Technology is something that we all embrace daily, and learning new things through Apps and YouTube (other platforms are available, apparently!) is second nature to all of us. To take time away from the screen however, is absolutely essential to our well-being. At this time of year, with Spring very much Springing,
it does you good to get outside and appreciate the great outdoors. The young Gunners graduating from Basics in this edition of the Herald, may have a slightly different view on the benefits of fresh air and exercise, and ‘being away from the screen’, having spent so much time in the field over the past year, but I’m sure they’ll look back on all that wholesome outdoorsy fun with fondness in the years ahead. Congratulations to all of them, and of course to their hard
working instructors and support staff. As ever, as Editor of this fine periodical, I must tip my hat to all the contributors to this Edition – thank you for some excellent articles – and also say a big thank you to Jo at Lance Media for turning our scribblings and snaps into a professional looking magazine. Enjoy the Spring time, and see you for the Summer Edition in a few months.
Station Commander’s Foreword
As we usher in this spring edition of the Honington Herald, marked by an awesome photograph of a Chinook on the front cover, the longer days and warmer weather remind us that the season of renewal is finally here. I hope you were able to enjoy some down-time over the Christmas and Near Year period (which already feels like a life time ago), and have settled into the battle rhythm of 2025.
Imust admit, the lead up to Christmas passed in a blur of visits and events – including a visit from our 3 star Air and Space Commander Air Marshal Marshall, the 5-a-side football, the Santa Run and of course the very enjoyable exchange drinks. January didn’t feel like the warm-up to the new year that I had expected and hoped for, and with the seemingly increasing number of FGens coupled with extant deployments, exercises and training courses, the Station and our Resident Units already feel busier than ever.
The RAF Regiment Training Wing Trainee Gunners have been busy in the field, exercising with live Chinook aircraft from 18 Sqn and parading in the Jimmy James Hangar, where Meiktila Flight graduated into the RAF Regiment after 22 weeks of arduous training. It was a privilege to meet so many proud friends and family during the graduation parade in the Jimmy James Hangar - congratulations to all involved!
In this edition, I know that the history enthusiasts among you will particularly enjoy our spotlight on Station history. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of retired and serving volunteers, our newly opened Station History Room is
a real gem and well worth a visit. While it may not yet rival the scale of the RAF Regiment’s Heritage Centre, its potential is undeniable, and the team is always grateful for any additional volunteers. You’ll also find a fascinating article about members of IX (Bomber) Squadron, who were once based here at RAF Honington, flying Vickers Wellingtons, and their connection to the Great Escape and the ‘Jimmy James’ Hangar.
Martin and Judy Brooks have contributed an article on the fantastic 1st Honington (RAF) Scout Group, which provides activities, team working opportunities and friendship for children of all ages across Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.
As the group’s Treasurer and active adult helper for Scouts and Cubs, I can personally vouch for the brilliant activities they provide, including camping, laser quest, air rifle shooting, ten-pin bowling, and much more. If you’re new to Honington, or your children are seeking an exciting and enjoyable new challenge, please do reach out to Martin and Judy Brooks for more information.
As we surge ahead in this season of renewal, it’s clear that we all have a busy period ahead. The shifting geopolitical landscape
of the northern hemisphere, combined with the normal Ops and Ex readiness cycles of many of our Resident Units, means that Station personnel will be working at full capacity to support those who need it most. So that we all have the chance to train and relax – whatever your preference - my Station personnel have been busy developing, sourcing and installing the very best sporting and community focused amenities. As I type, it gives me great pleasure to finally announce that the Station’s
So that we all have the chance to train and relax – whatever your preference - my Station personnel have been busy developing, sourcing and installing the very best sporting and community focused amenities. As I type, it gives me great pleasure to finally announce that the Station’s new astroturf pitch surface is being laid, and once complete, we’ll mark the occasion with a grand opening football tournament.
new astroturf pitch surface is being laid, and once complete, we’ll mark the occasion with a grand opening football tournament. In the gym, many of you will have noticed the new ‘body-beautiful’ Pulse / Technogym equipment, which is part of a rental contract so that we provide the most modern and functional fitness gear. The FTA is also undergoing considerable upgrades, with a new Olympic grade floor being installed and a full wall and ceiling redecoration in preparation for the Beaverfit rig and new items of equipment.
