The official quarterly publication of Royal Air Force Benson
Expanding training and operations through innovation and technology
As a world-class training systems integrator, CAE offers comprehensive training solutions that support efficient and effective military aircrew training.
SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES
Articles for the Lion’s Roar should be submitted by email, written in Microsoft Word (preferably not the latest version format) and pictures should be sent as high quality original jpegs and attached as separate files, not embedded in the text or reduced in size.
From the Publishing Team
Editor's…
With 2025 a resounding success for both the Lion’s Roar and RAF Benson, we as an editing team maintain a clear direction for 2026.
This being the success and continuation of this vital piece of journalism, pieced together and completed by the reader. Whether this be an operational section on unit, or a civilian organisation wishing to spread word of their efforts within the community.
We truly welcome all stories, as they mean more having come from the person with boots on the ground, or any part to play in the operational output of our station.
With what will undoubtedly be a trying year moving forward, we can ensure to spread the news of all things Benson. As included in this quarter, we will show that whilst maintaining one of the highest turnouts for rotary wing training within the RAF, we can also take advantage of the opportunities that accompany our work.
These being opportunities for recreational sport, travel and knowing that every day you put in, can and will contribute to the ever-turning cog of the British military.
We would like to thank everyone who has submitted an article thus far and hope you enjoy our first edition of the magazine for 2026. Should you wish to submit a story, article or advertisement from your own respective area of responsibility; please send a completed article to the Lion’s Roar multiuser BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@ mod.gov.uk.
Please note that all articles need to be at least 500-700 words, we encourage photographic images to compliment your article and urge you to avoid the use of Military acronyms for the wider audience’s understanding.
Lion’s Roar – Capturing the voice and spirit of RAF Benson.
Sgt Rob Donnelly, WOSM Head Chef SNCO CSF Lion’s Roar Editor Cpl Pete Davidson, Duty Ops Controller Deputy Editor
Lion's Roar
PUBLISHER
Lion’s Roar is published by Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL
Tel: 01536 334223
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Jayne Bailey
Tel: 01536 334219
Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk
DESIGNER Amanda Robinson
PRINTER Micropress
ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND FEATURES TO… Email: BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@ mod.gov.uk
I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome you all back to your respective sections, I’m hoping you all have settled back into your roles and have already began preparing for what promises to be a busy and challenging year ahead for the station.
Foreword
Having already completed large scale planning/operating efforts such as Agile Warrior, it was a pleasure to operate alongside those taking part. Having witnessed first hand what we can achieve as a station, I am confident that we can tackle this year with a clear objective and utilise the momentum gained from such a successful force-wide exercise.
None of this however would be possible without the force development opportunities and chances for recreational activity; described in this edition of Lion’s Roar. We are truly lucky as a station to be dealt such a strong hand in terms of where we can go, what we can take part in and how much we can enjoy the camaraderie when with our peers.
We’ve started the year as we mean to go on, with a clear showcase of our ability to operate under trying environments. I’ve no doubt this will continue, and we will bring our best efforts every day we walk through the gates. This is the direction for 2026, an ever growing and improving RAF Benson.
Alice Tierney BSc(Hons) MA RAF, RAF Benson Station Commander
Lion’s Roar
Editorial Team
EDITOR
Sgt Donnelly
DEPUTY EDITOR
Cpl Pete Davidson
33 SQN REP
Flt Lt Toby Pay
28 SQN REP
AS1 Nicholas Simmons Ext: 7722
LS REP
Cpl James Halvin
EXPEDITION AND SPORTS REP
Post vacant
BSW REP
Post vacant
OPS WG REP
Post vacant
606 SQN REP
Sgt Jemma Holmes
JHSS REP Fg Off Qasim Haque
CATERING
Cpl Vivienne Buinimasi
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Meg Wickett
PHOTO AND IMAGERY REP
Sgt Lee Goddard
RAF BENEVOLENT FUND
Amy Latham
THAMES VALLEY AIR AMBULANCE
Rose Simpson
Ex GREAT GAN
Beyond the Surface: Leadership Refined in the Maldives
The Mission: A Golden Anniversary in the Indian Ocean
Ex GREAT GAN 26 was a highintensity Adventurous Training expedition with a profound historical purpose. While its primary goal was to test the mettle of Royal Air Force SCUBA divers, the exercise was specifically timed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the handover of RAF Gan to the Maldivian Government.
