One to One - Winter 2022

onetoone

We are a friendly, happy little school where children are ‘firmly at the centre of all that takes place.’ (Ofsted 2018). We are very proud of the rich educational experiences we provide for our children, including excellent music and sporting opportunities.

small We are a friendly, happy small school where children are ‘firmly at the centre of all that takes place.’ (Ofsted 2018) We are very proud of the rich educational experiences we provide for our children, including excellent music and sporting opportunities.

Our intent is to ‘grow curious, knowledgeable and happy, lifelong learners. Our school values are the golden threads of our broad and exciting curriuclum: Respect, Honesty, Forgiveness, Kindness and Teamwork.

We have very close links with the local community, including our RAF family. Tattershall Primary is a community school in the heart of the village, with 50% of our intake being RAF children. In addition to excellent teaching, outstanding behaviour and an ethos built on mutual respect, our safe and secure learning environment also includes:

We have very close links with the local community, including our RAF family. Tattershall Primary is a community school in the heart of the village, with 40% of our intake being RAF children.

Small infant class sizes with no more than 20 children

40% 25

In addition to excellent teaching, outstanding behaviour and an ethos built on mutual respect. Our safe and secure learning environment also includes:

A buddy system for all new children

Very supportive parents

Children enter school full-time on their first day

• Small infant class sizes with no more than 21 children

• A buddy system for all new children

Bluey lunchtime club for children with deployed parents

• Very supportive parents who we welcome into school for events

• Children enter school full-time on their first day

• Bluey lunchtime club for children with deploayed parents

Outstanding sporting opportunities for all children across the school, including a wide range of after school clubs

learn together, work together, succeed together

Nationally recognised music provision, including the opportunity for every child to play an instrument free of charge!

• Outstanding sporting opportunities for all children across the school. Including a wide range of after school clubs

• Early Years, Phonics, KS1 and KS2 results of which we are proud

Above National Early years, phonics, KS1 and KS2 results.

• Ranked in the top 5 schools in Lincolnshire for pupil progress (top 3% Nationally)

• Motivated, happy children who are consistently taught by dedicated, knowlwdgeable and hardworking staff

• Outstanding safeguarding and pastoral care

Ranked in the top 5 schools in Lincolnshire for pupil progress (top 3% Nationally) Motivated, happy children who are consistently taught by dedicated, knowledgeable and hardworking staff

Outstanding safeguarding and pastoral care

Don’t just take our word for it! Come and experience what #teamTattershall has to offer.

Don’t just take our word for it! Come and experience what #TeamTattershall has to offer.

We are a small village primary school with enthusiastic and committed staff, all prepared to ‘go the extra mile’ to provide a learning experience that your child will enjoy and remember.

Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted 2016

Breakfast Club available from 8am every day

Book an appointment with the office staff, or just pop along for a tour of the school.

Book and appointment with the office staff, or just pop along for a tour of the school.

‘Children make good progress and behave well’ Ofsted 2016

Visitors are welcome, please contact us on 01507 568304 www.mareham.lincs.sch.uk

Stn Cdr’s Foreword

Gp Capt Billy Cooper MA BA(Hons) RAF

HELLO EVERYBODY AND IT IS THAT TIME OF YEAR WHEN WE TURN OUR ATTENTION TO SPENDING TIME WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY AS WELL AS REFLECTING ON THE LAST 12 MONTHS.

Of course, we also need to recognise that a significant number of us are deployed overseas for Christmas, and some will be maintaining the essential defence of UK airspace from home-base. This last quarter has been no less busy than any other, and although both 3(F) and XI(F) Sqns are at home right now, both those squadrons have made a significant contribution to enduring operations in Iraq and Syria as well as NATO’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

12 Sqn remains in the Persian Gulf, assisting Qatar with policing the skies over the FIFA World Cup, although many of the Sqn are planned to be home for Christmas. In September, a large number of Station personnel were deployed to London and other locations in support of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Clearly very humbling work that was counterpointed recently in November by the visit of Prince William, the Prince of Wales as our Honorary Air Commandant. 41 and 29 Sqns continue their

essential work on testing new equipment and training the front line of the future, the Air Land Integration Cell has support myriad exercises and as I write has personnel deployed in the Middle East.

