Honington Herald

RAF REGIMENT ON PARADE AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

The Magazine of RAF Honington

Honington Herald SPRING 2022

Honington 85

Open Mornings Saturday Saturday 7th May 11th June

www.obh.co.uk Brettenham Park

Brettenham

Ipswich

Suffolk

IP7 7PH

People who serve in the RAF are trained to be self-reliant.

All too often, when life gets tough, they suffer in silence.

Our Listening and Counselling Service provides confidential support.

We also offer online mindfulness training through free Headspace memberships.

If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or low self-esteem, we’re here to help.

Find out more: rafbf.org CALL 0300 102 1919 The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109).

SCAN ME WITH YOUR CAMERA

Contents Spring 2022

Ex-Station Warrant Officer's Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Padre’s Peace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Faewell Mac. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 This is me - Fg Off Nat Marsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Catering News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Support Wing Force Development Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 LGBT+ History Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

6 Editorial Team Editors:

Sqn Ldr Mark Fixter Ext 7176

Honington and Sapiston Parish Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Jacob the Pilot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

7

Unit Updates

Image Editor:

1 Sqn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

RAF Honington Station Photographic Team Ext 7318

The Honington Herald is published by kind permission of the Station Commander, Royal Air Force Honington, Group Captain Piers ‘Dutch’ Holland MBE MA RAF.

Infrastructure Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Force Protection Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Stn MCO Victoria Quamina Ext 7577

Media and Engagement Office Ext 7577/7176 Email: hon-heraldgmb@mod.gov.uk

Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Training Wing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

and

Distribution:

RAF Regiment 80th Anniversary Parade at Buckingham

2623 Sqn RAuxAF Regt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

13

20

Submission Deadline for Articles Summer 29/04/2022 All articles to be submitted to: HON-HeraldGMB@mod.gov.uk

Designer: Jo Glen Advertising: Jayne Bailey Tel: 01536 334219 Published by: Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 334222

Do you have a question for the Station Commander?

Then ‘Ask Dutch!’

Find the link on the RAF Honington homepage on Sharepoint, or scan the QR Code on station posters to access from your mobile phone.

@StnCdrHonington

This magazine contains official information and should be treated with discretion by the recipent and the views expressed in this magazine, unless specifically stated otherwise, do not reflect MOD, RAF or Station policy and are the personal views of the author. No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine can be accepted by the publishers or printers. Advertisements are included in good faith.

4 HONINGTON HERALD 4 HONINGTON HERALD

Ex-Station Warrant Officer’s Foreword Warrant Officer Mac Macdonald

PADRE’S PEACE

I

do love this time of the year: the sun rising earlier and earlier each morning and setting just that bit later each day (a promise of longer brighter days to come).

I

t is a great privilege for me to introduce this edition of the Honington Herald. As my 39 years of regular service comes to an end (the last 3 of those years as the SWO) I am in something of a reflective mood.

What has changed since 1983? Well numbers definitely! There were over 100,000 personnel in the RAF then, compared to our 30,000 now and we are busy supporting operations however small, rather than endless exercises in preparation for a foe whom we never actually faced. It is far too easy to look back on how things were with rose tinted glasses, however, change is a necessary part of our development.

On the positive side we no longer have to wear no 1 uniform when arriving on a Station or for AOCs inspection and the last of the tin helmets and putties disappeared at the end of the 1980s. The Thursday night NAAFI Bop is a distant and happy memory but thankfully pay parades for a low wage have never returned!

What has not changed is the people, who are as professional, and committed as ever and I have witnessed that on many occasions here at RAF Honington. I have to say thank you to all those people (uniformed, civil service, veterans and civilians) who in one way or another have supported me and made me look good, I hope you can do the same for whoever replaces me.

During my career I have been fortunate enough to meet wartime veterans with whom there was an immediate RAF bond, I hope that continues when I meet our future personnel who may not have even joined yet!

In summary, would I do it all again? You bet I would; I wish you all the same unforgettable service, enjoy the ride and make the most of it while you can.

Pro Anglia Valens & Per Ardua Mac Station Warrant Officer

‘See page 6 for Mac’s Farewell’.

Honington Herald is now available online:

I find maintaining a positive mindset tough during the dark winter months; getting up and getting home in the dark makes me feel generally urgh and lethargic I’m afraid. I have to work hard on my mental well-being during these months.

Singing in the car, trying to get my steps in each day, planning fun days with the family (as the motivation for spontaneity is seriously lacking), and just giving myself some pep talks along the way.

And then…phew! The sun shines a bit brighter and my commute to and from work is not in the dark for so long. I see bulbs beginning to flower on the sides of the road, and the tress outside my office dare to show some green as small shoots of leave suggest they may be growing again.

There is something so reassuring about the seasons. Last year I had 3 winters (the joys of a Falklands deployment!) and I really felt it – I left the UK after a gloriously sunny week in quarantine and landed at Mount Pleasant Complex on a dark and drizzly June (mid-winter) day. I’d gone from late evenings enjoying the last remnants of early summer sun, to short cold, dark days again. And of course, as I left Falklands Islands, I arrived

back to the UK in the middle of November, where it was short, cold dark days again!

But amid all that, I tried so hard to look for the brightness of each day…the silver-linings, I guess.

Penguins in their natural (smelly) habitat. Tress literally growing over to one side without branches on the exposed side. Skies full of stars – absolutely full to the brim! Seas and beaches so clean and clear and beautiful. An opportunity to visit an archipelago so far away from home that if you go any further, you’re almost coming back on yourself!

And the coming home in winter…

I got to spend time on PODL with my family, caught up with friends, slept (!), and reflected on my first deployment.

I urge you to find the silverlinings in life too. The things that brighten your day. That bless you.

Sometimes we must search really hard for them, they aren’t obvious. But when we notice them, wowsers – the world looks just that little bit brighter and more bearable.

If you’re struggling to find the silver-linings, or you would like to have a chat, remember Padre, SSAFA and other support networks are all here to help – don’t struggle alone.

http://honingtonherald.co.uk/ HONINGTON HERALD 5

Mac’s Farewell RAF Honington said a very sad farewell to the Station Warrant Officer on Monday 21 February.

Warrant Officer Mac Macdonald lowered the Royal Air Force Ensign on Station for the last time as he retires following 39 years of exemplary Service. The Station Warrant Officer is the Station Commander’s righthand man and Mac has exceptionally fulfilled this role for the last 3 years. Station Commander Group Captain Dutch Holland said: “Today we say farewell to a giant of the RAF and RAF Regiment; WO Mac MacDonald leaves us after 39 years of stellar and selfless Service and has been each and every day the epitome of the career professional and the bastion of standards and professionalism. He will be missed by everyone and we wish him well for the next chapter of his life. Per ardua – through adversity.”

The grey clouds parted to blue sky and the sun made an appearance especially for the occasion as the Honington Voluntary Band played ‘The Great Escape’ and Station personnel lined the streets to wave him off as Mac was driven to the Main Gate in a Foxhound.

of projects including Spring Cleans and not forgetting his well-known ‘Womble’ Litter Pick with wife Sue.

