Winter 2015 RAF 100 | THEAVRO |LANCASTER RAF VNAVY W ycombe The Magazine of RAF High ofRAFHigh The Magazine Wycombe World Spring 2018

Find out more about studying for a part-time Law degree LLB (Hons) this autumn and meet current students and . The Part-time LLB (Hons) degree is a four-year law programme, taught through a mixture of distance learning and a weekly evening seminar during term time. We welcome students of all ages and backgrounds, and the course is ideal for those who wish to boost their career or qualify as a solicitor or barrister.

• Evening seminars every • Flexible interest-free Wednesday in term time monthly payment options, • Three terms per year (October- student loans available June), four-year programme • Small-group teaching with • Inclusive fee (£3,600 per personal attention and support annum) covers all study • Networking opportunities with materials and textbooks graduates and local employers

For more information, please visit: www.buckingham.ac.uk/law/llb/law/parttime We look forward to meeting you

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN STUDYING LAW PART-TIME? Do you want to progress your career? Or perhaps create Applications are welcome from people of all educational new opportunities? Or qualify as a solicitor or barrister? backgrounds and ages, including those returning to education Have you considered a law degree by part-time study? after a long absence. Admission to the programme accords significant weight to work experience and ambition. The Part-time law degree at the University of Buckingham (LLB Hons) is a four-year programme that results in the award of a Qualifying There is an Open Evening for those interested in the course, taking Law Degree (QLD) and attracts students of all backgrounds and ages place at the University of Buckingham on Wednesday 9th of May 2018. who wish to boost, or change, their career or qualify as a solicitor or This Open Evening is an opportunity to meet with current students barrister. The programme has proven very popular with residents of and to hear from graduates and those who teach on the course. Full Buckingham and Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas. Pauline details of the Open Evening can be found on the University’s website. Purcell, of Purcell Solicitors in Milton Keynes, is a graduate of the programme and is one of many people who have used the degree as Fees are £3,600 per year and there is an option to pay monthly, interest a springboard to a professional qualification and career change. It is free. There are also non-means tested and age-blind student loans taught through a mixture of distance learning and, during term time, available from Student Finance that cover the whole fees. seminars on Wednesday evenings. At the Wednesday seminars, you will receive guidance and support from enthusiastic staff who are For more information on the Part-time LLB (law degree) at experienced in helping students to develop the analytical and research the University of Buckingham, the Open Evening taking place skills necessary for an understanding of the law. You will study three on the 9th of May 2018 and how to apply to the programme, subjects each year of the programme and receive subject module go to https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/law/llb/law/ packs written by those who teach on the programme, in addition parttime or call Margaret Darrell on 01280 828289 or email to the relevant textbooks. The textbooks are included in the fee. Margaret Darrell at [email protected] The Magazine of RAF Spring 2018

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

on the Station today. It the fact that RAF High serves to inspire too as we Wycombe is this diverse, look forward and begin and that the areas of activity our journey into a new era that inspire our people both in terms of our people continue to be so varied, and our equipment. Full of is a hugely encouraging articles written by people sign for the future. from across all the Station, RAF 100 | THE | RAF V NAVY the magazine showcases Finally, I’d like to thank the some of the fabulous charity, all of the many contributors Editorial Team sporting and community for their hard work, and OIC: Fg Off Adam South Ext 6662 activities that have been members of the editorial and Editor: Cpl Daniel Phillips Ext 4526 taking place, both at home distribution team for making Deputy Editor: WO Claire Old Ext 5251 Mailbox: HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ and further afield. Given the Wycombe World such a mod.gov.uk breadth of that activity a wonderful reflection of what natural question arises. How is great about this Station Distribution Manager: ell, we did it! We can we possibly hope to and the in this Sgt Steven Monks Ext 4527 reached our 100th cover so many things in only most special birthday year. birthday. It gives thirty six pages? The answer Distribution Team W Cpl Julian Frost Ext 3337 me great pleasure to write is that we haven’t attempted There has never been a better Cpl Adrian Catnach Ext 4071 the introduction of this to do so. Instead, the editor time to get involved as we SAC Sebastian Marziano Ext 6311 edition of Wycombe World, has carefully chosen articles continue to build strong which is dedicated to the to represent the diversity and supportive relationships All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format centenary of the Royal Air and the enduring values with our civic partners and with separate JPEG images. Force and all the men and of the Service in this most communities within the local Designer: Holly Daniels women who have served important year. There is area through joint events, Tel: (01536) 526671 over the past 100 years. no doubt that the diverse outreach and, of course, our Email: [email protected] interests of the RAF ‘family’ Station magazine. And so This special edition reflects here at High Wycombe could now, I warmly invite you to Advertising: Tammie Ridler upon rich history and variety have filled this magazine read, enjoy and participate! Tel: (01536) 526667 Email: [email protected] of activity at RAF High several times over, and I Wycombe commemorating regret that we can only Best wishes and I look forward Published by: Lance Publishing Ltd what has gone before and offer a subset of these to celebrating RAF100 with 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, celebrating what is happening perspectives. However, you in the months ahead. Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: (01536) 512624 Fax: (01536) 515481 Email: [email protected] Editor’s Welcome www.lancepublishing.co.uk Printed By: Lance Print Ltd Cpl Daniel Phillips Tel: (01733) 390564 elcome to the first the station (if we haven’t please matches against the Army edition of Wycombe let us know and we will contact and the Royal Navy as well as Submission WWorld for 2018 which you regarding any future articles) many more exciting events. comes with a new look and along with informing you of the Deadline... change of Editor. I am Cpl Daniel many useful courses and events If you are wishing to submit All articles for the SUMMER Phillips and I am the new Editor, that will be happening during an article or you would like to ISSUE 2018 Edition to be I hope you enjoy the new layout the first quarter of the year. submit some photos for the new sent to the Editor no later which includes a picture board picture board, please email HWY- than 3rd May 2018 to HWY- showing activities across the I would like to thank Bob Hickox EditorWycombeWorld@mod. [email protected]. station, if not please let me for another in-depth article gov.uk with your submissions uk. Please send all articles as a know your feedback. I would looking at the history of the by 2 May 18. Submissions word document with all photos like to take this opportunity legendary Lancaster aircraft should be in word or PDF and images imbedded with in to thank the previous Editor, which gives a reminder of our format, with all images included the article. Sophie Sheldon, for her hard historic aircraft in the 100th within the article. Photos work and dedication and I year of the Royal Air Force. should be of high resolution. wish her all the best in her new There are a number of articles post at PJHQ Northwood. in the following issue linked Thank you for reading the editor's to RAF 100, such as the ‘Music foreword and enjoy the magazine. The team and I have hopefully on the Crick’ event being held captured all the sections across locally in , RAF Rugby Cpl Daniel Phillips

WW: 4 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 Contents Spring 2018

6 12

15 17 22 6 RAF 100 17 European Air Group Welcomes New Director 6 Action 4 Youth 20 Picture Board 8 Airplay Youth Offer Launch 28 22 The Avro Lancaster 10 OJAR / SJAR Workshops 26 The Dam Busters with Dan Snow 11 Training Development Flight 28 Taking Football to Africa 12 PEd Flight 31 Clubs & Committees 14 ISW Staff Ride 32 Sports 15 EX Wilderness Eagle

The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander.

WW: 5 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 Proudly Sponsors

‘Music on the Crick’ 8 June 18 Vector-RGB / © Shutterstock Saturday 9 June 2018, brings the and of course there will be the live bands, large fun fair rides RAF High Wycombe Families Day Dog Show and don’t forget for all ages, incl. Dodgems, combined with the Annual Village the amazing stalls and large Station News Station licensed Bar, Hog Roast, Pizza, Fete, starting with the procession fairground rides. Candy Floss and Popcorn. from the Scout hut at 1200hrs, where the Prince and Princess’s If you would like to hold a stall at The evening will end at 2300hrs, will officially open the Fete. the Fete, no matter how big or when there will be a firework small, or if you have any form of Come along to the Naphill display. Please contact us ASAP if you wish entertainment that you would Crick on 8 Jun 18 from to be included in the procession. like to showcase in the arena 1800hrs to see the RAF100 Contact Fg Off A South for please email the Fete Committee ‘Music on the Crick’, fabulous further details. All afternoon the Arena will on [email protected] for host various entertainment, further information. ‘Action 4 Youth’ The Inspiration Programme - Visit to RAF High Wycombe

he 8-9 November held their attention over lunch 2017 saw RAF High which was quickly followed TWycombe host Military by practical teambuilding engagements with the ‘Action exercises in the Gym led by 4 Youth’ Inspiration Programme. the TDF team; this allowed The course is designed to each group of young people broaden the horizons, thinking to explore self-awareness and experience of young in a safe environment. The people in our communities; it final element of the day was aims to make young people with the PEd Flight where aware of how communities and the students learned about society work in order for them physical wellbeing and the to understand their place in it links between relieving stress and reach their potential. through exercise resulting in an improved state of mind. The group of around 30 Naturally this was followed students that visited RAF High by a session where the young Wycombe came from colleges people experienced the kind and academies spread across of robust training service the Aylesbury and Milton personnel enjoy! Keynes areas. Throughout the day they enjoyed exercises Each day received very and challenges that included encouraging feedback from exposure to the Heritage of the students and staff and has RAF High Wycombe and in been held up as the example particular an enjoyable tour of for other Service establishments the Sir Arthur ‘’ Harris to copy. Our thanks go to all room and tunnels led by of the Service and Civilian Mr Brown and Mrs Bedborough. staff at RAF High Wycombe This was followed by an who delivered interesting and understanding of RAF Force stimulating opportunities to Protection, delivered by the these inquisitive and energetic RAF High Wycombe Regiment young people. Flight, where they assimilated some basic training The Station is looking forward before testing their new skills to hosting 4 more groups and accuracy under supervision throughout 2018, if you would in the DCCT. like to help then please contact the Station Training Officer. Problem solving for prizes using time/distance/speed scenarios Flt Lt Davies

WW: 6 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 St Teresa’s School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Jane Draper and Mrs Yasmin Roberts as Joint Head Teachers. We are delighted and privileged to be appointed Joint Head Teachers. Together we have many years teaching experience across the Key Stages at St Teresa’s School and are still very much involved in the teaching and learning.

At St Teresa’s we pride ourselves on our loving ethos, where all children are valued and nurtured to become the best that they can be. Each child is unique and we are committed to lighting the spark so that all our children love learning, overcome challenges, experience success and achieve academically, spiritually, physically, artistically, musically and socially.

