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INSIGHT INSIGHT

INSIGHT

Winter 25/26

From the Editor…

Flt Lt D.J. Hopkinson

As we move out of winter and reflect on another significant year for the Station, I’m pleased to welcome you to the Winter 2025/26 edition of Insight, the official publication of RAF Waddington.

A central feature of this edition is a series of articles reflecting on the distinguished service of the MQ-9A Reaper in the Royal Air Force, marking its official withdrawal from service. For many across Waddington, the Reaper has been more than an aircraft; it has represented commitment, innovation, and operational excellence over many years.

As always, Insight is only possible because of you. The magazine relies entirely on submissions from across the Station — your stories, achievements, photographs, and reflections are what make it a true representation of life at RAF Waddington. Thank you for your continued enthusiasm and willingness to contribute; without you, this publication simply would not function.

This edition is a personal milestone for me, as it will be my last as Editor. After years stationed here, I will shortly be posted. It has been an immense privilege to serve at RAF Waddington and to work on Insight, capturing just a fraction of the professionalism and spirit that define this Station.

I wish my successor the best of luck and ask that you continue to support them — and the magazine — with the same energy and generosity in your submissions.

Thank you.

EDITORIAL TEAM:

WAD-InsightEditorialTeam@mod.gov.uk

External Email:

Use personal email addresses

Tel: +44 (0)1522 726704

Editor:

Flt Lt D.J Hopkinson

WAD-InsightEditorialTeam@mod.gov.uk

Deputy Editor: Vacant

Designer: Amanda Robinson

Advertising by: Jayne Bailey

Tel: 01536 334 219

Published by:

Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire

NN16 8NL

Tel: 01536 334 222

Printed by: Micropress

Station Commander’s Foreword...

Group Captain Leanne Warner

As the winter months come to a close, I am delighted to be writing my first foreword as Station Commander of RAF Waddington. It is a genuine privilege to take up this appointment, and I am immensely proud to join a Station with such a distinguished operational heritage and an outstanding reputation across Defence. From my earliest days in post, I have been struck by the professionalism, warmth, and determination of the people who make this Station what it is. I am very happy to be here and honoured to serve alongside you all.

RAF Waddington continues to deliver exceptional operational output in support of the UK and interests worldwide. Whether generating intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance effects, enabling reach-back support, or sustaining those deployed at short notice, the Station remains at the forefront of operational excellence. The commitment shown across all squadrons, units, and supporting functions ensures that we provide Defence with credible, responsive capability whenever and wherever it is required.

This edition of Insight highlights not only our operational successes but also the strength of our community. I particularly enjoyed the Christmas Dinner hosted on Station for the families of those deployed over the festive period. While operations do not pause for the holidays, it was heartening to see our community come together to support families and ensure they felt valued and

connected during what can be a challenging time. That spirit of care and cohesion is one of RAF Waddington’s greatest strengths.

We also marked a significant milestone as the final elements of the Reaper force departed the United States, closing an important chapter in its operational history. As we transition fully to Protector, we look to the future of remotely piloted air systems and the enhanced capability this platform brings to UK Defence. Protector represents a step change in persistence, flexibility, and compliance within controlled airspace, reinforcing Waddington’s role as the home of UK ISTAR capability and a cornerstone of national security.

My sincere thanks go to every member of the Station for your continued hard work, resilience, and dedication. Your efforts—often unseen—are fundamental to our success. Finally, Insight remains your magazine. I encourage you to support our new editor and continue contributing your stories, achievements, and ideas so that together we showcase the people and professionalism that define RAF Waddington.

ROYAL VISIT COMMEMORATES MQ-9A REAPER’S

OUT OF SERVICE DATE

AT RAF WADDINGTON

RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire – 09 October 2025

RAF Waddington proudly hosted His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, Honorary Air Commodore, on a momentous occasion marking the retirement of the MQ-9A Reaper Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS). The event celebrated 18 years of outstanding operational service by XIII Squadron personnel, highlighting a significant chapter in the Station’s history.

A ceremonial parade, with HRH The Duke of Edinburgh serving as Reviewing Officer, formally marked the MQ-9A Reaper’s official Out of Service Date.

