Honington - Winter 2022

The Magazine of RAF Honington Herald

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

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SC AN

W IT H YO

Station Commander’sForeword

Annual Christmas Tree Light Switch On

Honington Golf Society

RAF

Air Cadets and Combined Cadet Forces visit RAF Honington

Padre’s Peace

Flight Sergeant Morris Receives the Sir James Gildea Award

Lest We Forget

Ex PITCH BLACK 2022

11

The Award Winning Armament Engineering Flight 15 AOC 2 Group Annual Formal Inspection

RAF Police Military Working Dog Trials 2022 at RAF Honington

First RAF Eng Tech (Weapons) to train Ukranian Forces

Ladies Football Team news

RAF Honington Orienteering Team news

CO’s Cup Water Polo

Force Protection Centre

Training Wing

Commander’s Foreword

Right from the beginning I talked about our Station responsibilities to SETT (Support, Equip, Train and Think) the FP Force for success –and I am proud that this is what we have indeed delivered. Of course this magazine is for the entirety of our community living and working at RAF Honington, regardless of your Service, uniform, civilian or contractor, Regular or Reservist, part-time or full time; and my second mantra of STOP; THINK; ACT applies to everyone all the time. While we will never know if this mantra has saved a life, I do know that its lack of use has, on occasion, led to bad and avoidable things happening.

When I took over we were still in lockdown and we had a difficult 6 months or so trying to manage the Covid pandemic; now we’ve just got used to living with it. OFSTED came, but gave us an extremely positive assessment validating the significant efforts of Training Wing and the Station-wide support.

It has been my regrettable honour to unexpectedly change into my No1s twice in my time to march out and lower our Ensign to pay our respects for the passing of

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and then more recently Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and then play a significant part in the delivery of Op BRIDGE.  Of course we also had recently celebrated Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, with a superb parade in Bury St Edmunds, including our brilliant Voluntary band, and our Military Wives Choir performing on stage with Katherine Jenkins at Sandringham – fabulous!

As always people are responsible for the very highest highs and very lowest lows; our amazing people (you!) doing quite incredible things to support others, to volunteer, to raise money for charity, to lead and be utterly determined to make a difference to the lives of others. Our Band, our Heritage Centre, our sports, social and Mess Committees standout. I am proud of the development of our community, with communal BBQ areas, improved nature trail, allotments all now delivered and significant improvements to the experience of the Meiktila Mess just around the corner. Our infrastructure has taken a big step forward with more coming in the years ahead – and Amazon lockers are now here and ready for Christmas! Our

Football team won the Cup, our ASTRA initiatives won awards and our standing across our entire region has gone from strength to strength. We are held in the highest regard.

We have also made superb progress reserving the tide of underinvestment in equipment, with Force Protection Experimentation putting real energy and substance into this, and our best in class lessons and learning providing the foundation for this journey – new equipment has already arrived and much more is right around the corner.

Of course all organisations must constantly evolve and develop, as to standstill is actually to go backwards. And therefore its timely for me to soon step aside and welcome Wing Commander Max Hayward as our new Station Commander from mid Jan 23 onwards; I wish him (and you all) every success for the future.

So finally, it only remains for me to offer you all my sincere thanks for your loyal service to RAF

Honington, to Defence and to our nation, to wish you a happy festive period and a safe and productive 2023. Good luck and good fortune to you all. The privilege of a lifetime so ends.

Honington Herald is now available online:

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

Group Captain Piers 'Dutch' Holland MBE MA RAF

TREE LIGHT SWITCH ON

BASE SUPPORT GROUP

Attestation At RAF Honington

All service personnel will remember their own Attestation into Service life and for most of us, the Sworn Oath of Allegiance will have been to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, but following HMTQ sad death changes were quickly made to ensure planned attestations could continue.

RAF Honington Base Support Group recently conducted its 1st Attestation where the Oath of Allegiance was to his Majesty King

Charles III.  Wing Commander Fenton has previously served with RAF Honington Base Support Group but left us to take up a Part Time Volunteer Reserve but Flight Lieutenant Hannah Rutter re-attested him into the Base Support Group on 15th November 2022. We are very pleased to welcome him back to the Base Support Group Team as his role at RAF Honington is vital in continuing to provide UK wide support to the RAF Reserves Force elements.

WHAT IS THE BASE SUPPORT GROUP?

Base Support Group provides opportunities for ex-Regulars and Reserves to stay connected to the RAF family and work part time. If you have spare time and would like to work a few days a month, we currently have roles at our Eastern Region units at Honington and Marham.

The BSG provides a pool of parttime, locally engaged personnel who can undertake routine tasks at a local level to mitigate manning shortfalls or to meet a surge requirement. Individuals with previous military service register with the BSG Hub and matched to opportunities at their nearest Eastern Regional unit (RAF Honington, Marham or Henlow). You would be enlisted in the RAF Reserve and retain uniform, an ID card and base privileges

such as use of the gym and mess membership if appropriate.

