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FEATURES SPORT

Stn Cdr’s Foreword BBMF - The 2020 Display Season - What Ex Typhoon Malta 18 Group Captain Matt Peterson will it look like for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight? 07 YOUTH XI Sqn , All Change! 08 Airplay Youth Club 19 SQUADRON NEWS 17 (Coningsby) Sqn - 17 Sqn RAFAC Awards Evening 19 12 Sqn - Best Laid Plans... 09 John Egging Trust - Inspiring young people 3(F) Sqn – I love it when a ‘Pan’ comes in uncertain times 20 together... 12 29 Sqn - The heart of the Typhoon OTHER Force 13 Community Support 21 BASE SUPPORT WING SSAFA - Station Leaflet 21 MPGS - 10 years at Coningsby 22 Padre’s Pause - Good News! - Hope will NOT be cancelled 16 7 FP Wing HQ - CAPEVAL 2020 17

I AM DELIGHTED TO CONTRIBUTE TO THIS, MY FIRST EDITION OF ONE-TO-ONE AS THE NEW STATION COMMANDER AND I OFFER MY SINCERE THANKS TO AIR COMMODORE FLEWIN FOR HANDING OVER SUCH AN EXCEPTIONAL STATION IN SUCH EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES.

herefore, let me once plays and an overriding team- again reiterate my based mindset. sincere gratitude for everyone’s incredible I can also assure you there will Tdedication and resilience be no change for change sake; through the ongoing national however, you can expect me to crisis. Your unfaltering be as inquisitive, questioning delivery of QRA, deployed and challenging as I need operations, force generation you all to be. Ultimately, I Editorial & Distribution Team Editor’s Foreword • Flt Lt Laura Smith ISSUE 2 2020 and sustainment remain of want us all to question why critical national importance and we accept poor processes, has been rightly recognised products or performance in WHEN I AGREED TO TAKE ON THE ROLE OF ONETOONE at the highest levels of Service life that we wouldn’t EDITOR EARLIER THIS YEAR, I HAD NO IDEA THAT MY FIRST Defence. Every one of you accept in our private lives. For OFFICIAL EDITION WOULD BE CREATED IN THE MIDDLE OF A has played a crucial part and me, this is the simplest way onetoone GLOBAL PANDEMIC! THE COMPILATION OF THIS EDITION OF you should be justly proud. to explain the aim of ASTRA THE MAGAZINE DURING THIS TIME HAS CERTAINLY PROVED – we need to take ownership Editor Publishers CHALLENGING, DUE TO LOCKDOWN WE HAVE BEEN LIMITED TO Although ongoing restrictions of change - if something Flt Lt Laura Smith Lance Print Ltd, WHAT WE CAN DO. HOWEVER, THIS HASN’T STOPPED THE EVER- will likely persist for some time, can be done better, faster or 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, ACTIVE CONINGSBY COMMUNITY FROM SUBMITTING SOME Kettering NN16 8NL. I wish to share the key areas I with less effort, propose a Deputy Editor GREAT ARTICLES. will direct my focus as I take solution and let’s change it! Fg Off Claire Kelly Tel: 01536 334222 command. Unsurprisingly, Email: [email protected] the Station’s primary output Finally, I wish to recognise www.lanceprint.co.uk Distribution pportunities have arisen country, with our own BBMF helping must remain the safe, effective the tremendous contribution where we may not to celebrate his 100th Birthday (pg7). Lead: Cpl Cooper View onetoone online at and efficient delivery of the your families and loved ones Dep: SAC Charman www.onetooneonline.co.uk previously have seen them task - QRA, contingent ops play in the continued success Team: SAC Braley and we’ve packed this Finally, I’d like to take the time to and readiness, Typhoon Force of the Station. Without their OSummer edition full of positive articles, introduce the magazine’s new deputy Design Growth/IDT and wider Defence incredible support, none of Printed By Amanda Robinson showcasing just what we’ve been able Editor, Fg Off Claire Kelly and thank her Engagement. I firmly believe our achievements are possible Lance Print Ltd to achieve during these uncertain for all her hard work on this edition. cohesion across the Station’s and I look forward to doing 29/30 Stapledon Road, Orton times. XI Sqn have continued their I extend a huge thank you to Flt Lt Whole Force is critical to whatever I can to enhance Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6TD Advertising efforts admirably, despite the current Ben Marlton and Flt Lt Lou Webster enabling this in a sustainable the experience of the wider Tel: 01733 390564 Emma situation, as they welcomed a new OC, for all the effort they have put into and effective manner. RAF Coningsby Family. Lance Print Ltd, Wg Cdr Ward, to the squadron (pg8) the magazine up until now. Until next 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, and the story of Capt (now Hon Col) time, stay safe and enjoy the Summer Kettering NN16 8NL Achieving this requires Best wishes and I look forward Tom Moore and his efforts to raise edition of the onetoone magazine. Tel: (01536) 334221 leadership at all levels, mutual to meeting and working with money for the NHS has united the XI(F) SQN ESCORT USAF B52 FROM 5TH BOMBER WING Email: [email protected] respect for the role everyone you all. Flt Lt Laura Smith DURING LONG RANGE SORITE TO THE BALTICS. 6 ISSUE 2 2020 BBMF onetoone 7 THE 2020 DISPLAY SEASON – WHAT WILL IT LOOK LIKE FOR THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN BBMF MEMORIAL FLIGHT? THE EFFECT OF THE COVID-19 MEASURES ON THE BBMF’S PLANS FOR THE 2020 DISPLAY SEASON IS NOT YET FULLY KNOWN, BUT THERE HAVE ALREADY BEEN POSTPONEMENTS AND CANCELLATIONS OF AIR SHOWS AND OTHER EVENTS THAT THE FLIGHT WAS INTENDING TO SUPPORT.

