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Editor’s Welcome

Dear reader,

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Designer: Jo Glen

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I write this foreword from sunnier climes while deployed on Ex NOCTEM WARRIOR in California, so I must admit I feel a little out of the loop with station events. That said, as editor, I always enjoy reading the articles, and even from afar, the strong sense of community, hard work, pride, and care shines through.

This will be my penultimate article before departing Honington. It’s been a genuine pleasure

working with you all and sharing your stories, and I look forward to bringing you one final edition before I leave.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition of the Herald. Your time and effort in sharing updates and stories are greatly appreciated. A special thanks, as always, to Jo Glen, without her dedication and hard work, this publication wouldn’t present the stories so beautifully.

As we look forward to the summer

months, there are plenty of exciting and enjoyable moments ahead, here’s to creating more wonderful memories together.

Flt Lt Emily Palmer

Station Commander’s Foreword

Hello everybody, I hope you are well and thriving at Honington.

Although Exercise AGILE WARRIOR is now complete, we continue to consider and refine our preparations for an uncertain world. The Exercise was designed to enable a Station-wide test of our readiness and resilience, but for all of the preparation we couldn’t have foreseen events in Iran taking place on the preceding weekend.

If we ever needed reminding of the importance for the Exercise, then the middle-East provided a timely reminder of why our continued preparation is so important. Please be reassured that our work in this area is incessant, that we all have a role a play in securing the Station’s outputs and that we must all remain vigilant.

I visited our Station History Room (next to the RAF Regiment Heritage Centre) and highly recommend a visit, perhaps as a team Force Development event. Our Station has a rich and very interesting heritage and, whilst learning more about the impressive variety of aircraft previously operating here, I was struck by how our predecessors have had to show resilience, not least in the face of Battle of Britain Luftwaffe attacks in August 1940 (which sadly claimed the lives of seven and injured many more). The Station was able to recover from this tragedy and continue to deliver its operational outputs – an extreme example of the resilient

mindset we should aim to adopt in testing times.

On a more upbeat note, I write this narrative having just attended the Monster Energy Racing event on the Station. The evening was a tremendous success and saw professional drivers deliver a ‘smoke and drift’ show outside of the Medical Centre (their services were not required!) and ESS provide an amazing array of food stalls, entertainment and lots and lots of Monster energy drinks (we wait to see if this has effects at the Dental Centre…., I hope not). So many thanks and congratulations to those instrumental in the planning and delivery of this remarkable and memorable event; as ever, there are often just a few people who lean in to deliver impressive events. Whilst I am ever grateful, I would also reflect that there are always numerous opportunities to ‘give back’ to the Service and to your Station – what would you like to see at your Station….?

By the time of publication, we will have completed the Annual Formal Visit, the first for our new Air Officer Commanding 2 Group, Air ViceMarshal Lyle, and my first as your Station Commander. I reiterate the message that the outputs and training delivered at the Home of RAF Force Protection are vital to the RAF and, accordingly, vital to the Nation. Please be assured that the role you play at Honington is valuable to Defence and,

consequently, remember that you are a valued member of the Team.

Thank you for all that you do, I recognise that life is somewhat difficult for everyone just now but I know that our community can provide mutual support to overcome whatever challenges come our way.

I will end by saying that I was so relieved to see the weather hold off for last night’s Monster Energy racing event, in our first Spring in Suffolk my family and I are struck by the beauty of this season. I’ve said it before but we are all so lucky

Thank you for all that you do, I recognise that life is somewhat difficult for everyone just now but I know that our community can provide mutual support to overcome whatever challenges come our way.

to work and live in this stunning corner of the country – do continue to exploit our location.

Enjoy this edition of your Station magazine and continue to look after yourself and those around you.

https://www.rafmags.com/magazines/

Wing Commander Mark Hinde MBA BSc (Hons) RAF

A Key Milestone in RAF Honington’s Transition to Conflict EXERCISE AGILE WARRIOR 26:

Exercise Agile Warrior 26 (AW26) marked a significant step forward in RAF Honington’s ongoing journey to meet the rigorous demands of the Transition To Conflict (TTC) framework.