The parade was accompanied by a stirring performance from the Band of the Royal Air Force College, under the direction of Flying Officer Hynd and Drum Major Flight Sergeant Taylor.

Upon his arrival, HRH was warmly welcomed by Group Captain Dutch Holland, Station Commander RAF Waddington, alongside the Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, his Equerry, and other distinguished guests. The Duke met guests in the Officers’ Mess, where he viewed a specially commissioned XIII Squadron commemorative painting and signed the Visitors’ Book.

Following the parade, HRH returned to the Officers’ Mess for a VIP luncheon, where he engaged with personnel and guests, reflecting on the Reaper’s legacy and the dedication of those who operated it. Ceremonial duties

throughout the day were carried out with precision and pride by The Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet and the Station Commander’s Cadet, who played key roles in welcoming and assisting the Royal guest.

The visit not only celebrated the conclusion of the MQ9A Reaper’s distinguished service but also honoured the professionalism and commitment of RAF personnel who have operated the platform over nearly two decades. It further underscored the enduring bond between the Royal Family and the Royal Air Force, while marking a symbolic moment in the evolution of UK airpower.

Wg Cdr Sam Haley, OC XIII Sqn who acted as Parade Commander said “the day was about more than just recent history, but a shared century of RAF history and the end of its most recent chapter. Hopefully we can all look back proudly at the way it was delivered and remember both the memory of 18 years Operational support, and the memory of those that went before us. On behalf of XIII Sqn, my sincerest thanks to all who facilitated and supported the Reaper OSD events; the Sqn could not have achieved any of it without the Station and Air Wings commitment and dedication in providing something exceptional.”

As the RAF bids farewell to the MQ-9A Reaper, the event at RAF Waddington served as a poignant reminder of the platform’s vital contributions to national and global security, and the unwavering dedication of those who serve.

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, talks to members of XIII Squadron. HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, RAF Waddington’s Honorary Air Commodore, inspecting the parade celebrating the retirement of MQ-9A Reaper operations.

Flight commander: Flt Lt Freya Hinde. Members of XIII Squadron on parade. HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, the Honorary Air Commodore, at an official engagement at RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire, coinciding with the retirement of XIII Squadron’s MQ-9A Reaper operations.

XIII Squadron Reaper Out of Service parade inside of Hanger 5 (51 Squadron) at RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire. HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, the Honorary Air Commodore, at an official engagement, coinciding with the retirement of XIII Squadron’s MQ-9A Reaper operations. The visit underscores the Royal Family’s enduring connection to the Royal Air Force and marks a ceremonial milestone in the evolution of UK airpower. XIII Squadron concluded its final Reaper mission on 30 September 2025, drawing to a close 18 years of operational service across Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. The transition to the MQ-9B Protector RG1 reflects the RAF’s commitment to futureready, certified RPAS capabilities. RAF Waddington remains a strategic hub for ISTAR operations, heritage, and innovation.

Your local, proudly independent, veterinary practice opened in Waddington in 2022. Register and book online via our website, follow us on Facebook, call us or pop in to see us. Sarah, Alice and their friendly team look forward to welcoming you and your pets!

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Find us: Lincoln Edge Vets Ltd, The Quarry, Grantham Road, Waddington, Lincs, LN5 9NT

Monday 10am - 8pm

Tuesday 10am - 8pm

Wednesday 10am - 8pm

Thursday 10am - 8pm

Friday 10am - 6pm

Saturday

Sunday

Deployed Families Christmas Dinner

The Officers’ Mess was transformed into a place of warmth, laughter and festive cheer this Christmas, as the whole People & Families Support Team hosted a heart-warming Christmas Family dinner for families affected by deployment over the festive period.

Gp Capt Holland as the outgoing Stn Cdr, Gp Capt Warner, the new Stn Cdr and Wg Cdr Matterface welcomed our guests from RAF Waddington and RAF Coningsby with a festive drink.

Although the Officers’ Mess is normally utilised for formal dining, for this event it most definitely became a festive sight, with members of the RAF Waddington Voluntary Band playing carols and the tables set for a feast. The chefs and stewards volunteering for the event worked really hard behind the scenes to make sure the day was a success and to ensure everyone’s needs were catered for. Our thanks go out to them.