Belize 1984

As far as his career goes it didn’t start smoothly for Mac. Having joined the RAF in 1983 as an RAF Regiment Gunner he was re-mustered after 4 years due to an eye injury. He retrained as a Chef and served Mac said: “Believe it or not 39 years 6 years in the trade before goes by in a flash! There are highs finding that his eyesight had and lows to any job but I have loved improved enough to allow it, every minute and would do it all a re-trade back to Gunner; again in a heartbeat.” although this meant completing another Basic Gunner course at He added: “The camaraderie and RAF Catterick! Life as a Chef came esprit de corps is something we are with the opportunity to meet an very privileged to have in the RAF Regiment and I hope to continue that RAF Stewardess whom he married in the Falkland Islands in 1989; the theme with the veteran community and the wider regiment family in the first forces couple to do so. They had a civil ceremony in the bar future.” of the Upland Goose Hotel and everything was borrowed from Mac is exceptionally highly suit to rings. His diverse career regarded within our local includes ceremonial duties on The communities and in particular our freedom towns of Bury St. Edmunds Queen’s Colour Squadron; a tour and Thetford where he has donated many extra hours, days and probably months of his personal time not just to ensure that events run smoothly, but also to support the communities with all sorts

Above: Berlin 1988

Right: Afghanistan 2011 6 HONINGTON HERALD

in Northern Ireland, Stabilisation work in Nad-e-Ali province with the Gurkhas, Liaison Officer at the Queen Elizabeth hospital and a myriad of training roles. Mac will be known most recently at Honington for his roles on 2623 Sqn RAuxAF Regt, 1 Sqn RAF Regt, Recruit Training Squadron (Basics) and the Armoured Vehicle (Wheeled) Training Team.

Mac said: “Achieving a final tour as the Station Warrant Officer at RAF Honington has been the icing on the cake and I wish everyone the very best in the Station’s 85th and of course the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year.

Per Ardua & Pro Anglia Valens.”

THIS IS ME!

Introducing the new Officer Commanding General Duties Flight, Flying Officer Nat Marsh...

My time in the RAF so far has seen me compete in a variety of sport; I have become a World (Drug Free) Champion in Powerlifting, claiming multiple records on the British, European and World stages. I have also ranked in Britain for the sports of Weightlifting and well as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. These are memories which I shall hold in the highest regard and will stay with me forever … but I’m not finished yet.

I began competing in strength sports with Powerlifting early in training as a Logistics Mover and during my World Championship performance in Malta, I earned two gold medals for Team GB and best overall lifter in the Back Squat. These performances aided the decision to bestow upon me the RAF Sports Woman of the Year 2018. The trophy was and is still one of the most appealing that I own, I’m quite proud of that one.

Whilst competing in Powerlifting, I began participating in CrossFit, where I inevitably began to compete also, and I won all the regional events in the RAF that I participated in.

A fundamental part of CrossFit is Weightlifting, and I was asked by members of the RAF Weightlifting team to participate in the first

UKAF Weightlifting Championship, to increase female participation.

In this competition I trained hard for six months and came 2nd overall. This performance earned me an invitation to the civilian circuit and the English Grand Prix in Weightlifting, an opportunity not presented to any other female RAF lifters.

I participated and won my category, earning me a position at the Great Britain Weightlifting Championships, where I came 4th overall. During the COVID lockdown in 2021 I participated in the Virtual British Championships, earning 3rd place.

My weightlifting journey so far has been that of a whirlwind, but I’m very dedicated to my sport and physical improvement and this has helped me achieve what I have so far.

Due to my success in the sport whilst working shifts in Logistics, the dedication was recognised and was part of the decision-making process influencing policy change

Images courtesy of FO Marsh

at a 3* level that will benefit all future sporting personnel in the RAF. This change in policy enhanced the recognition of Weightlifting within the RAF. Toward the end of 2021 I took a further interest in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I joined a local club and participated in every class possible. With a little over two months of training, I decided to enter the Jiu Jitsu British Open as a white belt (no stripes) and took second place against a

tough bunch of women with many years’ experience; this was the highlight of my sporting career to date and an avenue I will continue to pursue.

I’ve come to realise that training and competing in multiple sport, enhances my ability in all. There are multiple factors that come into the reasoning behind this but you can rest assured I will continue and I don’t believe this is yet my final form.

Kitchener’s is a unique Suffolk charity offering guest house style accommodation overlooking the sea in South Lowestoft, to British and Commonwealth veteran and serving armed forces, merchant sea personnel, blue light services, and their families. Holidays and short breaks are available on either a bed & breakfast or half-board basis.

Holidays for Veterans of the Armed Forces, Merchant Seamen and members of the Emergency Services

Open from 1st Feb to 30th November

01502 573564

Kitchener’s is centrally located between Great Yarmouth and Southwold with easy access transport links and a host of places to visit and things to do for both adults and children alike.

You will find a warm welcome from the resident Manager, Ash, who served in the armed forces, and his wife Caroline.

Amongst both regular and new guests, Kitchener’s has a solid reputation as being a place to relax and unwind amongst likeminded people; there’s nothing like the camaraderie and humour of those who have served our country, no matter in what capacity.

With regular guests such as Royal Chelsea Pensioners and Normandy D-Day Vets, there are often stories to be heard from conflicts past. They too, love to speak with the younger veterans and serving personnel to hear about what is going on now and how things have changed. It is not uncommon to find a group gathered in the bar exchanging stories.

enquiries@kitchenerslowestoft.co.uk www.kitchenerslowestoft.co.uk

If being outdoors is more your thing, you will find plenty to do in the local area. As Kitchener’s is located on the seafront of the East coast, there’s plenty of opportunity for watersport activities.

Alternatively, a short distance away, you can hire a boat for a day trip on the Norfolk Broads.

Registered Charity Number 230090

A stay at Kitchener’s is offered at a substantially discounted price for our veterans and serving armed forces and their families which is subsidised by grants and charitable donations. This allows us to offer a warm, friendly ‘home from home’ stay at an affordable price.

HONINGTON HERALD 7

CATERING NEWS

Nando’s Style Theme Night On Wed 26 Feb RAF Honington Catering Flt personnel provided a Nando’s style theme night for the Phase 2 Trainee Gunners (TGs).

With her recent detachment to BFSAI, SAC Shauna Jones is fully aware of the capabilities chefs have to offer and that variations of menus impact the dining experience of the customer. She approached her Line Management and the ESS Catering Manager and investigated the possibility of holding a theme night specifically for the TG’s, with the aim of providing a little bit of pay back and to enhance their lived experience within the Junior Ranks Mess (JRM).

This task was made all the more difficult as Shauna was set the parameters that the menu cost had to fit within the financial parameters of the Daily Messing Rate evening meal rate and compliance with the core meal charter.

The event however was a huge success with an excellent choice of dishes available and 107 TGs experienced a little piece of the past and how catering delivery can

be achieved. The TGs had nothing but high praise for the team’s efforts with numerous positive inserts placed into the comments book, extracts are below.

“OMG!!! That food was pucka!

10/10, 5* review”.

“Best food we have had here, and I appreciate the effort”.

“I walked through the Mess doors and oh boy did my eyes light up”.

This was also the last evening meal delivered during the tenure of WO Grimshaw, who completed her last day in uniform.

The team involved in the delivery of the theme night were: SAC Shauna Jones SAC James Kerr SAC Dilli Limbu SAC Tim Sagwe Special thanks go out to the JRM ESS management and chefs for supporting the event.