I am also immensely impressed by the scale of extracurricular activities that go on around the Station, from sport to the bushcraft course. This activity is even more impressive given the level of demand from people’s primary roles. This is also coupled with the fantastic charity work that raises such crucial funding for those who support military families. BBMF has ended another stellar season, ensuring none of us forget the sacrifice made by our forebears and the freedom and security we enjoy today, as so many around the world still struggle for theirs.

I also don’t lose sight of the fact this magazine is published after my first couple of months in command and I’d like to thank my predecessor, Gp Capt Matt Peterson, for leaving the Station in such rude health. I want to thank all personnel at RAF Coningsby for their incredible work ethic and professionalism, and also the families and local community who support the Station so magnificently, RAF Coningsby is a special place but only so as a result of the incredible people who live and work here. I raise a mince pie to you all – Merry Christmas and a very prosperous 2023!

Editorial & Distribution Team

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Editor

Flt Lt Alex Milne

Deputy Editor

Flt Lt Alex Wall

Distribution AS1(T) Andrew Green

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06

onetoone

the Editor

Flt Lt Alex Milne

You can read about our great initiatives across Station, be that the new Bushcraft course on page 9 where our personnel are challenged to learn ‘Ray Mears’ skills or our Charity Runway Dash on page 20 starring our 10 year old Marshall of the RAF! A special shout out goes to the Women’s Football Team who smashed it in a recent Festival of Football tournament, you can read all their successes on page 18. Of course, our Sqns have been no less busy in the past quarter too, from 12 Sqn preparing for assisting the Qatar for the World Cup, to BBMF honouring and celebrating our veterans and supporters.

CONTENTS

BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL FLIGHT

A selection of events to celebrate the Battle of Britain.

09 BUSHCRAFT COMES TO CONINGSBY

Three day Force Development, bushcraft Course.

10 12 SQN

Preparations have been intensifying for 12 Sqn’s winter deployment to Qatar, and for the Qatar Emiri Air Force’s (QEAF) standing up of their own Typhoon Wing.

11 611 SQUADRON JOINS NEW WAR MEMORIAL UNVEILING IN THE NORTH WEST

Southport-based 611 Squadron joined forces with dignitaries and other representatives from the North West for the unveiling of a new war memorial.

13 29 SQN, A FOND FAREWELL AND A BIG WELCOME

A big thank you to its outgoing Officer Commanding, Wg Cdr J Calvert, and welcome his successor, Wg Cdr A Shaw. Personnel.

14 41 SQN

A busy few months for 41 Sqn with lots of change.

15 AIR LAND INTEGRATION CELL

Air Land Integration Cell has undertaken many more exercises and operational deployments. So what exactly has the 37-strong Cell been up to?

15 PRINCE WILLIAM VISITSRAF CONINGSBY

On November 18th we were honoured with a visit from His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales. Our photographers were on hand to capture the excitement.

17

RAF CONINGSBY SUPPORTS HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S FUNERAL

Several operations were called in order to best support the State’s official period of mourning and funeral arrangements.

18 FESTIVAL OF FOOTBALL, WINNING SUCCESS

As we’ve bid a fond farewell to Gp Capt Peterson, we give a warm welcome our new Stn Cdr, Gp Capt Cooper, as well as several new Execs across the Station, who I’m sure will all continue to be impressed with the amazing personnel, families and community that make RAF Coningsby.

A final big thanks to the team at Lance Media, Amanda and Rowena, for helping bring onetoone magazine together for this issue and over the year. I hope you all enjoy catching up on what we’ve been up to, and I look forward to bringing you more news from RAF Coningsby in 2023. But for now, have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

In October 2022, RAF Coningsby Women’s Football team took part in the 5-a-side Festival of Football tournament.

20 RAF CONINGSBY CHARITY COMMITTEE, TAXIWAY DASH

The Station Charity Committee’s aim is to hold four main events each year with this year’s chosen charities being SSAFA and RAFBF.

from

BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL FLIGHT

BBMF visit Ireland for the Irish Air Corp 100th Anniversary.

In July, the BBMF took part in a very special visit to Ireland to take part in events planned for the 100th anniversary of the Irish Air Corps.

Arriving in Ireland despite troublesome weather on UK soil, the BBMF Lancaster and Hawker Hurricane were met in the skies above Dublin by the Silver Swallows Aerobatic Display Team, flying in an iconic formation over the River Liffey.