After lunch, families were treated to a magical performance from our magician, Mr Brian Hellyer; large hats and props were created from balloons and

card tricks dazzled the mind. Creativity also played a part; arts and crafts stations were set up allowing the children to make festive decorations and keepsakes.

BFBS joined us to record voice messages that would be sent to loved ones away, and the photographer was there to capture the families making memories.

No Christmas celebration would be complete without Santa Claus, and his arrival was met with pure delight. Santa took time to speak with every child, listen to their Christmas wishes and hand out gifts, ensuring each one felt special.

As the afternoon drew to a close, it was clear that this was more than just a Christmas lunch. It was a reminder of the power of community and the difference that compassion and support can make, especially during the festive season when

separation through duty can feel hard.

Thank you to everyone involved that made this special event happen.

ISTAR Force

The RAF’s ISTAR Force deployed nearly 100 people to Naval Air Station Fallon to support the Naval Aviation Warfare Development Centre’s Exercise Resolute Hunter.

Creech AFB has been home to RAF RPAS operators since its inception in Jan 2004 when No 1115 flight was formed at Creech AFB. Crews on 1115 Flt were embedded with the USAF 42nd Sqn and began the start of an 18 year journey, initially flying the General Atomics MQ-1 Predator as part of the Joint Predator Task Force.

This was quickly followed by conversion and training on the upgraded MQ-9A Reaper platform in 2006 with 39 Sqn reforming 1 Jan 2007 after a six month pause, seeing the Canberra out of service 28 July 2006.

The former No. 1115 Flight became 'A' Flight still operating the Predator, while 'B' Flight prepared to receive the Reaper aircraft. On 9 November 2007, the MOD announced that the 39 Squadron MQ-9 Reapers had begun operations in the Middle East with a new Sqn Standard issued to 39 on 23 January 2008.

This formed the foundation of what has gone on to be come one of the most operationally focused, demanding and successful periods in RAF service, supported by a groundbreaking platform which has continued to push the boundaries of technology ever since it entered service. In support of 39 Sqn, XIII Sqn was reformed on 20 Aug 2012 to form the UK based element of RPAS operations. Both XIII and 39 Sqn continued to

operate the platform on the front line for another 10 years, covering the conclusion of Op HERRICK and transition to Op SHADER. As pioneers of technology, innovation and agile operations, the Reaper Force led the development of new capabilities and novel ways to operate, including a satellite handover between the front-line Sqns allowing day and night operations from the UK and West Coast USA, with the ability to support from either location 24/7.

As the draw down of Reaper was announced with the RAF investing in its own codeveloped RPAS – Protector – the decision was taken to pool resource on XIII Sqn and disband 39 Sqn, which took place in July 2022. Most equipment was returned to RAF Waddington and continued to be utilised by XIII Sqn. The 39 Sqn site remained active as the Reaper Business Continuity Plan allowing continuation of operations, and was enacted on numerous occasions, proving a vital asset in the Reaper Force ability to deliver unbroken operational output, whatever the circumstances.

Reaper flew its final sortie 30 Sept 2025, with the Sqn immediately beginning its transition to Protector 1 Oct 25. With the retirement of the platform, and a new way of operating, the requirement for the Reaper BCP site at Creech AFB ceased to exist, and on 14 Jan 26, the Ensign that has flown on the site since 2007 was lowered after 18 years.

A poignant moment which marked the celebration of a relationship between UK and US RPAS operators spanning 19 years. Col Auger, the Dep Base Cdr, was presented with a Union Flag display featuring a number of RAF and RPAS patches. He was also issued a new RAF Ensign for safe keeping, with the hope that as the UK – US relationship continues, a return to Creech AFB by and RPAS unit in the future was not off the table…

Today, both the Union Flag and RAF Ensign from Creech

XIII

Exercise RESOLUTE HUNTER ensures that MISRs, ISR QWICs, and all participants maximise training benefit from the execution across electronic spectrum and domains. The focus on the intelligence cycle, through integration and synchronisation, to create fires and effects is unprecedented. It has ensured that operationally imperative lessons are identified, then countered so that a F2T2EA chain can be rapidly and reliably executed by a large mixed force.

