ANNUAL RECEPTION | EX BON aPARTE | RED BULL SOAPBOX RACE | EUROPEAN AIR GROUP

Winter 2015

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The Magazine of RAF High Wycombe Autumn 2017

Winter 2015 Winter Wycombe Station Commander’s Foreword World World Rob Woods OBE MA BEng (Hons) RAF

of others. We practise these Thirdly, we must aspire to be scenarios to ensure our training ‘smarter’. Delivering our part in the is up to date, test our response next generation procedures, and to ensure that means we need to innovate and we have the appropriate facilities draw upon our collective skills, and supplies needed to support experience and ideas. Not every the situation. All in all, it means problem you face requires millions that we are ‘ready’ to respond of pounds or takes a year or more ANNUAL RECEPTION | EX BONAPARTE | RED BULL SOAPBOX RACE | EUROPEAN AIR GROUP confidently and successfully. to fix. Some things have simple This culture of preparedness will solutions and may just require Editorial Team continue and expand under my some self-help, some innovation OIC: Plt Off Adam South Ext 6748 n the six months that I have tenure so that we can play our full or a little sponsorship from above. Editor: Sophie Sheldon Ext 5414 been in command of RAF part in fulfilling the RAF’s mission. Many of you have already told Deputy Editor: WO Claire Old Ext 5251 Distribution: Sgt Steve Monks Ext 4172 IHigh Wycombe, I have had me “the one thing you should Mailbox: HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ the opportunity to assess just As the summer holidays fade fix is…” as well as your solution. mod.gov.uk how diverse the activities of this behind us, I hope you all have Of course, there are also some unit are, both internally (on the had the chance to take some perennial problems out there and Distribution Team Station and across the HQ) and downtime with your family I’ll be seeking your support in a Sgt Steve Monks Ext 4172 Cpl Julian Frost Ext 3337 externally (in the local community and recharge your batteries. It different way to consider how Cpl Adrian Catnach Ext 4071 as well as operationally). I have is important that we all do at we address a few of these too. SAC Sebastian Marziano Ext 6311 been extremely impressed with regular intervals. Many believe what I have seen and taken part that you can either have a I have one final important All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format in, and I am confident that our balanced life at home or you message and that is to encourage with separate JPEG images. hard-earned reputation is in can be highly productive at you to think about the RAF Designer: Danielle Bowen very safe hands. This edition of work, but you can’t do both. I Centenary next year. We are asking Tel: (01536) 521126 Wycombe World rightly focuses disagree. Life is dynamic and we you to play a vital role both in Email: danielle@ on some of these achievements. need to create the capacity to contributing to RAF100 events and lancepublishing.co.uk Reflecting on this assessment, I balance, day in, day out. Work, in acting as RAF100 ambassadors have been able to resolve what family, health and well-being, to the rest of our nation. By ‘you’ Advertising: Tammie Ridler my priorities should be going are all vital and interconnected we mean the entire RAF Family: Tel: (01536) 526667 Email: [email protected] forward. They are most easily parts and all of them must be serving regulars and reservists; captured by just three words: sustained. Living a ‘balanced’ veterans; Air Cadets; RAF charities; Published by: Lance Publishing Ltd Ready, Balanced, Smarter. existence is crucial to ensure business or industry partners; or 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Gates closing and facilities going that we can grow capacity and indeed anyone associated with Kettering, NN16 8NL into lockdown were just a few resilience and be ready to surge the RAF. I strongly encourage you Tel: (01536) 512624 Fax: (01536) 515481 of the necessary steps taken to when necessary. Working with to find out how you can be part Email: [email protected] ensure safety during an exercise other agencies, I am determined of what is sure to be an incredible www.lancepublishing.co.uk here recently. Exercises with a to do everything I can to help opportunity to Commemorate, variety of scenarios are regularly ensure that personnel are able Celebrate and Inspire. Printed By: Lance Print Ltd carried out in order to test to achieve such balance through Tel: (01733) 390 564 capabilities in a realistic situation, the provision of mental, physical, Enjoy this edition of as well as testing the response welfare and moral support. Wycombe World. Submission Deadline... Editor’s Welcome All articles for the WINTER ISSUE 2017 Edition to be sent Sophie Sheldon to the Editor no later than 23rd October 2017 to HWY-Editor activities that members of our innovative and creative ways. WycombeWorld. Please send files Station community have been I would like to welcome Plt as word documents with separate involved in over recent months. Off Adam South to the Team photos in the Jpeg format with as the new OIC of Wycombe highest possible quality to HWY- The articles featured here allow World. Thank you to the EditorWycombeWorld@mod. us to appreciate the diverse outgoing OIC, Fg Off James gov.uk. opportunities for learning and Palfrey, for his support and development that we have guidance on every edition, and open to us- ranging from to Padre Mike Hall, who is also elcome to the Autumn volunteering our time, energy leaving us, for his invaluable Edition of Wycombe and skills; understanding our contributions. We wish them WWorld, which place in history; and inspiring well in their future posts. showcases the rich variety of others in the most challenging,

WW: 4 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 Contents Autumn 2017

14 29 16 21 6 Padre’s Pause 20 Ladies’ Choir

10 Ex Bonaparte 21 Music Festival

14 Annual Reception 26 Charity Cake Sale

15 Station Charities 28 Red Bull Soapbox Race Committee 30 Bucks Broncos RFC 30 16 European Air Group 35 CO’s Cup Sports Day 17 Force Development Day to Bunker 36 Girls on a Mission