owever, one recent few people to see Spitfires event that certainly fly in anger. Today they fly H made the news was the peacefully but I remember flypast to mark WWII veteran when they were not with Captain (now honorary peace but with anger.” Colonel) Tom Moore’s 100th With that remarkable birthday after his magnificent moment a distant memory, fund-raising efforts, resulting it is hard to say what the in over £32m for the NHS. rest of the 2020 display Sqn Ldr Discombe flew season will hold. The BBMF Hurricane LF363 and Flt Lt is as disappointed about Andy Preece flew Spitfire the flypast cancellations MK365, whilst Sqn Ldr as anyone, but of Two BBMF aircraft depart RAF Coningsby for Mark Sugden was on the course the reasons are Colonel Tom Moore’s flypast (LAC Iwan Lewis). ground providing additional entirely understood. OC BBMF was tasked to We were also lucky to information to Tom and the Shortly after the produce and maintain a receive all pre-ordered BBC. Captain Tom waved COVID-19 restrictions were singleton flypast capability spares before restrictions as he watched the flypast put in place, the essential for all four fighter pilots were put in place, but all our over his home, telling BBC role of BBMF was discussed, and one Lancaster crew. other major supplies have breakfast: “I’m one of the and from these discussions Luckily the majority managed to keep operating. of fighters were close to With regard to flying, being serviceable but there we have so far managed was considerable amount to conduct successful post of work required on the maintenance air tests (PMAT) heavies. To comply with on three Spitfires (P7, AB the 2m social distancing & MK) and our remaining requirement, work on a few of Hurricane (LF). All four fighter the aircraft was paused and pilots, including now Air Cdre teams have been staggered, Flewin who was promoted reducing the number of as the Typhoon Force personnel in the hangar to Commander, have conducted a minimum. As much of the the requisite currency flights office work as possible has and are now ticking over. been done from home. We also hope to have the All this has made normal Lancaster in the air shortly tasks more challenging for to join the fighters. A new us all. That has been doubly date to gain Public Display so for the Flight’s engineers Authority has not been set and those companies that (at the time of writing this), support us at other locations so, apart from training and around the UK. OC BBMF currency flights, our activities managed to deliver Chipmunk are restricted to conducting WK to Duxford for her flypasts as directed, though scheduled ‘major’ servicing these have not been arranged the day prior to the airfield’s or published in the usual way closure, which also forced as encouraging crowds is not the closure of the Aircraft what’s wanted at this time! Restoration Company (ARCo). However, at present what Fortunately, ARCo has matters is that we all stay now re-opened and Peter fit and well. We will be able Monk Ltd at Biggin Hill has to gather when this is over continued to operate and and the Government deems the ‘major’ for Hurricane PZ it safe to do so, but until is progressing as planned. that time, please stay safe. 8 XI ISSUE 2 2020 12 SQN onetoone 9 XI(F) SQN, ALL CHANGE! 12 SQN - BEST LAID PLANS XI(F) SQUADRON, THE WORLD’S OLDEST, DEDICATED FIGHTER UNIT, HAS HAD ANOTHER INSTEAD OF PENNING THIS ARTICLE FROM A SHINY NEW WATERFRONT OFFICE BUSY PERIOD THIS QUARTER. OVERLOOKING THE FLIGHT-LINE, I FIND MYSELF TYPING IT ON A MODNET LAPTOP IN MY KITCHEN DUE TO COVID19! FLT LT MATTHEW SMITH Flt Lt Brighty’s last flight on XI(F) Sqn. FLT LT JAMES PETERSON e have continued to training. The Squadron also provide considerable congratulates Flt Lt Bass on W manpower in support achieving ‘combat ready’ status, of Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) a hard-won qualification in the and surged ahead at full steam life of a fighter pilot. with ‘combat ready work-up’ XI(F) Squadron has seen sorties and the execution of some experienced operators further readiness preparations depart for new pastures. Sqn to ensure XI(F) remains ready Ldr Heald departed for a role to respond should it be called on 12 Sqn, Flt Lt Jonny Dowen upon. This has occurred against departed on secondment with the backdrop of the COVID-19 BAES to Saudi Arabia and Flt Lt pandemic which has brought Matthew Brighty left us to impart strange times for all. his knowledge onto the new Never, in recent times, has Operational Conversion Unit the Squadron faced a situation (OCU) students. We wish them all in which every individual is the best in their new endeavours.

