InsIghtMAGAZINE 1THE MAGAZINE OF RAF Waddington Is NOw ONlINE: www.THEINSIGHTONLINE.CO.UK

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IssuE 5 2012

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EditoriaL tEaM:WAD-InsightEditorialTeam@mod.ukExternal Email: Use personal email addresses listed Tel: 01522 720271 (7801Ext No.)Editor:(Sqn-Ldr) Mark Brammermark.brammer679@mod.ukdeputy Editor:Flight Lieutenant Anna Sznerch Wad-BSW-PMS-P1-OC@mod.ukdistribution: Corporal Stephen Calvert Ext 6495 steven.calvert415@mod.ukartwork: S OliverPhotography:Sgt Karl Whitelaw, Cpl Loz Platfoot, Cpl Sarah Draper, SAC Chris Davidson, SAC Lauren Pope, SAC Andy Stevens, SAC Ben Stevensonadvertising by: Jo Marchant Tel: 01536 526674 designed by: Rowena WilsonTel: 01536 521126 Published by: Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road,Kettering.NN16 8NLTel: 01536 512624Fax: 01536 515481www.lancepublishing.co.ukEmail: mike@lancepublishing.co.ukPrinted by: Lance Print Ltd

From the Editor…

on the coverISTar fLIES 20000 HOUrS

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Issue 5 2012

As Christmas fast approaches, we wave goodbye to the rather wet summer that has graced us with its presence, and welcome the

courageous achievement of 20000 hours for ISTAR capabilities between v (AC) Sqn and 14 Sqn. With Insight’s new Editor, Sqn Ldr Mark Brammer ‘sunning’ himself in hotter climates, a new recruit, Flt Lt Levi Birch was fast on the uptake of keeping me on the straight and narrow as we prepared all of the articles for issue.

Over the past few months the station continues to maintain its busy operational tempo with various accomplishments including 14 Sqn and V Sqn’s joint success in ‘clocking up’ 20000 hours worth of flying since 2009. Personnel from Number 51 Squadron have enjoyed an Expedition to Alaska whilst the Community Support Squadron has been busy on various visits across station and to the Olympics to sample some of the international sporting achievements. On a more personal level certain individuals stand out across station for their dedication and commitment to their part in the recent Olympics. Notably Squadron Leader Nick Davies (Air Warfare

Centre) who performed in the role as the London 2012 Triathlon Run and Bike Course Leader. Whilst, Flight Sergeant Antony Wingate (8 Sqn) was at the heart of the Olympics, in a pivotal role, as a member of the London 2012 Flag Raising Team.

Peppered with such success, the determination and professionalism of RAF Waddington’s personnel was further highlighted in the recent Air Officer in Command Number 1 Group Award night where, as a station, Waddington scooped two awards.

As I bid farewell in my role as Deputy Editor of Insight I welcome my successor Flt Lt Heather Constantine who, has kindly volunteered to take over – brace yourself for some good Costa coffee breaks that classically last well beyond the assigned half an hour you’d like to think they should last.

We hope you enjoy the contents band invite you to make your own submissions to the editorial team. We accept articles from all sections at RAF Waddington and the larger aviation-interested community. So submit away and you too could be a part of this great magazine!

I’d like to thank Flt Lt Anna Sznerch for her outstanding work on the Insight Editorial Team over the past year. I’ve asked her to write this month’s Editor’s Forward, as she is the ‘brains’ behind this edition.

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The magazine is entirely funded by advertising and costs the Station nothing to produce. Insight is not an official publication and, unless otherwise stated, views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent MOD, RAF or Station policy. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the editor or publishers. Advertisements accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. Insight is produced by kind permission of the Station Commander, RAF Waddington.

Please send your

contributions to:

The Editor,

Insight Magazine,

RAF Waddington,

Lincoln, LN5 9NB.

AIR CADET PILOT SCHOLARSHIP SSAFA

68TH ANNIVERSAIRy OF OPERATION MARkET GARDEN

10,000 OPERATIONAL HOuRS

RED FLAG ALASkA, TOP OF THE WORLD

STATION COMMANDER’S FOREWORD

FLyING THE FLAG OF THE 2012 OLyMPICS

ISTAR 20,000 HOuRS, DOuBLE-WHAMMy

51 SqN

MOuNTAIN GOOSE

ROyAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

kARTING

THE 56(R) SqN TRINITy CHALLENGE PADRE’S PATTER

ANNuAL ADVENTuRE TRAINING CAMP

CHAMPIONS, LLAMAS AND FAREWELL

In this Issue… 06

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station Commander’sForeword...Group Captain Al GillespieStation Commander

N ot being content with clocking up the hours and continuing to provide RAF Waddington’s major commitment to global

defence the Squadron has also taken a moment to accept plaudits from our own Command Group. On this occasion the Squadron was the 2012 winner of the 1 Group Operational Performance Award sponsored by MDNA. The award is greatly received by all on 14 Squadron as part of

This summer has seen 14 Squadron pass the incredible

milestone of accruing 10,000 Operational Shadow R1 Hours! This magnificent achievement

was reached on 19th July.

Despite the significant demands placed upon the Station to support, those who participated have spoken of immense pride

and satisfaction in being part of these ‘once in a lifetime’ events. Front and centre were Squadron Leader Nick Davies (Air Warfare Centre) who swapped his day job as a tactics advisor to be at the heart of the Olympic action as the London 2012 Triathlon Run and Bike Course Leader. Additionally, Flight Sergeant Antony Wingate (8 Sqn) had a starring role, at the heart of the Olympic action, as a member of the London 2012 Flag Raising Team. Well done to both for flying the flag with such pride and aplomb!

Not withstanding the additional commitments elsewhere, RAF Waddington’s main effort has remained support to operations in Afghanistan and No. V(AC) Sqn (Sentinel R-1) and No.14 Sqn (Shadow R-1) have both clocked up 10,000 hrs providing much needed intelligence and surveillance to our ground forces in that operational theatre. In January this year, RAF Waddington moved into No.1 Group and, as such, was considered for the first time in the No.1 Group Annual Awards Dinner. In recognition of our ongoing successes, I was called upon twice to accept awards recognising the

Welcome to RAF Waddington’s Insight Magazine. With a very busy summer behind us, we can look back proudly as a nation and a Service on the unprecedented success of the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games. Personnel and aircraft from RAF Waddington were intimately involved in the associated flypasts, the Olympic Air Security Plan and supporting the Home Office in the provision of Olympic Venue Security.

achievements of Waddington-based aircraft and personnel. No.8 Sqn (Sentry E-3D) received the Engineering Excellence Award for an unblemished aircraft availability record in support of operations over Libya last year and No.14 Sqn (Shadow R-1) received the Operational Performance Award for accomplishments in Afghanistan above and beyond what would normally be expected. Personnel from 51 Sqn are also supporting operations in Afghanistan but as part of a joint manning venture on-board uS Air Force Rivet Joint aircraft. The skills developed by the uk crews will be invaluable as we work towards the arrival of our own RAF Rivet Joint aircraft in late 2013. No 51 Sqn personnel have delivered more than 12,000 hours of valuable electronic surveillance to the International Security Assistance Force.

Inside the magazine, 56(R) Sqn discuss their Trinity Challenge which will see three charities benefit from the Herculean efforts of Sqn Ldr Rich Milburn, Flt Lt’s Martin Bindemann and Jonathan Jarvis and Flight Sergeant Paul Jones who will complete the Parachute Regiment’s ‘P-Company Challenge’ – a 10-mile run around Catterick Training Area loaded with a 35lb pack, the Chester Marathon and finally the ‘Ring of Steel’ in Scotland, mid-October. Good luck to you all.

Community Support Squadron also reflect on their Summer Programme. I am very grateful for the effort expended to deliver an unprecedented selection of activities designed to reach out to the geographically-spread Waddington community. The highlights included three very successful and well attended joint ‘Deployed Families’ and Airplay youth Club trips to yorkshire Wildlife Park, Fantasy Island and Alton Towers.  Possibly the largest and most well supported event this summer was the ‘National Families Week’ event, held in partnership with 4Children, our nursery day care and extended schools provider on Station. The weather was reasonably kind and it was well received by all who attended.

Finally, my thanks go out to the 3,000 people who work at RAF Waddington for continuing to deliver our output in such style, often in the face of resource constraints or other adversity. I hope that, no matter what your association with RAF Waddington, you enjoy the magazine.

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oPErationaL

hoursoPErationaL

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our “unique and enduring support to uk forces… and unparalleled level of respect by those forces with which it has operated”. Within a command structure which includes Typhoon, Tornado GR4 and the E3-D Sentry it is a tremendous achievement to have this honour bestowed upon us.

Members of 14 Sqn have also found time to engage in some much needed Force Development. Straight from Officer Training at RAFC Cranwell, Flying Officer Andrews has wasted no time on Squadron before organising some adventurous training. The 23rd August saw him lead a team of 6 personnel on Exercise SHADOW PINES at the Sherwood Pines Mountain biking centre.