Meanwhile, the Padres have moved into building 336A - the former RRU cabins, located next to the gym and swimming pool - and have created a superb new Wellness Area. They are always eager to welcome you, share a brew, and chat so do stop by and say hello!
https://www.rafmags.com/magazines/ Honington Herald is now available online:
AIR & SPACE COMMANDER VISITS
GLOBAL ENABLEMENT HQ
On 22nd October 2024
RAF Honington hosted a visit from the Air and Space Commander (ASC), Air Marshal Allan Marshall RAF OBE MA. The purpose of the visit was to give him an opportunity to visit all elements under the Global Enablement pillar - the Global Enablement HQ staff, the Combat Readiness Force (CRF) and the Air Security Force (ASF).
Following a quick office call with Stn Cdr Honington, the Air Marshal received a series of briefs and interactive demonstrations from the CRF at the Synthetic Complex Air Ground Environment in the Force Protection Centre and at the Complex Air Ground Environment Training Facility.
Demonstrations included a Close Quarter Battle scenario by 15 Sqn RAF Regt; observing Trainee Gunners during a lesson on the introduction to basic Fire and Manoeuvre by members of Meiktila Flt; and equipment briefs from members of 2 Counter-Uncrewed
Aerial Systems (CUAS) on the latest training aids and equipment used on Operations.
Other briefs included updates on from the Information Activity and Outreach team, Counter-CBRN team, Proj LUMINITE and members of 2623 Sqn. Briefs from 1 Counter Intelligence & Security Wing, 2 Police and Security Wg and the Air Wing Security Flt updated the ASC on new procedures surrounding Counter Threat Reporting, Protective Security, Investigations, Counter Surveillance Activity and Successful Prosecution.
Flt Lt Anth Barella CRF HQ
IX(B) SQUADRON – GREAT ESCAPE MEDALS AND THE HONINGTON CONNECTION
Second World War medals posthumously awarded to Flight Lieutenant James “Cookie” Long have been welcomed home to IX (Bomber) Squadron, the RAF squadron on which he served as a Wellington bomber pilot based at RAF Honington before being downed, captured, and taking part in the Great Escape.
Long was the last of 50 recaptured prisoners to be summarily executed by the Gestapo on the orders of Adolf Hitler, enraged by the mass escape from Stalag Luft III in 1944.
The IX (Bomber) Squadron Association of former squadron members, relatives and friends raised the funds needed to purchase the medals after they featured in a Daily Mail article in May 2024, and has placed them in the Squadron’s safe keeping at its Lossiemouth headquarters. They will be displayed in Long’s memory together with his leather flying helmet and goggles, previously gifted to the Squadron by his family.
Association Chair, Group Captain James Heeps led fund-raising and negotiated the acquisition
from collector Russell Lellman, an accountant from New Zealand who handed over the medals during a recent visit to the UK.
The medals were received by Officer Commanding IX (Bomber) Squadron, Wing Commander Chris Pearson, who by remarkable coincidence is the nephew of Lieutenant Alec Wright, another prisoner of war photographed with Long at Stalag Luft III.
Also welcoming the medals home was Association member, Wing Commander (Retired) Ian Shore, son of Flight Lieutenant John Shore, the captain to whom Long was co-pilot on the fateful night of 27 March 1941 and who successfully escaped back to the UK in October that year. Ian posed for photographs with his father’s medals laid beside Long’s, his very presence a poignant symbol of the two men’s differing fates.