Upon arrival into Casement Aerodrome, 103-year-old war veteran Group Captain John “Paddy” Hemingway, the sole surviving member of “The Few”, was reunited with the Hawker Hurricane – his office during the Summer of 1940. Speaking about the events in Ireland and of meeting Paddy, OC BBMF Sqn Ldr Mark Sugden said “To meet any veteran is an honour, but to reacquaint Paddy with his beloved Hurricane and “his office” was one of those moments I will never forget. Arriving in the Republic of Ireland, greeted by the Silver Swallows, was an incredible moment and a BBMF first. The centenary celebrations and meeting a national treasure will always be a standout moment during my time on BBMF.”

BBMF Annual Members Day.

On Saturday 1st October, the BBMF ended the 2022 display season with their annual Members Day event. The event is a way to thank members of the Lincolnshire Lancaster Association and the Memorial Flight Official Club for their invaluable support to the flight and its activities.

The event was attended by over 2500 members, who were treated to static displays of the Flights aircraft as well as the Typhoon Display Jet and a Mustang from Rolls-Royce. The 2 and a half hour flying display included the iconic

Spitfire and Typhoon combination, followed by a Typhoon Display by 2022 Display Pilot Flt Lt Adam “Paddy” O’Hare. The BBMF’s 2022 displays wowed the crowds and included a thrilling Tailchase by the Spitfire and Hurricane, and the Rolls-Royce Mustang and Spitfire also performed displays. On the ground, there were also classic car displays and 20 exhibitor stands showcasing everything from the Flights new Spitfire Simulator to sales of classic art and aircraft memorabilia. A fantastic day was had by all, and the event has been heralded a complete success!

BBMF PR Team attend 13 Events during the 2022 Display Season.

During the 2022 display season, our team of dedicated volunteers from various roles around the RAF attended 13 events around the UK. This included major air shows such as RIAT, Eastbourne and Bournemouth as well as supporting local events such as the Woodhall Spa 1940’s Festival. They also attended educational events such as the STEAM event for 10,000 children at Thorpe Park. Every member of our PR team has an exceptional work ethic, and their passion for the Flight and our historic aircraft shows with their dedication seeing them travel the length of the country and working extremely long days to provide the public face of BBMF. The flight cannot thank our volunteers enough for everything they do throughout each display season!

BBMF Personnel join George Dunn to celebrate his 100th Birthday.

This year, World War 2 bomber pilot and veteran, George Dunn, turned 100 years old. Personnel from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight were honoured to be able to celebrate his special day with him at a birthday party organised in his home village of Rottingdean, Brighton.

The Flight’s Admin Officer Diane Law-Crookes spoke of the BBMF’s relationship with George, saying “It is always wonderful to catch up with our good

RAF

time on Members Day.

The BBMF Annual Members’ Day was a resounding success this year, but the day was also tinged with an element of sadness as it marked the final flight both with BBMF and in the RAF for Station Commander Group Captain Matthew Peterson, and the final flight with the BBMF for Bomber Pilot Flight Lieutenant Neil “Faz” Farrell.

friend George, but to be able to celebrate his 100th birthday with him was a very special event and it meant a great deal to us all to be invited along”.

The BBMF have a very special relationship with George, who regularly visits the flight. He has held numerous talks for personnel at RAF Coningsby and attends our veterans’ events. He also joined our PR team at Eastbourne Airshow this year, where he enjoyed the Spitfire display flown by OC BBMF, Sqn Ldr Mark Sugden and took part in our Virtual Reality Lancaster experience.

Upon departing their respective aircraft for the final time, both Gp Cpt Peterson and Flt Lt Farrell were greeted by their families, OC BBMF, fellow BBMF Aircrew and a team of engineers who led a round of applause and offered their congratulations and thanks for everything they have done during their time on the Flight.

Everyone at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight wish Gp Cpt Peterson and Flt Lt Farrell all the very best in their next ventures!

Coningsby Station Commander Matt Peterson and Bomber Pilot Neil “Faz” Farrell Fly BBMF Aircraft for the last

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There for you, supporting the forces

COMES TO CONINGSBY BUSHCRAFT

BY FS CHAZ CUTTING

Set in Forestry England woodland near Bardney, Camshaw Woods is the ideal setting for the Station Bushcraft Course. This 3-day Force Development course allows all ranks to learn a variety of skills that are not related to their primary task. Because of this, it promotes teamwork in an unfamiliar environment away from the normal distractions of everyday life.