COVID 19 compliant final flight photograph. We wish him, Claire and Harry every success for the future and can assure him that he will be missed by all. To our new OC, Wg Cdr Ward, we extend the warmest XI(F) Sqn welcome! Looking forward, XI(F) Squadron will continue to hold high readiness and cover QRA with our Coningsby sister squadrons. We look forward to an exciting period of varied and intensive flying, ably assisted by all those at RAF Coningsby whose job it is to deliver world class air power.

Ociores Acrioresque Aquilis

Some of these images were taken pre-COVID19 prior t’s been a very strange few Squadrons and assisting them The engineers have also been to the implementation of weeks as we come to terms with their training. We’re also increasing their numbers as we social distancing. I with a threat that nobody continuing to hone our own grow to two engineering shifts. was training for a few weeks skills and upgrade our pilot’s Welcome to our two Qatari ago. However, as always, we’ve qualifications. Well done to Junior Engineering Officers impacted at such a personal The Squadron has also gained another (with adapted and are continuing to Flight Lieutenant Stu Roberts (JEngO)s, Captain Mohammed level. Despite this, morale some new faces. Sqn Ldr ‘Dick appropriate social deliver our output. who has recently upgraded to Al-Khadairi and Lieutenant has remained high and the the Cat’ Withington and Flt Lt distancing measures in On 12 Squadron we a 4-ship formation and tactical Mubarak Al-Jassim. Also, B-Shift Some of these Squadron has continued to Jonny Meadows joined us fresh place). Wg Cdr Pablo O’Grady, were ready to receive our leader; a difficult qualification is getting bigger - it’s great to adapt. The engineering and from the OCU and significantly the 66th OC of XI(F), handed the images were taken first four Qatari Typhoon to achieve and one that makes have Flight Lieutenant Chris operations staff have continued increased the average age of the baton after leading the Squadron pre-COVID19 prior to pilots who have recently him stand out as one of the Gordon as JEngO B Flight and to generate plenty of aircraft junior pilot cadre. We also extend to war (twice), participating in Ex graduated from the Typhoon best Typhoon pilots on the Flight Sergeant Andy Hawkins the implementation and organise valuable training a warm welcome back to WO ATLC (twice) and Ex RED FLAG, Operational Conversion Force. We’ve also managed to on board. of social distancing. for the flying cadre with Pack, who has returned to pick up leading the Squadron on an air Course on 29 Squadron. Huge grow the team despite of the Let’s hope that we can minimal detrimental impact. the Squadron WO mantle after policing mission in Estonia, and congratulations to them, social distancing. A very warm update you with some news This vital training has included his recent promotion, and SAC doing his fair share of UK QRA! but unfortunately, they are welcome to Squadron Leader of Qatari pilot training next a plethora of qualifications and Jack Johnston who has joined the Wg Cdr O’Grady has moved to Air currently unable to leave Helena Bottrill who has joined time but until then, stay safe re-qualifications, two new QRA Ops team. Command, where he can get to Qatar. So instead of running the Squadron executives as and ‘Ramadan Kareem’. pilots, as well as Flt Lt Wilson Finally, the helm of the see more of his family and reflect their combat ready work-up, Officer Commanding Mission and Flt Lt Bass flying to North finest fighter squadron passed on leading the finest Typhoon the Squadron is hard at work Support Flight from the 12 Squadron - Scotland to conduct weapons from one Officer Commanding to squadron in the RAF. BOTOT. 2 x PWIV delivered onto Garvey Island. delivering support to other Operations Wing at RAF Valley. ‘Leading the Field’ 10 ISSUE 2 2020 onetoone 11

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EYRE & SON LTD Ofsted 2016 1 High Street, Tattershall, Lincolnshire, LN4 4LE Visitors are welcome, please contact us on 01507 568304 www.mareham.lincs.sch.uk ©shutterstock 2017 - yvonnestewarthenderson 12 3(F) SQN ISSUE 2 2020 29 SQN onetoone 13 3 SQN - I LOVE IT WHEN A 29 SQN – THE HEART OF THE TYPHOON FORCE ‘PAN’ COMES TOGETHER WAVING GOODBYE TO 2019, AND FOLLOWING A WELL-EARNED WINTER BREAK, ON FRI 10 APRIL 2020, 3(FIGHTER) SQUADRON, FOR THE FIRST TIME, PREPARED THEIR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2020 HAS SEEN MANY CHANGES AND ACHIEVEMENTS TYPHOON AIRCRAFT READY FOR FLIGHT FROM THEIR BRAND-NEW AIRCRAFT SERVICING ON 29 SQUADRON, ALONG WITH A FAIR SHARE OF CHALLENGES. PAN (ASP) AT ROYAL AIR FORCE CONINGSBY. FG OFF JAMES HODGON FLT LT JUSTIN SUTER ebruary saw two major does not deploy away from for very worthwhile causes, taken its toll on the Squadron. his was a major milestone HAS to the taxiway, and from to, the requirement to provide Total Safety team, who milestones for the Coningsby all that often. It was including: Combat Stress, Defending our skies 24/7 for the Squadron, who low ambient lighting around the concrete slab, water carefully planned for the F Squadron. First, we therefore a pleasure when a Samaritans, RAFA and Sports remains RAF Coningsby’s top T are the last Typhoon the HAS’. Maintenance errors drainage system, lighting, delivery of the ASP, including welcomed Wing Commander small contingent of personnel Relief. This was done through priority, therefore we continue Squadron to operate