Editorial Team Editorial Chairman of the Journal t is difficult to believe that 6 months has Employed in a host of policing and security Gp Capt M S Sexton PM(RAF) passed since the last edition of the Provost appointments in support of Op OLYMPICS, 95381 8200 Parade; but what a 6 months it has been. members of the RAF Police undertook: policing, RAFP-HQ PM I Out of Area Operations have continued at intelligence, cyber, security training, venue pace; members of the RAF Police, once again, security, critical asset security and ceremonial Editor have continued to perform superbly in the duties. For those that participated, and for those Sqn Ldr J F Duffy multitude of Out-of-Area RAF Police posts left ‘holding the fort’ at home units, the manner 95381 8227 and by the time you read this, members of No in which all duties were conducted is a testament RAFP-HQ A3 A9 SO2 2 (T)PS (Op HERRICK 16) will have returned to the professionalism and ‘can do’ attitude of home following what can only be described the RAF Police trade. Assistant Editor as a ‘challenging’ tour. The article contained Your support of the Provost Parade has again WO G Owen within this edition by Sqn Ldr Curzon, OC produced a bumper set of articles on a whole host 95381 7031 2 (T)PS, on the events at Camp Bastion on of topics from charity bicycle rides through to RAFP-HQ PM WO 14th and 15th September, in addition to being reinforcing relationships with members of the an exceptionally good read, brings home the Tongan Defence Force. On behalf of both myself Provost Parade Shop Manager fact even in the (what was thought to be) and WO Gary Owen, Deputy Editor, I would FS Mandy Brooks ‘relatively safe’ confines of Camp Bastion, like to thank you for making our jobs of putting 93835 4203 all RAF Police need to be prepared to defend the magazine together so much easier. Our 02392 284572 themselves and those around them. In addition, only dilemma is in determining which articles the Close Support and ANP Mentoring article cannot be included due to space limitations and Postal Sales Manager by Cpls Wynn and Partridge also illustrates I apologise to those who may have submitted Cpl Dallinger that the RAF Police are at the cutting edge of articles that do not appear in this edition; that 93835 4356 pro-active operations in Afghanistan on a said, please keep the articles rolling in. 02392 284356 daily basis. I commend both articles to you as On a final and more sombre note, this edition examples of the vital roles that the RAF Police of the Provost Parade pays tribute to Cpl Brent Curator of the RAF Police Museum are undertaking in support of Op HERRICK. McCarthy who was killed in Afghanistan on 12 Cpl Wilkinson While it has been busy on Out of Area Ops, May 12 while serving as a member of a Police 39835 4800 it has been equally busy back in the UK. The Advisory Team. The testimonials of all those 02392 284800 Olympic and Paralympic Games gave Team who knew and served with Brent show the DCPG-DPS-ITS-Instr27 GB athletes the opportunity to demonstrate extremely high esteem in which he is held. ‘At their world beating prowess; similarly, Op the going down of the sun and in the morning, Submissions Address: OLYMPICS gave members of the RAF Police We will remember him’. Editor Provost Parade the opportunity to demonstrate their versatility, Fiat Justitia c/o Sqn Ldr Duffy capability, determination and professionalism. The Editor HQ RAF Police Building 36 RAF Henlow Bedfordshire SG16 6DN Tel: 01462 851515 ext 8227 Contents Fax 01462 858219 Email: [email protected] 6 OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS

A big thanks to Kris from Forces 16 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS Publishing for assisting the RAFP to 30 SUPPORT & TRAINING get their message across, it has been a real pleasure. We wish him the best in 35 HONOURS & AWARDS his new job. 40 COMMUNITY & CHARITY

Provost Parade is not an official publication and 48 SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT the views expressed in this magazine, unless otherwise stated, do not reflect MoD, Command 58 PROVOST PARADE SHOP or Station policy and are the personal views of the authors. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the editor or publisher. While every effort is made ON THE COVER… to ensure that advertisers are bona fida, no responsibility for the quality of goods or services offered by them can be accepted by the publisher 'When all else fades to Grey.' or editorship of the magazine.

© This magazine contains official information and should be treated with discretion by the recipient. No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine can be accepted by the publishers or printers. Advertisements are included in good faith. Published by Forces and Corporate Publishing Ltd, Hamblin House, Hamblin Court, Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 0RU. Tel: 01933 419994 Fax: 01933 419584. E-mail: [email protected] Managing Director: Ron Pearson Sub-Editor / Design: Kris Hawkins Sales Manager: Amanda Mains

Provost Parade 3 Provost Marshal’s Warrant Officer In heraldry, the Griffin's amalgamation of My push for all RAFP SNCOs and Officers lion and eagle denotes intelligence, strength, to attend SJAR workshops is a priority, which military courage and leadership; a truly fitting will ensure that we promote the right people symbol for the RAF Police. at the right time; I am the specialist member I have been PM(RAF)'s Warrant Officer on the A/Cpl – Cpl board in Nov 12. I will since June 2010. During this time I have continue to instruct TRiM for the RAF and served alongside RAF Police in Main am rolling out a TRiM CT package for our Operation Bases, Forward Operation Bases personnel both on the Home Base and on and Patrol Bases in Helmand. I have visited Operations. I look to both Managers and all Units within the UK and Cyprus and colleagues alike to continue to look out for have been lucky enough to meet extremely each other, to ensure we get the best care, by dedicated and professional RAF Police of the best people at the right time. all ranks. I have witnessed at first hand that during I have had sight of all RAF Police an extremely demanding 12 months, the bar commendations and can honestly say that was raised, and the RAF Police cleared it by a standards should be the highest. Your you should be proud of your contributions to mile. I expect that this will continue into the actions should always be beyond reproach, the Branch & Trade, Air and Defence. I have future and that by working as a team and with your integrity and professionalism should organised and participated in Adventurous our colleagues we can continue making the never waiver, your dress and deportment Training and Force Development initiatives difference. As deputy Editor of the Provost should stand you out from the rest, and your with RAF Police personnel, where natural Parade and SO3 Media Ops I can assure you behaviour both on an off duty should always leadership and a true team ethos were that because of your efforts and contribution, be impeccable. We are unique and our Ethos demonstrated by all. I continue to encourage the RAF knows where we are, what we do and makes us strong; we should not forget that. individuals to organise and participate in what we are capable of doing in the future. these events, as it benefits both the Trade Standards Gary Owen and the Force. As a Branch and Trade RAF Police Provost Marshal’s Warrant Officer

4 Provost Parade

OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS 2 TACTICAL POLICE SQN - Op HERRICK 16

After the long months of exhaustive pre- tents. Ten ‘pods’ are located off a central deployment training 2 TPS stood ready to connecting corridor, with up to 8 persons depart from RAF Henlow during the late sharing a pod. Each of the pods have been evening of Monday 16th April 2012. We set up to the taste of its occupants, some were seen off from the station by a number of are open-plan, others are divided into more senior officers from HQ RAFP and with a few personal individual bed spaces. Telephone kind words of blessing from the station Padre booths and internet PCs are located less than - Matt Stevens. Our outbound journey took 50m from our accommodation, but most us firstly via South Cerney in Gloucestershire people seem able to connect briefly to the to ‘check in’, then we retraced our steps back wireless signal that can be picked up from to RAF Brize Norton for the first leg on a the rear of our tent area. Mail sent from the (surprisingly comfortable) charter aircraft. UK seems to take up to 2 weeks to arrive Despite the lack of on-board amusement, here. A wide variety of fresh food is provided we arrived at Minhad in no time all, and the at the dining facility or ‘DFAC’, again only next day we arrived in Bastion. a short walk from the accommodation. For those whose shift work takes them away from ‘Integration’ and Handover the domestic accommodation during meal times, a menu selection is provided via ‘hot Before we could even begin to think about locks’ to the workplace. Elsewhere on Camp our full-time roles here, our first week was 604, within equally close distance, are the dedicated to the ‘RSOI’ package – Reception, laundry, a reasonably equipped gymnasium Staging, Onward Movement and Integration. and a small NAAFI selling a range of home This was a bespoke training event which comforts. rehearsed all of the essential and potentially life-saving skills which we had been taught Initial weeks over the past few months. Whilst much of this was revision, being able to use the Our first few weeks saw us start work at a equipment and undertake drills for the first frenetic pace, getting used to routines and time in a hot, dusty, desert environment was settling in. Transportation was an issue all very welcome practice. Not that ‘Day 2’ with vehicles at a real premium and shuttle was all that dusty! We caught the very end journeys are the order of the day to get people of the winter storms and suffered a day of to and from work. A few bicycles were utterly torrential downpours (not dissimilar available to provide a bit more flexibility to the likes of which the UK has experienced (that’s when the Ops Officer hasn’t broken since we left). Lying prone on the ground in them). Building and infrastructure projects 2” deep wet, sandy ‘gloop’ during our firing have seen enhancements and refurbishments range practice was an unusual way to start were made at the Main and Eastern Entry the tour. Points. All in all, each of the Sections was Several days of ‘on the job’ tuition kept very busy with various regular – and followed. Our colleagues from HERRICK sometimes unforeseen activities. 15 did a sterling job of ensuring that we Camp Bastion is huge, comparable in size received the very best possible introduction to Reading, and host to tens of thousands of to our new roles. All aspects of the tasks ISAF personnel. Not only that, the airfield were explained in detail and mentoring made is home to hundreds of aircraft, and is the certain that a proper degree of continuity strategic focal point for troops and supplies was maintained. ‘Transfer of Authority’ was arriving in Theatre. It was therefore critical completed at midday on 28th April allowing that the base was well defended, and most our predecessors their first proper ‘day off’ importantly, that both on and off base security in over 200 days before flying home to some tasks requiring the highest order of diligence well-deserved leave and time with families. and skill were carried out by the right people. The members of the Ops Team had perhaps Food, Accommodation and the most varied role of all the 2TPS sections Camp Life focussing activity on specific, intelligence- led areas. Flexibility and versatility were Coming out to an austere operational the watchwords, with the section very often environment, our expectations were not high. diverted onto short-notice tasks. Given But just as we had been briefed to expect the diversity of roles that the Ops Team during our ‘Families’ Day’ at RAF Henlow performed it was essential that the right mix back in March, all of the domestic facilities of people were available for each task. Often we require are based around the relatively activities were conducted alongside security new accommodation of ‘Camp 604’. The staff from the US Provost Marshal’s Office or 2 TPS living area comprises heavy duty from the Tongan Defence Service.

6 Provost Parade OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS

A combined effort and detainees, along with vehicle drivers all seeking to gain access. The most critical Off-base patrols were often accompanied aspects of this job were constant vigilance by the Force Protection Wing’s Counter- and attention to detail. Intelligence Field Team – CIFT. Their specific role is to engage with the locals A Comprehensive Approach in order to understand the atmosphere and feelings amongst the local population. On Every individual wishing to enter Camp occasion, these patrols were partnered with Bastion, without exception, is required to sections from 51 Sqn RAF Regt. There go through a multi-point screening and was a real sense of camaraderie throughout identity check. Staff employed at the MEP the entire Squadron. Members of 2TPS have the role of being amongst the first to were keen to volunteer to help out as often ensure that no one and nothing that could as possible and everyone was given the potentially be used to cause harm is allowed opportunity to experience the challenges to enter the Base. It all adds up to ensuring faced by the Ops Team. that Camp Bastion clearly demonstrates an exceptionally tough, vigorous control of The First Line Of Defence entry. The procedure is intentionally long and protracted, as it needs to be. The MEP is the primary access point to Camp Bastion and provides an entry and A New Home For FLS exit point for vehicles and pedestrians. The RAF Police provide an integral and vitally The Air Flt – FLS and ATSy sections – have important part of the stringent control of undergone a vast transformation during our entry duties performed there. Alongside 2 time. In terms of working conditions, both TPS personnel are members of the United teams have seen a quantum leap forward. States Marine Corps and Army, Bahraini The days of working from tents are long Special Forces, the Tonga Defence Service gone. The new ‘Combined Passenger and specialist search dogs from the UK’s Handling Facility’ – CPHF – provides two Theatre Military Working Dog Support purpose built halls, a separate Departures Unit. These staff all combined to perform and Arrivals building, with dedicated the most robust, layered approach, ensuring working accom for the 2TPS personnel. that Camp Bastion is provided with the very Most importantly, FLS can now work from highest level of security assurance. 2 TPS a ‘winterised’ facility, no longer are they at is assigned responsibility for searching all risk from flooding! In terms of output, the persons entering the Camp and this includes two sections now work much closer together pedestrians and drivers of all vehicles. Each with opportunities taken to spread workloads day provides a stream of regular as well more effectively across the complete range as new faces and brings many challenging of FLS tasks. situations with workers, contractors’ staff, local national visitors for hospital patients Sqn Ldr Rich Curzon

Provost Parade 7 OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS INSURGENT ATTACK – CAMP BASTION

That Friday evening I was lying on my of the airfield. The Taliban had destroyed that were made from the Flight Line bed reading a book. The constant drone 6 AV-8B ‘Harriers’ and caused damage to and Ops Teams added significantly of the dozens of nearby air conditioning several hangars. to the situational awareness back at units and over-flying helicopters provided the Operations Centre. I immediately the usual background noise. Almost Along with Sgt Rogers, the 2 TPS personnel recognised that the large number of incidentally, my ears registered the sound from the Flight Line and the ATSy teams passengers concentrated within the of a series of dull thuds, repeated ‘crumps’ were amongst the first personnel at confines of the passenger terminal were at somewhere off in the distance. It was Bastion to realise something was very risk. These individuals all had a ring-side noticeable, but not at all unusual given amiss. They had been providing security seat to the events unfolding 1500 meters the amount of practice firing that takes escorting the UK military passengers off away across the expanse of tarmac on the place on the local ranges. I got up to go the recently-arrived RAF TriStar. This other side of the airfield. Being unarmed, to the toilet, ready to settle down for the aircraft was running on ground power and and with no way of immediately knowing night. Coming back to my tent I was met was in the process of being loaded with where the Taliban were intending to in the corridor by Cpl Proctor, from the around 140 passengers hoping to start target, the protection of this exposed Counter Intelligence Field Team, when their journey back home. group became an obvious priority. This the tannoy system blurted into life, its The Bastion QRF and most elements of developed into 2 TPS’ main effort in the echoes resonating across the darkness 51 Sqn RAF Regiment along with the first few hours of the attack, and so all of the camp: We grabbed the printed USMC were swift to respond and engage available members of the Ops Team were copy of the accommodation list from the Taliban intruders. The RAF Regiment deployed to the terminal to reinforce those the notice board in the corridor. We all gunners' aim was to reclaim control of of the Flight Line and ATSy teams who instinctively knew that measures were the airfield. Supported by a number of had already got stuck straight in. They now underway. I managed to grab a lift different direct fire weapons, and co- certainly have their own stories to tell as to drive me and the Sqn 2i/c the 2 km from ordinating the assault with members of the stray rounds flew in their direction and our accommodation to or work station at 2/10 Battalion US Marine Corps, they over their heads. the Combined Joint Operations Centre. moved methodically across the airfield engaging in various fire fights as they dealt The Taliban attack lasted most of the night It transpired that heavily armed insurgents with pockets of resistance over a period and as daylight came, our tasks focused had orchestrated a well-planned and of some four hours. They quickly co- on dealing with the consequences, such executed attack on the eastern perimeter ordinated ground troops and air assets to as conducting searches across the airfield suppress the to verify that no enemy remained on the enemy and airfield and conducting checks to ensure then utilised that no munitions remained across the those assets airfield – a mammoth task. Testament to clear the to the speed of response, Bastion was airfield of any able to maintain limited air operations remaining throughout and full airfield operations insurgents. for the larger Strategic AT aircraft After the resumed within a matter of hours. 2 initial fire TPS continued to contribute with further fight, 51 searches of the compounds occupied by Squadron suspected ‘facilitators’ and inspections of regrouped, the broader airfield perimeter. they then systematically Saturday evening arrived and I found moved myself sat at my desk chatting to the Force through the Protection Wing Chief of Staff. That was airfield. when the Indirect Fire Alarm sounded. The reports The last IDF (rocket) attack at Bastion

8 Provost Parade OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS

of my life. This time it was close incredible. The previous Thursday we - but fortunately no harm done. had been busy providing security for the Secretary of State for Defence. Friday had Once again, the well disciplined seen the complex, co-ordinated strike by mechanisms kicked in. The 2 the Taliban, closely followed by the IDF TPS Ops Team were amongst the attack on the Saturday. first to be dispatched along with 51 Sqn personnel in conducting In the most testing of front-line conditions, Post Attack Recovery measures. no one from 2 TPS was found wanting. It would be many hours later that The Military Police, and RAF Police in we allowed ourselves to get some particular, work in more areas across much needed rest. Camp Bastion and provide the most visible and direct contribution to the Things started to settle down security effort than probably any other over the next few days into unit, branch or trade. My Sqn’s efforts some sort of normal routine. on HERRICK 16 have cemented the However, on reflection, I think positive operational reputation of the had taken place almost 12 months earlier. that our appreciation of just what RAF Police and for that we must all constitutes 'normal' had risen somewhat! feel immensely proud. Whatever the “Incoming! … I said – INCOMING… In the space of just one short week 2 TPS individual’s personal role, the men and IT’S GOING TO BE CLOSE!” and Camp Bastion found itself involved women of 2 TPS have worked hard, long in such a wide variety of tasks it sounds hours and yet risen above the constant These were the words that we heard pressures to remain resolutely bellowed out from the Operations room positive, good humoured and next door. The exact language used Incoming! … utterly professional throughout. was somewhat more colourful! The ‘Automated Sense and Warn’ detachment I said - INCOMING… by Sqn Ldr Richard Curzon, whose operators sit within this room had Officer Commanding picked up a track of an incoming rocket. No 2 Tactical Police Squadron Lying amongst the dust under my desk, IT’S GOING TO BE those seemed like the longest few seconds CLOSE!

Provost Parade 9 OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS Op HERRICK 15 Close Support

Close Support / ANP Mentoring Op HERRICK 6, when Cpl Partridge was a pretty amazing! Op Herrick 15 young Private in the Royal Anglian Regiment. The day started with the Ops multiple going We were split into various platoons, that out on a short recce, no insurgent activity for There are many myths flying around our trade helped us to integrate very quickly and from once, but a shed load of cannabis was found. about the Close Support (CS) and Afghan that moment on we were treated as one of At 1100hrs, Freddie the Bugler from 2 Rifles Mentoring roles and the majority of the time their own. The next 6 months then involved stood in the middle of our Temporary Check these opinions come from people who have various exercises in Germany and the UK Point (TCP) and played the last post. Each not fulfilled the role. Don’t get me wrong, I with 20 Armoured Brigade and the battle person from the Signallers to Sangar men know that it is not for everyone but I can’t groups we would be with in theatre. paused to remember those who had fallen think of anything else that I have done that Although split into either a CS or Mentoring before us. Our patrol, out on the ground, is more fulfilling. role neither job is exclusive. If employed on paused and took to a knee; it was a very Cpl Gittings, Cpl Partridge, Cpl Bowen, Close Support you may still find yourself poignant moment to be in the heart of a field, Cpl McCleary and Cpl Wynn started out with as the person that the OC will look to help listening to the Last Post echo across the a week together at RAF Henlow, checking and liaise with the Afghan National Security poppy fields of Helmand towards us. fitness levels by familiarising ourselves with Forces that you work alongside; be it ANA, The next phase of the Op was in the the various Army fitness tests we would ANP, ALP, AUP or NDS. Likewise someone early afternoon, so not a lot of time to turn be required to undertake over the next few employed on Mentoring duties may find around. Ammo states were checked, batteries weeks, but mainly getting to know each themselves having to recover evidence whilst changed, flap sheets filled as well as a bit of other as although a few of us knew each on a joint patrol with ANSF. food and manning the temporary Sangars other a little we had all come from separate You sometimes become a jack of all that we had knocked up on the roof to give units, from the top of Scotland to Central trades helping with J2 as well as enrolling the guys who had been up there all morning Germany. Cat 2 and Cat 2+ IPDT followed Local Nationals (LN), conducting Shuras, a bit of rest. This was what the Rifles Captain at RAF Honington alongside many of the as well as being expected to carry out the called the start of ‘The Battle of Ali Khosi’ RAFP dog handlers we would then come day-to-day role of an infantry man. The job and I was attached to one of the multiples. across during training and tour. The Cat 2+ is varied and rewarding and on our tour all Everything started well, we went out the in particular was worth its weight in gold as of us experienced more ‘Police Work’ than back gate of our TCP and the route was it allowed us to familiarise ourselves with we are probably likely to do in the rest of cleared to the destination Compound. The drills and equipment that we would use over our time in the UK. We carried out evidence ANA did their thing and we were called the coming months. handling, prisoner processing and custody, forward. I got inside and started talking to Straight from RAF Honington we drove intelligence gathering, biometrics, Battle the compound owner getting his details. out to Sennelager in Germany where we Damage assessment, statement taking as well He gave the usual at first; saying that no would be based for the next 6 months or so, as being expected to muck in and act as any Insurgents were around etc, but the more I attached to 110 Pro Coy, RMP. Sennelager infantry man would. talked to him, the more he started to open and nearby Padderborn were also the home It is hard to describe the daily role as up. He started saying that he wanted ISAF to to 20 Armoured Brigade who would be the everyone who carries out the role experiences keep him and his family safe and that before lead Battle group for Op HERRICK 15. Apart different things, so here is an extract from the we started this Op into Ali Khosi there were from a bit of the expected RAF banter (and diary I wrote whilst out on tour. loads of Insurgents in the village, but they we gave as good as we got back) we were have since pushed to the South-East of the welcomed with open arms by the RMP and 11th November 2011 – Cpl Wynn – area although they still regularly come to a big reason for this seemed to be due to Op Lazi Bam – Close Support the Compounds and intimidate the locals. the accomplishments and professionalism Then all of a sudden the lads on top of the shown by previous RAF Policeman during Remembrance day and the day that some compound roof got opened up on from the TABER and then CS/ANPMT. The Company of us, ‘The Ali Khosi 8’, really thought the tree line near to an adjacent Compound. Sergeant Major also enjoyed recalling game was up. A situation I hope never repeats Reports also started coming through that stories from his time with Cpl Partridge on itself, although I must say the buzz was Insurgents were using the piles of corn in the