Running over two weeks, from 2 to 14 Mar, this comprehensive exercise involved all UK Airbases, alongside a wide array of elements from Global Enablement (GE) and other supporting units, underscoring the collaborative effort required to maintain operational readiness in an increasingly complex security environment.

The first week of AW26 focused on resilience and operational continuity. A pivotal development was the establishment of the

Airbase Base Operations Centre (BOC), located upstairs in Station Headquarters (SHQ) on the former PSF floorplate. This new BOC was equipped with both Official Sensitive (OS) and Secret (S) level Data and Voice communications, as well as radio links connecting the Main Guard Room (MGR) and deployed security teams across the Station. This setup was critical in ensuring seamless command and control throughout the exercise.

During this initial phase, personnel faced a series of simulated challenges designed to test the Station’s resilience. This included minor injects such as power outages and MODNET disruptions, which are vital to prepare for in real-world scenarios. Notably, a genuine power outage occurred, temporarily impacting Secret communications and necessitating the

rapid relocation of the BOC to an alternate site. This real-time challenge provided invaluable experience in contingency planning and adaptability under pressure.

Physical fitness and readiness were also emphasised, with Battle Physical Training (PT) sessions scheduled and well attended by personnel across the entire Station, including both Land and Air Resident Units. These sessions reinforced the importance of physical resilience as a cornerstone of operational effectiveness.

The first week culminated dramatically with a hostile Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)

breaching the Station’s airspace, testing the Station’s air defence and rapid response capabilities. This incident set the tone for the second week, which escalated into a full-scale, station-wide physical exercise scenario. Personnel were required to respond to an intruder on Station, followed by a simulated bomb threat, demanding coordinated action from all units and individuals present.

Exercise Agile Warrior 26 is more than just a training event; it represents a crucial stepping stone in RAF Honington’s TTC journey.

The lessons learned and experience gained during this exercise will inform future preparations and ensure that Honington, along with the wider Whole Force, remains ready and resilient in the face of evolving threats. As global security challenges continue to grow, the intensity and complexity of such exercises will only increase, reinforcing the Station’s commitment to safeguarding the United Kingdom and its interests.

Station Commander’s comments post AGILE WARRIOR

I had the amazing fortune of attending (not participating) the Trainee Gunners’ Bayonet Training serials, earlier today. It was so interesting to see the professional and controlled application of aggression amongst all of the trainees. The serials looked really tough and included very robust physical exercises followed by a number of highenergy bayonet ‘applications’. It was genuinely fascinating and a stark reminder of the robust and essential training that is delivered here by the RAF Regiment Training Wing at the home of RAF Force Protection. If you get a chance to view the training, I highly recommend taking the opportunity.

WORKS MANAGEMENT FLIGHT

Another busy end and start to the FY for the Works Management Flight at Honington, with loads of Funding approval forms being approved from Air Infra across station and larger projects.

Most notable and recognisable for those on the station, are the works that have taken place in the JRM where the old serveries, which had been in situe since the building opened, have now been replaced with mobile serveries.

This will allow for food to be piping hot at all times, introducing greater availability to all of those

at RAF Honington and due to the mobile nature of the new serveries, these can be moved to accommodate different food options. This work is all building towards the introduction of the Improved Catering Experience (ICE) projects later this year, focusing on rejuvenating the modern JRM to include a shop and a coffee shop area to access a ‘all in one place’ for SP at RAF Honington.

Not only that, key progress has been made behind Busby’s bar with the demolition of the portacabins which are gradually being pulled down across station, to accommodate a bespoke outdoors parade square which will be a good sight for those coming onto station!

There has also been work to repair the Community Centre boiler, and to have the facility up and running for SP and their families to use. Urgent repairs were also pushed out to the swimming pool to ensure that this unique and key asset could still be enjoyed by all of those on station.

Finally, there has been painting refreshes throughout the Officer’s

Mess for the first time in twenty years, which has allowed for a refresh of the Bar, Ante Room, Dining Room and Corridors to upgrade the look and get it up to keeping with the quality and standard set across station. All of this work couldn’t happen without the excellent Work services team, DIO, VIVO, DODDs and the external contractors that work to keep the station running

HONINGTON THROUGH HISTORY: The Day the Tornados Departed

RAF Honington has long stood at the heart of the Royal Air Force’s operational heritage, but few moments marked a greater turning point in its modern history than the departure of the Tornado GR4 force, an event that symbolised both the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the Station.