AFB are on display on

Sqn.

Lincolnshire Emergency Medical ResponseServing the community beyond the uniform

The Media Communications Officer (MCO) from RAF Waddington recently had the opportunity to join Lincolnshire Emergency Medical Response (LEMR) for an observational shift, gaining first-hand insight into the extraordinary work carried out by the charity’s dedicated volunteers.

LEMR, a Lincolnshire-based emergency medical charity, was originally part of the national First Response organisation founded in 1998 by Scott Bateman MBE. After the loss of his father to cardiac arrest, Scott committed himself to improving access to advanced life support across rural areas. When the national scheme dissolved due to limited resources, a new Lincolnshire-focused charity was established on 19 April 2011, launching officially later that year as LEMR.

Today, LEMR is powered by around 45 volunteers, all of whom are serving or former Armed Forces personnel from RAF stations across the county, including RAF Waddington, RAF Cranwell, RAF Coningsby and RAF Digby. Together, they commit more than 18 hours each month to support East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) by responding rapidly to 999 calls when critical minutes matter most.

Operating from RAF Cranwell, the charity deploys two fully equipped Rapid Response Vehicles, both funded through public donations, grants, and Armed Forces Covenant support.

“ I have been Co-Responding for nearly 13 years, joining LEMR in 2013. 10 years of this with LEMR, 3 years with Co-Response at RAF Benson in the middle. I saw LEMR advertised on my station, and it drew my interest as something I may enjoy. From my very first shift observing with LEMR, I was hooked. I always enjoyed helping people in the community, but this went beyond that, I was making a true difference in people’s lives and the sense of wellbeing I gained from that was immeasurable. As I have continued with the scheme I have helped countless people in their greatest time of need, but not only that, this has been an adjunct for developing vital life skills as well as maintaining my own wellbeing.”

On arrival at incidents, responders assess patients, provide immediate care, and stabilise life-threatening conditions before handing over to EMAS frontline crews. Volunteers also continue to train to frontline standards, undertaking regular EMASdelivered courses to maintain their clinical competencies.

Beyond emergency response, LEMR members devote additional time to community outreach, ranging from CPR

- Sgt Kai Donnally, RAF Waddington

demonstrations in schools to fundraising activities across the county. As a nonprofit organisation, LEMR relies entirely on public donations and community support to maintain its lifesaving capability.

During the observational shift, the RAF Waddington MCO witnessed first-hand the professionalism, skill and community dedication that underpin LEMR’s mission. The experience highlighted

the charity’s vital role in enhancing emergency medical provision across Lincolnshire, as well as the significant contribution of Armed Forces personnel who volunteer their expertise beyond their military duties.

LEMR continues to embody its ethos of serving the community beyond the uniform, delivering rapid, compassionate, and highly skilled care to those who need it most.

“After spending time on shift and seeing the incredible work the team delivers to the community, I felt inspired to join the scheme myself. I have now completed the initial fiveday clinical course and am looking forward to starting my first mentored shifts. It is a privilege to contribute to such a dedicated organisation and help support the essential care LEMR provides across Lincolnshire.”

- Fg Off Charlotte Turner, RAF Waddington

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Local RAF Hero Retires After 35 Years of Distinguished Service

A local girl from the Forbes Estate in Warwick, WO Michelle Rees-Martin nee Martin), has retired as the Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington after an extraordinary 35 years of service of distinguished service in the Royal Air Force.

Aformer pupil of Westgate, Newburgh and Aylesford schools, WO ReesMartin’s journey from Warwick to the pinnacle of her RAF career is a remarkable story of dedication, professionalism, and inspiration. From her beginnings as a Logistics Supplier in March 1991, she rose through the ranks to become the Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington, one of the most prestigious roles in the RAF.

She has served at numerous stations across the UK and overseas, completing multiple detachments around the world, consistently demonstrating exceptional commitment and leadership.

Her career has been marked by significant achievements, including being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours List in 2024. This prestigious award was presented in recognition of her outstanding service to the Royal Air Force and her significant contributions to the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA).