Individuals joining this cadre would be qualified and experienced within their Branch/ Trade from previous Regular/ Reserve service and would transfer to the BSG in their previous rank into the current RAF Profession. As VeRR there is no requirement to complete CCS, RAFFT or to receive an annual appraisal.  You would be part of a valuable manpower resource for use by stations on an ‘as and when required’ basis.  It is a flexible employment arrangement with no compulsion on the RAF to offer reserve service days and equally no compulsion on you to attend when asked; the offer would be a voluntary engagement “Zero Hours Contract”, with no enforceable commitment either way (very similar to agency bank nurses or supply teachers).

See this link to see what’s on offer: https://www.raf.mod.uk/ourorganisation/stations/raf-honington/news/base-support-groupeastern-region-job-vacancies/

For further information please email: HON-BaseSupportGroup@mod.gov.uk

‘The Annual Christmas Tree Light Switch On – AS2 Jones who at 17 years old continues our tradition of the youngest person on the Station having this honour’.

Thank you to everyone who supported the SSAFA Christmas Wreath Making Workshop in the Royal Air Force Honington  Church. The creative juices were definitely flowing especially the SWO’s. Some fabulous wreaths were made and £300 raised for SSAFA ISC Funds.

RAF HONINGTON GOLF SOCIETY

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RAF Honington Golf Society played its Winter Turkey Trot Meeting at the Thetford Golf Course. As you can imagine we had to battle the elements but we caught it lucky and got some nice winter sun. After a few wayward shots, included one that actually went backwards on the first tee (which no one has ever seen before) from a Golfer who shall remain nameless everyone got into the swing of it and there was some fantastic Golf played by all 14 players who attended.

The Winter meeting marks the final event in the fixtures card for

Honington Golf Society. This year the society has struggled with many players being posted away from the unit and operational deployments. However, we are glad to report that the ranks are being replenished by new blood arriving,

some of which tee’d it up for the first time with us at the Turkey Trot. The most notable success this year has been given to the fantastic achievement made by Jake Barker who has been selected for the RAF Squad.

Credit and congratulations go to Ian Ramsay (our own Tiger Woods) who after returning to Golf from a serious operation on his back won the contest with a great score of 36 Stableford points. He played outstanding Golf, driving the ball straight and long; achieving pinpoint accuracy with his approach play and mastering the speed and undulations of the greens with an expert eye and touch.

If you are interested in playing next year, please check out the Golf SharePoint page and Gym noticeboards.

Joe Birch

Yours in Golf

Community Centre Amazon Lockers

- Introducing ‘Circumference’

Can’t get to the Post Room, or expecting a parcel at the weekend? There is now a set of Amazon Lockers at the Community Centre.

The ‘Circumference’ Amazon Locker provides you with a self-service delivery location to collect and return your Amazon.co.uk packages. Instead of having a package delivered to your home address, SFA or the Post Room, you can select the ‘Circumference’ Amazon Locker location. Then, you can collect your package at a time that suits you.

RAF Air Cadets and Combined Cadet Forces visit RAF Honington

Throughout the summer months the Station Armoury has facilitated numerous RAFAC visits from Squadrons across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Bedfordshire, and Cambridge, providing demonstrations on the Dismounted Close Combat equipment of the RAF Regiment, their capabilities and how they would be employed on operations across the world. AS1 (T) Hughes and I hosted on this occasion 1094 Sqn, detailing our wider roles within the RAF as Aircraft Technicians, as well as our current role in the support of RAF Regiment Phase 2 Training and other operational commitments. Future equipment and capabilities were also covered, including the new L85A3 Individual Weapon, soon to be issued across all the Force Elements, as well as the newly issued XACT NV33 Night Vision Googles which will vastly improve upon the RAF Regiments ‘Fighting at Night’ capability. After the presentation, Cadets where provided the opportunity to interact with all the displayed equipment and to engage with armament staff to pose any questions they had.

AS1(T) Edbrooke, Station Armoury

“The Cadets had a brilliant time taking part in the planned activities your team put together for us and many of the Cadets enjoyed their first visit to an RAF station.”

“The cadets enjoyedthoroughly the day, especially the time spent at the Armoury.”

“Please

love

MINORITIES CONFERENCE

Recently I attended the RAF Ethnic Minorities Conference which was held at RAF Henlow on 13 - 14 October 2022. I received an invite to attend the event and was honoured that my skills as a Chef was requested for the main dinner. This enabled me the opportunity to prepare various Afro-Caribbean dishes that were authentic to my ethnic background, displaying these culinary delights to all guests including VIP dignitaries.

A breakdown of my dishes enjoyed by all throughout included East African Pilau, homemade Chapati and Indian Beef Curry. Also, on the menu were dishes from the Caribbean, West Africa, and Asia; these were prepared and served by five fellow RAF TG19 Chefs. This was a special occasion for us all as we were all from the same Phase two training course and we completed the Defence Chef Basic Course together as a cohort. It was lovely to meet up with them again and

work together for such an amazing conference in the same kitchen. I really enjoyed learning about their respective individual cultures, and they introduced me to various dishes from their countries like Ghanaian Jollof Rice, Fried Plantain, Jamaican Curry Goat and Spicy Pork Stir Fry. This enjoyment was echoed by all, as we all received great feedback especially guests who loved seeing dishes from their native home countries.