For more than three decades, the distinctive roar of the Panavia Tornado echoed across Suffolk skies. Arriving at Honington in the early 1990s, the Tornado force quickly became synonymous with expeditionary air power. From the Balkans and the Gulf to Afghanistan, Honington based personnel supported operations that shaped contemporary RAF doctrine and established a reputation for resilience, adaptability, and logistic excellence.

Tornado GR4 aircraft that defined RAF Honington’s front line identity for a generation.

The drawdown of Tornado operations was not a single

moment, but a carefully managed transition. As aircraft and squadrons were dispersed or disbanded, the Station’s focus began to shift.

For those who served during the period, the departure was deeply symbolic. Ground crews recalled the final wave offs with quiet pride, while engineers and logisticians reflected on years of complex support delivered under demanding operational tempos.

The often-unseen personnel who ensured operational success until the very end.

Yet RAF Honington’s story did not end with the Tornado. Instead, the Station reinvented itself as a centre of excellence for Force Protection, logistics, and combat service support. The arrival of new units and the expansion of specialist capabilities ensured Honington remained operationally relevant in a changing defence environment.

Veterans of the Tornado era often speak of the transition with a sense of continuity rather than loss.

Skills honed supporting fast jet operations were transferred into expeditionary ground support, reinforcing the Station’s role in enabling global RAF operations.

Today, RAF Honington stands as a reminder that heritage is not just preserved in aircraft or buildings, but in people. The legacy of the Tornado lives on in the standards, professionalism, and ethos carried forward by those who served beneath its wings.

As Honington continues to look ahead, it does so with confidence—rooted firmly in a past that shaped its present.

‘‘

For more information and bookings to the RAF Honington History Rooms please contact WO Margrave / Sgt Herbert via TEAMS (RAF Regt HQ) to learn all about the stations varied aviation history or to discuss volunteering opportunities.

From the Padre…

Finding Hope in the Ordinary Moments

There is something slightly unusual about summer in uncertain times.

Even while the world feels noisy, fast-moving, and frequently unsettled, ordinary life continues. The seasons still change. The evenings stay lighter for longer. Families and friends try to spend time together, people look ahead to leave or deployments, and amidst the pace of life there are still opportunities - however brief - to pause, rest, and reconnect.

And yet, if we are honest, many of us carry a strange tension at the moment too.

We live in a world that often feels uncertain. News headlines move rapidly from one crisis to another. People worry about finances, family, health, relationships, operational pressures, and what the future might hold. Even in the middle of summer, life does not suddenly become simple. Behind the smiles and social media photos, many people are still carrying

private burdens that others know little about.

Perhaps that is why the ordinary moments of summer matter more than we sometimes realise.

A conversation over a coffee. Sitting in the garden after a long day. A barbecue with friends. Taking proper leave. Checking in on someone who has gone quiet. Laughing with colleagues. Reconnecting with family. Making time simply to be present with one another again.

As a military community, we are often very good at pushing on, getting the job done, and focusing on the next task. But human beings were never designed to operate at full pace all the time. Rest matters.

Community matters. Friendship matters. And hope is very often found not in dramatic gestures, but in the small reminders that we do

not carry life alone.

From a chaplain’s perspective, I have always believed that hope is not about pretending difficulties do not exist. It is about recognising that even in uncertain times, kindness, compassion, humour, friendship, and community still endure. We still look out for one another. We still gather together. We still find moments of peace and perspective amongst the busyness of life.

So as summer unfolds across RAF Honington, I hope people are able to find opportunities to pause, rest, reconnect, and look after themselves and one another.

Whether you are deploying, returning home, remaining on duty, supporting family, or simply trying to keep pace with a busy season of life - never underestimate the value of small acts of care and human connection.

Sometimes those things matter more than we know.

