Brize Issue 5 2023

Issue 5 2023

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The Magazine of RAF Brize Norton

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Royal Air Force Brize Norton

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BRIZE NORTON

EDITORIAL TEAM

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Editor Ms Anita Jack Editorial Team Mrs Stacey Evans Mrs Bev Masters Editorial Contact 51⁰ North Magazine RAF Brize Norton Carterton, Oxfordshire OX18 3LX Email: bzn-51degreesnorth@mod.gov.uk

PUBLISHING TEAM Published Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 334222 Email: mike@lancemediagroup.co.uk Advertising Darren Greenhead Tel: 01536 680414 Email: darren@lancemediagroup.co.uk Designer Amanda Robinson Tel: 01536 334226 Email: amanda@lancemediagroup.co.uk Printed Micropress Printers Ltd, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6SZ

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

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NEWS

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Voyager Force Support Exercise Cobra Warrior ...............................................................................................06 Exercise Mobility Guardian 2023 ...............................................................................................07 RAF Brize Norton holds Total Safety Day ...............................................................................................08 1 Year In – Timely Reflection ...............................................................................................09 622 Squadron wave goodbye to long serving C-130 Instructors ...............................................................................................10

TEAM Staff Ride ...............................................................................................12 Runway Work ...............................................................................................14 WO Edmonds Farewell ...............................................................................................15 4626 Squadron visit RAF Blackhill ...............................................................................................17 Padre Peace ...............................................................................................19 BFBS Team ...............................................................................................20 A400M Atlas Enterprise Visit ...............................................................................................21 501 Sqn – Junior Personnel Development Course ...............................................................................................22 Celebrating a Double Honours and Awards Ceremony ...............................................................................................23

COMMUNITY

29

Families Day and Brizefest 2023 ................................................................................................24 Memories of RAF Brize Norton .................................................................................................26

CHARITY Cyberspace Charity V50 ................................................................................................28 Hounds for Heroes visit Tactical Medical Wing ................................................................................................29

ADVENTURE & SPORT The Drennan RAF Coarse Angling Team remains Inter Service Champions! .................................................................................................30 51 DEGREES NORTH MAGAZINE 2023 DEADLINE DATES DEADLINE

DELIVERY DATE

ISSUE 1

20 JAN

23 FEB

ISSUE 2

12 MAR

19 APR

ISSUE 3

12 MAY

21 JUN

ISSUE 4

12 JULY

23 AUG

ISSUE 5

12 SEPT

18 OCT

ISSUE 6

12 NOV

12 DEC

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

MESSAGE FROM EDITOR

EDITOR’S FOREWORD The latest edition is here, and I am sure you will all enjoy catching up with all the latest news from the UK’s biggest RAF Station.

W

e have had a busy summer, rounded off with the Stations annual Brizefest, a huge thank you to all involved, it was truly an amazing event once again.

I will leave you all for now to enjoy this latest edition. Please remember the media team are here to help promote the work you do; share your stories and showcase this amazing Station, so please do get in touch.

From Exercises to Charity Events, our personnel have been at the realm.

I am always in awe of what our people do, and I do hope you enjoy reading their contributions to this amazing magazine. Our people are what makes this magazine, and it is a privilege to share their successes and achievements with you all.

Enjoy Autumn’s display of vibrant leaves and I look forward to bringing you all the latest news in our next edition, the last of 2023.

Until then, stay safe and take care.

Anita – MCO Editor 51 Degrees North

The holiday season is now sadly over, the children are all back at school, the leaves are changing colour and the nights are drawing in, autumn is here.

As we head into the last few months of 2023 (where has this year gone!!) we still have much to look forward to. Autumn brings Halloween and Bonfire Night and of course Christmas, the most magical time of the year; keep an eye out for local activities and be sure not to miss the annual Station Bonfire.

DEADLINE PLEASE SUBMIT ALL ARTICLES BY 12TH NOVEMBER 2023 Your article should aim to be between 300-500 words in length, with a high resolution picture over 1MB for every 100 words you write.

You should ensure that personnel/activities in photos are named and that you provide the author’s details, in case we require any more information. Send your completed articles to BZN-51DegreesNorth@mod.gov.uk. We look forward to receiving your articles and make every effort to publish as many of them as possible.

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

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Voyager Force Support Exercise Cobra Warrior RAF Brize Norton based Voyager aircraft have been supporting Exercise Cobra Warrior for the second time this year.

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xercise Cobra Warrior is the RAF’s largest air combat exercise, involving several partner nations who take part to build relations and share working practices with RAF counterparts. The exercise is designed to train exercise participants in high intensity, large force, tactical air war fighting operations.

Voyager’s role as the RAF’s main air-toair refuelling platform is crucial to the success of the exercise, enabling the fast jet fighters from both the RAF and other nations to stay airborne for longer. As the fighters engage in combat simulations, they are able to return to the Voyager tanker to refuel before heading back to continue the exercise.

The role Voyager plays in Exercise Cobra Warrior and similar exercises is vital to enabling them to run by supporting the fast jet forces and other aircraft capable of air-to-air refuelling over long periods.

Alongside Voyager other RAF Air Mobility Force aircraft have been taking part, deploying elements of 16 Air Assault Brigade during an associated ground mission that forms part of the overall exercise scenario.

For Voyager crews the exercise means they can train skills needed for tanking at pace in a simulated combat environment.

Flight Lieutenant Sam Jones, Voyager Pilot said: “Working with other nations on this exercise is brilliant. We get to learn about each other’s standards which makes working together on Operations much easier. Voyager is key to the exercise to enable the fast jets to stay in the air and in the exercise itself. We can hear on the radio’s what’s happening in the exercise and know exactly when we are needed to refuel a group of fighters. We make sure we are ready to receive the jets when they need to fuel to sustain what they are doing.”

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BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

EXERCISE MOBILITY GUARDIAN 2023

NEWS

In July, a crew of Voyager personnel started Ex Mobility Guardian by making their way over to Eielson Air Force base in Alaska.

T

he Voyager made its way to support the Atlas on its longest ever journey travelling for 22 hours by the support of the Voyager aircraft via air-to-air refuelling (AAR).

Within this time, other worldwide forces made their way over to Guam including the French, Australian, Canadian, Japanese, New Zealand, and US Air Forces. The KC3 Voyager was there for 3 primary roles: Air transport, AAR and Aeromed.

Within its first week at Anderson AFB, the Voyager worked closely with the coalition for refuelling purposes supporting the exercise along with other aircraft that were participating in ongoing operations. This was a new experience for the personnel who work on Voyager, as it was a chance

for them to work within a new tropical part of the world. Along with operating in the aircraft over a vast amount of open water, the Voyager crew were extra vigilant in making sure they were prepared for any situation due to the location.