Returning to the Addu Atoll exactly five decades after the base was officially returned on 1st April 1976, the expedition served as a poignant tribute to the RAF’s legacy in the region. The exercise was marked with diplomatic engagement, including a formal meeting with the Maldivian Southern Area Command, representatives from the Ministry of Defence, and the Sri Lankan and Maldivian UK Defence Attaché.
The engagement underscored the enduring bond and mutual respect between the nations as we marked this half-century milestone. Highlighting the spirit of camaraderie, the Commander of the Maldivian Southern Area Command was presented with an RAF SCUBA polo shirt as a token of appreciation, symbolising the shared heritage and the continued friendship between forces.
Forging Resilience Beneath the Waves
FS Christopher Worrall – Instructor (DE SNCO Inst ACS, RAF Halton)
"Ex GREAT GAN provided an incredible example of what can be achieved on any RAF SCUBA diving expedition. The Maldives provided an exceptional blend of adventure and professional development, set against the backdrop of nutrient-rich waters and vibrant coral.
The expedition was carefully structured to maximise training value, offering significant instructor development opportunities. Beyond the standard syllabus, every participant undertook further rescue skills training to enhance
their ability to manage realistic emergency scenarios. Throughout the exercise, we remained mindful of our surroundings, conducting dives near the very waters that once supported the RAF's vital transport network."
"In my daily role within the CAMO at RAF Odiham, I focus on the continuing airworthiness of our Chinook fleet. Hearing about the 50th anniversary significance of Ex GREAT GAN shortly after arriving at Odiham, I knew I had to join ODISAC to be part of it!
The transition from PADI to the BSAC system was seamless. I moved from Ocean Diver to BSAC Sports Diver by the end of the week, practicing rescue techniques in the same area where RAF aircraft once landed. The marine life was spectacular; we were surrounded by turtles and manta rays and even had a close encounter with tiger sharks. This has been one of the most rewarding weeks of AT I have ever taken part in, building my resilience while connecting with the history of the Service."
Mastering the Lead
AS1(T) Sam Manley – Dive Leader Trainee (Blade Bay, RAF Odiham)
"I work in RAF Odiham’s Blade Bay, repairing Chinook Main Rotor Blades. On the second day of Ex GREAT GAN, I achieved a major career milestone, achieving my Dive Leader status. Although I’ve been on five previous diving expeditions, this was by far the most rewarding because of the historical context.
The diversity of life under the surface, from turtles to tiger sharks was unforgettable, but the real growth happened in the planning and leadership. As a new Dive Leader, supporting newly qualified personnel
significantly boosted my confidence. It was an honour to develop these skills on an island that holds such a deep place in RAF history, 50 years after the final handover."
The Debrief Ex GREAT GAN 26 successfully delivered on its promise of qualification progression and leadership growth. By leveraging the versatile environment of the Maldives and engaging with senior defence officials, the expedition reinforced that while the base has changed, the RAF's spirit of international partnership remains.
The technical success of the exercise was clear, with the team qualifying one Advanced Ocean Diver, four Sports
Divers, and one Dive Leader, while significantly building on Advanced Diver experience for the instructional staff.
WANT TO MAKE A SPLASH?
Join A Dive Club Near You! Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced diver looking to cross over to BSAC, RAF SCUBA offers the training and community to get you into the water.
• Location: Find out a club to join near you on the RAF SCUBA SharePoint.
• Who: All ranks and experience levels welcome.
• Contact: Contact your local POC via the SharePoint for more details on upcoming local dives and international expeditions.
Masterfloors
Ex Kukri Dawn –My Experience
Kukri Dawn has been one of those experiences where you don’t really grasp how significant it is until you’re properly in the thick of it.
From the outside, it’s easy to focus on the flying side, but being part of it showed me how much is going on behind the scenes to keep everything moving. Theres a constant flow of activity and everyone has a part to play in making sure things run when and where they need to.