With every blessing to you and yours,

Padre David will shortly be deploying overseas for a period of operational duty. During this time, part-time chaplaincy cover at RAF Honington will be provided by reservist Padre Paul Mellor, alongside additional support from the chaplaincy team at RAF Marham. The Chaplaincy can continue to be contacted through the RAF Honington Chaplaincy multi-user email account: HON-StnChaplaincy@mod.gov.uk

Padre David

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RAF HONINGTON CATERING FLIGHT

Advance Skills Course, Catering Training Wing: AS1 Emily Jones and AS1 Callum Dixon (Logs Chef)

AS1’s Jones and Dixon completed their Advanced Catering Skills Course, at the Catering Training Wing (CTW). The course is design to enhance their kitchen skills and provide more refined techniques for high-profile VIP events.

The course challenged them to step outside their comfort zones and think creatively. Over four weeks, they produced a variety of dishes that complemented their unique skill sets.

Jones and Dixon commented on the new skills they gained and how they plan to use these in future menu planning, they also intend to mentor and share their knowledge with less experienced members of the Catering Squadron.

AS2 Gideon Metcalfe Promotion to AS1 (Logs Chef) TG19

AS1 Metcalfe, originally from Harpenden in Hertfordshire, began his Royal Air Force (RAF) journey on 6 January 2025 when he commenced basic training RTS (Halton). A former student of St George’s School, where he completed his GCSEs and A-levels, Metcalfe demonstrated a strong work ethic from an early age. While in school, he worked in a local pub kitchen, progressing from Kitchen Porter (KP) to Chef de Partie, which laid the foundation for his passion for catering.

After completing his training at (CTW) Worthy Down, Metcalfe passed out on 1 August 2025, earning the prestigious Best

Trainee Award. Since then, he has excelled in his role, contributing to numerous high-profile functions, including the Annual RAF Police Symposium Dinner, the Warrant Officers and Senior Ranks Mess (WOSM) Christmas Draw, and the RAF Regiment Corps Conference. His dedication and professionalism have been consistently recognised by his peers and CoC.

Metcalfe has also actively participated in ceremonial duties, including the Battle of Britain Parade and the Bury St Edmunds Remembrance Parade, showcasing his commitment to upholding RAF traditions. His time at RAF Honington, where he supported the Global High Threat course and

Further Training Courses, (FT),1,2,3, highlighted his adaptability and enthusiasm for varied operational tasks within the Service.

In addition to his operational duties, Metcalfe successfully completed his Trade Ability Tests (TAT) Parts A and B on time, demonstrating his technical competence and commitment to professional development. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, and he was presented with his promotion to AS1 by Officer Commanding Facilities Management Sqn (OC FMS), Squadron Leader Henry Else. Outside of work, Metcalfe is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys running, going to the gym, and working on his classic

car. Looking ahead, Metcalfe is eager to expand his experience by deploying on exercises and operations with 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS), particularly to enhance and gain more experience in field deployed conditions.

AS1 Metcalfe’s journey in the RAF so far has been marked by hard work, dedication, and a passion for his trade. His promotion is a testament to his achievements and potential for continued success in his RAF career and an ambassador for TG19.

A/WO Sinclair

RAF Honington Catering Flight

Championing Sustainability: AS1

Callum Dixon Leads the Way on Stop Food Waste Day at JRM Honington

At JRM Honington, Stop Food Waste Day was marked with enthusiasm and innovation, thanks to the outstanding efforts of AS1 Callum Dixon. Demonstrating both creativity and commitment, Callum took the lead in raising awareness about the importance of reducing food waste, a cause that resonates deeply within the RAF community and beyond.

In preparation for the event, Callum developed a range of engaging materials, including recipe handouts and informative posters, designed to educate and inspire. His carefully crafted tasters for Service Personnel (SPs) proved a hit, showcasing how leftover ingredients can be transformed into delicious, nutritious meals.

Throughout the day, Callum actively engaged with customers, sharing practical tips and encouraging everyone to rethink their approach to food waste. His message was clear: small changes in how we use and store food can make a significant difference in reducing what ends up in the bin.

The culinary highlights of the day included an inventive menu featuring banana bread, banana skin biscuits, root vegetable crisps, and a vibrant vegetable Thai curry served with cauliflower rice. Each dish was a testament to Callum’s skill in turning potential waste into tasty, appealing options.

AS1 Dixon’s dedication not only helped to promote sustainability within the RAF but also inspired others to adopt more mindful habits in their daily lives. His work on Stop Food Waste Day is a shining example of how passion and professionalism can combine to make a positive impact.