10 Provost Parade OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS

fields around us to stash their weapons and make him pay for an IED. This guy wasn’t and this time he listened and got into some then walk away. This carried on for about half taking no for an answer, so all we could do cover. Things were getting pretty mad with and hour with fire being exchanged between was take cover as best as possible. He grabbed magazines, UGLs and 66s getting unloaded ourselves and the Insurgents before they just the container and threw it into the adjacent and you could tell from the multiple Sgt’s seemed to disappear and everything went field, no bang luckily! voice that he was starting to get a bit worried. quiet. LNs started to return to the fields to Just as the Compound owner was climbing He told us that it looked like the other guys work, so atmospherics were picking up and back down, I went to the back door of the out on the ground weren’t going to be able the call came through to crack on with the compound where one of our guys was looking to get to us so we were going to have to fight mission. We decided to have an extra gunner out. As I approached him we were again our way out. and a couple of others stay in the compound opened up on, this time with Insurgent rounds Another lull in the contact and a motorbike with us so they could provide overwatch. hitting into the Compound wall just above with a guy and two women approached. I I started to chat again with the compound our heads and then we started taking more don’t know if the guy was deliberately being owner when one of the lads spotted a incoming from the South and the East with an idiot or just didn’t understand but he kept container on the roof. It was in a perfect UGLs falling just short of us. We all grabbed laughing and walking towards us. Myself and firing position and had what appeared to be a position and started hitting them back; the the radio operator were screaming at him to a wire coming from a drum. The compound exchange was deafening and continued on stop, but he wasn’t listening. He was only owner started telling me that he didn’t know for nearly an hour. This lot just didn’t want about 30 meters from us now and then all what it was or how it had got there. Things to go away. The other multiples and the ANA of a sudden someone opened up on us again were starting to get a little heated as the were all getting hit at their various positions with a belt of what sounded like PKM. These LMG gunner had been lying right next to as well, so we knew that we were going to were close, very close. Again we returned fire it and was convinced that something was have to ride this out. and again during this contact two grenades going to go bang. Understandable after the The Interpreter had only been with the hit the compound wall, luckily it was the previous few days’ IED strikes that we had Ops team for a couple of weeks, this was his one wall that we didn’t have a gunner on. suffered. We started to call in a 10 liner as first contact and he hated every second of it. They were obviously trying to chuck them all the signs and requirements were there. He started shouting at me that he could hear into the compound and to be honest if they Next thing we know the Compound owner people at the other side of the compound had made it in someone would have been hit, is gingerly creeping up onto the roof towards wall, I’m screaming at him to get inside we had already been lucky once. Again we this container. We are shouting at this guy to one of the buildings until we called for him went back to watch positions. The Interpreter leave it, but he replies to the Interpreter that but he wouldn’t move and then ‘boom’. came over again and said he could hear them he knows what will happen, that lots of ISAF A grenade had come over the wall near to talking on the other side of the wall. A man in will come to his Compound and when they him; somehow apart from looking like he’d black was seen moving across the field to our leave the Insurgents will come for him and been in a sandstorm for a month he was ok east, he appeared to be carrying something.

Provost Parade 11 OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS

Next thing we knew the guy screamed and of link. As soon as he fired his last shot we ran Herrick 15 Close Support – unleashed a burst at us. The LMG gunner into the orchard and formed a baseline whilst Cpl Partridge returned fire and this caused the firing on returning fire. The incoming stopped and we to us to stop and the guy on the motorbike went back to watch positions and all looked I was lucky enough to be attached to A came back. We just about managed to get the into the orchard ahead of us. It was only about Company, 3rd Battalion the Royal Regiment Interpreter to the doorway to speak to this guy 30x25 meters but the view was restricted by of Scotland The Black Watch based in Nad but he was shaking like a leaf. I said to him the trees and bushes that remained. There Ali. In the Close Support (CS) role you ‘Don’t worry buddy, we are here protecting was quite an eerie feeling about when all have many jobs. Every Police orientated you’, as I said it we got opened up on again, went quiet and the Sgt signalled for us to job came to me. This included working I couldn’t have timed that one worse. As we slowly move forward. Being the first out, I with and mentoring the Afghan Security had already searched the guy, I bundled him ended up on the right flank next to a stream Forces. I found that the OC would ask for into the compound and the owner confirmed and a wall. Visibility was really low with the my advice on all Police aspects including that it was his brother. We told them all to light fading and smoke still lingering in the best ways to mentor Afghan Police. I was stay in one room, keep their heads down air from the AH and ensuing fire fight. As expected to automatically liaise with the and not move. After we had returned fire we we moved forward we were looking for any Company Sergeant Major to make sure all reverted back to watch positions. Our sniper signs of movement, I kept eyes on the stream detention processes were in place. Like was running around getting ammo states off and wall, and something caught my eye in the most Ops you find yourself in the thick of everyone. We were pretty low and the light stream shining. I looked down and could see the action. You fight alongside the infantry was now starting to fade. Most guys only had that it was a magazine for an AK variant and and then you are expected to flick straight a magazine left and one reverted to standing it looked like it hadn’t been there long. The back to being a Policeman as soon as the by the doorway to the orchard with just his Sgt came over but we couldn’t get too close to fighting has finished. Most of the Ops that pistol as that was all he had left. the magazine as bushes were obstructing our A Company carried out were Helicopter A waft of smoke came over us and the path and we were concerned that if the device insertions. There was one particular Op Sgt asked if anyone could smell ‘ganja?’ As was booby trapped or if something came over which we were involved in where we found he did so there was another shout, which the wall at us we didn’t have that much room ourselves experience 24 direct fire attacks sounded as if it was right next to us on to play with. Two or three rounds then pinged in only 16 hours, this was one of the most the other side of the compound wall in the past us from the wall. We withdrew back to kinetic days on Op HERRICK 15. As we orchard and we were getting hit again. One the start of the orchard and as we got there pushed further into the desert we found of the lads kicked a door in to return fire into we could see a part of the wall adjacent to the greater resistance. After receiving support the orchard but we were still taking incoming. stream had been broken away and footprints from an Apache Helicopter we managed to As we continued to try to suppress with fire, and shell cases lined the muddy floor. I got break into a compound that had been used the Sgt got the go ahead for the Apache to my ‘Police’ head back on and proceeded to as a firing point. Once inside the compound come in, they knew by now we were down bag the cases and take photos of the prints. It we found a range of items which included, to the bare bones of ammunition. The Sgt looked like whoever was there had scarpered 7.62 ammunition, chest rig, 2 UGLs, binos screamed ‘Danger Close’ twice and we ran into the nearby fields and beyond. and IED making equipment. This is when into a bit of hardcover. The Apache came in Back in the compound we regrouped, I the whole of the Company are looking to on the positions in the orchard only 20-30 gave the compound owner a note, checked you as the Policeman to take charge. I had to meters from where we were. The fire from that they were all okay and told him to come process the detainee as quickly as possible. the Apaches was so close it felt like at any and see us and some point tomorrow about I needed to make sure that the evidence was moment it was going to hit us. The Apache the damage. The other callsigns were all gathered correctly. We only had a very short ceased firing and there was a period of back in, so we lined up by the doorway and time frame to complete this as the helicopters probably only a few seconds but felt like an waited for the call to complete the dirty dash were on route to pick us up. As we were on eternity where nothing was said and everyone back across open ground to our TCP. Again route to the helicopter pick up point we came just looked at each other with a sense of not much chance to catch breath or exchange under attack again. The fighting continued all relief. Cracks of gunfire then came in again stories, I needed to get some information the way up to stepping on to the back of the from our South, they must have laid low for down on what we had recovered whilst it helicopters. We returned to our base in Nad the airstrikes and then come straight back was still fresh and ready to get it sent back to Ali. The Job didn’t finish there though, as in. The Sgt asked who had grenades left. Bastion when I next got back to the CP. Then soon as I was back I then needed to record a Once checked and prepped, we kicked the it was another night on the roof manning the number of statements to send back to Bastion. door to the orchard open and ran. We then positions before tomorrow’s operations. Many Ops were similar to this. 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Provost Parade 13 OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS AFGHAN PROSECUTION SUPPORT SECTION (APSS) The Afghan Prosecution Support Section Therefore, APSS case files are kept to simple with 2 investigation teams each comprising (APSS) was established in Feb 2012 to plain English and utilise words and phrases of 2 x Cpls (1x RAFP & 1 x RMP) and an facilitate a partnered investigative process acceptable to the Afghan court. evidence manager. APSS is supported by 2 capable of delivering sound evidential Providing that sufficient evidence is full-time Interpreters and a resident National cases for prosecution through the Afghan obtained to support a transfer, detainees are Directorate of Security Liaison Officer judicial system. To support the development handed over, together with an APSS case NDS (LO). of an independent, credible and effective file and all supporting Afghan investigative capability, in order to evidence, to either the combat insurgent influence and reinforce National Directorate the Government of the Islamic Republic of of Security (NDS) on Afghanistan (GIRoA) rule of law. terrorism charges or APSS case files are similar to those the Counter Narcotics normally raised by Service Police but Prosecution contain more pictorial evidence. The Afghan Authority (CNPA) judicial system prefers physical evidence on narcotics charges. or pictorial evidence backed by Statements APSS is currently of Witness. Additionally, all APSS case managed by a RAF files are translated into Dari by the APSS Police Warrant interpreters and many English words do Officer. The section not translate across with the same meaning. OC is a RMP Capt,

the globe, talking to specialist companies, UK which will reduce any outside reliance. Providing canine choosing suitable dogs, concluding contracts, That will set ourselves up for moving into and putting support networks into place. the core programme. heroes for the They have recently delivered a number of As Operation HERRICK has additional search dog capabilities to theatre progressed, dogs have become as important front line as urgent operational requirements - the as any of the other more high-tech means dogs are used to locate improvised explosive of detecting threats. It is a key lifesaving Military working dogs provide valuable devices (IEDs) in support of specialist capability and a key part of force protection capability to British patrols on the front line. search teams and dismounted patrols. Future for a patrol. Troop numbers will be withdrawn But procurement by DE&S begins many inclusion in the core equipment programme from Afghanistan in the next two years miles from Afghanistan. is the aim: quicker than dog numbers. The dog will have They may be man's best friend, but "Because things used to be done so a role in Afghanistan right to the end. nowhere is that more true than on the front quickly, we probably paid more than Defence The team has developed new skills while line of Afghanistan, where they are proving traditionally would pay for dogs. So we have carrying out its role: You would not normally their worth saving a host of lives. Military taken a whole capability approach. We have describe the dog as equipment and people working dogs have seen their profile rise not just bought the dog; we have bought get very upset when you describe it as such. as they become more successful in sniffing the whole support package, from leashes, The dog is an animal, and it has equipment out threats to British forces on patrol in to a first aid kit for the handler, to all the around it to support it. Welfare of the dog is Helmand province. RAF Police & Army kennelling for the dogs to live in. We have key: There is a range of kennelling available Dog handlers are specialists; so are the worked with other delivery teams across and we put the dog in the best kennelling members of the team charged with procuring DE&S [kennelling through Expeditionary the particular location can accommodate. them. It's not just a case of popping down to Campaign Infrastructure, first aid kits They don't live with their handlers; they the local dogs' home for an animal which through Medical and General Supplies, are not pets, they are working dogs. We will eventually have to work in the sand and food through Defence Food Services], have invested in the best first aid which dust of Afghanistan. effectively conducting the orchestra of teams is available at forward locations. Full vet The five-strong team took on the task rather than playing all the instruments; the support is available at Camp Bastion and the of bringing greater coherence to the sheet music though, the requirements, are dogs go through the same evacuation chain procurement and support of dogs across all ours. We have been responsible for the as the soldiers. They will be evacuated to the Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) project management. The team's buyers Defence Animal Centre, if necessary, which a couple of years ago. Members now scour look for dogs between 18 months and three is the final link in the chain. We don't take years old who will already short cuts on animal welfare. We think they have had some training: We are great dogs and it is marvellous to watch don't specify a breed but them doing their work. You cannot just pop the majority are typically down to the local dogs' home or contact a Belgian Malinois or Labrador recognised breeder. These dogs are highly Retrievers. With these dogs trained animals capable of detecting IEDs we also bought handler and performing the task in extremely hostile training where the handler environments that include dust, sand and will be locally trained with helicopters. There are limited people who the dog. Then we'll ship them have the skills to supply and train such a back to the UK and eventually specialist dog. It is thanks to the military on to Afghanistan. We are in working dogs team that we have been able the process of establishing to deploy a significant 'detect' capability that that type of capability in the has saved multiple lives in theatre.

14 Provost Parade OUT OF AREA OPERATIONS Biometric Support Advisors Alongside the Brigade The Biometric Support Unit is a Tri Service 12, around the Bowri Dasht, in the Nad-e- Unit based out of HQ IEF, Camp Bastion. Ali District, when I was attached to A Coy, The Unit is made up of: OC BSU (RAFP), 1 Royal Anglian. My role remained the FS BSU (RAFP), Technical Support and the same; however, this task was different from Biometric Support Advisors. The Advisors the rest and I was involved in the briefings are deployed in Nad-e-Ali, NES (N) & (S) from the outset. We road moved to PB Pimon and Lashkah Gah to support the ground call and I briefed the Royal Anglian section signs with the biometric equipment they are commanders. operating. After all my checks I finally got my head In Apr 12 I was deployed to Patrol base down just after midnight in an open canvas (PB) Shawqat, HQ of the 1st Battalion the tent on the floor. I was awoken at about Royal Anglian Regiment (The Vikings), in 0330 by a sharp pain in my left arm and to we ran off in single file making ready as we the Nad-e-Ali district of Helmand Province my horror I felt something fairly large on stepped off the helicopter. as the Biometric Support Advisor; a role my arm, then I heard a scuttle on the plastic Once all the dust and noise settled, the which I thoroughly enjoyed. It is a very floor. Being tired I couldn’t contemplate atmospherics quickly warned us that we demanding role for any rank, but as an A/Cpl what it could have been but I glanced to my were not wanted there. We were deep into the I thrived on the responsibility and pressure left and saw a large camel spider in the door Dasht, and cautiously moved to a compound that was applied on me from all ranks from way of the tent enlightened by the moon and discovered a number of AK-47s with Sgt to Colonel. light. I struggled to get back to sleep for the ammunition. We entered the compound and I was constantly required to move around next hour. 0430 arrived and I was up getting within 10 minutes we came under contact. We the AO to deliver training to the ground ready. At first light I glanced down at my arm were told to sit tight behind the compound call signs and to support several Operations to find 3 or 4 raised bubbles full of a clear wall and the next thing I remember was an which included a foot patrol at 0030, to a liquid in the crease of my elbow, it raised Apache helicopter hovering about 80 ft above secure position where we waited for first concern but there wasn't much I could do us and then out of nowhere it fired a Hellfire light. Being part of a 14 hour foot patrol until the end of the job. missile onto the firing point. wearing full PPE, in 50 degree heat, whilst Chinook helicopters flew us in to position. I We returned to Bastion by Chinook soon trying to operate my camera was definitely was a bit apprehensive but full of excitement. after, where I de-briefed my team and then a tough experience! We landed and tabbed into the location. The focussed on another day on the front line. The task that sticks in my mind was in Jun ramp dropped at the back of the Chinook and by Cpl Scott Southern

Provost Parade 15 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS RAF POLICE SUPPORT

Now that the dust has settled on what was Wellington Barracks. force at RAF Northolt to provide a level an extremely successful Olympics, both for • MWD Support. Two RAFP SNCOs of security protection commensurate with our Olympians and for the Service personnel supported Thames Valley Police by the the increased threat and risks to air assets. involved in providing the secure environment provision of specialist Explosive Search within which the myriad of Olympic events capability. In sum, throughout the Olympics period 74 occurred, the following provides a brief • Intelligence and Cyber. RAFP counter RAFP and 27 MGPS personnel, amassing a synopsis of the vital security support provided intelligence and computer security total of in excess of 6000 days on task, were by the RAF Police. personnel provided support to the deployed to critical security appointments RAFP personnel played key roles in the intelligence services through the provision that provided a level of security assurance provision of security support, both to Defence of COT operatives, by intelligence that enabled HMG’s strategic intent, ‘to and other Government Agencies, where the analysis at the Olympic Intelligence deliver a safe and secure Games in keeping whole gamut of their policing and security Centre and as members of the Cyber with the Olympic culture and spirit’, to be competencies and capabilities were utilised Coordination Team. achieved. The gold standard performance of to full effect. From A/Cpls policing the • GBAD Sy Advice. In the run up to the all RAFP personnel involved in the provision Service community in support of HDPFs to Games, members of Security Consultancy of Games security has been recognised in Wg Cdrs providing venue security assurance Flt, conducted surveys throughout London numerous laudatory comments received by and specialist cyber threat coordination, in support of the placement of GBAD HQ RAF Police. the diverse nature of the tasks tested and systems. challenged all RAF Police involved; and they • RAF Northolt. In support of Operations were not found wanting. The detail below from RAF Northolt RAFP and MPGS provides a flavour of the diverse nature of personnel augmented the existing security the tasks on which RAFP personnel have been employed throughout Op OLYMPICS:

• G4S Training Assurance. Ten SNCO/ JNCOs designed and provided security training to in excess of 15,000 Venue Security Force personnel, and subsequently conducted venue security assurance activities. • Joint Service Policing. With RMP counterparts, 13 RAFP undertook the policing of all Service personnel involved in Op OLYMPICS throughout the London area. • Venue Security. A number of RAF Police officers undertook venue security C2 roles at Olympic Park, Wembley Stadium, Wembley Arena and

16 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS RAF Police – Working in the Olympic Intelligence Centre

In the 1968 Mexico Olympic Games, Richard I was employed as an Intelligence Analyst Douglas "Dick" Fosbury completely changed and given the position as the teams’ 2i/c, Although not working directly for the the history of track and field by completely working for a Higher Analyst in a team of Military during my time at the OIC, I ended revolutionising the high jump event, inventing seven from a number of different Police up being a military POC on a number of a unique "back-first" technique, now known Forces from around the UK. This was an occasions, generally because a call from as the Fosbury Flop. This was a first for this enormous challenge and honour, especially Military causes excitement but also terror to sport and he was told that his method would coming from a Defence background. But some civilian colleagues at the OIC. These not work, but it did and is now adopted by I found the transition fairly easy, simply requests came from the Strategic Joint all Olympic high jumpers today. due to our military work ethic and previous Commanders via their Intelligence staff, During the London 2012 Olympic Games, I training I had received and involvement with where we were asked to provide hostile had the privilege to be part of an agency that Intelligence processes in my normal day job recognisance threats, Ground Base Air was a new and revolutionary intelligence at the RAFP Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) Defence location and protest assessments agency, which people said would not work. at RAF Henlow. and also provided assessments for 6 chosen I was an RAF Police NCO in the heart Our team’s role was to provide intelligence locations to house the extra troops that were of ‘All Threats’ intelligence at the Olympic development, threat assessments (both called up during the Games. Intelligence Centre (OIC). written and verbal), analysis for ‘all threats’ And then as quickly as it started, it was over When I was first told I was heading down to the Olympic and Paralympic Games and it was a job extremely well done. I have to the Olympics, I thought, “I can’t have been including Terrorism, Public Order (Domestic had the joy of being part of something new, selected for Team GB? Those days are long Extremism), Serious and Organised Crime unique and never tested. Some said having gone.” So to get the opportunity to be the and Natural Disaster elements covering 24/7 a national intelligence agency like this would only RAF Serviceman and more importantly during the whole Games period. not work, but we proved them wrong and we the first RAF Police representative to have These assessments would require me ended up on the other side of two great Games worked in this environment, I was simply to speak with a large number of different with great results, good feedback and most ‘chuffed.’ agencies, including the Joint Terrorism importantly and without doubt, due to the The OIC was a multi-agency team, Analysis Centre, National Domestic thousands of Armed Forces personnel and which was part of the Specialist Crime Extremism Unit, National Community Games Makers….. a safe and secure Olympic Division (SCD) 30 of the Metropolitan Tensions Team, CO11 (Protest Team), and Paralympics. Police Service (MPS) based in the heart of Security Services, UK and Foreign Police London. It included the Metropolitan Police forces and other Law enforcement agencies Service (MPS), other UK Police Forces, in order to collect a number of different Now I am definitely not known as a RAF UK Security and Intelligence agencies intelligence strands in order to make the ‘PR’ machine, but every person I met whilst and other organisations. The role of the assessment. seconded at the OIC, either from Government OIC was to draw together the national and My team worked predominately on strategic to Celebrity (no name dropping), I have international strands of intelligence and documents, which included the Olympic always championed the RAF Police and for provide intelligence assessments. These were Strategic Threat Assessment, Daily Baseline those who visited me at the OIC from the then used by operational decision makers Assessments for the Olympic Torch Relay Military, can confirm my work space proudly to plan their mitigations and shape their (OTR) which was a 72 hour look ahead which demonstrated that. operations. It gave the wider Olympic and provided local intelligence and policing If this opportunity arises again, I believe, Paralympic Family an accurate understanding commanders with a more direct and focused in fact I know that any member of the RAF of the threat picture. assessment to cover their participation in Police would be able to stand up and take the OTR. this challenge, simply because we are good Olympic Intelligence We also compiled Subject Profiles on at what we do, do it well and with little fuss. Olympic and Paralympic Athletes, High For those hoping to be at Rio 2016…… boa “Intelligence which identifies or suggests a Profile Persons including royalty and sorte no Brasil. clear and direct threat to the security or safety assessments on Olympic sponsors, as a by Sgt Jim Harries of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic number had previously attracted unwanted Games, including competitors, organisers, protest attention. These sponsor assessments officials, spectators, venues and infrastructure were compiled utilising their own intelligence or; intelligence that identifies or suggests, any gathering elements. criminality or action that either by its nature These Strategic or bespoke assessments or association with the London 2012 Olympic would be compiled for the Governmental and Paralympic Games causes damage to the departments, Gold and Silver Police integrity of the Games” Commands, other Police and Law Enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies from competing countries, I first arrived at the OIC in March 2012 with major sponsors and the London four other HM Forces personnel; one from Organising Committee for the Olympic the Royal Navy Communications Branch and Paralympic Games chaired by Lord and three from the British Army Military Coe. Intelligence Corps. Once we had settled in, Weekly, my team also had the daunting we completed further vetting processes and task of preparing briefings for our OIC undertook a number of civilian courses at the Commander, Cdr Sue Wilkinson (MPS) in Hendon Police College, training centre for the order for her to brief the Home Secretary, MPS, which helped us familiarise ourselves Olympic Ministers and London Mayor on Sgt Jim Harries, RAF Police with our new MPS and Government systems. Olympic Intelligence and potential issues. (The one on the left)