Group Captain James Heeps said:
“We have always been proud of our Squadron’s heritage and over the years have attended many Great Escape anniversary events to remember Cookie, but even so I was surprised by the speed and generosity of Association members’ responses to the fundraising campaign which enabled this purchase. I am delighted to welcome Russell Lellman as an honorary member of the Association in recognition of his generosity in withdrawing the medals from auction and selling well below valuation to enable their return home to the IX (Bomber) Squadron family.”
Flt Lt Cookie Long
IX Squadron Vickers Wellingtons
Wing Commander Shore said:
“Cookie nearly escaped with my father and was the only one of his crew not to make it home. It was an honour to be present with my father’s medals at this special
RAF Honington Station
Commander, Wing Commander Max Hayward said: “RAF Honington’s most well-known link to IX(B) Sqn is through pilot Flight Lieutenant (later Squadron Leader) Bertram “Jimmy” James MC who departed from Honington in a Wellington in June 1940 and was
shot down over Holland. He was at Stalag Luft I with John Shore and attempted the escape on the same night as Shore, but wasn’t so lucky and was sent to the cells. Over the next 5 years, Jimmy made numerous escape attempts, including from Stalag Luft III as part
of the Great Escape. Eventually Jimmy was freed by the Allies, returned to Blighty and became an RAF Regiment Officer. We now have a hangar named after him – the Jimmy James Hangar (the Gateway to the RAF Regiment). “
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Whole Force station personnel at RAF Honington came together recently for the official opening of the RAF Honington History Rooms, opened by Station Commander, Wg Cdr Max Hayward.
OPENING OF THE STATION HISTORY ROOM
Over the past 12 months, a team of dedicated volunteers have converted the disused former dispersal room, to a space dedicated to the aviation history of Honington from its creation on 3 May 1937 to the final Royal Air Force 13 Sqn Tornado departing 1 February 1994. The widely varied past of RAF Honington under both the Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Force gives visitors a varied and fascinating insight into this important Suffolk air station.
Wg Cdr Hayward said:
“I am extremely grateful for the time and dedication that all the volunteers have shown towards achieving success in providing
the station with a unique record, now being brought together and preserved for the benefit of the station and wider community”.
Warrant Officer Mark Margrave, OIC History Room said:
“Many people from across the station, past and present, have made this happen through donations, the use of vehicles, financial advice, ordnance certification and just simply lending a hand to move the multitude of items that we have here in the History Room. The story is by no means over, and we are always on the look-out for interesting articles and tales directly associated to the station and whilst we may not
have the space, we do intend to keep the story ‘alive’ with regular refreshes and updates to displays currently presented. I’d like to give a personal shout out to Mr Ian Welch, Mr Graham Williams, Mr John Bugg, Mr Bob Archer, Mr Duncan Cook, Ms Vanessa Love, Cpl Andrew Herbert and AS1(T) Hughes for all they have done to get this facility up and running.”
If you would like to visit the History Room, donate artefacts or volunteer some of your time, please contact WO Margrave/Cpl Herbert or ring the History Rooms landline Tues/Thurs on 01359 237844.
by WO Mark Margrave OIC History Room
Padre’s Piece
A Season of Renewal
As winter fades and spring takes hold, we are reminded of the power of renewal. The changing seasons reflect something fundamental about life: the potential for growth, fresh beginnings, and hope after even the harshest conditions.
Spring doesn’t announce itself with fanfare. It begins quietly - a few green shoots through frosted ground, birds tentatively testing their songs, and days stretching just a little longer. It’s a process, not an event. For many of us, life feels the same. Challenges, whether personal or professional, can feel endless in the moment. The dark winters of our minds tell us we’ll never see the light again. But like spring, hope doesn’t need to arrive all at once - it can start small, one step, one act, or one connection at a time.
As members of the RAF community, we understand this rhythm well. Training isn’t about instant transformation; it’s about small, consistent steps that build something greater. Respect grows as we learn to appreciate one another’s differences. Integrity develops through steady commitment to doing what’s right, even in the face of difficulty. Excellence is achieved not by grand gestures but through consistent effort to improve, day by day. And service? It’s often in the smallest gestures that the greatest strength is shown: offering support, encouragement, or a listening ear.