Deployed Chefs and Ceremonial Duties: Catering Flight Making an Impact from the Falklands to Cyprus

The Catering Flight continues to demonstrate its versatility and dedication with several personnel (SPs) currently deployed across key locations.

In the Falkland Islands, AS1 Will Green and AS1 Cameron Moore are on a four-month operational overseas assignment (OOA). AS1 Green is on his second tour, while AS1 Moore is experiencing his first. Together, they are feeding over 700 SPs daily—a significant increase from their usual numbers. This challenge has allowed them to showcase their culinary creativity, supported by the Daily Messing Allowance, while also finding time to explore the stunning islands during downtime.

Meanwhile, in Cyprus, AS1 Emily Jones and AS1 Callum Dixon are supporting deployed troops from a field kitchen. Both have expressed great enjoyment in cooking under field conditions and take pride in serving happy troops at the servery. Initially responsible for feeding 1,500 SP three meals a day, their workload has now adjusted to supporting over 650 personnel.

Back on home soil, AS1 Rebecca Stripe, Air Ground Steward (AGS), recently attended the Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving at St Clement Danes (SCD), the Central Church of the RAF, commemorating the formation of the Royal Air Force. Looking ahead, Stripe has been selected to support the prestigious Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo later this year on 26 August, highlighting her continued commitment to ceremonial duties.

From operational kitchens to ceremonial events, the Catering Flight’s personnel are proving their adaptability and professionalism across the globe.

Precision and Passion: Cpl Anuj Gurung Leads RAF Culinary Arts Team to Global Success

At the heart of RAF Honington’s Catering Flight is Team Captain Corporal Anuj Gurung, a standout member of the Royal Air Force Culinary Arts Team and the Combined Services Culinary Arts Team. Specialising in cold skills through the Culinary Advanced Training programme, Cpl Gurung excels in the art of cold display tables, mastering intricate platters, buffet artistry, cold sauces, garnishes, and salads.

This demanding discipline requires exceptional precision, with the team working within very tight margins for error. To maintain their high standards, they regularly hone their craft through intensive workshops at the Catering Training Wing (CTW) Worthy Down, where practice and perfection go hand in hand.

The team’s dedication has propelled them onto the world stage, competing in prestigious events

such as the Culinary Olympics Cold Display Table competition. Highlighting his individual talent, Cpl Gurung recently secured a Gold medal in the Sustainable Fish Class at the Scothot Scottish National Championship, underscoring his commitment to both culinary excellence and sustainability. Cpl Gurung and his team continue to set the bar high, representing the RAF with skill, creativity, and professionalism in every competition they enter.

A Hidden Gem at the Heart of RAF Heritage ST CLEMENT DANES:

On the 14 May 26 a number of serving personnel and civil servants from the RAF Regiment Force Headquarters embarked on taking a little time out of the office to visit several Battle of Britain memorials in London and whilst the subsequent Battle of Britain ‘walk’ took place, the starting point for the day’s event was certainly a highlight and my first visit to St Clement Danes the Central Church of the Royal Air Force. Please read on for a brief history of this magnificent, yet somewhat ‘hidden in the heart of London’ Royal Air Force ‘gem’ in the crown!

St Clement Danes Church, located on the Strand in central London, has a history stretching back over a millennium and holds a unique and enduring association with the Royal Air Force (RAF). Its origins are believed to date to the 9th century, when Danish settlers, who had established a community in the area, constructed a place of worship. This early connection gave rise to its name, “St Clement Danes,” linking both the patron saint of seafarers, St Clement, and the Danish presence in the city.

The medieval church underwent several rebuilds and modifications, reflecting London’s growth and changing architectural styles. By the 17th century it had fallen into disrepair and was largely rebuilt between 1680 and 1682 by the renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren, following the Great Fire of London. Wren’s design introduced a classical Baroque structure, notable for its tower and elegant proportions, which became a familiar feature along the Strand.

The church suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. In May 1941, during the Blitz, incendiary bombs caused a

devastating fire, leaving only the outer walls and tower standing. For many years, the church remained a ruin, a stark reminder of wartime destruction in the heart of the capital.