Flying Officer Andrews said, “The idea, in true Adventurous Training fashion, was to engender team spirit and robustness in an environment unfamiliar to the group; and it didn’t disappoint. The overcast conditions in the height of summer paved the way for a dehydrating workout in rugged terrain. It turned out one or two participants had some hidden hill climb talents, so it demanded everyone’s best efforts to keep pace. Whilst there were plenty of hairy moments; overall, the expedition lived up to expectations, far exceeded the objectives set out in the planning phase and proved to be exhausting, arduous, exhilarating, morale-boosting and above all, everybody walked away with the sense of achievement and tired legs. Another Mission achieved for 14 Squadron!”

Of the new members to 14 Squadron it hasn’t taken the new Operations Officer long to make an impact. Flt Lt Walker, newly arrived from RAF Coningsby was keen to take a group back to his old stomping ground. In true 14 Squadron expeditionary fashion, 12 personnel visited the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight for a guided tour of

their incredible WWII aircraft. Luckily, the visitors were also able to visit the Lancaster stored at East kirkby and see it carry out and engine run and taxy, and a visit to the Petwood Hotel, the wartime mess of the famous 617 Squadron.

With the plaudits continuing to flow, 14 Squadron we are proud to announce individual awards for their personnel. Both Chief Tech Bain and Corporal Preece have received the prestigious Chief of the Air Staff commendations and Chief Tech Dinan an Air Officer Commanding 1 Group commendation for their continued outstanding dedication and support to Operations.

Before we sign off for this edition, some public congratulations to Richie and Ruth, Diesel and kat for their new arrivals Lily and Maisy respectively…hopefully not too many sleepless nights ahead! The Wedding bells for Geordie and Jade have been ringing, and SAC Hibbins will soon be taking Pam down the aisle having just announced their engagement, well done all.

As we sign off for this edition, may we wish everyone a happy end to the summer of 2012 and look forward to the Christmas edition.

TOp OF THE WorLd Red

FlAg aLaska

An advance party had set off a few days earlier to prepare for the E-3D arrival on 1 Aug 12 while the rest of the required personnel

were flying out budget-conscious economy-class with a civilian airline. At short notice, a few people who were due to travel out onboard the E-3D were transferred to a civilian flight as it started to look like the E-3D was going to be delayed a day leaving RAF Waddington. This was necessary in order for enough of the crew to attend the mandatory initial crew briefings which would allow the E-3D to participate in RFA when it arrived. What actually happened was that the E-3D left RAF Waddington on the original schedule and completed the journey to uS Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) just outside Anchorage in southern Alaska in one hop due to kind winds and with great views of Iceland and Greenland. Meanwhile, the contingent flying out civilian via the imaginative routing of London to Anchorage via Houston, Texas in the American Southwest, were delayed leaving Heathrow, meaning that the connecting flight at Houston was missed. This lead to the majority of the original civilian transportation personnel having to spend a night in Houston which I am told was an indescribable hardship. The other members of the crew who had only changed to civilian air flights to make the briefs had to scrape around for another connecting flight and,

Red Flag normally evokes thoughts of Las Vegas, but this

was a different kind of Flag, this was Red Flag ALASKA

(RFA), complete with black bears on dispersal

while this was successful, it did see them arrive a considerable few hours after the E-3D. The good news is that eventually all of the RFA contingent were reunited at JBER and the briefings were attended so we were all set for two weeks of flying.

The cycle of events for the E-3D’s participation included a full planning day followed another full day of a mission flight and debriefs. This cycle was performed 6 times with all of our planned missions being completed - which was a fantastic effort by everyone involved, particularly the engineers for keeping the aircraft serviceable (and bear-free) and the weapons section of the E-3D crew for sticking with the demanding planning and debriefing cycles. The Exercise provided a great opportunity to work with the F-22 Raptor which is a fifth-generation fighter and rarely seen on our side of the Atlantic. This brought new challenges but also opportunities for the E-3D crew to investigate and employ within the mighty yukon air battlespace. The service provided by the uk E-3 crew was appreciated by those taking part with numerous favourable comments received and it was also particularly satisfying to detect and co-ordinate the intercept of the uk Hercules which was operating at low levels amongst the mountains.

We’re forced to admit that it wasn’t all work and no play, however. The middle weekend allowed the majority of personnel a day off

Alaska

©Alexrk2

TOp OF THE WorLd on the Saturday which opened up an excellent sight seeing opportunity. A contingent drove down to Seward for a whale watching and glacier boat trip. The weather was kind and the whales obliged along with the porpoises, sea lions, jelly fish, orcas, sea birds and beavers. The glacier was an amazing sight and the glacial ice tasted great in a margarita. Alaska in the summer has a lot to offer during the day (which were 22 hours long) as well as some good evening entertainment. There were numerous activities which allowed the detachment to enjoy the spectacular scenery with coastal cycle paths, fishing spots and hiking routes although not all paths on trail maps are to be trusted! As well as car, boat, bicycle and on foot trips; there were also those who took to the skies in light aircraft. One of these flights was a tour around Mt Mckinley including a glacier landing which was a fantastic experience by all accounts. The view of Mt Mckinley was amazing from the Sentry flight deck at 30000 feet, so I can imagine how impressive it would have looked from a light aircraft.

After two and a half weeks, RFA was over and it was time to make our way home. The return flights were uneventful for both those on the E-3D and civilian airline, with the route for the civilian flight staying in northern uSA. The detachment was a fantastic training opportunity and Alaska was a wonderful host, despite those bears.

InsIghtMAGAZINE 9

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T he deployment came as a result of a joint manning venture between the RAF and uSAF to ensure 51 Sqn crew members

are operationally ready for the arrival of the uk RJ in December 2013. The deployment was designed to provide the opportunity to gain more hands-on time and experience necessary, whilst adhering to the Memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two services. It had only been two months since some of us returned to the uk from a 5 month OCu in Offutt AFB, Nebraska. The course consisted of 8 weeks classroom work and simulator lessons delivered by Crew Training International (CTI), a civilian company predominantly made up of ex-RJ crew members. Following that, further training was carried out on the 338th for yet more theory, practical and of course flying training. Interspersed throughout the training was a myriad of additional uS-specific training RAF personnel had to complete such as weapons handling, crypto briefs and the plethora of online study packages, much inline with the E&D style briefs RAF personnel already receive. Following a brief 3 week respite back in the uk at the beginning of November, it was back to Offutt for a fortnight of pre-deployment training, ensuring that authorisations, qualifications and any other ‘shuns’ you can think of were up to date; this culminated in a mass brief for all those RAF and uSAF personnel deploying.

By the time we arrived in theatre following a sightseeing tour of the Middle-East courtesy of RAF AT, our American counterparts had already completed 45 of their 90 days. No, this isn’t the result

sqNThe end of January 2012 - it was time to leave the

cold, wet, miserable British winter behind and head off for sunny but slightly more austere climbs to join a USAF crew on-board the RC-135V/W Rivet Joint (RJ)

aircraft operating from Al-Udeid, Qatar.

of delayed AT but again, part of the MOu states uk personnel will complete a 45 day tour length. Following immigration (the less said the better), we were whisked away to our accommodation to settle in before an early start the next day. The accommodation is somewhat surprising, no not really, it’s as expected, a two-man room, tin-hut style and everything covered in sand, very in-keeping with the standard middle-east 5 star excellence we’ve all become accustomed to. It was late at night, so a quick unpack, shower then bed were in order. What could possibly be awaiting us for our first morning in theatre? A brief, always a good starting point and one of many throughout the day, throughout the deployment in fact, followed by further checking and double checking of ‘shuns’ (previously mentioned) before the 763rd Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron permitted us to fly in theatre.

There are several RJ crews in theatre supporting a varying number of lines of flying per 24 hour period in support of Op HERRICk. The eight-man RAF contingent was dispersed amongst three of the crews; our various specialisations Navigator, Airborne Systems Engineers and Cryptological Operators. After 48 hours in theatre, packed with uSAF and RAF arrival processing, we were finally ready to start work and get in to a rhythm that would hopefully make time pass quickly.

Before we go into the war stories of long flights, lack of sleep and working against the odds to deliver and uphold the professional standards expected by the RAF, a little bit must be said about Al udeid. For those of you who have visited before, I apologise. For those who haven’t, close in. It’s Little America, as

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you’d expect from a base with such a large u.S contingency. Pizza Hut, Burger king, Baskin Robins - to name but a few outlets there to make your stay all the more enjoyable. If only there were swimming facilities, large gyms and a 24-hour cinema to make down time all the more enjoyable, and maybe a BX and social area that sells alcohol to help unwind after a long day.

Our crew was assigned to the ‘night go’. Welcome to a topsy turvy world for the next seven weeks. It was time to say “goodnight” to the sun, except for fleeting glimpses, and “hello” moon. This was to provide the first major hurdle, ‘enforced sleep’ during a sunny day when the majority of the base was up and about. The working cycle was spread over 72 hours; I’d love to use “days” or “nights” to describe it, but by the end of the deployment it really was a blur as to which was which. It went a little something like this:

Day 1 14:00 Sleep (Try to get an allotted 8 hours

sleep required, I mean try) 23:00 Start work as standby crew in case

of any illnesses (Load the ‘night go’ aircraft and c/o pre-flight for the operating crew)

02:00 Return to Ops and mission plan for our flight 24 hours later

05:30 Shift over so long as the a/c was airborne and on task

06:00 Back at the accommodation check emails, go for a run and then stay awake until roughly midday when it was time to head off for lunch (or was that supper?)