She was further recognised in 2025 with the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal (MSM), awarded for good,

faithful, and meritorious service, with irreproachable character and conduct. The MSM is a rare honour, with only 60 awarded to RAF personnel annually.

WO Rees-Martin’s leadership and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the RAF and inspired countless colleagues throughout her career. From her roots in Warwick to her distinguished career in the RAF, WO Rees-Martin’s story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and excellence.

WO Rees-Martin has now settled in Lincoln with her husband Wyn (ex RAF Police). Their eldest son, Steffan, resides in London, while their youngest son, Corbyn, has followed in his parent’s footsteps and recently begun his own RAF journey at the Recruit Training Squadron at RAF Halton.

Reflecting on her career, WO Rees-Martin said:

"I am deeply honoured to have concluded my service career as the Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington. While I am extremely sad to leave, serving for 35 years has been an incredible journey, and this role has been a truly fantastic culmination to my career. I now look forward with great excitement to the opportunities and ventures that lie ahead. My roots will always lie with Warwick; my older brother Andrew is still in the area and lives with his wife Jeanette in Hampton Magner."

What do you hold onto?

Often at lunchtime circuits I find myself holding onto a solid surface gasping for breath on account of the Ski Erg.

The movement combination this piece of kit creates leaves me quite quickly needing to hold onto something to recover, and looking round the gym, I’m not the only one! Holding onto something solid when out of breath or feeling wobbly helps you to recover, and we each will find ourselves holding onto something which overtime becomes our “go to”. In which case it’s good to know that it really is as solid as it might appear. Over Christmas like many people, I rewatched Home Alone, where Kevin McCallister outwits the wet bandits as they try to force an entry to his home. Whether it’s a ladder with a half-sawn rung

or a rope which when pulled results in bricks landing on their heads, the wet bandits fail time and time again to hold onto something which is solid. The lesson, which these guys fail to learn, is that we need to test to see whether a support is strong enough to hold onto before we need it. The bible says to taste and see that the Lord is good. Just as those smash burger adverts which fill my Instagram feed look good, only by ordering Deliveroo from said takeaways truly prove to me how good they really are. Thankfully my most recent Deliveroo from Burg (Nottingham) did not disappoint… you’ll thank me for that recommendation!

Events at the Station Church: Mon – Craft Group, 1000 - 1200 Tue – Faith Explored, 1215 – 1300 Tue – Home Group (meeting in the Church), 1930 – 2100 Wed – Coffee and Conversation, 1000 – 1200 Wed – Midweek Communion, 1215 – 1245 Thu – Thrift Shop, 1000 – 1200 Fri – Gardening, 1000 – 1200 (seasonal, please contact for more information)

And likewise, I am confident to recommend faith in Jesus as a firm foundation to hold onto, through both the highs and lows life brings. Faith in Jesus begins with the choice to accept his help. Often without too much thought we reach out to hold onto something hoping it will be strong enough for whatever we’re faced with, which logically doesn’t make sense and could be quite dangerous. Bodge-it tape is versatile but was never designed to be a lasting repair and over time I’m sure we’ve all seen some inventive uses which really call into question whether the repair will hold. Slowing down and taking the time to examine the facts,

to look at the evidence, will prove whether something really is a good thing to hold onto when we need support both physically and spiritually. Jesus taught his followers to slow down and pray, a form of meditation, he began by teaching them to find a quiet place where they will be away from distractions. Stillness is a bit like a reset moment, remembering who we are, what we are capable of… and for me, that God is still in control. I wonder what you hold onto and what foundation gives you strength for the highs and lows life brings. Why not take a moment this week to give that some thought.

Every blessing… Padre Mike

wives’ choir…

from you too!

The Forces Recruiting website is a hub of useful information for service leavers and veterans.

Established in 2012 to assist service leavers and veterans find employment and training opportunities, it has since grown to also feature the following:

Recruitment

Resettlement Training

Elcas approved training providers

Directory of Boarding Schools for service parents

Armed Forces Charity Directory

Career Transition Partnership

CTP information

Franchising

Insurance