Its modern significance emerged in the post-war period when it was chosen to serve as the Central Church of the Royal Air Force. This decision was both symbolic and practical: the RAF, having played a pivotal role in defending Britain during the war, sought a spiritual home to commemorate its service

and sacrifice. Restoration began in the 1950s, funded in large part by donations from RAF personnel worldwide. The rebuilt church was formally consecrated in 1958.

Today, St Clement Danes serves as a living memorial to the RAF. The church interior reflects this association through numerous tributes, including Books of Remembrance, squadron badges displayed in stained glass windows, and memorials dedicated to those who have served and fallen. The church is also the site of significant

RAF ceremonial events, including remembrance services and acts of commemoration, reinforcing its role as a focal point for RAF heritage and identity.

In addition to its military significance, the church remains an active place of worship and a prominent historic landmark in London. Its dual identity—as both a parish church and the spiritual centre of the RAF—ensures that it continues to honour the past while serving present and future generations of service personnel and civilians alike.

Our visit was made all the more special by being guided around the church by Wg Cdr Rt’d Di Bently now the current Church Warden. It was fascinating to see the church and whilst externally shrouded in scaffolding due to on-going restoration maintenance it did not deter from the internal dignified splendour that welcomes you on entering.

Special mentions and thanks to Cpl Squibb as OIC for the event and Flt Lt Woodley-Jones, FS Quinlan for outstanding stands and the impromptu impressions of Sir Winston Churchill with renowned Romeo y Julieta Cuban cigar!

1 Squadron RAF Regiment

1 Sqn RAF Regt continues to demonstrate operational excellence, resilience, innovation and adaptability. The Sqn has sustained a high operational tempo while simultaneously investing in the development of its people and future capabilities, ensuring it remains ready to meet emerging challenges at home and overseas.

OPERATIONS

The Sqn completed a highly successful six-month tour in Cyprus, delivering robust Force Protection (FP) to UK assets in a complex and demanding security environment. Operating at pace, the Sqn faced a direct UAS attack on the camp. Through rapid threat detection, decisive engagement and effective command and control, personnel carried out Post Attack Recovery and professionally managed the immediate aftermath, minimising disruption while maintaining full operational capability. This incident highlighted the Sqn’s high standards of readiness and reinforced the vital role of RAF Regiment FP in contested airspace.

In addition to the Cyprus tour, the Sqn continued to support wider Defence outputs by deploying personnel to the Middle East as part of the Air Mobility Protection Team (AMPT). These teams provided specialist FP to air assets in a high-threat environment, delivering assured security and enabling continued air operations.

Following the successful conclusion of the Cyprus tour, all personnel returned to the UK and took welldeserved leave after an intense and demanding operational period.

TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Refreshed and re-energised from leave, the Sqn swiftly recommenced an intensive training

programme to prepare for its assumption of Very High Readiness (VHR) commitments this summer. Focused serials across all ranks have sharpened tactical proficiency, enhanced interoperability with joint partners and ensured the Sqn is at peak readiness to deploy

at short notice in support of contingency operations.

EXPERIMENTATION AND INNOVATION

1 Sqn remains at the forefront of capability development through its continued leadership in Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP). Building on earlier progress, the Sqn has delivered extensive training on a range of ACP systems, significantly increasing operator proficiency and tactical understanding. This investment in emerging

technology strengthens the Sqn’s ability to deliver innovative FP solutions in future operational environments and contributes directly to Defence’s broader understanding of autonomous systems.

The Sqn’s sustained performance across operations, training and innovation underscores its reputation as a highly capable and forward-looking unit ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.

ARKISH SURRISH

2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regt

EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT (EE) EVENT – BUSINESS BREAKFAST AT RAF HONINGTON HERITAGE CENTRE

On 25 March 2026, the East Anglia Regional Employer Engagement Board (EA REEB), together with the Reserve Squadrons based at RAF Honington, hosted a Business Breakfast event at the RAF Honington Heritage Centre.

This informal networking breakfast offers local businesses a valuable opportunity to connect with representatives from the UK Armed Forces Reserve units. Attendees will learn about the benefits of Reserve Service and the wide range of transferable skills reservists bring to their civilian workplaces.

The event aimed to deepen employers’ understanding of the Armed Forces and encourage their support for Defence initiatives. It also seeks to foster partnerships through schemes such as the Armed Forces Covenant and the Employer Recognition Scheme.