Day 2 14:00 Sleep (try to get an allotted 8 hours

sleep required errm try)22:00 Wake and shower before leaving for

breakfast at 22:3023:00 Start work (Mission brief, take over the

a/c from the standby crew and launch)

Day 315:00 Land, Debrief groundcrew, Return to

Ops for a crew debrief with Sqn execs17:00 Return to accommodation and sleep

until midnight00:00 Force the body to wake up and catch

up on emails, laundry, fitness etc. Stay awake (if possible) until 14:00 then the whole thing begins again.

After two weeks, the body became tired enough to sleep at 14:00 and the whole circadian rhythm had truly begun to shift. The gym and running track were a big help when trying to stay awake in the latter stages of night. As much as I enjoyed the running (more so I did it because it kept me awake), I could never force myself to join

my fellow crew (namely USAF personnel) and partake in a bizarre fitness regime called ‘Insanity’ which I would compare to a near death experience for even the most robust of athletes. It hadn’t taken long either before I felt completely embedded as part of the crew and the intercontinental jokes and banter had started to break the silence during the long flights. Contrary to popular belief, although separated by thousands of miles of ocean and hundreds of years of history, we share a common ground on many things, although the thought of eating steak or chicken or any other large meal presented by the mess at 22:30 is something I could never subscribe to.

Work was very British in many senses of the word. As a standby crew you would berate the primary operational crew if they delayed take off or had airborne issues forcing them to RTB and take the spare aircraft which again you had to pre-flight (Two pre-flights in one night-Oh Lord!!). As the Op crew you were in despair at the state of the aircraft when the standby crew had carried out the pre-flight (A CB not set, whatever next!). It was obviously down to ineptitude and lack of attention to detail and had nothing to do with the fact it was late at night and the body clock was in its own little world of turmoil. Morale boosts for the crew were attempted in many ways;

1. System of a Down (Hard Rock) blasting away on the crew bus – Not too Bad

2. Insanity exercise programme – No chance 3. Sharing of goodies sent from

someone’s mum (mom) – Aahhh lovely 4. Glee the musical on the crew bus –

HOME-TIME

We came to our last flight (#15 for UK, #30 for USAF) - what a wonderful atmosphere. Nothing would fail; we’d take off, carry out the mission, land, then happy days. And so it did, except for the landing part. Strong crosswinds had almost forced a diversion until after 3 missed approaches and four bounces down the runway – Touchdown, Houston the deployment is over, grab yourself a beer and say “hello” to daylight. A few days on the ground followed, our uSAF counterparts were in u.S transit (50 man rooms), we had escaped to the palatial RAF transit (Two man room), Americans always go bigger, this time smaller was so much better. Bags were packed and it was time to go home,seven days before the uSAF, Oh dear how we gloated! Oh dear how we shouldn’t have. A full bore rolling goat later and we departed a day prior to our brothers in arms. Goodbyes were said, friends were made and people to avoid were duly noted, no difference to a standard RAF deployment except louder, bigger and we were on the verge of saving the world!

InsIghtMAGAZINE 13

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InsIghtMAGAZINE 17

MOUNTaIN14-20 JUL 2012

In a welcome break from a hectic operational flying schedule, a number of 51 Squadron (Sqn) personnel

joined forces with old friends from RAF Cranwell & Digby, trading the relative flatness of Lincolnshire for the fresh

air and mountain delights of the Scottish Highlands.

Fastidiously planned by the ever efficient Coops, with some challenging routes picked out by seasoned hikers Dougie and Gary, this particular exped had

all the promise of being a good one with zero left to chance and nothing overlooked... or so it seemed until a quick phone call from Mrs Cooper alerted the usually meticulous (and now somewhat sheepish) Coops to the small fact that he had left both his lunch and walking boots at home! Spirits were high (and also in abundance judging from the clinking sounds from many of the bags) as we headed in convoy up to the Glencoe area. The banter, already in full flow, was further fuelled when we headed east on the A66, courtesy of some dodgy navigating by Rick and Phil. Following a backseat intervention, a quick adjustment was made and we were soon back on course, stopping only for junk food and to exchange currency at the border. Cries from the exped leaders that “...you’ll work off those calories on the hills!” had even the most health conscious of us tucking into deep fried local delicacies.

On a grey and overcast day we set off from Elleric in Glen Creran for the summit of Beinn Fhionnlaidh (959m) passing Glenure Lodge and up the shoulder of the mountain. After a nav faff (yes there was a theme beginning to emerge) searching for some elusive lochans, it became abundantly clear that either they or we weren’t where we were supposed to be. When we finally found the locans, they were so large you had to wonder how we could have missed them at all. Following coffee and cake, we entered the low cloud about 600m which unfortunately remained until the summit where we had lunch and a group photo in the infamous Scottish clag. Then we set off towards Glen Etive over rough ground and a very steep, tricky descent which culminated in a long walk back through the forest to Invercharnan. That evening, Dougie discussed the routes for the following day and mentioned that one of the Munros (the name given to peaks over 3000ft) we planned to bag, He had climbed these previously, explaining that the peak next to ours, although over 3000ft, hadn’t been considered a Munro but regarded as part of

the main peak. However following a review in 1999 it was awarded ‘Munro’ status. This meant he would have to climb it again in order to ‘bag’ it officially, to which Rob, who was a tired little bunny after the days exertions, piped up “that doesn’t explain why I have to do it!”

The evenings began to take on a familiar pattern; we would gather together to play cards or yatzee whilst reminiscing over the day’s events. Ah yes yahtzee, a game that Rick maintained was elusive. “No one ever gets yahtzee” he exclaimed and then just as Coops crosses it off his list, Sparka, who had never played before, rolled two on the trot winning the game hands down. Surveying the bemused faces and ignoring the cries of “what? No way!!!” Sparka took his cue to leave and retired smugly never to roll another die. One evening, as Dougie entertained everyone with funny stories of previous antics on the hills, he exclaimed proudly to the room “that was my 225th Munro today!” to which Lisa, who was nursing some blisters, replied “that was my last!”

Whilst Lincolnshire was being subjected to the most miserable of summers, the Gods looked fondly on our intrepid explorers. The sun shone as the group embarked on a very challenging, rewarding and picturesque route that would see them bag the summits of Stob Coire Sgreamhach (1072m) and Bidein nam Bain (1150m). We hadn’t gone far before we passed a notice board and a barrier proclaiming that the bridge across the river Coe was closed; Of course we duly ignored it and carried on downstream in search of a suitable place to cross. Some chose to cross by boulder hopping; the more adventurous and sprightly of us hung our boots and socks around our necks and waded right in! Following the path up Coire Gabhail – “The Lost Valley” - we were treated to some stunning views which unfortunately also included what waited for us up ahead; a long hard slog up the winding and somewhat eroded trail that cut a beautiful but very steep jagged path to the summit. Our pain was rewarded with stunning vistas across the whole of the Glencoe area and out towards the sea beyond. On our descent we spotted an RAF Sea king doing some

mountain flying below and the weary among us remarked that it was a pity we couldn’t call in a few favours and get ferried back to the foot of the mountain. Only half an hour later though, as Eric Clee teetered precariously on his walking sticks like a little old man, he took a sudden nasty tumble and narrowly missed smashing his scull on a large rock. Thankfully, once again, the fortunes were in our favour and the only hurt suffered was to his pride. Of course as soon as everyone realised he was fine our initial concerns gave way to some serious banter that had us all in stitches for the remainder of the descent.

On day three we were offered the stark choice of either 5 hours walking in the rain with Gary or 7 with Dougie! Of course, as the group had come to learn, neither Dougie nor Gary were particularly honest when it came to painting a picture of anything remotely resembling reality. “It’s just a few hundred metres further on” translated to over a mile, while Gary was notorious for claiming “Oh its only 120ft or so to the top,” usually meaning 500ft along with at least one and sometimes two false summits. Regardless, not even the constant rain could dampen the spirits of the jovial ‘Lofty’ who, despite being completely soaked through, was still able to joke and entertain us all as we waited in the minibus for the return of the others. unfortunately those in Dougie’s group who had chosen the longer walk got more than they bargained for. The large amount of rainfall made the normally calm River Copall fast flowing and impassable forcing them to make a further long trek across a horribly boggy path back to the bridge at Lagangarbh. The rain hadn’t hindered Phil who, while fishing, had ‘bagged’ two large Pollock. The exped ended with a mammoth 11 hour trek bagging four Munro’s that left everyone exhausted but in addition to the dozens of bites from a swarm of midges they carried with them some wonderful stories and battle scars as mementoes. On the final evening, the group fuelled by the success of the expedition and most likely emboldened by the ‘Scotch’ that ‘Lenny’ was passing around enthusiastically began making elaborate plans for Mountain Goose 2013.