Provost Parade 17 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS RAF Police Support to the Olympic Cyber Coordination Team by Wg Cdr Ian Fancourt, Incident Management Team Leader, UK Cyber Security Operations Centre ‘Maybe no news really is good news. I we’ve been waiting for you to get here to following capabilities: realise a lead that says ‘Nothing Happened’ start things off’ came the response. Ah. isn’t going to excite a lot of people, but when Well not quite as it turned out as much of Olympic Cyber Impact Appreciation. The the entire world is watching and almost the high level preparation was well-advanced OCCT was to: expecting a significant cyber attack, the fact including the preparation of CONOPS; • Maintain an awareness of global cyber that the cyber security team for the London the signing of MOU’s with the National events through contributing organisation and Olympics left them all wondering why an Olympic Coordination Centre (NOCC) in open source reporting. attack never materialised isn’t just good New Scotland Yard; and discussions with the • Appreciate and understand the impact of news – it’s big news. The Games, dubbed the Cabinet Office, the Department for Culture, cyber events on the continuity and/or delivery largest social media event of all time and the Media and Sport, regional police forces and of a safe and secure Games. most technologically-dependent Olympiad in LOCOG amongst others. It was also clear • Take any appropriate reporting and history, went off without a hitch’. that considerable effort had been expended coordination action arising from these Mark Hatton, President/CEO, Core Security in setting up our operating facility in our assessments. USA host’s building (Thames House) on London’s During my September 2011 job interview Embankment. Cyber Incident Coordination. The OCCT with the Head of CSOC for the newly- What remained to be done however was to was to: created post of CSOC Incident Management fill in the large blank space that existed below • Triage reported cyber incidents and Team Leader it was indicated to me almost the high level CONOPs e.g. what would the direct them to the relevant organisation for in passing that, amongst other things, with OCCT look like? Which departments should resolution. the post would come some involvement in be represented? By how many people? On • Work closely with the LOCOG Technical the security preparations for the London what shift pattern? How would we deal Operations Centre to resolve issues affecting 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. with incidents? In Olympic terms what Games infrastructure. However, what wasn’t clear from my (now) was an incident? In the event of an incident • Liaise appropriately with CSOC which boss’s passing comment was that ‘some what would take priority, the continuity of would retain responsibility for coordinating involvement’ would turn out to be about 95% the Games or the preservation of evidence any incident meeting National Cyber Security of my work over the next 12 months; and for investigative purposes? What about Incident Management Policy thresholds. what an interesting 12 months it has been. the media? How would we dovetail OCCT On taking up post at GCHQ in October operations with departmental business Cyber Situational Awareness Provision. 2011, I was quickly introduced to the concept as usual responsibilities and procedures? The OCCT was to maintain the Olympic of the Olympic Cyber Coordination Team How would we interface with industry and communities’ holistic cyber situational (known universally as the OCCT) which international agencies? How would we awareness picture through the provision of: was to form part of the Olympic Safety and keep the NOSC (and through him COBR) • Routine cyber situation reports that inform Security Domain and answer to the National informed? And so on, down a long list. the Olympic Intelligence Centre (OIC) and Olympic Security Coordinator (NOSC), ACC the NOCC reporting and briefing cycle. Chris Allison of the Metropolitan Police. First things first, then: what was the OCCT • Cyber awareness updates. Okay, sounds good so far; ‘So where are there for? In short, we were directed • Cyber incident reports on a case-by-case we with this?’ I asked on my arrival. ‘Oh, to generate and deliver a team with the basis that inform the OIC and NOCC, and

A Gold Winning Performance - The Olympic Closing Ceremony

I was fortunate enough to be selected to about saluting road cones (imaginary flag represent the trade and service as a member poles). We didn’t have the flags; Union, Greek, of the Flag Raising Team; which consisted Olympic and Brazilian, until the actual day of of 5 RAF personnel, 3 Royal Marines, 2 the ceremony. Royal Navy and 4 Army personnel. All On the day of the ceremony we arrived in of the team members had been picked for good time; 0830, the intention being to get their performances either in their service some practice on the actual set in order to hone or in associated activities, ranging from our timings for that polished performance. representation at international sports to This hope was dashed when we discovered military commendations for bravery. the set had not actually been built and would Due to lots of athletes running and jumping be constructed during the day. Not a drama about, we were discouraged from practising for Service personnel. When finally built we at the actual Olympic Stadium prior to the realised that our march route, which took event. Consequently all our training sessions us under the Olympic flame, resembled an were conducted at a large swimming pool in assault course; cables, stanchions, boxes and Dagneham. Admittedly it wasn’t intended to trunking covering gas lines, which all had to be be a swimming pool; however the weather traversed with the agility of a mountain goat. On 12 Aug 12, the nation witnessed the closure transpired against us and turned the stadium The hype of the day continued, until ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics. sized car park area into a massive lake. This ‘Showtime’, when, with military precision, we This prestigious event was supported by did give a slightly surreal slant when watching took to the field. It is difficult to express the Royalty, dignitaries, international artists and the ballerinas practising in wellies. In suitably honour and pride of attending such an event. yours truly. military fashion we roughed it and waded To raise the Union Flag, for our Royal family,

18 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS through the latter the COBR SitCen if arrangements. Plans were also in place for and the mitigation of potential insider threats required. 24/7 OCCT representation in the NOCC and to Games security. In almost every case this • Basic advice to organisations not represented OIC. The 4 RAFP personnel on the posted required close liaison and communications by a Computer Emergency Response Team strength of CSOC were heavily involved in with Government departments and LOCOG, (CERT) i.e. some sponsors. the OCCT. I undertook the duties of OCCT and with a number of agencies and police • Cyber input to official Olympic media shift leader; and Flt Lt Vanessa Schmidt and forces to enable real-world ‘effects’. structures for inclusion in press lines. Sgt Simon Lonsdale worked shifts back at Cheltenham in support of the London-based As I write this article I am now the sole With the Games only 8 months away personnel. Group Captain Gary Horscroft remaining occupant of the OCCT, having timescales were tight, particularly as our took turns, in conjunction with H/CSOC, spent the morning putting our London facility planning and progress were required to at being CSOC’s (and the OCCT’s) senior to bed after we formally ceased operations at meet the demanding schedule of OCCT representative in London throughout the the end of the Paralympic closing ceremony involvement in the extensive national security summer and for acting as the National Cyber last night; I am also able to reflect on the exercise programme that would test our Incident Co-ordinator when required. In success of our endeavours over the past year, preparedness and operational integration addition the MOD MACA contribution to the hard work of all involved and the close with other elements of the Olympic security the OCCT was made up entirely of RAF and effective working relationships that have structure. Significant additional pressure personnel and comprised Flt Lt Suzanne been forged between the organisations that was also generated by the considerable Adkins (Eng(CE)) who acted as one of the contributed to the operation of the OCCT. Ministerial and senior government interest in 4 OCCT representatives in the NOCC, with My final task is to remain on standby for the the cyber security preparations for the Games FS Mick Norwood (TG4) and RAFP Sgts London 2012 parade through central London which were to be the most technologically- Tim Maskell, Matt Ratcliffe and Wayne this afternoon before (all being well) I turn dependent ever. Stafford employed on the OCCT shifts. out the lights at 1600 hrs and head over the From the outset it was very clear that the Taken together this presence resulted in the river for an end-of-OCCT drink or 2 at a Met OCCT was not intended to be a CERT, which RAF providing one of the largest contingents Police watering hole. Although the Games is to say it was not going to be a ‘technical’ to the OCCT with 7 of these 9 personnel are now over the next few months will involve cyber team; rather it was there to consider being RAFP. extensive Lessons Identified processes and what impact events in cyberspace might After a succession of both external and an analysis of our performance to ensure a have on the ‘real world’ and to respond internal exercises the OCCT went live on lasting Olympic security legacy; however, accordingly. It was therefore important that 18 May 2012, at the commencement of the that will be for others to see through as I end the OCCT consisted not only of technical Olympic Torch Relay before switching to my tour with CSOC 2 days from now and advisors but also of personnel experienced 24/7 operations on 23 July. Over the next take up my new post as PSyA at HQ Air next in non-cyber security and policing operations 7 weeks of operations the OCCT handled Monday. What a summer though; goodbye and incident management. By April 2012, a wide variety of cyber and cyber-related London 2012, I for one will miss you. extensive SOPs had been produced and a incidents and occurrences and whilst 4-shift system devised to enable 24/7 OCCT details of the specifics must remain operations over the period of the Games, with vague in a publication of this nature each of the 4 shifts comprising personnel these included attacks by hacking groups from CSOC (who provided the shift leaders), and others against Games and Games- GovCERT UK, CPNI, the Metropolitan related infrastructure; the mitigation Police Central e-crime Unit (PCeU) and of threatened attacks; responding to MOD, the latter provided through MACA cyber-crime and cyber-enabled crime;

wandering the floors looking for a vantage stadium, this time to raise the Greek and point. This proved quite lucky as I happened in front of the watching world, whilst listening Brazilian flags, whilst the rest of the team upon a door marked VIP and; in good RAFP to the chorus of 80,000 voices singing our lowered and marched off with the Olympic style thought ‘That’s me’. On entering I national anthem, is an incredible experience. I Flag. Fortunately this was our last commitment found I was in the commentary box with Gary did not feel the weight of responsibility; I was and so we were stood down to go and view Lineker and Sue Barker, fitting company to completely enthralled by the moment and the the remains of event. For those of you who watch the show and fireworks with, the end sense of being part of a historic event. attended the stadium you will appreciate the to unforgettable day. Later that evening I again entered the scale of the structure; it’s huge, and I got lost by FS Max Tate

Provost Parade 19 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS RAF NORTHOLT SUPPORT TO OP OLYMPICS RAF Northolt played a key role between July encompassing the use of technical aids, such GPD and September this year to directly support as CCTV and Portable IDS and tactically the UK’s biggest spectacle of the decade, placed barb wire fencing enhanced this “For the duration of Op Olympics the GPD the London Olympics and Paralympics. effect further. section provided 24 hour policing and Deployed aircraft including Typhoons and 3. Defend. MPGS QRF provided 24/7 security support to RAF Northolt and its SeaKings stole the headlines, arriving at coverage to be able to respond to any enemy surrounding areas of responsibility. Each RAF Northolt to a flurry of national media attack. During hours of darkness this was shift maintained constant high visibility and divided public opinion towards their supplemented by an additional 3 MWD PAT roaming foot and mobile patrols of the camps role in supporting the Olympic airspace. handlers who protected the mission critical sprawling area of responsibility, covering Additionally, RAF Northolt welcomed assets. all of the SFA, the external fence line and hundreds of additional Military personnel internal base area. The main aim of these from all 3 Services employed on varying Op Detailed now are personal accounts from patrols was to detect and deter crime, and to OLYMPIC duties both on Station and across varying policing and security elements be on scene to deal with any security breaches the Capital. detailing their tasks and responsibilities over on the base as they occurred. Ensuring the success of this operation this busy period. In addition to keeping up a high tempo of required a large scale homeland security effort patrols to aid with the security of the base, involving existing Station Sy Forces and an PS the GPD section was also responsible for the additional 41 personnel from across the force, policing of the additional 500+ personnel both RAFP and MPGS. The coordination of “The PS section played a key role during temporarily posted to RAF Northolt this effort was led by 7 (RAFP) Sqn, who had Op RAMPART. Prior to the build up of supporting Op Olympics. The section was been meticulously planning since October 11 additional assets and personnel that were on hand to provide an immediate response to to bring a coordinated approach involving scheduled to arrive on the unit, the section any incidents that occurred and to carry out outside agencies including the Metropolitan was heavily involved with various aspects of any investigations that followed,whilst still Police Service (MPS) and MDP. After what the station preparations, including providing maintaining a vital patrol matrix. seemed like a hundred amendments to the advice for additional Phys Sy and Pers Sy It has been a busy time for the GPD RAF Northolt security plan, Op RAMPART measures. Sy education was high on the section but the hard work has paid off with was finally born and initiated on 1 July 12. priority list and regular OPSEC briefings Op Olympics concluding with unmitigated were provided for both RAF Northolt success and we are all now looking forward Op RAMPART was delivered personnel and deploying staff. to a well earned break.” A/Cpl Kerri Madle through 3 effects: During the course of Op RAMPART our normal daily PS role came with some MWD VS 1. Inform. The RAFP provided fused additional Op OLYMPIC related duties. The intelligence to RAF Northolt from different office became the focal point for information “On Sun 01 Jul 12, 5 Vehicle Search Dog feeds including MPS, AWC and the Defence and intelligence collection, and dissemination Handlers, 4 from RAF Brize Norton and 1 Olympic Intelligence Committee (DOIC). An for the station during this period. This from RAF Coningsby were welcomed to enhanced FP C2, including an RAFP Bronze involved close liaison with agencies such as RAF Northolt to supplement the additional Commander and Watchkeeper then ensured MPS and MDP in order to set up information Station dog handlers. The task in hand the Station Execs and Sy force were aware of sharing for the period, with the information was daunting; however the VS handlers current and changing threats. then being fed into the office from a variety remained focused and motivated to achieve 2. Deter & Detect. The RAFP and MPGS of internal and external agencies, processed the requirements. conducted 24/7 foot and mobile patrols both and collated. This information was then Over the 3 month period, over 6000 off and on the Station, as well as providing turned into a daily brief, ready for the Bronze vehicles were searched thoroughly, thus visibly stronger control of entry measures, Commander of the day to present to Stn ensuring a safe working environment for including VS capability at the units 2 main Execs, providing them with an up to date everyone at RAF Northolt. In addition, this entry points. Physical security enhancements picture of CT and crime intelligence related allowed safe passage for VVIP’s such as the to Op OLYMPIC taskings.” A/FS Richie Queen, Prince Charles and David Cameron Sargeant amongst others. All handlers can be extremely proud of the enduring training that their dogs have undergone. All dog teams performed magnificently throughout, gaining high praise from military and civilian personnel for their astute professionalism and their dedication to the cause.” A/Cpl Claire Livie

MWD PAT

“The London 2012 Olympic Games were fast approaching and so were the long stint of night shifts! All handlers were all prepared for the task as we had been awaiting it for a long time.

20 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS

RAF Northolt was going to become the and lodger units that had personnel employed security hub for the air assets over London on security duties. and the surrounding venues, it was our The FP Watchkeeper was provided with responsibility as PAT handlers to ensure a daily Olympic Intelligence Assessment that the air assets were secure throughout by the J2 cell, which mainly consisted the night, whilst the ac remained on high- of local information with regards to readiness. This involved 3 PAT handlers incidents and individuals of interest being on shift each night and doing what within the London area, and did we do best; patrolling! RAF Northolt’s dog not directly affect RAF Northolt, it section is a small section with normally 3 to provided an overall picture of what 4 personnel working as ‘shifties’ throughout was happening ‘outside of the wire’. the year, and with 2-4 away on detachments. Liaison between the Watchkeeper, MPS So for a small section to work so closely was and MDP was of paramount importance brilliant, although don’t get us wrong, it was for any situations that occurred, which hard work!” A/Cpl Pete Cowan appeared to work without too many hitches. Although a lot of the time has been FP Watchkeeper spent ‘sitting and waiting’, having the FP Watchkeeper in place has allowed the MPGS “On 1 Jul 12, 3 RAFP SNCOs commenced Guard Cdr to concentrate on running his an FP Watchkeepers’ role at RAF Northolt, shifts and having a single point of contact for Units! Down days were reduced by half to working a rotational shift pattern to provide outside agencies.” Sgt Sarah Lambert ensure the smooth running of operational 24/7 coverage, in conjunction with the 3 requirements, armed patrols were increased Bronze Cdrs. MPGS to a ‘Boots on the Ground’ status 24/7 and The FP Watchkeeper was embedded within an armed QRF was ready to move at all the Stn Ops Flight along with the Bronze Cdr “The Olympics have had a significant effect times. The increased platoon quickly gelled and was the focal point for co-ordinating and on MPGS Operations at RAF Northolt. To to form an effective team ready to negotiate tasking integrated security measures with ensure the security of some very high profile any hurdle. external security agencies, unit security staffs assets, the initial preparations caused an Thanks to hard work and excellent co- increase to workload including the fine tuning operation both from within and outside the of CCTV systems, adoption of Portable Platoon, the operation which spanned both Intruder Detection System (PIDS), reviews Olympics and Paralympics was a resounding of patrol routes callsigns and location nick success.” Sgt Chas Watkins and Pte Danny codes. Brooks Extensive additional training was All security personnel played a significant undertaken to revisit potential threat role throughout the operation and areas and ‘actions on’, and internal demonstrated high levels of commitment. The and external station exercises proved joined up mentality saw the MPGS, RAFP useful. The arrival of the QRA and MGS effectively working as one team and Typhoon aircraft from Coningsby ultimately ensured the team goal of protecting added an additional slant on all aircraft and maintaining the operational security requirements including running of the airfield throughout the entire additional patrolling requirements period. It was a tireless effort and all those and emergency procedures. involved should be proud of representing their The commencement of the branches in a positive manner. games brought with it a jump in the establishment of an additional 27 MPGS By Flt Lt Phil Davidge soldiers from 4 Wings and no less than 14

Provost Parade 21 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS RAF POLICE - STANDING OUT IN THE CROWD AT THE DIAMOND JUBILEE The Queens Diamond Jubilee was a chance We formed up on the Arena with the cheers departed from Windsor. Whilst on the way to to be part of an amazing historical occasion. from the RAF personnel in the stands still the coach we encountered several members With other members of the Armed Forces, 6 ringing in our ears. The speeches from Her of the public who had nothing but words of RAF Police were on the parade, rank ranged Majesty The Queen and CDS were well congratulations and one member of the public from Flt Lt to A/Cpl. received and very poignant I felt. We were asked for a photo of an RAF Policeman to We had two days of instruction at RAF deliberately kept at ‘stand easy’ for the fly which I could hardly refuse. Halton from the Ceremonial staff from RAF past so we could watch it – which I thought The rousing cheers and positive comments Northolt where we were formed into flights was indicative of the level of detail that had heard from the crowd, members of my family and then given the appropriate training that been applied to planning and organisation and friends who watched the event on TV, was required for the actual parade and muster. of the event. will remain with me always, as will the This was followed by a rehearsal at ATR Having marched off and then received our sense of pride that I had in taking part in this Pirbright on the Friday. We did three full congratulatory lunch of sausage and chips, we historic event. By FS Dom Sarrazin rehearsals during the day, where we practised marching through a mock up of Windsor Castle and then forming up on the muster parade. The London District GSM, WO Mott was heard to say – “This is Blooming marvellous – you can’t get this anywhere in the world” and he is correct! The Friday had been an early start – we had to be on the bus at Halton at 0545 and we didn’t get back until 2000. All sustained with a hearty packed ESS lunch. Saturday was an equally early start to get us to Windsor before the traffic – so we arrived in the Royal Park at 0830 where we were in the wings of the Mile until the form up time of 1000. We marched off at 1030 up the hill to the Castle – its steeper than it looks and then the rest of the 3 mile march to the Arena having given an eyes right to Her Majesty The Queen in the Castle.