We are located in . The size of St Teresa’s is advantageous, staff know every child by name and nobody is overlooked. Our children are taught by enthusiastic and committed teachers and support staff. Through our Steps to Success programme the children are rewarded for resilient and confident attitudes to learning. Many of our parents comment on how St Teresa’s feels like a family.

We offer many extra activities such as individual music lessons; various clubs including craft, music, logical games, Latin and chess; sports clubs, tournaments and matches, as well as a school production and other performance opportunities. We also provide a breakfast club before school and an after school club, which includes supervised homework for our Key Stage Two children. We look forward to welcoming you to St Teresa’s School. Community READING FORCE & BEN CLUB AIRPLAY YOUTH PARTNERSHIP LAUNCH OFFER LAUNCH s RAF High Wycombe BF mascot was on hand for proudly launched the photo opportunities and to AF Airplay youth clubs affect them, to employ and train Avery first Ben Club it show his support. Councilor launched the new Youth qualified youth workers and seemed natural that we were Ian McKinnis attended in his ROffer on the 10th of volunteers who will listen to, selected to launch the pilot capacity of being the Armed March. Staff, children and young and help, children and young Reading Force & Ben Club Forces Covenant Champion for people showcased their talents people to get the support funded by the RAF Benevolent High Council and the wide range of activities they need, to reassure serving Fund which if successful could as the Reading Force scheme available at the juniors, interns parents/carers that their child be rolled out to all Ben Clubs. had received funding from and senior youth clubs. Station will be able to enjoy supervised In my role as Community the AF Covenant to develop Commander, Group Captain activities in a safe environment, Development Officer I am a the scrapbooks. All children Wood was in attendance as especially when they are Reading Force Ambassador and received a free book and was the RAF BF mascot, Ben away and through the above, passionate about the scheme scrapbook and families were Elephant. Airplay is generously reduce stress on RAF families.” as is our Ben Club play worker treated to tea and cakes. There funded across the RAF by Sally Furniss. Reading Force is a will be a prize giving ceremony the RAF Benevolent Fund. Young people showed off their shared reading and scrapbook in six weeks time for all children DJ skills and their amazing activity that helps bring Service who complete their scrapbooks. “The Airplay Youth Support artwork on a wall mural created families closer together and They will receive a certificate, a objectives are: to provide by all group members. Other reinforces closeness with family medal and another free book. quality, innovative youth displays included arts and and friends. Station Commander activities for children and crafts and the Youth club library Group Captain Wood welcomed For more information on Ben young people in RAF curated by Maisie Whitnell RAF families and introduced Club please contact sally. communities, to offer a wider along with some lovely biscuits Hattie and Elaine from Reading [email protected] range of fun, energetic, cultural, decorated by our young Ben Force who explained the educational, creative and Club members. Families also scheme to parents and Ben To pick up a free scrapbook leisure activities to support had the opportunity to try Club members. and a voucher for a free book children and young people to their hand at archery and call into the HIVE on 3 Site, reach full potential, to involve traditional board games. John Kirk gave a resounding visit www.readingforce.org.uk and consult children and young rendition of the Twits by Roald and sign up or check out the people whenever decisions are For more information about Dahl. Ben Elephant, the RAF Reading Force Facebook page. made within the Airplay Youth our Airplay groups email: lisa. Support programme which [email protected]. SPRING IN ACTION Deployment Support RAF High Wycombe’s childcare SPRING RAF High Wycombe Contact details for your settings have had a makeover “A springboard for healthy first Community Support team Community Support Team are: and a rebrand following the steps. Where you can leave your provide a wide range of successful transfer to our children safe in the knowledge deployment support activities OC PMS 01494 494491 partners Action for Children. that they are going to have and resources ranging from OCPSF 01494 494493 Wise Owls is now SPRING fun being equipped with the coffee mornings and bowling to Padre 01494 494469 RAF High Wycombe and practical skills they’ll need as painting ceramics and trips out. SCSO 01494 494471 Medmenham Early Years is now they grow up” We recently visited the Ronald Hive Information Officer SPRING Medmenham. The good Dahl museum which celebrates 01494 497800 news is that it is only the name Contact the life of a very well known Chaplaincy Clerk 01494 494481 that has changed, our amazing SPRING Medmenham on RAF hero. We also supply SSAFA Senior Social Work staff teams will continue to 01628 476419 bespoke deployment packs Practitioner 01494 496737 provide the excellent childcare which can include a Cloud Pet, Community Development that they always did and RAF Contact Huggable Heroes, Pillowcases Officer 01494 496734 High Wycombe will continue to SPRING RAF High Wycombe with love and leisure vouchers SSAFA Out of hours support both settings as usual. on 01494 563881 for families who aren’t local. – 02074639358

WW: 8 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018

THE HIGH STREET GARAGE RISBOROUGH HSG LTD 23 - 25 HIGH STREET PRINCES RISBOROUGH

OJAR / SJAR Servicing and Repairs • MOT Testing

BSW • Air Conditioning • Tracking • Tyres • Exhausts Workshops • Electronic Fault Diagnosis • Valeting Courtest Cars Available he Subject and Subject appraisal workshop - services on production Reporting Officer Suitable for SAC/JNCO who will 10% off of this advert T Appraisal Workshops learn how to complete their have now been updated front page and what should • Fully qualified technicians following changes to the be included in RO narratives. boarding and reporting • Decades of experience system. The attendance of a 05 Apr 18 • Competitive rates Reporting Officer workshop is 11 Jun 18 • Members of the Independent Garage Association, a pre-requisite for anyone who The Good Garage Scheme and the MOT Protect wishes to view a promotion Personnel who wish to be Scheme in association with the AA board or sit on one. The next loaded onto any of the available course dates at RAF above course should visit High Wycombe are as follows: the FD course booking page or contact the Force Call Reporting officer workshop Development section. – Suitable for any personnel who has reporting officer For further information 01844 responsibilities or any regarding the above course SNCOs and above. please contact Sgt Pete 275566 05 Mar 18 Crossland SNCO Management 02 May 18 services PSF 01494 494479. [email protected] www.thehighstreetgarage.co.uk

WW: 10 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 Training Development Flight The RAF insists that we take part in several mandated training courses. These are currently being delivered at the Training Development Flight at RAF High Wycombe. Please see the list below and please book on to a course that is appropriate and convenient to you.

Diversity and Inclusion Courses Module 2 – Error Management (EM) Foundation Trg It is mandated in leaflet When completed, the JPA FS G LAWRENCE EXT 6723 8141 to AP8000 that all competency “Flight Safety | AF Service Personnel below the competency is valid RAF personnel and MoD Error Management Foundation Rthe rank of Air Cdre are for 3 years. This training is Civil Service (MoD CS) Training | Joint” is awarded. to undertake RAF Diversity mandatory and it is a personal complete the Module This award is current for 2 and Inclusion training at responsibility to ensure that 2 – Error Management years then individuals are unit-level and the training training remains valid. There (EM) Foundation Trg. required to complete HFEMCT. is to be recorded on JPA. are no exemptions to the Current training provision training for prior learning Available dates are as follows: is a facilitator-led package or training provided by titled ‘Face it, Fix it’ and another Service or country. 13-Feb-18 15-May-18 18-Sep-18 20-Feb-18 23-May-18 02-Oct-18 The following dates are available: 06-Mar-18 12-Jun-18 16-Oct-18 13-Feb-18 29-May-18 18-Sep-18 20-Mar-18 26-Jun-18 13-Nov-18 20-Feb-18 12-Jun-18 26-Sep-18 03-Apr-18 10-Jul-18 23-Nov-18 28-Feb-18 20-Jun-18 02-Oct-18 17-Apr-18 24-Jul-18 27-Nov-18 06-Mar-18 26-Jun-18 16-Oct-18 25-Apr-18 07-Aug-18 11-Dec-18 14-Mar-18 10-Jul-18 31-Oct-18 01-May-18 04-Sep-18 20-Mar-18 18-Jul-18 13-Nov-18 03-Apr-18 24-Jul-18 21-Nov-18 Human Factors & Error Management Continuation Trg (HFEMCT) It is mandated in leaflet 8141 to Training | Joint”. If the 2 17-Apr-18 07-Aug-18 27-Nov-18 AP8000 that all RAF personnel year currency has elapsed, 25-Apr-18 15-Aug-18 11-Dec-18 and MoD Civil Service (MoD personnel are not required to CS) are to complete HF & EM attend a further Foundation 01-May-18 21-Aug-18 13-Dec-18 continuation training. session, but are to attend the earliest available Facilitation 15-May-18 04-Sep-18 Facilitation sessions gain the session. This will reinvigorate JPA competency “Flight Safety the 2-year currency training All these courses including Pages/HWYWantToBook. | Human Factors Continuation iaw MAA RA1440(2). further details can be booked aspx on the Home – Today via the; I Would Like to Book... page or via the Force Available dates are as follows: (MT, Accommodation, Courses Development website (RAF etc) or via the following URL: High Wycombe > Admin Wing 08-Feb-18 17-May-18 06-Sep-18 http://authdefenceintranet. > Force Development) or via 15-Feb-18 30-May-18 12-Sep-18 diif.r.mil.uk/Organisations/ the following URL: http:// Orgs/RAF/Organisations/ cui5-uk.diif.r.mil.uk/r/101/ 22-Feb-18 05-Jun-18 20-Sep-18 Locations/HighWycombe/ ForceDev/default.aspx 22-Mar-18 14-Jun-18 04-Oct-18 Human Factors Training 28-Mar-18 28-Jun-18 11-Oct-18 FS G LAWRENCE EXT 6723 05-Apr-18 04-Jul-18 18-Oct-18

Module 1 - Human Factors (HF) Foundation Trg 12-Apr-18 12-Jul-18 01-Nov-18 19-Apr-18 26-Jul-18 07-Nov-18 It is mandated in leaflet 8141 to When completed, the JPA AP8000 that all RAF personnel competency “Flight Safety | 03-May-18 09-Aug-18 29-Nov-18 and MoD Civil Service (MoD CS) Human Factors Foundation are to complete Human Factors Training | Joint” is awarded. 09-May-18 22-Aug-18 (HF) Foundation training. (This currency is for Life) All these courses including Pages/HWYWantToBook. Available dates are as follows: further details can be booked aspx on the Home – Today via the I Would Like to Book... page or via the Force 28-Feb-18 20-Jun-18 26-Sep-18 (MT, Accommodation, Courses Development website (RAF 14-Mar-18 18-Jul-18 31-Oct-18 etc) or via the following URL: High Wycombe > Admin Wing http://authdefenceintranet. > Force Development) or via 23-May-18 15-Aug-18 13-Dec-18 diif.r.mil.uk/Organisations/ the following URL: http:// Orgs/RAF/Organisations/ cui5-uk.diif.r.mil.uk/r/101/ 29-May-18 21-Aug-18 Locations/HighWycombe/ ForceDev/default.aspx