18 First Aid at Work Training

20 The Command Performers’ Awards

The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander. WW: 5 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 Padre’s Pause Say hello, wave goodbye… civil servants, contractors or members of the local community, Hellos and goodbyes are part we have enjoyed some good of everyday life and as we times together and I hope that grow older, we get used to the the wider RAF community is the regular rhythm of welcoming richer for those experiences. At new people into our lives and the risk of missing someone out, similarly letting people move I would like to highlight the work on to new circumstances. In the that has been done through the military and especially the RAF Welfare Team and Community (I suggest), we come to terms Support Team on 3 Site and at Air Caring 24/7 with this change in life with an Command, the Airplay – Youth ever-increasing frequency. Every Service and the partnership with Hopefully, we have all had the working to tight budgets. few years, military personnel and the Air Cadet Organisation – most opportunity to enjoy a rest and Spare a thought for those who their families are required to move notably 332 Squadron at High a break away from the usual are in this situation and ask homes, jobs, schools, away from Wycombe and 606 Squadron at routine during the summer whether there is anything you friendship networks, colleagues Beaconsfield. These teams in their months, but how would you can do to help. and areas of life that are of interest. different ways have focused on feel if you couldn’t have a This brings with it its own set of the needs of Service Personnel summer holiday (no matter For those who are carers, there challenges and demands, some and their families, and have how short) because you were is a Carers’ Group which meets we welcome, others we struggle brought the best out of them the carer for someone else? regularly to support, listen and with. Each person and family have even in difficult situations. Amid This is often the case for those offer any practical assistance their own way of dealing with this the vast amount of our work looking after others, as there possible to those who are and one way is not necessarily which is sometimes impersonal, simply isn’t anyone else to help responsible for the care of better than another. No-one the energy and enthusiasm of with the routines of caring a family member or friend. wants to see individuals struggle these dedicated teams directed for a loved one. Sometimes, Details of the dates, times and with change, so it is a privilege to helping others is something to alternative care arrangements venue are on Announcements. for the team in Community be noted and commended. It has are too expensive and Support to help people through been a privilege to be part of this therefore not possible when Padre Mike whatever ‘change’ might mean work for a short space of time. I for them. If you notice someone wish you all well for the future and not coping, please refer them to look forward to reading about the the agencies on unit established work of High Wycombe in future to support personnel and their editions of Wycombe World. I All Change in the HIVE loved ones. If that person is you, leave you in the capable hands of then please come and find us in Padre Kevin Capelin-Jones who The HIVE Information but with a lick of paint, new the Integrated Welfare Facility on has joined High Officer, Tracey Clarke, and carpets and furniture, the HIVE 3 Site. Wycombe the Station Community and CDO have a new (if not from RAF Development Officer, Dani totally unfamiliar) home. Please With this said, it is time for me Benson. Bowman, have moved! drop in to see the team – you’ll to say goodbye to RAF High be assured of a warm welcome. Wycombe and Air Command as Padre The HIVE is now based in the I prepare for deployment and a Mike Hall. former Youth Centre on 3 Site, The Oakeshott Training Room posting in 2018 to RAF Halton. I and the Youth Centre is now in 2 is now a Welfare Lounge, would like to take this opportunity the former HIVE office on the and is available for small to thank the people of High other side of the Oakeshott groups to meet for informal Wycombe for their friendship, Centre on 3 Site. This part of the gatherings and forums. It support and assistance in the building used to accommodate can be reserved through 2½ years that I have been here. the HIVE a number of years the Chaplaincy on 3 Site. Whether uniformed personnel, ago before being relocated to another part of the building, Padre Mike

CDO HIVE

WW: 6 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017

Ex Bonaparte The Halton Aero Club Expedition to Elba

Strong winds in Elba forced an extra day on the ground and the aircraft to be securely tied down

‘When I nod my head, you hit it...’ The stunning French/Italian Riviera as seen from 2000’

ost RAF Flying Clubs AA1 and a C-172 from Wyton) through someone else’s briefings. under control and in place… but Association (RAFFCA) who did not speak to each other In all, there were 30 research there was one thing we forgot Msorties tend to be flown before, during or after the event! topics and duties allocated to book – the weather! From the from A to A, generally operating Not really an Exped, more two including: FSO; European airspace; very beginning we were behind, within 20 miles of home-plate. separate flights… My AA1 had a airfield liaison; Admin Order; Risk with nature’s input changing But there’s a big wide world out bigger retrofitted engine, but no Assessment and daily Emergency our schedule as follows: there, where the terrain, weather, increase in fuel capacity, so was of the Day briefings. And of course, language and challenges all differ desperately limited in endurance. all domestics were allocated from Day 1 Plan: Halton- from what a high percentage of This resulted in us getting stuck at sourcing the accommodation Jersey-Chateroux. our members are used to. The Elba, when the only airfields down- to booking of taxis. The five Day 1 Reality: Poor weather in Halton Aero Club (HAC) has run track within range refused entry planning meetings were roughly the Western Channel resulted in an annual flying Exped since due to ‘no fuel for visitors’. Despite monthly and focused upon: a re-plan to Le Touquet followed the RAFFCA Berlin trip in 2006. the ‘Ciao!’ every cloud turned out by four hours on the ground, Destinations have included: to have a silver lining, and the 1st Meeting: Overview, before attempting to launch to Highlands and Islands; Ireland; day off nursing my bruised ego planning assumptions and Chateroux. This was aborted due Peenemunde; Dachau and the whilst sitting on the beach sipping crewing/aircraft preferences. to 800’ cloudbase and drizzle, so Alps; and this year, the island local beer got me thinking about 2nd Meeting: Duties night one was spent in Le Touquet! of Elba in the Ligurian sea (off a follow-up plan for the future. requirements and allocation, crew the West Coast of Italy). This list and initial outline of route. Day 2 Plan: Chateroux- article gives a (very) small insight Precisely 10 years and 6 months 3rd Meeting: European Valence-Cannes. into the 5-month planning later, we had decided to float planning considerations, Day 2 Reality: A good weather and preparation cycle and its the idea of the longest and most airfields brief, and route study. day that meant the reality matched expected 7-day execution… ambitious Exped to the HAC 4th Meeting: Ditching, the plan with an extra 1hr 50m membership. Although we had survival, risk assessment, sortie, launching at 0750hrs Prior planning and preparation grown the event over the years – it accident sequence/mitigation, (L) from Le Touquet. This was prevents persistently poor was usually around five days and and chart inspection. a hugely successful day flying performance (or something like 1,800nm – perhaps this 7-day from the North to South coast of that). And the requirement to 2,200nm extravaganza would be Pre-departure day: Allocation France in a day. Morale was high! safely conduct an Exped for 16 a step too far? The result caught of FLARM/survival equipment/ club pilots with vastly different us by surprise and was a total PLBs, final preparation and Day 3 Plan and Reality: Cannes- levels of experience, age and oversubscription. So, in January ‘take ownership’ of aircraft. Pavullo or Genoa-Elba. Finally the ability, flying aircraft of equally 2017, the real planning phase had With this cycle of events, the team only flying day where everything different levels of performance, started. The only way to make of 16 were ready to depart around went to plan. The options for bears witness to this. Our plan for such an event work is to delegate 40 hours of prep, better educated the lunch stop were due to this Exped actually started in 2005, – this also satisfies one of the major than before and enriched by the some opting not to land at the when I failed to get to Malta in requirements of an Exped in that experience before even calling mountain airfield of Pavullo, the very first RAFFCA Exped – not everyone learns something new ‘Clear Prop!’ on Day One. So, but at the end of the day we listed above, as it was attended at all stages – whether through there we were on the morning were all in the right place and by just two aircraft (my Grumman leading on a topic by research, or of departure with everything ready for a meal on the beach. WW: 10 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 Membership of the RAF Halton Social – Monthly social lecture Aero Club is open to all Serving evenings form the backbone of our Members of the Armed Forces, annual programme. The Clubhouse Veterans, Reservists, Cadet Forces, is comfortable and modern. MOD Civil Servants and a limited number of Civilians. With flying Trial Lessons – Unsure if rates at around 35% cheaper than flying is for you? Book a Trial The Tecnam comparative organisations – What Lesson and fly with one of Sierra aircraft is your excuse not to join?! our instructors to find out. basking in the 35c heat of Training – The HAC offer a 364 Serving Personnel Enhanced Cannes Airfield days/year training schedule Learning Credits – We are an for all major private pilot ELCAS Registered Training Facility licences, instrument training, – did you know that ELCs can be revalidation and Groundschool. used to gain a Pilots Licence?