The highlight of the journey home was the squeals of laughter as the group in the faster wagon sped past shouting ‘losers’ only to drive past the turn off for the road east on the A66 forcing a detour of 40 miles.

participants Major (Maj) Eric Clee Master Aircrew (MAcr) Dougie Bruce Master Aircrew (MAcr) Gary Vongyer Flight Sergeant (FS) Mark ‘Sparka’ Beckett Flight Sergeant (FS) Rob Forwood Flight Sergeant (FS) Iain ‘Lenny’ Graham Flight Sergeant (FS) Phil Myers Flight Sergeant (FS) Mark ‘Lofty’ Williams Chief Technician (CT) Rick kearney Sergeant (Sgt) Lisa Brady Sergeant (Sgt) Mark ‘Coops’ Cooper

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18 InsIghtMAGAZINE

trinitY

THE

56(r) SQN

One in six children is born prematurely (prior to 36 weeks gestation). Mandy and I knew little about this when we decided to have children. I was at the Control and Reporting Centre Scampton, supervising the control of a major UK air exercise when the call came in that Mandy’s waters had broken.

She was 28 weeks pregnant. I rushed to Lincoln to find that the hospital would not be able to properly care for our child. We spent an anxious afternoon waiting for the

hospital to find a bed elsewhere: the choice was between St James’ Hospital in Leeds or the Royal Norwich and Norfolk Hospital. In the meantime, Sam (our unborn son) had had a surfactant injected into his lungs to accelerate their development, as one of the major issues with very premature babies is that their lungs have a papery rather than spongy consistency.

The decision was eventually made to go to St. James’ in Leeds; Mandy was rushed there in an ambulance whilst I followed in the car. The journey itself was touch and go as the equipment in the ambulance was such that had Sam been born mid-journey, he would have died. The undulations in the road surface caused Mandy to begin contractions. This was a significant worry during the trip. Fortunately, Sam was not born during the transfer and Mandy arrived safely at St James’. Sam was born the next morning, and immediately whisked away by the medical team to ensure his survival; they did have to resuscitate him at one point when his heart stopped. We eventually got to meet Sam some 3 hours later, although he was extremely poorly. Sam had chronic lung disease, a minor brain haemorrhage and neonatal jaundice amongst other things and was hooked up to a cocktail of liquids being pumped into his body

24 hours a day. I became obsessed with his oxygen saturation readings; when the readings fell below 90%, doctors would arrive to take action. Sam’s lung problems were severe; their fragility meant that the right lung kept tearing and this necessitated a chest drain to suck the air out to allow the lung to inflate. Doctors removed the chest drain 3 times and the lung kept collapsing; Sam still bears the individual scars of these incisions to this day. After several weeks of this and no noticeable improvement in Sam’s condition we were given a stark choice. The only remaining treatment available was dexamethasone, which can assist babies’ lungs to work more effectively, but has been linked to increased chances of cerebral palsy. If we chose not to go down this road, then Sam would probably die. Sam reacted well to the dexamethasone and his oxygen saturation improved rapidly such that about 10 days after the medication started, he was well enough to travel to Lincoln and be cared for there as his condition was no longer life-threatening.

Sam spent the next few weeks at Lincoln Hospital in the Nocton Ward before he was deemed well enough to be taken home. The staff at both St James’ Hospital, in Leeds, and in the Nocton Ward, in Lincoln, had been fantastic and the level of care provided by the National Health Service was of the very highest standard. However, the inability to stay at Lincoln in the first place was a worry; it caused

additional stress and meant that Mandy was away from home for 7 weeks, whilst Sam was in Leeds.

The Lincoln BABIES organisation raises money for new equipment for the Nocton Ward of Lincoln Hospital. This enables Lincolnshire families to stay at home when their children are born prematurely. The Lincoln BABIES organisation will form one of three charities to benefit from the herculean efforts of Sqn Ldr Rich Milburn, Flt Lts Martin Bindemann and Jonathan Jarvis and FS Paul Jones of 56(R) Sqn who will undertake the ‘Trinity Challenge’ this autumn. The challenge comprises the Paras “P Company Challenge”, a 10 mile run around Catterick Training Area loaded with a 35lb bergen, followed by the Chester marathon and then finishing with the Ring of Steel in Scotland in mid-October.

The 56(R) Sqn team will also raise money for ‘Hounds for Heroes’, an organisation that aims to provide specially trained assistance dogs to injured and disabled men and women of both the uk armed forces and civilian emergency services. Through this provision its aims are to provide help and practical support leading to an enhanced quality of life for their clients. Initially ‘Hounds for Heroes’ intends to raise £100,000 to buy 5 Labradors; these dogs will be carefully selected for all the qualities needed to produce excellent assistance dogs. The Charity will carefully select puppy parents to start with this very essential part of their training. After approximately 15 months, the specialist training will start, with a combination of puppy parents and the new owner. All the time the puppies will be meeting on a weekly basis to carry out socialisation and specialist training. When the dogs are fully trained the ownership will be fully transferred to the new owner.

In addition, 56(R) Sqn will support Cancer Research uk who, every year, spend hundreds of millions of pounds on research into diagnosing, preventing and treating cancer. They are the biggest single independent funder of cancer research in Europe, supporting the work of more than 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses across the uk.

ChaLLEngE

Sam shortly after Birth

Sam with his little brother Max this summer

Please help 56(R) Sqn and these worthy causes by sponsoring the team at

justgiving.com/trinity-challenge or on one of the sponsorship forms around the station. Alternately, please e-mail support to AWC-56RSqn Int Exp1a.

weekly in: Boston, Lincoln, Newark, Dunholme, Spilsby, Scunthorpe, Gainsborough and Nocton

PiLot sChoLarshiP

CoUrsE 7 2012Being part of the Air cadets has allowed me to develop myself in areas I would never have otherwise been unable to. Many opportunities have been presented to me and each I have embraced as I knew they were unique.

R ecently I was successful in my application for a gliding scholarship at RAF Syerston. On completing the initial scholarship I began working

as a volunteer and have now almost completed my training to become a graded glider pilot; this means I will soon fly with Air Cadets on their first few sorties, I am really looking forward to flying with members of 1237 Squadron. All of this experience has been absolutely incredible; however, the ultimate opportunity still awaited me: the Air Cadet Pilot Scholarship is the absolute pinnacle of what the Air Cadets has to offer. It comprises a 12 hour flying scholarship with Tayside Aviation, flying a Grob 115 Heron, only 7 of which fly today. Accommodation is provided at the Dundee Hilton Hotel, on arrival at the hotel the very first brief reminds you that you are one of a very fortunate few who are ‘worthy’ of such a tremendous opportunity. We went on to meet our assigned instructors; I was pleased to find that my primary instructor was also the Chief Flying Instructor who had 14,000 hours flying experience.

On the first day my three peers and I were shown the ropes: the day to day tasks that needed to be carried out in order to get flying as soon as possible. We would park the aircraft in a row outside the hangar and begin to complete checks to ensure each aircraft was serviceable. With an important exam to pass before we could take our first solo flight we then proceeded to revise in our

cadet building. The first day was full of learning and getting to grips with the new lifestyle that I would have for the next two weeks. The sun shined all day and I, along with my roommate, decided to make the most of it and read through our books whilst looking on at our peers taking to the skies. As the sun began to set, my instructor was yet to land. I wondered if I may miss my chance to take to the skies. But on his arrival I was told to climb into the aircraft as we were going flying! Checks complete and having been cleared to ‘Taxi, line up, and wait runway 27.’ I prepared myself to taste what would soon become the ‘norm’. We took to the sky, the only aircraft flying for miles around, learning the basics of the aircraft and enjoying the scenery, the sunset and the instructor. All too quickly the hour was up and it was time to return to base. Our spirit o was high as we departed at 8pm for the Hilton hotel where we would have tea and socialise, talking of our individual experiences and exchanging stories, happy and secure in the knowledge that the next day we would be doing it again!

As days passed we accumulated our hours. I was nearing the time of my written exam: the one I had revised for all the previous week. It covered five different subjects: air law, radiotelephony, emergencies, aircraft technical, and navigation. If this exam was failed there was no solo, it was that simple. The half hour that passed whilst my exam was marked seemed like an eternity; silence was cast over the cadet room when the examiner walked in to give the results. My heart sank as they looked at me with disappointment, only to announce my result of 92%!

Air Cadet Pilot Scholarships are a rarity and I am very grateful and feel privileged to have been awarded this fantastic opportunity to complete a course with the prospect of flying solo in a Grob 115 Heron within 12 hours of training. I forged some fantastic new friendships with my peers; we supported one another throughout the course, particularly when it came to revising for our exam. The instructors were amazing and were an inspiration to us all. There was much to learn, and the learning curve was tremendous, but each and every day was so exhilarating and highly rewarding. This was a lifestyle I happily adapted to. I will remember the scholarship, the experiences and all the people I had the pleasure to meet for many, many years.

Sgt Cameron Still

AIR CAdeT

aNNUaL advENTUrE training CaMP

On 21st July 2012, four cadets

from 1237 Squadron attended

the annual adventure training

camp with Trent Wing

at Windermere.