without were also plausible through line marking and various amending countless orders and Jim Calvert, formally taking were given the opportunity to war-fighter/courageous means: to deliver a flying programme one. “What is an Aircraft inadequate lighting levels. Dirt other safety considerations introducing new procedures over from Wing Commander deploy two aircraft to northern cake baking sales, wearing to provide the vital blood- Servicing Pan?” you may ask. It and stones were being kicked and mechanisms. and a new way of working. Andy Chisholm as the Officer Germany on Ex BALTIC sportswear to work, guessing supply (pilots) to support QRA. is the most valuable, carefully up from fast engine exhaust air The work was completed Unfortunately, due to Commanding on 6 February. GUARDIAN in mid-February. teddy bear names and playing Alongside generating front-line designed aircraft parking (jet efflux) increasing the risk in a timely and safe manner the current global climate the Andy has moved on and The aim of this exercise was to football (although not all at pilots, 29 Squadron members area, used in both civilian of damaging other aircraft and thanks to the efforts of Squadron have been unable to we thank him for all he has develop and enhance tactics, the same time). All on 29 are have played an important and military aviation. It allows their engines. the contractor, Amey, who hold their big grand opening done and wish him the techniques and procedures grateful for the work done role in generating future several aircraft to be prepared Work began in September worked exceptionally hard for the occasion with the Stn best of luck for the future. when operating alongside our by these charities and we citizens, with 8 members of the in proximity for flight. Without 19, which ended up being far to ensure minimal disruption Cdr cutting a ribbon. However, The second milestone was NATO counterparts. This was hope that, although relatively Squadron welcoming in new- one, it is comparable to more complicated than could to 3(F) Squadron operations. this does not detract from the the graduation of our first achieved superbly, with 29 modest, the money raised will borns in 2020. We hope you all attempting to simultaneously have ever been imagined. It A noteworthy mention also accomplishment achieved by course of Qatari pilots who Squadron personnel gaining allow them to continue their enjoyed the flowers, although operate 8 car servicing garages, included, but was not limited goes to the 3(F) Squadron all involved. join the recently reformed 12 invaluable experience by good work. Staying on the they will not help you gain a holding one vehicle each, Squadron in their beautiful, sharing engineering practices sporting theme, Corporal Alice decent night’s sleep! spread out over a long street, big, shiny new building (we and flying alongside Luftwaffe Fisher successfully undertook It is great and humbling rather than one large servicing are not even remotely jealous). Typhoons. German hospitality trials for the Bradford Bulls to see people pulling together garage that can hold and Congratulations to the four was, as always, exceptional. Rugby League team, and will in such a difficult and uncertain service 8 cars concurrently. of them and all the best for Well done all. be representing them this time. Hopefully by the time Due to the lack of an the future! The first quarter of 2020 season in the Women’s Super of the next issue we will ASP, the Squadron were Although routine business also saw Squadron personnel League - congratulations Alice! have returned to a degree of previously forced to operate for most other squadrons, the undertake several charitable As with everyone else, normality with plenty more their aircraft from the small Operational Conversion Unit activities, raising money the COVID-19 pandemic has good news to share. Stay safe. entrances to their Hardened Aircraft Shelters (HAS), which Some of these images were are effectively storage shelters taken pre-COVID19 prior to the for up to two aircraft. These implementation of social distancing. are dotted around the 3(F) Squadron footprint. Because of this they encountered several inefficiencies such as parked aircraft blocking routes to the runway, as well as being more manpower intensive. It presented safety risks which the Sqn had to mitigate against, for example the risk of one aircraft colliding with another whilst taxiing due to tight turning circles leading from the 14 ISSUE 2 2020 onetoone 15

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Email: [email protected] 18 SPORT ISSUE 2 2020 YOUTH onetoone 19 AIRPLAY YOUTH CLUB INSPIRING YOUNG PEOPLE BEFORE LOCKDOWN CAME INTO EFFECT, AIRPLAY IN UNCERTAIN TIMES YOUTH CLUB CONINGSBY DID LOTS OF ACTIVITIES BACK IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR, A NUMBER OF PERSONNEL FROM RAF CONINGSBY EVERY WEEK, INCLUDING POOL, DRAWING, THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC HAS GAMES, AND COMMUNITY PROJECTS. WE ARE NOW DISRUPTED THE LIFE OF MANY CHILDREN TOOK PART IN EXERCISE TYPHOON MALTA. CONTINUING THE FUN ONLINE! IN THE UK, BUT THE WELL-BEING OF SOME SAC AAEN ROBINSON n December 2019, we made Spalding and had a Games CHILDREN WILL BE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED and delivered 300 Airplay Day in the Community Centre BY MORE THAN THE ANXIETY SURROUNDING his was a climbing The area ‘Ic-Cnus slabs’ was a more about the problem in IChristmas presents to