Private Hire – Our fleet of aircraft Want to know more? Check is second to none and licensed out the HAC Website, then give members are encouraged to us a call on 95237 Ext 6178. We’d develop their skills through solo love to meet you and discuss your The PA-28, a 4-seat aircraft that flew with two people but carried hire and attendance on regular future part in Aviation – it could the bags of the smaller aircraft... team work! Fly-Outs and Overseas Expeditions. be the call that changes your life!

Morning in the Alps - note the cloud hiding a 3000’ hill side! Grenoble Le Versoud in the Alps

Day 4 Plan and Reality: Force Grenoble Le Versoud. It was Day 8 Plan: Cut the lawn and for fuel, all went smoothly. A Development Day. A trip now inevitable that we were return to domestic reality. cold beer awaited the weary into Portoferraio to visit the not going to be home by the Day 8 Reality: Lyon-weather Airmen’s return at Halton and our Napoleonic sites and enjoy a wine morning of Day 7 as the forecast divert into Vichy… This was 9-day marathon was at an end. tasting at a local vineyard. But through Central France looked the day where the plan to Over the years, we have always something wasn’t quite right… poor. As we launched on the get as far North as possible waxed lyrical about the Expeds, During the night, the pine trees Northerly Elba runway, it became resulted in a 60nm backtrack but it is my observation that the throughout our hotel complex evident that the strong Scirocco to the South mid-sortie. All marginal weather, emergencies had shed tonnes of needles Southerly had disappeared and aircraft were headed from Lyon and challenges are destined to which covered the resort like what a great departure toward to Troyes when the weather become the elements that are brown snow. The Scirocco had the 700’ AAL peak it was. The became completely impassable. often the topic of conversation. arrived unannounced from the rest of the sorties were typified However, through adversity I believe that the frustrations of Sahara and the wind was gusting by extreme turbulence at comes great performance and planning and re-planning; sitting to 40kts! The day went ahead as Cannes and glorious weather I was pleased that everyone on the ground for hours on end planned, but started with a trip to through the Alps, but we were marked the last good weather waiting for mythical weather the Airfield to check the aircraft now (at least) a day behind. diversion and acted upon it – clearances; and the general and their tie-downs – all was well. this was also ably assisted by uncertainties that this adventure Day 7 Plan: Le Touquet-Halton. Clermont Radar who allowed brought will consign it to the Day 5 Plan: Elba-Cannes- Day 7 Reality: Grenoble Le me to relay the weather call book of great memories. I am Grenoble Le Versoud. Versoud-Lyon. The weather was to ‘all Golf-registered, Halton- proud of everyone who worked Day 5 Reality: The Scirocco had as poor as the forecast suggested, based aircraft’. So we arrived hard over the first five months not dissipated and following an with some low cloud stubbornly at Vichy and within an hour, of 2017 to make this trip a huge 08:30 meeting the decision was remaining in the beautiful valley the weather began to worsen success. I am extremely proud made to cancel and sit it out that the airfield sat in. The necessitating another night stop of the youngsters (with as little for a day. Whilst the wind was decision to reposition to Lyon and hotel. And expensive taxis… as 20hrs post-PPL) who matured due to abate later in the period, (just 60nm away) was based during this extremely challenging with 16 people already in hotel upon getting out of the Alps for Day 9 Plan: Back to work. trip, and the more experienced rooms, accommodating this herd weather and the knowledge that Day 9 Reality: Vichy-Deauville- crew members that nurtured of cats had to be considered in Lyon is a large city with plenty of Halton. The morning brief them. And finally, I am delighted all decisions to ‘remain’, ‘press’ accommodation. There might started with the same line as to see how those who are used or ‘wait and see’. Whilst erring just be a later clearance… ok, the rest of the week ‘there is no to flying from A to A coped on the side of caution for our it never materialised! And we pressure to get any further today with planning to negotiate bed-down and scepticism for lost our C-182 due to a ceased than the ramp where our aircraft A to L, but despite adversity, the weather forecast, a day on flap motor, leaving the aircraft are parked’. But a forecast 1300(L) successfully navigated A to O the beach was enjoyed by all. in the unflyable configuration of clearance somehow felt more (missing out B, C and M) and Flaps Fully Down – luckily, Lyon realistic and indeed it arrived worked as a team throughout. Day 6 Plan: Genoble- is the Easyjet hub for central on time. Thereafter, aside from Destination Norway in 2018… Troyes-Le Touquet. France. It was eventually fixed being poorly served at Deauville Day 6 Reality: Elba-Cannes- and retrieved two weeks later. which resulted in a 3-hour wait Gp Capt Mark Manwaring WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 11 Are you looking for exceptional childcare?