The task was a stimulating experience for the crew on board due to the high operational demand, but personnel from 10 & 101 squadrons persevered and successfully completed every mission tasked. During the AAR tasks, the Cabin Crew flew a total of 57 hours along with the aircraft tanking a total of 253 tonnes. Whilst the Voyagers primary role is to conduct air-to-air refuelling and air transport, it is also equipped to be fitted for aero-medical fits with different configurations available dependant on the situation. During this exercise,

part of the Voyager had been configured to fit 12 stretchers on board to accommodate the Tactical Medical Wings across the globe. This configuration was used many times as the USAF and the RAF were able to practice before the four-day trip to Japan. On 17 Jul 23, the KC3 Voyager landed in Nagoya, Japan to demonstrate our capabilities with aero medical scenarios to the Japanese Air Force During this four-day trip, the Royal Air Force took the lead by putting all their training into place by simulating medical casualties from humanitarian disastrous situations. The Voyager arrived back at RAF Brize Norton, with all crew feeling very accomplished from their efforts that helped steer a successful mission.

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RAF Brize Norton holds Total Safety Day

On Thursday 14th September, the Station held its annual Total Safety Day, bringing together units across the Station to highlight and promote safety to the Whole Force.

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he day was an opportunity for Station personnel to see how RAF Brize Norton operates safely in many differing areas, including air, road, fuel, and fire safety.

Airborne Engineering Squadron displayed a selection of the parachutes they maintain and JADTEU gave awareness into their recent activities. It was also an opportunity to invite guest speakers in to give insights on subjects outside of the RAF Brize Norton sphere.

Wg Cdr Sparky Dunlop gave an extremely engaging presentation on why we “do safety” and how it affects us every day.

In the afternoon, Professor Sir Martin Landray presented “100 days to find solutions in a crisis”, the story of his teams work in safely bringing the world's first treatment for Covid-19 online, a treatment that saved millions of lives.

The day was also an opportunity for the Station Commander and Commander Air Wing to present Air Safety Awards, recognising Station personnel for their diligence and commitment to ensuring we deliver together safely.

Event lead, Station Flight Safety Officer Flight Lieutenant Arron Evans, said: “Safety is something that we do instinctively every day, but due to the nature of the business we are in and the size and complexity of the Station, we can be exposed to situations that require us to be especially mindful of the safety of ourselves, and those around us. The Total Safety Day gives us a reminder of the work going on around Station to maintain safety and lets us see what challenges other sections face.

Air Safety and Functional Safety are not mutually exclusive, we must work together constantly to make sure we share best practice, maintaining risk As Low As Reasonably Practicable(ALARP).

The Total Safety Day is there to get people talking and keep improving the Safety Management System at RAF Brize Norton.”

OSW Safety and Risk Manager promoting Health and Safety.

Commander Air Wing presenting his top aviation risks.

Station Commander explaining the Station's safety priorities.

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BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

1 Year In – Timely Reflection

NEWS

On 4th September, Group Captains Claire O’Grady and Gareth Burdett reached the midpoint of their commands of RAF Brize Norton and the Air Mobility Air Wing.

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hey marked the occasion with a tandem parachute jump from 12000’ at RAF Weston-on-theGreen, which will soon come under the command of RAF Brize Norton’s Station Commander.

Reflecting on her time in tenure, Group Captain O’Grady said:

‘Typical of RAF Brize Norton this has been an incredibly busy year with the operational tempo as high as it has ever been.

I continue to be impressed by the quality and professionalism of our personnel in enabling the delivery of Air Mobility across the globe, but in asking this of them I have been acutely aware of the importance of supporting our people appropriately – be that through the provision of suitable infrastructure or by enabling them to take advantage of the plethora of opportunities which improve the lived experience of our whole force personnel and their entitled families. Of course we can’t deliver everything overnight but my commitment is ensuring that we continue to progress in these areas. The ‘You Said, We Did’ campaign will hopefully demonstrate the successes we’ve had and show our people we listen and their ideas and suggestions are important to us.’

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

Group Captain Burdett said:

‘The operational achievements of our people speak for themselves: from disaster relief and humanitarian evacuations to defending the UK’s airspace and supporting the ongoing fight against D’Aesh. Not least has been the immense efforts of Brize personnel supporting Ukraine. Throughout this we have been listening to our people, and acting on their ideas and suggestions. At this midpoint of our commands, we wanted to give some feedback on what we’ve done on their behalf, so we have launched the ‘You said, We did’ campaign.

Hopefully everyone will see just how much we value their ideas, and will be able to recognise the improvements we’ve put in place to act on them.’

Group Captain Claire O'Grady.

Group Captain Gareth Burdett.

Leaflets covering the ‘You Said, We Did’ campaign will be sent electronically to all Service personnel, and will be available in communal areas around base.

Sports parachuting courses at Westonon-the-Green are available to all Service personnel, catering for those who have never jumped all the way through to specialist training.

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622 Squadron Wave Goodbye to Long Serving C-130 Instructors In August Squadron Leader Derek Oldham and Flight Lieutenant Mark Raymond waved goodbye to life in the Royal Air Force.

F

light Lieutenant Raymond served for a total of 44 years in the RAF, with 40 years in the Regulars and more recently serving on 622 Squadron as a reservist. As an Air Mobility pilot, Mark flew on 8 different aircraft types finishing his flying career on the C130. He operated the C130 in nearly every role possible, on all operations the aircraft was involved in. He amassed a total of 11400 flying hours which is even more amazing considering that towards the end of his career he was one of the most respected flying instructors on the Force and spent much of his time in the simulators.

Squadron Leader Derek Oldham joined the RAF in 1966 aged 18. Nearly 57 years later, Derek leaves the Air Force as the longest ever serving Officer and a staple of the Air Mobility Force having started his Varsity Operational Training Conversion in May 1970. Derek is retiring

10 10

gracefully soon after the RAF C130, the aircraft which he spent much of his career flying and instructing on.

reserves to continue his work as a C-130 instructor, finishing his career as a member of 622 RAuxF Squadron.

Derek joined the Hercules fleet in 1980, flying in several roles throughout his time on many squadrons including XXIV, 30 and 47 Squadron. At 55, after a long career as a Regular, Derek chose to continue his service and join the

Wing Commander Dorian James, Officer Commanding 622 Squadron said: “Throughout his long and prestigious career, Derek has amassed 16,424 flying hours on 20 different aircraft types.