Working as an Ops Specialist, we were the heartbeat behind the Chinook taskings, making sure bookings were in place, airspace was allocated, danger areas were accounted for, and the right fields were available. It’s one of those roles where if it’s done right, it all runs smoothly and no one really notices, but if somethings off, it’s felt straight away.
Day to day, it was full on. Things could change at short notice, so you must stay switched on and ready to adapt. Plans don’t stay fixed for long and that’s just the nature of
it. It keeps you on your toes, but it also builds that ability to just get on with it and adjust when needed.
What stood out the most was how everything links together. Different teams and different responsibilities all pushing towards the same goal. When it all lines up, you can see how much coordination is going on, and it gives you a real appreciation for the bigger picture.
There were moments where the pace picked up and
the pressure was on, but that’s where you learn the most.
To describe what an Ops Specialist is doing when the pace does pick up, our most time-consuming duty would be submitting the relevant air warnings for the airspace the crew wish to operate in. These warnings all need plotting and submitting to the equipment that is loaded into the Chinook cockpit. In short, the most we had to submit in one sitting was just below 80. All to be plotted in under 2 hours!
Despite the pressure, you begin trusting the process, trusting the people around you and just cracking on with what needs to be done.
Looking back, its bee a solid experience. It’s kept me busy, pushing me and given me a much better understanding of how these kinds of exercises run. It’s one of those things you’ll take forward without even realising it at the time.
Photo credit to Cpl McNamara, 51X media team
Ex Kukri Dawn
Bottomless
Op Teamwork Day
The recent 5K run held at RAF Benson offered a unique and memorable experience, bringing personnel together on the station’s runway for an event that combined fitness, morale, and camaraderie.
AS2 James Pool – Duty Ops Specialist
Running along an operational airfield is not something many people can say they have done, and the setting added a strong sense of pride and connection to the station’s purpose. Participants of all abilities took part, with the focus firmly on inclusion, encouragement, and collective achievement rather than competition alone. The event highlighted the importance of physical fitness within our roles while also reinforcing the value of shared experiences in strengthening team cohesion.
Alongside events like this, the continued development of our trade skills in operations remains essential as we look toward the future. The operational environment is constantly evolving, requiring adaptability, critical thinking, and a broader understanding of joint capabilities. By building on our current expertise—whether in planning, coordination, or execution—we are expanding our ability to operate effectively in increasingly complex scenarios. These skills are not only vital within our immediate roles but will also enhance interoperability across different units and specialisations, ensuring we remain agile and capable as demands change.
Complementing both the run and our professional development, the teambuilding exercises conducted on the low ropes course and during orienteering activities proved invaluable. The low ropes challenged individuals to trust one another, communicate clearly, and solve problems collaboratively under pressure.
Meanwhile, orienteering required teams to demonstrate leadership, decision-making, and situational awareness in a dynamic outdoor environment. These exercises mirrored many of the challenges faced in operational settings, where success depends on clear leadership, mutual support, and the ability to adapt quickly.
Overall, the combination of physical activity, professional reflection, and practical team-building created a wellrounded and highly beneficial experience. Events like these not only improve individual resilience and fitness but also strengthen the collective capability of the team, ensuring we are better prepared for future operational challenges.
info@chequers-garagedidcot.co.uk
Local Cadets See Benson from the Frontline
Spending a day at RAF Benson was honestly one of the coolest things I’ve ever done, and I’m not just saying that because we got to see helicopters up close.
cadet H Patel:
The day started in the 606 Squadron Briefing Room where they welcomed us and told us a bit about the base’s history. Then we went up to the Air Traffic Control tower, which was way higher than I expected, and learned how they do the talk down and keep track of planes all over the UK. We even tried a simulator where we had to help a plane land. It was very confusing. We watched a Chinook take off and land, and you could feel the wind from the propellers. After that, we went outside and saw the Defence Fire and Rescue truck. We also sprayed the hose and went in the front and learnt about the buttons. We then sprayed the hose on the front. It was like an elephant.
In the Fire House, we saw where the firefighters hang out
during rest periods, learned about their crazy routines, and got to try on some of their gear. We had lunch and then we watched a long video about SERE training.
