Provost

Parade Issue 1 2015 THE MAGAZINE OF THE

Provost Contents Parade

Editorial Team Foreword...... 4 Chairman of the Journal Editorial...... 5 Gp Capt K Bailey PM(RAF) 95991 6066 Bikesafe Road Safety...... 6 RAFP-HQ PM Drink Drive Campaign...... 6 Editor Honour and Awards...... 7 Sal Davidson 95991 7762 Close Protection in Karachi...... 8 RAFP-HQ SO2 Engagement Ex RED FLAG...... 10 Assistant Editor New Police Recruit...... 12 Flag Bearing...... 26 WO S Coppard 95991 6131 Ex VOLCANEX...... 12 The RAFP Rugby Club...... 27 RAFP-HQ PMWO Sierra Leone and Beyond...... 13 RAFP FC USA Tour...... 28 Provost Parade Shop Manager Crufts...... 14 RAFP AT and FD...... 29 FS Paul Symons 93835 4852 Ex BERSAMA LIMA...... 16 Cyprus Joint Police Unit...... 30 02392 284852 RAF Northolt Dog Section...... 17 RAFP Security Liason Officers...... 32 Postal Sales Manager Blind Veterans UK...... 18 DSPG and RAFPA Receive Awards...... 34 Sgt Glen Williams 93835 4310 Festival of Remembrance...... 18 CSI Henlow...... 35 02392 284310 Blessing of RAFP Memorial Stones...... 19 RAFP Children Passing Out...... 35 Curator of the RAF Police Museum Trudi's Troops March Against Cancer...... 20 Historical Snowdrop Snippets...... 36 Sgt Wilkinson 93835 4803 RAF Police 2015...... 22 Final March to Parliament...... 38 02392 284803 Ten Pin Bowling...... 24 Scotland and Northern Ireland Branch....39 DCPG-TrgWg-CDT-RAFPPSSME Force Development Day...... 25 Millies Awards Ceremony...... 40 Future Submissions Address: An Honour for RAF Policeman...... 41 Editor Provost Parade MK Half Marathon...... 25 HQ RAFP SO2 Engagement Force Protection HQ Provost RAF Honington Parade Bury St Edmunds THE MAGAZINE OF THE Issue 1 2015 Suffolk IP31 1EE Tel: 01359 239560 ext 7762 Email: [email protected]

Provost Parade is not an official publication and the views expressed in this magazine, unless otherwise stated, do not reflect MoD, Command © This magazine contains official information and should be or Station policy and are the personal views of treated with discretion by the recipient. No responsibility for the authors. No part of this publication may be the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine can be accepted by the publishers or printers. Advertisements reproduced without the permission of the editor or are included in good faith. Published by Forces and Corporate publisher. While every effort is made to ensure that Publishing Ltd, Hamblin House, Hamblin Court, Rushden, advertisers are bona fida, no responsibility for the Northamptonshire NN10 0RU. Tel: 01933 419994 Fax: 01933 419584. quality of goods or services offered by them can E-mail: [email protected] be accepted by the publisher or editorship of the Managing Director: Ron Pearson magazine. Managing Editor: Katie Mordue Design: Amy Leverton Cover picture: Sales Manager: Amanda Mains Steve Wilson with his dog Resi Provost Parade 3 Provost Marshal (RAF) and Commander RAF Police Gp Capt Bailey