that were seconded to RIAT 2012; as well as students from the Defence Animal Centre, Out With The Old, In With The New!! our civilian Police counterparts and many on base sections, who are all keen to visit us. In early May 2012, the RAF Police and classed as ‘green’. Our free-runs utilise the Nearly three months have passed since the their dogs took ownership of their new Dog underground drainage and storage of rain move, and despite a few teething problems Section here at RAF Brize Norton. Our new water, which through subsequent treatment encountered along the way, it can be said £3.2 million facility lay waiting to welcome sees it being recycled to be used to clean the that most, if not all of us who work here, are its two, and indeed four legged, occupants kennels on a daily basis. That coupled with immensely, and justifiably proud of our new into a state-of-the-art dog section, which the soon-to-be installed wind turbine that environment, and the facilities it provides. would soon bear witness to RAF Brize generates enough power not only for our Despite the change in location, many Norton becoming the biggest, newest and section, but to enable the RAF to sell power handlers remain familiar faces to RAF most impressive section within the RAF to the National Grid, certainly enhances our Brize Norton. As is to be expected at any (though I’m sure each section will argue green credentials! Dog Section, should any of you be passing this fact!) The section provides a vibrant and through, the kettle is always on for those The section now comprises forty nine engaging workplace for the handlers and wishing to see what we can offer, or maybe fully heated dog kennels, a purpose built Kennel Assistants alike, as well as a calming, even just to catch up with those of us lucky support building and enough ‘astro-turf’ comfortable new environment for our dogs. enough to be able to call this home. free-runs to enable us to easily host a mini The facilities have already received laudatory hockey tournament. As well as boasting plaudits, from RAF Police QPD, at all levels, Cpl Karl Hicks an impressive layout, the section is also and has played host to the handlers and dogs JNCO 2I/C RAF Brize Norton Dog Section

22 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS

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Provost Parade 23 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS BIOT Deigo Garcia

So where and what is Diego Garcia IRAQI FREEMOMWhere’s and HERRICK. There US Navy That….? CO to an American Investigator I hear you ask? is even a force of US Sea-lift Command as “ROPO 6 - Pretty much the Mayor of this merchant vessels, equipped, poised and ready place.” I decided to take this as a compliment. to support deployed Ops at a moments notice. As the SME on Search at the Airport, you Diego Garcia AKA “The Footprint of The islands are patrolled periodically by are always the first and last person people see Freedom” is the largest and only inhabited BF BIOT personnel (there are 41 of us here, when arriving on island. You are therefore the island/atoll in the chain of islands which RM Commandos, Royal Navy and of course friendly face of the BIOT Police and often the form the Chagos Archipelago or British 1x RAF - Me!). After completing a swim person people choose to go to for advice on Indian Ocean Territories (BIOT). These test, we each take turns to embark the BIOT matters relating to Law on the island. If you lie approximately 7 degrees south of the Patrol Ship Pacific Marlin for a week or so don’t enjoy talking to people, this is not a equator and 72 degrees east of Greenwich. to patrol the BIOT, AKA Brit-Ops. Many of Posting for you! Some of the work the dogs The Chagos Archipelago is considered to be the islands cannot be reached soley by boat do is conducted off-shore in support of the the largest and most isolated atoll complex and so it has to be on with the Fins, snorkels Fisheries Protection Mission. This involves on Earth. Its this isolation which ensures and off into the “Oggin” (Fish-Head speak for boarding a Royal Marine Pac-24 Rigid its strategic importance, much the same as Ocean) you go. This is a challenge in itself Inflatable Boat (RIB) Fast! and heading out Ascension Island. The island also provides a and I can personally confirm that Danger of the shelter of the Lagoon to the open ocean. vital communications link around the globe Island is aptly named. Along with the US Navy K9 handlers (AES), and is one of three sites worldwide which you then sweep the vessel for controlled provides Ground Based Electro-Optical Deep So what does the Drug Dog Handler drugs. As long as the sea state is good, this Space Surveillance (GEODSS). in DG do then? is the most fun you will have whilst at work. Diego Garcia & the other islands that comprise BIOT are located near the Well, first and foremost, you are the only Community geographical centre of the Indian Ocean British Police Dog Handler in Theatre. This and are separated from the nearest landmass means your hours are extremely variable I have had the privilege of being accepted by many hundreds of miles of Ocean. The dependent on incoming flights and Sea traffic. Island wide, both as a BIOT Officer and a area covers approximately 10,000 sq miles You search passengers, bags, mail and cargo Musician (I front the (DG) world famous of ocean and consists of 52 islands in total, arriving on island. You are also THE ONLY Seven Degrees South Band, which has been with names such as Peros Banhos, Saloman, triple-warrant carded person on island (BIOT going since the mid 1980’s.) It comprises Egmont Islands and of course the aptly named Police, Customs & Immigration & Service of me, an American/Filipino, Filipino’s and Danger island. Many of these islands have Police). This is a position which sees you at a Mauritian. It is loved by all on the Island barely been touched by man (Us aside). the fore-front of every major situation that and has its spiritual home in the legendary Tactically vital to this side of the globe, the island can throw at you. In my 22 months BRIT CLUB. Find it on Facebook: Brit Club the 35 mile v-shaped island, although here, I have had two operational finds, been Diego Garcia. This Club is run by off-duty British owned and administered (Police, involved with six fatalities (natural causes Brits (Not Policemen) and is the place to let Customs & Immigration, RM QRF and or accidents), illegal fishing offshore and your hair down at the weekend. If you want even Court!) houses the US Navy Support even a stricken yacht! This as well as the to experience different cultures, try new Facility (USNSF-DG). This is made up of usual various vehicle incidents, public order foods and stretch your horizons a little, then around approx 3500 military and civilian and alcohol related offences. You spend 12 get involved in the Island life. There is even personnel but has considerable flex to up it’s months here, so the guys doing 6 month stints a small K9 Grave-yard at Cannon Point, an population to support deployed Ops. This look to you for local knowledge. After 20 old UK Military Artillery post from WWII. has been proven throughout Op’s TELIC, months on island, I was introduced by the This is a place I keep clean and tidy and is shared by the three US K9 handlers whom work alongside me. Activities

There is always something to do when off duty, from Fishing, Snorkeling and various water sports, such as wind-surfing & kayaking. The US Military Welfare & recreation (MWR) program on island is really good too. There is an event every day, these range from longest drive on the Golf course, to Tennis, 5km runs, swimming and bike rides. Best of all, every participant gets a free T-Shirt. There are a number of Bands on island including Seven Degrees South and a Contract Band which play 5 nights a week at a few venues. There is an outdoor Pool and Cinema, Bowling alley, a fantastic Gym, various restaurants with regular theme nights (Mongolian, Build your own pizza and wings night to name but a few) and take- away. This means there is always something

24 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS to see and do. You can also take advantage of education courses either on Island or via distance learning. Pay & Allowances

Whilst on Island, you will receive LSA as you might expect. You can survive on this easily. You also get one free return trip to UK and one free return trip to Singapore (Space Available) you can then make your own way across Asia, Australasia, or even home if that’s what you want to do. I chose Japan as my place to go. Conclusion

I can honestly say that the diversity I have encountered here both in job spec and the different cultures employed here (US, UK, Filipino and Mauritian) have been an amazing experience - a genuine once in a life-time opportunity. It is an isolated job for sure, but with support from the Dog World; Andy Ellis, Si John & Damo Heartford, Kenny Braddick, Arthur Sergeant, Phil Brown & Pinky Penman and SO3 MWD; Flt Lt Mo Pearce – Thanks Guys- I have been able to conduct the Mission here successfully, enhance the Royal Navy, Marines & Foreign & Commonwealth Office’ understanding of Dog Operations and needs, whilst evolving the job (including the kitting and uniform). It has been an absolute privilege and honour to have been able to represent the RAF and the Trade in this way. I would not change it for the world. At this point, I would like to congratulate my successor Cpl Lisa Keetley on her assignment to DG (only the 6th RAF handler to deploy here and first female handler!) and wish her all the best for her Tour. Your new Police Dog vehicle will be a new marked Land-Rover Free-Lander, due for delivery in 2013. Enjoy!!! Interested?

So if you are a driven and motivated dog handler, looking to go DD, or currently qualified, I would urge you to consider Diego Garcia as a potential posting. Not only will you enjoy the job immensely, but as a Substantive Cpl you can prove your abilities in operating autonomously and out of trade. You will learn a lot about yourself in the process and get a chance to experience life as a Civilian Police & Customs Officer. You will work alongside every branch of the Service Police (RNP, Royal Marines Police & RMP) and learn how to adapt very quickly. All you need qualifications wise, are DD, KM, DG Dog Enhanced First Aid, Custody including First Aid at Work, VCIC and Blue Light Driver. So what are you waiting for? Get your application in! If you want any more info, contact the PMDIs at RAF Henlow, or myself at Benson Dog Section. I will be more than happy to answer any question you might have.

Provost Parade 25 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS RAF LEUCHARS Alive & Kicking

Nestled precariously on the edge of an shopkeeper! One minute meeting with Fife eroding Fife coastline, overlooking the Eden Police Chief Inspectors, the next lurking in Estuary and St Andrews Golf course lies a the Dog Section bushes looking for trees to small but enormously busy RAF Leuchars. chop down. It would appear that I have been With its nearest RAF neighbour being three appointed the Flt’s procurement guru and hours away, Leuchars is remote in Service I stand ready for a request to LVP a rigid terms and as such has to be independent and raider for beach landings and boat drills in resilient. the estuary! Tucked away within the walls of the MGR FS Shaun Taylor is the Sheriff and it falls to is the RAF Police Flt, home to the OC & him to put the round peg in the square hole. Sheriff, GPD and PS offices as well as our Doing more juggling than the Russian State resident platoon of MPGS colleagues. The Circus, he has somehow managed to get the Dog Section is perched close to the beach right guys to the plethora tasks that have on the far side of the airfield. Under the fallen upon us. umbrella of No 4 RAFP Sqn, all of these The SNCO sitting in divine omnipotence elements combine to ensure that the Station in the PS office is Sgt Zoe Hughes-Hubbold, is effectively policed and secured. described as a ‘Battleaxe’ by her peers she is The role of RAF Leuchars in a nutshell is to all sweetness and light until ruffled. Once support QRA and the Typhoon Sqns (No1 & riled Zoe transforms and unleashes the power No6) which stand sentinel over the Northern of Medusa with a stone chilling glare and will skies fending off airborne intruders probing go at something like a terrier until resolved. our airspace. These include incursions by 2012 has seen the RAF Leuchars embrace foreign military aircraft and aircraft not the Olympic spirit when the Olympic responding to controllers. All that the RAFP Flame was carried through Fife. The torch Flt does, directly or indirectly, contributes bearer’s handover ceremony took place at to this vital effort. With the future basing the main gate and was honoured by a four- decision made, the Station now has to posture ship Typhoon flypast and parade with a in order for transition to Army control; healthy dose of highland cat strangling from however, far from winding down, the Station the bagpipes. Of course, the RAF Police is ramping up as we have recently stood up manned the ramparts and were in evidence the second Typhoon Sqn (No 1 Sqn), in the along the route with Fife counterparts. Also, process of forming an EAW with the other throughout the summer in support of the Op Scottish unit (soon to be the only Scottish OLYMPIC effort, we despatched a team of unit), play host to a variety of exercises such MPGS and Cpl Nichols from the Dog Section as Joint Warrior, deploy aircraft overseas who joined the security teams and JSPU and organise the largest Airshow North of respectively. Waddington. Given our proximity to Edinburgh, it In an extremely busy Jubilee and Olympic was to be expected that we be tasked with year our resources and tenacity have been involvement with the Tattoo and Cpls Wootten tested to the fullest extent. Notwithstanding & Scott were deployed to the event working our role on home shores, we have deployed with Joint RAFP & RMP team to police the RAF Police to a variety of roles within the Op Servicemen and to assist the security process. HERRICK theatre and other OOA locations, On Station, the RAFP Flt has been fully carrying out duties such as profiling, Force engaged in local events, hosting visits from Protection, MWD duties both PAT and BEEK Air Training Corp cadets, Duke of Edinburgh to name but a few. RAF Police have been Award schemes, RAFA and work experience. involved in a raft of other operations within A Police stand was present at the Officers’ our own borders, which have all conspired to Mess Annual Reception for local VIPs and put our endurance and sense of humour on again at the Station ‘Wellbeing Day’ which trial. In fact most of the Flt have been multi- coincided with a visit from AMP. These tasking so often that they have had more jobs events served to highlight the extensive role than Frank Spencer! and the service we bring to the Station and Overseeing this huge effort is our ubiquitous promoted the Community Policing aspect. OC, Flt Lt Dougie Bright, a former Royal Everybody loved our Police Dog who slept Marine WO, he has brought to the Flt a through the reception and Cpl Woodcock sprinkling of nautical terms but alas not learned that if you leave the Blue lights on yet the tot of rum. Involving himself in for 2 hours with the engine off, it won’t start! everything, he has developed a habit of The Station has been visited by a variety popping up more often than Mr Benns’ of VIPs and dignitaries from Olympic Gold

26 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS

Medallist Sir Chris Hoy to the King of Grant to Cyprus to help with ATSy on the deployments etc including MPGS and the Bahrain in his private Boeing 747. All of HERRICK RiPs. Dog Section who strive 24/7 to secure the these visits involved RAF Police, providing By far our largest project each year is the Station. The Dog Section are planning on escorts, liaisons with Close Protection Airshow which attracts thousands of the incorporating some aircraft recognition into officers or completing the SREs to ensure a public to the event. With 3 off base park & Dog Section CT in the near future as Cpl safe and successful passage. By far the most ride car parks, on base parking and trains Hayley Wootten wrote in the DOB that 3 famous visitor to grace us with their presence bringing up to 12 000 passengers it is huge Spitfires were visiting overnight; BBMF you however, was Sgt Dudley Brightley (RAF undertaking to safely marshal everyone on may think? No they were Tucano’s! And Marham) who in just two days managed in his and off the Station. The planning begins Cpl Ben Finney who on handover, passed own inimitable style to become better known the day after the last Airshow and is a on that there were German guards with their than Lady Gaga. With his spaniel, Basil he mammoth undertaking with round after round Tornado’s which were in fact Frenchmen became more popular than a singing kid or of planning meetings, liaisons with other guarding 2 Rafales! dancing dog on Britain’s Got Talent with Police agencies and traffic management. Forget not our civilian team, as Jenny, his razor sharp wit and the fact that his dog, All hands were to the pumps. Of course Marie-Ann and Mo deal with the vetting and shall we say, likes to go to the toilet in other we gratefully received the assistance of passes and permits. Poor Jenny attends our people’s offices! Search Dog handlers, Patrol dogs, GPD, weekly meetings and acts as scribe taking ATSy is possibly not a role that would MPGS from 4 RAFP Sqn and around the the minutes trying desperately to appear immediately spring to mind when pondering RAF and also 58 Sqn RAF Regiment and interested. Thank you ladies for all that you on RAF Leuchars’ Police Flt. Conversely, soldiers from 1 Scots, without whom none do. Let us remember our guys deployed on Leuchars ‘coppers’ are involved in ATSy on of this would be possible. All of the vehicles operations and say hi to all of them – stay a regular basis. We do not yet rival Brize and public required searching to ensure safe and keep smiling. Also a thought must Norton but we handle a lot of flights and security and throughout the day RAFP, Fife be spared for the families of everyone on PAX, so often in fact that the majority of & Tayside Police and MPGS patrolled the the Flt. They are the ones who keep things the GPD and PS have been NASP qualified event responding to enquiries or incidents. together at home as we flit around the globe by HMRC at Dundee Airport. Having St Midnight oil was burned, weekends vanished or sit waiting patiently when we are late home Andrews Golf course as a neighbour ensures in a blur but the Airshow was a success and again. Thank you to all of them. It has been a steady stream of private jets carrying golfers all involved justifiably received a huge pat a busy year and the pace is not expected to and celebrity golf fans. The Dunhill Cup on the back. relent. held in October every year presents one of In between times the more normal duties by Cpl Bobby Parker our biggest challenges where Leuchars lands prevail as each department performs despite anywhere up to 60 of these flying hotel / the strain of manpower shortages and limousines’. The airfield becomes awash with fancy Gulfstream’s, Lear jets and Global Express aircraft all with passengers to process and of course the aircraft require looking after. This has prompted the establishment of a new passenger processing facility with a rapi-scan and archway providing a secure and comfortable place to screen the PAX and baggage, ok it’s small but size isn’t everything! This has been a herculean effort to get this project up and running and has been driven by Sgt Hughes-Hubbold who has had beg, borrow, harass and cajole to complete this in time for the Dunhill but it has been done. Bravo. In addition to ATSy conducted within our own airfield, Leuchars RAF Police are often called upon to process Infantry soldiers flying out of Edinburgh or flights from Prestwick and occasionally from USA or Belize. These flights known as MCCPs take the troops on military or civilian flights to Op HERRICK or exercises in locations like Kenya. These are labour intensive tasks and we process up to 200+ PAX by hand usually on the gym floor. The PAX and baggage then needs to be secured and escorted to the airport and over-watched until the wheels leave the ground. We have also deployed Cpl Robbie

Provost Parade 27 HOMELAND & OVERSEAS HOMELAND & OVERSEAS

2 PW BRIEFING DAY RAF CRANWELL - 16 MAY 2012

THE RAFP PERSPECTIVE Police on Ops. see the level of integration between RAFP After Lunch we returned to Whittle Hall and MPGS personnel at all rank levels as The briefing day began with breakfast in for the final briefing of the day delivered everyone talked late in to the night. This was our respective messes before being ferried by the Royal and Diplomatic Intelligence a thoroughly enjoyable and informative day by coach to Whittle Hall, the venue for the Unit, this highly interesting and informative that certainly highlighted the way in which morning’s briefings. The briefings began briefing explained the day to day life of the RAFP and MPGS have come together to with the Admin Brief laying out the days a Royal Protection Officer and some of provide security for the RAF. events, delivered by Flt Lt Dean Davies the the characters they come across whilst In addition to the article from the 2PW Project Officer for the day followed by a protecting the Royal Family and Foreign Briefing Day and having just closed down State of the Nation address by OC 2PW, Wg Diplomats. This was followed by a short talk the fund after settling all bills etc 2 charitable Cdr Brian Ripley, which included a minutes on Mess Etiquette for the JNCOs who had donations are being made from the monies silence in memory of Cpl Brent McCarthy never attended a Dining-in Night. With the raised during the event: from RAF Brize Norton who had sadly lost serious part of the day now done we moved his life in Afghanistan. Following the Wg on to either take part in the potted sports £350 to the RAFP Welfare Fund Cdr’s address a forensics brief was given by organised by Cpl Kelley or the “Try Dive” £150.87 to MacMillan Cancer the Covert & Scientific Support Flight, RAF organised by SSgt Zebs Ebdy, Platoon Cdr Henlow, a very informative briefing detailing MPGS RAF Honington. Cpl Nicky Elliott the best ways to protect forensic evidence at After an afternoon of either running around a crime scene. After a short break we were getting sweaty or getting a fishes eye view THE MPGS PERSPECTIVE given an excellent brief by Dr Lee from of Cranwell’s swimming pool, everyone Kings College on his take on the second Gulf retired to their respective accommodation On 16 May, 2PW held their annual briefing war and Tony Blair’s involvement, this was to shower and change for the Dinner in the day. The purpose of the day is to get all units very well received and generated a healthy Candidates’ Mess. who fall under 2PW – from St Mawgan to Lossiemouth – together and deliver various discussion from the audience. Before Pre-Dinner drinks a 2PW briefs to inform them of the work being done At this point we adjourned to the Sgt’s Mess photograph was taken outside the Mess, by RAFP/MPGS and what is in the pipeline. where a buffet lunch had been laid on for us. this took a little longer than anticipated due Numerous personnel travelled to RAFC Here we were able to catch up with those to the late arrival of certain personnel who Cranwell on the 15 May and there were who arrived on the day from other units shall remain nameless (career protection lots of remarks of ‘I haven’t seen you for over a cup of coffee and a delicious canapé mode well and truly switched on at this ages’ over a few drinks. At 0800hrs on 16 or two. It was a great chance to talk about point) although I believe several bottles of May, the day started with a ‘State of the Policing on other Units and roles of RAF port were purchased after dinner!! Nation’ by Wg Cdr Ripley. Of particular The seating plan for the dinner note was the moving tribute paid to A/Cpl ensured a good mix of personnel McCarthy who was tragically killed in action from all units and made for some in Afghanistan, followed by a minute silence interesting conversation between to mark the occasion. courses. The earlier brief on Mess Throughout the morning, various briefs Etiquette obviously paid off as were delivered starting with CSE. Cpl none of the juniors were fined for Bennion stated that as the focal point for all breaking protocol, although some crime scenes, not enough phone calls for name tags did find their way to advice/guidance were being received by the the top table with notes written Crime Lab. Every crime has an element of on the back, these were read out forensic value therefore a request was made at the end of the meal causing a for all personnel to engage with the crime few red faces! lab in the event of any scene at their unit, no At the end of the dinner everyone matter how small!! Cranwell Try-Dive retired to the bar to enjoy the rest Dr Lee from Kings College delivered of the evening. It was good to a presentation on Tony Blair and the