The main purpose of the conference was to celebrate and recognise the success and contribution of Ethnic Minorities in various professions

across the RAF. It was a great experience to learn about the sacrifices and contributions that Ethnic Minorities have given over the decades towards the success of the RAF and the wider

service community in general. The conference gave us motivation to work better and to be resilient in performing our duties within our various areas of responsibilities as our predecessors did.

AS1 SAGWE

PADRE’S PEACE

As we all know, we are expecting more austerity as a nation. We are being encouraged to prepare to tighten our belts and pop a jumper on rather than the heating, and to gird our loins for a cost-ofliving crisis. Add to this the bird flu epidemic and a potential shortage of turkey: its not shaping up to be the most festive Christmas! Or is it?

Many of us recognise the importance of making some sacrifices. Those on the bread line really do need help at this time – from those of us who can just about get by. If you are finding yourself in this situation please do get in touch as soon as you can, as we have loads of places we can seek help for you.Sacrifice is about giving stuff up. In the Bible, the ancient Israelites used to give up animals for sacrifice in the Temple in order to make peace with God and with each other. Sacrifice was not done for no reason, but to achieve something.While we don’t sacrifice in anything like the same way in our culture, the principle stands. We are being asked to sacrifice some things to achieve something; in our case the alleviation of poverty, the rescue of our economy and of course the benefit to the environment too.At this time of year, many of us recall the moment when God came to

earth – born in poverty in a stable in Bethlehem: Jesus. He came not with great fanfare or fame but quietly among the people he came to serve.  He was visited not by political leaders or royalty but by simple shepherds and star gazers. The church believes that Jesus gave up his power and prestige so he could be one of us.Perhaps the message for us this Christmas is that even if we won’t have quite as much money as we planned for Christmas presents, and even if our belts are a bit tighter, our sacrifices will be of benefit to us and especially to others this Christmas-time. And even if we do need to sacrifice in this way it doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice on the love with which we give the presents.

Have a blessed Christmas season with whoever you find yourself with; if you are working then be safe.

Flight Sergeant Morris receives the Sir James Gildea Award

Flight Sergeant Clive Morris, RAF Regiment Gunner and volunteer of the Royal Air Force Honington SSAFA In-Service Committee has been presented with a Sir James Gildea Award for his huge contribution to the serving families at Royal Air Force Honington as the Community Volunteer Coordinator. The award reflects his enormous commitment to SSAFA as an organisation by always seeking to improve the services that the Charity can

deliver to the Service Community.

SSAFA’s Sir James Gildea Awards were created to recognise volunteers and employees for their exceptional contribution and commitment to SSAFA’s activities and values.

Clive was the only Service Committee representative from across all 3 services to receive the award for his performance in 2021.

Well done Clive!

Padres Matt & Jo

Remembrance - 11 Nov 22

‘They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.’

Remembrance Parade in Bury St. Edmunds

The station comes together at the eleventh hour to pay their respects in the memorial garden

Service Community Support Officer WO Mark Steward attends the HMP Wayland Memorial Service

Apex Theatre Remembrance Concert

Apex Theatre Remembrance Concert

Ex PITCH BLACK 22

On the 10 Aug 22 I deployed for five weeks as the Chef lead on EX PBK 22 to support

Darwin in the NT Australia. PBK22 is the biennial, capstone international engagement

regional partnerships, improve interoperability between nations and promote

tactical interactions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Hosting up to 2,500 personnel and up to 100 aircraft from 17 Air Forces around the globe including participants from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States. The UK contribution was 4 Typhoons and a refuelling Voyager with 200 RAF personnel.

Leading 15 Chefs from across TG19 we travelled from all corners of the UK to meet at Prestwick airport for the short hop around the world. It became perfectly clear I had a good mix within the team of unit Catering, 3MCS and RAuxAF providing a blend of experience and personality.

After the transfer from the airport, we arrived at Bladin Village which was built as an isolation camp before being converted into transit accommodation for a modern transient workforce. The accommodation fit for purpose but very remote. Up steps the modern Aviators with their Uber Apps so we could make the most of our time whilst we awaited logistics requirements.

Fully embedded with RAAF Chefs the team were split across three messes and In-Flt. Instantly it became apparent that the team were going to enjoy their time working in an environment reminiscent of the pre-PAYD era. The quality of the ingredients and the free licence to create menus of their choice was refreshing and gave the experienced operators an excellent opportunity to showcase their mentoring, teaching skills and exceptional culinary knowledge.

Taking a lead in all outlets they impressed the RAAF management and other foreign nations chefs. The

Stn Cdr said we were the ‘cavalry coming over the hill’ when we arrived due to the talent of which we had brought to support the EX. Due to previous redundancies in the RAAF they have now had to recruit as they had reduced to far; however, this left a void in experienced tradesman on the shop floor, fortunately we have had brought an abundance of experience. Including a rare sight of a FS in whites on occasion.

Throughout the Ex the Chefs had the opportunity to work with quality ingredients including Crocodile, Kangaroo and native herbs such as Salt Bush as well as cooking T-Bone Steak, Lamb Rumps and Calamari for lunch.