This is not a SERE or survival course although a lot of the skills are transferrable. By definition, if you are still alive at the end of a survival course, you have passed…well done (think Bear Grylls)! Bushcraft is different in that it utilises skills to use natural resources to improve your situation (think Ray Mears). This is not a starvation course, quite the opposite as you are well fed (Ray Mears is not a small guy).

The course takes the students on a journey that only a couple of generations ago, would have been seemed unnecessary because it would have been as commonplace then as checking your Facebook account is now.

Students learn safe cutting techniques, shelter building, food preparation (pigeon, trout and rabbit), safe water collection, natural navigation, fire lighting (including lighting a fire using friction) and foraging as well as a variety of other skills.

Preparations are well under way for the 2023 season when 4 full courses will run between May and September as well as some one-day taster sessions held in the SOLSTA training area.

If you would like to book on the course, please take a look at the TDF Sharepoint site or contact any of the following:

FS Cutting gordon.cutting801@ mod.gov.uk

FS Higgins francis.higgins429@ mod.gov.uk

Cpl McAllister mathew. mcallister101@mod.gov.uk

Cpl Tierney Andrew. tierney100@mod.gov.uk

12 SQN

In August, 12 Sqn celebrated with its industry partners at the RAF Club the successes of the Qatari Typhoon Programme so far. It was an opportunity to bring together representatives of a myriad of organisations from across industry and the MoD who ordinarily are spread across the UK, but who have all contributed significantly to the Programme’s success. But it was also an opportunity to begin saying goodbye to the first cohorts of fully qualified Pilots and Engineers who would shortly be departing to continue preparations for their own Typhoons. The following week, an acceptance ceremony took place for Qatar’s first Typhoon aircraft which they subsequently trailed with support from a RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft back

to their new home at Dukhan Air Base, Qatar.

As the Sqn parted with friends and colleagues, some of whom had been with the Sqn since its inception in 2018, the Sqn continued in its task to develop the skills of those remaining Engineers and Pilots of the QEAF. In the following month all remaining QEAF personnel completed their training to a level such that they can all safely

and effectively contribute to the security of the FIFA World Cup. This magnitude of flying was all achieved alongside preparing the aircraft for being away from their home base for many months; all of which was supported by the widerTyphoon Force.

The Sqn has now travelled to Qatar to continue perfecting the skills of the QEAF Pilots as well as supporting and advising

the standing up of their Typhoon Wing. In the coming weeks the Sqn will finalise preparations for it’s widely publicised and vital mission in supporting the security operation of the FIFA World Cup 2022. As one phase of 12 Sqn’s relationship with the QEAF has come to an end, the next has seamlessly begun. The Sqn is proud to be able to contribute to and is ready for what the coming months will bring.

THROUGHOUT THE PAST THREE MONTHS PREPARATIONS HAVE BEEN INTENSIFYING FOR 12 SQN’S WINTER DEPLOYMENT TO QATAR, AND FOR THE QATAR EMIRI AIR FORCE’S (QEAF) STANDING UP OF THEIR OWN TYPHOON WING.

611 SQUADRON JOINS NEW WAR MEMORIAL UNVEILING IN THE NORTH WEST

SOUTHPORT-BASED 611 SQUADRON JOINED FORCES WITH DIGNITARIES AND OTHER REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE NORTH WEST FOR THE UNVEILING OF A NEW WAR MEMORIAL, HONOURING SIX WW2 ALLIED AIRMEN FROM RAF BOMBER COMMAND.

In August 1943, a Wellington medium range bomber with a crew of five Royal Australian Air Force and one Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve personnel on board crashed onto what is now a football pitch in Walton Park, Sale.

Two of the Australian servicemen died in the crash. The remainder of the crew were also killed in later WW2 bombing missions apart from one, who was so badly injured in the incident at Sale that he never flew operationally again, Sale historian George Cogswell researched the crash in the early 1990s and started the process to

raise a memorial at Walton Park to honour the six men.

The memorial was unveiled by Warrant Officer Rodney Wallace of the Royal Australian Air Force, supported by Wing Commander Stephen Chaskin OBE, of 611 Squadron, representing the Royal Air Force.

George Cogswell said: “I am glad we now have the permanent memorial in Sale.

“With five of the six men on the flight coming from Australia, we were very honoured to have a representative from the RAAF in Sale for the unveiling.”