Nelson Mandela said, “It is not I believe that strong morale and positive ethos is critical to future success. This is the bedrock where you start, but how high you of the RAF Police and we risk operational and aim that matters for success”. This is professional failure if it is ignored. Therefore, I have continued to implement the RAF Police particularly true for the RAF Police. Morale Strategy based around four themes: Last year we were dominated by Regular Communication the redeployment from Awards and Recognition Fun and Job Satisfaction and recovering our contingency Professionalisation capability. It was a challenging Central to this work, we’ve been improving year, which we met with distinction. both our internal and external communication, However, those events are now which has improved significantly over recent months. This is primarily due to part of our history and I am now the commendable work of the new SO2 focussed on ensuring that the RAF Engagement, Ms Sal Davidson, who provides a much-needed focus for this work. Additionally, Police will flourish. By the end of I was delighted that our unique blend of this year I aim to have a RAF Police skills has been recognised in recent honours and awards. In particular, I welcome the that is able to meet our current, OBE awarded to Wg Cdr Jim Penelhum in the recent operational honours and the MBE contingency and crisis commitments awarded to WO Phill Rodd in the New Year’s without excessive strain upon honours. Additionally, I was impressed with the team provided an excellent display of the De Putron Trophy 2014 submissions. Each obedience, agility and operational capability to the individual or organisation. To of the submissions was different, but they an enthusiastic and knowledgeable audience. achieve this demanding objective all underlined the fact that RAF Police are Well done to all those involved. undertaking exceptional work in very difficult we are working to: deliver conditions. In February, I attended the RAF Police operational success both in the Association Church Parade at Southwick Park. In January, I visited our personnel deployed The service included the dedication of the UK and on deployment; improve on OP KIPION within the Middle East to see memorial stones to Cpl David Shepherd who professionalism (through training, how they utilise a wide spectrum of air- died in Kuwait in 2003 and Cpl Brent McCarthy minded policing and security expertise to who died in Afghanistan in 2012. It was an secondments and experience); deliver multiple effects with limited resources. emotional service for us all, but particularly for I was impressed with the enthusiasm and David and Brent’s parents who are now part introduce a new operating model professionalism of everyone I met. Contingent of our extended RAF Police family. I am sure for the RAF Police; and rebalancing operations and aviation security tasks continue we were all saddened by the death in January to be hectic. In particular, the Very High of Air Commodore George Innes a former the RAF Police to provide resilience Readiness within No 1 Tactical Police Sqn Provost Marshal. He had a remarkable career within our structures. has impressed me with the consistent delivery in the RAF Police, which included protecting of air-minded police and security capabilities King Ramas IX of Thailand from would-be The new operating model is rooted in our around the world on an increasingly frequent assassins in 1946 and in 1968 uncovering a core general police duties capability and basis. Undoubtedly, they have been a key Soviet spy within the RAF, Chief Technician represents an evolution of our abilities with enabler for air operations who routinely “go Douglas Britten. The innovative techniques a focus on delivering intelligence-led effects wherever the RAF goes”. Simultaneously, there he employed during the counter-intelligence that balance AIR’s priorities within the UK has been an increasing need within the UK investigation into Britten’s activities remain Home Base with the requirement to support for a robust security culture, this has ensured the best practice model employed within the enduring and contingent deployed operations. that our ability to protect, pursue, prevent and RAF for countering the “insider threat” and It will place greater emphasis on specialist and prepare against threats to RAF assets has been something we will be refreshing as part of our investigative output by widening multi-skilling. in considerable demand. This renewed interest security culture campaign. This includes ensuring that personnel receive in homeland security is most welcome and the required training and qualifications to RAF Police have been proactive in developing a During this time of uncertainty and austerity, develop the necessary specialist experience. It Security Culture Campaign Plan and providing the RAF Police continue to provide value-for- also includes the increasing utilisation of RAF enhanced security education. money security and law enforcement based Police Reserve capability by the development on our multi-skill capabilities. I am proud of the of a “special constabulary” relationship with Military working dogs have featured work we are undertaking on a daily basis and stations and the reintroduction of specialist significantly over the last few months. the contribution we make to integrated Force investigators onto selected units. This should Considerable work is underway to provide Protection within AIR. However, most of all I allow the RAF Police to achieve my vision of greater resilience and capabilities within am proud of the people under my command: a highly professional, capable and adaptable our vital dog capability and I have visited a regular, reservist, MPGS and civilians who law enforcement and security organisation number of dog sections and the DAC to review secure critical capabilities to enable air ops and that protects, secures and enables air progress. In March, I was privileged to take the “let justice be done”. power delivery. salute from the RAF Police Dog Demonstration Team at the Crufts Dog Show. Wearing No Fiat Justitia 1 uniform with RAF Police accoutrements,