Feeding 700+ in the JRM and up to 450 in the two messes was the daily battle rhythm with the addition of a plethora of functions and VVIP visits. The team rotated around all areas, so they all experienced the different outlets and cultures.

Catering

for diversity and adapting

to the ever-changing needs of the customer, they fully emersed themselves into the authenticity of catering for different nationalities. The standout event of the Ex was the International Night where all nations showed off what their countries had to offer. As well as supporting the quintessentially British Pimm’s and Scone stand we also supported in designing menus and working the International buffet for 2000 SP. This extremely busy event captured the collaborative working and exceptional standards of the whole multinational team.

EX PBK22 was an amazing experience for all involved and the amount of praise bestowed upon the team from ACAUST, and CAF showed the high regard and importance they put on catering as the motivating force for SP. The Catering Team received a commendation for the Exceptional Performance from CAF. The team worked extremely hard

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serving 57500 across three separate Messes, an additional 15000 InFlight catering meals. They also managed to experience some of the breath-taking scenery and wildlife that Australia has to offer. The hospitality of the RAAF was exceptional and made us feel very welcome and the team seamlessly worked in harmony throughout.

FS Justin Collings

catering output on RAAF

activity aimed at strengthening

regional stability through habitual

THE AWARD WINNING ARMAMENT ENGINEERING FLIGHT!

Rolls-Royce Royal Air Force Engineering Efficiency Award 2022

RAF Honington Armament Engineering Flight has been awarded the RollsRoyce Royal Air Force Engineering Efficiency Award 2022. The award recognises team accomplishment and is open to any Main or Deployed Operating Base based Service Person, civilian, contractor or mixed team that has made an original

and outstanding contribution to enhancing efficiency, capability or effectiveness in engineering support to operations

Displaying exceptional and relentless performance throughout enduring periods of intense stretch and workforce limitations, the RAF Honington Station Armoury, consisting of only 13 team members faultlessly inspected,

maintained, rectified and delivered 2500 infantry weapons in direct support of Force Protection Force Elements within the United Kingdom and abroad.

Driving ASTRA Project POMONA, the team has delivered a fully automated and digital weapons issue and receipt process that has reduced mandatory monthly weapons audit timelines by 92%.

This has included revolutionary use of scanning and optical tracking of equipment and an MOD first use of robotics. Enhancing efficiency, capability and operational engineering support has been the result of steadfast professionalism and a thirst for delivering significant improvements in multiple arenas saving £35K on unit with a potential £5.8m saving across defence.

Armament

Flight (AEF) have also been

the Astra

2022 – Sponsored by Lockheed Martin UK. Awarded to the individual or team that has made the most significant impact on operations or the operational environment through Astra activity.

to

Astra Contribution to Operations Award 2022

Engineering

awarded

Contribution

Operations Award

Members of the Honington station armoury back at RAF Honington following presentation of the Rolls-Royce Royal Air Force Engineering Efficiency Award 2022 at RAF Cosford.

AS1(T) Bird receives the Rolls Royce award at the RAF Engineer and Cyberspace Conference at RAF Cosford

AOC 2 GROUP ANNUAL FORMAL INSPECTION

The Station recently welcomed Air Vice-Marshal Suraya Marshall for her Annual Formal Inspection. The successful visit provided the AOC an opportunity to inspect the Station whilst engaging with whole force personnel. Visiting a variety of areas across the Station including Support Wing and the Force Protection Centre, Air Vice-Marshal Marshall brought all Station personnel together for a brief at the end of the day. The AOC also took the time to present Honours and Awards including a Royal Warrant to WO Ian Danks and the AOC 2 Group Team Commendation to Armament Engineering Flight.

Images

MOD AS(2) Williams

RAF POLICE MILITARY WORKING DOG TRIALS 2022 AT RAF HONINGTON

Throughout trials, competitors were tested in a variety of operational scenarios including core skills of agility and obedience, threat perception during day and night patrols, and a dog’s ability to track and trace intruders through wind scent capabilities.

Provost Marshal, Group Captain Foster-Jones said: “Congratulations to all of the competitors that have taken part in this year’s trial. Military Working Dogs provide a pivotal capability that supports the protection and enablement of Air and Space Power. It is humbling to see the passion and drive that each of the competing teams has shown throughout the competition.”

The Military Working Dog Trials

represent the core values shared between the Handlers and their Dog companions while inspiring the current and future generations of the RAF to develop their skills in the pursuit of excellence. Military Working Dogs play a vital role in supporting RAF Police Handlers to protect people and fight crime.

Equipped with their sensory superpowers, the dogs are a strength unrivalled by the most advanced modern technology.

The 2022 RAF Police Military Working Dog Champion - Corporal Shepherd and Military Working Dog Alwix from RAF Brize Norton

FIRST RAF ENG TECH (WEAPONS) TO TRAIN UKRAINIAN FORCES

Using his vast trade knowledge, Cpl Smith organised the required space, implementing a vital maintenance area, allowing for quick rectification tasks to be carried out. Concurrent activities were possible thanks to his training of three ORs under his command in the aspects of running an RAF Armoury. Cpl Smith also took command and trained two REME Class 1 Armourers on best practise repair techniques on the L85A2 and L85A3 platforms when they arrived.