the which involved a massive THE VIRUS. exercise which took place small walk down a single-track front of them. Towards the end community. We delivered the paint fight! gifts to military houses in our Although our face-to- T on the Maltese Island road where one side we had of the third day, fatigue had SAC AAEN ROBINSON of Gozo. It was a 0300 start the climbing and the other started to set in and we were local community between face activities have been put on a Sunday morning, which a beautiful view over Gozo’s starting to feel the effects of with our youth club leaders. on hold due to the lockdown, began with a bit of confusion landscape. Our first lesson of 3 solid days of climbing. In In the Christmas present we are really looking forward regarding transport to the the week was how to safely light of this, and because we bags, we had multiple items, to our next face-to-face meet airport! However, everyone tie ourselves into the harness had been progressing so well, including chocolate biscuit ups where we have planned arrived at the airport safe using the rethreaded figure of the instructors granted us fridge cake, chocolate and loads of sessions and activities and sound with minutes to eight knot. The group picked an early finish. The climbers sprinkle dipped marshmallows and plan on making even spare. We all boarded the this up quickly, so we moved all took advantage of this by and salted caramel fudge. All more mess and noise! (written or those who were project. Dr Emma Egging, flight and we were finally on onto learning how to belay and fitting in some well-earned the items were handmade by the Senior’s group - no already struggling JET’s CEO, said: “At a time our way! Once we arrived the basics of climbing. During recovery siestas! by us. We also included adults were involved inthe at school before the when JET students are unable making of this blog!) F at the accommodation, we the knot tying practice the After benefiting from candy cane body scrub and pandemic, going back will to visit RAF and Corporate found that it had been double instructors had set up three a decent rest, everyone was the edge and lost sight of some information about Airplay is currently be a huge challenge. Giving partners JET Inspired booked, this trip was not going low difficulty climbs for us to eager to get back to climbing our belayer at the top. Each Airplay. I think that by hand not running face-to-face young people the support aims to bring inspiration to plan so far! However, the practice our new basic skills on day four. This time the successful climb boosted the making all the items, it sessions due to COVID-19 and they need and keeping them and encouragement into issue was quickly rectified, and and to inspire confidence in the expedition took us to the group’s confidence and by made the gifts more special. restrictions on gatherings. inspired to achieve is now their homes.” we were given an upgrade, equipment. Everyone became south of Malta to an area called 1200 everyone had completed We also made baubles for We are uncertain when this more important than ever. This initial set of which definitely made up for confident fairly quickly, so the “Central Chimneys”. The aim of the climb! As we reached the people to put on their trees. will change and are awaiting The Jon Egging Trust (JET) has resources marks the a hectic start to the exercise! instructors set up some more this day was to climb higher end of the final day, everyone We put a lot of time and Government guidance. produced a series of video inauguration of a special That evening we were given difficult climbs for us to have a resulting in increased exposure. felt very sore but were over the effort into the gifts and the However, online sessions are resources for young people to project team at JET who the trip’s itinerary and we met go at. The instructors also set The instructors wanted to moon with their achievements community loved them. ongoing and can be accessed give them some light-hearted have been tasked to explore and introduced ourselves to up a grade 6B climb named see how people dealt with that week. It was a very We even made a hashtag through the RAF Coningsby food for thought. Each clip new ways of delivering the everyone else in our group. ‘Black Adder’ and 3 of our first- this change in environment. successful expedition, the (#AirplayChristmasPresent) so Hive Facebook page. features a role model from the content of Blue Skies sessions The majority of the group time climbers just about made The climbing was harder, group learnt so many new skills that the people who got a gift Airplay is for young world of aviation and other to vulnerable young people. were first time climbers who it to the top! All of the climbs and all routes were graded and the increase in confidence could share it on Facebook! people aged 8 -18 and is open industries and encourages The charity is adapting to were all looking forward to a were 15-20m in height. at 5a and were 25m high! in all members of the group We did this project to all young people whether viewers to take part in a short an uncertain future, where new challenge. Over the next few days, We slowly made it to the top was evident. I think that we because one of the Juniors they are dependants of activity which helps develop opportunities for face-to-face We were met by a cloudy confidence improved even of all climbs with nearly all would all recommend this (aged 8-11) asked if we could service, ex-service