4 Provost Parade Editorial

2015 to date has been somewhat of a This is my first edition of the Provost Parade so It’s said a picture is worth a thousand I knew little of what to expect when compiling. words and I wholeheartedly agree with this whirlwind for me and I’m sure the same I wondered if it would be a case of arm adage. If your words are supported by good can be said by many across the RAF twisting and bribery to fill the column inches, photographs, they can literally come to life but I’ve been impressed with the amount of and provide the reader with an engaging and Police. I wouldn’t have it any other way submissions supplied and the breadth of topics often emotive experience. Not only that, we’re though. I’m navigating my way along they cover. The common theme that jumped all a little nosey by nature so want to have a out at me is pride in what you do, underpinned visual of what is being described, or a picture a learning curve after joining the HQ with humour. of the person being quoted. When you submit team in January as SO2 Engagement. photos, please do so in jpeg format as separate The success of the magazine relies totally on attachments, as opposed to embedding them It’s certainly been a great deal of fun as you and your input. Even though it’s a biannual in your word document, and ideally 300dpi I continue to understand the various publication, please always keep it in the back of resolution with relevant captions. your mind. When you’re working, on exercise, aspects of the RAF Police’s work and participating in a unique force development I’d really appreciate your feedback on the meet the personnel involved in making opportunity, or if you’re deployed in support of Provost Parade. I would like it to be a showcase a last minute task, please think about putting for everything the RAF Police has to offer it all happen. My plan is to get out and pen to paper while things are fresh in your and a means to bring the Force together about more, so please, invite me to mind and either file away until the next calling by highlighting the achievements and notice, or send it to me at the time. I won’t ever opportunities throughout. your workplace and tell me about what guarantee publication, but a strong story is just you do, so I can in turn tell your story… what’s required. How are we doing? Sal Davidson SO2 Engagement

Provost Parade 5 the UK. Its aim is to reduce the number of motorcyclists being hurt on our roads by improving the skills and knowledge of riders and raising their hazard awareness. The BikeSafe workshop explores the main issues facing today’s bikers. It also explores the principles of advanced riding through the on-road element. The BikeSafe observer gives assessment and feedback, which highlights areas where the rider needs to develop. BikeSafe is about starting on the right path to development as it ‘bridges the gap’. Riders should continue to train throughout their riding years and not just stop once they have passed their bike test. A combination of civilian and military personnel from across the station, including the Stn Cdr, attended the Service Police Station, enjoying a presentation covering topics such as filtering, tackling junctions, cornering orth Yorkshire has some of and overtaking. They also the best roads in England participated in a lively discussion Nfor motorcycles and in with the chief instructor, Sgt Sean the warm summer months the Grey, from the North Yorkshire ROAD SAFETY number of riders out on their Constabulary’s Road Policing bikes increases exponentially. Group. In the afternoon, riders Taking these facts in mind, I were taken out on the local Motorcyclists in the UK are almost 40 times decided it might be prudent to roads by police motorcyclists for more likely to die in a road traffic incident than organise a BikeSafe road safety some one on one instruction and event to promote awareness guidance. With positive feedback standard car drivers and account for around 20% amongst the motorcycling from attendees and some new of the fatalities and serious injuries on the road, community from RAF Linton on tips picked up by even the more Ouse and prevent our personnel experienced riders, the day which is shocking as motorcycles make up only becoming a statistic. was definitely worthwhile and 1% of overall road traffic. Cpl Dave Wiley explains will undoubtedly help towards BikeSafe, a road safety initiative….. BikeSafe is a police led motorcycle reducing the number road traffic initiative that is run throughout incidents involving motorcyclists.

