking you’ve got the technique slopes for one final day of exhilarating
experience – before we headed to the
in the middle of winter; these can be On day 2 we started out under cloud- months of training, injuries and cracked and feeling confident that you fun. We were full of confidence and had
Hintertux Glacier. We stayed on the lower
quite demoralising but as donations free skies, albeit perhaps a little slower fundraising were culminating in this can stay upright, a change in location and a great day zipping through the trees
nursery slopes while the skiers went to
for our charities mounted, we were than the day before! The sunshine and final effort. Motivated by thoughts of our a new slope was enough to make me feel (after which I was glad to return my
sharpen their skills on more challenging
more motivated to pull on our trainers incredible Cotswold views spurred us on chosen charities and the hard-earned like I’d forgotten everything. It took until incredibly uncomfortable ski boots to
blues runs. Starting on gentle inclines
and get out into the cold. In the last and we soon settled into a pace similar funds that would help support them lunchtime, a hot chocolate and a few the hire shop). To celebrate a fabulous
to learn the basics, the hardest part was
few weeks small groups managed to that of the previous day. Pace and in their work, we fought the final hill; shaky turns to nail this steeper and longer week, and being freed from the boots,
staying upright as it seemed unnatural to
some longer training runs which, as nutrition (especially salt intake) were albeit I was secretly vowing to myself slope, but by the end of the day we’d everyone enjoyed an evening meal at
lean forward into your ski boots to keep
the weather improved, became almost foremost in our minds as we began the that I would never do anything like learnt how to parallel turn and stop. A which we thanked the instructors for
your balance. As the day progressed we
pleasant…almost! first steep climbs. this again! We completed the course in huge sense of achievement was felt by all. their help and patience, particularly
moved to different slopes, each varying
approximately 10 hours, with our front- in length and incline, and learned how to Warrant Officer Russ Howarth who had
On Day 1 of the Race we gathered at the The longed-for finish point, Broadway runner, Dickie, coming in an impressive The better at skiing you become, the organized every aspect of the trip.
use the travellator and drag lift - not as
cold and (very) wet start near Stroud, Tower, appeared on the horizon 12th place and the rest not far behind. longer the ski lifts you use; you get tired
easy as it looks!
with mixed feelings of excitement and approximately 20km from the end; this from just holding on! By day three we Be under no illusion, this is adventure
nerves, sharing concerns about the sight was as good as any pain-relief. We raised over £2,800 for four charities: had progressed to the steeper, longer training. With 8 hours on the slopes every
previous sleepless night and last-minute Our pace slightly increased and the the Jon Egging Trust, CLIC Sargent, slopes at Mayrhofen. Thankfully this day, it’s exhausting! You will be sore and
carb-loading. After taking photos for the excitement started to build as the end Rowcroft Hospice and the Nottingham area has chair lifts and the views as you you will be pushed out of your comfort
‘before’ and ‘after’ comparison, we were was, quite literally, in sight. The final Universities Hospital Charity. We would swoop above the trees to the top of the zone by the instructors; however, as a
off, fighting the urge to run at a 10k challenge was the steepest climb of like to send heartfelt thanks to all those mountain were breathtaking. From the complete beginner you will walk away
pace - this was a (double) marathon, not the Race up to the Tower, perched atop who supported us as we undertook this top we set off on a lovely blue run and all with a wonderful sense of achievement
a sprint. At the pit-stops at every 10km, the highest point in the Cotswolds. The challenge. We have subsequently learned was going well until I took a wrong turn and the ability to ski. I came away on a
we consumed high-calorie drinks and team became quieter as the final 10km that the Race to the Tower is one of a and ended up on a red run. I’m not sure high, have learned a new skill, and will do
the snacks that were essential to help approached, each of us conserving 3-Race Series…we won’t be hanging up who lost their sense of humour first – me, it again. It just goes to show that you can
us tackle the distance (and the climbs!). energy for the last push. our race kit just yet! or the instructor who had to come and teach an old dog new tricks.
get me!
SAC Steve Johnson
26 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 4 2019 27You can also read