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© Forewer / shutterstock RAF High Wycombe Annual Reception

WW: 14 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 Station Charities Committee

Update and call for volunteers

Each year, the RAF High Wycombe Station Charities Committee selects a number n 20th June 2017, of charities to support, RAF High Wycombe ensuring that between them Oinvited local industries we back local causes, children’s and key partners to its and completed three charities, and organisations Officers’ Mess for this year’s flypasts over the crowd. which provide services to Annual Sunset Parade. the military community. Flying Officer Gareth Davies, Every year, the Station invites the Parade Commander, said: This year, the Station’s local industries to the Officers’ “It’s an honour to take part charities are Families’ Mess so that we can hear and in the Sunset Ceremony and Activity Breaks (FAB) http:// understand their concerns and it was really great to see fabcamps.org.uk/, Wycombe issues, but also develop new so many people attend.” Homeless Connection ties that could in turn benefit http://www.wyhoc.org. either the Station or the local RAF High Wycombe uses uk/ and PACE http://www. community. The evening starts this event as a way to forge thepacecentre.org/. with arrival drinks and finishes new partnerships, reinforce with the Sunset Parade. existing ones and see how we Thanks to the hard work of the can better integrate with the Committee and generosity This year, the Station was local community. The Station of the Station, we are able fortunate enough to receive was able to re-affirm ties and to donate thousands of a flypast from the Battle say thank you for the support pounds to these charities of Britain Memorial Flight, received. We look forward to over the course of the year, which arrived at 8:15pm next year and all that it brings. and will be selecting new ones this coming October.

Money is raised through standing donations by the Messes and by a series of Station events, and this is where you come in. We would very much like to hear from anyone willing to offer their time to organise or help out at an event, or better still join the Committee itself – in particular a volunteer to become the Secretary would be very welcome.

We would also like to hear from those undertaking activities in support of any other charities, in order that we can support where possible and collate an annual report of the money raised across the Station, so please make contact if this is you.

If you would like any information or would like to become involved in this highly rewarding Committee, please contact Flt Lt Dan Ruane on extension 7254 or via email at [email protected].

WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 15 facilities provided by the UK Royal Air Force, which provided invaluable support European Air Group and expertise. It culminated in simulating the activity at a deployed multinational Force Protection Command Post, conducts key Force with subject-matter experts from all of the participating nations defending a deployed operating base from multiple Protection Exercise incidents and attacks.

‘VOLCANEX’ is the EAG’s at RAF Honington umbrella name for its multinational exercises, through which it seeks to test and refine he seven EAG nations, plus its products and procedures. The force protection partner key to success in multinational TNorway, conducted force protection operations is a successful multinational to establish a robust, common Force Protection Command level of understanding and Post Exercise from 8th – 19th communications between May at the Force Protection nations, so that there is no Centre at RAF Honington. The doubt amongst the participants aim of the exercise, named about what to do and how to ‘VOLCANEX FP CPX 17’, was to do it. Because of the substantial strengthen force protection level of interest in this year’s interoperability between exercise, it was conducted over the participating nations, the course of two weeks, with through the use of common each week containing the same doctrine and procedures. The exercise for a different audience, exercise was conducted in and a total of 105 personnel, purpose-built force protection players and trainers took part. Honington Photographers Photography: © Honington

WW: 16 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 errors were discussed, allowing museum and the fascinating us to understand situation from historical artefacts on display. an operational perspective, all the way down to the tactical level. In conclusion, the ISR Force Force The atmosphere and pressure Development Day allowed the of that critical day in the bunker team not just to explore the is difficult to comprehend, but history of Fighter Command Development the visual impact of the Bunker and its command and control laid out before us, and in-depth system, but also to allow the descriptions provided by Seb, team to discuss intelligence, Air Capability Delivery allowed us to imagine the tension. surveillance and reconnaissance ISR Visit to the 11 Group from a modern perspective, and Day Sqn Ldr Andy Bull presented a to explore the procurement Bunker, brief on the character of Dowding, challenges of the time and their and the parallels between relevance to the present day. n 26th June 2017, the system that AOC-in-C Fighter procurement in the Second World Air Capability Delivery Command, Air Chief Marshal War and the present day. Lt Cdr Our sincere thanks to the Bunker O ISR Team conducted a Sir put in place Matt Blake then outlined the staff, and to Mr. Seb Cox for his Force Development Visit to the immediately before the Second value of joint operations during enthusiastic and enlightening 11 (Fighter) Group Operations World War began. The simplicity World War II, focusing on the Royal presentation which had us all on Room, on the site of the former of the communication systems is Navy’s contribution in deterring a the edge of our seats. Ownership RAF station at Uxbridge. The stark compared to the technology German invasion in 1940; he then of the Bunker now lies with staff working in this facility were used today, but it was this system talked about the vital role played Hillingdon Council and more responsible for coordinating the which rapidly identified incoming by the RAF in overcoming the information can be found at www. air defence of London and the enemy raids, and directed the Admiral Dönitz’s U-boat wolfpacks hillingdon.gov.uk/bunker and South East of England during the fighters to respond and engage. in the Battle of the Atlantic. After http://friendsof11group.co.uk Second World War; this part of the The political situation in 1940, and the presentations, we had some UK probably suffered the most the German tactical and strategic time to explore the Bunker’s Lt Cdr Matt Blake RN from the Luftwaffe onslaught during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Beyond the Battle of Britain, the 11 Group Operations Room was responsible for air defence and fighter operations in the South East of England, and over occupied Europe throughout the Second World War, including the Dunkirk Evacuations and the . Today, the Bunker is set up to recreate the exact conditions of 15th September 1940, the busiest day of the Battle of Britain and the day of the famous visit by Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