RAF Benson Annual Drink Drive Campaign

With police forces up and down the country running festive season drink drive campaigns, the RAF Police at Benson were no exception. Sgt Mark Sibley reports… In the weeks building up to Christmas, the RAFP Flt at RAF Benson, in conjunction with the Fire Section, Medical Centre and Mechanical Transport Section, planned and carried out the annual drink drive campaign. Cpl O’Connor designed a poster which was well received around the unit; it certainly pulled no punches with its message. With the poster Cpl Buckley was first on scene cordoning off the area, controlling traffic displayed around the various sections, the pressure was on for Cpl and diligently completing his MOD Form 145B. I looked out of my Buckley and I to produce something of worth. window and saw that a photographer was present and immediately donned my high vis jacket and rushed to Cpl Buckley’s aid. Planning was underway. We would simulate an accident which was to be a drink driver knocking a cyclist off their bike before crashing into a The simulated accident was a success. It was evident to us that lamppost. This would involve the response of all the RAF emergency people were really taking notice when passing the scene and seeing services and I could see the look of approval from the fire section’s the emergency services working together to treat the casualties. This representative knowing he would be able to use his cutting tools to seemingly had much more impact than our campaigns from previous free passengers from the crashed vehicle. The accident was to take years with a static crashed car at the main entrance and drink drive place close to the main station entrance at 0750 hrs, a time chosen to paraphernalia. Not only did this simulated accident highlight the purposefully disrupt the normal daily commute to work. dangers of drink driving, it gave station personnel a timely reminder of how professional and creative the RAF Police are at communicating With preparations complete, it was time to execute our plan. messages and when controlling high pressure situations.

6 Provost Parade HONOURS AND AWARDS PRESENTED TO RAF POLICE AT RAF COLLEGE CRANWELL

RAF Police from across the Service recently received their Honours and Awards presented to them by Director of Service Prosecutions, Mr Andrew Cayley CMG QC, the Chief Constable of Lincolnshire Police, Mr Neil Rhodes and the Provost Marshal (RAF) Gp Capt Kevin Bailey. The ceremony, which took place in the Rotunda at College Hall, was attended by family, friends and work colleagues of all those who were honoured on the day.

The De Putron Trophy is awarded annually to the RAF Police Sqn that is judged to have demonstrated outstanding professionalism throughout the year. The trophy is awarded to the regular or reserve RAF Police Sqn that has shown the greatest achievement, leadership, exceptional standards and endeavours. In addition to the De Putron Trophy a number of other awards have been commissioned. The Wilfred Bowes Trophy, in recognition of outstanding investigative performance; De Putron Charity Trophy, in recognition of support of charity work and the President’s Trophy which is awarded to the Sqn that is deemed to have provided great support to the RAFP Association. The President’s Trophy for Support to the RAFP Association was received by Flt Lt Gav Brockie irst to present a variety of awards was and unit which was recognised. I realised today Mr Cayley. He took up his present on behalf of the Defence School of Policing how much we ask of our armed forces and and Guarding. Sqn Ldr Nick Card was next position in December of last year these testimonials demonstrate that RAF Police following a legal career that has taken up to receive the Wilfred Bowes Trophy for personnel deliver with excellence and with Investigative Excellence on behalf of SIIB(S). him to various locations around the enthusiasm in every police discipline.” world.F He is no stranger to honours and awards This year’s De Putron Charity Trophy went to 5 having been appointed Queen’s Counsel in Sqn RAFP and Sgt Sarah Eva from RAF Digby/ Fittingly, the next presenter was Gp Capt Bailey Cranwell had the honour of accepting this 2012 and recognised in last year’s Birthday who had a number of Provost Marshal (RAF) Honours List. on behalf of the . The final award of Commendations to award. The recipients the day was the De Putron Trophy, won by 4 were, Sgt Owain Barnaby from RAF Marham, Sqn RAFP and it was Sqn Ldr Teasdale’s duty WO Dale Woolman-Lane received a Royal Sgt Peter Ward from RAF Odiham, Cpl Clive Warrant, followed by Sgt Dave Hoare who to receive on behalf of his Squadron from French from SIIB(S) RAF Halton and finally, Mrs RAF Lossiemouth. received a Long Service and Good Conduct Jo Nellist from RAF Waddington. Medal, both are stationed at RAF Honington. Sgt Michelle Hitchen, from 1 (T)PS RAF After the ceremony, Chief Constable Rhodes It was then the turn of Chief Constable Rhodes said; “I have a great sense of admiration for Henlow, was next to the stage to receive to present the various team awards. Mr Rhodes her Joint Commanders Commendation. all the award recipients who have each been first joined Lincolnshire Police back in 1986 and tested in some way and their resilience has To accept the AOC 2 Gp Commendation spent 15 years with the force before leaving Team Award on behalf of the HQ RAFP A1/ shone through. The depth and strength of on promotion to Cumbria. He returned to quality in your organisation is overwhelming, A3 Team was Sgt Lisa Keetley joined by WO Lincolnshire Constabulary in 2008 as Deputy Dale Woolman-Lane, returning for his second as is your resilience and pride in the work you Chief Constable, before taking up his current do.” award of the afternoon. Two more AOC 2 Gp role in April 2012. Commendations followed with Sgt Heather Lacey, SIIB(S) RAF Halton and Cpl Gary Blackburn RAuxAF, 3(T)PS RAF Henlow, both being recognised. "I realised today how much we ask of our armed forces and these testimonials demonstrate that RAF Police personnel deliver with Mr Cayley commented, “I was honoured to be asked to make these presentations and very excellence and with enthusiasm in every police discipline.” humbled by the citations for every individual Provost Parade 7 By WO Alex Fowler