Cpl Smith had the opportunity to become familiarised on the AK47 weapon platform during his 4-month deployment, something

which very few RAF Armourers have done. Cpl Smith’s greatest accomplishment was being given the time to train Ukrainian personnel on quick, efficient and necessary methods of cleaning their weapons so that they could fully function when needed.

Cpl Smith said:  “It was an honour being able to assist the RAF Regiment with their tailored programme for our partner forces. Seeing the Ukrainians so enthusiastic about training and getting ready to go back to their country to defend and protect their families and homes was an incredible feeling I will probably never experience again.”

Cpl Kev Smith of Armament Engineering Flight was the first RAF Eng Tech (W) to deploy to Wathgill Camp, Yorkshire, tasked at short notice and building a functional Armoury from scratch upon arrival.

WINNING START FOR RAF HONINGTON LADIES FOOTBALL TEAM

October

The game started end-to-end, with good opportunities to take the lead from both teams as they each tried to settle into their rhythm and find an opener. This eventually came in the 23rd minute when Lauren Roberts ran some good play down the left and fired a cross into the box allowing Hannah Williams to tuck away in the bottom left corner. 5 minutes later Jenna Clark’s fancy footwork caused Wittering ladies to foul in the box, awarding a penalty, which Jenna finished neatly, enabling the home team to go into the break with a 2-goal lead.

Wittering ladies came out strong in the second half and capitalised this play with a lovely goal whilst

the home team were adjusting to a half time formation change. Less than 10 minutes later, Lauren Roberts was on the scoresheet after some good interlinking play from the ladies allowing the captain to find the back of the net to make it 3-1. Shortly afterwards, Wittering launched a quick and lethal

counterattack from a Honington corner, resulting in a goal to the visitors, bringing the score to 3-2 with 20 minutes left to play. The game then opened for both teams with Hannah Curtis making a crucial save down to her left side to keep the home team in the lead at a time when it mattered

See you in the Forest!

The RAF Honington Orienteering team recently participate in the RAF Orienteering Championships, held in Wendover Woods, near RAF Halton. RAF Honington Orienteers

Plt Of Sean Valand, LCpl Shaun Farley and AS1 Jack Bridge took the top 3 places in the novice competition, with LCpl Shaun Farley taking the top place: this was particularly impressive as Plt Off Valand had only Orienteered once before and this was AS1 Bridge’s first attempt! Sqn Ldr John Liston took 7th place in the gruelling open competition and subsequently achieved selection for the RAF team.

Orienteering is an adventure sport where participants navigate individually, using map and compass, against the clock through a series of checkpoints. It can take place almost anywhere from military training areas to city centres, lowland forests and across lake district fells. There are always courses suitable for a full range of abilities and ages and its often the competitors who run slowly and navigate effectively who do best! For RAF personnel, but particularly for RAF Regt Orienteering is ideal

for developing and practicing map reading, micro-navigation, decision making at pace and under pressure, moving efficiently across terrain and is a real test of resilience and physical capability. For anyone looking to improve these areas as prep for selection, FT/JROC, JTAC trg, or even just for a different sort of running, the sport is ideal.

The OIC, Sqn Ldr John Liston

found that being an experienced Orienteer made JROC much easier and helped get him successfully through JTAC training.

Travel and entry fees to authorised fixtures are funded and apart from a decent set of trail-running shoes, any other kit required can be borrowed, making it a relatively cheap sport to take up. Full

most. Excellent defending from Honington then followed with Sophie Ellis commanding the back line well as Wittering pressed for an equaliser.

With 15 minutes left to play Hannah Williams was on the end of a Honington Corner from Jenna Clark giving the ladies a 2-goal lead. Lauren Roberts then topped off an excellent performance bagging her second goal of the game. In the closing 5 minutes, Tash Kenny scored from a tight angle after a through ball from Hannah Williams to make it 6 goals for the home team. Wittering didn’t give up though and in the closing seconds managed to find the back of the net to make the final result: RAF Honington 6 – 3 RAF Wittering. An enjoyable game had by all and a great start to the season for the Ladies. Well Done!

Referee: Craig Lenane

training will be given and the RAF Honington Orienteering club has access to RAF Orienteering’s qualified coaches and advice from National standard competitors.

Fixtures/training are on selected Wednesdays: for more information, please see the posters in the gym, Google “British Orienteering” or contact Sqn Ldr John Liston on ModNet.

saw the RAF Honington play their inaugural fixture in the Lincolnshire Services Association Football League (South Division) against RAF Wittering at Home.

Sgt Hannah Williams

LCpl Shaun Farley, RAF Orienteering Novice champion 2022

RAF Honington Orienteering Team

RAF Honington Orienteering Team Success at RAF Orienteering Championships.