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 11 PEd Flight Welcome to the Physical Education Flight at RAF High Wycombe.

ur friendly and at 1200. Come down and have the opportunity to play performed refereeing roles professional Team a go at any of the classes, no basketball, short tennis, table throughout the competition. Ois made up of: booking or sign in is required! tennis, badminton, unihoc The two day final will take and 5-a-side football. We also place at RAF Cosford during Sgt Danny Batson We also offer sections their have a weights area that has April 18 celebrating RAF 100. Cpl Hugh Smith own PT opportunities, numerous resistance machines Cpl Rhys Hollyman nutritional and lifestyle and squat rack amongst a Aircrew Conditioning Cpl – Waiting for a keen new advice, along with personal host of other equipment. Programme (ACP): staff member to arrive! development training steered RAF High Wycombe are one Mrs Chris Hardy to the departments needs. The PEd team are always of only a few non-operational Outside of the gym we utilise available to answer any stations to carry out the And a whole host of our skills to put together questions and share their ACP. This programme was activity instructors. enjoyable and rewarding team expertise regarding anything made available to all aircrew building events, facilitation health, fitness and lifestyle. through the PEd Flight and What we offer days and force development. We welcome all comments is standard practice within Our aim is to provide If you’re returning from and opportunities from the the RAF across all operational opportunities for the service injury or nervous about your Walter’s Ash community units. The ACP incorporates a community and their upcoming RAFFT then take and surrounding areas. series of structured exercises dependants to achieve their advantage of the Directed designed to enhance aircrew health and fitness goals. Reconditioning Training So what have we done? performance by reducing Our classes are open to all Programme (DRTP) sessions. fatigue and strain injuries, abilities and are delivered These sessions are delivered by Resilience Games: specifically to the neck. by the enthusiastic and a PTI twice a week. For service This competition series was The programme involves knowledgeable PEd staff. personnel we offer and carry aimed to test individuals instruction in a variety of Lunchtime circuit training are out a variety of things such and teams of mixed abilities exercises enabling aircrew from Mondays to Thursdays as Adventurous Training, Role across a number of workouts. to continue the programme at 1215-1300 offering a Related Swim Test and RAFFT. The games consisted of 4 independently and is a variety of exercise like tabata, regional competitions with preventative strategy to be functional movement and core We have fantastic facilities competitors progressing to delivered to aircrew holding strength. CrossFit incorporates to utilise such as a bespoke the final. RAF High Wycombe a full medical flying category metabolic conditioning, barbell CrossFit area which includes 3 hosted one of the four regional with no current injury. movements and bodyweight Olympic lifting platforms. There events which attracted a work to provide a fantastic is a variety of cardiovascular large and diverse number of Girls on a Mission: training method for all ages equipment such as treadmills, participants and spectators. To try and promote a healthier and abilities. These classes are rowing machines, watt bike, The day was a huge success. lifestyle, Bucks County Council available on Tuesday at 0700, ski erg and assault bike. To foster team development, introduced a scheme in 2014 Wednesday at 1600 and Friday Our sports hall gives you ethos and integrity participants called ‘Girls on a Mission’ which

WW: 12 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 was aimed at helping girls Row for Rob Charity Event: ISTAR Training Day: 2018 CO’s Cup Events: aged 16 -24 become more On 15 Mar 17 the PEd Flt and A team building and Ashridge Estate Walk positive about physical activity, 22Trg Gp PEd staff, attempted facilitation day for the (Wed 21 Feb) build self-confidence and make to complete the arduous ISTAR team incorporating It’s A Knock Out (Tue 24 Apr) new friends. The PEd Flight at challenge of a 210116km row, leadership and followership Danesfield (Wed 13 Jun) RAF High Wycombe provided a raising money for the Barbara tasks held within the grounds Orienteering (Wed 19 Sep) six-week programme designed Bus Fund. The event was in of Hughenden Manor. Endurance Challenge to give the girls exposure to aid of our fellow PTI, Cpl Rob (Wed 17 Oct) a variety of fitness sessions, Bugden, who suffered severe 2017 CO’s Cup Events: Christmas Quiz (Wed 12 Dec) health based discussions spinal injuries in a parachute Heritage Walk from Please enter your teams or and team building events, accident on 21 Jan 16 (the Medmenham to Hughenden come alone as an individual, aimed at helping them to date signifies the distance Manor involving team everyone is welcome. lead a healthier lifestyle. of the row). The Barbara challenges at checkpoints The girls gained a variety of Bus Foundation has been throughout the course. RAF 100: new skills, which they can paramount in supporting Tug of War (Wed 11 Jul) take away with them and Rob’s recovery. Throughout Combined RAF Halton & develop; and gaining a AQA the month of March, teams of RAF High Wycombe Sports Health & Wellbeing Day certificate of achievement Physical Training Instructors Day involving a variety from their attendance. (PTIs) from across the RAF of potted sports and old Girls on a Mission completed the challenge school sporting activities. Health & Wellbeing Day: whilst raising as much money A fantastic fun event that Action for Youth The aim was to raise awareness as possible. We raised a total will be repeated in 2018 and understanding of different of £1,500, which was added so get your team ready! Sports – We support a health-based subjects and to the grand total of £32,863 whole host of sports here to signpost individuals to a raised on the Just Giving page. The RAF Water sports Centre so get in touch if you want variety of different agencies (Danesfield) hosted the to get involved or start your relating to personal wellbeing. Disability Awareness Day: Station Water Sports Event own team. At the moment The mixture of static displays On 5 Dec 17, the PEd Flight put involving a variety of water we have Football, Golf, and presentations clearly together an adapted circuit based challenges in a number Angling, Tug of War, Road appeared to capture the for personnel at RAF High of crafts that lead to much Marching, Equestrian, Ten interest of High Wycombe Wycombe. The circuit comprised laughing and fun in an Pin Bowling, Badminton, personnel, as a steady stream of adapted exercises and sports unfamiliar environment. Running, Orienteering, of people mingled and chatted that highlights the challenges Hockey, Judo, Rowing, to the different agencies and barriers that individuals What do we have planned? Rugby, Squash, Tennis, offering their services. Watch face on a daily basis. Regardless Sub Aqua, Swimming, out for a similar event in 2018 of ability there are always Open your diaries and pencil Triathlon, Winter Sports for the whole community. ways to stay fit and healthy. in the following dates: and many more.

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 13 he team met, bleary- that underlined the German eyed, at 5am when we efficiency, but also their ISW STAFF RIDE Ttravelled to Portsmouth ruthless brutality; the tunnel to board the slowest ferry was dug by ‘untermenschen’ known to man. Ten hours – or sub-human slave labour. and some retching later – we After the hours navigating the complex set of tunnels we ISW TO JERSEY disembarked at St. Helier, the capital of Jersey. received a brief on the civilian On 8 November, ten staff from Information Systems Wing impact of the occupation. It (ISW) travelled from RAF High Wycombe to St. Helier, Thursday started with a hearty was interesting to hear of the Jersey for a staff ride to better understand the part Jersey breakfast, to fuel what turned zero tolerance policy practised and its population played in the Second . out to be a rather wet and by the occupying forces. Many blustery visit to Corbiere were imprisoned for minor lighthouse. This rocky outcrop indiscretions, such as owning is overlooked by one of the a radio or not notifying the many heavy gun emplacements Germans of owning livestock. built to protect the island Some were shipped off to following the the prison camps of Eastern by the British. What followed Europe, to never be seen again. was a brief on the importance of the island and the When we returned from the fortification of the island in visit, we were given some preparation for a British attack well-deserved down time. that never materialised. We then moved on to St. Aubin Sunday was dominated by the where we had lunch, dried off Remembrance Day service then walked into the harbour at St. Lukes Church. In an where a stand was delivered interesting coincidence, the about Hitler’s fixation on the church is ministered by Gp island and how toxic leadership Capt (Retired) Nick Barry who can scupper military progress. was an RAF Padre. His sermon was poignant, touching on Friday consisted of seeing the the loss of life in the Great War sights of St Helier, focusing and likening it to the losses in on Liberation Square, the Afghanistan, where he served Pomme D’or Hotel, the SS at Camp Bastion as the Padre. Vega memorial and the Royal After the laying of the wreath Square. These locations are key by OC ISW, and observation to understanding the events of the silence for the fallen, of the last few months of the we were invited back into the occupation of Jersey, especially church for tea and cake. As the part that the Red Cross aspiring recruitment staff we played in delivering much engaged with the local Scouts, needed relief to a malnourished although their employment population. Shortly after, the preferences seemed to be Germans surrendered the the RN or SAS! After warm island to the Allies, to the thanks from the Minister and great relief of the islanders. remaining congregation, Stands were delivered by we returned to the hotel. the team detailing the part played by the Red Cross and That afternoon we met with the liberation of the island. Richard and Dawn Woodhouse MBE, who run the charity On that evening, we were ‘Holidays for Heroes’. This invited to the house of the organisation arranges for Lieutenant Governor of Jersey, servicemen and women who ACM (Ret’d) Sir Stephen Dalton, need respite for any reason prior to his invite for us to to holiday in Jersey. One of watch the Jersey Reds rugby our Wing has been a grateful match. We were well received beneficiary of their services by Sir Stephen and Lady recently, so we met to give our Dalton, and all felt honoured thanks to them for their hard to be representing the RAF work and to present them with and ISW RAF High Wycombe an RAF High Wycombe Plaque. at both engagements. On the Monday the return Saturday was another day of was far less tedious; we inclement weather, but we embarked on a catamaran were going to be out of the that took less than half the rain for a visit to the Jersey time of the glacial ferry! Tired War Tunnels. These were built but enriched by the staff ride, during the occupation to the whole group agreed that withstand Allied attack and this trip was entertaining, operate a Field Hospital safely informative and invigorated from. This was a fascinating site the team cohesion within ISW.