Close Protection is alive and kicking in the RAF Police and in addition to the standard Green and Black tours that are ongoing in Afghanistan, Iraq, Algeria and Sudan, additional Isolated Detachments (Isodet) have opened up…

These Isodets are close protection detachments with the local police and Army Rangers. The of a six- month duration. Operators take on the statistics for Karachi make for sober reading role of Close Protection Team Leader (CPTL), and certainly justify the need for CP for UK with teams drawn from the local civilian police assets within the city. In 2014, up to the end of or ex Police/Military, hired or assigned to November, 1800 people were killed in Karachi protect UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office through violence, 45% were civilians, 40% (FCO) principals. There are several Isodets criminals and terrorists and 5% security forces around the world including the Yemen and (10% others) this equates to roughly 100 police Columbia, all with their own unique and and Rangers being killed in the year. demanding challenges. The Team in PK had been selected from the My tour as CPTL of the British Deputy High local Sindh Police Force and although they had Commission (BDHC), Karachi, Pakistan, a city of been taken from the Political Protection Cell, approx 23 million people on the south coast of they still received additional training from a Pakistan (known in CP circles as PK), started at small UK CP team that had travelled to Karachi the end of Oct 14. From the first few minutes of from the Close Protection Unit at Longmoor. It landing at the International airport it was clear was my job to ensure the team was mentored, that I had entered an entirely different arena continuation training was maintained and and culture. The airport had been hit hard in where possible, previous training was evaluated June 2014 by a determined attack from the and enhanced. The main challenge was Tahreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and security language as my one or two words of Urdu in and around the local area was fierce. All really didn’t stretch to the intricacies of Team roads were blocked some distance from the Reaction to Attack. Luckily my 2IC proved to stretch of the imagination, but think of it as a terminal, with a 100% ban on any weapons be an excellent translator and very quickly VERY small run down holiday camp. You can’t inside the cordon. No one was permitted to became my right hand man, helping out with go outside the wire except in an armoured carry a weapon within the cordon regardless everything from explaining vehicle drills to car and you can’t get out of that car except to of who they were, including CP teams or ordering a take away pizza in the evening. walk into a shop, buy what you need, then walk private security firms, and in a city where it is out to the car again - all with an armed guard not unusual to see a motorcycle pillion with an This tour is classed as arduous and as such the by your side. Some of the UK staff liken it to AK47 across their back, this was a bold move. rate of Living Overseas Allowance is good, but it an open prison, though in prison you would is not classed as arduous for nothing. The BDHC get less power cuts and the internet would be It does not escape notice that every few is housed within a small compound and none faster! So that’s the downside, but the CPTL is weeks there is another major loss of life of the UK staff are permitted outside the gates an incredibly rewarding job. somewhere in Pakistan, such as the Peshawar without an armoured vehicle, a fully trained School shootings and more recently the Sunni driver and an armed guard. Even I had to have The 12 man Sindh police team are a great Mosques that were attacked in Shikarpur and someone with me to go shopping as walking bunch, ever enthusiastic and sponges for Peshawar. These are just the attacks that made anywhere outside the wire is strictly forbidden. anything you can teach them. From the tactical UK news; there are many smaller attacks that The accommodation is good but there are no methods required to secure the Deputy High happen on an almost daily basis. messing facilities, so this was a self catering Commissioners Residence in the event of an tour; luckily I’m not too bad in the kitchen so I attack on the compound, to changing a wheel It’s not just the terrorist related attacks that are didn’t starve, although the supermarkets here on an armoured vehicle. They are kept very of a concern. Gangs are prevalent in Karachi are a little different to those back home. The busy by the boss and his deputy at the various and turf wars are common. Extortion and compound had a small gym, a pool and even a functions in the city, but we managed to kidnapping are also widely used as a means of bar, although only open on Fridays. Not so bad squeeze in regular practical training. They take making money, leading to regular shootouts I hear you say! This place is no Butlins by any great pride in the job they do and enjoy the