28 Provost Parade HOMELAND & OVERSEAS

implications of the Iraq war. He engaged with the audience and encouraged personnel to challenge his views – coupled with a few anecdotes about being offered ‘services’ from the older ladies – made for a very interesting and engaging presentation. DC Starr from the Royal Protection team gave an insight into his daily life and brought home the fact that there are some very ‘individual’ people around who will stop at nothing to achieve their aim. With the interaction the Royal Family have with HM Forces, particularly Prince William and Harry, the units they frequent have to be made aware of any threats in order to counteract them and this presentation served to enhance our understanding of the threat posed. The briefs ended with either potted sports (ably introduced by Cpl Kelley – E & D Trg required) or a try dive. Teams were decided by Flt Lt Davies which were a mix of RAFP/ MPGS and the guest speakers. Sports consisted of hockey, volleyball and softball and no gloating was done once the winners I am a Person-Centred Counsellor and a Canine were announced!!! The try dive consisted Behaviourist of starting off with a snorkel, performing I provide counselling via telephone, email, skype and, dives at various depths, then moving onto of course, face to face. I also provide online workshops the regulator and once personnel got to grips which can give you the opportunity to enhance and develop self-awareness. with the air flow system, diving took place. The day concluded with a formal dinner My aim is to provide a professional, therapeutic, safe and confi dential service, where the client has the opportunitytitt to which started with pre dinner drinks before explore and focus on issues within a non-judgemental relationship. Over the all personnel were called forward for a group past 11 years I have worked with people from all walks of life regardless of age, photograph. This was delayed somewhat gender, religion, race, sexual orientation, nationality and culture. due to a MT issue but eventually we were Supporting soldiers with PTSD, and their families is top of my list. ushered back inside to be greeted by mess Dogs with PTSD follow as a close second. staff with more complimentary drinks. We I do appreciate that you may feel some reluctance to make the fi rst move, by were called forward into the dining room and contacting me, and this is often the hardest part, but if you feel that I may be of WO McGuire invited Mr Vice, Fg Off Walker, any help, do pick up the phone or email me … and we can take it from there. to say grace before being seated. Overall, The fi rst ½ hour meeting is free. it was a tremendous evening which helped Please check out my website for further details.. further strengthen the esprit de corp of 2PW. L/Cpl Alun Hudson http://withsilviakucinski.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] tel. 01475 568620 mob. 079393 72110

Provost Parade 29 SUPPORT & TRAINING Academic and Service Partnership Benefits Tri-service Personnel

As many members of the RAF Police will of the Teesside University Virtual Learning branch mentioned earlier. be aware, the Defence College of Policing Environment (VLE). Some of you may be Both these awards are open for enrolment and Guarding at Southwick Park has been already familiar with this or other equivalent via the Teesside University website – visit working closely with Teesside University in VLE. This is an ever increasingly popular www.tees.ac.uk/crime. They and will lead a partnership that became effective in early mode of study by many part-time students to a Certificate of Higher Education, in 2008, shortly after the DCPG was established engaged in higher education. Accordingly, Investigative Skills or Protective Security, and training from Phase Two onwards, location and geography of the individual, depending on the route taken. became tri-service. potentially a barrier with service police Having successfully completed the further The initial plan was to accredit the students, do not impinge as the academic 30 credit module and accrued the 120 Phase Three Investigation courses, which and learning materials are always accessible, credits at Level 4, you can progress to many RAF Police members will have remotely. It’s a case of your time and courses at Level 5 and beyond, depending attended during this interim period. The your place. entry requirements. partnership has flourished and there are a On successful completion of this further number of developments linked to academic module - the Serious Crime in Practice - the Since the partnership was established other opportunities, which personnel may wish to student will have accrued 120 credits at Level optional short courses, both online and take advantage of. With the dual specialist 4, the requisite amount of credits needed delivered via the VLE have been made function of both crime investigation and for the award of a Certificate of Higher available to RAF Police personnel, these protective security within the branch, the Education (Investigative Skills). At the time include: RAF Police are better placed than the other of registration, any prospective students two services to do so. will need to register for both the Certificate • University Certificate in Professional However, the over-riding ethic that applies of Higher Education and the further Development: Introduction to Intelligence to all service police personnel in these optional module. and its Operational Uses (30 credits at initiatives is the opportunity for continuing Level 4) professional development and this reflects That summarises developments on the crime on-going developments in the wider police side, for now. • University Certificate in Advanced family. While being aware of developments Professional Development: Introduction elsewhere, the primary motivation from For those personnel deployed on protective to Concepts of Terrorism and Counter Teesside and the DCPG is to provide credible security duties, similar arrangements have Terrorism (60 Credits at Level 5) external recognition of the accredited courses been put into place which recognises the and offer opportunities for further academic professionalism required to undertake Serving RAF Police personnel are on the progression and career development and this this role, particularly poignant given current cohort of the Concepts of Terrorism article details what they are. challenges faced in this contemporary and and Counter Terrorism course, which Personnel will be aware that our accredited uncertain world. comprises two sequential 16-week modules. courses on the crime investigation side The Protective Security course currently The programme is only available to law at the DCPG, include the Volume Crime delivered at the DCPG was accredited by enforcement personnel; it is not available to Investigators Course (VCIC), previously Teesside University in 2011, shortly after the general public. The course content has the L2 Investigators Course; and the the initial pilot course was evaluated by been written with the role of police personnel, Serious Crime Investigators Course (SCIC), the Security Flight based at the DCPG. either civil or military, very much in mind. previously the L3 Investigators Course. Consequently, some personnel will be aware Both myself and my colleague who present These courses or modules as we call them, of these proposed arrangements, but it is this programme, researched and formulated attract University credits on successful worth promulgating to the wider RAF Police the course, and are retired Inspectors completion; 30 and 60 credits at Level Four 4. and may assist with future career choices. with recent publications in the area of This means that, provided the registration Again, the Protective Security course is terrorism studies. with Teesside was taken out at the time, accredited at 60 credits at Level 4 and in that Terrorism or political violence is a fast- personnel that have successfully completed sense mirrors the SCIC. Personnel will have moving area and it is anticipated that further both the VCIC and the SCIC have accrued previously completed the VCIC or equivalent, amendments aimed at improving the course 90 credits at Level 4. This level equates to prior to enrolment on this course and like overall, will be implemented in time for Year One of an undergraduate programme their colleagues on the Special Investigation September 2012 intake. This is an ideal and the levels mentioned refer to the QCF, side will have accrued 90 credits at Level programme, again delivered totally online, for the Qualifications and Credit Framework. (As 4, providing both DCPG courses have been anyone seeking professional development in a rule of thumb, Level 3 broadly equates to successfully completed and registration was a specific area. While previous study at Level ‘A’ Level standard and equivalent vocational completed at the time of attending the DCPG. 4 or equivalent is required prior to admission, qualifications). The intention now is to introduce a further all interested parties are encouraged to Having consulted with personnel at the optional Protective Security in Practice contact Teesside as individual applications DCPG and mindful of opportunities for module delivered in the exact same mode via will be considered on merit. It is also hoped continuing professional development, it is work-based learning and attracting 30 credits. to raise awareness of this career and academic now intended to offer a further optional 30 This leads to the accumulation of 120 credits opportunity via the RAF Police intranet. credit module. This will lead to a recognised at Level 4 and the award of a Certificate of Just before closing, it is prudent to return higher education academic award, to be Higher Education (Protective Security). This to further potential developments in the area completed in the workplace, via work-based of course, is only available to the RAF Police of crime investigation. learning and supported by online delivery and reflects the specialist roles within the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) has

30 Provost Parade SUPPORT & TRAINING been accredited by Teesside at the DCPG those that have successfully completed the If further information is required please see since the partnership began back in 2008. CSI course delivered at the DCPG. the Teesside website – www.tees.ac.uk/crime, However, the quality of the CSI courses has These are exciting times with career and or contact me at [email protected] or via now been externally recognised and several academic opportunities for many within the the Joint Training and Development Team at civilian police forces are now sending their RAF Police. Even if you completed these the DCPG where I am based on a part-time staff to the DCPG to be trained as a CSI. The courses or others prior to accreditation arrangement. current accreditation is 40 credits at Level and are interested in further study, you 5. Discussions are on-going with a view to are encouraged to contact us. Teesside Peter Williams introducing a work-based module, similar University is a student-centered institution Senior Lecturer in Policing, to the Serious Crime or Protective Security and it may be possible to recognise previous School of Social Sciences & Law, routes, aimed at professional development for completed study. Teesside University Special Reconnaissance Regiment

Looking for unique, sensitive and rewarding employment?

For further details read 2012 DIN 07 - 078 or call the recruiting team on: Military: 94475 3017 Civilian: 0845 6006697

Provost Parade 31 SUPPORT & TRAINING

The RAF Force Protection Centre, RAF Honington

So what is the purpose of the RAF FP Centre? been exposed to the work of the Lessons we are constantly looking for ways to work and Concepts Cell through the de-briefs they with HQ RAF Police on projects and issues Before you jump to any pre-conceived ideas, conduct as 2 TPS returns from operations. of mutual interest. let me tell you what is isn’t - it is not there This feeds one of their roles - which is to to serve and support the RAF Regiment to process and manage operational lessons So, finishing as I started, the exclusion of others. The centre’s role is on behalf of the FP Force. As well as this, very clear - it exists to provide FP advice, they also collate, write and co-ordinate the What is the purpose of the RAF FP Centre…. expertise and training to the entire RAF production of doctrine, operational and it is to support you in the conduct of your community. Whilst, granted, the majority of tactical notes for the FP Force, in conjunction duties, either as an individual or on a the manpower comes from the Regiment, the with AIR Command and stakeholders such as collective basis. centre also employs a number of other trades, PSyA, the FP Force HQ and HQ RAF Police. By Sqn Ldr Russ Foster-Jones such as fire, and of course, the RAF Police. As already mentioned, an RAF Police Flt Lt The centre’s outlook, at all times, is on the is embedded in the LCC to ensure there is AIR need and where integrated and joined up SME input and that the ‘so what’ from an AIR FP can contribute to that requirement. RAF Police perspective is always taken into There are currently 4 RAF Police in the account. building - myself as the XO, a Flt Lt in the The 3rd major formation within the Lessons and Concepts Cell (LCC), a Sgt and FP Centre is OPTASS. OPTASS are Cpl within Training Squadron. We would responsible for the management and very much like to have a greater level of execution of collective training, for representation and are working hard with the RAF FP Force - those who have HQ RAF Police to identify opportunities to deployed with 2 TPS would have boost our numbers. come across OPTASS during such Broadly, the FP Centre is arranged under 3 training as CTW, MRX etc. OPTASS different formations. The most visible of these link in closely with the TPW Trg is Training Squadron as they run the IPDT Team throughout this training and courses - some 800 personnel come through there remains an ambition to embed the doors on a Cat 2 Course each year, with RAF Police into OPTASS, in order to another 150 (the majority of which are RAF ensure greater external-SME scrutiny Police) coming back for a Cat 2+ Course. of 2 TPS Force Generation. The RAF Police NCOs play a crucial role In sum, the FP Centre has a broad here - they are expected to be fully involved in and busy remit that transcends a the conduct of a course alongside their RAF number of areas of RAF Police Regiment colleagues (which includes gaining activity. By its nature, it is a unit that appropriate Range Qualifications), and will is constantly adapting - the withdrawal also take responsibility for the delivery of of forces from Afghanistan in 2014 certain specialist topics, such as evidence being one such area where the FP handling and forensic awareness. Centre is looking at ‘what happens The second formation is the Lessons and next’. As a resource, it is there to Concepts Cell. Many of you would have support the whole of the FP Force and A RAFP demonstrates her 32 Provost Parade metal during bayonet fighting. SUPPORT & TRAINING 22 TacticalTactical PolicePolice SqnSqn -- MRXMRX

No 2 (Tactical) Police Squadron (Op HERRICK 17), undertook their final training exercise at Stanford Training Area in Norfolk. The exercise saw their skills and drills rigorously tested to ensure a full understanding of all aspects of training had been achieved prior to their deployment to Camp Bastion in Oct 12. The week-long Mission Rehearsal Exercise was the culmination of 6 months of training in which all aspects of Force Protection were assessed.

“Working alongside interpreters, who speak both Pashtu and Dhari, is a great addition to our language training that we undergo during our diverse training. This really assists us, as we will be dealing direct with locals at the MEP and on operational Patrols.”

“First aid exercises are imperative, this is as real as it gets. We get it right here, we get it right in Helmand.”

“2 TPS have demonstrated a high level of capability in all aspects of FP operations and I personally have every confidence in their procedures for the task ahead”. The exercise was a great success, solidifying the training that they have received over the last 6 months.”

Provost Parade 33 SUPPORT & TRAINING your SJARs, could join us at a higher rank. This will also negate the need to complete the RAF Police Reserves: basic recruit training course at RAF Halton and Phase 2 training. Furthermore, lets talk Recruiting ex-RAFP as Direct Entrants money - by becoming a part time volunteer reserve, your redundancy money will not be Hi, I’m Cpl Jen Smith, nee Spink, and I month. Our members are really keen to affected. A travel allowance of up to 50 miles recruit Reserves for the RAF Police at 3TPS, get involved in everything going. Last year will be paid each working weekend, and for RAF Henlow. What I have to say might not we assisted with the London Marathon each day you attend you will be paid for your be of interest to you now, but could be in and this year we undertook the Pathfinders time. A corporal’s daily rate of pay currently the future. March. Fitness plays a large part of training starts from £66, with a Sergeant starting from When I was asked to take on this post I weekends, with time dedicated to team sports £75 per day. On top of this, an annual tax free wasn’t at all sure: I knew very little about and gym sessions. At the end of the day most bounty, starting at £424, increasing to £1674 the RAF Police Reserves and nothing about of what we do is aimed at mobilisation. after 5 years, can be claimed. recruiting! However, 7 months on and I am Depending what Reserve Forces Act the guys For those of you who have managed to loving my job. Before taking on this role my are mobilised under, they can join the regular read to the bottom of the article, I thank you. idea of a Reserve was taken directly from RAF Police for either a 9 or 12 month period. I hope I have shown that this is not a Sqn full the TV series Dads Army. I imagined they During this time they will either train and of old duffers an inch away from death, but a would all be too old to function properly, deploy to Afghanistan or train and remain vibrant, up and coming Sqn full of go-getters. with predated ideas of “how things were in the UK for UK back fill. Both roles have All I ask is that you keep it in the back of done in our day” and waist lines the size their positives and negatives. Afghanistan your mind and when the time is passing in of small planets. It was therefore a shock speaks for itself with 6 months in the UK civi street and you can’t remember why you to find that the average age of the Sqn is and 6 months deployed. UK back fill can were so happy about leaving the service, we 39 and that the RAF Police Reserves from encompass a plethora of activities from ATSy will be here. 3TPS have been mobilised against every trips to Nairobi, Canada and Iceland, to the I am currently recruiting for direct entrants Regular RAF Police role with the exception evacuation of British citizens from sudden at substantive Cpl, Sgt and FS for 3TPS of Close Protection and Biometrics. So hot spots within the world, from sitting at and the full rank structure from A/Cpl to that’s Weapons Intelligence Specialists, RAF Brize Norton for hours on end as the FS for No 603 (City of Edinburgh) Sqn….. Afghan Police Mentoring, Bastion Sy Flight, plane is delayed yet again! Depending on the give me a call on 95381 7419 or email me VHR Flt and ATSy.. We have a diverse intensity of the work load, personnel on UK at RAFP-3PW3Sqn Admin JNCO (Spink, range of personnel from Accountants, Chief back fill can spend as much time out of the Jennifer Cpl). Inspectors, Royal Protection Squad, Civil country over the 12 month period as those by Cpl Jen Smith Servants, IT Consultants….the variety is on deployment. expansive. I guess your wondering now where I am I am a national recruiter and have members going with this. Well, I am trying to recruit who travel from as far a field as Devon you: I know most people when leaving the and Dundee. Because of this we meet one service are relieved to be getting out and not weekend a month: it would not be fair to ask in the least bit interested in joining back up . our members to take 2 days off work to train . . for the first few years any way. In my naive for 3 hours on a week day evening. This does youth I served 5 years with the Navy. The first not mean we skimp on the training though. year of civi street you couldn’t have gotten me Due to the distances travelled we pack our back in for all the ‘tea in China’. The second training weekends as full as possible to make year I would have bitten your arm off, hence the time spent travelling fully worthwhile, why I am here now. I realise the longer you’re and we train Ph 1, Ph 2 and CT. Our task is to in, the longer it will take to forget all the bad support the regualr RAF Police, specifically bits (!) and the less likely you will want to join 1 and 2 TPS, therefore our training weekends back up again… but when you realise that you reflect this. One weekend we might refresh miss the team work, the banter, the people… convoy drills, the next core policing, the next the RAF Police Reserves can take you back we might be on the main gate in Afghanistan up to the day of your 56th birthday. If you encountering the situations the guys out there join us within 2 years of leaving the regulars have had to deal with during the previous you will keep your rank, and depending on

34 Provost Parade HONOURS & AWARDS RAF Police Promotions - 2012

SAC/A/CPL - CPL J8436660 CROOK JARIC TPS NO NAME UNIT FROM UNIT TO E8420860 DAVIDSON LOSSIEMOUTH HIGH WYCOMBE K8517642 BERRY CONINGSBY JARIC - SYFLT K8403557 DAVIS SIB - HALTON CJPU H8447726 BOTFIELD DCPG TPS Q8440943 DONALDSON CORSHAM ISFSI 30005963 BUCKLEY BZN BENSON Q8245352 ELLIOTT LEEMING CJPU 30004244 BURTON BENSON HENLOW L8430335 FIELDSEND ISFSI TPS 30000404 BUTLER GJPU ST MAWGAN J8432182 GEORGE JSYCC HQ RAFP J8446676 CAMM CONINGSBY SCAMPTON C2647374 GILL MARHAM DCPG S8517200 CHAMBERS COSFORD HENLOW K8440580 GRAY TPS TPS 30005703 COLLINS WADDINGTON WITTERING C8422700 HAMILTON DCPG DFCIT R8517057 CORLETT CRANWELL DAC H8439086 HARRIES CI SQN TPS 30008629 CRAWSHAW TPS PSLO L8423452 HAYWARD SCAMPTON CORSHAM 25204340 DANDY HQ RAFP RAFP - HQ B8441312 HEYDE CJSU CORSHAM 30005430 DORN NORTHOLT HIGH WYCOMBE F8445551 HITCHEN COT DCPG 30014361 DOWNALL WADDINGTON HANNOVER - ATSY F8438617 HOARE SIB - HONINGTON SIIB - HONINGTON 30002726 FAIRBROTHER COSFORD CORSHAM J8424197 KELLEY WADDINGTON SIIB L8433056 FENWICK BOULMER BOULMER S8307972 LACEY HALTON LOSSIEMOUTH 30000429 FISHER DCPG BZN S8414233 MCDONALD CRANWELL NORTHOLT G8500954 FRENCH RAMSTEIN SIIB - HALTON D8425260 METCALFE ISFSI ISFSI Q8444391 FROGGATT COSFORD HIGH WYCOMBE J8309252 MURPHY ST MAWGAN MARHAM 30004328 GITTINGS LYNEHAM NORTHOLT A8416464 MURRAY HENLOW DCPG F8442830 GLASSCOE DAC NORTHOLT C8309381 NASH WADDINGTON SIIB C8517209 GRANT LEUCHARS LEUCHARS P8436979 NEWHAM FYLINGDALES FYLINGDALES J8517212 HALL TPS WADDINGTON T8432218 NICOL CJSU CYPRUS P8507417 HAMILTON LOSSIEMOUTH LEUCHARS F8422541 PAGE RAMSTEIN WADDINGTON K8501667 HARTLEY RAMSTEIN RAMSTEIN T8435547 RATCLIFFE JSSU - CYPRUS 591 SU R8514022 HEPPLE CONINGSBY MARHAM G8434434 RAYWOOD CI OPS SIIB - CRANWELL L8511333 HOUSEAGO CI SQN CI SQN E8438177 ROSE TPS TPS 30008219 HUNTER-BENNETT CJPU ASU SY FLT H8423270 SCOTT WADDINGTON BZN D8515645 INKERSOLE DAC DAC B8418503 SEDDON SCAMPTON BENSON 30005786 JOHNSON MARHAM SIIB - HALTON L8422330 SHAKESPEARE NORTHOLT NORTHOLT 30010349 JONES DCPG MARHAM T8244385 TEAGUE LOSSIEMOUTH MARHAM L2689657 LAWES-CLARKE ASU SY FLT CJSU A8438173 WALKER CONNINGSBY WADDINGTON J8506837 LAWSON WADDINGTON LEUCHARS E8416485 YARDLEY DCPG DCPG 30010711 MILLAR LEUCHARS LOSSIEMOUTH 30000026 MOAN LEUCHARS LEEMING SGT - FS S8431774 PECK CJPU BZN C8400964 BAMBOROUGH ISFSI JARIC F8517229 PEGG WADDINGTON SCAMPTON B8240924 BELLINGHAM LEEMING DCPG 30025494 PICKERING CJPU SIIB - HALTON F8240810 BROOKS CJPU - SIS DCPG L8517231 PLANT BZN BZN F8419386 CLOSE DAC MARHAM 30000619 PRIOR DCPG DAC E8414207 CRUICKSHANK DCPG 22(Trg)Gp -HALTON 30004316 ROBERTS TPS HENLOW J2631645 CSETE DCPG DCPG C8444463 ROY DAC WADDINGTON P8228884 EDWARDS DCPG TPS D8517690 SIMPSON BZN BZN F8153595 FOERS SIIB - CRANWELL PSD 30032692 SMITH MARHAM SCAMPTON L8290065 HART CI SQN FIB - HENLOW 30006640 THOMPSON CJPU WITTERING K8411873 HOWE EOIT EOIT 30008392 TURNER LEEMING LINTON ON OUSE A8403389 MITCHELL DCPG PSD 30005805 WALES CI SQN CI SQN S8414628 MORGAN BENSON BENSON G8517247 WALSH BENSON HALTON G8418363 PULLEN GJSU HQRAFP 30008211 WHYTE CJPU ASU SY FLT C8208094 REYNOLDS HIGH WYCOMBE BZN P8517119 WILLIAMS ASU SY FLT BZN T8242178 ROBERTS DCPG DCPG 30030134 WILLIAMS BWH TPS G8248210 STAFFORD ISFSI CORSHAM 30023310 WILLIAMS CONINGSBY COSFORD Q8242256 THOMSON SIIB - CRANWELL ISFSI 30004205 WOODWARD BZN BZN FS - WO CPL - SGT P8222162 CARR CONINGSBY DIGBY S8417133 BAINES TPS TPS T8213076 BALMER SIB - GERMANY SIIB - HALTON T8445776 BARNABY VALLEY MARHAM F8246809 GONZALEZ MARHAM HENLOW R8310224 BARROW SIB - CRANWELL CJPU SIB G8213720 KERSHAW MARHAM VALLEY Q8427147 CAHILL NORTHOLT HALTON - RTS B8120666 MILLS AFCO - CRANWELL HIGH WYCOMBE - A6 C8433953 CAMM GIBRALTAR SIIB - CRANWELL G8219672 RICHARDSON TPS DI - ICSP P8415612 CAMPBELL 90SU CJPU J8308758 CRISP CJPU TPS NO NAME UNIT FROM UNIT TO These Promotions cover 1 Jan 12 -19 Nov 12. They are listed in alphabetical order, but do not represent where individuals came off the promotion board.