The visit was led by the P-8A Poseidon Programme Team, and gave us an opportunity to Never in the field of see the command and control structure that was established to human conflict was counter the daunting threat of “ Goering’s Luftwaffe. We also tried so much owed by so to understand the demands of fighting a complex air battle as many to so few Britain faced the very real threat ” of invasion. Finally, we discussed – Sir Winston Churchill, the lessons and issues that relate 20th August 1940 to the modern day Royal Air Force, and the challenges we face today.

Wg Cdr Rich Berry opened proceedings with a look at the strategic picture in the summer of 1940 and an explanation of the perilous position that Britain found itself in as it stood alone against the might of Nazi Germany. The team then descended the long flight of steps into the Bunker itself and settled down to hear a brief by Mr. Seb Cox, the Head of the Air Historical Branch. Seb described the detailed working of the world’s first integrated air defence

WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 17 First Aid at Work Training

n July, 10 staff based at RAF External Defibrillator (AED). called upon, and having the on the course for personnel High Wycombe attended Attendees had a variety of knowledge and confidence to who wish to promote activities Iand successfully passed reasons for coming on the help someone may not just be for the wellbeing of others a First Aid at Work (FAW) course, ranging from being in the workplace; you could is a bonus for the Station. course, these were both able to help a work colleague be in town or at home and as Service Personnel and MOD in an emergency, to being such, this should be seen as a RAF High Wycombe has five Civil Servants. The course was able to support clubs and whole life skill, not just a “work” AEDs on base, including three three days long and covered other activities here at RAF qualification. Legally, we are Public Access Defibrillators a wide range of practical and High Wycombe. We can never well covered for First Aiders, (PAD); 1 Site and 3 Site theoretical scenarios to build know when these skills may be and to be able to offer places Guardrooms, and the Station knowledge, and reinforce Gym on 3 Site are PADs that the confidence that in an are available to members of emergency you will do the the public as well as Station right thing. The course covers Personnel, with “behind the basics, such as bandaging wire” AEDs at the Officers’ Mess and minor illnesses, and goes reception desk and Building all the way to giving Cardio 47 badge control. Wise Owls Pulmonary Resuscitation nursery in Greenwood has a (CPR) and using an Automatic PAD in a secure cabinet on the outside wall, the Danesfield Arms at Medmenham is soon to have a PAD fitted as well. To access any of the PADs, the code to the cabinet would be given by the 999 operator, who can also give advice on using an AED if needed.

Courses are run at regular intervals throughout the year, and the dates are advertised in Station Announcements. For further information on FAW or training courses, you should contact the SSHEA Department. © Rawpixel.com/shutterstock

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Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am to 4.30pm Saturday 9am to 3pm & Sunday 10 ish to 3 ish! The Command Performers RAF High Wycombe Awards

he Command Performers and getting it all on and off in Ladies bring back the Silver the time limits, and it becomes a Tfrom Shrivenham real challenge. But it is great fun and we get the chance to see Earlier this summer, RAF High lots of other plays. Despite the Wycombe’s Drama Club, The competitive nature of the event, Command Performers, took a the atmosphere is great; all the play to the Defence Academy at teams want to see plays done well. he choir had a very busy sing at the Station’s Annual Shrivenham. This was for the RAF period in the run-up Reception and was very keen Theatrical Association’s Annual Why not be dramatic yourself? T to the summer break to have us at his function. One Act Play Festival. Over a We perform in the Oakeshott with several performances He even came and posed for weekend every year, RAF Drama Centre and we are always looking and planning for a pretty photos with us afterwards. Clubs perform plays which are for new members – experience special concert in October. judged by an independent is not necessary, just enthusiasm. After all of this, you would professional adjudicator. We not only want people to act We sang at Napfest on think that we deserved a rest – we need people to build sets, the Crick at the beginning and wind-down towards the Each team has a 30 minute operate lights and sound, organise of June, performing just end of term but instead, we “familiarisation” where they try costumes, develop a website and outside the main tent. were straight into learning out their set on the stage, and to have lots of fun. The next thing Singing outside created a new choir pieces and full sort out the lighting, sound and we intend to do is a selection of few challenges with sound ensemble pieces for the ‘Sing how they will actually act out their one-act plays and sketches – an and blending that were new it Out’ concert in Beaconsfield play. Then, when it is their turn to ideal opportunity to try us out. to us but the performance in October to raise money for perform, they are allowed up to 60 So if you fancy treading the went down well. Later that the Hear Their Roar charity minutes. This includes a maximum boards or being part of the month we performed for project. The concert is to be of 10 minutes to get their set back-stage crew, contact Ellis the Station Commander held in the Chalfont St Peter into position and a maximum Artus 01844 347818 or email and all his guests at the Community Centre on the 8th of five minutes to remove their [email protected] RAF High Wycombe Annual October starting at 1830hrs set. Overrunning any of these Reception in the Officers’ and tickets can be bought times results in penalty points. Mess, singing a shortened by contacting admin@fv2v. programme due to the co.uk or calling 07957787399, We took a play by Rona flypast timings. July saw us costing £8 for adults and £4 Munro called “Dirt Under the perform at the Station Music for children. The evening will Carpet”. The play was set in Festival singing on the back include performances from an office in Aberdeen early of a truck! Outside again, but a variety of groups including one morning when only the this time miked up to help community choirs, such as two cleaners were in (and the our Musical Director (MD) ours, and professional West dead body of the Boss!). balance the sound between End performers! Afterwards the Altos and the Sopranos; there will be cake and a raffle The results were terrific. We got another new experience for (We all love a bit of cake!) the cup for the best set. Anne several of the ladies. Then, Artus and Caroline Seraille later in the month, we were The RAF High Wycombe were joint winners of the best invited by the High Sherriff Ladies Choir is open to actress award and we won the of Buckinghamshire to serving Ladies, Civil Servants trophy for the Best Production. sing at a reception he was and contractors working on holding in for the RAF High Wycombe as well Any play involves teamwork, but Caroline Seraille and John promotion of Mental Health as partners and daughters Ryder being dramatic in a add to this taking a complete set, recent play charities. He had heard us (16yrs and over) of all three furniture, props and costume,