8 Provost Parade "No one was permitted to carry a weapon within the cordon regardless of who they were, including CP teams or private security firms, and in a city where it is not unusual to see a motorcycle pillion with an AK47 across their back, this was a bold move. "

kudos plus the extra training and equipment that was supplied to them to do their job. The language barrier doesn’t prove as difficult as you might think after a while, with Pigeon English, lots of pointing and enthusiasm, you can explain pretty much anything. In my wanted to turn up. It was fun for everybody Travel series, it has been on my bucket list. A short time there the team gained confidence and helped to pass the time. tiring but unforgettable experience! and you could physically see the ‘light bulb’ moments when the reason and logic behind a Although there is no R&R for the tour, there was In summary, the Isodet in PK has proved to be new tactic being taught hit home. opportunity for ‘Breather Breaks’ to Islamabad the pinnacle of my CP career to date in the when the DHC was out of country. These RAF Police. Being the first member of the RAF Keeping the guys physically fit is another part few days away in this diplomatic enclave in Police to undertake the det made it even more of the job; we had a good gym, especially Islamabad provided a welcome break and it felt special. Consolidating the skills and knowledge considering the number of UK personnel and like comparing my ‘open prison’ to the Shangri- from the last 22 years, since my basic CP Course location, so made the most of it. The average La! Shops, restaurants, cafés, plus the chance and passing them on to a team who operate Karachi policeman does not have the same to go into town and mooch around the shops daily at the sharp end of the specialisation was diet as his western counterparts, but light was very welcome. To add the icing to this tough at times, but definitely a pleasure and a circuits and regular ‘voluntary’ runs around the particular cake and due to the assistance of my privilege. Any RAF Policemen or women who compound resulted in the team becoming RMP counterpart in the capital, I was able to seek a specialisation that is a little different much fitter than their local police colleagues go on a whistle-stop trip to the Wagah Border and one in which fitness, enthusiasm and self out in the city. Of course, fitness is always a post (between Pakistan and India) and observe motivation are key, will find such reward in good thing within the world of CP. I ran weekly the Closing Ceremony. Ever since Michael Palin CP, together with some unique experiences - I fitness sessions for any of the BDHC staff that covered this spectacle on his famous Himalaya highly recommend Close Protection.