WW: 14 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 EX WILDERNESS EAGLE LAST YEAR, I PARTICIPATED IN WILDERNESS EAGLE, ONE OF THE EXCELLENT EAGLE FORCE DEVELOPMENT (FD) ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE TO RAF SERVICE PERSONNEL OF ALL RANKS.

Wg Cdr Farid Khan

his Eagle involved an 80 making chocolate flatbread, the essentials of food, fire and make a good stab at surviving km canoe paddle and or getting through white shelter exercised prioritisation, ‘up that proverbial creek without Tbushcraft over 6 days & water sections dry is entirely teamwork, leading and following, a paddle’. In my time in the RAF 5 nights along the Hårkan river underrated. Never has porridge and working smarter not harder. Engineering Branch, I’ve had in Northern Sweden, stopping with nettle tea tasted sweeter! Each day saw an improvement to call upon similar skills living off each night to set up camp, in our setup, and more and operating out of a derelict make fire, cook fish caught FD offers a number of obvious invention in our culinary skills. building in Kosovo, a tent in along the way, whittle tools, and benefits - downtime and a Oman, a basha in Khost, and practise some artistic shelter chance to recharge batteries, The bushcraft element is not in the field in Mozambique.

© Shutterstock / Antikwar© Shutterstock building without a RAF Regiment trying something new, stepping simply a nod to the latest ‘reality instructor dishing out press- outside one’s comfort zone, TV’ fad. It is entirely relevant I’ve been fortunate to take ups for any not meeting the gathering dits to be recounted to what we do and where we part in a variety of FD activities ‘warry enough’ standard. That in old age, or simply having a might be expected to operate. throughout my Service career. said, the chief instructor, being right hoot! Wilderness Eagle The emphasis on good personal Whilst it is easy to put a million an ex RAF PEdO did his best to offered all of this in spades. But administration is because it is things ahead of FD, there are keep us thoroughly active, and it offered skills for the workspace key to group success - getting it also a million opportunities lost if I most certainly did profit from too. The 80km river trek tested right means becoming an asset that initial application is put off. the best quality sleep in ages. management and group and not a burden to the group. dynamics. Recce’ing rapids before The same bushcraft demands Sure, Wilderness Eagle is very A week of camping out in deciding whether to paddle, of camp administration and different to others I have been the bondoo enjoyable? Hell portage or line the canoes equipment care are directly on. However, for a challenging yeah! The thrill of lighting a fire called for risk assessment and applicable to other environments activity set in stunning scenery using birch bark and a striker, management taking into account too. Foraging is all about having with a genuine reason for catching and gutting Perch the skillsbase of the group and the right attitude. It cultivates not switching on the work then cooking it with herbs and the consequences of tipping robustness, resourcefulness and phone (no signal ☺), this fruit foraged from the woods, over on Day One! Addressing the confidence that one could one takes some beating.

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n the 17th January The position of Director rotates the new Director, Lieutenant air forces, which is chaired 2018, Air General between the Chiefs of Staff of General Vecciarelli emphasized by the Director. The EAG OJavier Salto, the Chief the EAG air forces every two that for twenty years now, is extensively networked of Staff of the Spanish Air years. The Chief of Staff of the the EAG has been playing and cooperates with a Force, handed over the Spanish Air Force has been the a vital role in promoting number of other nations and position of Director of the Director since January 2016, closer military cooperation multinational organizations European Air Group to beginning with Air General and moving interoperability to generate tangible Lieutenant General Enzo Arnaiz, who handed over initiatives forward amongst its results at the tactical and Vecciarelli, the Chief of Staff to Air General Salto in April members and he expressed his operational levels, which are of the Italian Air Force. The 2017. During the ceremony, ambition to further develop of direct and lasting benefit handover ceremony took Air General Salto highlighted the support for the EAG at the to the participants. place in the European Air the substantial progress strategic and political level. Group headquarters at Royal that the EAG is making in Lieutenant General Vecciarelli Air Force High Wycombe in the airpower domain and The European Air Group becomes Director at a time the UK and was attended expressed his thanks to the air comprises the air forces of when the Group is engaged by delegations from Italy forces’ representatives and the its seven member nations: in many projects across and Spain, defence and air Permanent Staff for their work. Belgium, France, Germany, four principal domains: Air attaches from a number of He reserved special thanks to Italy, the Netherlands, Spain Operations, Communication European Air Group nations the former Deputy Director, and the UK. The Group’s Information Systems/ and the headquarters’ Brigadier General Giacomo mission is to provide solutions Cyber, Force Protection Permanent Staff. This De Ponti, for his work and the for interoperability between and Logistics, and has ceremony was particularly current Deputy Director, Air its member air forces, so that recently embarked on a new significant, as it took place Commodore Robert Adang, they are able to operate as Combined Air Interoperability during a year when the under whose tenure the EAG one across the spectrum of Programme, which aims to European Air Group – or has embarked on new project conflict. It operates under address the future challenges EAG – as a seven-nation areas including the keynote the direction of a Steering posed by operating organization will celebrate Combined Air Interoperability Group composed of the Air combinations of 4th and 5th its 20th anniversary. Programme. On becoming Chiefs of the seven member generation air systems.

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Danesfield Sports Centre

EAG handover

Taking Football to Africa Airmen on the river at Danesfield Sports Centre EAG Group Photo

Member of the Snowboarding Team Practising

JFAC’s Honours and Awards presented Tug of War by Air Commodore Attridge

Wg Cdr Robson Cheering on the Tug of War Team © Shutterstock / RtStudio© Shutterstock ISW Jersey Staff Ride

WW: 20 WYCOMBEWYCOMBE WORLDWORLD SPRINGSPRING 20182018 Members of the Action 4 Youth Group and High Wycombe Personnel

Manning’s Annual Panto Seeing in the New Year Together at the WO & Sgt’s Mess

New Year’s Eve Party at the WO & Sgt’s Mess

Winter on the Front Gate at 1 Site Guests Celebrating the Old and New at the New Year’s Eve Party at the WO & Sgt’s Mess

Celebrating with the Girls

Band from New Year’s Eve Party at the WO & Sgt’s Mess

Solo spot during the 2017 WO & Sgt’s Mess Christmas Ball

Relaxing and Enjoying the Atmosphere at the WO & Sgts Mess New Year’s Eve Party Smile Here Comes 2018 at the New Year Eve Party

Solo spot during the 2017 WO & Sgt’s Mess Christmas Ball Decorating WO & Sgt’s Mess for the Christmas Ball Capturing Lasting Moments with Friends WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 at the WO & Sgt’s Mess Christmas Ball WW: 21 THE AVRO LANCASTER A CRITICAL HISTORY By Robert Hickox

Historian rguably one of the best heavy bombers of the ASecond World War, the Lancaster evolved from the twin-engined Manchester whose Rolls Royce Vulture engines were unreliable, although the wings and fuselage were of good design and strong. It was therefore decided to retain the wings and fuselage in a stretched version with four Merlin engines that were powerful and reliable. This was an excellent combination, so that the Lancaster could carry a heavy bomb-load over a long distance at a reasonable speed and, if caught by German night fighters or searchlights, could dive and climb in a corkscrew fashion due to its structural strength to try and throw off these unwelcome visitors.

However, the Lancaster’s main weakness was poor defensive armament. Despite Bomber AVRO LANCASTER Command having had first-hand experience of German tactics, the Lancaster had an attack in the dark. No significant The removal of the ventral turret the bombers virtually defenseless no real optimisation for the night analysis about likely threats or that had been mounted on the during the most intense phase of bombing role. Even though the lessons learned about night- Manchester in favour of the the night bombing of Germany primary threat from night fighters fighting were incorporated into radar installation was made with from June 1943 to July 1944. was almost certain to come from the Lancaster’s design, although little concern for the impact on behind or below, two-thirds of the individual squadrons sometimes bomber survivability that is, the More Lancasters were shot down Lancaster’s defensive armament tried to overcome the lack of ventral provision of a ventral defensive from below than from any other was oriented towards the forward defensive armament in an ad hoc turret to defend against attacks quarter, and this weakness was and upper arcs which, in the fashion in an attempt to deter from below. The continued use of never adequately addressed. dark, would be most unlikely the German night fighters, which 0.303in. machine As the other directions of attack due to lack of would soon learn to ruthlessly guns for self- More Lancasters were heavy bombers visibility and high closing speeds, exploit this blind spot from below. defense, when shot down from below than including the which would be almost suicidal This equally applied to the Halifax the twin-engined from any other quarter Halifax, and in directions from which to make and Stirling heavy bombers. German night lesser numbers fighters were already known to the Stirling, also lacked ventral be using 20mm cannon, was a defensive armament, the fact that glaring design flaw in an otherwise so many bomber crew lost their well-built aircraft. Each 20mm HE-M lives on operations bears witness to round had three times the blast this fatal weakness. Many hundreds, effect of a standard HE round and probably thousands of aircrew, a two-second burst or just 18-20 who would have otherwise stood hits from these could bring down a better chance of survival, lost a Lancaster. The later incorporation their lives in this way. There was a of “Schrage Musik”, two 20mm complete failure to make realistic cannon set at an upward angle, operational assessments in the allowed the German night fighters critical early days of the Lancaster to format below the bomber programme. Not enough effort unseen and then blast away with was put into defensive measures their two 20mm cannon, usually and night navigation until the setting the bomber on fire or the failure of the night bomber wing would explode. Together became a real possibility with SN-2 air-to-air radar in the due to unsustainable losses. twin-engined night fighters and the RAF’s failure to realize the It has been stated with hindsight capabilities of both more than that aircraft coming up from below eight months after the night would not be very visible having fighters began using them, left their exhaust flames shrouded.

WW: 22 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 victory than a destructive one, as industrial production in those areas inundated was soon able to resume. However, the raid helped to lift the morale of British civilians at a crucial point in the war.

The first RAF squadron to convert to the Lancaster was No. 44 Squadron RAF in early 1942. Lancasters flew 156,000 sorties and dropped 608,612 long tons (618,378 tonnes) of bombs between 1942 and 1945. Just 35 Lancasters completed more than 100 successful operations each, and 3,249 were lost in action. The most successful survivor completed 139 operations, and was scrapped in 1947.