The best part for me was sitting in the Chinook pilot seat. There were so many buttons and switches, I have no clue how pilots remember what everything does! We then took part in a team challenge and hooked up 2 barrels in a cargo net to then get lifted up on a winch which is the same as when they go onto the chinooks and then checked out some quads and small aircraft.
By the end of the day, I honestly felt tired but mostly I just wanted to come back and do it all again.
Thank you to Flight Lieutenant McDonald for letting us visit the air base.
Darts: A Defence-Recognised Sport
In 2025, darts was formally recognised as a Defence sport, marking a significant milestone for a game that has long been played informally across military units. This recognition places darts alongside other established Defence sports, acknowledging not only its competitive credibility but also its value in promoting wellbeing, inclusivity, and unit cohesion. Defence recognition provides a structured framework for competition, governance, and development, allowing personnel to represent their units, Services, and Defence in organised leagues and fixtures.
Darts’ accessibility—open to all ages, ranks, and physical abilities, and requiring minimal equipment—was central to its adoption, making it one of the most inclusive sports available across Defence.
The RAF Darts Association
The RAF Darts Association (RAFDA) oversees darts within the Royal Air Force, providing governance, coordination, and support to stations and units. The Association assists in establishing clubs, organising fixtures, and developing players at all levels, from casual participation through to competitive representation.
RAFDA also coordinates RAF involvement in Service and Defence competitions, ensuring a consistent and competitive presence across the darts calendar. Alongside performance, the Association places strong emphasis on participation, sportsmanship, and accessibility, promoting darts as both a competitive outlet and a positive contributor to morale and station life. The Association has also played a key role in supporting new clubs. A significant contribution has come from Winmau, who— through RAF Darts—provided the equipment required to get clubs up and running, including boards and associated equipment. This support has enabled stations such as RAF Benson to establish a fully equipped darts club from the outset.
Benson Flight Club – RAF
Benson Darts Club
Against this backdrop, RAF Benson’s Darts Club, the Benson Flight Club, has quickly established itself within the RAF darts community. The club has already commenced participation in the RAF Winter League, a competitive league comprising 13 units across a 12-match season. Each fixture follows a structured format of
six singles matches and three doubles, testing both individual ability and team cohesion.
On station, the Benson Flight Club plays out of the Junior Ranks Lounge every Tuesday between 1900-2100hrs. Sessions provide a relaxed but competitive environment, supporting both training and match preparation. The club is open to all ranks and all abilities, with no prior experience required. New players are encouraged to attend, learn, and develop at their own pace alongside more experienced participants.
The Benson Flight Club has become a positive addition to station life, offering a regular mid-week opportunity to socialise and compete. With Defence recognition, support from the RAF Darts Association, participation in the RAF Winter League, and industry backing from Winmau, the club is well placed to continue developing and representing RAF Benson.
RAF Darts Championships
Four personnel from Benson will be representing the station at the inaugural RAF Darts Championships, being held at RAF Cosford on 28 May 26.
The first-ever championships event will bring together players
from across the Service, marking an important milestone for RAF Darts and providing an opportunity to showcase talent, sportsmanship and station pride. Benson’s representatives have been training hard in preparation and are looking forward to competing against strong opposition.
Best of luck to the team as they head to Cosford to fly the flag for RAF Benson.
Personnel interested in getting involved are encouraged to make contact or attend a
More Than Just Childcare
High-quality sports and activity provision for children across Oxfordshire & Warwickshire.
Holiday Camps
Burford | Warwick | Kitebrook
Running every school holiday 8:00–17:30, our camps offer flexible childcare filled with sport, games and creative activities. Kitebrook camps also run during extended private school holidays.
Primary Schools & 1:1 Sports and SEND Coaching
We deliver engaging primary school sports sessions, as well as personalised 1:1 and SEND coaching, supporting children of all abilities in a safe, positive environment.
• Qualified and experienced coaching team
• Fully DBS checked staff
• Paediatric first aid trained
• Safe, supportive environments Why choose Just Camps? https://www.justcamps.co.uk/
Just Camps — helping children feel confident, active and supported.
Just Camps delivers high-quality sports and activity provision for children across Oxfordshire and Warwickshire, supporting families during school holidays, term time and beyond.