Provost Parade 9 Flt Lt Rob Morter, OC Police & Sy Flt, RAFC Cranwell, attended this year’s Exercise Red Flag. Here is his account of this world renowned combat training exercise in Nevada….

t the start of the year members of the RAF Police deployed on the world’s most intensive air combat training exercise at Nellis Air Force Base, USA. Exercise Red Flag, which has been runningA since 1975, saw 1(F) Sqn Typhoon and 5(AC) Sqn Sentinel aircraft fly twice daily sorties against complex air defences designed to emulate what they would expect to encounter on real operations against near peer adversaries. In support of the sorties, crews were given crucial tactical information from radars and other sensors by aerospace battle managers from 1 Air Control Centre.

With the latest in RAF cutting edge technology on show and some 350 personnel deployed to the base just outside Las Vegas, the task of maintaining security was sure to be a challenging one. In addition, personnel from the Specialist Capability Squadron at RAF Henlow were tasked with ‘red teaming’ the exercise as a means of gauging the security culture of RAF personnel whilst deployed on operations. As Detachment Security , I implemented the security risk management measures detailed in the Operational Security Requirement, produced by Security Consultancy Flight following a recce of the base in 2014. Given the classification of the assets and information deployed, we worked in the knowledge that RAF Police aggressors

10 Provost Parade would be using their skills and expertise to penetrate the UK Forces Area of Operations. Therefore, our main effort was to implement robust physical security measures, backed up by comprehensive orders and TORs. A counter intelligence field team was stood up to reflect the high profile nature of the exercise which inevitably draws interest from foreign intelligence services the world over. Building close relationships with hotel security staff, the local police department and the Office of Special Investigations proved crucial when dealing with policing and security incidents throughout the exercise. As a result of these relationships, I attended the 8th Annual International Gang Conference; a highly regarded event organised by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and attended by numerous policing bodies including the Drug Enforcement Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The conference was delivered by experienced law enforcement officers and focussed on the themes of drugs, counter-surveillance and gang culture. Not only was the conference extremely informative and useful for my personal development, it provided further opportunities for engagement and networking. Of course, there was plenty of work to keep me busy, but despite being on call for the duration of the exercise, I managed to sample some of the attractions that Las Vegas and the surrounding area had to offer. Highlights included World Championship Boxing at the MGM Grand, flying over the Grand Canyon and the Skywalk, the glass floored horseshoe bridge that sits 4,770 feet above the Colorado River.

Deploying on Exercise Red Flag gave me invaluable experience that will stand me in good stead for real life operations. Over the course of the three week exercise, I worked closely with host nation policing and security agencies, the United States Air Force and Royal Australian Air Force. This proved vital in securing the RAF’s assets, information and personnel and undoubtedly strengthened the case for the deployment of RAF Police detachment security staff on future exercises.

Provost Parade 11 The Provost Marshal Welcomes New Police Recruit in Cardiff

A Valleys electrician has been welcomed into the Royal Air Force Police. Scott Young, 36, from Tonyrefail in the Rhondda has joined Wales’ only RAF Reserve squadron as a part-time RAF policeman.