CO’s CUP WATER POLO

The CO’s Cup Water polo competition consisted of 4 teams; Trg Wg 1, Trg Wg 2, ASF2 and FPFHQ. In the round robin style tournament which saw several goals scored, it came down to ASF2 and FPFHQ to play off in the final. In a close game ending 3-4, a last minute goal brought victory to FPFHQ. There was a great atmosphere all afternoon

and it was brilliant to see so many people getting involved in the sport.

Netball is next!

Keep an eye on the Station Social Media channels for highlights of all the CO’s Cup events this year, and of course the overall winning team.

RAF FORCE PROTECTION CENTRE

As we edge closer to the end of the year we welcome Wing Commander Ben Alcock recently arrived as the new Officer Commanding Force Protection Centre. He joins from a capability role and is therefore ideally suited to continue the ongoing Force Protection Experimentation, exploring the next generation of capabilities. Hitting the ground running, he has already briefed Air Chief Marshal Wigston on Force Protection Experimentation during the CAS’s visit to Cyprus where the role of the FP elements deployed there support. Also arriving into the ‘top corridor’ is Squadron Leader Maxwell-Whale who is the new Executive Officer. He joins from a role within the Permenant Joint Head Quarters, so is more than used to the fast pace of work that will be required!

The Training Squadron jumped into action at short notice to train II squadron RAF Regiment in the use of Remotely Piloted Air Systems. II Sqn have been supporting the training of Ukrainian personnel in combat tactics. The Ukraine conflict has seen extensive use of Remotely Piloted Air Systems which have been employed in a vast range of roles from intelligence gathering to attack. The on going deployment of drones bolsters the requirement for effective tactics and countermeasures to combat an adversary’s effectiveness

whilst, concurrently, also further developing tactics for our own use of the capability.

Keeping a close ear to the ground when it comes to CounterUncrewed Air Systems, the Counter Threats team attended the Three Counties Defence & Security Expo, the UK’s most diverse and forward-thinking security expo. The event is an active touchpoint for leading-edge technology and innovative strategic thinking set against the new threat landscape. The expo centred around UK MOD multi-domain integration and how industry can support future innovation to counter future threats.

The Air anjd Space Combat Power Visit took place at RAF Brize Norton this year and is an opportunity for Advanced Command Staff Course students to view an array of elements of Air Power and its key enablers. The Concepts team attended with experimental equipment that is currently being employed in Cyprus with 15 Squadron RAF Regt. The event is a valuable insight for more than 240 UK and international commanders who will be the military leaders of future operations.

A rare chance to complete team building activities was seized when Flt Lt Shelton organised for a force development trip to Cambridge. Two teams faced off to complete the monopoly photo challenge where points are gathered by visiting various landmarks and taking a team photo. Extra points were also gathered for Tesla cars and red phone boxes! The competition was fierce, but ultimately Training Squadron took the first place position with a cunning use of tactics.

Flt Lt Stephen Price, FPC

Photo courtesy of FPC

RAF REGIMENT

TRAINING WING

The RAF Regiment Training Wing at RAF Honington is responsible for Phase 0 (Attract & Select), Phase 2 (Role Specific Training) and Phase 3 (Leadership, Command, Continuation and Specialist) training for RAF Regiment Gunners and Officers – delivering safe, realistic, robust and operationally focussed training to over 2000 personnel per year.

On 26 Oct 22 Squadron Leader Rich May handed over the role of Officer Commanding Regimental Training Squadron (Advanced) to Squadron Leader James Mitchell. Squadron Leader May leaves RAF Honington for MOD Main Building whilst Squadron Leader comes across from the Force Protection HQ to the RAF Regt Trg Wg. We wish them both the very best in their new roles.

In August, students of the Junior Regiment Officers’ Course 127 deployed on Ex CENTURION’S EAGLE, an overseas exercise to RAF Akrotiri. Primarily hosted by 15 Squadron RAF Regiment, the students were given an insight into how the Squadron is delivering Air Force Protection to support ongoing operations, including a wide range of briefings from 903 Expeditionary Air Wing and the Army Operations Watchkeeper including how

the British Army’s maritime boat patrols assist with protecting the coastline surrounding RAF Akrotiri. The opportunity to conduct their own squadron level combat estimate for RAF Akrotiri briefed to Officer Commanding 3 FP Wg provided an early understanding into the potential role they might be executing in the future.

Late September saw students at Honington deploy on Ex CENTURION’S TRIDENT which is a fundamental introduction to Flight level tactics. All students were given multiple scenarios that encompassed enemy force engagements, casualties and other injects to hone their skills to take forward in the latter stages of the course. Among these patrols, students were exposed to various Flight level orders across a range of mission specific scenarios ranging from Defensive, Ambush and Raids. The final days of the exercise focused on the Tactical Sergeant role and how this differs from the Flight Commander role. Looking towards the future, students now have the fundamental knowledge to move onto the later stages of the course and ultimately assist them in passing their final

Squadron Leader Rich May hands over the role of Officer Commanding Regimental Training Squadron (Advanced) to Squadron Leader James Mitchell

assessments in late November.