The week involved lots of outdoor activities which were

thoroughly enjoyed by all the cadets who attended. After a long

journey to the National Air Cadet Adventure Training Centre

in Windermere, the 29 cadets were split into 3 flights, in which

the majority of activities you did in these groups. We then went

over the road to a park opposite the accommodation in which we

were given some team building exercises to do to learn about the

people in the flight. We also had a task to find a mascot for each

flight within certain boundaries of the park, in which we had to

take with us to all activities. This was a fun challenge for all the

flights. Mascots for the week included a piece of slate, a feather

and a piece of slate with a feather lodged into it.

The camp included activities such as kayaking, rock climbing,

swimming, high ropes course, abseiling, gorge walking, and hill

walking, as well as complimentary activities in the evening, and

free time in which you could socialise with other cadets from the

wing. Each flight did different activities on different days, and the

whole camp participated in the activities on the final two days. This

allowed you to socialise with more people from across the wing.

Cadet Stephanie Riley said, ‘my favourite activity of the camp

was gorge walking. Although it was hard, it was fun jumping into

the rock pools and climbing up the waterfalls.’

As well as participating in activities throughout the week

that you wouldn’t normally get the chance to participate in,

one of my personal favourite parts about camp is meeting

lots of new people throughout the wing. This also improves

personal skills such as confidence, as you get to talk to and

meet lots of new people, which is an important skill that can

be gained by all cadets.

I would definitely recommend this camp to every single cadet

on the Squadron, as we all had an excellent time and met some

new friends that we will keep in touch with for life. If you would

like to spend a week outdoors and embrace the fantastic resources

the Lake District has to offer you, getting the opportunity to

meet other cadets from the wing, then apply for a place at the

NACATC Windermere camp next year!

InsIghtMAGAZINE 21

On the first day, the second group including Cadets Nock, Jackson, Rawlings, Ions, Corporal Burrell and a teddy acting as Corporal Brandt (who unfortunately got left

behind),managed to get lost for about 10 minutes. As the first group, Cadets Clark, Wildman, Bachelor and Corporal Gilkes did really well, kept up a good pace and steamed ahead through a long journey. On the second day, being really lucky once again with great weather the second group worked better as a team, other than getting stuck in a sheep field, chased by sheep and

cows and experiencing the taste of stream water, we managed to finish over two hours early.

Shortly after followed group 1. Travelling through Eyam on the second day was really interesting for both groups as that’s where the plague happened and many houses had signs telling us who died in them. Part of the walk encompassed walking past the Riley family’s grave, which were first, minus the mother, to die in the plague. It was really nice to see it in good condition as they died in 1666. The last day wasn’t as good as the weather took a turn for

the worst and decided to rain. Half way through our journey at Edensor the path we was supposed to take was blocked so we had a challenge to create a major detour, finally reaching Bakewell after an hour of planning and waiting for the assessor to check the new route the second group ended up in the middle of a golf course after a few slips and falls from Corporal Burrell. Soon after arriving at the mini bus was the first group waiting patiently. Finally it was time to go home after an amazing eventful weekend. On behalf of all of us who attended thank you to Ma’am, Sir, Shadow (the dog), CI Onn and Flight Sergeant Love for being supportive.

By Corporal Delane Burrell

On Saturday 14thJuly, Nine cadets attended the silver Duke of Edinburgh in the Peak District.

InsIghtMAGAZINE 25

FLYing thE FLagFLYing thE FLag

F light Sergeant Antony Wingate (33) from 8 Squadron RAF Waddington had a starring role right at the heart of the Olympic action as a member

of the London 2012 Flag Raising Team. Antony, who lives in Edwinstowe, on the

outskirts of Mansfield, was a member of the team responsible for leading the procession with the medal winners’ national flags. During the Fencing and Taekwondo, Antony

was responsible for mounting the winners’ flags onto the trapeze ready for the medal presentation and national anthem.

Flight Sergeant Antony Wingate said:“It’s an honour and a privilege to take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity. To represent the Royal Air Force in this manner is one of the proudest moments of my life.”

Flight Sergeant Wingate was also part of the same team at the Powerlifting event during the Paralympics.

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THE dOUbLEwADDINGTON sCOOps

THE dOUbLE!!RAF Waddington scooped the double at the recent 1 Gp Awards Dinner on 19 July at HQ Air Command, RAF High Wycombe.

InsIghtMAGAZINE 27

The challenge is on to see if Waddington can ‘do the double’ again next year, or like Liverpool FC in 1984 and 2001... perhaps the Treble??!!

J ust like Liverpool FC in 1977, 1984 and 1986, after much hard work and effort, RAF Waddington was able to scoop the ‘double’, courtesy of No 8 Sqn (Sentry) and No 14 Sqn (Shadow).

After transferring from No 2 Gp to No 1 Gp on 1 Jan 2012, RAF Waddington featured for the first time at the 1 Gp Dinner Awards Dinner alongside the fast-jet fleet. RAF Waddington itself, its people, its units and sqns were eligible for a variety of 1 Gp Awards covering Staff Excellence, Air Land Integration, Air Maritime Integration, Force Development, Operational Innovation, Engineering Excellence, Operational Command, Operational Performance and MOB Excellence. These Awards were all made possible by sponsors from MBDA, Selex, Fujitsu, Rolls Royce, Cobham, Lockheed Martin, Goodrich ISE Systems, BAE Systems and Thales uk.

The Station Commander at RAF Waddington, Gp Capt Al Gillespie, was proud to be able to ‘lift’ the trophies for both Engineering Excellence (Sqn Ldr Steve Deith, No 8 Sqn Eng) and Operational Performance (Number 14 Squadron). Squadron Leader Steve Deith, late Senior Engineering Officer of Number 8 Squadron, was awarded the Engineering Excellence Award for his inspirational leadership and evolution of the Sentry Component. The award is sponsored by Rolls Royce and presented by Mrs Jane Bailey, who praised Sqn Ldr Deith for raising the morale of his Sqn and challenging ingrained practices and procedures, as well as enabling Sentry to deploy on Op DEFERENCE at 24-hrs notice and transitioning seamlessly into Op ELLAMy, from an engineering perspective. Although this Award was bestowed up the individual rather than the Sqn or team, Sqn Ldr Deith said: “….this award would certainly not have been achievable without a first-rate team behind me”. Nobody achieves this kind of recognition alone...it is down to the commitment and total professionalism of the No 8 Sqn Engineering personnel.”

No 14 Sqn became the recipients of the second award given to RAF Waddington that evening. No 14 Sqn, the third most senior Sqn in 1 Gp, received the Award for Operational Performance sponsored by MBDA and presented by Mr Cliff Waldwyn. OC No 14 Sqn, Wing Commander Richard Moir, was delighted to hear the news and later said: “No 14 Sqn was reformed in Oct 11 as a Shadow R1 Sqn and has since provided ISTAR on numerous operations. It has been a huge effort in such a short period of time, and winning the No 1 Gp Op Performance Award is a great honour and tremendous recognition for the air and ground crews who have performed outstandingly in such a demanding period. We now look forward to the challenge of retaining the Award.”

The challenge is on to see if Waddington can ‘do the double’ again next year, or like Liverpool FC in 1984 and 2001... perhaps the Treble??!!

Community matters

By Mr John Ferguson

‘Wow what a Summer it’s been!’ Okay, I know I’m not referring to the weather which has been miserable but it definitely did not detract from a great summer for families at RAF Waddington.

I said in the last edition of Insight that Community Support Squadron (CSS) would be flat out hosting events over the summer and I wasn’t exaggerating. This summer has

definitely been our busiest ever, and as I write this, we haven’t finished yet. This years’ summer programme has been really well received and without doubt we have reached a larger number of Service families than ever before. The highlights for me were definitely the three really successful and well attended joint ‘Deployed’ families and Airplay youth club trips to yorkshire Wildlife Park, Fantasy Island and the ever popular trip Alton Towers but there really has been so much going on it’s been difficult to choose.

As in previous years this summer has seen a comprehensive ‘Airplay’ programme of holiday activities for dependent children, which for the main was creative, well attended and very popular with families although disappointingly, the flagship events which were to be two residential outward bounds visits, were cancelled

due to insufficient interest. Whether this was lack of interest from young people or from parents, it remains to be seen but we will try again in early 2013 and see if we can do better.

Of particular note in the youth activities programme, was a well attended and well supported ‘Station Tour’ which went down really well with young people and incorporated visits to Fire Section, V(AC) Squadron, Air Traffic and Number 8 Squadron. As you can see from the photos, young people really did enjoy all the visits, particularly designing their own aeroplanes but my thanks go out to all hosting personnel, Flight Lieutenant Mark Scott, Pilot Officer Val klejnow, Sergeant Tim Oliver, Sergeant Dave Evans and Corporal Jim Millington who took the time to host the tour and provide young people with an insight of the day to day business of the Station. It’s really strange to think that although their parents may work at RAF Waddington, many dependant children and young people don’t necessarily know what their parents do or even

where they work. The Station Tour was a great way to address that and will almost certainly be something we will do again.