or civilian. important life skills, such as contact or traditional group but dry start to the first day of further with climbers tackling participants making the top. expedition to anyone if the do something for the local New young people are always communication, teamwork, work in schools might be climbing, but the cloud wasn’t more and more challenging Some apprehension could be opportunity presents itself! community. Initially a small welcome, come online and leadership and resilience. The restricted, if not impossible. going to stop us, and other climbs. Teamwork amongst seen in a few climbers but with project it soon grew into a see what we are all about! videos are based on JET’s Blue than that, conditions were the group was excellent, with the groups encouragement much larger undertaking. We Skies youth programme and The free resources can perfect. The main feature of the trust between the climber any fears were soon forgotten also felt as though we could encourage young people to be found on YouTube by the day was an introduction to and belay being of the utmost and by the end of the day help make people feel happy be the best that they can be. searching for the Jon Egging climbing safety. We met early importance! On the third day of we were comfortable with and appreciated at a time of RAF pilots and corporate Trust or downloaded from and set off to catch the short climbing, the instructors threw climbing higher. For anyone year that might be difficult partners from various the JET website: www. 20-minute ferry trip across the in some cheeky overhangs who felt even more confident, for some. industries are amongst those joneggingtrust.org.uk/ water to Gozo. which made the climbers think lead climbing practice The year of 2020 who are participating in this inspired. was introduced. began positively. Two new The final day brought with members of staff joined us it our biggest challenge yet. we haven’t scared them away We travelled to the top of Gozo yet! We did some really fun and sopped at ‘Weid II Mielah’ activities, including a ‘Mega or ‘The Second Azures Window’ Craft Day’ for Chinese New – a huge arch that reaches out Year and creating music with into the sea. This was by far instruments. We also delivered the most exposure the group some educational sessions had encountered all week and on Alcohol Abuse, Stress For more information contact the aim was to abseil down Relief, Internet Safety and our Station Youth Worker, the arch and then climb back Cyberbullying. These sessions Jessica Nugent: Jessica. up. Even though the grade of are great because we get to nugent@actionforchildren. the climb was only a 3, people learn things in a fun way. We org.uk, 07540919358, or our Some of these images were were nervous about the abseil did role play scenarios about Community Development taken pre-COVID19 prior and the fact that the only way helping our friends at parties Officer, Ben Rossi: Benjamin. to the implementation of back up from it was to climb! which was so funny! We also [email protected], 01526 Two boys doing the activity suggested by the Red Arrows —helping to spread social distancing. One by one we went over ventured to Laser Storm in 347211 positivity by putting their drawings of a flight display with some inspirational messages in their window. 20 YOUTH ISSUE 2 2020 SUPPORT onetoone 21

17 (CONINGSBY) SQN – 17 SQN RAFAC AWARDS EVENING RAF CONINGSBY COMMUNITY SUPPORT 17 (CONINGSBY) SQUADRON RAFAC RECENTLY HELD THEIR AWARDS EVENING, ATTENDED BY A VARIETY OF VIPS INCLUDING WG CDR WARNER, TRENT WING CHAPLIN BOWMAN, FG OFF HARVEY DENFORD, FG OVERVIEW OF COMMUNITY PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY OFF SAM PARKE, AND JAN AND RICHARD ADAMS FROM THE WOODHALL SPA SINGERS. THE RAF BENEVOLENT FUND IN 2019. etween January 2019 behaviour,’ and “Dealing with g Off Andrea Nash, Officer the community to the highest and December 2019, transitions and separation.’ in Charge (OC), said, “The standard. Although quiet, he BRAF Coningsby delivered More workshops are due to F evening recognised the has shown his pride through multiple projects for RAF take place in 2020. cadets’ individual talents and actions rather than words by personnel, families and Other successful PERSONAL SUPPORT & Single point of contact (SPOC) hard work over the past year and participating in Remembrance the wider community with projects delivered through WORK SERVICES Service Operates 24/7 to see these efforts rewarded Parades, poppy selling, bag funding support from the RAF RAF Benevolent Fund grants 03000 111 723 in front of family and friends packing, Spa Singers, and more. Benevolent Fund. included 14 dependants TEL: 01526 347846 A knowledgeable and helpful was fantastic. All the cadets One of the key projects qualifying in Paediatric First 01526 347193 assistance to service users can be justifiably proud of their Martin Baker Award for 2019 was the refurbishment Aid and an upgraded TV for the and professionals wanting to achievements. Well done all!” for Best Attendance of 2 play parks at the heart Community Cinema. access support. A truly dedicated cadet, Cpl of the main site SFA, Lewis Thanks to the support The awards were as follows: Thomas Vasse has the best Road and Birch Close. The from the RAF Benevolent EMAIL: [email protected] attendance record of 97%. refurbishments provided by the Fund, Coningsby continues to Best Cadet - Training Flight RAF Benevolent Fund saw the provide a variety of