The 3-week Pre-Parachute Selection Course aims to prepare, condition and select volunteer personnel in their physical aptitude, endurance, determination and fitness to carry out military tasks related to duties on Airborne Specialist roles within the RAF Regt. Thirty-two students attempted this punishing programme in October which consists of numerous loaded

marches, runs, PT circuits, logs and stretcher events. The course has a high attrition rate and by the end of week 2 student numbers were reduced to 9 ahead of the second conditioning week delivered at Sennybridge Training area. where the remaining students must complete every test within the allocated times. The last event on the course is the Steeplechase at RAF Honington, which the final 8 students successfully passed who are now eligible to not only earn

their military parachute wings but the right to apply for specialist roles within the Tri-Service community.

Training Support Flt, 4001 Flt and the RAF Regiment Recruitment and Selection Flt have been maintaining a consistent output in their support to training delivery and recruitment events. What is known as the ‘summer season’ for RRRSF with their engagement at the Royal International Air Tattoo,

the British Grand Prix, National Armed Forces Day along with sporting and expo events such as the Arnold Festival seem a distant memory. The team have now turned all of their attention to outreach into schools and colleges and at National Skills and careers events, with the most recent examples being a STEM event at Thorpe Park and the Skills Cyrum expo at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff where in excess of 20000 people attended over 4 days.

AS1 Smith Top Student

GRADUATIONS

Prize Winners:

Frank Sylvester Trophy: AS2 Moore

To commemorate her late husband’s dedication to the Corps and in particular to the training of young Gunners, his widow presented the Frank Silvester Trophy for award to the best all-round Trainee Gunner of each course.

The RAF Regt Association Trophy for Drill and Deportment: AS2 Sendall

This award is made to the Trainee Gunner who has developed an excellent military deportment, assessed both on and off duty, on the parade square and, most importantly during field exercises

WO Ramsey Physical Development Cup: AS2 Parry

This prize is awarded to the Trainee Gunner who achieves the greatest improvement during the physical development course.

LAC Beard Recruits’ Trophy: AS2 Ross

This trophy is awarded to the Gunner who has been voted by his peers on the Course as the most inspirational and supportive member of the Flight.  The recipient of this trophy has provided loyalty, dependability and motivation to those around him during the toughest moments of the training

SAC Luders Champion Shot Trophy: AS2 Walker

This prize is awarded to the Trainee Gunner who has shot consistently well throughout the course.  He would also be the student who has shown consistent military awareness, on battle and field-firing exercises, in the selection of his shooting positions and use of cover.  He would also be one who has demonstrated consistently a high standard of weapon handling and safety awareness throughout the course.

Cpl Bradfield Trophy: Cpl Vince

The Corporal Bradfield Trophy preserves the example of the past embodied by Corporal Bradfield, in the standards set by the JNCOs of today. It is awarded to the Corporal Instructor who has displayed leadership, motivation and above all else has set an exemplary standard for the recruits to follow.

Congratulations to the 34 members of Trainee Gunner Course 1-22, Salalah Flight; the newest members of the RAF Regiment to have graduated here at RAF Honington. The new graduates were accompanied by the Band of the RAF College and joined by loved ones in the Jimmy James Hangar.Reviewing Officer Group Captain Dutch Holland MBE MA RAF, Station Commander RAF Honington, congratulated the new recruits on their future roles within the RAF Regiment.

AS2 Max Walker (17) celebrated his graduation from TG Course 1-22 Salalah Flight with support from his father Cpl Neil Walker (46) who happens to be an Instructor at the RAF Regiment Training Wing.

2623 Squadron

HM Queen Elizabeth II Funeral

The days surrounding the Queen’s funeral were a solemn period for all in the military, many serving personnel were involved in supporting roles and saw 2623 RAuxAF Sqn deploy to London in place of its expected Annual Training Period.

55 Broadway, a Grade I listed building adjacent to St James’ Park was the Squadron’s base mixed in with personnel from the Army and Navy over 8 floors.

The first few days saw us deploying around London offering direct support to police roadblocks, providing a presence to assist the public, and affording resilience during peak periods. Some of our units assisted those with accessibility needs through Westminster Hall during the lyingin-state period. In periods of down

By Cpl Greggory-Macdougall

time, all units capitalised on the opportunity to complete some FD to places like the Natural History Museum and the Tower of London, as well as conducting phys around Hyde Park – a welcome relief from duty and a change of scenery to the Troston 5!

During the day of the funeral, some personnel lined the procession route whilst others stood-to at locations such as Horse Guards or ready to fill gaps and marshal the civilian population before and after the event. We even had a couple of our Squadron members in No 1’s checking guest passes for those attending the funeral inside Westminster Abbey. The whole day went without any major incidents due to the collective effort of all those who took part. The public seemed to enjoy our presence and the police gave good feedback on our professionalism and drive.

Getting over 350 personnel out of London at short notice and back to their respective stations all around the UK seemed like it could have been a logistical nightmare. In fact, it was exceptionally smooth given the short turnaround time. All troops were packed and ready to go, coaches were booked, arrived

promptly and transited out of London efficiently.

We were proud to have been involved and supported in any way - big or small. I wonder if we’ll be asked to support next year for the coronation of the King…? To which we would be honoured.