Derek Oldham is a proven, enthusiastic,

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

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highly capable, and decorated pilot who served in the Falklands War, both Gulf Wars and the Balkans conflict, and has operated in many humanitarian missions notably the 1973 UNHCR mission, following the dismemberment of Pakistan where he repatriated refugees between Pakistan and Bangladesh and the 1984 Famine Relief in Ethiopia delivering vital aid packages. He is held in the highest esteem by both peers and superiors alike.”

Derek played a central role to the successful introduction of the C130J in the 1990s through developing simulator and instructional packages. It was in this role that he has continued, both updating the C130J training syllabus and providing an unenviable amount of experience to C130 aircrew.

Group Captain Gareth Burdett, Commander Air Wing said:

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“On a personal level, both of these exceptional pilots feature in my logbook throughout my paltry 23 years on the Hercules. I am massively grateful for their mentoring and for their friendship. They epitomise the professionalism of the Air Mobility Force and literally thousands of aircrew, veterans and serving, will be raising a glass to their service and good company through the decades.”

Squadron Leader Oldham said:

“I joined the RAF Reserves with 622 Squadron because I enjoyed the job I was doing. I always liked the one-to-one teaching inside the simulator, and it was ideal for me to be able to keep teaching a few times a week and pass on my experience while easing into retirement. My final flight in a C-130 was over London for the King’s Birthday Flypast, as a passenger onboard the Hercules with the tail art denoting the aircrafts 56 years of service from 1966 to 2023. This was particularly special because that’s exactly how long I’ve been in the Air Force, so it was a nice end for me to be able to do that.”

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

We will NEVER ask for payment by credit or debit card

11

STAFF RIDE

D

REMEMBERING THE CREW OF LANCASTER L7576 GI-K

uring a recent Force Development event in France, 622 RAuxAF Squadron took the opportunity to pay their respects at a Second World War Lancaster crash site (L7576 GI-K) and the graves of the crew. The current Officer Commanding, Wing Commander Doz James laid a wreath at a purpose built memorial, with other Squadron personnel laying squadron crosses on the graves of the crew members.

of the 29th July they were attacked and the defensive corkscrew dive was anticipated and a further strafing run at 5000 feet crippled the aircraft. The wireless operator Sgt Arthur Payton RAF, Mid-upper gunner FS Richard Proulx RCAF and rear gunner Sgt Percy Buckley RAF did not survive the attack and remained with the stricken bomber.

Buckley had just turned 18 and was possibly the youngest loss of Bomber Command. Flt Lt George Wishart RAF, the

boys. The Engineer Fg Off Ronald “Lew” Fiddick RCAF also baled out and went on the run. He evaded capture with the aid of local villagers before joining the Marquis French underground. Three weeks after the crash he was picked up by an SAS unit and his prior skills as a Woodsman proved invaluable to his new colleagues. For his unexpected three month tour he was made an honorary member of the SAS. Post war interviews of Fiddick and Wishart by

Below is a short account of the events that led to the shooting down of L7576 GI-K.

Sqn’s Eng leader was a late replacement and baled out but badly injured his leg and could not evade capture. His injury proved significant as it delayed his handing over to the Gestapo and was passed to the Luftwaffe three days later and remained as a POW for the rest of the War. He was constantly moved from camp to camp, including the infamous Stalag Luft 111, he was forced on the “Long March” the first use of a mass human shield to cover the German retreat, and was finally liberated by allied forces in May 1945. Returning to the UK he lived a good life fathering four

the RAF’s Missing Research and Enquiry Service (MRES) failed to determine the fate of the two-remaining crew, Captain Al Peabody, and the Navigator, Fg Off James “Harry” Doe RCAF. Gone but not forgotten. In 2016 Canadian brothers Jon and Robert Peck provided the impetus for further investigation to their fates. Their late Mother had been Al Peabody’s cousin. Funding for a project was established with Bishop’s University, where Peabody had studied pre-war, and three undergrad students took on the case. On sifting through files from the British Army’s War Crime Investigation

Stuttgart nicknamed the “German Coventry” was an important rail hub and a centre of industry, home to the Bosch, Daimler-Benz, and the SKF ball bearings factories. Its location, spread out in a series of deep valleys, had constantly frustrated the Pathfinders its luck ran out in a devasting set of three raids between 25th and 29th July 1944. The first two raids annihilated the city centre with a low loss-rate of the attacking bombers. The third raid on a moonlit night with lack of cloud cover left the bomber stream horribly exposed and once identified by German radar plotters proved easy targets for 200-night fighters. L7576 was just one of 39 Lancasters lost that evening, 8% of the bomber stream, falling prey as the first kill to Lt Walter Swoboda piloting a Me110. The story the crew of L7576 makes it stand out from the terrible loss of personnel that night.

GI-K was considered a “lucky crate” and launched on its 99th operational sortie piloted

by Harold “Al” Peabody, a Canadian, flying with 622 Sqn. In the early hours 12

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

Team looking into the murder of 29 SAS soldiers of Op LOYTON in NE France at Natzweiler-Struthof, the only Nazi death camp in France, they made a discovery.

Three airmen had been executed at Struthof and a Nazi guard identified Peabody from a photograph. No other unaccounted Allied aircrew who had bailed out at the time were documented, so beyond reasonable doubt Peabody and Doe along with Sgt Frederic Habgood shot down on the same night were identified as the mystery airmen.

Their murder and subsequent burning in the ovens at Struthof with their ashes placed in a mass grave in the death camp.

TEAM

tailplane mounted on a set of three stones, the base rock from the crash site, the centre section from Al Peabody’s home in Canada and the nameplate from Lt Swoboda’s Austrian home, a poignant reminder of loss on all sides.

The story of L7576 was completed with a visit to Natzweiller-Struthof. A sombre visit to a beautiful part of the Vosges mountains with an horrific history.During the return to base we took the opportunity to visit the grave site of LM477 GI-L at Essey-les-Nancy.

The crew of Flight Sergeant Peter Vercoe (Pilot), Flight Sergeant Douglas Pepper (navigator), Flight Sergeant Norman Marsh (wireless operator), Sergeant Richard Duffield (air gunner), Sergeant Kenneth Gronow (air gunner) and Sergeant Theophilus Simpson (flight engineer) were lost on the “lucky”

The Peabody Project with the assistance of Alain Foune of the Aeronautical Heritage Delegation from Nancy-Ochey FAF airbase commissioned a memorial to the crew. On the 75th Anniversary of the raid a memorial stone was unveiled at Saint-Sauveur near the crash site. The Squadron were honoured to represent the RAF at the unveiling ceremony in front of family members of the fallen, military, and civilian dignitaries from the local community.