Photos courtesy of WO Radford.

ROAST LOIN OF LAMB, PEAS, LETTUCE AND BACON Serves 4 Roast lamb accompanied by peas, mint and lettuce, this recipe captures Spring’s sweetness and freshness.

Ingredients • 2 loins of lamb, boned, • weighing 600g/1lb 4oz in total • salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 2 rashers smoked streaky bacon, diced • 1 onion, diced • 500ml/1lb 2fl oz lamb stock • 110g/4oz peas, cooked • 50g/2oz butter • 1 Little Gem lettuce, shredded • 1 sprig mint Method 1. For the lamb, preheat the oven to 160C/325F/Gas 3.

2. Season the lamb well with salt and pepper.

3. Place a heavy-based, oven-proof frying pan over a medium heat. When it is hot, add one tablespoon of the vegetable oil.

4. Put the lamb into the pan and colour it all over, turning it so that all sides brown evenly. Don’t rush this, the dish will have much more flavour and a deeper colour if you take your time.

5. Transfer the lamb, in the frying pan, to the oven, and bake for 8-10 minutes.

6. Remove the lamb from the oven, take it out of the frying pan and set aside to rest for 10-15 minutes.

7. In another frying pan over a medium heat, add the remaining vegetable oil and fry the bacon until crisp and golden-brown.

8. Add the chopped onion and cook for a further two minutes. Then pour over the lamb stock to cover the bacon and onion and bring to the boil.

9. Add the peas, butter, the lettuce and the mint, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for a minute or two until the lettuce is cooked.

10. To serve, slice the lamb, pour the pea, bacon and pesto mixture into a large bowl or individual serving dishes, and arrange the lamb slices on top.

8 HONINGTON HERALD

The Countryman Nature Trail Honington On Wednesday 19th January the Catering Flt went on a guided nature walk around RAF Honington. Our tour guide was Mr Tony Roe who was very knowledgeable about the wildlife and wild plants around camp, you can tell he has a real passion for what he does. We were surprised to see just how much wildlife we have on station.

Tony took us to the right spots to be able to see all the different types of wildlife, Insects and plants whilst using the countryman booklet to identify. With the use of their

new binoculars funded by the RAF Families Federation we were able to spot different types of birds such as a buzzard and a kestrel, whilst also seeing the implementations

that the station have put around to encourage visiting wildlife, such as the kestrel bird boxes on the hangars and the green areas to be left untouched. Tony also has a great knowledge of the history of the camp and surrounding areas which added to the experience.

A great opportunity for us all to have stepped out of the workplace in a relaxed atmosphere, to enjoy

some team bonding after a very challenging year. It was a very enjoyable afternoon and would be fantastic to experience different times of the year to be able to see how things change throughout the seasons. I would also highly recommend for other sections to take advantage of what we have available on our doorstep.

SAC Collette Montier

A fond farewell to WO Angie Grimshaw

W

e bid a fond farewell to WO Angie Grimshaw who leaves the Royal Air Force after 33 years exemplary service. She has been based in numerous locations with much of her career being spent in the VIP world as either a steward or as House Manager, catering for many a starred officer, military dignitary and even members of the Royal Family.

A keen competitor in her youth in classes at Ex JOINT CATERER whereby Angie collected a vast array of medals, later becoming a mentor for future participants and invited to be a ‘Front of House’ judge at both the RAF Culinary Competitions and at Ex JOINT CATERER; which is something that she will continue to do on leaving the Service.

An avid supporter of the Breast Cancer Charity since 2000, Angie has taken part in many ribbon and moon walks and hosted events on Station that has

profiled the good work that the charity does and has raised in excess of £80K. She has received numerous commendations and more recently was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal in the Queens’ Birthday Honours List in 2021.

Thank you WO Grimshaw for all your support during your time at RAF Honington and for all you have done during your time in the RAF. We all wish you the very best for the future.

The Bowler Hat and Umbrella This traditional retirement of our most senior enlisted personnel is a long standing custom in the RAF with the bowler hat and umbrella which signify the transition out of regular service and into civilian life.

HONINGTON HERALD 9

Spt Wg

SUPPORT WING

Force Development Trip Despite the consistently rainy UK weather, Support Wing ventured into Cambridge for a Force Development (FD) Monopoly Day. We divided into three teams on arrival and spent the morning walking around Cambridge trying to find all the places on the monopoly map, even the weirdly named ones as well as trying to meet all the community chests to gain extra points whilst trying not to get certain fines.

At the end of the challenge, we ventured to the RAF bar at the Eagle Pub and had lunch where 3 vignettes were read about The Fleet Air Arm, 323 Bomber Sqn and 24(C) Sqn RAF. We then had a look around the bar with the ‘graffiti’ on the ceiling which dates back to during the war. The surrounding walls have signatures of serving military personnel to date and any current or previously serving military person has the opportunity to sign on their visit. This was an easy to organise ‘off the shelf’ FD trip and a good opportunity to get out of the office and to develop leadership and communication by completing the challenges.

Fancy a Force Development trip of your own? Station personnel can navigate to the Force Development Home Page on Sharepoint and

Cpl Casey Ravenbane – RAF Honington LGBT+ Lead “I believe that no one should ever have to choose between a career we love and living our lives with authenticity and integrity.”

Out & Equal Executive Director - Selisse Berry I have recently been asked why celebrating LGBT+ History Month is important. Their tagline is: ‘Claiming our past. Celebrating our present. Creating our future’ and I could not have put it better myself. For me, this annual event provides an opportunity to build awareness of LGBT+ role models and ground-breaking pioneers that we should be proud of.

organise pre-approved FD days including Battle of Britain Bunker, Bletchley Code Breaker, Churchill War Room, Discover Duxford, Hillside Explorer and Imperial War Museum. If anyone wants to organise bespoke FD events for their areas, they should contact the Learning Centre for more information and support.

I am thankful for all their efforts in landmarks such as (but not restricted to): the recognition of female offenders within the Sexual Offences Act; creating and organising Pride events; the repeal of Section 28 of Local Government Act 1988; creation of Stonewall UK; change of age of consent in line with heterosexual acts as well as landmark changes in the following UK legislation: • • • • • • •

Civil Partnership Act 2004 Gender Recognition Act 2004 Equality Act 2010 Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008 Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act 2013 Armed Forces Act 2016 Bell v Tavistock 2021

As part of our awareness campaign, I would like to highlight Selisse Berry, the founder and CEO of Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, based in San Francisco and Washington, D.C, USA. It is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to LGBT+ employment equality.

Selisse was awarded the Outstanding Hero Congressional Recognition from Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi; the Parks Award in Rome, Italy; the Bonham Center Award in Toronto, Canada and has been awarded with honours from Universities, corporations, media institutions, and legislators around the world. She was also awarded the Legacy Leadership Award from the San Francisco Business Times, now named the Selisse Berry Leadership Award. Selisse is the editor of Out & Equal at Work: From Closet to Corner Office, an anthology of personal stories of executive trailblazers who have transformed the workplace for LGBT+ people.

STANTON PRE-SCHOOL Registered Charity No: 295564

EARLY EDUCATION FOR 2 TO 4 YEAR OLDS

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stantonpreschool2014@gmail.com | www.stantonpreschool.co.uk 01359 251909 | Facebook: Stanton Pre-school

10 HONINGTON HERALD

Honington and Sapiston Parish Council (PC)

P

arish Councils exist to represent the views and concerns of the residents of the parish to the parish council itself and through it to district and county councils. They report back to residents on issues affecting the parish.