Flying with the Australian personnel on the night of the

3(F) SQN

Air to Air Workup Phase

Having finished our deployment to Romania as part of NATOs enhanced Air Policing mission, 3(F) Sqn continue to undertake focused air-to-air combat training following our return to RAF Coningsby in August. Working alongside assets from America, Italy, Germany and the Royal Navy, Typhoon jets sporting the 3(F) cockatrice emblem have led missions in the beyond-visualrange-arena acting as both Blue ‘friendly’ forces and Red ‘hostile’ forces. Part of this phase of training involved the live firing of AIM-132 ASRAAMs versus unmanned airborne targets during which a total of 7 ‘Fox2s’ were successfully launched.

In addition to participating in large airborne missions, launching as part of Quick Reaction Alert, and delivering

‘running

Onboard HMS Diamond, one of the Royal Navy’s Type 45 destroyers, a tour of the ship highlighted the very limited living space available to

crash was Sergeant John (Tich) McCarthy, who was born in County Waterford, Ireland.

He was serving with the RAF’s Volunteer Reserve, after originally coming to South Wales in 1941 to help build airfields.

Wing Commander Chaskin added: “The men were all a long way from home that night and

had to deal with the failure of both of their aircraft’s engines.

“Thanks to great skill and quick thinking they managed to avoid crashing into local houses, but unfortunately in the process two of the crew were killed. Their actions to try and save others will be long remembered.”

HMS Diamond 3(F) Sqn personnel participated in force development training onboard HMS Diamond with the aim to develop the understanding of air defence within the Royal Navy. To foster inter Service cooperation the deployment started with the Naval tradition of

ashore’ in Portsmouth, a lucrative affair.

junior ranks.

Typhoon jets to RAF Akrotiri in support of Op SHADER, 3(F) Pilots manned combat air patrols during Op London Bridge in support of Her Majesty The Queen’s State Funeral. During the funeral procession the pilots involved were airborne for over 8 hours and refuelled with RAF Voyagers multiple times.

29 SQN A FOND FAREWELL AND A BIG WELCOME

On 29 Sep 22, 29 Sqn took a moment to say a big thank you to its outgoing Officer Commanding, Wg Cdr J Calvert, and welcome his successor, Wg Cdr A Shaw. Personnel from across the Stn, notably the Stn Cdr, his successor, and the Typhoon Deputy Force Commander, stopped to gather outside on a brisk and breezy day for a short handover ceremony, during which the 29 Sqn pennant, and the Sqn, was formally handed over.

The ceremony was expertly conducted by WO T Hennells, who arranged 29 Sqn engineers and aircrew into a parade which

included a formation resembling 29 Sqn’s famous ‘XXX’ ensign. The parade was brought to attention whilst the pennant was lowered, a bugle playing to mark the occasion. An impeccably timed flypast by the 29 Sqn Typhoon Display Team overflew the parade at this moment. It was a powerful and fitting tribute to the event.

Wg Cdr Calvert made a short speech to give his thanks to those gathered and to all members of the Sqn for their hard work and support during his tenure as Officer Commanding. He also took a moment to welcome his successor and wish him the very best of luck going forward. WO Hennells oversaw the raising of the pennant in the name of the new Officer Commanding, before the parade was brought to a close.

29 Sqn is very pleased to welcome back Wg Cdr Shaw, who has previously served as 29 Sqn Executive Officer. His rich experience and prior knowledge of 29 Sqn will no doubt be of significant value going forward.

An impeccably timed flypast by the 29 Sqn Typhoon Display Team overflew the parade at this moment.

41 SQN

A BUSY FEW MONTHS FOR 41 SQN WITH LOTS OF CHANGE.

More specifically at the helm. We say goodbye and congratulations to OC 41 Sqn Wg Cdr Lee “Flash” Gordon. “Flash” has deservedly been promoted to Group Captain and posted to Air Cmd where we wish him all the best. We welcome his replacement Wg Cdr Atila “Tils” Batu, posted in from the Air & Space Warfare Centre.

Wg Cdr Batu has flown numerous combat air systems, including the Tornado F3, F-16 with USAF, F-35 and now Typhoon. We would also like to welcome Cpl Jo Avison posted to us from Cyprus and AS1 Javin Miltra from Coningsby Tower. Welcome all to 41 Sqn!