The event was sponsored by Station Commander Wing Commander Hinde and organised by WO Millichamp. Guests were welcomed and

accompanied by the RAF Reserves Employer Engagement Team and station personnel.

Local businesses interested in attending were encouraged to take advantage of this unique chance to engage with the Armed Forces community and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

During the event, the Commandant General Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Lincoln, alongside AIRReserves-RAuxAF-Cmd WO Jason Griffiths, presented several honours and awards. Recipients included WO Millichamp, who received the Warrant Officer Parchment; Flight Sergeants Brookes and O’Brien; and Corporal King, all awarded the Wider Service Medal.

Orwell Park School: A Natural Home for Military Families

Orwell Park’s connection to the Armed Forces runs deep. During the Second World War, the School was home to the Desert Rats, who prepared their landing craft on site ahead of D Day. Today, that heritage lives on in a community that warmly welcomes the children of service personnel and understands the unique pressures faced by military families. Many pupils have Forces backgrounds, and the School’s pastoral approach is shaped by decades of experience supporting children through deployments, relocations and change.

Financially, Orwell Park offers a highly competitive package for service families. With CEA plus 10%, supported by the School’s own military fee remission, an exceptional boarding education becomes far more accessible than many expect.

At its heart, Orwell Park is a traditional boarding school, offering flexible, weekly and full boarding from Year 3. Its boarding community is vibrant, nurturing and truly 7 days a week, with strong weekend numbers enabling a rich programme of Sunday trips and activities led by resident staff. For military families seeking stability and a home from home environment, this model provides reassurance, structure and continuity.

Set within 110 acres overlooking the River Orwell, the School’s grounds offer space, adventure and a magical childhood setting. Academic standards are high, and the School’s strong family ethos ensures every child is known, supported and encouraged to thrive.

The School continues to evolve while staying true to its traditions. The new OrWellbeing Hub places emotional resilience and pupil wellbeing at the centre of school life, supporting children through the challenges of growing up — and the additional pressures that can come with military life. This September will also see the arrival of new Head, Alex McCullough, whose leadership brings fresh energy and ambition to this historic school.

Located just five minutes from A14 Junction 57 in Nacton, Ipswich (IP10 0ER) and only 1.5 hours from London airports, the school is ideally positioned for families navigating the demands of service life, mobility and international postings.

For admissions enquiries, contact admissions@orwellpark.org Visit our website at orwellpark.co.uk

2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regt

TRAINING WEEKEND

Over the weekend of 21–22 March 2026, members of 2623 Squadron completed their mandatory individual Readiness Training (MOD 1) and Station Security Force (SSF) training at RAF Honington, ensuring they are fully prepared for future operations.

Prior to the weekend, personnel completed essential online prelearning covering Rifle, General Service Pistol, Law of Armed Conflict, CBRN, First Aid, Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), Air Awareness, and SERE

A. This was followed by practical sessions and assessments, including Weapon Handling Tests (WHTs), CBRN respirator testing facility, First Aid, and Station Guard Force

training package. This preparation is vital to maintaining the safety and effectiveness of air operations, whether deployed overseas or operating from home bases.

RAF Regular and Reserve personnel play a vital role in delivering operational Air and Space Power. Whether deployed overseas or operating from home bases, they are essential to Force Protection (FP) efforts that

safeguard air capabilities.

In addition to the operational importance of these training weekends, they also provide significant benefits to the welfare, morale, and enjoyment of reservists. Attending training weekends offers reservists the opportunity to build strong camaraderie and team spirit, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose within the squadron. The structured yet varied training environment allows personnel to develop new skills and maintain operational readiness in a supportive setting.

Moreover, the social aspects of these weekends, including informal gatherings and shared experiences, contribute positively to mental wellbeing and motivation. Being part of the RAuxAF Regiment enables reservists to balance civilian life with meaningful military service, enhancing personal fulfilment and pride. These factors collectively help sustain high morale and encourage continued commitment to the Reserve Force.