Honington and Sapiston PC has 9 unpaid, elected councillors, two of whom are ex Royal Air Force and a paid clerk, who has been trained in the appropriate procedures and regulations. The clerk produces the minutes of the meetings that are held on the second Monday of alternate months.

The meetings are attended by the West Suffolk Councillor (WSC), Suffolk County Councillor (SCC) and a representative from RAF Honington. Parishioners may speak before the meeting commences to raise an issue or to explain correspondence that has been submitted to the PC but may not take part in the formal part of the meeting.

At the beginning of the meeting, parish councillors make a written Declaration of Interest in any item on the agenda for which they or the wife/ partner are involved or have a financial interest and they may not vote on that item of the agenda. All are subject to The Code of Conduct and are

accountable to WSC. An important responsibility of the PC is to set the precept for the parish, as part of the West Suffolk Council Tax. This year it was agreed that a 1% increase was appropriate. For a property in Band C, paying £1679.96, the portion received by the PC is £61.96 pa.

The PC uses the income to support the Village Hall, the equipment on the Playing Field and to purchase Speed Devices.

The latter with contributions from WSC and SSC councillors from their Locality budgets. The PC also employs a person to carry out ground maintenance, including controlling the vegetation at the side of the footpath leading up to Honington Rise.

Because some of the income comes from the MOD housing that lies within the parish, all personnel at RAF Honington are invited to use the Village Hall at the same rate that is charged to villagers.

HONINGTON HERALD 11

RAF LGBT+ Freedom Network – Air-LGBTFreedomNetwork@mod.gov.uk Everybody, RAF BAME Network – RU_AIR-BAMENetwork@mod.uk Every Day. RAF Christian Network – AFNetworks-Christian-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Diversity Allies Network – Air-DiversityAlliesNwk@mod.gov.uk RAF Hindu Network – AFNetworks-Hindu-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Humanists Network – AFNetworks-Humanists-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Buddhist Network – AFNetworks-Buddhist-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Jewish Network – AFNetworks-Jewish-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Muslim Network – AFNetworks-Muslim-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Rastafarian Network – AFNetworks-Rastafarian-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk RAF Sikh Network – AFNetworks-Sikh-0mailbox@mod.gov.uk CANDID (Chronic Conditions and Disabilities in Defence) Network RU_AFNetworks-CANDID-0Mailbox@mod.uk RAF Fijian Network – RU_AFNetworks-Fijian-0mailbox@mod.uk RAF Gender Network – Air-RAF-GenderNetwork@mod.gov.uk DHMN (Defence Mental Health Network) – People-DMHNMailbox@mod.gov.uk

For a full list of RAF Honington’s D&I Advisors and Practitioners Please see the Honington D&I SharePoint page which can be found on the home page.

Produced by Air Media Centre, HQ Air Command. 3348_18TW. UK Ministry of Defence © Crown Copyright, 2020

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JACOB THE PILOT...

W

e had the pleasure of hosting special guest Jacob the Pilot at the home of RAF Force Protection here at RAF Honington on Thursday 24 February 2022.

Station Commander Group Captain Dutch Holland said: “We are delighted to welcome Jacob here to RAF Honington today. At the home of RAF Force Protection, the RAF Regiment and the RAF Police, we value determination, courage and selflessness in the face of adversity above all else, and Jacob demonstrates these qualities every day. We’ll provide him a fun day of new experiences to stretch and challenge this most impressive of young men!”

As he plans his latest fundraising venture for both the RAF Benevolent Fund and St Gemma’s Hospice, Team Honington put Jacob (8) through his paces in preparation for his arduous challenges ahead. Jacob likes an assault course and we thought it was only fair to show him the best one in the Royal Air Force; the RAF

Regiment Assault Course, of course.

Physical Training Instructor Corporal Bovington shouted the orders and kept a watchful eye on Jacob as he shouted ‘Clear!’ after completion

of each obstacle, with a little help from some fellow RAF Regiment Gunners occasionally. In Jacob’s own words he ‘smashed it!’

Jacob also got to sample the Virtual

Reality training as is currently being trialled at both the RAF Regiment Training Wing and Force Protection Centre here at Honington. Lunch was ‘rationed’ as Jacob tried the many delicacies of the ration pack.

He also met a few of the armoured vehicles used by the RAF Regiment including one that was much nearer to his size. To finish the day Jacob got to meet the Paramotor Club as they demonstrated a rather different way of flying in the Royal Air Force.

In May, Jacob will take on his 25km Dunkirk challenge as he continues to raise vital funds for his chosen charities. Lisa Hunt, Regional Fundraiser at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “Jacob has been fundraising on our behalf since 2019 and it’s heart-warming that his passion for all things RAF remains sky-high three years on. Later this year, Jacob will be completing a 25km walk to Dunkirk in aid of the Fund and St Gemma’s Hospice, so it’s wonderful to see the serving community here at RAF Honington sharing his enthusiasm.”

We look forward to seeing Jacob again perhaps when he joins as a new recruit. Only question is, have we changed his mind on which career path to take in the RAF… Pilot? Or Gunner?!

HONINGTON HERALD 13

RED ROOSTER FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES LINE-UP FOR 2022 AND WILL BE LIGHTING THE BEACON TO OPEN CELEBRATIONS FOR THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE ON JUNE 2ND Red Rooster welcomes Seasick Steve as the headliner of Red Rooster 2022 on Friday night. Steve has come a very long way in the 15 years since he burst into the public consciousness with his amazingly raw, powerful and emotional performances on Jools Holland becoming a household name overnight. It is those astonishing and engaging live performances that have turned Steve and drummer Dan Magnusson into such a powerful force both Iive and on record (selling over 1m albums) and selling out venues all over the world in the process. Born and raised in California, Ex UEA student Nick Waterhouse tops the main stage’s Saturday billing, bringing his intoxicating Rhythm and Blues to Euston Hall. His latest album ‘Promenade Blue’ represents rebirth and reinvigoration as well as a clarity of purpose, vivid and magnetic.

Memphis man Sugarray Rayford is a real catch for Red Rooster; his new album ‘In Too Deep,’ the follow up to his 2020 Grammy nominated ‘Somebody Save Me,’ an album which also earned Rayford two major Blues Music Awards for B.B. King Entertainer and Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year (over 2 consecutive years!). Combining classic soul melodies with funky R&B groove. Raw blues power mashed up with contemporary sounds. Joshua Hedley has been on Red Rooster’s wish list since his amazing Third Man album ‘Mr Jukebox’ was release by Jack White’s label in 2018. Joshua has been making a name for himself as Nashville’s righthand guy. Known as the “mayor of lower Broadway” by collaborators and comrades, Hedley is a fixture at Robert’s Western World, where he plays for tips with his band the Hedliners. The multitalented singer-songwriter has played fiddle with Justin Townes Earle, Robert Ellis and Jonny Fritz. Now, Music City’s favourite son is breaking out on his own and he’s heading to Red Rooster.