community Web-based refferral form Cdt Amelia Goodchild Civilian Committee Award addition of new swings, slides, and family opportunities, ww.ssafa.org.uk/rafsupport demonstrated vigour during her A tough choice for the climbing and activity structures including youth club provision training to First-Class Cadet. She Committee this year, Cdt for children to enjoy. with Airplay and BEN clubs, SSAFA offer a CONFIDENTIAL listening and support service to was very quiet when she started Charles McNab stood out for The Jelly Beans Music playgroups and workshops for ALL military personnel on the Unit irrespective of rank, gender but has continued to flourish his helpfulness and reliability, programme continues to be the community to engage with or marital status. We are also here to support spouses, partners, and grow increasingly confident. always supporting younger successful, having seen 24 and enjoy. children and extended families. cadets and willingness to sessions delivered in 2019 with Best Academic Cadet step in at a drop of a hat. more to come in 2020. Jelly THE MAIN AREAS OF WORK ARE AS FOLLOWS: Cpl Lucy O’Sullivan has Beans continues to provide excelled throughout her RAF Battle of Britain engaging and creative activities • Family, relationships and personal difficulties; academic training and taken Memorial Flight Award for using dance, singing and • Stress, anxiety and depression; on every challenge. Always the Most Improved Cadet music for children and parents • Financial, debt and benefit advice; prepared, she rarely feels This year there were two to enjoy. • Applications to the RAF Benevolent Fund and other charitable pressure and has achieved winners: Cdt Mollyann Sabin The Family Graffiti organisations; excellence at every level. and Cdt Rose Cordery. They Cadet Mickle with Wing Commander Warner. programme has delivered • Illness, disability and additional needs; have continued to improve in several workshops for parents, RAF Coningsby Station • Housing, resettlement, admin and medical discharges; RAFA Coningsby and District, all aspects of their cadet careers including: ‘Understanding Best Cadet Commanders Cadet • Bereavement, loss and grief; Best Sporting Cadet with growing confidence, a anxiety in children and how Cdt Anthony Kennedy has This award was chosen by Fg • Equal opportunities, discrimination and harassment; Cpl Verity Dixon has represented continuous positive outlook to manage it,’ ‘Understanding shown true determination Off Nash, OC 17. Cpl Verity • Support groups and referral to other agencies; the Squadron, Wing and and willingness to put their autism,’ ‘Managing difficult this year. He has grown in Dixon is mature and confident, • Childcare issues; Region at sport and has used hand to almost everything. confidence and maturity, showing the characteristics • Adoption and fostering; her sporting prowess to help facing challenges head on, needed to act as the 17 • Preferential Treatment and other welfare reports; share her skills with others, 1265 (Horncastle) Squadron PROJECTS FUNDED IN 2019 and has gone out of his way Squadron representative • Issues arising from Deployments; both in cadets and out. RAFAC Shield for Endeavour to make sure things happen. at station functions. Cdt Mollyann Sabin has • Jelly Beans Music Our aim is to assist service personnel and their families, in the

RAF Coningsby Station overcome big obstacles in • Birch Close Play Park prevention and resolution of issues, through a non-judgemental Royal British Legion Ellis Trophy for OC’s Cadet Commander’s Trophy for order to fulfil her whole cadet • Lewis Road Play Park approach, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Award for the Best Non- Fg Off Nash stated: “Cdt Best Representation of experience. She is a very • Family Graffiti Workshops Commissioned Officer Tom Mickle has shown true MEET 17 Squadron RAFAC resilient and active cadet and • Paediatric First Aid Sgt Sarah Plowman is a grit and determination Cdt Joshua Pearson has has taken her illness on the • Cinema Enhancements dedicated NCO who has throughout the year and represented the Squadron in chin, refusing to let it beat her. • Airplay performed best overall proven he is a dedicated • BENClub throughout the year. Although member of the squadron. only recently promoted, she has taken on the challenge with full The Corps is open to all determination and spirit. She is young people between 12 a great role model and a valued and 17 and provides a wide member of the squadron. range of activities. We are CONTACT US continually looking to recruit Lorraine Grantham Alex Sharp 41 Squadron RAF Award not only young people Advanced Practitioner Personal & Family Support for Cadets’ Cadet but adult volunteers. Worker Cdt Tom Mickle was voted If you are interested in [email protected] [email protected] by the other cadets to have finding out more please 01526 347846 01526 347193 risen above and beyond call on 07928 214981 or that expected of him. email [email protected]. FIND US We are located in Building 62 Some of these images were taken pre-COVID19 prior within the Catering Flight, but are happy to conduct home visits. Cadet Doherty with FO Nash. Cadet McClean - Brian. to the implementation of social distancing. Monday to Friday: 0830hrs - 1700hrs www.ssafa.org.uk 22 MPGS ISSUE 2 2020 onetoone 23 10 YEARS AT CONINGSBY RETURNING TO WORK AFTER TWO WEEKS OF FESTIVE FUN WOULD LEAVE SOME PEOPLE You could be in the Algarve, FEELING A LITTLE LOW-SPIRITED.