JUNKERS JU.88 At the end of 1942, there were nine squadrons of 150 Bf 110s and 36 Dornier Do.215/217s used However they would be more The Lancaster B Mk.II was to its bomb bay and bomb doors. as night fighters. In June 1943 visible in plan form than those manufactured with Bristol Hercules It was the only British bomber that during bombing raids on the Ruhr approaching from the rear, where radial engines due to a seemingly could carry this enormous bomb. industrial area which was very the rear gunner would only have imminent shortage of Merlin heavily defended with anti-aircraft a frontal view of the attacking engines Trials were successful, so The Lancaster was also used in the guns, the Nachtjagd (Night Fighter fighter. He would probably only be that 300 B Mk.II Hercules-engined Dams Raid where their bomb-bays Force) destroyed one third of able to look down at a 45 degree Lancasters were manufactured by had to be modified to carry the ’s frontline angle and could not see anything Armstrong Whitworth. These were cylindrically-shaped bomb which strength, 1600 aircrew were killed approaching from fitted with a had to be spun up before dropping or became prisoners and only 8 below at a greater There was a complete Frazer Nash from a certain height, speed, and Bf.110s were lost in combat with 10 angle. A ventral failure to make realistic type ventral distance from the dam. The reverse to other causes. This was a 30:1 ratio gunner would have operational assessments turret as spin on the cylindrical bomb would in Germany’s favour. A substantial a downward view. in the critical early days of “ H” was enable it to bounce on the water number of these night fighters had He might see the the Lancaster programme the primary surface a number of times and received “Schrage Musik” armament glow from luminous navigation/ induce it to sink downwards when and SN-2 Lichtenstein radar in cockpit instruments and the fighter blind bombing aid. Thus H2S it hit the dam wall, where a water- Sept 1943, greatly increasing their might be silhouetted against light was not carried leaving space for pressure trigger would set it off at a lethality. At such a rate morale in from the ground such as bombing the ventral turret, which greatly certain depth. In this way, the two Bomber Command would break fires. On balance, I consider that the reduced this mark of Lancaster’s conventionally built wall-type dams long before that of German civilians. work needed to add a ventral ball vulnerability to German fighters were breached, the Mohne and the turret to Lancasters would have equipped with ”Schrage Musik” Eder, with the resulting destructive A very destructive raid on Lubeck, been worthwhile, for even the upward firing cannon. But no more flood and disruption to German where much of the building stock presence of defensive armament Lancasters were thus equipped industrial production downstream was of wooden construction would discourage night fighters as the shortage of Merlin engines from the breached dams. and burned readily, preceded attacking from below unseen, did not transpire. An advantage Unfortunately a camp of foreign an attack on Hamburg in July and therefore saving lives. of the Hercules air-cooled engine slave workers was engulfed with 1943. Lancasters took part in this was its ability to withstand flak high loss of life, and the damage destructive raid when the initial use It should have been possible that, damage, while the liquid-cooled to industry from the flood not as of “window”, short strips of tinfoil in a time of war, the American Merlins lost their coolant if hit and great as hoped, although rebuilding designed to mimic the wavelength Sperry ball turret, as fitted to their frequently caught fire. However the and increasing the defence of the of the German radar to give false 8th Army Air Force B-17 bombers, maximum ceiling of the Hercules- dams took much manpower away indications and thoroughly mislead could have been built under engined Lancasters with a full from other projects. Although the defending night fighters. Thus licence in this country and retro- bomb load was less than with the roughly half the attacking crews the bombers were able to make fitted to all Lancasters as they came Merlin. Therefore, after a limited were shot down and killed, the two nights of unopposed raids on up for major engineering checks production run, Merlins were again mission was more of a propaganda the city. It was a hot summer with with, at the same time, removal adopted. It was considered that the of the nose and dorsal turrets to H2S look-down radar to improve save weight, and their positions navigation was more important faired over. Crew members could than the Frazer Nash ventral turret, have been reduced by two, which which the crews would have would also have saved lives. The much preferred. But their concerns ball turret could have been fairly were not taken into account. easily accommodated between fuselage sections. Unfortunately, The Lancaster could carry the those in command wanted the 4,000 lb “Cookie”, the 12,000 H2S radar scanner in that position lb “”, and the 22,000 lb instead. The crews would have “” bomb which could much preferred the ball turret to demolish bridges and viaducts by defend them from below, with its shock wave. To carry this very 20mm cannon in the ball turret large bomb, which was only used “SCHRAGE MUSIK” and the tail gun, to match the towards the end of the war, the – upward inclined cannon of German Night Fighter German night fighter armament. Lancaster needed a modification

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 23 service from the new (Heathrow) Airport in 1946 for B.S.A.A. (British South American Airways), whose managing director was Air Vice Marshal , the creator of the Pathfinders. Other developments were the York, a square-bodied transport and cargo aircraft and, via the Lincoln, the Shackleton, which continued in airborne early warning and maritime patrol service up to 1992.

AVM Harris has tended to emphasize the importance of the destructive capabilities of the Lancaster to the detriment of other considerations such as crew protection. Thus a ventral gun turret was not considered as important as a radar which could pick out coastlines, rivers and built up areas through cloud and the darkness, despite the Main Bomber Force being able to rely on flares everything tinder dry. As a result, the bomber stream did not follow RAF Lancasters also dropped food dropped by the elite Pathfinder a firestorm was created in the city an indirect route to confuse the into the Holland region of the Force to mark the target from centre, which sucked in oxygen defending fighters as to the target, occupied Netherlands, which had 1943 onwards, and despite the as a high wind and temperatures but flew straight to it. There was been by-passed by the allied armies wishes on the crews for a ventral rose to destructive levels. Many a full moon which increased to feed people who were in danger gun turret. Thus losses were much thousands were killed by the fires visibility of the bombers to the of starvation towards the end of greater than they need to have and in shelters, where the depleted night fighters. The signal the war. 20,000 Dutch civilians had been. This is my conclusion from oxygen levels meant they died service identified radio and H2S already died of starvation and the what I have said above and there unknowingly from breathing in radar emissions while the raid was Germans there could do nothing are those who may dispute this. carbon monoxide. The central still over England which gave the to alleviate this situation as they But it seems to me to follow on area of Hamburg was completely Nachtjagd plenty of advanced were short of food themselves. The from what I have read and written. destroyed. If other German cities warning. The defending fighters aircraft involved were from 1, 3, could have been so devastated, the were waiting for them and were and 8 Groups, and consisted of 145 Obviously Harris’ primary mission Germans would have been obliged able to shoot down the greatest Mosquitos and 3,156 Lancasters, was to destroy the German war to surrender, according to Albert proportion of bombers to the total flying between them a total of machine at its source so that Speer, Minister for Production, force in the entire night bombing 3,298 sorties. Without these food maximum bomb load was of the as the state infrastructure for war, 95 bombers, 64 of which supply flights, thousands more greatest importance. With more the production and distribution were Lancasters, out of a total of would have died from starvation. planning for the design of a night of goods and services would 795, 12% of the bomber when first conceived, have been destroyed. raiding force. A total of 6924 Lancasters A total it would appear to me that this Even worse, most were built between Oct of 6924 destruction could have been Unfortunately, the Germans were of the raid missed 1941 and May 1945 Lancasters achieved with the incorporation of excellent at finding solutions Nuremburg were built better crew defence and protection. to British efforts to confuse completely and inflicted only token between Oct 1941 and May Also, in the last year of the war, their radars, and electronic damage. Further losses in April 1945 of which 3249 were lost in Harris could have replaced his countermeasures were rapidly put 1944 amounted to 112 Lancasters. action and 1005 in training or heavy bomber force with the Light in place to negate this confusion, non-combat accidents. A total of Night Striking Force composed and such unopposed raids were In 1944 a series of Lancaster attacks 58% were therefore destroyed, of De Havilland Mosquitos which no longer possible. An electronic using “Tallboy” bombs against the highest percentage loss of any could fly faster than the defending countermeasures race to negate the German battleship Tirpitz, RAF aircraft. Lancaster production fighters but with a lesser bomb each other’s electronic advantage first disabled and later sank the represented 12 % of the UK’s load, and thus save lives. Instead he went on until the end of the war ship whilst it was sheltering in a military expenditure. Unfortunately, chose to retain his heavy bomber with no clear outright winner. Norwegian fjord. Due to a delay Lancasters proved unable to inflict force. Despite this, the brave heavy in relaying the information of sufficient damage on Germany bomber crews battled on night Other raids included that on bombing raid to the nearest to be a decisive war winner, after night against the odds, which Peenemunde, the rocket research fighter airfield, all the Lancasters and approx.25,000 aircrew died were stacked against them on and development facility, which bombed the ship which turned between mid-1942 and mid-1944 surviving a tour of 30 operations. was partially successful, although over trapping many sailors, and on Lancasters and another 25,000 a number of bombers were shot departed without loss before on other bombers, the Luftwaffe down. Many workers on the any of the fighters turned up. shooting down at least half the CREDITS: project were killed. But how much Their delay may not have been bombers built each month. German Night Fighter Aces of it delayed the development of this an accident as the German radar World War 2 – Jerry Scutts (Osprey) potent weapon is difficult to say, as operator, the first to see the A development of the Lancaster Bf 110 vs Lancaster 1942-45 - many of the top scientists escaped approach of the bombers from was the Avro Lincoln bomber, Robert Forczyk (Osprey) injury and any research facilities inland, may have been against the initially known as the Lancaster Le Fana de L’Aviation – Les damaged could soon be repaired. Nazi regime and have delayed his IV and Lancaster V. These two raids de la RAF sur Berlin en report to the defending fighter marks became the Lincoln B1 1943-44: Patrick Facon Certain raids, such as that on airfield on purpose. Anyway, and B2 respectively. A civilian Wikipedia (Google) Nuremburg at the end of March for the bombers, it was a lucky airliner based on the Lancaster, 1944, went badly wrong when escape from the fighters. the Lancastrian, initiated airline BOB HICKOX

WW: 24 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018

Charity Photo: RAF Benevolent Fund RAF Benevolent Photo:

AA GalaGala ScreeningScreening onon thethe 75th75th AnniversaryAnniversary withwith DanDan Snow:Snow: The Dam Busters film screening will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the daring raid. e one of the first audiences to Guy the RAF’s leading welfare charity be an unforgettable night of Bto see the newly restored Gibson and his comrades in and guardian of the Bomber commemoration and nostalgia.” Dam Busters film in amazing the legendary 617 Squadron. Command Memorial in Green 4K definition at a special gala Park, London. The Memorial The gala event will culminate screening on the anniversary Guests will include family stands in remembrance to the in the screening of Michael of the RAF’s most daring raid. members of the Dam Busters 55,573 members of Bomber Anderson’s 1955 film, crew, former members of Command who were lost during starring Sir Michael Redgrave Historian Dan Snow will host 617 Squadron, renowned the Second World War, including and Richard Todd. the gala evening at London’s historian Paul Beaver, plus a the 53 who did not return from Royal Albert Hall where the ‘’ experiment the Dam Busters raid in 1943. Tickets can be purchased newly restored film will be and music from the world directly from the Royal Albert played on a 40ft screen. The famous Glenn Miller Orchestra. Dan Snow said: “One of Hall website, https://www. commemorative evening, on the greatest British films of royalalberthall.com/tickets/ May 17, the 75th anniversary The evening will also raise funds all time in one of Britain’s events/2018/the-dam- of the raid, will pay tribute for the RAF Benevolent Fund, greatest venues. It’s going to busters-with-dan-snow/ More than 5,000 people have been helped by relationship support service ow entering its eighth year, going through separation or sessions, it has definitely been “Relationship counselling is just Nthe RAF Benevolent Fund’s divorce, and family counselling. more than worthwhile for both one way the RAF Benevolent Fund partnership with relationship my own personal progression supports the emotional wellbeing counselling service Relate has Feedback from RAF servicemen as well as my relationship.” of its beneficiaries. The Fund also been so successful the service and women and their partners has partnerships with Anxiety UK is being extended to include who have taken up the sessions Alison Wyman, Head of Welfare and Cruse Bereavement Care to veterans and their partners. is incredibly positive, with Programmes and Development, offer help to those facing anxiety everyone who was asked saying said: “The mental and emotional and depression issues or struggling To date more than 5,000 serving they would recommend the wellbeing of the entire RAF with the loss of a loved one.” personnel have taken up the service and they felt better able Family is vitally important. Fund’s offer of six free Relate to cope with difficulties they To find out more about the counselling sessions and the might face in the future. “Building on the success of Fund’s relationship counselling effects have been life-changing. this partnership with Relate support call 0845 077 5556 or One client said: “I'm not sure we will allow even more of that visit http://rafbf.relate.org.uk/ to The service is now open to RAF would still be together or able RAF Family to access this kind access our free online Building veterans and their families and to communicate had we not of support. As we know only Stronger Families course. includes access to a free online, decided to have these sessions.” too well, RAF families can face Building Stronger Families unique challenges and that does To contact Anxiety UK call course, as well as subsidised Another added: “Although initially not change as service leavers 0844 334 1550 or email mediation sessions for couples apprehensive to attend any Relate transition into new civilian careers. [email protected]

WW: 26 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 Raf Benevolent Fund Expands Support Service to Personnel Congratulations and their Partners Experiencing Anxiety or Depression RAF Fylingdales!

ew services to support the men and women are also able lmost a third of Benevolent Fund, said: “We Nemotional wellbeing and to attend therapy sessions. Apersonnel stationed at are extremely grateful for the mental health of RAF personnel RAF Fylingdales answered incredible response we’ve had are being launched this year by Alison Wyman, Head of Welfare the call to help the RAF to the survey across the RAF the RAF Benevolent Fund. Programmes and Development Benevolent Fund carry out a Family. I would like to thank at the RAF Benevolent Fund, wide-ranging survey of the each and every one of you! The RAF’s leading welfare said: “As the RAF’s leading welfare needs of the serving RAF charity is expanding its charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund Family. “RAF Fylingdales galvanised partnership with Anxiety UK knows only too well the stresses 32% of their community to to cover serving RAF men and strains life in the Armed This dedication has seen take part and their welfare and women as well as those Forces can put on personnel the station awarded with a grant is richly deserved. who have left the service. and their relationships. After £15,000 welfare grant to be This includes both regulars identifying this welfare need, we spent on the station for the “Extensive research within and reservists, as well as their have worked in partnership with benefit of those personnel. the veterans’ community has partners. a specialist to provide a service allowed us to expand our to support those suffering from In total more than 3,000 services to them to better Those struggling with anxiety poor mental health as well as full-timers, reservists and meet identified needs, with or depression will have access their partners.” dependents completed the services such as relationship to an Anxiety UK helpline for survey from right across the support and bereavement emotional support, self-help To contact Anxiety UK call 0844 RAF, the results of which support. Whilst we have some material and subsidised 334 1550 or email rafsupport@ will be used to inform our research from the serving membership. This includes free anxietyuk.org.uk To find out more investment decisions about RAF, what we are missing is membership to Headspace, an about the Fund’s relationship welfare services provided by the individual’s voice. Now online mindfulness programme counselling support call 0845 077 the Fund. we have this, we can deliver aimed at helping people to 5556 or visit http://rafbf.relate. tailored services to the serving have calmer minds Reservists org.uk/ to access our free online Paul Hughesdon, Director of RAF, that better meet their and partners of serving RAF Building Stronger Families course. Welfare and Policy at the RAF current and future needs.”

include cerebral palsy, hemiplegia, HORIZONHORIZON NEEDSNEEDS YOU!YOU! Down Syndrome, MLD/SLD communication difficulties, language delay, Aspergers, autism, ADHD, dyspraxia/dyslexia, Fragile X, Chromosome disorders, and Hearing and visual impairment.

All classes are held after school during term-time. Assistant coaches The club has a strong network of volunteer coaching assistants all recruited from local secondary orizon is a registered charity specialist coaching, with a high year olds and provides one-one schools, John Hampden, Hwhich provides a unique ratio of support through its support from volunteer coaching Wycombe High School, Wycombe after-school sports club for volunteer network in a small assistants. Our youth section also Abbey, Royal Grammar School children and young people group environment. has volunteers supporting them, and Sir William Borlaise. Assistants with disabilities, living in South if that is deemed appropriate. commit to a volunteers course Buckinghamshire. We give our Our aim is to help them discover “Theory into Practice” and receive members the opportunity to the pleasures of sport, from the Each class is run by a coach in-house training throughout their develop both physically and enjoyment of learning new skills, trained in each sporting time at the club. socially through the enjoyment to developing their confidence, discipline designed to stimulate All Assistant Coaches are selected of sport. The sports offered are: self esteem, social skills and the students. All Coaches are by the Head Coach and school Dance, Swimming, Tennis, Ball friendship. governing body trained and 6th Form Tutors. They also attend Skills and Football. lifeguards are qualified. Sports Coach UK courses. Can you help? If you think you have the skills, Horizon is dedicated to providing Are you qualified in sports We have a maximum of 10 time and enthusiasm to bring and encouraging children and delivery of any kind? children per class and the club some joy through sport to young young people with disabilities Horizon operates two sections endeavours to cater for all disabled children then please to express themselves through within the club. Our junior children and young people with contact FS Gail Lawrence at TDF sport and recreation by offering section accommodates 4–11 disabilities. Disabilities supported on x6723.

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 27 TAKING FOOTBALL TO AFRICA AND BEYOND CHARITABLE APPEAL PART 1

REPORT ON NEPAL VISIT – 14 DEC TO 29 DEC 2017 On behalf of the Taking Football to Africa and Beyond Charitable Appeal a team of 12 people travelled to Nepal on 14th December 2017 to complete a range of deliveries across the country in association with the Gurkha Welfare Scheme (Trust).

Travelling Party: Travel: Wg Cdr Neil Hope MBE – Appeal ost of the team met at Organiser – SO1DAAM – Birmingham Airport and RAF Shawbury Mflew together on Qatar Wg Cdr Chris Skaife – Defence Air via Doha. Gary Rogan met the College – Shrivenham (ex OC team in Doha having flown from PMS RAF Shawbury) his home in Spain. Suzi Mitchell Sqn Ldr Gary James – Station travelled separately to the team via Flight Safety Officer – RAF Istanbul and Alan Fish via Bangkok. Shawbury The team met up in Kathmandu Sqn Ldr (Retd) Sue Crooks – ex at their first hotel, the Kathmandu CATCS Instructor RAF Shawbury Grand Hotel in Thamel following Flt Lt (Retd) Tony Kinchley a one hour transit from the – Appeal Team – Cobham airport thorough very congested Instructor SAOC RAF Shawbury dusty polluted roads with little Flt Lt Suzi Mitchell – PSO to AOC organisation. The hotel was 2 Gp - HQ Air Command, RAF comfortable with a warm welcome High Wycombe (soon to be Sqn from the owners. Following arrival Ldr – SATCO RAF Linton On Ouse) Neil Hope and Tony Kinchley met 18 months, to Nepal by the Appeal. The first delivery of the day was Flt Lt Izzi Tierney – Instructor with Capt (Retd) Purna Limbu, the A total of 14 boxes of kit had been at the Hindu Higher Secondary SAOC RAF Shawbury Senior Area Welfare Officer for the delivered in preparation for the visit School, Kageswari Manahara. At the Flt Lt Nic McNamee – Physio RAF Bagmati Region for the Gurkha and the team carried an additional school the team were met by the Leeming (ex RAF Shawbury) Welfare Scheme and also with the 6 kitbags of items with them. Headmaster and some teachers Flt Lt (Retd) Gary Rogan – ex owners of Himalayan Ecstasy, the and students. Following some brief DHFS Instructor RAF Shawbury Trek company for the Annapurna On meeting the team we were introductions the team handed FS Louise Simpson – Appeal Trek. astounded to realise that Purna and out items of kit and then joined the Team – Instructor SOAC RAF Gary Rogan had previously crossed boys for a football match, whilst the Shawbury (soon to be Warrant Kathmandu: paths, whilst not actually realising girls played a separate game. The Officer staying at Shawbury) 16 Dec – The team were met at it. On 1 June 1982 Gary, as a Sgt schools were very accommodating Mrs Sandra Nevins – the hotel by Capt (Retd) Purna Crewman on the famous Chinook and provided the team with jam Cobham RAF Shawbury Limbu for a full day of deliveries in BN, had transported Purna, as a sandwiches and hot tea. The team Mr Alan Fish – Coolwater Direct/ the Kathmandu area. The Gurkha young Rifleman in 7th Gurkha Rifles also took time to explain why they Tiger Moth Experience – Welfare team had earlier organized from San Carlos Bay to Goose Green were there as well as explaining RAF FA Sponsor the boxes sent over the previous in the Falklands War. that the visit corresponded with