Holiday camps run throughout the school holidays, offering reliable, flexible childcare in a safe and supportive environment. Children take part in a wide range of sports, games and creative activities, leaving camps happier, more confident and eager to return.
Alongside holiday provision, Just Camps works closely with local primary schools to deliver engaging sports sessions that develop coordination, teamwork and confidence. An inclusive approach ensures every child feels supported and involved, regardless of ability or experience.
Just Camps also offers one-to-one sports coaching, including specialist SEND support. These calm, structured and child-led sessions are tailored to individual needs, allowing children to progress at their own pace in a positive and encouraging setting.
Just Camps is known for its extended family feel. Children are welcomed, encouraged and valued, while parents trust that their children are in capable, caring hands. We are proudly community-driven, building strong relationships with families and schools to create positive, lasting experiences.
Whether it’s a school holiday camp, a school sports session or individual coaching, Just Camps provides a place where children feel confident, active and supported, every step of the way.
Junior Ranks Mess
RAF Benson has marked the completion of the refurbishment of its Junior Ranks Mess (JRM) dining room and servery area, following its recent official opening. Delivered as part of the Army Restaurant Programme (ARP), the project goes beyond a simple infrastructure upgrade, demonstrating the Defence Catering Strategy (DCS) ongoing commitment to enhancing the everyday lived experience, wellbeing, and morale of personnel across the Whole Force.
The refurbishment marks the culmination of several years of planning and close collaboration between Army Basing Infrastructure, Regional Command, and Station stakeholders. As one of the final Land-funded projects delivered at RAF Benson, the completed JRM stands as both a celebration of progress and a
testament to effective crossorganisation teamwork. At the heart of the project was a clear ambition: to create a welcoming, contemporary, and practical space that supports not only dining, but also relaxation, social connection, and downtime for JRs. Thanks to ARP investment, the JRM has undergone a complete transformation, balancing modern design with everyday functionality.
Key enhancements include new versatile furniture offering, booths and a variety of seating options to suit both social dining and quieter moments. Upgraded lighting and acoustic ceiling panels to improve comfort and reduce noise, brand-new flooring throughout, and a redesigned servery featuring new catering equipment with distinctive tiling. Together, these improvements have created a bright, modern environment
that reflects the standards and expectations of today’s Service personnel (SP).
The successful delivery of the refurbishment was made possible through strong collaboration between RC Infra RIC, Work Services Flight, Regional Command, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) project
team, Vinci, Sodexo, and RAF Benson Catering Support Flight. Each played a vital role in ensuring the project met operational requirements while delivering a high-quality and enduring result. RAF Benson has expressed sincere gratitude to the Army for its continued support, particularly as this refurbishment represents one of the final Land-funded projects on the station. The completed JRM stands as a legacy of that partnership.
The official opening ceremony took place on Mon 12 Jan, with the Stn Cdr welcoming invited guests into the newly refurbished JRM. Lt Col Richard Harris was also in attendance to represent Regional Command, alongside other invited guests from Stn, DIO and Vinci. Refreshments provided by Sodexo allowed attendees to experience the upgraded Front of House environment first-hand.
The reopening of the JRM is more than a facilities upgrade. It is a clear demonstration of the DCS in action. Delivering tangible improvements that positively impact daily life for SP. Through investment in modern, welcoming environments and recognition of the people behind them, RAF Benson continues to foster a strong sense of community, wellbeing, and pride.
A Day Inside History Visiting the Tower of London
On the 09 Jan 26 5 members of Catering Support Flt visited the Tower of London as part of a section FD event. Departing Cholsey train station on a cold Jan morning bound to London Paddington full of expectation and excitement at the privilege of seeing one of England's oldest historical sites.
Arriving in London slightly earlier than planned, we were quickly swept up in the familiar rhythm of the capital. Joining the daily hustle and bustle of commuters, we headed to the underground bound for Tower Hill. A spontaneous change of plan saw us disembark at the Embankment tube stop instead, choosing to continue our journey on foot.
Walking along the banks of the Thames, the city gradually unfolded around us. Historic landmarks set against the steady movement of modern London. After what felt like a long but rewarding stroll, we paused to explore Borough Market, immersing ourselves in its vibrant atmosphere. The air was rich with the aromas of street food, and the sounds of traders and visitors filled the space, offering a sensory snapshot of local and international flavours brought together in one iconic setting.