ooking back some would providing overt armed and say “that’s gone quick” or unarmed static sentries and an relaxing in the sun... L “I thought the MPGS have Initial Reaction Force to detect been here longer than that.” It and prevent unauthorised is the latter that is correct. Pte intrusion to the Station. They www.algarve-retreats.com/ Ash Hunt reported for duty with controlled the access, ingress his Army ID card as the first and egress from the Station and property-to-rent/apartment-meia.htm member of the MPGS, arriving the issue of passes. They also in early June 2009. Over the conducted vehicle, baggage, following few months other building, area and personnel Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own residents’ soldiers arrived either as new searches as well as carrying out joiners or being posted from incident control procedures. swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but other MPGS sites. They were met Over time, the Platoon within walking distance (5 mintures to the marina and another 5 to the town centre). by the first Platoon Commander became interwoven in the fabric SSgt (now WO) Andy Huzzard. of the Station and settled in It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, Under his guidance they were with ease. They relocated to the oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom, eased into the RAF Coningsby main guardroom in late 2012. way of life. This not only established them the lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat the Station’s battle rhythm and served on station for the whole Initially they shadowed as the main focal point but also four, a TV and DVD are also available. Both the lounge and Bedroom have Patio doors operational commitments. ten years - Sgt Gaz Cave, LCpls the Station Guard Force, before gave them the opportunity to which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. Our personnel have Phil Chalmers, Andre Devaal and transforming No.13, Baxter be noticed more by Station attended and completed many Mike Winship. There is ample car parking space in front of the building. Close into a fully functional personnel. In January 2014 the courses, not just for their role Currently the Platoon Operations room. They quickly Platoon were rewarded with requirements as part of their is 20 soldiers strong and embedded themselves into No. the Station Commanders team own personal development commanded by SSgt Pete 5 Police and Security Sqn under commendation for their fully they have completed courses Gingell. However, the Platoon the command of OC RAF Police. dedicated professionalism in in Diversity & Inclusion, are still actively recruiting For those who hadn’t previously maintaining the security of the Mental Health, First Aid and new members who want to served as members of the RAF, Station during the upheaval of TRIM. Competencies in these work in a service environment they had quite an interesting the new road system on the courses provide support not with a new set of challenges, time learning what certain RAF approach road at the main gate. just for the Platoon but also for rewards and a healthy supply of terminology meant! ‘Fairies’, Throughout their time Station personnel. chocolate biscuits! ‘Geoffrey’s’, ‘Squippers’, ‘Scopies’, at RAF Coningsby, the MPGS On the sporting front many ‘Stackers’, ‘Jankers’ and what on have been instrumental in of our soldiers have represented ‘Custodem Custodire’ earth is a ‘DF’? It must have all providing the added security the Station as part of the highly Guarding the Guardians seemed quite complicated. during numerous high-profile successful football team, go On the first shift following visits and events including the karting team, running team and PRICES ON REQUEST the Christmas grant in 2010, renowned Coningsby Families’ adventure training expeditions, STARTING AT £295 PER WEEK with a force strength of 19 Open Days. In addition to this Some of these images were with huge acclaim. personnel, the MPGS took full the MPGS have been praised in taken pre-COVID19 prior The past ten years has control of guarding operational the handling of many real time seen up to 39 soldiers come to the implementation of commitments at RAF Coningsby. security incidents which has through the ever-revolving social distancing. Responsibilities included resulted in little or no impact to door at RAF Coningsby. During this period, four stalwarts have

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