Another Third Man act are Smoke Fairies, who were the first UK band to release a record on the Nashville based label. Their latest album ‘Darkness Brings the Wonders Home’ reached #1 in the UK Rock chart and went top 10 in the Indie Album charts.

A twice winner of the British Blues Award for Best Acoustic Performer and Best Songwriter, Marcus Bonfanti signs up to Red Rooster, Bristol’s Beth Rowley brings her Americana inspired lullabies, and the very welcome return of slide guitar maestro, Martin Harley, who will blow our minds once again. Danish/Brazilian duo The Courettes make their Red Rooster debut, whilst William The Conqueror return with their fuzzy roots rock n’ chops. He Was In Heaven Before He Died: A Tribute to John Prine, will feature Robert Chaney, The Magic Numbers, Beth Rowley, Felix Holt, Louis Brennan, Josh Flowers, Laura Tenchert, Pat Ralla & Joe Harvey Whyte. After a stellar show at Red Rooster 2021 with their homage to legendary music doc ‘Heartworn Highways’, this unique collective of musicians & songwriters are back once again to pay tribute to one of the most influential songwriters of a generation.

Also newly announced are: Awkward Family Portraits, The Schizophonics, Lady Nade, Alan Tyler & The Tapadoband, PM Warson, Red Hot Riot, Old Baby Mackerel, Chastity Brown, Mudlow, East Lonesome Drifters, The Dashwood String Band, Professor Baba & His Invisible Band, Ags Connolly, Jake Morrell, Sister Suzie, Lucy Grub, The McGuilty Brothers, East Angles Brass Band and Loose Leaf Drifters. With DJ sets from Eddie Pillar, Iraina Mancini, Ross Allen + Rocky, Wendy May, DJ Diddy Wah, Dean Thatcher, Dean Chalkley + Neil Barker, Oh Gunquit, Crispy Cowboy, Hank JD Sleek, Shola Aleje, and Andrew Hackett.

This fantastic line-up will join the previously announced: North Mississippi Allstars, Cedric Burnside, Robert Finley, The Sheepdogs, Chuck Prophet & The Mission Express, Elles Bailey, Danny George Wilson, and Dom Pipkin & The Ikos.

Red Rooster has consistently sold out the last 4 years and expect to sell out quicker in 2022. We’re one of the best value festivals out there at just £109.50 + Booking fee for the whole weekend, which includes 3 nights of camping and parking FREE. Kids under 12 are free as always and we’ve also introduced a teen weekend ticket for just £50 + Booking fee.

Get your ticket before it’s too late – we don’t want you to miss this one! JOIN US HERE To celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee on June 2nd Red Rooster festival is pleased to announce it will be opening these historic celebrations by lighting the beacon in Euston Park on its opening day. Red Rooster will also be joining the Festival of Suffolk, which aims to build a £5m Festival Fund by 2024, administered in partnership with the Suffolk Community Foundation. This fund will support grant funding to charities, community groups and social enterprises in Suffolk who share festival values, and act in one or more of the six core areas: Culture & Tourism, Opportunity & Education, Enterprise, Community, Environments and Health & Wellbeing.

Harry, Duke of Grafton says: “We are all hugely excited to be hosting Red Rooster 2022 over the platinum jubilee bank holiday weekend. Red Rooster 2022 is shaping up to become a hugely memorable weekend with a fantastic music line-up, delicious BBQ from the new Red Roaster zone and a huge array of activities for all the family. The Red Rooster team cannot wait to see you in June.”

HONINGTON HERALD 15

RAF Regiment 80th Anniversary Parade at Buckingham Palace His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Kent watched on as the RAF Regiment conducted a momentous parade at Buckingham Palace to mark their 80th Anniversary.

The RAF Regiment were represented on parade by The Queen’s Colour Squadron of the RAF and ten other Regular and Reserve members of the RAF Regiment who carried their Squadron’s Standard.

vulnerability of airfields to attack by a highly mobile enemy.

The RAF Regiment fought in all the major campaigns of the Second World War with Officers and Gunners being trained to operate as infantry, armoured car crewmen and air defence artillerymen.

All members of the Regiment were initially trained as combat infantrymen, an arrangement that continues to the present day.

The RAF have the honour of conducting ceremonial Public Duties across the London Palaces every year. However, this year they provided both the dismounting and mounting Guards, allowing a Changing of Guard to be comprised entirely of RAF personnel.

The Captain of the Guard was Squadron Leader Brendan Dunne, Officer Commanding The Queen’s Colour Squadron who was given command to execute the anniversary mount.

The RAF Regiment is a specialist corps within the RAF, established

by Royal Warrant in 1942 it was born of the recognition of the necessity for an indigenous and credible RAF ground defence force.

The success of German ‘Blitzkrieg’ tactics during the opening years of the war had signalled the

16 HONINGTON HERALD

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston and Air ViceMarshal Suraya Marshall attended the momentous parade.

‘‘

It was both an honour and a privilege to be present on the Forecourt of Buckingham Palace, to witness the Changing of the Guard on the 80th anniversary of the Royal Air Force Regiment; a duty that the Corps has undertaken, on behalf of the Royal Air Force, since its formation in 1942

’’

Air Vice-Marshal Smeath United States Head of the British Defence Staff

The Corps particularly distinguished itself at Meiktila in Burma, where it had suffered heavy losses repeatedly counter attacking Japanese forces attempting to capture the airstrip; at Monte Casino in Italy, where Squadrons fought alongside Army Units; and during the Normandy landings, when RAF Regiment wings were amongst the first Units to come ashore at the Juno beachhead.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston and the senior serving RAF Regiment Officer, Air Vice-Marshal Mick Smeath were also in attendance.

Air Vice-Marshal Smeath is

‘‘

As Officer Commanding Queen’s Colour Squadron, it is an immense privilege to find both Old and New Guard from within our ranks to mark the RAF Regiment’s 80th anniversary. The personnel of our Squadron work tirelessly to ensure the highest standard of ceremonial output on behalf of the Royal Air Force and for us to be able to conduct Changing the Guard in the presence of His Royal Highness, our Chief of Air Staff and the senior serving RAF Regiment Officer is a proud moment for all of us

’’

Squadron Leader Dunne Officer Commanding Queen’s Colour Squadron currently serving in the United States as the Head of the British Defence Staff there.

After the Second World War the RAF Regiment saw service in Palestine, Aden, Suez, Cyprus, Malaya, Indonesia and Oman and also developed a capacity for internal security and peacekeeping duties. The latter were to prove invaluable when RAF Regiment squadrons deployed to Northern Ireland in 1969.

63 Squadron, who exclusively man The Queen’s Colour Squadron deployed to the Falklands in 1982 to provide air defence for the San Carlos airhead. RAF Regiment Rapier Squadrons continued to provide air defence for RAF assets assigned to the Falklands until 2008.

The RAF Regiments principal purpose is to defend RAF airfields

wherever and whenever necessary, in contemporary conflicts the corps has deployed to the Balkans, Sierra Leone, Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as maintaining Force Protection for RAF assets deployed in the Middle East. Most recently specialist from the RAF Regiment deployed to Operation PITTING, the recovery of 15,000 entitled Afghan personnel from Kabul.

It also prepares and trains all RAF Aviators for the rigours of operations. The parade provided an opportunity for the RAF Regiment to reflect on the achievements, sacrifice and on-going efforts of the RAF Regiment. The Regiment has proven crucial to the RAF’s operational success and continues to evolve to ensure the RAF maintains the advantage over any adversaries.