Continuing our odyssey through London, not being deterred by the down pour of rain and ice like wind, we crossed the legendary Tower Bridge arriving at the Tower of London as per our schedule. Stepping through the ancient stone walls felt less like entering a tourist attraction and more like crossing into another century. Set against the modern skyline of the city, the fortress stands as a powerful reminder of
England's turbulent past; Part royal palace, part prison, and part execution grounds.
The visit began in the White Tower, originally built as a castle this later became known as the Tower of London.
Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, its thick walls, and narrow staircases immediately convey a sense of authority and intimidation inside. Displays of arms and armoury chart centuries of warfare, from medieval swords to elaborate suits used and worn by former British Kings.
One of the most captivating elements of the Tower is the presence of the Yeoman Warders, more commonly known as Beefeaters. We were very lucky to meet Emma Roussell, once a Benson Cat Flt Aviator, who is now proudly serving as the first female from the RAF as a Yeoman Warder. Emma served for over 32 years in the RAF, building a reputation as a passionate senior catering manager and chef. Her commitment and professionalism to the RAF was outstanding. It was a particularly proud moments to witness this former Warrant Officer standing alongside our current Warrant Officer, Dave Sandilands - a powerful symbol of continuity, dedication and the enduring standards that define the organisation.
After a memorable reunion with Emma, we made our way to the Jewel House. This secure, purpose-built, and modern exhibition space has housed the priceless collection of royal regalia under armed guard since 1994, with the collection having been stored at the Tower since 1661.
It was amazing to see all the priceless jewels, crowns and historical artifacts that depicts Britain’s history; the most famous being the crown of St Edward. This centre piece was
commissioned for King Charles II to replace a medieval crown destroyed in 1649. It is made of solid gold, weighs over 2kg and is adorned with 444 precious stones. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take any photos of the crown.
By the end of the day, we left inspired by everything we had seen and learned. Within the ancient stone
walls of England’s most iconic historical landmark, centuries of history felt vividly alive, standing in striking contrast to the modern city that surrounds it. The Tower of London offered a truly breathtaking experience-one that leaves a lasting impression and comes highly recommended to anyone with an interest in history, heritage, or the stories that have shaped our nation.
UK Boarding School Exhibitions
Meet leading UK boarding schools and receive free help & advice from our education consultants
Friday 20 March 2026, 13.30–17.30
Garrison Theatre, Tidworth
Wednesday 20 May 2026, 13.30–17.30 The Garretts Clubhouse, Aldershot
Wednesday 23 September 2026, 13.30–17.30
Garrison Theatre, Tidworth
Contact our Forces expert Jen for more information: Email: jen@andersoneducation.co.uk WhatsApp/mobile: +44 (0) 7442 222075
RAF Benson People & Families Support Team Easter Events
During the Easter school holiday period, the RAF Benson People & Families Support Team organised several free Easter themed events for our Service families to enjoy and get involved with, starting off with an Easter Egg Hunt on the 1st April which was set out around the perimeter of the sports pitch. With over 80 children and their parents signed up for this event, a whole morning of entertainment was had by all that attended and lots of chocolate was enjoyed by the children. With special thanks to the RAF Benson Pinnacle Service Families Housing Officer for providing the chocolate lollies and chocolate bunnies for this event, it was greatly appreciated.
We started off our second week of the Easter holidays with another free craft event to celebrate the Month of the Military Child which is
celebrated each April and recognises and honours the strength, resilience, and unique sacrifices of our children in military families. It highlights their experiences with frequent relocations, parental deployments, and emotional challenges, ensuring they feel seen, valued, and supported by their communities. With over 46 children and their parents signed up for this event, which was held in the station church it was a very busy session and enjoyed by all the families who attended. One of our service parents made the following comment “This event has truly touched my heart – it was such a wonderful experience. Thank you”. With a special thank you to the BFBS Team, this was followed by a visit to the BFBS ice-cream van for a well-earned ice-cream which was enjoyed not only be our service families but service personnel, civil servants & contractors on station.