We would like to offer a huge congratulations to WO Peter Hale, who celebrated his 100th Birthday this year! Mr Hale joined the Air Force during the Second World War in June 1941 at the age of 18 and served on the Sqn between 1944-1945 flying many missions in the Supermarine Spitfire during his time. As a token of our gratitude and appreciation, 41 Sqn presented Mr Hale with a specially signed print for his birthday, complete with a unique 41 Sqn name patch.

Congratulations again Mr Hale, from all of us here at 41.

41 Sqn took part in Ex ATLANTIC THUNDER 22 which was a joint UK and US maritime anti-surface warfare exercise, which involved dropping live weapons against a decommissioned warship. This was the first time a Typhoon had dropped weapons against a maritime surface vessel. This enabled us to produce and refine tactics and procedures against maritime targets. The Sqn was able to use the new Litening V targeting pod and gained valuable data in its use in real-world detonation events. This was also the first time Typhoon had worked with the Royal Navy’s Wildcat helicopter, who provided targeting information during the exercise.

Overall, Atlantic Thunder 22 presented a unique opportunity to release live weapons against a large surface target within the UK. 41 Sqn was able to conduct test points and capture data for several trials that span upgrades to Typhoon software, sensors and targeting systems, particularly the Litening V.

Additionally, the attack profiles flown provided evidence to assess the development of new tactics and procedures. These were designed to demonstrate how Typhoon could be

employed in future maritime operations, specifically using 3rd party targeting and operations with the Royal Navy. The Sqn gained so much benefit from Ex ATLANTIC THUNDER, working with both the US and Royal Navy forces. We look forward with anticipation for future iterations of this exercise, allowing future weapon development for the Typhoon Force against operationally relevant targets.

It was also time for reflection and a time to pay our respects to five members of 41 Sqn who tragically lost their lives in a coach accident in West Germany on 21 May 1983.

As a mark of respect, 41 Sqn conducted a pairs flypast over RAF Coltishall in their memory. ‘LEST WE FORGET’.

Until next time… ‘Seek and Destroy’.

AIR LAND INTEGRATION CELL

The death of Her Majesty the Queen saw a very short notice deployment of 7 personnel down to London to provide behind-thescenes support to the Civilian Police and Greater London Authority’s contracted stewards. This was part of a much larger triService deployment; some 1500 personnel deployed into a disused office block in central London to work in 2 shifts; one under CO 35 Engineer Regiment and the other under OC 7 Force Protection Wing (Wg Cdr Raimondo).

aircrew and enabling airfield seizure. The Ex also provided an opportunity to explore some new concepts under the ALI Cell’s modernisation.

Having only just completed the post-Ex COBRA WARRIOR administration, elements of the Cell deployed on 2 quite different exercises in the US.

The first being a multinational exercise designed to provide operational and tactical warfighters training in a synthetic, theatre-level, major combat operation, contested, degraded environment.

In the run up to the funeral and on the day itself, the ALI Cell personnel found themselves employed at locations around the ceremonial area supporting the police and stewards in managing the huge crowds. Some were lucky enough to view the procession as it passed.

Concurrently to the support to the funeral, half of the Cell’s personnel deployed in support of Ex COBRA WARRIOR at locations up and down the country. They worked closely with USAF counterparts to enable the various serials that the trainee Qualified Weapons Instructors were being put through alongside Partner Nations including Italian, US and German aircraft. Tasks included extracting downed

The second is a regular feature on the Forecast of Events; a bi-annual live environment Close Air Support (CAS) currency and competency exercise at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada (the modern home of the US Navy’s Top Gun programme). This exercise sees the ALI Cell personnel integrating with the US Navy’s Strike Fighter Armament Readiness Programme by day and by night – a wellestablished relationship that provides demanding training in a challenging environment that can not be achieved in the UK.

Concurrent to all of these training exercises, work has been ongoing on modernising the ALI Cell’s output; more towards that of an Air Integrator who is capable of integrating broader air power beyond simply Close Air Support. This includes enabling helicopter operations, air mobility operations in the form of preparing Tactical Landing Zones and enhancing knowledge of ISR platforms and their employment.

With all this activity throughout the year, Christmas will bring a well-earnt period of rest that will be here before we know it!

Concurrent to all of these training exercises, work has been ongoing on modernising the ALI Cell’s output; more towards that of an Air Integrator who is capable of integrating broader air power beyond simply Close Air Support.

On November 18th we were honoured with a visit from His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales. Our photographers were on hand to capture the excitement.