Possibly the largest and most well supported event this summer was the ‘National Families Week’ event, held in partnership with 4Children, our nursery day care and extended schools provider on Station. For the first time at Waddington, on 28 August a formal event was planned and not withstanding concerns about the weather, maximum effort went into organising and hosting a day that will long live in the memory. At our first attempt at a 0-19 and families ‘partnership’ event, I have to say I was delighted with what we were able to arrange and with a strong attendance at the event, it is easy to say that families were pleased too.

The event which for a change, was blessed with good weather was a real ‘partnership’ event on every level and a big success. A huge number of children, young people and families attended the event

28 InsIghtMAGAZINE

with a large number of children from the nursery, holiday club and youth club joining in with activities. 4Children arranged for ‘Rand Farm’ to visit with some of their animals and generously put on a fantastic buffet lunch for everyone attending. A big well done should go out to Damian, the 4Children chef for putting on a great spread and even coming back into work from holiday, to plan the catering. Hugely popular on the day was the ‘Go-kart Party, battery powered go-karts on an inflatable track but ably supported by other members of the community such as the Deployed Families Group, with Mrs Alison Drury hosting arts & crafts, and Mrs Cath Gillespie running the SSAFA Volunteers stand and selling a huge amount of cakes, tea, coffee and raffle tickets. Other notable attendees were the Royal Air Force Police Community Policeman, Corporal Paul Slater and Flight Lieutenant Graham Orme from the Station Fencing Team. Special thanks (I think!) should go out to Corporal Slater who managed to breathalyse and handcuff children to their hearts content and fit numerous children simultaneously into his vehicle while deafening everyone else for an hour with ‘blues and two’s’ ablaze. Thanks Paul!

The other main activity planned for the day formed part of the ‘Airplay’ activities programme for children aged 8+. ‘Parkour’, better known to some as street running, involved the North kesteven Outreach team who were hired to come along with their equipment and run a session for our older children and young people. As it turned out, the activity was so popular and exciting, many of our young children wanted to have a go, and with parents cheering them on, most of the children and young people at the event did exactly that. How children as young as 4 or 5 can throw themselves around and over boxes and balance beams, I’ll never know but they did and they all had a great time. It should be noted that although this was an activity planned for those aged 8+, great flexibility was shown by Nk staff, allowing everyone (including me to have a go) but my thanks go out to our older young people who allowed their activity to be ‘hijacked’ but still managed to participate and have a great time. Well done! Thank you to everyone who played their part in a really successful inaugural event that hopefully will be the first of many.

you might be forgiven for thinking that Community Support Squadron have a whale of a time over the summer, going on deployed trips and hosting fun days etc. and you would be exactly right. There is however, a serious side to our work and a business as normal approach to the summer overall. Over the summer Community Support Squadron staff have continued to deliver as normal across all areas on Station, community arrivals briefings, road show events, delivering Non Formed unit and Family Pre-deployment Briefings and have even been out to Royal Air Force College Cranwell to brief some of the personnel and families of 7006 Intelligence Reserves Squadron, as part of one of their regular training weekends. With many reservists’ families as affected by operational deployments as regular Service personnel, we are keen to ensure all of our ‘Waddington community’ is aware of the support available to them. Supporting families

affected by deployment or separation through duty is always our first priority and if you want more information on support available please request this through the HIVE on 01522 727675.

I’m sure that throughout what remains of 2012 and into 2013, that there will much more to report to you from a community perspective but please remember, if you have any comments or questions or more importantly suggestions on what we can do to further improve our services, please get in touch with any member of the Community Support Team. your feedback and suggestions are always welcome.

Best Wishes

John FergusonHead of Community Supportjohn.ferguson733@mod.uk

douBLE-WhaMMYIsTAR 20,000 HOuRs

In an impressive double gold for RAF Waddington, No 5 (AC) Squadron and No 14 Squadron have notched up 10,000 flying hours each whilst

protecting British and Coalition forces in Afghanistan since 2009.

A lthough Shadow R1 aircraft have been operating from RAF Waddington since July 2009, No 14 Squadron only officially reformed on

14th October 2011. After gaining a fifth aircraft in December 2011, the Squadron flew its 10,000th operational hour on 19th July 2012.

Wing Commander Rich Moir, Officer Commanding No 14 Squadron said:

“Marking the 10,000th operational hour for the Shadow R1 is very important as it is a significant milestone, and stands as testament to the hard work, dedication and determination of all those associated with the success of this unique platform. Since it was first introduced into service it has had an outstanding serviceability rate and has delivered consistently over the skies of Afghanistan. It is an achievement that all associated with the project should be very proud of.”

Similarly, on 14 August 2012, Sentinel R1 hit the milestone of 10,000 operational hours in support of British and Coalition troops.

Impressively, more than half of these hours have been clocked up since May 2011, which demonstrates the operational tempo of the Squadron over the last year.

In a competitive tone worthy of this Olympic year, Flt Lt McCartney, No 5 (AC) Squadron Airborne Mission Commander said: “10,000 hours is a major milestone for any Squadron and, as the RAF’s leading ISR Squadron, it has particular resonance. With our high operational output over the last 3 years, there are very few Squadrons that can match our contribution in both Afghanistan and Libya. All of our personnel are proud to serve on this fine Squadron.”

Looking more broadly at what Sentinel’s accomplishment means, Wg Cdr Al Marshall, Officer Commanding No 5 (AC) Squadron said: “The achievement of 10,000 flying hours since the recent introduction of the Sentinel capability, highlights the significant commitment by, and excellent teamwork between, Squadron personnel, industry and our other supporting organisations.…the rate of effort, particularly when Sentinel was

simultaneously deployed to both Afghan and Libyan theatres has been exceptional, and has delivered a superb contribution to Defence and reinforced the overall importance of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance capabilities.”

Saluting the success of both Squadrons the Station Commander, Group Captain Al Gillespie said: “The search capabilities of Sentinel and Shadow have provided uk and Coalition partners with an unprecedented insight into the unique operating environment of Afghanistan. The ability to search vast areas and provide real-time information to others has led to more efficient and effective application of other military capabilities such as Remotely Piloted Air Vehicles, Coalition helicopter-borne forces, light-armed reconnaissance vehicles and combat aircraft.”

“Its superb capabilities with its ground-mapping radar and ability to detect personnel and vehicle movements from many miles away have led to some ground forces describing it as ‘go/no-go’ asset for their operations; meaning that without Sentinel, they would not continue.”

sEAlRoyal

Once again karts 50 and 51 made it to the grid and after a strong showing in free practice on the Friday and Saturday morning. Cpl Tim Johnson and SAC Chris Broadwith had the task of driving 50 “Vulcan” with CT Andy Rendell, Cpl

Paul Cree and SAC Gaz Roberts in 51 “Nimrod”.qualifying was a mixed affair with Andy putting Nimrod 16th on the

grid out of the 31 teams, but a mystery fault with Vulcan slowed it down the fast straights of Shenington dropping Tim down to a disappointing 20th.

The two hour endurance race started with both karts having good starts and different strategies, with Chris and Tim doing two 30 minutes stints and Andy, Paul and Gaz doing 40 minutes each.

Vulcan’s speed problems very quickly cleared and started eating into field, sadly 2 spins due to it’s over exuberant driver hampered some of its early progress.

Steady and consistently fast driving from Andy had Nimrod up into 9th at there first driver change and Gaz continued that trait before passing Nimrods controls to Paul.

Tim in Vulcan kept out of trouble as some of the other teams had comings together and mechanical problems which kept them in the pits for several laps for repairs or retiring them altogether.

Vulcan and Nimrod finished 15th and 16th only 30 seconds apart and after completing over 100 lap’s each.

After a five race season RAF Waddington where delighted to finish 5th overall out of the other RAF stations, Army units and Navy team.

Army 194 points RAF Cosford 181 points RAF Marham 145 points RAF Brize Norton 118 points RAF WADDINGTON 85 points RAF Conningsby 81 points RAF Digby 73 points RAF Valley 64 points Arborfield Garrison 63 points Royal Navy 29 points RAF Lossiemouth 20 points REME Corp 12 points

The whole team would like to thank the station for there support during the season, especially Station Gym, MT, workshops and the Nuffield Trust.

The team now go into the winter break and will get the karts ready to step up and challenge for a top 3 finish next year.

kartingThe 5th round of the RAFMSA

karting event was held at Shenington

Airfield in Oxfordshire and with this being

the final round, the team from Waddington

needed a strong finish to their debut season

to end as high up the table as possible.

sEAl

H is Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex visited RAF Waddington on Tuesday 9th October to present a selection of Honours and Awards to Station personnel; some of whom have recently returned from Operations

in Afghanistan. The Earl of Wessex is RAF Waddington’s Honorary Air Commodore a title bestowed by Her Majesty the queen in October 2008.

Senior Aircraftsman (SAC) Luke Shingler (24) was presented with a campaign medal having recently returned from an operational tour in Afghanistan.