RAF Regiment Reserve Training: Phase 2 and Phase 3 Progression Ex OMEGA and FT1-3

Date 7-21 Mar 26

The RAF Regiment Reserve training pathway is structured to develop reservists from basic skills through to advanced leadership

and specialist capabilities. 2623 Sqn administrated/organised this training with support and assistance from other RAuxAF Regiment instructors. The above courses are available to PTVR (Part time voluntary reservists) across all RAuxAF Regiment Squadrons.

Reserve

Phase

2 Training –Exercise OMEGA

Phase 2 training for RAF Regiment Reservists is designed to build on the foundational skills acquired during Phase 1 (basic recruit training). Exercise OMEGA is the principal Phase 2 course, focusing on fieldcraft, weapons handling, tactical drills, and unit-level operations. This exercise provides reservists with practical experience in a realistic training environment, enhancing their operational readiness and integration with regular RAF Regiment units.

Exercise OMEGA typically includes advanced infantry tactics and patrolling, blank firing and weapons proficiency, field survival and navigation, Fire team and sectionlevel exercises, as well as physical fitness and endurance challenges. Upon successful completion of Exercise OMEGA, reservists are awarded their RAF Regiment mudguards and are eligible to advance to Phase 3 training. This progression allows them to mobilise for operational deployments and pursue further specialist or leadership training. Congratulations to 2623 Squadron’s AS2s Thadani, Ives and Borley who successfully completed Ex OMEGA.

Reserve - Phase 3 Further Training and Promotion Courses (FT1, FT2, FT3)

Phase 3 training comprises three progressive courses to develop

leadership and specialist skills for promotion. FT1 targets AS1s, focusing on junior leadership, tactical decision-making, and weapons handling. FT2 builds on this for LCpls aiming to become corporals, enhancing planning, administration, and section command skills. FT3 prepares corporals for promotion with advanced training in tactics, personnel management, and operational planning to lead flights effectively.

Beyond technical skills, these courses foster camaraderie, resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging within the RAF Regiment. Reservists also gain improved discipline, fitness, and communication, supporting both military effectiveness and personal growth. Congratulations

to Cpl Liggett, LCpl Polley, and AS1 Mitchell of 2623 Squadron on successfully completing their promotion courses, a testament to their dedication and commitment.

2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment Training Weekend 18 – 19 April 2026

On 18–19 April 2026, 2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment gunners and Phase 2 students took part in their annual fitness tests and Rifle Close Quarter Marksmanship (CQM) shoots. This training is essential to keep skills sharp, maintain readiness, and strengthen team spirit.

Day 1:

The day focused on the RAF Regiment Reserve Annual Fitness Test (RAFT), a tough, role-specific

challenge to ensure gunners meet the physical standards needed for deployment. The test includes a 4 km march carrying 32 kg in under 60 minutes, a 2 km march with 20 kg in 18 minutes, a 120 m tactical movement drill in under 4 minutes, dragging a 110 kg dummy 20 m in 45 seconds, carrying two 22 kg jerry cans over 160 m in just over 3 minutes, and the REEF test involving running and crawling in full combat gear. These stages test endurance, strength, agility, and the ability to perform under pressure.

Day 2:

The focus shifted to core infantry skills. The day started with updated GSP Glock drills to maintain weapon handling safety, accuracy, and speed. Next were Weapon

2623 Sqn

Handling Tests (WHTs) for grenades and smoke grenades, vital for safe and effective use in operations. The remainder of the day was spent on Rifle CQM training at RAF Honington’s 25-metre range, practising rapid target engagement, weapon handling, and movement in closequarter combat scenarios.

This training improves accuracy, reaction time, and teamwork, all crucial for operational success. Honorary Air Commodore, Sir Charles Bowman of 2623 Squadron, visited during this training weekend to catch up with squadron personnel and to present RAF Regiment mudguards to AS2 Thadani and Borley. Congratulations to them on passing Ex OMEGA.

WO Paul Millichamp 2623 XO Sqn

If you know anyone interested in joining the RAF Regiment Reserves, now is a great time to get involved. Serving as a reservist offers the chance to develop valuable skills, stay fit, and be part of a dedicated team supporting UK defence.

For more information or to refer someone, visit RAF Reserve recruitment website https:// recruitment.raf.mod.uk/. Joining the RAuxAF Regiment is a rewarding way to serve alongside regular personnel while balancing civilian life.

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