As part of the 622 Sqn Force Development, squadron personnel met up with Alain and members of the heritage society. A Service of Remembrance was conducted at the Petitmont Communal Cemetery at the grave site of Payton, Proulx and Buckley. and most damaging second raid on Stuttgart a few days before the loss of L7576.

Over the past few years, we have been honoured to meet up with a few of our fantastic Squadron veterans all of them talk of the pure luck involved in surviving the war. Luck played a huge part in the story of L7576, for the crew, the aircraft, its “target for tonight” and even its conqueror.

“We will remember them”

Alain led the group to a valley in the Vosges mountains the crash site of L7576, where the area is still littered with wreckage of the aircraft. A wreath laying at the memorial followed on the 79th anniversary of L7576’s 99th and final mission, its luck having finally run out.

The memorial comprises of a Lancaster BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

13

RUNWAY WORK Work has been completed on maintenance to the runway at RAF Brize Norton.

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AF Brize Norton’s 3,050 metre runway is one of the busiest in Defence, used predominantly by the RAF’s Air Mobility Force and regular visiting aircraft.

Due to the impact of heat damage to portions of the runway surface, RAF Brize Norton’s Estate Management Squadron (EMS) and Operations Support Wing (OSW ) in collaboration with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) quickly began planning work to carry out necessary maintenance to ensure the runway’s operational capability into the future.

DIO, EMS and OSW worked quickly with Defence contractors Vinci to put into action a plan to repair the necessary portions of the runway as swiftly and safely as possible, while minimising operational impact to the Air Mobility Force.

well-known heat related issues with the RAF Brize Norton runway at the 07 and 25 ends. The Station EMS and OSW worked closely with the on-site DIO managers, DIO projects team, Vinci as the infrastructure delivery partner and Air Command Infrastructure specialists to turn the technical analysis into a funded and deliverable works package that was progressed with unprecedented speed to meet a taut runway embargo.

Without the significant support of all these parties this large undertaking would not have been possible.

Furthermore, the RAF Brize Norton OSW worked hard to safely deliver a reduced length runway which allowed a small number of operationally essential flights to occur whilst the infrastructure works took place. This has been a truly collaborative and successful effort to improve the resilience of the RAF Brize Norton runway until its planned full

resurfacing which will take place from 2025 onwards.”

While work on the runway was taking place, Air Traffic Control worked hard to facilitate a working runway for operationally essential tasks, retaining RAF Brize Norton’s National Standby commitments to Defence.

The period of reduced aircraft activity at RAF Brize Norton also created an opportunity to accelerate a programme of additional work to the wider airfield, including remarking of lines and maintenance to taxiways, maximising the time available to the team.

Chris Colley, Defence Infrastructure Organisation said: “The rapid deployment and team work of DIO’s Technical, Project Management Organisation and Core Service teams, supported by our industry partner Vinci, ensured task progression at pace, through all approval requirements and into Construction! It was a carefully choreographed programme, (varied by weather) delivered successfully, and in full collaboration and coordination with Station and Air Infra team stakeholders.”

To carry out the work, a large logistical plan was put into effect. RAF Brize Norton aircraft were based at various RAF Stations and civilian airports across the UK to enable the continuation of Air Mobility support to Defence, including the temporary relocation of crew and personnel. No.1 Air Mobility Wing’s Air Movements Squadron rebased their operation and several personnel to RAF Waddington ensuring no loss of operational capability.

Group Captain Claire O’Grady, Station Commander said: “Following intensive investigative work by DIO a plan was rapidly developed to address the 14

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

WO Edmonds Farewell

TEAM

Warrant Officer Michael Edmonds was given a traditional RAF send off by personnel at Royal Air Force Brize Norton.

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n Tuesday 29 August, after his farewell interview with Officer Commanding 1 Air Mobility Wing, Wing Commander Jane Lewis, Warrant Officer Edmonds was issued with his bowler hat and umbrella to signify his retirement from the Royal Air Force.

Peacekeeping in Former Yugoslavia, Air Port Unit Hannover Germany, RAF Muscat Oman and most recently was the RAF Liaison Officer for Cape Verde.

In his 35 years of service, he has deployed multiple times in support of Operation HERRICK in Afghanistan, Operation TORAL in the Middle East and to RAF Akrotiri in support of Operation SHADER. His career has involved numerous tours at RAF Brize Norton mostly spent within 1 Air Mobility Wing but notably has also served from RAF Belize, RAF Ascension Islands, RAFSU Goose Bay Canada, in NATO

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

1 Air Mobility Wing personnel and movements colleagues from across the station greeted him outside the Air Terminal to wave him on his way and honour his dedicated service, being driven in a tool of the movements trade, a Charlatte towing tractor complete with balloons, before being taken on his final tour of the Station. His route from the Air Terminal was lined with colleagues and friends applauding as he went past and he was met at the Station gate to be marched off base by

the Station Commander, Group Captain Claire O’Grady.

From everyone at 1 AMW, Mr Edmonds, we congratulate you on your retirement after 35 years of service and wish you all the best in your future endeavours.

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4626 Squadron Visit RAF Blakehill

TEAM

In the summer 4626 Sqn held a Force Development Day which included a visit to what was RAF Blakehill Farm, an RAF WWII airfield.

T

he day consisted of various briefs by Squadron personnel on the role of the airfield during and post the D Day Landing.

The briefs included, the support provided by over 200 aircraft and the provision pf the first ever RAF Medical orderlies who carried out medical care in the air to our injured troops. They were the first three officially appointed aeromed staff who became famously known as the Flying Nightingales.

Sgt Mash Banks (Nurse) carrying out a reading.

dubbed them the ‘Flying Nightingales’ and the name stuck. They were the first British women on active service to be flown into a War zone.

Three nursing orderlies departed from RAF Blakehill on the first casualty evacuation flights to Normandy. It was 13 June, one week since D Day. Corporal Lydia Alford and LACWs Myra Roberts and Edna Birkbeck; each travelling in an RAF Douglas Dakota. The moment of their return was captured by an official RAF photographer. The welcoming party of newspaper correspondents

Words and image from the Internet Site RAF Museum Hendon The day also consisted of laying a wreath at the WWII memorial, which is based on the edge of the site near Cricklade town, Wiltshire.

WO Lou Davey (Nurse) laying a Wreath.

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

17

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09/12/2020 13:26

Padre Peace

TEAM

Having to write about yourself and hoping someone might be vaguely interested enough in the subject matter to read about you is a daunting task.