Spring reminds us that progress is
often invisible before it becomes undeniable. It’s worth reflecting on that as we navigate our own challenges, whatever they may be.
For those who are early in their journey - new recruits, trainees, or those stepping into new civilian roles - it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what lies ahead. But growth is a process, and no one is expected to have all the answers from the start. The key is to focus on the next step, the next opportunity to learn, and to trust that, in time, progress will become clear. Every seasoned professional was once a beginner, and every journey is made up of small, steady steps forward.
For those further along in their journey, remember the role you play in fostering growth around you. Spring teaches us that environments matter. Just as plants need the right soil, light, and water, people need the right encouragement, boundaries, and examples. In every interaction, you have the power to create a culture of respect, integrity, and excellence - a space where those around you can thrive.
Community is at the heart of this. RAF Honington is not just a workplace; it’s a network of
individuals supporting each other. Whether in shared struggles, quiet acts of kindness, or moments of collective pride, we each contribute to the well-being of those around us. The strength of the RAF lies not just in its aircraft or its missions but in its people - people who work together to achieve something greater than themselves.
As spring unfolds, take time to notice the signs of growth around you. It might be in the new confidence of a colleague, the camaraderie of a shared laugh, or even the quiet resolve of someone pressing on through difficulty. Each of these is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit
and the enduring hope that renewal brings.
The poet Rainer Maria Rilke once wrote, “The only journey is the one within.” This spring, as the world around us comes to life, consider your own journey. Where have you grown? What potential lies within you, waiting to bloom? And how can you, in turn, nurture growth in those around you?
In the end, spring isn’t just a season - it’s an invitation. An invitation to begin again, to grow, and to hope.
Something to think about!
Padre David
PLEASE NOTE:
The Chaplaincy Centre is now located in building 336A – the former RRU portacabins located next to the gym. As ever, welcome to pop in for a brew!
1ST HONINGTON (RAF) SCOUT GROUP
We have Beavers for children aged 6-8, Cubs for children age 8-101/2 and Scout for children aged 101/2 -14. We are run by a small team of dedicated volunteers and are always happy to welcome new adult volunteers to our team, either to help run the Sections or to help manage the Group. Our usual meeting days are on a Monday 6.30-8 (Cubs), Tuesday 6.15-7.30 (Beavers) and Wednesday 7-9 (Scouts).
Last term our Scouts camped, hiked, learnt to use axes, knives and saws safely, tried tomahawk throwing and took part in a District dodgeball competition. Cubs camped, learned how to read a map, hiked, had a singing lesson, took part in Parliament Week, made Christmas cakes and had a Christmas craft evening. Beavers learned how to ride their bikes safely, tried their hand at air rifle shooting, learned to tie knots, went to Colchester Zoo,
decorated Christmas biscuits, made Christmas decorations and went to the Pantomime,. The whole Group attended the Bury St Edmunds Remembrance Day Parade and the RAF Honington Christingle and Carol Service.
This term our various Programmes include Ten Pin Bowling, Highland Games, Pancakes, Airfix modelling, Laser Quest, hiking, knots, fire safety and Camps.
If you are interested in your child joining one of our Sections or you would like to volunteer, please contact Judy Brooks, e-mai: judy.brooks2010@btinternet.com, phone
or Martin Brooks e-mail: gsl1sthoningtonraf@gmail.com, phone number 07531 560701.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION FLIGHT
On 17 Dec 24, the Physical Education Flight hosted an indoor 5-a-side tournament between the Officers, WO & SNCOs and the Junior Ranks. The Juniors provided 2 teams and one team each from the Officers & Seniors. After a round robin, in which all 6 games were close affairs, the Officers and JNCO Blue Team competed for the 3rd, which the Officers edged it to claim the glory of 3rd place.