HONINGTON HERALD 17

INFRASTRUCTURE INPUT RAF Honington Work Services and the Amey Projects team completed the removal of 28 Overground Fuel tanks around station before Christmas.

Whilst personnel may have not even noticed these large and ageing containers, they have been in situ for over 60 years and the project to relieve them of duty has been several years in the making.

The tanks represented a potential

environmental hazard and now DIO & the Works Team are already working on projects to use some of the available space to install Electric Vehicle Charging Points as part of the MOD’s contribution to the UK’s net zero emissions target.

Photos courtesy of Alyn Rourke, unless otherwise stated.

RAF Honington Infrastructure Update Financial Year 2021 to 2022 has seen the following big price tag projects, amongst numerous smaller jobs, delivered on Station: • Decommissioning of below and above ground redundant fuel tanks, thereby removing significant risk from the Station’s Risk Register.

• Replacement of both boilers in the Nursery.

• Removal of asbestos within A, D & E Hangars, and numerous plant rooms across the Station.

• Resurfacing of roads and car park, with associated line marking across large areas of the Station.

This coming FY 22/23 will see: Refurbishment of Barrack Block 71.

• Replacement of the boilers that heat the FP FHQ and close by buildings.

• Replacement of large sections of the Station’s High Voltage Cable network, thereby improving resilience.

• Replacement or modification of Roller Shutter Doors across the Station that are not currently fitted with a safety braking mechanism.

• A covered waiting area for personnel using the 25m Range.

We saw the start of the new infrastructure contract on 1 Feb 22, with VIVO taking over from Amey. To contact the VIVO helpdesk:

Cherry Pickers in the JJ Hangar’ courtesy of Sue MG

18 HONINGTON HERALD

• Tel: 0800 046 6010, then Option 1 for the Central region; or • Email: FM@VivoHelpdesk.com The Works Team of Flt Lt Jo Scott, FS Tracey Bond and Mr Michael Gargett stand ready to help you with your infrastructure queries.

Trg Wg

A

busy winter and early spring has seen RAF Regiment Training Wing deploy all of its training teams and supporting functions.

Exciting and realistic training took place across all courses with assistance from colleagues from across the RAF Regiment the Service and our Allies.

JROC 18

TRAINING WING REGIMENTAL TRAINING SQUADRON (ADVANCED).

RTS(A).

Regimental Training Squadron (Advanced) deployed en-masse to Stanford Training Area, near Thetford, for Ex CENTURIONS FURY and Ex ROVING GHILLIE. Ex CENTURIONS FURY was the culminating event for the Junior Regiment Officers’ Course 126 (JROC 126) and the Further Training (Gunner) 3 (FT3) course. If successful, the officer candidates would graduate as RAF Regiment Officers and the FT3 NonCommissioned Officer (NCO) students would be eligible for promotion to sergeant. Ex ROVING GHILLIE was the final assessment

for the candidates on the 9-week Sniper Course and 7-week Sniper Section Commander Course.

With the full squadron deployed the Tactical Communications Information Systems (TacCIS) flight established a squadron command post to, which was bolstered by signallers from 1 Squadron RAF Regiment. Both exercises converged to deliver a realistic and arduous testing environment for the aspiring RAF Regiment officers, future sergeants, potential snipers and sniper section commanders.

The demanding tempo of the exercises required additional support that was ably provided by members of II, 15 Squadron RAF Regiment and RAF Regiment Training Wing’s own 4001 Flight.

Commander, preparing their Flight for the mission. In the Tactical Sergeant role the assessment encompassed supporting the Flt Cdr and assisting with the planning process and preparing their orders.

During the practical execution phase both students worked together to command their Flight in action against the enemy (ably provided by the Wing’s Training Support Squadron).

Over the 16-days of gruelling exercise the officers’ and NCOs’ planning and leadership were assessed whilst in command and in support of flight (26-personnel) operations in two roles as Flight Commander and Tactical Sergeant.

As a Flight Commander the students tackled the conceptual element of the role; generating a comprehensive plan, delivering options to the Squadron

The exercise was well supported from a multitude of external organisations including; Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) from across Defence, Close Air Support by Hawks from 100 Sqn, RAF - FGR4 (Typhoons) and USAF F-15 (Eagles). The Joint Helicopter

Run in parallel, the Basic Sniper Course and Sniper Commanders Course final exercise assessed sniper students’ ability to provide Close Precision Attack (CPA) and detailed reconnaissance on targets that were subsequently raided by the JROC and FT3 students.

JROC 05 20 HONINGTON HERALD

TG 2-21 Graduating

Command provided Support Helicopters, CH47 (Chinook) and PUMAs, which enabled multiple tactical insertions throughout the exercise. These assets brought he exercise to life with a real feeling operational realism for the students.

As a result of all of this hard work 15 FT3, 18 JROC and 2 Sniper Sect Cdrs graduated their respective courses.

REGIMENTAL TRAINING SQUADRON (BASICS). RTS(B).

Over the winter and early spring all three flights from RTS (B) were in action training the next generation of RAF Regiment Gunners. Salalah Flight, passed their first significant training milestone, completing Live Firing Marksmanship training with all students passing the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test. This was swiftly followed by back-toback exercises. Navigation training tested their ability to find their way by day and night and Exercise Fieldcraft introduced them to fundamental skills required of an RAF Regiment Gunner.

Meanwhile, Meiktila Flight spent most of this period deployed in the field on Module 1 of the course, focusing on basic fieldcraft skills up to and including section level attacks. The challenge of living and patrolling from a flight level harbour proved both testing and rewarding for the trainees; many of whom were experiencing winter field conditions for the very first time. The highlight of this period was undoubtedly the use of two Puma helicopters on Exercise ALPHA that helped add realism to the casualty evacuation and personnel recovery scenarios.

El Alamein Flight, honed their Close Quarter Battle skills in the Complex

JROC dusk

Air Ground Environment (CAGE) training facility. After learning the basics, the week concluded with TGs conducting more advanced techniques for breaching building using mechanical tools and ladders. Once this was complete many were focussed on the coming graduation.

With the Jimmy James Hangar out of action for essential maintenance work and a poor weather forecast making an outside graduation unworkable, Sgt Smyth was tasked to coordinate a Graduation ceremony in the 1 Sqn RAF Regiment Hangar. 16 TGs graduated in front of family, friends and the visiting Reviewing Officer, Col E Loughran (Cdr 742nd Special Operations Group of the United States Air Force). There were also additional VIP guests in the form of HM Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, Lady Clare, Countess of Euston as well as the Deputy Lieutenant of Suffolk, Air Vice-Marshal The Honourable David Murray. Special credit is due to LAC Wamboi who was awarded both the Frank Silvester Trophy and the new Officer Commanding RAF Regiment Training Wing Coin as top recruit for his outstanding efforts over the 20-week course.

RAF Regiment Training Wing 80/100 Celebration and Challenge The aim of the Armoured Car Companies 100th and RAF Regiment’s 80th anniversary celebrations is to Broadcast the historic and contemporary RAF Regt operational commitments and the unique nature of our mission and operational environment. It will showcase our people and camaraderie across the RAF Regiment family whilst supporting both the RAF Benevolent Fund and Centurion Fund, with the ultimate aim, of celebrating and commemorating the anniversaries of the RAF Regiment and the Armoured Car Companies.