M

y name is Anthony Curran and before joining the RAF at a ripe age, I managed to accumulate a fair bit of experience having had various jobs. I then decided that I wanted to support people to be the most fulfilled that they can be and the best way I have found of doing that is by being a chaplain and a psychodynamic therapist.

I grew up in Buckinghamshire near RAF Halton and have always had a fascination with aircraft which has eventually brought me into RAF chaplaincy. Before that I worked for many years in the field of training volunteers to facilitate people who wanted to explore philosophy, theology, and related topics.

Tickets £10

Get ready for a GIGANT IC panto experience!

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Climb to new heights with Jack and the Beanstalk, a FEE FI FO FUN pantomime at Oxford Playhouse, Playhouse from the production team that brought you the glittering Cinderella last year.

Join Jack and friends on an adventure of a lifetime, as they scale the beanstalk and take on a Giant. Full of infectious laughter, brilliant storytelling, singing, dancing, cheering for the goodies and booing for the baddies, an Oxford Playhouse pantomime is fabulous festive fun for everyone aged 5 to 105!

After ordination in the Catholic Church, I took up a post as the Catholic chaplain to a local hospital and then a few years later I became the lead chaplain of a neighbouring NHS Trust. My main role was to modernise and rationalise the service being provided by the hospital for its 7,000 staff and thousands of patients over three different geographic locations. I was pleased to able to introduce a multi-belief-based chaplaincy approach to reflect the beliefs and philosophical approaches that exist in society for those of particular and minority faiths and those who have no interest or belief in any religious system.

As a qualified therapist and chaplain, I hope I can bring my previous knowledge, skills, and experience to my role as a Padre in the RAF. I have really appreciated the support, welcome and teamwork that I have experienced during training at Cranwell and since arriving at Brize.

When you see me around the station or if you want a brew, please do say hello or give me a call or email!

Anthony.Curran108@mod.gov.uk

Fri 24 Nov 2023 - Sun 7 Jan 2024 www.oxfordplayhouse.com/events/jack-the-beanstalk We will NEVER ask for payment by credit or debit card

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

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BFBS TEAM Gemma-Leigh James Gemma-Leigh became part of the BFBS team in 2021. Her journey in Radio began at the age of 15 when she took to the airwaves on her school radio station. She then transitioned to local radio before eventually waking Brize Norton in 2022.

Since her arrival, Gemma-Leigh has reported on some significant events, including the inaugural SAF (Sustainable Aviation Flight), the 40th-anniversary remembrance of veterans returning to the Falklands, 47 Squadron stand-down Parade, and the retirement of the C130 Hercules.

She's not one to back down from a challenge, even though she has some fears.

Gemma-Leigh's inner daredevil has led her to broadcast from a daring 20-meterhigh "leap of faith," host live segments from the back of a cart racing at 30mph during the Gravity Grand Prix, and even interviewed while a 14-ft python wrapped around her – all in the pursuit of on-air entertainment. Move over Anneka Rice.

When she's not on the air, you can find Gemma-Leigh on TikTok, enjoying a gripping thriller, or delving into an autobiography.

Don't miss Gemma-Leigh on Brize Norton Breakfast from 6:30 to 10am weekdays for your daily lesson in Too Cool for School where the local school kids give us their fact of the day, handy for the next mess quiz. Listen 106.1fm on the BFBS Radio or ask your smart speaker to ‘Play BFBS Brize Norton’.

Hayley Hammond Hayley Hammond joined the BFBS family in October 2017 and has had the pleasure of being overseas since then on tours in Gibraltar, Bahrain, and Brunei.

She is delighted to now be based in the UK for the next two years at BFBS Brize Norton. So far, she has been lucky enough to be passenger on a C17 and A400 around the Middle East, and was able to experience a night flight on a Puma from TAD camp to HQRS in Kabul. She has been to sea with the Royal Navy, and into the jungle on exercise with the Army via the jungle uber that was the Bell 212 with the Army Air Corps.

When she's not working, you can usually find her running or cycling around the community, sewing, baking, or exploring the local area. She is also a professional singer and has performed at numerous events over the past 10 years – including a variety of mess parties… so if ever you need a singer for an event – just get in touch!

Join me on air at 106.1fm or on the BFBS Radio app weekdays from 1-4pm and see if you can get the answer right on ‘LyricBusters’ and ‘Three’s a Crowd!’

20

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

A400M Atlas Enterprise Visit

TEAM

In June, 24 personnel from across the A400M Atlas Enterprise (DE&S, QinetiQ and RAF) were invited to visit RAF Brize Norton.

T

he visit was designed to give a more informed picture of our common goals, and to build an understanding of how their A400M projects affect the Front-Line.

QinetiQ Technical Graduate - Matt the A400M Cock pit.

The scene was set by a brief from Flt Lt Tom Chatterton (206 Sqn), he expanded on how the projects are tested and evaluated in preparation for graduation to the frontline.

Glass in

The visitor’s feedback was overwhelmingly positive, expressing the overall value of speaking to the frontline personnel and seeing their projects in use. They also spoke of the great motivator it was and how they would be encouraging others in their team to attend the next visit.

Sgt Craig Harkess (47AD) talked about his role within the squadron, including testing and the type of operations they are involved with. The visitors were taken into the main hanger to view and gain an understanding of the air despatch loads and boats.

On arrival at XXIV Sqn, Wg Cdr Gav Anderson (OC 24 Sqn) provided an informative brief on the role of the Sqn, the Atlas training, and the progression of newly received Atlas tactical capabilities.

The visitors were then split-up so they could view the aircraft simulator with Flt Lt Maggs, cargo hold trainer with Sgt Will Anstis and across to 30 Sqn to view the aircraft with Flt Lt Tez Hillman and Sgt Rob Small.

QinetiQ A400M AirCap Acceptance Team (Left to Right – Marc Sheridan / Matt Glass / Seoul Weare / Charles Eilley / Phil Mayall / Paul Griffin/ Jeff Jones / Steve Young.

DES & QinetiQ A400M Programme team Visit to Brize Norton.

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

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501 Sqn - Junior Personnel Development Course In August. No. 501 Sqn Royal Auxiliary Air Force Sqn at RAF Brize Norton ran a Junior Personnel Development Course (JDC).

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he course gave an insight into the Leadership and management skills required of a JNCO in the RAF. To be able to lead personnel, you must understand and know yourself. The group of 9 personnel started a journey of self-discovery. The course contained elements of: Strength Deployment Inventory (SDI) SDI is exactly that, an inventory of our behavioural strengths and underlying motivations. It is much more of a learning and discussion tool than a measure of personality. At the Strength Deployment Inventory’s core are four underpinning principles: • We all do what we do because we want to feel good about ourselves -behaviour is driven by motivation.