The final therefore was between the WO & SNCOs vs the 2nd JNCO team. With numerous RAF players on show, the final was of a high standard. The round robin had produced a stalemate 0-0, so we anticipated another close game. As expected, chances were few and far between but in the final minute of the game, Cpl Barningham stuck the winner, to leave the JNCOs the overall winners.
Just a very big thank you to Wg Cdr Haywood for his officiating the whole tournament and a call for next year, as we would like to make it an 11-a-side event. Notices will be sent out in 2025.
Thanks for all the players and captains for assisting on the day, well done to all teams.
WO Phil Thompson, WO PEd Formal Training
Wg Cdr Hayward presenting the Trophy to Cpl Conall Barningham, JNCO Team Captain
Winning Team
The festive season was in full swing as the Station Commander started the annual 5k Santa Run to raise funds and awareness for the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA).
Organised by Sgt Adam Foster, along with help from the station’s dedicated Royal Air Force Association Liaison Officers (RAFALOs) and station volunteers, the event had over 50 participants from across the base. It brought together serving personnel, families, and supporters in a heartwarming display of community and holiday cheer, raising over £200.
A highlight of the day was the creativity and enthusiasm of the runners, many of whom swapped their usual fitness gear for festive themed clothing and listening to the jingle of bells from their clothing, as personnel navigated the route.
For those who were looking to make good time, the competition was fierce. Leading the charge were AS2 Garratt and AR Howard-Hall, who crossed the finish line in an impressive 18 minutes, setting the standard for speed and endurance. However, the day wasn’t just about quick finishes—it was also about raising awareness for RAFA and bringing people together for a meaningful cause.
SANTA RUN 2024
RAFA’s mission is to support the RAF community, including serving personnel, veterans, and their families. The association provides a wide range of welfare services, such as financial assistance, housing support, and mental health initiatives. RAFA also works to combat loneliness and isolation through programs like befriending services and respite care. Events like the Santa Run not only help fund these vital services but also foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose among the RAF family.
The station’s RAFALOs, who act as a vital link between RAFA and the RAF community, played a pivotal role in organising the event. Liaison Officers are responsible for identifying individuals and families in need, promoting RAFA’s services, and creating opportunities for the community to come together in support of the charity’s mission.
All in all, the RAF Honington Santa Run was a resounding success, combining fitness, festive fun, and charitable giving into one memorable event. It perfectly captured the true spirit of the season and the positive nature of the personnel we have at RAF Honington coming together as a community to support a worthy cause. The RAFALOs hope to build on this success in the coming year, with plans for more events and initiatives to engage the base and support RAFA’s mission. The RAFALO team would like to express a huge thank you to those who
organised, supported, participated and donated.
In addition to organising events, the RAFALOs at RAF Honington are actively seeking new members to join their committee. Anyone interested in making a positive
impact in their community is encouraged to contact Flt Lt Madeleine Morgan or Sgt Adam Foster to learn more about how they can get involved.
RAF Honington RAFALOs
Combat Readiness Force (CRF) Training Wing - RTS (B)
by Sgt Trevor Buckley
TG 5-24 Salalah Flt began their phase 2 training in late Dec 24 where their started with functional skills in Maths and English each walking away with at least a level 1 in both subjects, before being stood down for Christmas leave.
On return, they were straight back to work with weapon training and firing practice on the range. Their hard work paid off with all TGS passing the ACMT in preparation for Live Firing Tactical Training (LFTT) later in the course. Salalah Flt are currently studying navigation theory before they deploy on their first fieldcraft exercise, where they will refine their navigational abilities and develop essential fieldcraft skills.
El Alamein Flight (El Al) has successfully completed all MOD1 relevant range packages, achieving a 100% pass rate for all participants. Over the past three months, the Trainee Gunners (TGs) have undergone rigorous training, culminating in a series of challenging Fieldcraft exercises, including Ex Competent Patrol Member (CPM).