SAC Shingler said: “I was incredibly proud to receive my campaign medal and it was

a real honour to have it presented to me by His Royal Highness. It’s a day to remember for me and my family.”

known for taking a keen personal interest in the base’s personnel and their families His Royal Highness spent time chatting with award recipients following the presentation.

apprOvaLOF

Royal

padre’s patterI arrived at RAF Waddington at the beginning of August as one of the Station Chaplains. After a month of being here I feel that I am starting to feel at home.

By Padre Steve Radley

I n the last year I have moved five times: Wakefield to College Hall Mess at Cranwell; from there to Daedalus Mess; Daedalus to the

Officers Mess at Marham; Officers Mess to house at Marham; Marham to Cranwell (because like many of you I couldn’t get a house at Waddington). Hopefully I will be calling RAF Waddington home for a couple of years.

I am fairly new to the Royal Air Force and I came through SERE (the “vicars and tarts” course at Cranwell) last summer after serving 5 years, 2 months and 22 days in HM Prison Wakefield. Previous to that I had pastoral charge of three churches and was the Free Church Chaplain at HMP Newhall.

The role of the Padre is diverse and I have had the benefit of following my colleagues around and observing their input before I am let loose on you all. However, I have already walked alongside various members of personnel and their families in a variety of situations. I look forward to journeying with many more of you during my time here.

I have also been attending and leading some of the services on Sunday mornings at the Church of the Resurrection.

It would appear that a female chaplain is causing a bit of uncertainty with regards to greeting. I have a funny feeling that this might be something to do with my colleague Padre Alex… The term ‘Padre’ is a generic term used for chaplains in the military. Whilst literally it means ‘Father’ the sentiment behind it means an ordained figure/priest. So Padre is fine! (But “Madre” is much funnier – Ed).

A few things about myself that you may find interesting: I go skiing every year, I have walked on fire, I have skied off a mountain and landed on a frozen lake and I had my head shaved shiny bald for charity. If you want to know any more then I guess you will have to come and talk to me!

I hope to be visiting as many areas of the station as possible in the next few weeks. However, don’t be shy and if you want a padre to visit your area then by all means ring us and let us know.

32 InsIghtMAGAZINE

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InsIghtMAGAZINE 33

Champions, Llamas and farewellRarely, if ever, can a pipe band say it was rivalled in spectacle by… dancing llamas.

H owever, that was the challenge for the RAF Waddington Pipes and Drums, invited to play at kirkcudbright Tattoo, a musical finale to a week of holiday celebration in

the small fishing town in Scotland’s Dumfries and Galloway region.

Hundreds of townspeople and holidaymakers packed the arena area by the harbour on Monday, August 27, as singers, musicians and the Black Rock Dancing Llamas Display Team staged a colourful

evening’s entertainment which ended with a rousing massed bands finale led by pipers and drummers from RAF Waddington along with the kirkcudbright and District Pipe Band.

It may come as no surprise, though, that the greatest applause went to … those remarkable llamas!

The engagement was also a poignant milestone for Waddington-based Flight Sergeant Hugh Higgins – it was the last band function he played as a serving However, that was the challenge for the RAF Waddington Pipes and Drums, invited to play at kirkcudbright Tattoo, a musical finale to a week of holiday celebration in the small fishing town in Scotland’s Dumfries and Galloway region.

Hundreds of townspeople and holidaymakers packed the arena area by the harbour on Monday, August 27, as singers, musicians and the Black Rock Dancing Llamas Display Team staged a colourful evening’s entertainment which ended with a rousing massed bands finale led by pipers and drummers from RAF Waddington along with the kirkcudbright and District Pipe Band.

It may come as no surprise, though, that the greatest applause went to… those remarkable llamas!

The engagement was also a poignant milestone for Waddington-based Flight Sergeant Hugh Higgins – it was the last band function he played as a serving member of Her Majesty’s forces. Hugh retired five days later.

The event was even more emotional for piper Hugh, 49, as kirkcudbright is his home town and the enthusiastic crowd cheered him loudly as he and the band marched, playing, into the arena.

Hugh has completed 29 years service his last posting being 56(R) Squadron here at Waddington. He has seen Operational Service on;

Operation PALLISER, Sierra Leone, on board HMS Illustrious with a very small elite team from the Joint Forces Air Component (JFAC).

Operation TELIC with 1 Air Control Centre (1ACC) in Iraq

Operation HERRICk, twice with 1ACC in Afghanistan.

We wish Hugh success with his new civilian life and are very pleased that he his living locally and will continue as a piper in the band.

Well done to all the participants in this seasons competitions, it ended on a great winning high with RAF Waddington being declared (once again) ‘All England Champions’.

SSAFA is a well known name in the Forces environment, but not everyone knows what the Soldier’s, Sailor’s, Airman’s and Families Association actually does.

A s a national organisation, SSAFA provides a multitude of services including; children’s holidays, Norton Homes accommodation for

the families of injured personnel, assistance for ex-service personnel, housing assistance and much more. The SSAFA website, www.ssafa.org, details all the services available nationwide.

More locally, our In-Service Committee represents the interests of serving personnel and their families here at Waddington, Digby and Scampton. Our volunteers are available to offer practical assistance or just a friendly face and someone to talk to. We are fortunate to have an amazing group of volunteers willing to give their free time to help others, but we always need new recruits. Whether it is as a trained volunteer, as a committee member or as part of the fundraising sub-committee, we are pleased to welcome serving personnel, dependents or members of the wider community. As well as taking direct requests for

assistance we work alongside our professional colleagues, Vanda and Ali, who are located in the IWF (Hive) and they hold the role of SSAFA Personal Support and Social Work Service.

The role of SSAFA Forces Help Personal Support & Social Work Service is to ensure that RAF stations in the uk have a first line of SSAFA Forces Help contact. We are civilian social work professionals trained specifically to provide a confidential and impartial welfare service to RAF personnel, their families, and other service personnel on RAF stations.

We provide support for many issues that may be causing you concern and anxiety including the following:• Hospitalisation and Long-term sickness

absence.• Family/relationships/personal

difficulties.• Stress/anxiety/depression.• Debt/financial/benefit advice.• Illness/disability/additional needs• Housing/resettlement/medical

discharges.• Bereavement/loss/grief.• Equal opportunities/discrimination harassment.• Support groups/liaison with other appropriate/specialist agencies.• Child care issues.• Adoption.

Our service is flexible to adapt to the needs of individuals, for instance some people require one off advice whereas others are more complex and require us to act on their behalf by advocating, writing letters or reports. We can provide home visits as well as office appointments and if we cannot help with particular issues we can refer to a more appropriate agency.

So if your family require emotional and/or practical support or just someone with the time to listen in confidence, please contact us.

Sergeant Andy SowerbyI started volunteering with SSAFA in 1998 on the children’s additional needs holidays. One of the most nerve racking days of my life was sitting waiting for the child I had been paired up with and would be responsible for, for the next 5 days. I needn’t have worried; I was hooked and carried on volunteering until 2008.

Late 2007 I applied to become a community volunteer at RAF Brize Norton. It was not long after completing the volunteer course that I became the committee secretary. Naively I thought this would involve minute taking and not much else, but I soon discovered the secretary is there to support the chairperson. This increased the workload a little, but it also increased my awareness of how the volunteer groups worked.

On being posted to RAF Waddington in June 2010 I requested to transfer to the local committee, attending my first meeting in the September. This was quite an interesting time to join as the Waddington, Scampton, and Digby committees were amalgamating. In April last year I went on a course to become the committee fundraiser for RAF Waddington.

I was set the task of raising £1000/year to enable the committee to function. This initially seemed rather daunting, but with the generosity of RAF Waddington personnel we’ve already surpassed that. you may have seen us in our blue SSAFA t-shirts on the main gate, in mess foyers or selling cakes around station.

This year I’m looking further a field for support- I’m hoping to hold a street collection in Lincoln in May or June and the RAF Waddington Voluntary band have generously named SSAFA as a benefactor for one of their concerts. I have also started working with the local ex-service committee to see how best we can raise both awareness and funds.

Carol Hughes – Community Volunteer Co-ordinatorI have been a part of the Waddington/Digby/Scampton SSAFA organisation since its inception 3 years ago having served in several posts on the committee and I am currently the Community Volunteer Co-ordinator. The role is a busy one which primarily entails being the link between the Service Committee, welfare agencies and the Community Volunteers. As Co-ordinator I am supervised by the regional Volunteer Development Manager ensuring all SSAFA polices are adhered to.

I am responsible for recruiting and selecting the volunteers and although we

have quite a few, we are always looking for more willing helpers, especially in the Scampton and Digby areas! I make sure

34 InsIghtMAGAZINE

InsIghtMAGAZINE 35

that all our volunteers have received the correct training before they are allowed to represent SSAFA and that they are fully aware of the commitment they are making. knowing all the volunteers well is a key part of doing my job as I have to match up the volunteer with the requests for help. It would not be much good if a volunteer with a fear of dogs were sent to a home with several boisterous pooches resided!

It’s a fantastically rewarding job, except when having to regularly provide statistics to central office, and frequently produces a surprise or two which keeps me on my toes. Our work continues to go from strength to strength with the hard work of our wonderful volunteers. So, if you want to get involved and be part of something really worthwhile, helping someone in their hour of need, please do become a volunteer – we would love for you to join us!