From Left to right: Ellis Artus, Caroline Seraille, Stephen Artus, Anne Artus, John Ryder

WW: 20 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 groups. We rehearse in the Station Church on 3 Site Stoke-on-Trent playing pop and from 1900hrs to 2030hrs on RAF punk covers to a revved up crowd a Wednesday evening and High Wycombe as the light faded. The guest bands we return from the summer provided an excellent variety to break on 6th September. We the acts and the organisers of the are always looking for new Festival were extremely grateful members; no previous singing that they offered to play without experience is required, and charging. The final act of the night there are no auditions, so was the famous (in some quarters) come along and give it a go! Music KB25, a home grown band of mainly For more information RAF High Wycombe Music Club search for RAF HW Ladies members and fronted by Cpl Ben Choir on Facebook, email Green. Their rock and grunge covers rafhwyladieschoir@hotmail. provided the perfect finale to what com, or contact the Secretary, had been a fantastic night and sent Flt Lt Sam Broderick, the crowd home on a high. Samantha.Broderick518@mod. Festivaln Thursday 13th July, the the crowd to an acoustic set of gov.uk or the Deputy OIC, British weather held out well-known rock and blues covers, The success of the acts and event Flt Lt Anne Nicholson, anne. Oand the sun shone (a bit), followed by Abbey Merritt with her as a whole was largely down to [email protected] for this year’s RAF High Wycombe own unique acoustic take on some the professional sound engineers Music Festival, organised by classic tunes. DJ Classic Morris (aka from Q-Audio who deserve a huge Hear Their Roar is a charity volunteers from the Station and SAC Nick Morris) gave the crowd thanks from all of us, and hats off to that has been set up by our attended by nearly 400 Station staff more festival dance tunes, before them for on turning an articulated MD, Megan Tanner and her and their families. Held on the 3 Alfred’s Manor, RAF Halton’s own lorry and a 12x12 tent into a proper associate Sarah Cuthbertson Site Sports Pitches, the afternoon Music Club band, took the stage. festival! Further thanks must got to to facilitate young people began with a ‘school sports day’ CO’s With Cpl Kyle Pingree on drums, the Station Welfare Fund and to the who have experienced trauma Cup event (think welly-wanging indie and rock covers built up to the Warrant Officer and Sergeants’ Mess, to express their experiences and three-legged races with a PTI signature piece of ‘Mustang Sally’, who provided initial funds for the and feelings through the twist), before becoming a full blown which set the scene perfectly for event and helped out with staffing arts. The aim is to allow them festival with 8 acts playing into the Lead Vocalist, Sharleen Merritt, to it. The events need volunteers to be to explore their issues and evening. Months of planning and take over and get the crowd up on a success though, so without listing situations in a safe space, and hard work by the team of volunteers, their feet and singing. every name, as there are a great to support those who care for led by Cpl Gemma Burns and Cpl many, thank you and well done to them in understanding their Ben Green all paid off, and festival The RAF High Wycombe Ladies all those who helped out in so many experiences. The pair’s focus goers were entertained by a variety Choir performed their set next to different ways, from the admin in is currently around London, of bands and activities. a great reception from the crowd, the background to the hard work on but they are also planning perfectly demonstrating both the the day. All being well, next summer their first project in East Africa. The festival began with an opening talent and the community spirit there will be an even bigger and More information can be address from OC BSW, before DJ the Station has to offer. A guest better Music Festival taking place at found at www.heartheirroar. Bobby D (who goes by the name of band were next up in the form of RAF High Wycombe, so keep your co.uk or search for Hear Cpl Rob Dorling when not playing the White Tips, a three piece from eyes out for the advertisements and Their Roar on Facebook. the festival scene) launched into Aylesbury playing their own original if you’d like to be involved, contact dance classics to set the scene songs which were lapped up by the Committee using the email and warm up the crowd. Ken Pike the crowd. Forever Dilemma were address HWY-SCCMusicFestival@ from the Air Media Centre treated another guest band, a group from mod.gov.uk. photography: James A Cox © SAC

WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 21 You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun...

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It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster, fridge freezer and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD ,CD player and WiFi are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. There is ample car parking space in front of the building. www.algarveestatemanagement.co.uk apt meia PRICES: Jan - March £225 April £300 May £325 June £375 July/August £475 Sept £375 Oct £325 Nov/Dec £250

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n 19th July, members of Air Commercial O held a Bake Sale and Tombola on 3 Site to raise funds for two charities – CALM and RNLI.

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is an award- winning charity dedicated to preventing male suicide, the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45 in the UK. They offer support and work towards changing the culture and policies around this issue.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is the charity that saves lives at sea. Every day, people of all backgrounds get into danger in the water and the volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards come to their rescue, saving thousands of people each year.

The organisers – Jo Paish, Sarah Hamlyn, Diane Williams, Gill Fairman and Jane Ellis – would like to thank all those who supported this fundraiser by donating tombola prizes and a magnificent variety of cakes!

A big thank you also goes to everyone who came along on the day and helped to raise a total of £615. Charity Cake Sale Charity Cake

WW: 26 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017

Tally Ho! RAF Officers win hearts at Red Bull Soapbox Race

n Sunday 9th July 2017, a team of RAF OEngineer Officers from Head Quarters Air Command, RAF High Wycombe took on 69 teams at the Red Bull Soapbox Race at Alexandra Palace to claim 8th place.