As part of the anniversary Sgt Croft (Trg Wg, TAC) volunteered to lead Trg Wg’s celebrations for February by creating a historical media package that will be broadcast across a range of RAF Regiment social media platforms. He has spent numerous hours visiting RAF Regiment Veterans who were present at the formation of the Regt on 1st February 1942. The concept behind the Idea being to give people a first-hand account of what service life was like in the Regiment 80 years ago.

Travelling across the country, he spent time talking to and documenting the memories of former Gunners who were there when it all began. These never-before seen recordings concentrate on four founding Gunners, offering a unique and insightful view into the training, exercises and operations they were involved in and their thoughts on the Regiment, then and now. After collecting the videos, Sgt Croft edited them into short clips to be

released on the RAF Regiment Facebook and Instagram pages (#TrgWg80_100 #RAFBF #CenturionFund #RAFRegiment #RAFRegt) throughout February 2022 with a new video to be released on each working day.

Concurrently, and with the assistance of Sgt King (Trg Wg, RTS-A), a charity 80/100km challenge was set for all members of RAF Regiment Training Wing. Divided into four teams, the Wing will compete to see which team can; run, cycle, row or march 80 kilometres and then 100 kilometres per person first, during the month of February.

All sponsorship and donations raised by this event will be split evenly between the Centurion Fund and the RAF Benevolent Fund. The link to donate (See below) will be in use for the rest of the year for any readers who wish to donate to these worthy causes, any donations will be gratefully received.

Per Ardua.

www.justgiving.com/campaign/rafregiment80 #TrgWg80_100 TG 2-21 Col Loughran Parade Inspection HONINGTON HERALD 21

Now is a wonderful time to visit Fullers Mill, with its rare collection of woodland and Mediterranean plants in full bloom. The garden sits on the banks of the River Lark and Culford Stream with its own millpond and is often described as a beautiful and tranquil oasis.

© Clive Nichols

There is also a pop up shop, plants for sale and refreshments available to enjoy in the garden.

Visit fullersmillgarden.org.uk or call 01284 334 396.

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RAF FORCE PROTECTION CENTRE

January 2022 saw the formation of the fourth and newest pillar of the RAF Force Protection (FP) Centre, the Air FP Collective Training Squadron. The formation of Air FP Collective Training Squadron has realised a long-term ambition to create a dedicated unit that can service all of the FP Force’s collective training requirements, whilst providing continuity for FP Force Defence Engagement activities with our international partners. that they may face whilst deployed.

The Air FP Collective Training Squadron is commanded by Sqn Ldr Jean-Baptiste Borgeais, the FP Force’s French Air Force Exchange The command and control element Officer, and currently comprises of the Command and Control Team will be the culmination of 3 FP that previously sat within the Air FP Wing’s preparation for a planned Development Squadron. deployment that will include a training package designed to develop a deeper understanding of Exercise GLOBAL EAGLE 21 In November 2021 the RAF FP the Air FP planning process.

Centre delivered Exercise GLOBAL Delivered over 10 to 15 days in the EAGLE 21, an operations planning RAF FP Centre’s Synthetic-Complex event including personnel from 5 FP Wg, 51 Sqn RAF Regiment, In Summer 2022, Collective Training Air Ground Environment training the United States Air Force (USAF) Squadron will deliver its first of facility, Exercise AFRICAN SHAURI these training events, supporting will exercise the FP Wing’s ability to 820th Base Defence Group and 3 FP Wing with observers and plan and execute Air FP operations French Air Force Brigade des The formation of the Squadron will provide dedicated support to deliver leading Air FP collective training to the entire FP Force, ranging from the delivery of command and control training to RAF Police Officers undergoing Phase 2 Branch training and RAF Regiment Corporals undertaking Further Training 3, to its main effort of supporting FP Wing training as they prepare to undertake deployment and readiness commitments.

24 HONINGTON HERALD

mentors throughout live field exercises and facilitating their command and control training and mission rehearsal event.

Forces Spéciales Air. The GLOBAL EAGLE annual series is a UK, US and French interoperability pathway, which seeks to enhance learning between Air Force Protection partner forces and develop the ability to successfully operate together. Having seen recent GLOBAL EAGLE events postponed due to the COVID pandemic, this was an excellent opportunity to re-establish relationships ahead of Exercise GLOBAL EAGLE 22 in June 2022, which will see a larger deployment of personnel from all 3 nations for a tactical training exercise.

In addition to the exercise, the

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RAF FP Centre hosted a visit by the Commanding Officer of the USAF 820th Base Defence Group, Colonel Wayand, and the French Air Force Brigade des Forces Spéciales Air liaison officer, Lieutenant Colonel Pibarot.

RAF Regiment Corps Study Day As part of the 80th anniversary of the RAF Regiment, the RAF FP Centre organised and hosted the RAF Regiment Corps Study Day, which was live streamed to maximise the ability for RAF Regiment personnel to attend. The day started with an introduction from Gp Capt Holland, Station Commander RAF Honington, in which he opened up a day of insightful presentations and discussions, many of which explored a variety of issues relevant to the RAF Regiment and the wider FP Force in 2022 and beyond.

Gp Capt Sutton, Gp Capt Air FP, followed by providing the RAF Regiment Strategic Context in light of recent key events such as the UK Government’s Integrated Review in 2021. Following on from Gp Capt Sutton’s updates into the RAF Regiment Strategic Context, Gp Capt Langley and Sqn Ldr Quinney, RAF Regiment Officers serving

within the Cabinet Office, kindly gave their time to provide a Cabinet Office perspective on the current and future challenges that the UK Armed Forces face.

Other notable events during the day involved Flt Lt Fraser, 51 Sqn RAF Regiment, delivering an account on his recent operational experiences in Iraq. This vignette covered advancements in adversary technology and techniques being employed against UK Forces in the Middle East, plus insights into how the RAF Regiment and FP Force might develop to combat these threats.

Finally, Gp Capt (soon to be Air Commodore) Thompson, the incoming FP Force Commander, brought another successful learning event to a close. Great thanks are given to all the personnel within the RAF FP Centre who facilitated the day and to all of those that gave up their precious time to make it the success that it was. We now look forward to the delayed RAF Regiment Corps Formation Dinner in May 22.

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1 Sqn

1 Squadron RAF Regiment

A

fter an exceedingly busy period for 1 Squadron, we celebrated the centenary birthday of the Squadron, when it was originally formed in 1921 as No.1 Armoured Car Company. A comparison photo was taken of the Squadron formed up then and now and it’s interesting to see the similarities and differences of the times. The individual flights also took the opportunity to have separate flight photos taken, a proud moment for all involved. Sadly, the Centenary Dinner was postponed due to the prevalence of the OMICRON variant of CV-19.

There was also an opportunity for 7 members of the Squadron to visit RAF Coningsby for a capability demonstration from 29 Squadron, the RAF’s Typhoon Operational Conversion Unit.

An interesting day was had by the gunners who visited, as they received an interesting and in depth presentation of the aircraft’s capabilities, which included a physical tour of the aircraft, its supporting staff and infrastructure.