WW: 28 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 sits behind Pokhara and is 22793ft high with many of the 25000ft plus peaks of the Annapurna Range sitting beyond it. Pokhara is very different to Kathmandu with the the beginning of the RAF’s 100th main tourist area sitting on the Anniversary. edge of the beautiful Lake Fewa. had to be following the extensive In comparison to Kathmandu it is damage the Earthquakes caused. The next delivery was at the Siphal a much cleaner town. The team The team then had coffee in the Orphanage. The orphanage also arrived and settled into their hotel, Officers’ Mess before setting off to has a small home for children with the Hotel Splendid View. complete the day’s deliveries. disabilities. The team handed out items including football shirts and 18 Dec – First delivery of the day was at Shree pens and pencils and spent time The team travelled through Pokhara Mahendra Secondary School at chatting and playing with the to the Headquarters of the Gurkha Lahachock in Machapuchare Rural children as well as visiting the bed Welfare Scheme. The Scheme Municipality in the foothills above bound children and adults with is a UK charity working with the Pokhara. The journey to school was disabilities. Ghurkhas. In the UK the Scheme up a very steep mountain road is known as the Trust. The HQ is which was only accessible by 4 The final delivery in the Kathmandu also the place that attracts up wheel drive land rovers from the area was at the Lalitpur orphanage. to 10000 Nepalese each year, all Ghurkhas. The school was home to Again, the team were warmly hoping to qualify for one of the 200 315 children, who were currently welcomed and handed out kit or so places in the British Gurkha sitting exams. The team were met to the children, which again Regiments. They also recruit for the by the Headmaster, Mr Govinda included children with disabilities. Singapore Police and the Indian Prasad Adhikari, a previous pupil, Furthermore some members of the Gurkha Regiments. who briefed on the school. The team had an impromptu football team then had a tour of the school match with the children. At the HQ the team were met by and met many of the children Capt (Retd) Pimbahadur Gurung. before handing out items of the kit. Following a period of downtime the Pim had already been of great team prepared to move on the next assistance to the Appeal as he is the Next the team travelled back into leg of the visit to Pokhara. contact in Nepal and also the man the centre of Pokhara to visit the that had re-sorted all of the kit ready Shree Bindhyabasini Secondary 17 Dec – for distribution. Pim will also ensure School. The team were briefed by The team split into 2 groups for that items not delivered during the headmaster, Basanta Raj Pandy the short flights to Pokhara. Team the teams visit would be properly and took tea before meeting some one had a seamless transfer to distributed across Nepal through of the schools 500 children and the airport for their flight with Yeti the Trust. The team also met with handing out football kit. It was Airlines. The 2nd group were not as Lt Col John White, the head of the interesting to note that the plaque lucky and took well over an hour to Earthquake Response Teams. John at the entrance stated that the get through the busy Kathmandu gave the team a full brief on the school was opened in 2021! This is traffic arriving in time to run through ongoing efforts in relieve of villages due to it currently being 2074 in the the domestic terminal to make their and Gurkha families affected by the Nepalese calendar. flight on Simrik Airlines. The flights, massive Earthquakes in 2015. The however, went well allowing the brief was incredibly interesting and team a 25 minute fabulous view showed how extensive the efforts of the Himalayas followed by a 90 degree turn on short finals for the hair-raising landings at Pokhara. On landing and disembarking the team got an excellent view of the incredible Mt Machapuchare, known as the ‘Fish Tail’. The Fish Tail

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 29 Station Charities

Committee – Are you looking for Update and Call for Volunteers exceptional childcare? The House that Jack Built (Day Nursery) Limited has very year, the RAF High the course of the year donated Wycombe Station community £2,100 to each of them. been awarded “Outstanding” at two of our nurseries raises thousands of pounds and is amongst one of the few childcare providers E to have an Early Years Teacher within its dedicated in support of the Station’s ‘core These charities were: Families’ charities’ by holding fundraising Activity Breaks (FAB) www. team of staff. With nurseries based in Naphill, events, dropping money in fabcamps.org.uk, Wycombe Hazlemere, Flackwell Heath and Marlow Bottom. collection tins and through Homeless Connection WE STRIVE TO OFFER: standing donations by each www.wyhoc.org.uk • A loving and homely environment where of the Messes. The RAF High and PACE www.thepacecentre.org. young babies feel safe and secure Wycombe Station Charities Committee exists to coordinate all This year, a slight change in rules • High quality childcare providing an environment of this, selecting which charities to has meant the Committee can only of rich learning experiences support for the year, carrying out support charities which benefit • Care, committed and enthusiastic staff the necessary administration and Service personnel (this includes • A strong partnership with parents organising fundraising activities. Ex-Serving and dependents). • Registered to care for children aged from 0 to 5 years The Committee has therefore • Open 51 weeks of the year Monday to Friday Last year, the Station supported selected the following 3 charities • Breakfast, lunch and tea all provided and 3 fantastic charities and over as the Station’s core charities: freshly prepared by our dedicated chefs Hounds for The Forces RED KITES OVER THE MOON Children’s Trust: Heroes: Naphill - RAF High Wycombe Flackwell Heath - High Wycombe Tel: 01494 564439 Tel: 01628 532169

THE HOUSE THAT THE HOUSE THAT JACK BUILT JACK BUILT Marlow Bottom - Marlow Hazlemere - High Wycombe Tel: 01628 481601 Tel:01494 713425 FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.houndsforheroes.com www.thtjb-daynursery.co.uk www.forceschildrenstrust.org Hounds for Heroes The FCT is devoted provide specially trained to helping children in assistance dogs to injured need whose father or and disabled men and mother has died, or has women of the UK Armed sustained life-changing Forces and Emergency injuries, whilst serving as Services. Through this a member of the British provision they aim to Armed Forces or Civilian provide help and practical Forces (i.e. Police, Fire and support leading to an Ambulance Services). enhanced quality of life.

If you’d like to be involved in this Support our Soldiers: rewarding Committee, either long term as a Committee Member, or short term to help with a one-off event, we would very much like to hear from you. Most particularly we would like to recruit more Junior Ranks, who are currently under-represented on the team.

We would also like to hear from anyone undertaking fundraising activities for any other charities; www.supportoursoldiers.org.uk the Committee may be able to support your chosen charity with Support Our Soldiers provides an ad hoc donation or practical support for members of the assistance, and you will also help British Armed Forces serving us in collating our annual report on overseas and their families at charitable activity across the Station. home. They support all Services and all ranks by sending If you would like any information or morale boosting goodie are interested in becoming involved, boxes to personnel serving please contact Flt Lt Dan Ruane on overseas operations. on extension 7254 or via email at [email protected].

WW: 30 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 R W Smithy’s All Ranks Bar hether you are married Open from 7pm Monday to with a family, a single Thursday; 5pm Friday and Wperson in the block or 12pm Saturday it is a great one of the many civil servants location to go and unwind he RAF High Wycombe working here, or the wife, partner, and contractors who work on or socialise. But to top it off Ladies Choir was set up in daughter or mother of any of RAF High Wycombe, Smithy’s all the Committee regularly run T2012 by the Community the above! We rehearse on a ranks bar has something to offer fun events, see the bottom Development Worker and has Wednesday evening in the Church you. Situated just off to the left of this article for some events been providing a fun, supportive on 3 Site from 1900 to 2030. as you enter through the 3-site coming soon, or check us place for ladies associated with gate, Smithy’s has a range of out on Facebook for all

RAF High Wycombe to express Despite the choir being such facilities available to everyone the latest information. Clubs & Committees themselves ever since. The fun and so uplifting to our spirits connected to the Station. But don’t just take my word for choir have performed at Armed we are struggling for numbers it – come down and try it for Forces Day, the Stn Music Festival, lately and we don’t know why. There is a pool table, fruit yourself. See you in the bar. NapFest, the Sing it Out charity Could I ask that if you have ever machines, comfortable We are always on the look-out concert and the Stn Annual considered joining the choir, or seating areas, an indoor play for enthusiastic individuals to Reception along with a host of used to sing in a choir that you area for the children and Sky help on the committee, if you local events including the annual drop a quick email to meat anne. Sports! It truly is a fun family- are interested in joining or have Remembrance Service in High [email protected] and friendly environment and yes; any questions please contact Wycombe. We have also sung on let me know what it is that is it is open to ALL RANKS! Chris Churchman on x7664. the Swingle Singers 2013 album putting you off coming; is it the ‘Weather to Fly’ and recorded time that’s inconvenient, is it UPCOMING EVENTS: the jingles for the Richard Hatch childcare issues, did you not know Bingo – Thursday 22nd Feb, £10 to play, first ball drawn at 8pm. Breakfast Show on BFBS. The that we existed; is it because we Family’s happy hour – Friday 9nd Mar, kids disco and buffet. group is very supportive of aren’t a Military Wives Choir, is it St Patricks day – Thursday 15th Mar, details to follow soon. each other and in fact we were too far to travel from your SFA,…? Bring your boss night – Thursday 5th Apr, open EARLY at 4pm. awarded a commendation in 2014 If we know what the things are for our charity work and support that stop you from coming, then to the Service Community. maybe we can do something to make it easier for you to join We sing bespoke arrangements us and have fun singing. of a variety of songs from older classics to current chart and movie In the meantime, rehearsals, soundtrack hits. No previous have started for the new term singing experience is needed and we already have a potential and there are no auditions, just gig lined up. We have a great turn up and join in! The choir is set list that is shaping up nicely open to all ladies (16 and over) and our social diary is starting with a connection to RAF High to fill up too. Why not come Wycombe; so you could be a and join us (your first rehearsal Service Woman (current or retired), is free) or like us on Facebook a Civil Servant or a contractor and follow what we are up to.