• We tend to take two different approaches to life; 1. when we feel things are going well, and 2. when we feel that we are faced with opposition or conflict.

• A personal weakness is no more or no less than the overdoing or misapplying of a personal strength.

• We naturally tend to perceive the behaviours of others through our own Motivational Value System.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) A wellbalanced, empathetic, and friendly person is more emotionally aware than an unempathetic and demotivated individual. By the end of the session, they were able to understand: • The ability to recognize own emotions • The ability to relate to others’ emotions • The ability to actively listen to others • The ability to actively participate in interpersonal communication and understand the nonverbal cues of behaviour • The ability to control one’s thoughts and feelings • The ability to effectively manage emotions and express them in a socially acceptable way • The ability to receive criticisms positively and benefit from them

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Coaching and Mentoring (C&M) Coaching and mentoring are great for helping staff to learn new skills or enhance current skills while increasing their confidence, too. It doesn't matter who the employee is, there's something they can learn. Through the C&M period they were looking at how this can: • Increased confidence • Produce better leadership development • Personal development of employees • Team efficiency • Resolving issues • Increased employee engagement and retention • Improved employee performance Command Leadership Tasks (CLT) Command tasks are group exercises used in training and designed to encourage a wide range of team skills. They are used by many military organisations and thanks to the expansive amount of command tasks available, they can be shaped to the specific needs and abilities of different groups. CLT bring groups together and develop a wide set of team skills, such as: • Communication • Non-verbal communication • Cooperation • Leadership • Giving instructions • Problem-solving • Logic • Planning • Resource management It was a great week, and the Sqn thanks all the guest facilitators for helping us on this voyage of discovery. One of the Facilitators stated:

“Pleased to Serve Last week I had the pleasure of facilitating training for a group of individuals from 501 Sqn RAuxAF undergoing Leadership Training. Their backgrounds were extremely varied, but it was clear how cohesive a group they had become. Their diversity of outlook, experience and thought was not a barrier but a boon, an inclusive environment allowed them to share with and learn from each other.

Their desire to learn, develop and grow both as individuals and emergent leaders was palpable and invigorating. That individuals are willing to give of their time, to put their (often better paid) civilian jobs to one side, and to travel long distances to serve as a reservist was affirming of my own purpose. It made me think that when I consider myself to be busy am I really, if these individuals can juggle two jobs in two different locations how busy am I in comparison?

These individuals are proud to serve and for two days I was exceptionally pleased to serve them.”

We look forward to watching the group grow and move onwards and upwards in their journey with the RAuxAF - Per ardua ad astra

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

Celebrating a Double Honours and Awards Ceremony

TEAM

Last Month, we held two ceremonies for Air Officer Commanding 1 Group, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Mark Flewin and Air Officer Commanding 2 Group, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Suraya Marshall, to present awards to RAF Brize Norton personnel.

O

ver thirty-five people were recognised for their achievements at the ceremonies, which were held in the Officers’ Mess and attended by their families and friends.

Air Vice Marshal Flewin and AVM Marshall took the opportunity to carry out the Annual Formal Inspection and were able to visit many different areas around Station. AVM Marshall visited Community Support and met with the team involved in the COMPASS Focus Group and discussed the support it offered to families who have children with special educational needs and disabilities. The visit continued to the airfield to see our ongoing innovation projects, including Project Shadow and

Project Smartbase, which aim to digitise elements of the aerodrome and exploit data, allowing informed decisions to be made at pace. AVM Marshall went on to meet with personnel from Tactical Medical Wing, 2 Squadron RAF Regiment, No. 1 Air Mobility Wing and No. 1 Flight Tactical Police and Security Squadron, as part of a series of interactive demonstrations highlighting their contribution as global enablers to recent operations mounted from RAF Brize Norton in support of wider Defence commitments. AVM Flewin was given updates on the Air Mobility Force and, whilst visiting the Voyager hub, platform representatives briefed on the activities of the Atlas Force, C-17 Globemaster, Voyager Force and 32 Squadron.

Station Commander, Group Captain Claire O’Grady said: "It was a pleasure to welcome AVM Marshall and AVM Flewin to RAF Brize Norton yesterday for our Annual Formal Inspection. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase some of the brilliant work and initiatives and also meet the incredible talented people we have here.

Both Commander Air Wing and I were exceptionally proud to see personnel rewarded for their efforts and dedication at the Honours and Awards ceremonies."

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

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Families Day and Brizefest 2023 On Saturday 2nd September, RAF Brize Norton held its annual Families’ Day and ‘Brizefest’ music concert which is a key event in recognising and rewarding personnel from across the Whole Force, their families and many within the wider community, for their exceptional support and contribution to the Air Mobility Fleet and UK Defence Operations.

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ttended by approximately 12,000 people, Families Day offered a huge range of the activities, stalls and attractions for all to enjoy. From motorcycle stunt displays, funfair rides, a vast array of brilliant cars and aircraft to look around, to some magnificent fly throughs from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster Bomber and much much more, a great day was had by all. The evening transcended into a fantastic music festival with a huge mix of [tribute] artists and bands. Be it Dua Live, Only Olly, Duke, Boomin and our headline act of Bon Jiovi to finish, the event was dazzling mix of performances, capped off with a spectacular firework display.

© Mark Bentley Headliner act Bon Giovi.

Families Day 2023.

Families Day 2023.

© Mark Bentley Brizefest stage.

As ever, we thank our local businesses, organisations and charities for their support on the day. A huge thank you also goes out to local community for their excellent support on the day; it was great to see so many local organisations represented, and we look forward seeing many more of you at Families Day and Brizefest in 2024…

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BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

Rockets Motorcycle Display.

RAF BRIZE NORTON’S

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Draw to take place on RAF Brize Norton’s Bonfire night

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25

Memories of RAF Brize Norton After four years as a member of 99 Squadron, Air Training Corps, I joined the RAF in 1961 and re-mustered to Air Quartermaster in 1969. My first posting was 99 Squadron Britannias.

A

t the end of the Conversion Course we had a nice trip to obtain our ‘Cats’. A world trainer, all the way round the globe in fourteen days! Two crews, plus our instructors and a Ground Eng, no passengers as we were not qualified.

The route was to the Far East and Hong Kong. Then across the Pacific to the USA via Hawaii. Not sure how they got that one past the money men! A trip of wonderment in the early 70’s! On the way round the poor Co-Pilots had to run the multi-currency Imprest as well as getting to grips with Airways type route flying. Their brains were probably a couple of days behind the aircraft by the end.