After clearly demonstrating a willingness to learn, the gunners who attended came away with increased knowledge of how the Typhoons operate. The gunners prepared their own presentation for the rest of 1 Squadron to pass on the knowledge they had learned.

As Christmas neared, 1 Squadron took part in the annual tradition of a Christmas TAB and send-off prior to Christmas leave. A heavy but quick lap around the airfield including some Christmas songs and carols for those with enough lung capacity, it finished with a Bacon Sandwich in the Squadron Hangar. A perfect way to round off a fast paced and busy year.

Public Order Training On return to work the Squadron were thrown straight back into things with Public Order training!

Important (and fun) training was held by the Squadron’s own Public Order instructors, Cpl Pickett and Cpl Rowbury-Evans and overseen

by Sgt Braint. We were thankful to 34 Squadron and II Squadron for supplying two further instructors to allow the training to take place.

The training started with the basics of shield drill, and then throughout the week, built up to moving down a training lane, consisting of ‘rioters’ (played by the other flights, a job they very much enjoyed!), missiles such as rubber bullets getting thrown and even a petrol bomb getting set off against the front line of shields! This training is vital for generating a contingent Air FP Public Order capability, in order to deal with public disturbances in and around RAF airfields.

Arkish Surrish 26 HONINGTON HERALD

RAF Regiment’s 80th birthday Most recently the Squadron participated in celebrating the RAF Regiment’s 80th birthday, with the Squadron Standard being proudly paraded on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace alongside the other Standards of the regular and reserve Regiment Squadrons and of course The Queen’s Colours of both the RAF and RAF Regiment.

Flt Lt Edward Woodley-Jones was the Squadron Standard Bearer for a career highlight on an all RAF changing of the guard event, where The Queen’s Colour Squadron provided both the old and new guards. A forecourt covered in the blue of the RAF,

and attended by Chief of the Air Staff ACM Sir Mike Wigston, AVM Mick Smeath (DA in Washington and senior serving RAF Regiment Officer) and HRH Duke of Kent.

This event took weeks of prior training, with Flt Lt Woodley-Jones practicing his Standard drill for 2 weeks under the watchful eyes of The Queen’s Colour Squadron drill instructors at RAF Northolt.

The landmark event went off without a hitch and the gunners and officers who took part will forever feel pride that they were part of such a historic moment.

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2623 Sqn

2623 Squadron

RAuxAF Regt

Wolf Standard on the Forecourt of Buckingham Palace A honour and a privilege may well be a cliché, but this was my moment to stand tall and to experience the moment of pride standing in front of Buckingham Palace in my Greatcoat, Officer’s sword by my side and my Squadron Standard held tight.

In front of me, as I looked out at the crowd beyond the railings, I could see my youngest son pressing himself through the railings, it was like he was trying to reach me, my middle child with biggest grin chatting with my reservist gunners that had taken time off work to witness this historic moment.

My eldest so excited to see Dad standing on guard at Buckingham Palace that he could not resist bouncing his six foot four up and down waving for one of the SNCOs later to remark “I wondered what was occurring before I then saw the family resemblance”. This was the first time ever that the 2623 Squadron RAF Regiment Reserves Standard was being paraded on the forecourt of Buckingham

Palace in front of Royalty and on this occasion, His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Kent. The new guard and the standard bearers first had to move in perfect synchronization from Wellington Barracks across to the Forecourt of the Palace, once in position we standard bearers gave a Royal Salute with our Squadron Standards whilst the National Anthem was played. This is when the standard is forced to one side and then draped on the ground before being thrown up back into the correct position with “grace, poise, and accuracy”.

The ceremonial Changing of the Guard took 45 mins, during which I just relaxed, enjoyed, and wondered how I had been so lucky to have this time standing still with

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family and friends watching on this magnificence. Once the change of guard was complete, a second Royal Salute was performed, and then the Duke of Kent walked past the standards back into the Palace although he doubled back as he saw my massive frame and for a moment, I thought was going to fall over!! We then slow marched and quick marched off the forecourt back to Wellington Barracks to be dismissed and the relief that the event had gone perfectly to plan, and I had achieved in my part in RAF Regiment History.

This occasion was the 80th Anniversary of the Formation of the RAF Regiment. The Regular and Reserves Squadron Standards were ordered to be paraded with the Queen’s Colour Squadron whilst performing a “Blue on Blue” Full Mount and Full Dismount during Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace in front of Royalty – I cannot believe that I am writing this piece as what were doing is so much at a heart of our nation’s history and culture and pride. Within normal protocols, the Foot Guards and/or Queen’s

Colour Squadron would handover responsibilities for Guarding the Royal Palaces to a different guarding unit however on this occasion, Her Majesty gave special consent for this “blue on blue” to occur. Musical support from the Band of the RAF Regiment (Full Mount) and the Central Band of the RAF (Full Dismount) were magnificent and the power of their sounds elevated our drills, making you a full foot taller and 10 times louder when you moved as one!!

Given that I am a Reserves Officer with limited ceremonial experience, and limited “cere fitness”, the RAF Regiment took no risks and sent me to RAF Northolt, the Home of the RAF Ceremonial, for 15 days to be polished and paraded to the highest standards of presentation and perfection. As a team of squadron standard bearers we ranged from early twentys to early sixtys with me somewhere in the middle of that!

The event itself was truly amazing however working with the fellow standard bearers and NATO’s finest drill machines will be an experience long remembered.

MARK THE ANNIVERSARY OF ONE OF THE RAF’S MOST DARING OPERATIONS BY CYCLING 56 OR 100 MILES

MAIN RIDE: SAT 14 MAY 2022 Start & finish: The Petwood Hotel, Lincolnshire, home of the Dambusters Ride to take a heritage route

VIRTUAL RIDE: SAT 7 – SUN 8 MAY 2022 Enter individually or as a team

Raise vital funds for the RAF Family Exclusive medal and jersey for all riders

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rafbf.org/ride Registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109).

Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Whether you’re looking to use the Forces Help to Buy scheme, finding your first mortgage, want to switch rates to save money or releasing capital to renovate your own home… you can get the advice you need by calling the Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service - provided by Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited.

It’s as easy as this You’ll be asked a few simple questions, incomings, outgoings, that kind of thing. It takes around 15 minutes. Then it’s an appointment with one of their impartial mortgage advisors. They take the time to understand what you’re looking for, before coming back with the most suitable option for you. They will then guide you through your mortgage journey.

One call could put you on your way to a better deal

A mortgage is a loan secured against your home.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Lines are open: Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm or request a call-back at forcesmutual.org/mortgages

0333 222 4486

Important things you should know: PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual acts as an intermediary for the purposes of introducing its customers to Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited, part of Tenet. You will not receive advice or any recommendation from Forces Mutual. Such services will be provided by Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited who will provide Forces Mutual with information about the services you have received. Forces Mutual will receive 18.6% of any lender procuration fee from Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited in connection with the provision of mortgage broking services.

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PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: 55 Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 0RL. Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of TenetConnect Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference FRN: 149826. Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited is a company registered in England and Wales under company number: 09111571 and whose registered office is at 5 Lister Hill, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5AZ. Calls to 03 numbers usually cost no more than to geographic numbers (01 or 02) and are usually included in call packages, please check with your phone company if they are included in your package. For your security, all calls are recorded any may be monitored.

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