Team Must Dash, decked out in World War II Bomber Command costumes and moustaches, also won the People’s Choice Award – this was awarded to the public’s favourite soapbox and earnt them a place on the podium. They were proud to support the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity, and RAF Association in the lead up to the event and on the weekend itself.

The core ‘crew’ of James Sinclair He explains: “As a kid my parents as a fun and diverse career as ‘Ginger’, James Lainchbury helped me make a wooden choice. It also allowed us to as ‘Biggles’, Paul Emerson as soapbox to race in, so I had the raise awareness of some great ‘Tug’, Dan Ruane as ‘Bertie’ were ‘soapbox bug’ from a very early RAF charities, with a crowd of supported on the day by Ian age! Taking part in the Red Bull 20,000 people in attendance Withers as ‘Mac’, Chris Phipps Soapbox Race, with its big jumps on the day and the chance of as ‘The Bish’ and Ken Pike as and tight hay-bale chicanes, being on Dave TV forever!” ‘Barron’. They are Science, was a massive step up though!” Technology, Engineering and The aim was to uphold the Maths (STEM) Ambassadors, Paul Emerson headed up the reputation of RAF Engineering, and wanted their soapbox to main build phase: “There was and the soapbox managed to reflect the spirit of the RAF, great team work between us successfully complete the course and inspire future generations throughout the project. We with absolutely minimal damage to consider careers in RAF were very resourceful – our compared to the majority of Engineering and STEM areas. soapbox was made mainly entrants. James Lainchbury The team chose to base their from recycled items such concluded that: “We were really soapbox on a Lancaster Bomber, as the scrap wheelie bins pleased with 8th overall, as first complete with a ‘pilot’ and a that formed the fuselage, time entrants, and hopefully ‘rear gunner’, as it represented a used ladder for the main have managed to encourage this perfectly and would catch chassis and an old all-terrain young people to consider STEM the imagination of the public. kart for some much needed subject choices and future suspension and steering parts!” engineering careers in the RAF.” James Sinclair was the driving force behind the team, Dan Ruane added: “As Engineer coming up with the idea Officers, it was a chance to to take part having seen it turn some theory into practice, advertised on television. whilst promoting engineering

WW: 28 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 RAF Officers win hearts at Red Bull Soapbox Race

WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 29 tation Rugby is back eventually losing out. Building with a bang and winning on this success, and with the Ssilverware once again. arrival of the new Head Coach, Sgt ‘Hoggy’ Hynd at Northolt Two years ago, RAF High last season, the team once Wycombe, RAF Northolt and RAF again managed to reach the Halton combined to form the Morrison Shield Final, where a Bucks Broncos. The teams were closely fought game against RAF all struggling to field enough Honington resulted in a win for players to allow for competitive the Broncos. games, so with this in mind, the units approached the RAF Rugby The team is friendly and Union and requested that they all welcoming, and always looking combined to form one team. for new players of all abilities to join its ranks. So if you’re just Within the first season of coming coming back from injury, never together, the team was able to played or wanting to take up the Bucks Broncos RFC reach the Morrison Shield Final, sport once again please come along and join us.

I am Cpl Daniel ‘Lips’ Phillips and have just arrived on Station, taking on the role of team focal point for all players based here at High Wycombe. For more information please feel free contact me via 95221 4526 or email me Daniel.phillips479@ mod.gov.uk

Cpl Daniel Phillips

WW: 30 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017

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AF High Wycombe got These events were a test of our off to a great start for the teams, seeing their hand-eye RCO’s Cup event on the coordination being pushed to 13th July; with over 60 personnel the max. However, the battle was attending from both High not over yet. Next up was the Wycombe and Halton, the sports 100m sprint, the egg and spoon pitches were full of grunts, race, and finally, the three-legged groans and cheers as both race. The first 100m sprint was stations went head-to-head. dominated by OC BSW, who later let on that he used to run With RAF High Wycombe 100m competitively. After the sporting two teams, one racing portion of the day had from BSW and one from Air been completed, next up was Command, and RAF Halton the obstacle course relay. Teams sporting four teams, the odds were expected to spread their weren’t in our favour. However, members throughout the course the first test for our teams and complete various tasks. First involved a number of different up was the jerry can run, followed stages, ranging from welly by a leopard crawl, tyre flips, one throwing to dummy drags. handed spins and last of all, trying Corporal Sam Hodges, the event to get a full cricket outfit on and organiser, said: pass over the finish line.

Today was a great way of getting Overall, a great day was had by station personnel out, active all RAF High Wycombe and RAF “and competitive. It took a lot Halton personnel, with RAF Halton of organisation, but everyone’s winning the event overall; we’ll having a great time.“ get them next year!

WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 35 G rls Missionon a dolescents’, and topic relating to Health; these particularly young included healthy eating, alcohol Awomen’s, participation awareness and benefits of in sport is less than optimal, training. Under the guidance and it appears that the age that of the PEd Staff, the girls young women are dropping answered a variety of questions out of sport and physical and formulated a way to activity is getting lower. To improve their overall health. try and promote a healthier lifestyle, Bucks County Council The sessions also included a introduced a scheme in 2014 physical element and this was called ‘Girls on a Mission’ designed to give the girls a which was aimed at helping taste of what they could do girls aged 16 -24 become in their own time once the more positive about physical course had finished. They all activity, build self-confidence fully embraced the variety of and make new friends. activities which included: Body Pump, Functional Training, Circuit The scheme had previously Training and Fitness Testing. been extremely successful at RAF Halton, so it was decided The girls were all extremely that the gymnasium at RAF High enthusiastic and appeared to Wycombe would take the lead gain a variety of new skills, which on delivering the initiative in the they can take away with them High Wycombe area. A six-week and develop; they also gained an programme was designed to AQA certificate of achievement give the girls exposure to a from their attendance. variety of fitness sessions, health- based discussions and team If you would like further building events, aimed at helping information regarding any future them to lead a healthier lifestyle. courses then please contact Jo Atkins ([email protected]) Each week, the girls were or go to www.BucksFamilyInfo. asked to discuss a different org/girlsonamission.