For more information email: [email protected] Shoe Repairs, or contact the OIC, Key Cutting, Flt Lt Anne Nicholson Sports Trophies on Ext 6177 or & Engraving

[email protected] Also dry cleaning Find us on Facebook: & watch batteries RAF HW Ladies Choir 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE Tel: 01844 274651 OUR CHOIR for OUR COMMUNITY Email: [email protected]

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 31 Sports © Shutterstock / PicsFive © Shutterstock TUG OF WAR ere we are, a new year compete in front of the Queen. Army Champs in Germany and have entry fees arranged and a with new intentions for RAF High Wycombe pullers are will host an RAF 100 event right rope already bought thanks to Hour huge list of New Year’s already showing promise in here at High Wycombe. All the the PEd Flight and we have a resolutions. So how about trying achieving a place at the games kit you need will be supplied, we qualified coach on the Station. something new that anyone can by winning Bronze medals at have a go at, will get you fit, you’ll the Military Indoor event last Dates for 2018 include: meet new people and travel to November and are looking to do interesting places??? The sport of well at the RAF Champs in June. 18 Apr Jack Smiths Memorial – Novice event Corsham/Blandford Tug of War has come to RAF High Wycombe with a club forming at The sport simply involves moving 16 May Champs (Invitational) Boulford the end of last year, we are on the backwards for just 4 meters RAF Cosford lookout for people (Military, civil but like any multi person and 24 May RAF Novice Champs / Training service, Service Family members technical sport that will involve 30 May Army Champs (Invitational) Gutersloh (Germany) and local civilians) of any size, teamwork, determination and gender or fitness level to give the focus. Like boxers, the sport is 13 Jun RAF Inter Station Champs RAF Cosford sport a go, you just need to be governed by weight categories willing to learn, do some training so anyone can have a go and be 7 Jul RLC Champs (Invitational) Deepcut and be open minded enough to good at it, the RAF has pullers 11 Jul RAF 100 Event RAF High Wycombe throw away stereo types that the weighing as little as 60kg up to sport is exclusive to huge farmers 130kg, no one gets excluded. The 25 July Royal Welsh Bulth Wells at county shows! It is currently categories include men’s, ladies the fastest growing sport across and mixed teams of 8 people for 1 Sep Royal Highland Games Breamar Defence with clubs up and normal competitions and 6 for 21 Nov Military Indoor Champs Corsham down the country competing novice and the RAF Champs. at military and civilian events. The formed RAF teams has the This year will be a big one for the Interested? Then come along training starts at 1600.Or contact added incentive that every year RAF teams who have been invited to the Gym (Rugby Field) on Flt Lt Gareth Davies, Station at least 2 get invited to enter to compete at the Royal Welsh, Wednesdays (when there’s not Training Officer on ext 7828 / the Royal Highland Games to The Royal Highland Games, The an event on) from the 4 Apr, [email protected]

WW: 32 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 RAF High Wycombe There’s been loads going on over the past year in RAF Snowboarding, with RAF High Wycombe right at the heart of it. A quick look at what’s been going on, what’s coming Snowboarding up and how to get involved.

What’s happened? Indoor Champs, and a team of Around 18 Months ago a group RAF Boarders take on the British of snowboarders from across a Indoor Snowboard Cross. number of units, frustrated that they weren’t getting enough Coming up time on the snow, starting 19:00 – 21:00 on the first Tuesday getting together on the first of every month is a session open Tuesday of the month for to people of any standard, be it some Freestyle Snowboarding. complete beginner or Freestyle Spearheaded by the High Legend. And although it started Wycombe MCO, this snowballed as purely a Snowboarding club, (pun intended, sorry!) from 10 or skiers are welcome along too. 15 just doing a bit of Freestyle to up to 80 people a session, Getting involved across Freestyle, Development The Winter Sports club sends coaching, and probably most out info to a distribution list importantly, beginner lessons. periodically. If you want on it then e-mail HWY-Winter Sports. On top of that we’ve had the OIC Flt Lt Gareth Paddock 3 day Development Camps, 2IC Cpl Craig Smyth Robson Water Sports Centre Delivering Force Development boarding, rafting, Canoe, Kayak’s, training (iaw AP3379 Lft 2410) Coracles and team challenges. to the whole force. Contact phil.crawford732@mod. Activities include: Dragon go.uk for more information and boating, Stand up paddle bookings.

WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 33 WW: 34 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2018 WW: 35 MOBILEMOBILE TYRETYRE FITTINGFITTING WEWE COMECOME TOTO YOU!YOU! • Car, Van & High Performance Tyres • Specialist Wheel Alignment Service • Truck & Plant Tyre Specialist • Trade / Accounts Welcome • Wheel Balancing • 4 x 4 Tyres Stockists Of All Leading Makes of Tyres To advertise in the next issue of this publication please contact Tammie Tel: 01536 526667

Email: mobile tammie@ lancepublishing.co.uk Tel: 01494 565648 You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun... A spacious 1 bedroom apartment with shared swimming pool. The apartment is situated on the top floor of a 3 storey block. Quiet location, but only 5 mins walk to the marina and another 5 mins to the town centre.

Self Catering Holiday Apartment • Twin bedroom. • Open plan kitchen & lounge. • The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. • Family sized bathroom. • The lounge has a sofa (which PRICES: converts into two single beds) Jan - March £225 and a table to seat four. April £300 May £325 • A TV, DVD and CD player June £375 are also available. July/August £475 Sept £375 • Patio doors open onto the Oct £325 balcony, offering views over Nov/Dec £250 the pool and across Lagos. • Ample parking space in front of the building. www.algarve-retreats.com/ Phone Judith on property-to-rent/apartment-meia.htm 01536 711884 AWARDED to the Military Division of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath Gordon’s also promotes a spirit of inclusion, especially between Residential in the Queen’s New Year Honour’s List, a Gordon’s parent commented ‘…it is Boarders and Day Boarders. Day Boarders stay for prep and an evening meal and tremendously helpful to have the support of a school that understands and is Saturday sport is compulsory for all. Day Boarders are also encouraged to take sympatheticAWARDED to to the the Military demands Division of Service of the Life’. Most Honourable Order of the Bath theirGordon’s Residential also promotes Boarding a spiritfriends of homeinclusion, for weekends. especially between Residential in the Queen’s New Year Honour’s List, a Gordon’s parent commented ‘…it is Boarders and Day Boarders. Day Boarders stay for prep and an evening meal and Certainlytremendously Gordon’s helpful proximity to have tothe a supportnumber of amilitary school bases that understands as well as Heathrow and is ToSaturday ensure sport service is compulsory children have for equalall. Day opportunities Boarders are to otheralso encouraged students, the to school take is Airportsympathetic and major to the routes demands across of Service the country Life’. have contributed to the current alsotheir openingResidential over Boarding the Easter friends holidays home to for Residential weekends. Boarders so they can attend roll where over 50 per cent of our students are from military families. But an revision clinics understandingCertainly Gordon’s of military proximity life isto somethinga number ofthat military has been bases running as well through as Heathrow the fabric To ensure service children have equal opportunities to other students, the school is ofAirport the school and major since routes its inception across overthe country a century have ago. contributed to the current Traceyalso opening Phillips’ over children the Easter had moved holidays house to Residential nine times Boarders before coming so they to can Gordon’s attend roll where over 50 per cent of our students are from military families. But an andrevision attended clinics five different schools across the globe. Originallyunderstanding built inof 1885military by lifepublic is something subscription that as has a national been running memorial through to General the fabric Charlesof the school Gordon, since the its School inception was over opened a century as a homeago. for ‘necessitous’ boys – for “TheTracey homely Phillips’ feel children really stood had moved out for house us” recalled nine times Tracey. before “We coming felt a strong to Gordon’s sense of them to be trained for civil and military life. familyand attended and the five fact thatdifferent the pastoralschools andacross teaching the globe. staff were used to working with Originally built in 1885 by public subscription as a national memorial to General military families so understood the special nature of where the kids are coming from TodayCharles the Gordon, ceremonial the School aspect was very opened much remains. as a home Each for student‘necessitous’ is issued boys with – for and“The that homely they feelhave really had stoodto move out frequently.” for us” recalled Tracey. “We felt a strong sense of ‘Blues’,them to theirbe trained marching for civil uniform. and military Students life. take part in drill practice every week and family and the fact that the pastoral and teaching staff were used to working with Gordon’s is the only school in England permitted to parade along Whitehall each “Housemilitary familiesParents soare understood also aware the that special they [children nature of from where a service the kids family] are coming are under from yearToday to the commemorate ceremonial aspectthe life veryof General much remains.Gordon. Each student is issued with extraand that pressure they have because had totheir move parents frequently.” may have been posted to a war zone”. ‘Blues’, their marching uniform. Students take part in drill practice every week and AllGordon’s Year 10 is studentsthe only schooljoin the in CCF England (Navy, permitted Army and to Air parade Force) along which Whitehall many continue each Marching“House Parents has added are also benefits aware for that her they children [children too: from“We acan service see how family] it instils are under intoyear Sixth to commemorate Form, as well the as lifecompleting of General their Gordon. Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards. disciplineextra pressure and pride, because and their is part parents of what may makes have the been school posted so unique.”to a war zone”.

ForAll Year many 10 of students the children join thefrom CCF families (Navy, in Armythe services, and Air Gordon’sForce) which has manybeen theircontinue Marching has added benefits for her children too: “We can see how it instils firstinto Sixth‘constant’ Form, after as well a life as of completing moving schools their Gold and Dukehomes of in Edinburgh line with their Awards. parents’ discipline and pride, and is part of what makes the school so unique.” postings around the world. It is also a haven from the worry of a parent involved inFor action. many of the children from families in the services, Gordon’s has been their first ‘constant’ after a life of moving schools and homes in line with their parents’ Militarypostings families around are the givenworld. priority It is also over a havenothers fromapplying the worry for a placeof a parent at Gordon’s. involved The Schoolin action. employs counsellors for them and tutors to plug any gaps in their education.

TheMilitary success families of theseare given measures priority is over illustrated others byapplying the statistics for a place which at showGordon’s. Gordon’s The asSchool one ofemploys the highest counsellors value-added for them schools and tutors in the to country plug any with gaps achievements in their education. at GCSE and A-Level earning it the reputation as one of the top performing secondary schoolsThe success in England. of these measures is illustrated by the statistics which show Gordon’s as one of the highest value-added schools in the country with achievements at SpiritualGCSE and guidance A-Level and earning support it the is reputationgiven through as one chapel of the services top performing and informal secondary worship.schools in And England. House Parents provide a ‘home from home’, lending special atmosphere to each boarding house and ensuring that their free time off is fun with numerousSpiritual guidance activities. and support is given through chapel services and informal worship. And House Parents provide a ‘home from home’, lending special Student members of the Pipes and Drums Band from Gordon’s School, Woking take to the streets of London Manyatmosphere Residential to each Boarders boarding from house military and familiesensuring find that they their arefree reconnecting time off is fun with with on for their annual parade along Whitehall. The School, which is a national monument to General Gordon numerous activities. of Khartoum - is the only one in the country permitted to march along the central London venue – and family friends made in service quarters and making new ones. commemorating General Gordon’s life has been an integral part of the School’s history. Student members of the Pipes and Drums Band from Gordon’s School, Woking take to the streets of London Many Residential Boarders from military families find they are reconnecting with on for their annual parade along Whitehall. The School, which is a national monument to General Gordon of Khartoum - is the only one in the country permitted to march along the central London venue – and family friends made in service quarters and making new ones. commemorating General Gordon’s life has been an integral part of the School’s history.

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