Finally, (from Cath)Thank you to those who have supported us so far this year. After the earlier success of the Bacon Butties event, we have decided to incorporate another into our Big brew on 11 Oct – more details to follow!

SSAFA In-Service is now the proud owner of a beautiful shiney white marquee! It measures 6m x 4m and is available for private hire at a charge of just £20. (Terms and conditions apply). So, if you would like to hire the marquee for either a Sqn BBq or a family party etc then just contact one of the Committee Members who can give you more information. Bookings can be made through Sgt Andy Sowerby on Ext 8039.

We would love for you to join us in whatever role you feel comfortable; perhaps being a case worker is a bit daunting for you but you would like to help with the fundraising. Perhaps you can give one day a fortnight or can only spare an hour every now again – everything you offer is greatly appreciated and we can find jobs for you to do!!!

I hope this gives you an insight into what SSAFA does and that you now know we are here for you if you need us. If you would like to join our expanding Committee you would be very welcome – either as a case worker or as part of our fundraising team - we would love to hear from you.

On Friday 14th September 2012, the mothers of Senior Aircraftman Christopher Bridge and Royal Marine Lance

Corporal Steven James Fellows unveiled a memorial in Shiregreen, Sheffield. This was dedicated to their sons who had lost their lives in Afghanistan, and to all others who had given their lives in the service of their country from the same community..

Previously, there had not been a war memorial in Shiregreen; at the ceremony the former Home Secretary David Blunkett MP paid tribute to the drive and determination of Nicolette Williams and Ann Fellows who campaigned and raised funds for the

Friday 14th September, Shiregreen Sheffield.

memorial. During this poignant ceremony a lament was played by Pipe Major Finlay MacGhee from RAF Waddington.

Senior Aircraftman Christopher Bridge from C flight, 51 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment, was killed by an explosion while on night patrol outside kandahar airfield on August 30, 2007.

Lance Corporal Jamie Fellows was killed in action on Friday 12 December 2008 in Sangin, Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Pictured at the memorial is Chris’s mum Nicolette Williams, Pipe Major Finlay MacGhee from RAF Waddington and friends from 51 Squadron RAF Regiment who travelled down from RAF Lossiemouth.

Our service is flexible to adapt to the needs of individuals, for instance some people require one off advice whereas others are more complex and require us to act on their behalf...

ChRIS BRIdgeUNvEILING MEMOrIaL

Set to become an annual fixture for RAF Waddington I hope this article encourages wider participation from the station for future years.

Day 1Departing RAF Waddington TDF at 1630, we headed to board the ‘Pride of Hull’ Ferry to Rotterdam. Rocked to sleep by the rolling waves, we awoke bright and early to the ear piercing tannoy announcing our arrival.

Day 2We took the 2 hour drive directly to Wolfheze to begin the stands. FS Matson provided an overview of Operation Market Garden. Beginning on 17 Sep 1944 it was anticipated to mark the end of WWII and bring victory by Christmas. As events transpired, the plan failed in epic proportions and the desire to capture the road bridge at Arnhem was a ‘bridge too far.’

Following lunch we proceeded to Hartenstein Hotel, the home of the Airborne Museum. Cpl

Jones delivered his stand within the gardens, exploring how the main commander Montgomery, and urquhart, commander of the British 1st Airborne Division, demonstrated the nine leadership attributes of the RAF. It was concluded that although both men were courageous and strong war fighters, they also had their flaws which impacted on Market Garden.

After wandering around the memorials, we took the short journey to Arnhem Bridge, the ‘bridge too far.’ Cpl McDonnell presented his stand on the communications problems experienced. Landing 8 miles from the bridge, the British 1st Airborne encountered a variety of issues meaning they were unable to capture it, losing 8000 men as a result.

Already developing an overview of Market Garden’s issues, we retired to our Hotel in Zevenaar, recharging our batteries before another packed day.

Day 3Travelling towards Nijmegan, we arrived at De Oversteek or ‘The Crossing.’ Cpl Hall delivered a stand on the 82nd Airborne Divisions attempts to cross the water. Looking out across the wide river and seeing the distance and open terrain to

the Nijmegan Bridge, we imagined the terror the soldiers must have felt conducting the operation

in broad daylight in collapsible canvas boats.Proceeding to the Liberty Museum in

On 19 Sep 12, thirteen RAF Waddington personnel departed on Ex ARNHEM REMEMBERED to participate in a staff ride coinciding

with the 68th anniversary of Operation Market Garden.

AnnIveRSARy oF oPEration MarkEt gardEn68Th

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InsIghtMAGAZINE 37

Overloon, Sgt Belben and Sgt Martin discussed the Link up plan of XXX Corps, transiting a 64 mile corridor to reach the Airborne troops at Arnhem Bridge by D+4 to assist in the breakout and proceed towards Belgium. With limited flexibility in the plan, XXX Corps encountered unexpected German resistance and implications at nearly all of the crossings. Their failure to reach Arnhem in the expected timeframe had a severe impact on the Airborne Division, who were fighting with limited equipment and support. Looking around the Liberty Museum and grounds, we developed an understanding of the impact the four year German occupation had on Holland, and how important liberation was when it occurred in Oct 1944.

Continuing to Grave, we found a small Air Monument where Cpl Earrey delivered his stand on ISTAR and intelligence gathering across the Netherlands in WWII. Moving onto a field in Wolfheze which provided the setting to one of the para drop zones, Cpl Christie and Cpl Connor discussed the use of Air Power in the operation. Heavy bombing took place over the German occupied airfields in northern Holland, and transport command were responsible for delivering the significant number of troops to the front line. Again many problems arose, not least the prolonged drops over three as opposed to one day and the significant distances of the drop zones from the bridges.

As the sun began to set on a long day, we made our way down a quiet lane and found the field where a Dakota piloted by Flt Lt Lord was shot down. SAC Rendall explained that prior to the aircraft exploding, the aircrew managed to make 8 drops over the area to provide vital resupplies to the ground troops. Flt Lt Lord died along with six of his crew, the navigator being the sole survivor who was captured as a POW. The brave story did not come to light until F/O king was released and as a result, Flt Lt Lord was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross.

Leaving the site we all reflected on the stories we had heard throughout the day, imagining the horror and fear that these men must have felt.

Day 4Returning to the same drop zone as the previous day, the quiet field was now bustling with a variety of people to watch a para drop marking the 68th anniversary of Market Garden. Flt Lt Rowell conducted an impromptu discussion on the logistics of a drop, before being rudely interrupted by the RAF Waddington Pipe Band who was participating in a number of the memorial events. Watching nearly 500 paras jump over a 2 hour period went some way to demonstrate just how large an air drop Market Garden had implemented.

Departing for a quick lunch, we proceeded to the Airborne Museum and made the awkward change in a quiet car park into our Number 1s. We formed up as Rev (Flt Lt) Colley led a small service in front of the Transport Command Memorial along with the RAF Waddington Pipe Band. Following the ceremony we sat down with Alan Hartley, the Veteran who raised £20,000 to put the memorial in place in 2006. An RAF Technician during WWII at Hampney Down, he would regularly go on flights with his aircrew. As Market Garden commenced the aircrew insisted he go along for the ride, but as events transpired he was required elsewhere. As they departed that day for Holland, they never came back. Mr Hartley has lived with that story ever since, raising the funds for a suitable memorial. RAF Waddington heard of his story in recent years and the service will now become an annual fixture in the station calendar, ensuring these men’s legacies live on.

Following the service we were able to look around the museum and take in the sites as many veterans and WWII enthusiasts descended to the area to remember events from 68 years ago.

Day 5Our final day in Holland, we again donned our Number 1s and proceeded to the British Cemetery for a Service of Remembrance. One of the few representatives of the Royal Air Force we stood in a smart formation to watch. The most poignant part of the ceremony was the annual tradition where children walk amongst the graves with flowers to place at each headstone. Following the service, Cpl Connor laid a wreath on behalf of RAF Waddington. Rev (Flt Lt) Colley presented the groups last stand, explaining the repatriation of troop’s pre and post 1960, where the family can now bring the body of the deceased back to the uk.

Another quick change in a muddy car park, we had lunch and warmed up. Prior to departing for the ferry we visited Oosterbeek Church, which served as a casualty post amongst the fierce fighting and looks onto the lower banks of the Rhine where the 1st Airborne were evacuated in late Sep 1944. Flt Lt Rowell concluded what we had learnt on our travels regarding Market Garden. With the benefit of hindsight, we agreed that with the limited communications between commanders and no robust back up plan, it was never likely to succeed. On the other hand, we assessed the Operation brought the four year occupation of Holland to an end, which judging by the warm hospitality provided to the veterans some 70 years on was a successful judgement call. We arrived back in a rainy uk feeling educated, humble and proud to have played some small part in the annual memorials. I urge all personnel from across RAF Waddington to put next years date into the diary to ensure that those who participated in Operation Market Garden nearly 70 years ago are given the respect and remembrance they truly deserve.

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