Provost Parade 35 HONOURS & AWARDS In Remembrance CplCpl BrentBrent JohnJohn McCarthyMcCarthy pl Brent John McCarthy, began his career within the Royal Air Force RAF Police, was killed Police. He was a man of many talents and Cin Afghanistan on 12 diverse interests including football, playing May 12, by small arms fire whilst drums in a band and representing the RAF deployed as part of a Police at hockey. Advisory Team at an Afghan Cpl McCarthy had been stationed at Uniform Police headquarters RAF Brize Norton since 2009 as part of near Patrol Base Attal in the 7 RAF Police Sqn, RAF Police. In 2011 Lashkar Gah district of Helmand he volunteered for a Close Support (CS) province. tour of Afghanistan as part of the Afghan Cpl McCarthy was born into a National Police Mentoring team alongside Service family on 18 February RMP colleagues. He completed 4 months 1987 in Hannover Germany. At comprehensive Pre deployment training a very young age he returned to with 174 Provost Company prior to arriving the Midlands of England where in Helmand in Apr 12 where he would be he attended Lilleshall Primary embedded with the battle groups as part of School and Orleton Park School HERRICK 16. in nearby Wellington. He was staunchly proud of the area and Sqn Ldr Carl Jeffery, OC 7 RAF Police apart from the early years of Squadron, said "Cpl Brent McCarthy was his life, Priorslee, Telford, was fiercely loyal and courageous, exemplifying where he called home. the character of the Royal Air Force Police. Following school he worked Cpl McCarthy was a young man with in a number of jobs before huge potential: intelligent, determined and committing himself to a Service extremely capable, he was a highly popular life with the Royal Air Force figure within his Flight and was firmly on in August 2008. Following his the path to great success in his career. Cpl training at RAF Halton and the McCarthy fully embraced all aspects of Defence College of Policing and Service life, whether representing the RAF Guarding at Southwick Park he playing Hockey or getting his mates together Remembering a Hero Brent had volunteered to deploy with 174 Provost Company, 3rd Regiment Royal Military Police as part of the Theatre Provost Group. He enjoyed his pre- deployment training and made friends very quickly, something Brent never had trouble doing. He was a very loveable character, never had a bad word to say against anyone, loved to crack a few jokes and with his very laid back approach to pretty much everything, was always willing to help anyone out. There’s not one person that could say a bad thing about Brent. During basic and police training his laid back personality was evident. The lads struggled to get him out of bed for inspections and his rifle was swapped for a small tree during an exercise when he failed to keep his rifle beside him when going to the toilet; he subsequently had to strip and clean the tree for normal daily cleaning. That was a time we will never forget, and although we have suffered the heartache of not only losing a colleague, but a friend and brother, we will be sure to remember him for the good times that we had the privilege of sharing with him and all the laughs he gave us. Brent was always one to test out knew bits of equipment, in particular the RAF Police pushbikes, when the Top Gear challenge began, racing against the marked up Astra to the main gate and back. Fully equipped and ready for action with his white police helmet, hi-vis jacket, stab vest, baton and cuffs and his bike bell. All of us knew that it was the 20mph speed limit that granted Brent’s victory, however he was certain it was his astounding fitness levels that won him the race! On 17th May Brent and Lee were both repatriated back to Brize, where many servicemen and members of the public lined the streets of nearby Carterton. The Brize Police Flight and dog section took up the opportunity to pay our own respects on Station before the cortege made its way to the Carterton memorial HONOURS & AWARDS CplCpl BrentBrent JohnJohn McCarthyMcCarthy for a beer, he was always a prominent figure popular and hugely respected among the men Brent was a professional soldier doing a job who will be sorely missed by his friends, his with whom he lived and fought - not always that he loved and in consequence paid the colleagues and all those who had the honour an easy trick for a military policeman from ultimate sacrifice. You will never be forgotten of serving with him. Dynamic and with another Service, but one he achieved with my friend and will always be a brother to the an enormous sense of fun, Cpl McCarthy's ease and some style. Ever to the fore and Royal Air Force Police. “ infectious enthusiasm could be relied upon to sharing danger and discomfort, his light- cheer those who were down, to inspire those hearted approach to life, easy going nature Cpl Jim Bailey, RAF Police said, "I got to who were lost and to comfort those in despair. and cool professionalism made him a natural know Brent over a couple of arduous courses It is great testament to Cpl McCarthy's advisor to the Afghan National Police." we did together. Brent had this huge presence character that despite a few brief years in about him. The sort of lad that when he the Service, he can claim so many friends Cpl Justin Duncan, RAF Police, said, walked into a room you knew he was there. amongst his Trade, his Station and the RAF as "Brent was a strong, ambitious, charismatic The way he went about his business was so a whole. Cpl McCarthy's family and friends individual with an infectious smile and selfless, Always putting others feelings before should take great comfort in the knowledge even bigger heart. It is, and always will be a his own. He’d be happier to see a smile on that Brent was an exemplary policeman of privilege to have known Brent. Undoubtedly someone else’s face than his and he would go whom they should be proud." this is a tragic loss to the service, but most out of his way to make it happen. He could lift importantly to his loved ones and friends. morale at the drop of a hat, always knowing Lieutenant Colonel Dino Bossi, CO, Brent will remain in our memories and our the right things to say for a good laugh. A Police Mentoring and Advisory Group, 1st hearts and I know when I feel disheartened I huge loss to our trade and even more so to the Battalion Welsh Guards, said, "Corporal will be sure to look to my memory of Brent lives of friends and family that he has touched Brent McCarthy came to 1st Battalion Welsh for inspiration. A brilliant soldier and a so deeply. God bless, The big lad, with a big Guards during our training for Operation gleaming bloke. It is an honour to have known personality and an even bigger heart.” HERRICK 16. Over a six-month period Brent McCarthy." before the tour began he lived and operated Cpl Si Townsend, RAF Police, said, “Cpl with the men who he was to support in Cpl Alfie Johnson, RAF Police, said, “ Brent McCarthy, A man striving to excel himself Afghanistan. His intelligence, ready wit was a work colleague, a top friend, my right within the RAF Police, Putting himself and his desire to muck in and take part in hand man on the hockey pitch, and a hero. He forward for the tasks most wouldn’t volunteer all aspects of communal life meant that he always knew how to party and without doubt for, he did this with such humility. This fitted seamlessly into an extremely tight could make everyone laugh. We’ve shared in itself sums up his character – selfless, team. Corporal McCarthy was extremely some memories that will never be forgotten. determined and a true hero.”

garden. As we all lined the road and stood to attention, you could feel the sadness and see the tears in everyone’s eyes as we watched Brent leave our military unit for the last time. The evening however lifted everyone’s spirits as many of the sections youngsters (bar one or two!) headed off into nearby Witney for a few drinks and to share good stories and memories following a Station Beer Call in the Spotlight Club that was extremely well attended. On 31st May, many of us travelled up to Telford, where we witnessed a beautiful funeral service, in which his family paid tribute to Brent through their heartfelt and truly emotional speeches. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. The bearer party, all of which were RAFP did a great job, Brent was a tall lad and by no means ‘light’. The service was concluded with a Hercules flypast, a 21 gun salute by the Queens Colour Squadron and the last post being played. In the recent weeks the RAF Police Flight at Brize have been working together to build a memorial garden In Brent’s memory and for somewhere we can go to reflect on his life. The garden, which was arranged and designed by Cpl Sam Biddiscombe and Cpl Ian Blow, was officially opened on 22nd August by Brent’s girlfriend Cpl Sarah Briggs from RAF Benson. It was great to see everyone working together, mucking in through the tough weather conditions to get it finished. We speak on behalf of the whole of the police flight and dog section at Brize, and I’m sure of many other RAF Police who knew Brent when we say we are so proud to have had the privilege to have known you. You made the ultimate sacrifice and you did us all proud, we miss you and may you Rest In Peace.

Fiat Justitia

Written by Cpl Sophie Broom and Cpl Stuart Coombs

Provost Parade 37 HONOURS & AWARDS Op HERRICK 16 - Homecoming Parade On 2 November 2012 at RAF Henlow the and assist the Afghan Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal National Police in Sir Stephen Dalton, awarded Operational developing a wide range Service Medals to RAF Police personnel of essential police skills from No 2 (Tactical) Police Squadron and and capabilities. Through the 3 operational Police Wings as they their professionalism returned home from Afghanistan. and commitment, the The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Royal Air Force Police Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, said: are making a really “I am delighted to be at Royal Air positive contribution to Force Henlow today to award Operational the transition of security Service Medals as we welcome home, from to Afghan control.” Afghanistan, the brave men and women No 2 (Tactical) Police from our Royal Air Force Police Wings.” Sqn served six months “The Royal Air Force Police, alongside providing a life-saving the Royal Air Force Regiment, play a capability as part crucial part in the protection of our people of the Camp Bastion and aircraft as well as those of our coalition Force Protection Wing. allies. Their highly effective conduct in this Their roles ranged from vital role has helped enable continuous air carrying out foot patrols to counter terrorist operations from our deployed bases around searches, maintenance of flight line security the world.” and control of entry. Marking the support and sacrifice of the Officer Commanding No 2 (T)PS, RAF Police, who serve on the front line Squadron Leader Richard Curzon, said: alongside their coalition colleagues, Air “Camp Bastion is a huge base, similar in Chief Marshal Dalton also met the family size to the town of Reading, and host to tens of Corporal Brent McCarthy, killed in of thousands of personnel and hundreds of action in Helmand province on the 12th of aircraft. As the strategic focal point for all May this year whilst working as part of an troops and supplies arriving in Afghanistan it Afghan Police Advisory Team. is critical that the base is well defended, and “In Afghanistan, beyond their Force I am proud of the diligence and skill shown Protection role, the Royal Air Force by the men and women of this Squadron as Police are also working as mentors to train we carried out our tasks.” 3 TPS AWARDED THE DE PUTRON TROPHY

In Nov 1948, Air Cdr Owen De Putron operations overseas and in the UK, in has been acknowledged and advanced the PM(RAF) introduced an annual competition a wide variety of roles ranging through understanding and confidence in the utility of “To promote overall efficiency and force protection, provost and Air Platform reserves in supporting the vital role the RAF professionalism amongst RAFP Flights”, Security duties, to highly demanding Afghan Police plays in the UK Defence Mission. Flights were judged on police efficiency, mentoring and Counter IED taskforce In recognition of these achievements, for turn-out, drill, kit, maintenance of records operations. Furthermore the professionalism, 2011, the De Putron Trophy is awarded to and the cleanliness and general appearance skill and commitment of 3TPS personnel No3 (RAuxAF) Tactical Police Squadron. of [their] accommodation. Today, the De Putron Trophy is awarded to the RAF Police Squadron judged to have excelled in a broader range of areas: support to operations, physical fitness, commitment to force development activities, community engagement, charity fundraising and honours and awards are taken into consideration. 3TPS has made a remarkable contribution to RAF Police

3TPS new Graduating Flight. The Reviewing Officer was Lord John Stevens (Honorary Air Cdre), front row, second from right. Sqn Ldr Bev Peart (previous OC 3TPS) takes receipt of the RAFP Du Putron Trophy for 2011.

38 Provost Parade HONOURS & AWARDS No 2 TPS receive their Afghanistan campaign medals

Members of No 2 (T)PS received their HQ RAFP, RAF Henlow, in front of family, to North Site and received an in depth, Afghanistan Operational Service Medals friends and colleagues when they received RAF Police Capability demonstration, after returning from Helmand province on 4 their medals from Air Marshal Andy Pulford, encompassing Close Protection, Weapons May 12 after completing a 6 month tour at Deputy Commander (Capability) / Air intelligence, Biometrics, Military Working Camp Bastion. Member for Personnel. Dogs, CIFT, Force Protection, Close Support, The RAF Police proudly paraded outside Air Marshal Pulford was then escorted ANSF Mentoring and Air Platform Security.

Provost Parade 39 COMMUNITY & CHARITY A million reasons to read a book World Book Night 2012

World Book Night took place on 23 April provided a justification to aid in my selection recipients and hopefully they will both enjoy 2012 across the UK, Ireland, Germany and which was an undertaking to distribute the that book and maybe inspired to carry on America where 20,000 volunteers distribute books to colleagues at Camp Bastion. I was reading. The books are intended to be passed 24 copies of a book which they have selected selected to be one of the 20,000 and the books on once they have been read by an individual from the 25 available. The idea is to distribute were delivered to Waterstones for collection. and each reader is encouraged to register with books to people who don’t read regularly to Unfortunately they were delivered too late for the WBN website to track each book over its re-introduce them to books to share in the the Herrick 16 RiP to take with them to read life span. So if you’re out at Bastion in the volunteer’s interest in reading and hopefully on the journey to Bastion so arrangements near future and you see a copy then please ignite a renewed interest in reading. The were made with 99 Sqn RAF to fly them into enjoy a free book. 23 April is used as – you may well know Bastion on a C-17. – is the birth and date of death of William Sgt Longley (seen without the hat and FS Sarrazin, CI Ops South, RAF Halton. Shakespeare. kneeling in the I volunteered to gift ‘Someone Like You’ centre of the by Roald Dahl as it is a compilation of adult photo) very short stories from an author that lived and kindly undertook worked as an author in Great Missenden, before deploying a few miles from RAF Halton where I am to distribute the based. He served in the RAF during the book in theatre to Second World War initially as a pilot and the RAF Police later as an IntO. His RAF career is quite serving there with interesting and varied and makes interesting 2 Tactical Police reading in itself. He may be better known for Sqn on H16 which some of his other works more popular with he did recently. We the younger audience (involving copious didn’t make the 23 amounts of chocolate or a large Peach) than April 12 deadline the adults who may well have read them to but the important their children or watched the film version! thing is that the Having volunteered to gift the books I books got to the

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40 Provost Parade COMMUNITY & CHARITY Youth Engagement Strategy Day

The aim of the Youth Engagement group through the task effectively. Strategy (YES) activity day was to Encouragement was given throughout give the local children of Sandy, a which reflected in the response from chance to meet some Royal Air Force the youths involved. Police personnel who have received The exercises continued into the welfare parcels from them, whilst afternoon with more of the general deployed to Afghanistan. Organised public gathering to watch the event. by Mr Ken Lynch and Corporal Nath It became apparent that certain groups Kaye, the event took place on Sunday worked well as a team which created 24th June 2012 and gave youngsters a healthy competition for all involved. a chance to undertake leadership At 3 pm two personnel from RAF exercises and interact with personnel Northolt Dog Section along with from RAF Henlow. Poor weather an Military Working Police Dog, conditions in the morning reduced arrived and prepared for a capability the number of children attending, but demonstration. The general public Above: Cpl Nath Kaye, Mr Ken Lynch, Cpl Tom East with a healthy competitive element stood back as they watched the dog and Supervisors Darren and Dave the day progressed well and more take down the Dog Handler wearing people involved as the weather the protective suit. The capability improved! demonstration brought the day to a Upon arrival at Sandy playing very successful conclusion. fields, the RAF Police were met Sandy Youth Club and other locals by Mr Ken Lynch and the other send many parcels to RAF Police Supervisors for the day. After setting personnel deployed in Afghanistan up the exercises, the groups were on Op HERRICK each year. The YES separated. The leadership tasks then day was a wonderful opportunity to commenced and were rotated through show the appreciation of the RAF until lunch. The exercise assistants Police to the people of Sandy. The day had scope to alter the leadership was a great success despite the earlier tasks to best suit the group so every bad weather, hopefully more people person had an opportunity to lead the will be involved in future events.

RAF POLICE WELFARE FUND ‘Giving to those that have given’

Did you know? thousands of pounds all received. Please think first PMWO, ext 7031. in direct support of RAF to include the RAF Police The Royal Air Force Police men and women. Welfare Fund as a recipient The RAF Police Welfare Police Welfare Fund of any fundraising you Fund, it is your Fund, exists to provide financial How can you help? might be part of in the please support so that we assistance to RAF Police future. may go on giving to those men and women, their Donations and fundraising who have given. former colleagues and their activity are the life-blood Further details immediate families. of the Fund. Without your valuable support the Fund For information on The purpose of the is unable to make the much fundraising ideas or Royal Air Force Police needed contributions it requests for donations, Welfare Fund is to improve does. Whether you are grants or loans, see the amenities, the purchase of involved in section social Welfare Fund section articles or equipment or night, participating in a of the RAF Police the running of non profit charity sporting event or website, or contact making ventures that able to give a percentage the Chairman of the contribute directly to the of any RAF Police profit- Fund, Sqn Ldr Richard morale of the RAF Police. making activity (eg bar Curzon (01462 851515 Over the last year alone, the sales), all donations to / 95381) ext 6174, Fund has provided several the Fund are gratefully or WO Gary Owen.

Provost Parade 41 COMMUNITY & CHARITY

are at it again in aid of the "Macmillan Cancer Support" Charity

Coast to Coast Cycle Ride: of the team which supported three cyclists doing this, and it makes it all worth while. over a period of 10 days during a cycle ride You are doing your bit to make a difference 114 miles in one day, Workington from John o' Groats to Land's End, a journey in someone else's life. to Sunderland 5th June 2012 of over 900 miles. His efforts helped raise Hartside summit was our pre arranged rest thousands of pounds for charity. We therefore and half way point. More hills were to come, The idea for the ride was agreed over a beer; thought it a fitting tribute to Billy that we and rain and the wind increased too, despite we had completed end to end in 2009 and should conduct this ride and dedicate it to a couple of near misses with the locals not 2010 before, but fancied doing the Coast to his memory. looking where they were going, we eventually Coast this time. I’d wanted to do the ride for By the beginning of June the ride was reached the outskirts of Sunderland safely, a while LCpl Tim Aston MPGS and LCpl organised, punishing training schedules having crossed over the Wear bridge the finish Dave Stanley MPGS was certainly up for the had been adhered to and bikes serviced. We was in sight. Just over 9 hours and 114 miles challenge. Soon after that we recruited Cpl were ready and before we knew it we were completed we celebrated the end with a well Steve Bradley MPGS and Pte Dave Brunton travelling North West with excitement and earned bag of fish and chips and the odd beer. MPGS as our support team and over the trepidation. I can honestly say that it was an experience next 4 months, we trained hard for the event. We set off from Workington at 0745 hrs I will not forget, the longest and hardest day Despite many attempts at sponsorship we 5th June 2012 on a clear breezy Diamond cycling I have ever done. At the last count we managed to obtain sponsorship assistance Jubilee Day. Ahead of us lay 114 miles to the hope to have collected over £500 for this very from the Adjutant General Corps Association East coast and our aim to reach Sunderland. worthy cause. Thank you again to everyone and Thales Training and Simulation (Merlin) The ride started relatively easy and dry until who supported us. Ltd based at RAF Linton on Ouse. This we entered the hills, then the skies opened up. support was vital to the success of the ride Our first main objective was getting to the top Mark Ford and we all thank those who kindly backed us. of the Hartside summit with an altitude of SSGT The ride was also conducted in 1903 feet, I think we all Military Provost Guard Service memory of a friend LCpl questioned ourselves Defence Platoon Billy Trotter MPGS, Billy at some point going RAF Linton on Ouse sadly passed away last May up to the summit, but after a long battle against the thought quickly cancer. Despite his illness passed, you only and selfless attitude in 2009, have to think about Billy volunteered to be part why you are COMMUNITY & CHARITY Direct Sports & Embroidery

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Provost Parade 43 COMMUNITY & CHARITY National Armed Forces Day 2012, Plymouth

On the morning of 29 Jun 12, an RAF Police decided to hold the event on Plymouth Hoe, significantly lacking. Throughout the day team consisting of four personnel from No which is situated on the seafront. As this was we received people of all ages and walks of 1 (Tactical) Police Sqn and one from No 3 an event to promote all of the Armed Forces, life, from retired members of RAF and RAF (Tactical) Police Sqn headed off to sunny the ground consisted of three main ‘villages’; Police, the majority of whom expressed how Plymouth to play their part in the National Royal Navy, Army and RAF. The RAF much the trade had changed over the years Armed Forces Day 2012 event. The aim, village was situated on the most southern since they served, to genuinely interested to raise the public’s awareness of the RAF point of the Hoe, which meant that we had a members of the public who wished to learn Police and the myriad of capabilities we more pleasant view of the coast (as per the more about the military. There were some deliver to our Service and the MOD as pictures), but we were also an effective wind visitors, who had never heard of the RAF whole from both a regular and Reservist break for the rest of the displays making the Police, asking “Are you the same as the Army perspective. setup all the more fun!!! Police?” They were obviously then educated The National Armed Forces Day Event is The day itself commenced with great in the diverse roles we deliver. One middle the largest of its kind to be held in the country weather and the public started to arrive aged lady said “I never knew that the RAF and each City bids to hold the event each earlier than the published times, which was Police was so exciting!”. year. As Plymouth won this year’s bid, they a positive opening to the event. By 1100 The day was regarded as a complete hrs, there were approximately 40,000 on success in terms of our overall aim. The Plymouth Hoe! Although the RAF village, attendance was higher than expected, with and particularly the RAF Police display, people who had travelled countywide to was situated at the most southerly point attend. Many personnel saw this day as yet of the Hoe, we still received hundreds of another working weekend for the Services visitors throughout the days and at times our (many may still think this way!), but no one humble marquee was literally full of visitors who attended can say that we did not achieve interested in what we had to show them. our objective in promoting awareness of the Our display proved an ideal contribution diverse Services, trades and capabilities that to the AFCO stand, as we were able to offer the Military has to offer to the country, as we prospective recruits more detailed and real did this in spades. The RAF Police Stand. life information on the RAF Police as both Flt Lt Tony Perrin Officers & NCOs, an area that the AFCO was B Flt, 1(T)PS COMMUNITY & CHARITY

Cpl Botfield explaining personal safety equipment and it’s use.