HALO at JATE 1990 – off they go.

contact with home in those days, except for a postcard, which would arrive back after you. But the wives were a resilient bunch and were used to running everything. In fact they sometimes resented us reappearing.

A favoured task was the six week Hong Kong detachment, taking Ghurkha families back and forth to Nepal, via Calcutta. A quiet night in Kathmandu, followed by six noisy ones in Hong Kong. I also remember a six week tour of India, Pakistan and Iran with the Royal College of Defence Studies. The Britannia fleet was sadly a defence cut in early 1976 and I moved to Odiham as a Puma Crewman.

After Pumas I spent the next fourteen years on the C130. Three of those years were back at Brize on JATE. We were mainly doing parachute trials and how to drop things out of the back of a Hercules. One of my tasks was a complete rewrite of the C130 airdrop publication. This took me eighteen months and I wasn’t allowed to keep a copy as it was ‘Restricted’. There were lots of away trips, mainly to the USA. We would borrow a Herc from Lyneham on a Monday morning and return it on a Friday afternoon. We had a full crew, but with two Captains and two Loadmasters. My daughter was going through Cranwell at the time and we could airdrop Mars Bars to them whilst they were out on the moors. My most memorable drop was 40,000lb of ammunition at night, from less than twenty feet, wheels down! My saddest detachment was airdropping grain in the highlands of Ethiopia, during the awful famine.

My last tour at Brize was 1994 on the VC10. A very civilised way to fly, with trips to Dulles and Belize. The RAF offered me a redundancy package, even though I only had eighteen months left. I was looking at the 10 Squadron archives one day when I came across the original signal informing them of the Armistice, 99 Sqn Britannia at Brize.

Our flying was Worldwide, but our main task was the ‘Changi Slip’. A Britannia would depart every day of the year for Singapore. Take off was normally in the middle of the night and the crew would slip in Akrotiri, Bahrain, Gan and Singapore. Sometime there was a diversion to Colombo or Hong Kong.

The average time away was two weeks.

The Squadron moved from Lyneham to Brize in 1970 and I was away on a ‘Changi Slip’, so the wives had to do the married quarters move. We arrived at Brize in the dark hours and all the relevant information was in the stand down book, except where I lived! I spent the night in the Mess with poor wife wondering where the hell I was!

There was no 26

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

COMMUNITY

On the ramp 70 Sdn. coming into effect on the 11th of November 1918. This inspired myself and Chris Perkins, the ALM leader, to organise a 10 Sqn tour back to their First World War airfields in France and Belgium.

‘Shiny 10’ – somewhere in USA.

When I left the RAF I took a job as a Military History tour guide in Europe and America for a leading UK company.

I specialised in WW1, WW2, Aviation, the American Civil War and much more.

Twenty years of touring saw me finally retire a few months ago. I returned to Brize for the 100th anniversary of 99 Sqn. The parade layout was the same as the 1976 disbandment version, except there was a C17 instead of a Britannia parked

by Base hanger!

Happy days and long may RAF Brize Norton flourish. It was great to travel away with a group of six crew, who always stuck together for the route.

A little sad to return to Brize and probably never fly with that same group combination again! I wonder if anyone remembers the RAF Brize Choir from fifty years ago, ‘Patchy Fog’. They made an LP record and were on Television!

I have written a book called ‘See you down the Route Roger’ with many more tales of my adventures. Available on Amazon Kindle.

John Grimwood. ( john.grimwood25@ btinternet.com)

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

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CYBERSPACE CHARITY V50 From 24-30 Jul 23, members of the RAF Brize Norton Cyberspace Team undertook the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) Virtual 50-mile challenge, whilst attempting to raise £1000 for RAFA in sponsorship.

T

hroughout the week, each participant had to complete 50 miles to reach the target.

Miles were made up by walking, running, cycling and swimming. Cpl Alfie McGrath completed some of their miles by bear crawling!

One member of the team, AS1(T ) Simon Birch, who is deployed, completed their miles whilst battling 40°C temperatures. Additionally, Sgt Charlotte Dunn completed their miles whilst on post-operational deployment leave from Cyprus.

On 27 Jul, the team undertook a Cyberspace Team spinning session, lead by our very own Cpl Andrew Edwards.

During the session, several members of the team passed their accumulative 50-mile target, helping them to fully complete their challenge.

Our current total raised for charity is £895, with more donations still coming in! A big thank you to everybody who supported the Cyberspace team and donated. If you would like to donate to help us reach our target, our Just Giving page can be found at: https://www. justgiving.com/page/brize-cyberspaceteam

Naturally, our four-legged friends helped us along with some of the running miles!

AS1 Lindsay Gray was accompanied by their dog Luna for a 6.75-mile run, which saw Lindsay complete their 50mile challenge.

Cpl Kate McGuinness was joined by their dog Scooby on a 9km run around RAF Brize Norton’s camp fence.

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BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

Hounds For Heroes Visit Tactical Medical Wing

CHARITY

Tactical Medical Wing recently had the pleasure hosting Hounds For Heroes founder Allen Parton with his remarkable and intelligent dog ET.

H

ounds for Heroes train assistance dogs for those who have become disabled through injury or illness whilst serving in the Military or the Emergency Services.

The wing were treated to Allen’s inspiring story of how ET changed his life after being injured in the Royal Navy, how the charity was founded and the work they do transforming the lives of so many.

Corporal Kaisy Hindley, Flight Nurse said: “Allen took us on a rollercoaster of emotion and had everyone laughing and crying in equal measure throughout the whole talk. It was a privilege and a humbling experience to meet Allen and ET, it definitely made a difference to all the team at Tactical Medical Wing. It was inspiring to hear how the Hounds can help people and how much they have transformed the lives of so many owners and their families so far. The vision of the charity is to continue expanding and training more Hounds to make a difference to as many people as they can.

The Charity manage solely on donations from the public and appreciate the generosity of all those who fundraise and donate to the” During the visit Allen and ET were given a background tour of 99 Squadron and an even closer look at the Globemaster C-17 aircraft.

BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

Allen said "It is such a huge privilege to be invited back into the Armed

Forces family and see the incredible work that is conducted. To spend the day in the company of such inspirational group of people was amazing and a reminder of a way of life lost to me so many moons ago. Being ex Royal Navy and on an RAF base the banter was brills and relentless but the genuine welcome given to ET was truly humbling. All my previous dogs have visited the base and now ET has followed on in some big paw prints too. Thank you all for such a genuinely warm welcome to both dog and humans yesterday. It was such a privilege and so nice to spend the day back with my services family”

29

The Drennan RAF Coarse Angling Team remains Inter Service champions!