PRINCE WILLIAM VISITS RAF CONINGSBY “

SINCE THE LAST ISSUE, THE AIR LAND INTEGRATION (ALI) CELL HAS UNDERTAKEN MANY MORE EXERCISES AND OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS. FOR MOST IN THE CELL, CHRISTMAS LEAVE WILL BE HERE BEFORE WE KNOW IT. SO WHAT EXACTLY HAS THE 37-STRONG CELL BEEN UP TO?

HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S FUNERAL RAF CONINGSBY SUPPORTS

BY CPL WILL CHATWIN FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF HER LATE HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN, SEVERAL OPERATIONS WERE CALLED IN ORDER TO BEST SUPPORT THE STATE’S OFFICIAL PERIOD OF MOURNING AND FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS.

On the 11 September 22, a number of Tri-service personnel from Units across the country, including RAF Coningsby, were stood up in order to assist in the undertaking of one of these operations known as Op BALLAM. Around 50 personnel from RAF Coningsby were sent in aid of Op BALLAM. The main aim of the operation was to

assist the London authorities in maintaining crowd control during the mass influx of visitors to the city of London. Tri-service personnel were tasked with marshalling duties whereby they would be required to staff the streets of London helping to re direct the flow of crowds, give directions, or simply maintain a feeling of public safety.

Throughout the operation Tri-service personnel were accommodated in a disused office block in central London. Accommodating 1500 Triservice personnel in a building designed for workspace came with its own challenges.

Showering, sleeping, and eating arrangements all had to be externally brought into the office block to ensure personnel were able to effectively undertake duties throughout the operation. All Tri-service personnel proved exceptionally adaptable to these conditions,

coming prepared with sleeping bags and roll mats to set up bed spaces on the floor for the week.

Due to the nature of operations in central London it was decided that personnel would need to remain close to the accommodation should they be required on short notice to aid in operations. As a result, personnel were confined to a 100m radius of the accommodation. To keep active during this period PTIs from RAF Coningsby began offering fitness sessions on the rooftop of the building, including yoga and circuit sessions. In addition to this, personnel were offered the opportunity to visit some the prominent landmarks in the local area when there was a lull in taskings.

The operation helped to contribute towards a safe and peaceful period of state mourning and funeral services

within the City of London in which Tri-service personnel will have been proud to have served in. With the success of Op BALLAM and the overall success of Op LONDON BRIDGE, focus will now shift towards how Tri-service personnel can best aid in the Coronation of His Majesty the King which I’m sure all members of the armed forces will be proud and eager to serve in.

“ ”

All Tri-service personnel proved exceptionally adaptable to these conditions, coming prepared with sleeping bags and roll mats to set up bed spaces on the floor for the week.

FESTIVAL OF FOOTBALL

WINNING SUCCESS

BY AS1 SHANNON LOGAN

IN OCTOBER 2022, RAF CONINGSBY WOMEN’S FOOTBALL TEAM TOOK PART IN THE 5-A-SIDE FESTIVAL OF FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT HELD AT SHREWSBURY TOWN

FC.

This tournament saw 12 teams battling it out for a chance to win the RAFFA Women’s 5-a-side annual football tournament.

Opening game in the group stage was against Shrewsbury. The first goal being scored by Coningsby within the opening 30s of the match set Coningsby on a smooth road to victory. Additional goals by both Rachel Howes and Lucy Farrow, giving the team a sure win and a great start. With strong attacking play the final score was 8-0 to Coningsby.

Coningsby were then faced Brize Norton Movers. Both teams started strong with Coningsby taking the

lead goal, not long followed by Brize Movers to even the score. The remainder of the game saw the girls slide a few more goals past Brize Movers. Winning their second match with 4-1.

The third game, toughest so far, against the mixed team Brize Norton and Benson. With both teams having experienced and strong players, the girls were in for a tough match. Eventually, a breakthrough goal from Lucy Farrow gave Coningsby the lead. A solid defence, with outstanding saves by Coningsby’s goalkeeper Emily Gascoyne, the girls held on to claim the win.

Up next, RAF Police B. The first two goals for Coningsby scored by Shannon Logan followed by a cheeky goal from RAF Police B in their attempt to even the score. Coningsby tightened their defence and pushed to further the lead. With a finishing score of 6-1 to Coningsby means they’ll finish top of their group with one game remaining.

The final game in the group stage saw Coningsby Vs Cosford.