Cpl Vicky Tyman (in No 2 Service Dress) explaining our GPD and home base role.

AC Faye Hudson explaining OSPREY Body Armour, showing a young member of the public how much it weighs without the plates fitted!

Sgt Ian Curtis demonstrating the use of ‘The Grudge’ metal detector.

Provost Parade 45 COMMUNITY & CHARITY 3TPS - RAF Police Reserves Pathfinder March 2012

nervously stamping our feet, settling a bacon next Check Point. From 1943, it is home sandwich and wondering if the training and to 627 and 571 Squadrons with Lancasters planning really was enough after all. Well, and Mosquittos…fortunately arriving to being up at this time there is always the make it their home after a concrete runway bonus of seeing the sun come up and the was installed (previously it turns out that spirit of the moment gets everyone off to the Wellingtons of 218 Squadron had been a sprightly start. Through Houghton, the landing on fenland soil, to the cost of a balance between the banter of a couple few under carriages) Onward bound and of hundred walkers and the courtesy of a All Saints Church at Longstanton looms boisterous crowd awakening for the residents into view: it would have been desirable to is watched with some disinterest by the odd stop and fully appreciate the memorial and domestic cat. The pace starts to settle and history of the building, though the reality we begin to string out as the distance really and imensity of the task in hand is really begins to dawn on all. The odd quaint cottage now becoming plain to all. and the Water Mill stand out as points of The rivers Dove and Ouse come up In 2012 the next-to-be Graduating course interest, but the eagerness to get some miles through more country side and the feet are of Ph 2 students completed the annual under the belt are still pushing people on starting to put up real protests for some. Pathfinder March challenge: 46 miles around at a pace. Godmanchester (founded by the Personally, I find the Foreign Legion had the Pathfinder Airfields in 20 hours. Romans and sacked by the Saxons) is put the best policy: ‘Leave the boots on and In 1942 Bomber Command had to face the behind us as the first landmark of Graveley save the bad news for the end’! We make fact that the poor accuracy of bombing Airfield is coming up -home of 35 Squadron Check Point 5 at St Helen’s School: the day raids combined with the losses of planes who flew the Halifax, and later Lancasters is in full swing and the support of members and crew had to be addressed: to which end, and later joined by 629 Squadron in 1944 of the local community, coupled with some elite crews and navigators were selected flying the Mosquitto. The first real landmark sunshine gives a lift to all. and equipped with the best radio navigation of the day is met at roughly the same point at systems of the day. Their purpose was to which the odd pair of new boots is starting locate the targets ahead of the main heavy to let their presence be felt. The first Check bomber force, mark with incendary, and Point with 8 miles under your belt gives leave. A simple but most dangerous of tasks. a moral boost…and where the wise and This was compounded by the need to fly in seasoned campaigners begin to take on low, dwell longer over the targets in order some protein. to confirm and accurately mark the targets. The route to Check point 2 is an uneventful They also flew an 45 missions rather than other than the village of Elsworth, where the normal 30 for regular Bomber Command the Rector was the Rev W Awdry. ( He expectations. As a result of the losses taken wrote the Thomas The Tank engine books.) and the bravery displayed, Squadron records There didn’t seem to be too many literary provide a testament and example still appreciators amongst us at this point though. relevant to this day: from the moto of 156 “Thomas the who!” I tried. Never mind, Squadron “We Light The Way.” the Poachers Public House at the end of the village is a welcome stop. A pub: it’s open, there is tea and food, and the first real temptation to rest long enough for the Pretty much half way along and the leg muscles to start seizing. So on your feet distance is starting to take its toll. The test and off to Check Point 3. Make half way really begins from here on as there are the target, and its all down hill from there is some long stretches through Colne and one way of looking at it. Somersham. Everyone starts to settle into RAF Oakington comes up en route to the a quiet rythm and it is turning into buisness mentality. My own trade secret really comes into play around now: whole meal sliced bread, soft cheese instead of butter and corned beef slabs…it’s not pretty but it’s real long distance Red Bull. The Royal Oak Pub entering Warboys comes up rather suddenly around the corner The Squadrons were based in the south on the main road as the day is edging towards of the country at the airfields of Oakington, sundown. There is a clash of emotions Graveley, Wyton and Warboys and flew mixing cool beer and aching limbs…yes Wellingtons, Lancasters, and Mosquitto they really are aching now! The motivation aircraft up until December of 1945. remains high though - knowing that the end So, 13 3TPS Ph2 members find ourselves is closer by each step now and the map pages at 0400 hours Saturday 23rd June in the are getting fewer. Again, if only there was chilly dawn air of RAF Wyton, rather more time and we weren’t so tired, it would

46 Provost Parade COMMUNITY & CHARITY have been good to stop and spend some time Turning onto the obvious WW2 concrete at RAF Wyton and the day is finally over. at the Warboy’s Church and appreciate the track of Warboys Airfield is really one Lessons learned: travel light, leave the tool memorial stained glass window. Perhaps foot in front of the other territory now and kit and the survival pack in the Land Rover, another day. makes you appreciate the size of the base keep moving and keep eating. as it would have been in times gone by . The ‘thanks’ are endless - we just have to Home of 156 Squadron whose losses, up to turn up and do it, the organisers, volunteers disbandment in 1945, amounted to a total and support crews, who all give time, effort of 45 Wellingtons and 117 Lancasters - a and hard work for such events such as this, sobering thought indeed. are often a forgotten army. Their time and Kings Ripton Village Hall and sea of tired efforts ensure that history is kept alive and faces: we pick up our reflective tabards and not forgotten. They have our gratitude. set out for Wyton on the long, long, stretch of road. Spirits are lifted though by the support of the locals and householders waving and Thankyou for a great day and encouraging us along the way. perhaps we may see you next year Turning eventually into the reception area - 3 Sqdn RAuxAF Henlow

on an adventure. I spent the my visit. RAF POLICE best part of five weeks touring The people of Tonga are amongst the across Australia, Singapore, friendliest people I have ever met. It was a Hong Kong and, the Kingdom great experience to visit the Kingdom and of Tonga itself. I travelled meet up with those that I worked alongside in TONGA LIAISON from Sydney, Australia to Afghan; definitely an experience of a lifetime I am Cpl Francis Tierney and I am currently Tonga's capital, Nuku'alofa. It took a 4 and a great opportunity. I met great people based at RAF Valley on GPD. In Oct 11 1/2 hour flight from Sydney heading east and made some great friends and, I hope one I deployed to Bastion, Afghanistan, to towards the International Date Line - one of day I to visit again. commence a six month FP tour having the furthest locations from the UK at over Cpl Francis Tierney been attached to 2TPS since May 11. 16,000km away. For those that don't know, Whilst on deployment I worked at both the Kingdom of Tonga consists of over 170 the ECP and MEP where I worked closely tiny islands in the South Pacific where, alongside various nationalities including the time difference is thirteen hours ahead those from the USMC, Bahraini Special of London. Forces, Royal Tongan Marines as well as Tonga is a beautiful country of iconic palm Afghan interpreters and Philippine workers. trees, picturesque beaches with white sandy It was instinctive to me, being a keen linguist, beaches, turquoise waters, colourful flowers to learn new words and phrases (all the good and... mosquitoe. I'd never been bitten by a ones, of course) in those different languages mosquito until I visited Tonga and there are spoken within Camp Bastion; I soon made plenty of them! Tonga is a tropical paradise new friends. Whilst working at the ECP over (if you minus the mozzies). I spent only six the winter months I made good friends with days in Tonga where I stayed with Daniel two Royal Tongan Marines, Taniela (Daniel) Kalu, a good friend of mine. I was introduced Kalu and Vage Loketi (Rocket). to his friendly family where I was presented I made such good friends with the two with a necklace of fragrant flowers and guys that I was often invited to attend their kindly put up in his concrete breeze-block evening devotion service which, they would shack for the duration. Chickens, puppies, conduct every night without fail in their lizards and all sorts of critters roamed lines. It wasn't apparent to me at first how freely on Daniel's land... some even inside. devoted the Tongan people were to their I ate fresh coconut on a regular basis and Christian religion, nor, what great singers even sampled some of the locally produced they are until I attended one of their services. 'vodka'. The rest of the food wasn't really I was even invited to evening social events to my taste - barbecued cow's head with where the Tongans would sing... and play sweet potato, pig skin in a coconut marinade the ukulele... definitely an odd experience, wrapped in cassava plant leaves... However, listening to songs and hymns sung in Tongan, this isn't just any food, this is Tongan food. in a tent, with a ukulele, in a war zone... Whilst in the Kingdom I met up with many I was also personally invited to attend a of those that I got to know in Afghanistan. I special service in which the Prime Minister also visited many places including Captain of Tonga and Commander of the Tongan Cook's Landing Site, where his ship landed Defence Services were present. At the end in 1773 (also where HM The Queen visited of the service group photographs were taken in 1953), and the Tongan Defence Services and I even had the privilege of meeting Lord (TDS) HQ in Nuku'alofa. I had made prior Tu'ivakano, the Prime Minister of Tonga, and arrangements to visit the TDS HQ where, Brigadier 'Uta'atu, Commander of the Tongan I met with the Deputy Commander where, Defence Services. This was definitely a I presented a special gift. The gift was a highlight of my tour, if not one of my career. specially engraved gold-plated RAFP issue I returned to the UK in May 12 and spent whistle commemorating Operation Herrick only eight days at home before setting off 15, kindly donated for the purpose of

Provost Parade 47 SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT

RAF POLICE LADIES SHOW OF STRENGTH

Due to the hard work and coordination of RAF Champs. I needed to confirm 8 ladies Wycombe, set up the competition area, and FS Gareth Davies, the RAF held an RAF for training and the competition, using the started training. We had to learn the basics Championships Tug Of War (TOW) event at resources I had ( - the only friends I had in and pretty much start from scratch. We had DCAE Cosford on 20 Jun 12, and an Inter my phonebook) I managed to get the names I the privilege to be trained by the Combined Services’ event, RAF High Wycombe, on needed. Fairly swiftly, FS Davies confirmed Services Coach, SSgt Chris Orr, and the now 4 Jul 12. Not only were these successful with the Army Coach that the competition longest serving puller in the military, Chief events, but service history made, as the RAF was on. Tech (Taff) Edwards. We had a nervous entered a Ladies TOW team in the Inter The majority of the team were novice; Sgt start to training as the hype of the event Services for the first time! Jennifer Harrison had the most experience of became clear; our presence had generated For a number of years the RAF have us all, she had coached the men’s team, and interest from the Stn Cdr, the President not convincingly competed in an Inter competed in charity events. I had watched of the Sports Board, the Army team, and Service Tug Of War event. The Army have the sport for a few years and pulled for the the Stn Photographer. We had a lesson on dominated the sport and were probably a Army team at the Herts County Fair in 2011. etiquette (no swearing, hand shakes, and little thirsty for some good competition. I Fg Off Katy Steed had coached the Army’s three cheers for the other team) and with was tasked with corralling ladies to make a Int Corps team, in a previous life. The rest of practice we mastered the skill of dropping TOW team. I had a nucleus of 4 ladies who the ladies were… ‘roped in’. Pardon the pun. in unison when the judge signalled to pull. were willing to give it another go after the On the 3 Jul we met at RAF High The days training complete we were sent

48 Provost Parade SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT

back to rest, eat, and complain about our In the future. “visible bruises.” The combined weight of the team was We are looking to formalise our team and ideal. However, we had to make sure that we recruit more. We intend to apply to the The ladies team were: didn’t over do it at supper; the pub it was! Sports Board for partial funding for kit Cpl Lyndsay Roberts had an establishment and get TOW into RAF Stations, through Flt Lt Jane Brocklebank, Admin in mind that was known for enormous the CO’s Cup, funs days, etc. Some of us Flt Lt Colleen Brown, RAFP cheesecake (good ballast!). We spent the are joining local civilian teams to train, Flt Lt Sarah Carrigan, RAFP and all of us have the determination to win evening discussing tactics; we had the Fg Off Katy Steed, RAFP confidence that would surprise them with next year. our ‘drop’ and that our RAF stubbornness If you would like to get involved, ladies or Sgt Jennifer Harrison, A TECH M would see us through the rest. Failing that, gents, please contact me at RAF Henlow Cpl Caz Froggatt, Caterer we would distract them with ‘girlie like’ (95371 7425) [email protected]. The Cpl Lyndsay Roberts, RAFP behaviour (“OMG it’s like a proper rope outdoor season is coming to a close but with SAC Emily Burns, Trg Nurse a little training and a lot of determination and everything” noticed Cpl Caz Froggatt). SAC Pauline Short, Admin On the day of the competition we nervously we firmly believe we can credibly compete waited for the Army ladies to arrive and, like in next year’s season. a scene from the movie Dodgeball, the lights by Flt Lt Colleen Brown dimmed, intimidating music played, and a spotlight focused our eyes on the enemy. They wore matching Lycra leotards and performed acrobatics into the hall. Slight exaggeration aside, the ladies arrived and we realised they had the height and weight advantage that we feared. Whatever the result, we knew that the Army ladies were glad of the competition; they had recently held their Army Champs and this was a mix of the successful pullers. Their coach took the opportunity to have a team photo with us all together, and we were then ready to pull. The gents pulled first in the 600 Kg and the Army ‘A’ team won. It was decided that we would pull in a catch weight (no weight limit). Flt Lt Jane Brocklebank was our coach and we went into the arena.

PICK UP THE ROPE,, TAKE THE STRAIN,, STEADY, PULL!

We surprised the girls with our ‘drop’ and made the most out of that advantage. We started to pull them in. They dug in and so did we. 10 seconds on the rope felt like an hour. The Army girls got themselves in unison and started to pull us forward. Being No1, I could see the line coming closer but the strength of the girls behind, and the shouts of “dig in, dig in”, resulted in us having one of the longest ends of the competition. Not even the pouring rain could dampen the enthusiasm and we displayed the RAF stubbornness discussed the day before. In the end the Army had the skill that made all the difference and they took the gold. Although we wanted to make history twofold by winning, we were not disappointed by our efforts. We were pleased that we had given them a challenge and overwhelmingly we were thirsty for more.

A successful event thanks to FS Davies, Taff, and all of the ladies and gents involved.

Provost Parade 49 SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT

EXERCISE CUMBRIAN CHALLENGE

20 – 24 May 12 as there was no clear path visible, which again tested the navigation skills of those Exercise Cumbrian Challenge involved a in the group. The peak of the route was at broad spectrum of skill levels, making it Scafell Pike; and with clear skies this offered challenging for both the instructors and those a great view of the surrounding area. involved. The first day was spent travelling Having finished the trekking part of the to Keswick itself and ended with an initial exercise, we headed off in the minibus to brief on the exercise plan and routes for the Whinlatter Forest Park for some Mountain next day. Biking. We had an introduction to navigating On the first day, the group started and through trails and demonstrating the ability finished in Grasmere, undertaking varying to complete various abilities which catered terrain along the route. Each leg was led by for all levels. The blue (novice) routes a different member of the team, giving them were undertaken on the morning giving the opportunity to develop navigational and those with little experience a chance to personal skills. The route was a good mixture get used to the feel of the bikes. Certain of ground types and varying gradients people then undertook the technical south which along with the excellent weather red (intermediate) route. The red route is conditions, made it an enjoyable day. The more difficult to negotiate which tested group mixed well as expected and everyone all abilities, combined with the high helped with confirmation of grids and map temperatures, made it a great activity. orientation, which further added to the The second part of the day was spent enjoyment of the day. After approximately on the ‘Go Ape’ High Ropes course. 5 hours out on the route, we arrived back This again called for great teamwork and at our transport at Grasmere and returned communication skills and was thoroughly to Denton House Hostel. Some members of enjoyed all round! the group volunteered to cook evening meal The final day was spent clearing from and prepare packed lunches. Similarly to the the accommodation and travelling back previous night, we all gathered to discuss the to RAF Henlow. following day’s routes. All personnel had Exercise Cumbrian Challenge consisted gained something from the day, whether it of trekking, Mountain Biking and High be learning new skills or brushing up. Later Ropes, all of which were planned so that night participants we split into team of personnel had a good variation of 2 to plot the route themselves, estimating activities. Across the group, everyone timing, distance and speed. interacted well through the whole On the second day, the route started and exercise both on and off duty. The great finished in the same place in Seathwaite. As organisation of the exercise definitely with the first day, the lead was rotated through showed, which made the days run members of the group. The temperature for smoothly. The mixed abilities made the day was hot, so ensuring people were it challenging in different areas but staying hydrated, being checked regularly teamwork and good banter made each was a priority. Along the route, some legs day as enjoyable as the next. AT and were slightly confusing if you followed the FD are key factors that effect morale, contour, however with guidance from the welfare and the esprit de corps of the instructors and by studying the map more RAF. closely, we were quickly back on track! Cpl Tom East Rock/boulder fields were difficult to navigate

50 Provost Parade SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT

On the day of the The team were starting to spread at this EXERCISE CUMBRIAN CHALLENGE event we aimed as point, so it was down to banter to keep us a team to complete altogether along with support from the the course in crowds around the route. However, we sub 2 ? hours, were slightly concerned as we hadn’t made having being it to any of the electrical obstacles as yet. told sub 3 hours Another set of high walls and there it was was respectful. the first electrical obstacle. A 30 metre Fashionably late leopard crawl whilst being covered by as all military water from hose pipes and numerous wires personnel are there giving you a cheeky 10,000 shock as you was unfortunately touched them. Amusing looking back at no time for a other people going through the pain or your warm up, so it team’s reactions which of course just added was straight into to the banter. Tom had the right approach Whilst on Op Herrick 15 a the race. The first mile involved a chest and simply went for it. few of the lads decided that we height river crossing into a leopard crawl, Three quarters of the way around, showed then uphill under barb wire. (Bring it on). that some were stronger than others but we required something physical Everyone was feeling good and we found still wanted to complete it as a team. A to train for on our return. ourselves at the front of the pack for our few more water crossings of high beams start time. and monkey bars and a high entry before Eventually Cpl Dan McKenna (RAF Brize Next came one of the worst obstacles the obstacle named Mount Everest; This Norton) Cpl Robert Holt (RAF Regt 3Sqn of the course, especially for Dan; a huge was basically a slippery half pipe on which RAF Wittering) and myself came across ice bath just to wake you up. I don’t think you relied on other competitors to help an event called ‘Tough Mudder’, based it would be appropriate to mention what you at the top. This took some of us a just outside of Kettering. A Half Marathon came out of his mouth immediately after few attempts, however, we were over this encompassing 26 obstacles, awesome, and this. However, we had a short run to the and the finish was in sight. Our legs were something we had to enter. We spead the Berlin walls, closely followed by a hail bail beginning to feel the lactic acid building word and the 3 of us were joined by Cpl mountain. A quarter of the way in and we up so thankfully it wasn’t far to go. In true Tom East (OTF) RAF Henlow. The event were all feeling good and setting a decent ‘Tough Mudder’ style the last obstacle was was the 13th of May, 6 weeks after end of pace, but still along way to go and a lot of a 20 metre dash through electric wires to the tour so independent training was required obstacles to overcome. finish line where we received a well earned when on PODL. The next few obstacles involved log beer and a token t-shirt for the troubles. Once booked on we decided that we carrying, cargo net crawls, river crossings What can only be described as would raise funds in aid of the RAF and then we approached the half way point a challenging event but a thoroughly Benevolent fund, which were extremely at exactly 60 minutes. It was a quick drink enjoyable day, we showed that as a team supportive of us. We soon received vests, and we ploughed on. We soon realised why we managed a great time of 2 hrs 15 mins; collection buckets, various wrist bands and the water station was here as we entered half well above average. This is definitely an posters to start the sponsorship rolling. mile mud mounds. This was thick mud, so event I would recommend to anyone who In total we managed to collect £312.00 it was almost a case of hands and knees for has a goal to aim for, or who wants a great thanks to family and friends. The RAF that. This was closely followed by the fire day with mates that you work with both at sports lottery also aided us by subsiding tyre obstacle, so at least we could all warm Home and on Ops. 50% towards the entry fee. Which we up a bit. By now the white RAF Benevolent greatly appreciated. Fund vests weren’t white anymore. by Cpl Dan O’Boyle