Our last session was held on the 9th April where the Vivo Community Engagement and Nurture Team funded a wellattended and engaging Easter flower basket workshop. A session was delivered to 30 parents and children, each of whom received an Easter flower basket containing five plants. The workshops brought together spouses, families
and service personnel, creating a relaxed and enjoyable environment where participants learned about the plants they were using before designing and assembling their own baskets to take home. The sessions were warmly received, with families asking if more events like these could be held in the future.
Operation Clockwork: My Experience in Arctic Norway
Spending over four months in Norway on Operation Clockwork was one of the most challenging and rewarding deployments of my career. As the UK Commando Helicopter Force’s annual cold-weather training exercise, the operation is designed to prepare personnel for extreme Arctic conditions— something I quickly came to appreciate firsthand.
I arrived in Bardufoss on the 10th of November and went straight into the Cold Weather All Arms Course (CWAOC), an intensive 8–10 day package designed to teach the fundamentals of survival and operating effectively in sub-zero environments. The course began with two to three days of classroom-based theory, covering everything from cold-weather injuries to survival techniques. This was followed by five nights out in the field, where the real learning began.
Living and working in those conditions required rapid teamwork and efficiency. The biggest challenge was, without question, the weather. In the Arctic, conditions can change in an instant, turning even
the simplest tasks into major obstacles. Something as routine as cooking could become a struggle—more than once, the valve on the cooker froze solid, making it impossible to light. It forced us to think differently, adapt quickly, and rely on each other.
During the field phase, we completed two nights in a tactical scenario, protecting a harbour, followed by a night focused purely on survival. Without tents, we had to construct a quinzhee—a snow shelter—and carefully manage a candle for heat and safety throughout the night. The course concluded with icebreaker drills, including full cold-water immersion. We had to demonstrate that we could get ourselves out of freezing water unassisted, a test that pushed both physical and mental resilience.
After successfully passing CWAOC, I moved on to snow and ice driving training. This was essential for my role as a Real Life Support (RLS) Enabler Driver. The course taught critical vehicle handling skills in extreme conditions, ensuring we could
operate safely and effectively on snow-covered and icy terrain. Following this, I completed the BV White Shod course, building on skills I had previously learned in the UK. This training focused on operating tracked vehicles in deep snow and freezing temperatures—changing a track in three feet of snow is something I won’t forget anytime soon.
We were fortunate to return to the UK over the Christmas period, which gave me time to reset before heading back
out better prepared for the operational phase. Once back in Norway, I took on my primary role as an RLS Driver, mainly supporting the CWAOC courses but also assisting with wider logistical tasks such as moving freight and personnel across the area.
Despite the challenges, the experience was incredibly rewarding. The lack of sunlight during the winter months took some getting used to, but the Northern Lights more than made up for it. Watching
AS1 Tonia Green 606 (Chiltern) Squadron RAuxAF
them dance across the sky was something I’ll never forget.
There were also opportunities to take part in Adventurous Training, which added another dimension to the deployment. Skiing, snowboarding, boat trips, and visits to places like Tromsø and Narvik gave us a chance to experience Norway beyond the training environment.
Overall, Operation Clockwork was an unforgettable experience. It tested me physically and mentally, pushed me out of my comfort zone, and developed skills that I know will stay with me throughout my career. If the opportunity comes up again, I would take it without hesitation—and I would strongly recommend it to anyone considering it.
Would you like to support those feeling socially isolated or lonely? Could you spare a few hours a week to organise fun group activities that bring people within the Forces community together?
If so, we’d love to hear from you! You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just a desire to support the serving community.
To register your interest or find out more, email: sct.interest@ssafa.org.uk
HIVE/COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT – The HIVE Information Officer,
Janine Ansty-Bridges and Community Development Officer, Meg Wickett are located in the Community Centre where a warm welcome awaits you.
If you would like to contact either of us, please email Janine. Ansty-Bridges263@mod.gov. uk or call 01491 827213 or meg. wickett407@mod.gov.uk
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Welcome to RAF Benson – Are you newly posted into station and want to meet the Station Community Support Team?
COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM
Community Support Officer
Meg Wickett
BEN-BSW-CDO@mod.gov.uk
Station Community Support Officer
WO Phil Withey
BEN-BSW-SCSO@mod.gov.uk
Padre 1
Revd (Sqn Ldr) Michael McCormick michael.mccormick@mod.gov.uk
Duty mobile: 07815 697116
Padre 2
Revd (Sqn Ldr) Rachel Cook rachel.cook@mod.gov.uk
Duty mobile: 07815 697116
Chaplaincy Clk
Mrs Sharon Waters sharon.waters934@mod.gov.uk
Stn Youth Worker
Kayleigh Crawley
Kayleigh.Crawley@oneymca.org
Personal and Family
Support Worker
Deborah Wise
Deborah.wise@ssafa.org.uk
Personal and Family
Support Worker
Faye Grant Faye.grant@ssafa.org.uk
Why not pop into the HIVE Office for coffee and chat on the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 1030 – 1130. We look forward to meeting you soon.
WEEKLY CLINICS
Mortgage Advice Clinic –Appointments held fortnightly on Thursdays with representatives of Lexion Financial Services.
Solicitor Clinic - Appointments held every alternate Wednesdays with Richard Rodway from the Head Partnership in Henley.
Leanne Wheeler
Leanne.Wheeler@ssafa-fhs-org.uk
mobile Office hours only: 07384 237984
Welfare Administrator
Kathy Porat
Kathy.porat@ssafa.org.uk
Social Work Team Lead
Amy Suttling
Amy.suttling@ssafa.org.uk
Social Work
Regional Manager
Joanne Harper
Joanne.harper@ssafa.org.uk
WELCOME TO RAF BENSON GATHERING
Are you newly arrived into station and want to meet the Station Community Support Team? Why not pop along to the Common Room, right hand side of the Shuttleworth Mess for a free coffee and followed by a windscreen tour of the Station. Open to everyone.
The Community Support Team will be there every 1st Wednesday of every month from 1000 – 1130. We look forward to meeting you all soon.
To book an appointment, please contact the Community Development Officer on Ext 7213 or email: BEN-BSW-CDO@mod.gov.uk
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
WEEKLY PLANNER
Stn Church Morning Prayer every Mon – Fri 0830 – 0900 For more information email: BENBSW-Chaplaincy@mod.gov.uk
PLAYGROUPS
Little Cherubs Structured Playgroup
Sessions run every Monday & Thursday morning from 0930 – 1100 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre.
Baby Active Group
Session held every Wednesday morning in the Stn Church from 0930 – 1030. Open to all parents with babies under 12 months or crawling.
Health Visitors Clinic
The Millstream Health Visitors visit station on the 4th Wednesday of every month for a baby weigh in clinic in the soft play area at the Community Centre from 1330 – 1430.
AIRPLAY GROUPS
Ben Club
Session run every Tuesday from 1600 – 1730 for children aged 5 – 8 years.
Inters Youth Club
Session runs every Tuesday 1800 – 2000 for children aged 12+
Airplay Juniors
Session runs every Wednesday from 1730 – 1900 for children aged 8 – 10 years.
Airplay Seniors
Session runs every Wednesday from 1900 – 2030.
For more information regarding these groups, email: Kayleigh. Crawley@oneymca.org
SCOUTING GROUPS
Cubs
Group runs every Monday from 1830 -2000 for children aged 8 – 10.5 years.
Beavers
Group runs every Tuesday from 1800 – 1930 for children aged 6 – 8 years.
WEEKLY CLINICS
Mortgage Advice Clinic Appointments held fortnightly on Thursdays with representatives of Lexion Financial Services.
Solicitor Clinic Appointments held every alternate Wednesdays with Richard Rodway from the Head Partnership in Henley.
To book an appointment, please contact the HIVE Information Officer on Ext 7213 or email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk
Scouts
Group runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 2030 for children aged 10.5 – 14 years.
Explorers
Group runs every Friday from 1900 –2100 for children aged 14 – 18 years.
For more information about scouting, email: Raf-benson@ thameschilternscouts.org.uk
Opening times and days will be advertised on the RAF Benson Community Facebook page due to volunteers opening the shop. For more information email: Simon.Bird869@mod.gov.uk