Shots on target from both teams being well deflected until Coningsby scored their first goal. Both teams were strong throughout with Cosford only allowing two goals to creep past, leaving the final score 2-0. Coningsby finishing the group stage undefeated.

The semi-final saw Coningsby face High Wycombe. With a strong game plan, Coningsby set out to secure their place in the final. Barely giving High Wycombe a chance, firing goals into the net whilst keeping a stern defence. A final score of 4-0 means Coningsby progress onto the finals.

The fight for the RAFFA Women’s 5-a-side was now between Coningsby and their adversary’s Brize/Benson. With the opposition trying to redeem themselves from the group stage, this was an intense final. The opposition were relentless, forcing Emily Gascoyne to make some great saves and the with rest of the team blocking many attempted shots. Lucy Farrow however managed to unravel

their defence and break the deadlock, scoring the winning goal for Coningsby. Ending the tournament undefeated with a 1-0 win against Brize/Benson again.

If you would like to get involved with RAF Coningsby Women’s Football team, please contact Sgt Jennifer Whatton (Jennifer. Whatton805@mod.gov.uk), we welcome all experience levels and are a very friendly group.

RAF CONINGSBY CHARITY COMMITTEE

TAXIWAY DASH

On a sunny, calm Friday, 2 September, a hardy 19 participants lined up at the start point for the inaugural one-mile Taxiway Dash. Taxiway Alpha was utilised with the participants starting from the main Air system Servicing Platform, adjacent to 29 Sqn’s hangar, passing Air Traffic Control and the Fire Section towards the finish line adjacent to Crash Gate 2. This was a Whole Force event for both serious and leisure runners, including the option for fancy-dress.

The Stn Cdr was represented by Wg Cdr Poynton, OC BSW who signalled the event start at 1000. The early pace setters were WOs John Leonard and Trev Quarterman who matched each other pace for pace throughout. As the finish line approached still neck and neck, Capt Kirk and the 70’s Rock Star sportingly crossed the line together in a time of 7mins 20 secs. The remainder of the participants followed closely behind with a sterling effort from 7 Force Protection Wing, running in full battle gear and carrying a stretcher.

The youngest, yet most senior rank participating was 10-yearold ‘Marshal of the Royal Air Force’ Fynn Chivers who looked resplendent in his flying suit. The fancy-dress winners chosen by OC BSW were Mr Martin Topping of BAES and the 5* Fynn.

A special thanks to BAES who also provided additional prizes for the event in addition to the Stn coins. The amount donated towards this event was £142. Many thanks also to non-committee volunteers who were positioned as safety marshallers along the route, Padre Lacey, Iman Omar and Sgt Adam Milburn of XI(F) Sqn.

Keep an eye out for next year’s event which hopefully will grow in stature and become an annual run.

THE STATION CHARITY COMMITTEE’S AIM IS TO HOLD FOUR MAIN EVENTS EACH YEAR WITH THIS YEAR’S CHOSEN CHARITIES BEING SSAFA AND RAFBF.

A BUSY YEAR FOR LINCS & NOTTS AIR AMBULANCE

2022 is set to become the busiest year on record since the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) began its operations in 1994. Already the number of incidents attended are eight per cent higher than the same time last year, which was LNAA’s busiest year to date.

This increase is set to rise further, for the helicopter which until last month flew from 7am to 10pm, has increased its flying capabilities and is now able to fly through the night until 2am, the only fully night capable air ambulance in the entire East Midlands region.

So far, the doctor-paramedic crew have responded to 1,413 missions, a stark reminder of the need for LNAA. And the team know that without the support of the people of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, they would not be able to deliver such a dedicated and life-saving service.

LNAA receives no direct Government funding for its day-to-day operations. Yet, it needs to raise £8 million this year to deliver its life-saving service every hour of the day.

Buying one of our Virtual Gifts this Christmas is a wonderful way to purchase a thoughtful gift for a loved one and donate to this vital service at the same time. All proceeds will help LNAA continue its vital work providing emergency medical treatment at some of the most serious and time critical 999 calls.

• It’s our free online platform exclusively for RAF personnel and their partners.

• Covering a range of self-directed topics tailored to life in the RAF.

• The course can be accessed anonymously, either as a couple or separately.

• It aims to equip you with the communication skills and strategies to get the best out of your relationships. We also provide relationship counselling and mediation support.

SC AN ME W IT H YO UR CA ME RA