Provost Parade 51 SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT Nijmegen 2012

The time was 2330, kit bag and boots packed, on over the Vierdaagse week. The Dutch and 15 places. TL are admin all squared and MT was waiting hospitality really does draw you back year to hold the minimum outside the house. Just over an hour later I on year. You soon forget about the aches substantive rank arrived at RAF Northolt to meet the transport pains and blisters. I did my first march back of Sgt. which would take me to Holland via the in 1999 with my University Air Sqn and set How much time do cross channel ferry for the 96th Nijmegen out to complete 5 marches in total. But with I need to commit to Marches. the 100th taking place in 2016 maybe I will training? – It is imperative that you train The marches are always held in the third stop at 6. to condition your feet and body and to also week of July and are the largest walking event This year was my fourth full march, but work out the team dynamics. (who fits where in the world with up to 47000 participants. 5th time to Nijmegen, in 2006 I lead a team in the squad regarding pace length etc). It is The first Four Day Marches or Vierdaagse from High Wycombe/Strike Command, but important that your line manager is aware of originated in 1909 from an initiative by the due to the extreme heat on day one 2 civilians the amount of time that needs committing in Dutch Government and Military to improve died of heat exhaustion and the marches the months prior to the qualifier and actual fitness and raise awareness across all ages were cancelled. This is the only time in the marches in July (One afternoon a week or throughout Holland. The first international history of the March other than the two World every other week at least with occasional participants marched in 1928. Successful Wars where this has happened! Marches weekends prior to the qualifier). marchers receive the Four Day Cross which that completed the 1st Day are allowed to Mandatory Weight Regulations, March was originally awarded to the Dutch military wear a commemorative pin on the Four Day regulations stipulate that all male marchers participants and was instigated by Queen Cross medal. born between 1 Jan 63 and 31 Dec 93 are to Wilhelmina in 1909. In 1975 the Marches How far are will you march? 103 miles in carry British military-style webbing/bergens were entered in to the Guinness Book total, in previous years the 3 mile march past ballasted with 10 kgs dead-weight. This of World Records as the world’s biggest was optional, but the Dutch have insisted that weight is not to include water, food or other walking event. you have to include the extra 3 to qualify. consumables but will include the weight of So what are the objectives of the March? Throughout the march days you pass various the webbing/bergen. Dutch march officials The British Military Contingent (BMC) War Memorials. Compliments are paid will carry out periodic weight checks and participation in the Nijmegen Marches is with an eyes left or right then a time is often marchers with less than 10 kg dead-weight sponsored by the Army as a form of military spent for some reflection of the events that will be disqualified. Female marchers are training. It has long been recognized as an occurred to warrant each memorial. A great not to carry this dead-weight. excellent event in which teams have to exhibit Force Development opportunity for the team. So if you think you would be up for a variety of military competencies, including the challenge of training, qualifying and leadership, man-management and teamwork, So what do you need to do to qualify? marching 103 miles next July then keep an together with physical and mental resilience. A number of options are open to the team; eye out on the RAFP scrolling news in the The British Military are rightly held in high new year, as I intend to manage an RAFP esteem by the military staffs of the other The RAF Walking and Road Marching team for the 97th Nijmegen marches in 2013. participating nations and all personnel are Association (RAFWARMA) 2-Day responsible for maintaining this reputation. March held at DCAE Cosford in Apr. by Flt Lt Gav Brockie Tri-Service military personnel participating Entry forms may be obtained at or assisting with the event are classed as www.rafwarma.org.uk or via email being On Duty. to [email protected]. The This year the marches took place on the 17 closing date for entries is in late Mar. to the 20 July, UK registration is completed The Scottish Garelochhead 2-Day on the Sat/Sun prior to the marches, allowing Marches held at Garelochhead teams to acclimatise. Most of the Military Training Camp in May. Entry teams conduct FD activities by visiting forms may be obtained at www. Arnhem and other significant WW2 sites, scottish2daymarches.co.uk or via as you can imagine this part of Holland email to [email protected]. The was the scene of Operation MARKET closing date for entries is the end GARDEN and a large amount of Foreign of Mar. and Commonwealth War Cemeteries are The British Forces Germany located nearby. 2-Day March (BFG) held at Each year a number of NATO members JHQ Rheindahlen in early May. Airborne Memorial. register military teams of all flavours Entry forms may be obtained at normally between 3500 to 5000 personnel www.bfgnet.de/Community/ are accommodated at a temporary Camp nijmegen or via email to bmc.nmco. called Heumensoord just on the outskirts of [email protected]. The closing the town. Out of those numbers the British date for entries is Apr. Military Contingent is given around 1500 When does the application for places. This year numbers were down to Nijmegen need submitting? Initial approx 800 due to Op Olympics adding to entry forms are submitted in March. the enduring Operations elsewhere in the You need to seek HOE/CO’s world. As you can imagine the social aspect approval for messing, travel and of the marches is incredible, every evening entry costs. A team is to consist of the various military teams descend on the at least 11 personnel (male, female or International Military Beer Tent or head out mixed), including the Team Leader Heumensoord. in to Nijmegen town which has a festival (TL). Units may bid for between 11

52 Provost Parade Airborne Memorial.

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TEAM BUILDING DAY AT THE PHOENIX DAMAGE REPAIR INSTRUCTIONAL UNIT The Phoenix Damage Repair and Instructional task ahead and taken into the DRIU for a dry at this point we doggy paddled ferociously Unit, known throughout the Navy as DRIU, run, giving us an indication of what to expect. toward the main leak and worked tirelessly (pronounced ‘drew’) is a mock-up of a Once finished we were then sent back to the to plug it up. Water firing in from every angle flooding ship which rocks and rolls as sailors waiting room for the final time for a quick possible it seemed as though we would not try to plug gaps in the hull using wood. run through of safety drills and a brew before get out alive. We calmed ourselves down, Vital to teaching sailors the art of damage we headed back into the DRIU to embrace Took a deep breath and with our last burst control, the DRIU is responsible for saving what can only be described as an impossible of energy attacked back with vigour. What at least two flooded ships in recent years. task. Man vs Nature in a battle of will. Who felt like a day later we had finally managed Split over three decks, the unit simulates would want it more??? Stepping into the to successfully stop the water. Realising our compartments of a ship with water rushing unknown, fearing for our own safety…. task was complete the instructors turned off in through various holes. Sailors are expected Each man aware of what is expected of him, the water and the level dropped to a bare to stop the inrush of water using blocks of we started to believe, Could we actually do minimum. Alas, completion. The impossible wood and hammers. Key to the success of the this?? Positions assumed and awaiting the had been done. I recall one of the instructors DRIU is its realism, thanks to hydraulics it off. DEADLY SILENCE. BOOOOMMMM, saying ‘They could have done with you on rocks and rolls up to 15 degrees to port and A deafening sound followed up by a muffled the Titanic Shipmate’. He was right, They starboard, simulating the motion of a ship. message coming across the tanoy system. definitely could have. The techniques taught in the simulator meant This was it, Life or death. The teams split With our task complete we proceeded to that sailors were able to save both HMS off into our two groups. My group, TEAM freshen ourselves up and with pride in our Endurance and HMS Nottingham when both AWESOME, ran into the diesel room to stride and our heads held high we made our were close to sinking due to severe flooding. be greeted by a small swimming pool and way back to RAF Henlow branded as #Heros On Thursday 27 September 2012 B Flight, a jet like spray of water from a burst main by Cpl James Bailey 1(T)PS attended a teambuilding day at Whale pipe. No man thinking about his own safety, Island in Portsmouth. Upon arrival we had a we quickly and series of briefs and practical demonstration efficiently plugged of how to use the equipment we would be up the leaks. Not provided with once in the DRIU to repair wanting to be any of the damages we were likely to come defeated and as across.Once the briefs and practical were expected Mother completed we were split into two groups. Nature came back One team of 8 and one of 5. We were then with all she had. given the correct overalls and boots for the Unable to stand

54 Provost Parade SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT Exercise Salient Search Staff Ride to the Belgium World War I Cemeteries Following completion of final The scale of the site brought a poignant administrative checks, passports, visas, reminder to the devastating loss of life. authority to travel and acquisition of Euros, Sgt Stephen Furphy laid a wreath at the the team of seven, Flt Lt Gav Brockie, FS wall where the name of his great uncle, Pte Mark Prestwood, Sgt Stephen Furphy, Sgt Wilfred Furphy, 8th Battalion The King’s Liam McGuire & Sgt Russ Foster from Own Royal Lancaster Regiment, is inscribed, DFCIT, WO Speedy Gonzalez from Cyber and who was killed in action on 26 Sep 1917, Forensics and Cpl Damian Armstrong, HQ at Passchendaele. There then followed a visit RAFP (A6) departed for Folkestone. to Hill 62 and the nearby museum, containing An efficient journey through the Channel an extensive collection of artefacts and the Tunnel, adjust watches (+1 hour) and we site of many of the original trenches used to were heading to our first place of interest, defend the area. Henlow based RAF Police personnel St Omer Airfield where FS Mark Prestwood Day 4’s agenda included a cultural visit to conducted a visit to the World War kicked off the first vignette. The airfield was Bruges, a popular tourist spot with Mediaeval I cemeteries of France and Belgium one of the first to be used by the Royal Flying architecture to enjoy and an abundance of between 30 Apr 12 and 5 May 12. Corps during the early stages of World War chocolate shops. A light luncheon of local The visit was organised by Sgt Liam I, with aircraft a far cry from the current delicacies was consumed, mainly in the form McGuire, DFCIT, having served a three capability of modern air power. The nearby of Pate, Moules and Frites before returning year tour at Supreme Headquarters ‘Souvenir’ Cemetery was then visited. Fairly to Ypres. This gave Cpl Damian Armstrong Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), modest in size, it provided an early taster of the opportunity to show off his driving skills and was well aware of the historical what to expect for the forthcoming few days and he only needed to be reminded once, that significance and cultural benefits of with immaculate tended headstones and well the majority of drivers in Belgium favour the region. maintained grounds. the right hand side of the road! There then The team then headed onwards to Belgium followed a visit to the Menin Gate Memorial, and to SHAPE, which was to be base camp a magnificent structure, unveiled in 1927 for the rest of the visit. A warm welcome was with the names of 54389 missing members afforded to all and a familiarisation sortie of of the British and Empire armies who had the base was conducted. died in the fighting around Ypres. These Day 2 commenced with a visit to the men have no known graves and the names of nearby Mons memorial plaque, erected in which are inscribed on every available space commemoration of the first engagement of on the structure. At 2000 hrs every day, there the BEF during World War I. The afternoon is a formal memorial service and the last was greeted with glorious sunshine and a visit post sounded. This is normally conducted to St Symphorien Cemetery, in resplendent by the Ypres Fire Service, however, visiting settings, immaculately maintained and with a Canadian Forces and Army cadets hosted peaceful calmness surrounding the extensive the parade on this occasion, which was met gardens. This location commemorated with a well observed silence by the crowd of many of the early casualties of the war approx 1000 visitors. and had added significance, as Flt Lt Gav The return journey went without incident Brockie laid a wreath at the grave of his and arrival at the Calais Euro Tunnel terminal Great Grandfather, Cpl W G Last, Royal brought wide eyed excitement and awe to a Irish Regiment, who was killed in action on certain WO, as the automatic number plate 23 Aug 1914, close to the outset. Following recognition system identified the vehicle and this personal reflection, refreshments were names of the passengers, prior to the showing taken in the main square at Mons where WO of passports. A display of the finest modern Gonzalez (after rubbing the famous Brass technology! Monkey of Mons for a bit of luck) gave a It was agreed by all participants that the thorough and informative lecture on the objectives set out prior to the visit were history and background to the causes which met. A wider understanding of the history led to the outbreak of war. and subsequent events of World War I was Day 3 was met with a more traditional gained, along with the embryonic stages of Belgium welcome of grey skies and light Air Power and Expeditionary Ops. Respects drizzle, a theme that was to continue for the were paid by all to the sacrifice and scale of rest of the week. Next on the agenda was a the loss of life, as was clearly seen at the visit to Tyne Cot Cemetery, near Ypres, the cemeteries visited and the many others that location of some of the bloodiest fighting occupy the landscape around Belgium and of World War I. The cemetery is the largest parts of France. British Commonwealth War Grave in the Particular thanks to Sgt Liam McGuire for World, commemorating those who died after organising the visit, the staff of the Training 16 Aug 1917. There are just under 12000 and Development Squadron for their advice, headstones, 8367 inscribed simply ‘Known and those at SHAPE for helping with the unto God’. The main memorial wall bears accommodation and administration. the names of nearly 35000 service personnel, by Sgt Stephen Furphy, whose bodies were never identified. Jun 12

Provost Parade 55 SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT The

15 miles of hard graft in the Challenge name of a bloke in a Top Hat an iron, a silver car, a top hat, a boot, a wheel barrow and a dog. (Really?) 20 Members of the RAF Police, PSF Henlow We all passed each other at numerous and RAF Regt OTF took part of a Unit Force locations as we followed our maps. Development initiative and participated in Memories of mime artists chasing the girls ‘Monopoly Challenge’ in London on 3 May off podiums, arguing that Vine street did 12. (Nothing to do with the Tube & Pub not actually exist and then meeting up as a Challenge by the way). group at the end and admitting that going Our mission was to develop interpersonal into a toy shop and grabbing Big Ben didn’t skills, increase teamwork as well as focusing actually count as being photographed next on the following core competences; solving to the real thing. problems and taking decisions, working In all it was a fantastic day. We were together, exploiting information and exhausted, had learned better navigational knowledge, striving to achieve results and skills, worked great as a team and had a providing the lead. laugh on the way. The fact that we had to We depart from building 143 at 0845 hrs, stalk locals in order to get photos of the dogs travelling and travelled in a MT coach to and all failed to climb the lion in Trafalgar Wellington Barracks, in the city of London. square just added to the enjoyment. Teams and Team leaders were announced on If you want to take part in you own our arrival, in order to negate the Monopoly Monopoly Challenge, call Mr Derek Allen Pros, who may have spent weeks planning in DFCIT, as his team won it again. the best route. The teams were issued with a map, camera, Monopoly card details with Chance cards to be phoned in sporadically during the day. Basically the Teams were to manoeuvre around the monopoly board, taking photographic evidence of 3 members of the team as proof that they have completed the designated square on the board. The use of the tube, buses, taxis, rickshaw, Satellite Navigation systems and GPS were prohibited. All photographs were to be on ground level and had to have no association with the Underground. Later that afternoon the Chance cards were announced: take photos of a boat,

56 Provost Parade SPORT & FORCE DEVELOPMENT

RAF Police Rugby Cpl Wynn Much anticipation greeted the RAF Police’s in and the RAF started to find their feet; the RAF were always threatening to score first fixture of the season against Hampshire forwards charged up the field recycling quick in the second half as Hampshire tired. The Police. With a new set up in place, new ball before enabling Cpl French to release his RAF came close but couldn’t quite convert players and great enthusiasm, nearly 30 back line. The ball moved through the hands after runs by Laird and the OIC, Flt Lt Jono players turned up at MOD Southwick Park of Cpl Jim Bailey and Gittings to release a Colley before Sammut finally scored to put on the Monday evening for a couple of days dancing Weir down the left wing, who beat a the RAF into a winning position despite a training and team bonding before the game. couple of defenders before cutting inside and late try from Hampshire. Cpl Coleman and Sgt Hitchen were on hand timing his pass to release Cpl Dom Williams Cpl Andy Chambers unfortunately greeting everyone on arrival. to beat more defenders before scoring under suffered a serious injury just before half As is often the way in modern sport, the posts. Williams reverted to boy band time; which after being treated on the field players and coaches are scrutinised by mode under the sticks and French dually for an extended period of time led him the media for their comments and Coach added the conversion (surprising to many of to hospital and an appointment with the Coleman’s comments the previous week the team as he had not managed to slot a kick Surgeons. We all wish Andy the best in his whilst on an RAFRU Coaching course were over the previous two days). A good start for recovery and if you are in the Portsmouth picked up upon by the RAF Media. the RAF and perhaps Coach Coleman could area, I’m sure he would appreciate a visit. ‘Head Coach of the RAF Police Team cement his self-acclaimed hero status. The game was played in Great Spirit by commented, “It was a significant test of my Melbourne was next to add to the score two sides who tried to play exciting rugby rugby coaching abilities. Going from zero to sheet after the RAF camped in the Hampshire and credit goes out to a Hampshire team hero in just 5 days is a big ask”’ Big words 22 like Williams and Bailey waiting for a with only a few players on the bench. from the self acclaimed saviour of RAF One Direction audition. A quick penalty A final word of thanks goes out to the Police Rugby ahead of the new season. released Melbourne 10 metres out and he Committee for their superb organisation The first training session was a chance charged over the line taking a few of the in particular Cpl Justin Coleman and Sgt for everyone to size each other up and keep Hampshire players with him on his way. A Phil Hitchen for their excellent hosting at away from Cpl Melbourne, TPS. Watching lapse in concentration and a flowing move Southwick Park. Next fixture is away to the Cpl Adam Gittings attempting to tackle him by Hampshire enabled the visitors to pull a Defence Academy at Shrivenham on 19th was akin to a meerkat being stampeded by try back with the scorer mocking Williams’ December. Even if you don’t fancy a run a heard of wilder beast in the Serengeti. try celebrations. The game ebbed and flowed out in your boots, why not come down to However as the sessions went on a team was as half time approached with both sides find out if the RAF Police team can go two starting to emerge and confidence was rising throwing everything at each other before from two and help Coach Coleman in his ahead of the game. the half time whistle. Another barnstorming quest for hero status. run by Melbourne and one RAF POLICE Vs Hampshire handed off load to Weir Police - MOD Southwick Park enabled the RAF to hit straight back in style. Such was the turnout; we The RAF Police defeated Hampshire were able to field a fresh Police 24-12 at MOD Southwick Park after backline for the second tries from Cpl’s Melbourne, Williams, Weir half. Powerful runs from and Flt Lt Dan Sammut (all TPS) led the team the likes of Atherton, to victory in the first game of the season. Hitchen and Clay meant The rain managed to hold off, the crowd started to swell and the first game of a new and exciting season got underway for RAF Police Rugby. With the Provost Marshall, WO Spark (CASWO) and WO Palfreman all in attendance spectating, the team were keen to impress (rumours that reward for an undefeated season would result in instant promotion for the playing squad have yet to be confirmed at the time of going to press!) A cagey start, with both teams sizing each other up like two silverback gorillas moving in on a troop of females, however 10 minutes

Provost Parade 57 PROVOST PARADE SHOP

RAF Provost Parade Shop Defence College of Policing & Guarding Fareham Hampshire PO17 6EJ Tel No 02392 28 + Ext DTFS 93835

Item Selling Number of Item Selling No of Price Items Price Items Bears (various dress) £25.88 Polo-Shirt £10.65 Blazer Badge £5.69 RAF Wings £1.64 Book (Birds Eye £6.60 Stable Belt £24.29 View) Cloak & Dagger £2.02 Stick Pin (RAFP) £2.37 Badge Cuff-Links (Enamel) £5.81 Sticker (RAFP) £0.50 Cuff-Links (Gilt plate) £11.04 Suit Carrier £5.30 Display Binder £8.20 Thermal Flask £ 8.53 (OoS) Georgian Tankard £26.89 Tie Clip on £2.98 (OoS) Handcuff Key £4.30 Tie RAFP £19.62 Mini Decanter £24.82 Tie Slide £6.30 Mini Mag-Lite £13.12 Tie Tac Crest £2.06 Mug CI £2.88 Tie Tac Dogs £1.64 Mug CSy £2.88 Tie Tac Snowdrop £1.20 Mug FT £2.88 T-Shirt £7.77 Mug SI £2.88 Tymo Lighter £6.16 (OoS) Multi-Tool £9.49 Warrant Card Holder £11.94 Plaque £19.00 Woven Patch QPD £1.90 (OoS) RAFP Sqn Plaque £19.12 MARS BAR Tie Pin £2.30 OoS – Out of Stock

Postage price within UK or BFPO £1.00 on purchases below £10.00 RAF Police Wristband (Please call for postage outside the UK) £2.00 on purchases above £10.00 The RAF Police Wristband costs £2, with Prices are subject to change, please contact Shop Sales Manager for £1 going back into your RAFP Welfare current prices and availability before placing any orders. fund. If you are interested in purchasing a wristband, please contact Flt Lt Dan Shop Sales Manager: FS Mandy Brooks DCPG 4203 Sammut, 1 TPS, on 01462 851515 ext Postal Sales Contact: Cpl Dallinger DCPG 4356 6864, or Mil 95381 6864. (Note: Should OIC: Flt Lt Tom Heinowski DCPG 4787 only be worn in civilian attire).

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