Walking With the Wounded - Cumbrian Challenge

2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment (Wolf Squadron) travelled to Grasmere in the Lake District to take part in the 10th Anniversary of the Walking for the Wounded Cumbrian Challenge Charity event.

The Wolf Squadron entered two teams into the competition completed the Tougher of 3 routes which comprised of a 32km hike across the Cumbrian hills, ascending a total 1885m over 12 peaks throughout the course and finished strong with a competitive time.

This is the 5th consecutive year The Wolf Squadron has taken part and supported this worthwhile charity with 135 registered teams raising a total of £173,618.00 towards an amazing cause.

THE CHARITY

Established in 2010, Walking With The Wounded ‘WWTW’ is a leading military charity which recognises that those who served, deserve.

Whether mentally wounded, socially wounded or physically wounded, they deserve the care, support and means they and their families need to function in society, serving in the communities in which they live, reigniting their sense of purpose and making a positive contribution again.

Walking With The Wounded gets those who’ve served – and their families - back on their feet.

We do four things: employment, mental health, care coordination and volunteering which are saving jobs, homes, relationships, and lives for the veterans who are struggling since leaving the military.

Our innovative partnerships with the NHS, supporting mental health teams across the UK; the creation of Project Nova with the RFEA to intercept veterans in police custody and reduce reoffending; our own mental health capabilities enabling 121 therapies within days; and our award-winning volunteering initiative OP REGEN, are delivering significant, positive, social impacts across the UK.

From left to right: Cpl Paul Mudd, SAC Richard Price, Cpl Sam Reynolds, LAC Sarah Bailey, SAC Kevin Polley.

Nadia’s Journey and Fundraiser

Members of 2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment travelled to London recently to raise money and support for both Cpl Mudd’s Daughter, Nadia, and the charity Leukaemia UK.

Nadia was diagnosed with Leukaemia in March and has been undergoing a steadily increasing dose of chemotherapy treatment which has impacted her in such ways including losing her hair, losing weight, and constantly feeling sick. This takes its toll both mentally and physically and Nadia has had to stay strong and positive throughout, with lots of support from friends, family and the Squadron.

Since 2015, Leukaemia UK has funded over £7 million worth of leukaemia research and care in the

UK. This research pushes boundaries, makes vital discoveries, and leads to bold scientific advances that create hope for kinder and more effective treatments for leukaemia. All of which has a big impact on those that who have been diagnosed with the disease.

The sun was out and along with a large number of other stands the day raised over £3000. The best part of the day was when my daughter Nadia turned up to thank everyone for supporting her during cancer treatment and helping raise so much money for such a worthwhile charity and cause.

Cpl Mudd would personally like to thank 2623 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment and all those involved, and those that donated for their help and support they have given to myself and my family.

by Cpl Paul Mudd

The Squadron returned from Cyprus and post operational leave to the devastating news of Her Majesty The Queen’s passing and a re-tasking to support civilian security in London during the Queen’s laying in state and the Royal Funeral.

1 Squadron RAF Regiment

In total, 1500 personnel from across the services supported what was a busy but very fulfilling week. 1 Squadron undertaking different roles around central London, from crowd marshalling, Met Police support and even checking passes on the door of Westminster Abbey to ensure only those invited could attend the funeral itself. All this helped to ensure the smooth running of events and give Her Majesty The Queen the funeral she deserved!

Some uplifting news to return to work was that 1 Squadron’s own Aviation Specialist (1) Ray was awarded the RAF Tedder Academy Leadership talent award! This new award was created to help highlight the very best up and comers from across the RAF and the very first award (naturally) went to 1 Squadron. Ray was nominated in the summer whilst the squadron was in Cyprus and was successfully selected ahead

of all other nominees to claim the coveted prize and was presented it by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshall Sir Mike Wigston, with Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin in attendance during the Chief of the Air Staff’s Leadership Conference in September.

Throwing themselves straight back into work, members of 1 Squadron and personnel from the Air Land Integration Cell at RAF Coningsby travelled to Belgium on Exercise VOLCANEX, a multi-nation Ex focusing on Air Force Protection C2. Alongside counterparts from Sweden and the Netherlands, the exercise was designed to develop and test commanders in a multinational setting, whilst also helping to standardise the processes used by all allied nations present.

With no stops to the momentum of training, personnel from all three flights dived into Ex URBAN CHARIOT, a weeklong Close Quarter Battle exercise held in the Honington CAGE Training facility. This week allowed the gunners to brush off the cobwebs on their Close Quarter Battle skills and they worked up from dry practices in a well-lit and quiet room, all the way to up to simunition training in low red light with heavy music blasting. This ensured the gunners had to rely on their individual skills, use of hand signals and trust in the gunners next to them. This week was then followed by Ex CHARIOT STRIKE, another training week over in the CAGE Trg facility but this time adding an extra complexity of deploying from vehicles. With Foxhounds, drivers and commanders all being provided by the squadron, the exercise provided the realism that helps take training to the next level.

As always, a busy time for 1 Squadron.

Arkish Surrish - Swift and Sudden

1 Squadron’s own Aviation Specialist (1) Ray was awarded the RAF Tedder Academy Leadership talent award!