The Army Match Angling Team picked the venue for 2023, electing to host the Inter Services on the Gloucester Canal which included the following sections: Pilot, Permali, Marina, Hempstead Bend & Netheridge.

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n the weeks running up to the event, Drennan RAF anglers spent many days practicing the different sections of the canal. The official practice for all Teams was held on Monday through to Wednesday, with match days on Thursday and Friday.

Each Team is allowed to bring along 15 anglers each year, of which 10 are then chosen to fish on match days. The following personnel were selected.

accommodation, bait, bank running and managing sections, allowing the competing anglers to focus on fishing.

Flt Lt Richard Tomala - RAF Cranwell FS Barry Bright – RAF High Wycombe FS Michael Dalziel - RAF Halton FS Daniel Hurst – RAF Coningsby CT Mark Collinson - RAF Waddington Sgt Andy Beasley – RAF Cosford Sgt Steven Reid – RAF Wittering Sgt Stu Thornton – RAF High Wycombe Cpl Toby Pepper – RAF Marham Cpl Paige Wardle - RAF Brize Norton The following anglers contributed hugely to the Team's success. Organizing

30

Sgt Lee Brackenbury – RAF Coningsby Sgt Paul Tindall - RAF Henlow Cpl Carl Lindley – RAF Benson Cpl Ross Mohan - RAF Brize Norton WO Jonathan Smith (MOD Worthy Down) additionally officiated the event on behalf of the team. His experience and knowledge of the UKAF Constitution and Angling Trust rules made him the obvious choice for this vital role.

Team Captain, FS Daniel Hurst, headed to match HQ to draw the pegs for the Team then much discussion of tactics followed, with all anglers fully prepared ahead of competition day one.

We headed to the bank on Thursday, ready for match 1 of 2. A pleasant day with highs of 22 degrees, light winds and sunshine. This wasn't ideal bream weather and affected the way they fed in some areas - it was apparent they weren't feeding close into the bank, unlike on practice days and an immediate change of tactic was required. Some sections had different species of fish to target that could bolster their overall weight. As always, some sections fished better than others.

Richard Tomala who fished peg 44 at Hempstead, bagged 10 kg 625g which was the highest weight out of the Team.

Some considerable margins stood out in the results, particularly Steven Reid who weighed 5 kg 675g more than his closest competitor. Following closely behind, was Michael Dalziel who was 4 kg 425g ahead. Overall, the Team BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

ADVENTURE & SPORT

fished incredibly well, achieving 7 section wins and 3 thirds. This gave us a total of 16 points, with the Army on 20 and Royal Navy on 24. Knowing we had the tactics right gave us huge confidence going into day 2; we just had to hang on!

Friday, the weather took a slight turn for the worse with higher wind speeds,

showers and lower temperatures. This seemed more agreeable to the fish, with many areas fishing better than the previous day. At the results there were sections with as little as 250 grams between 1st and 3rd placed anglers. Stu Thornton bagged the team a section win from the Marina with 5 kg 375g, over 2 kg

clear of the next angler. Overall, on the team front, we had 6 sections wins, 3 seconds and a third. This gave us a total of 15 points which were added to the previous day, accumulating 31 points altogether. This was 10 points clear of Army who came in second with 41 points and the Royal Navy in third with 48.

Outstanding performances from the following anglers who scored a perfect 2 points by winning their sections both days: A special mention to our Team Manager Mark Collinson and Team Captain Daniel Hurst who work tirelessly to put the Tea in the best possible position at every event.

Michael Dalziel, Steve Reid and Baz Bright.

The Royal Navy are organising the Inter Services 2024; the chosen venue is The Glebe in Leicestershire.

The Windmill at Asthall is alive and thriving!

Despite the recent turbulent years of covid economic uncertainty and lack of staff, this beautiful, high vaulted barn restaurant and venue has continued to be a favourite with Cotswold locals and tourists alike. A familiar landmark, situated off the roundabout on the A40 between Witney and Burford, the Windmill has extensive grounds, safe, ample parking, and boasts spectacular views. The restaurant interior is impressive, with its mellow Cotswold stone walls, and original beams contrasting pleasantly with gentle touches of soft drapes, pretty mirrors and lamps, and an abundance of fairy lights.

The business is family owned and managed, and although the Windmill was for many years run as a carvery, it now offers family service style with a range of roast meats and vegetables with homemade Yorkshire puddings, stuffing and gravy, on Sundays; with a menu of other options too! From Wednesday to Saturday, the menu includes a range of burgers, barbecue chicken and pork ribs, fish and chips, all day breakfast and ‘posh dogs’ making it an ideal venue for casual family lunches. The menu continues to offer old favourites such as a signature chicken dish, poached salmon and homemade steak and ale pie. The tempting dessert menu consists of various baked cheesecakes, waffles, brownies and ice creams. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available.

From the spacious restaurant, there are sweeping views of the Windrush valley. For more formal dinners and weddings, here, groups of up to 75 people can be seated. A further 30 dining seats are available in the adjacent ‘snug’ area.

The Windmill has a reputation for being quite a party place, when its mood lighting comes into play and the disco music starts. Plenty of room for a DJ and a band, to endlessly dance the night away! When your family, group of friends, or company need to relax and celebrate Christmas, the Windmill can provide everything. Good food, a well stocked bar, great music and a fantastic party atmosphere.

A40 ASHALL ROUNDABOUT OX18 4HJ 01993 822 594 | www.windmillvenue.com BRIZE NORTON ISSUE 5 2023

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from mid November we include a free disco, for groups of 60 plus. Contact us for menus and book early for your choice of date. We look forward to hosting you at the Windmill. Open Wednesday to Sunday lunch from 12pm, and Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening from 5.30pm.

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OR TF E L * GREAT FOR WEDDINGS F T AND N LEA U S I PARTIES OEARLY FOR TH * BOOK C G S S N I I A*Y IDEAL DGROUPS CHRISTMAS BR D K

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E EUP FOR TO 110 * 10GROUPS W N O

Spectacular Views • Delicious Food • Warm Welcome POP IN FOR LUNCH

WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY. Open for lunchTHURSDAY, and dinner Wednesday to Sunday

SUNDAY LUNCHor(RESERVATIONS ADVISABLE) (lunch only Sundays) pop in for coffee or a drink

Ideal for families Ideal for date nights or meeting friends SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR MENU SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR MENU www.windmillvenue.com www.windmillvenue.com | 01933 822 594 01993 822 594 A40 Ashall Roundabout OX18 4HJ A40 ASHALL ROUNDABOUT, OX18 4HJ