A key highlight of Ex CPM was the TGs first trooping flight in a CH47, provided by 18 Sqn, RAF Odiham. Following their orders, El Al were airlifted from Honington to STANTA to begin an eight-day
assessment exercise. Ex CPM was further supported by Puma Force from 28 Sqn, giving the TGs a unique opportunity to engage in “Eagle VCP” and CASEVAC scenarios.
Throughout Ex CPM, the TGs demonstrated their skills in a variety of operational settings, working consistently to refine their tactical awareness and competence. The Ex concluded with a simulated Red Force attack, putting El Als defensive posture to the test. Despite the intense challenge, the Flt successfully held their ground, proving their readiness for MOD2. El Al now moves forward, having gained valuable experience and exposure to real-world military scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of their roles.
Salalah (Flt Sgt Fleming)
After 22 weeks of arduous training 24 TG’s of Meiktila graduated into the RAF Regiment on 13th February. With postings to 1 Sqn, 2 Sqn, 15 Sqn, 51 Sqn and 63 Sqn the new Gunners are extremely excited about what lies ahead. The last 7 weeks of training is designed to develop and test the TGs and push them to their limits. This involved Close Quarter Combat, 2 field exercises and finally Live Firing Tactical Training (LFTT) at Sennybridge. Those that passed all aspect have now earned the right to wear the RAF Regiment
“Mudguards.” LFTT was a tough 2 weeks in the hills of Sennybridge, Wales, not just due to the hard training and firing live rounds whilst others were in front of you moving in to assault the enemy, but also because Flt Lt Rayner (OC Meiktila Flt) decided the final section attack would be at the highest point possible making it an extremely hard and testing assault. The graduation of TG 3- 24 was reviewed by Air Commodore David Crook OBE and was viewed by all the graduating Gunners family and friends. A fantastic event
followed by drinks at Busbys and the Gunners heading into Bury St Edmunds to celebrate. A huge
congratulations to all graduating Gunners and a big thank you to the training team.
2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regt
ON THE HUNT - CQB
The Wolf Squadron had an excellent start to the year in January by completing a CQB cadre blowing away the Christmas cobwebs and fine tune skills and drills.
The Wolfpack hunted room by room clearing each scenario moving from basic drills up to sim-on-sim serials.
A great exercise providing gunners at all levels the opportunity to command troops instilling invaluable learning experiences and development.
WELCOME TO THE WOLF PACK
Big congratulations to AR Thorpe and AR Mills for successfully passing their Phase 1 – BRTC Course. The BRTC course comprises of 5 modular weekend followed by a 2-week block at RAF Halton where aviators are tested in basic military skills, as
well as being introduced to the RAF Ethos.
After successfully passing the course, they were welcomed into the Wolf Sqn Family where DSC Flt Lt Chris Priest presented the aviators with their squadron DZs.
WOLF SQUADRON PROMOTIONS
Congratulations to the Wolf Squadron’s newly promoted JNCO’s. After successfully passing they FT1 Course they have come off the board following their hard work and dedication to be promoted. We wish them every success in their career.
AR Mills
AR Thorpe
From left: LCpls Knowles, Boyce, Scott and Roebuck
ENDING THE YEAR WITH A BANG!
As the training year came to a close the Wolf Squadron (2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment) finished the year with a bang! A successful Nov 24 training weekend saw the Wolf Squadron carry out a live grenade range followed by progression to live firing section attack, incorporating the use of live grenades.
This was a great opportunity for gunners to combine and fine tune skills from both the live firing and the grenade range into a realistic serial. It also provided junior commanders the opportunity to command in a realistic scenario stretching them in a controlled setting and allowing them to gain valuable command experience.
In addition, the troops had the pleasure of welcoming both OC 20 Wg RAF Regt, and the Honorary Air Commadore Sir Charles Bowman to the range where they had the opportunity to showcase their skills and drills.
- Al Dyer
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