WW: 36 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2017 WW: 37 Changes to the State Pension were What will I get for my money? introduced in April last year but still, over a year later, there is confusion The ‘old’ Basic Pension rate went up to about the changes and their impact. £122.30 per week from 6 April 2017. The new Single Tier Pension rate from the In this article Mary Petley of the Forces same date is £159.30. Pension Society provides a recap on how last year’s changes will affect you. Do I have any choice about paying NICs?

Before 6 April 2016 what we all I am afraid not. We all have NICs understood as the State Pension was deducted from our pay as long as we made up of two parts: the Basic State are under State Pension Age and still Pension and Second State Pension working. (S2P) designed to supplement the Basic State Pension. Everyone (save the And how long do I have to pay to very low paid) paid National Insurance qualify for the full Single Tier Pension? Contributions (NICs) which counted towards their Basic State Pension. Even though you were paying NICs at However the same was not true of the the lower rate before 6 April 2016, as long S2P. Many pension schemes, including all as you pay for a total of 35 years, with at in the Armed Forces schemes, all those in least 7.5 years at the higher rate, you will the public sector and many in the private qualify for the full Single Tier Pension. sector were “contracted out” of S2P. The benefit of being “contracted out” was that How am I going to know what I have the scheme members paid 1.4% of pay paid in so far? less in NICs than was otherwise the case. The downside was of course that they During last summer the DWP should received a smaller overall state pension. have told you what your ‘foundation What if I find that there are gaps in From 6th April 2016 this ceased and amount’ is – that is the value of the my record? everybody in the UK who pays Class 1 pension you have already paid for as NICs pays them at the same, higher, rate. at 6 April 2016 – and our future NICs If you have had no breaks in your Armed will add to it. If in doubt, go on to the Forces service, your NIC record for that The following Q&A covers the calculator and check out your personal period should be complete. If it is not, main points: position or complete the on-line form you need to challenge it and you will (https://www2.dwp.gov.uk?fps-directgov/ probably need the help of DBS to do so. So what is the new arrangement called? en/contact-tps/fpc.asp) What if those gaps are correctly shown? The new arrangement is known as Rumour has it that we will be ‘seen off’ Can I pay extra to fill them? the Single Tier Pension in order to by the changes. Is that right? differentiate it from the arrangement Normally, yes. You can buy back up outlined in the paragraph above. No! Most of you have a long working life to 6 years NIC ‘cover’. I use the word ahead of you and plenty of opportunity ‘normally’ because of an old, now Will I receive less pay? to build up the full Single Tier State defunct, provision which allowed a Pension. Even if you don’t make married woman to opt to pay reduced The answer is probably “yes”. NICs sufficient contributions to entitle you to rate NIC and rely on her husband’s increased by 1.4% of pay at a time when the full Single Tier Pension rate, you will contributions towards the married pay rises are running at 1% and charges not get less than you have earned by way couples’ pension. The current position for food and accommodation tend to rise of the contributions you have made. is that, if a married woman opted to pay each year. reduced NICs, the rules will not permit How can I check that my contribution her to pay a top up or buy back those record is correct? years. More information about Voluntary Contributions can be found at: You could write to the National https://www.gov.uk/voluntary-national- Insurance Contributions Office at: insurance-contributions

The Pension Service 9 If you are a Member of the Forces Mail Handling Site A Pension Society and have further Wolverhampton questions on this or any AFPS WV98 1LU issue, please email us on [email protected] Or ring them. The ‘phone numbers are: If you are not a Member but would From overseas – 0345 3000 168 like to learn more about us, visit our From UK – 0345 3000 169 website www.forcespensionsociety.org As the world’s oldest horse charity specialising in providing Many of the horses enjoy meeting visitors, they may be respite and retirement for working horses. The Horse Trust has retired now but they spent their working lives performing cared for many military veterans for over 130 years, from Roger their duties in front of millions on State occasions and and San Toy after The Great War to recent arrivals like Daniel ceremonies like Royal Weddings, Trooping the Colour, from The Royal Mews - a firm favourite of HM The Queen, and The State Opening of Parliament and Royal Ascot.” Viscount, the longest ever serving horse in the . The Black Beauty Tea Room offers visitors a chance to Alongside retired Police heroes like mighty Caesar and enjoy a range of treats including hand-made cakes. Huntsman they provide sanctuary to horses, ponies and donkeys that needed a second chance at life after suffering The Trust runs public events throughout the year but as unspeakable cruelty and terrible ordeals. Their Home of summer turns to autumn they offer fun for the whole family. Rest in Speen is a haven, a place where some of the UK’s While many of the activities are geared towards the hardest working dedicated public servants get to see out younger members of the family you can be sure there’s their twilight years in tranquillity and where those who always a little something for the grown-ups to enjoy. were badly treated can feel safe and loved again. Join them on Saturday 30th September to watch BEAUTY and The Home of Rest is a beautiful spot with some of the finest the BEAST at the outdoor cinema and go along on Friday views in the area and a great place to visit. They are open 27th October for the Halloween extravaganza to enjoy Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 2pm-4pm except some spooktacular fun including scary skeleton trails, prize for December and January when the weather isn’t great for draws, ghoulish games and a fancy-dress competition. horses or visitors. Entry is £5 per vehicle or concessions £3. If you love all things Christmas, it’s worth a visit on Jeanette Allen, Chief Executive of The Horse Trust said “We Sunday 26th November for the Neddy Noel event are very proud to attract visitors from all around the world; when you might get to meet Father Christmas and some of our residents had illustrious careers and in their there will be a host of festive treats to enjoy. working life both their riders and members of the public who saw them develop strong bonds with them, but we You can find all the details on the Events page of their really enjoy seeing new faces and it’s always a pleasure to website www.horsetrust.org.uk or by following The Horse welcome friends and family from RAF High Wycombe. Trust on Facebook www.facebook.com/HorseTrust 40