He joined up in November 2014 time ahead of him: “In the and recently took the police oath next few months Number 614 which was administered by the (County of Glamorgan) Squadron Provost Marshal, Group Captain Police personnel will have the “Security is a fundamental principle of war” Kevin Bailey. The ceremony opportunity to work on RAF was held at the headquarters stations directly supporting their of Number 614 (County of regular colleagues or to deploy Glamorgan) Squadron in Cardiff, worldwide on short-term aviation Exercise VOLCANEX just over a year since the unit was tasks. They also can complete re-formed as part of the expansion specialist training in a range of European Air Group, RAF Honington of reserve forces. skills including close protection and crime scene investigations.” The ex-Tonyrefail Comprehensive Flt Lt Stamatakis pupil had served as a full-time RAF Number 614 (County of policeman previously and said: “I Glamorgan) Squadron is looking “Security is the provision and maintenance of an operating environment am looking forward to deploying for anyone considering a part-time that affords the necessary freedom of action, when and where required, overseas and combining my career with the RAF Reserves. to achieve objectives”, so in November 2014, the European Air Group interest in the military and policing (EAG) flexed its muscle and assembled at the Force Protection Centre at in the RAF Police Reserves”. “We have a range of opportunities RAF Honington to test multi-national deployable Force Protection (FP) on offer, everything from chefs integration. Gp Capt Bailey said that Acting to intelligence analysts”, said Corporal Young had an exciting Commander Phil Sagar, the The scenario tested the various nations present which included, amongst Officer Commanding others, Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium and Italy, with Number 614 (County of the British FP force taking a mentoring role. It was FS Close and Flt Lt Glamorgan) Squadron. Stamatakis holding the fort for the RAFP, providing guidance on the “Joining the RAF Reserves outputs we deliver and mentoring the passive and security watch provides fantastic keepers as required. opportunities to develop skills, train, meet new We worked in the operations room within the FP Centre, creating the people and be part of a environment of a Combined Operations Centre (COC), where large team in an organisation elements of capabilities that contribute to FP outputs were streamlined with real direction for one purpose, the security of military life and property. and purpose.” It was evident, as with similar ops room scenarios, that throughout the A number of serving five-day exercise it was going to end in a Neo-apocalyptic situation. It and ex-policemen would require all parts of the COC to be in full stretch, dealing with have recently joined multiple contacts on patrols within the ground defence area, a pregnant the squadron. suicide bomber at the main entry point, local contractors rioting on the main operating base, indirect fire, a fire at the bomb dump and of course Having left the regular a chemical attack thrown in just for good measure - simultaneously! RAF in 2013, Acting Apart from the language barrier from time to time, it was a resounding Corporal Young says he success and bonded the various NATO members that took part. is looking forward to The week re-emphasised how capable the RAFP is as a Force, re-joining the service highlighting the myriad capabilities of flight line security, military working for the adventure and dogs, ops, control of entry and counter intelligence field camaraderie, while still teams along with the deployed tasks delivered by individual nations. keeping his home and The exercise was testament to how pertinent the RAFP are for RAF Force work life in Tonyrefail, Protection operations at home and overseas. giving him “the best of both worlds”.

12 Provost Parade Cpl Phil Cavill, A Flight Green Mountain 1(T)PS, reports on his recent deployment in support of Op GRITROCK…

Having just returned from Christmas grant, I was sent on task to Sierra Leone in support of Op GRITROCK and to the South Atlantic. This was the first trip I had ever taken into Freetown and with all the recent exposure in the media it was sure going to be a task with a difference. I was part of a four-person team deployed to provide Force Protection for a 99 Sqn C-17. Departing RAF Brize Norton in the early hours of the morning, we arrived in Freetown, Sierra Leone, 7 1/2 hours later. Having spoken to colleagues who had previously been to the region they advised me that the local populus were of an inquisitive nature - especially when an RAF C-17 arrives in town. With this in mind we disembarked the aircraft to maintain its security envelope, to protect the crew and ensure that the vital freight was delivered in a safe and secure manner. Notwithstanding the portrayal of the living conditions experienced by its people, it was heartening to see that the airport was modern and well equipped, meaning vital aid could be delivered in support of the international effort AND to tackle the Ebola crisis. It was hot, humid and, although only on the ground for three hours, quite exhausting. Liaison with Host Nation personnel and other agencies proved beneficial as my Having travelled such a long way, the islands at a staggering 2818 I was certainly not going to give Green Turtle in its nesting site, ft. A foot path leads up to the colleagues were right, significant Ascension interest was evident upon our up the opportunity to soak up as old Marine barracks and disused arrival and although not posing a much of the island as possible and water catchment area. There is an threat, required increased vigilance decided to participate in a couple observation point at the top that by all team members. As the rear of team building activities. provides breathtaking views of the ramp of the C-17 started to close I island and surrounding Atlantic took one last look at Freetown and Having had a well deserved sleep Ocean. After a few pictures and felt proud that I had contributed to and hearty breakfast, we decided a much needed water break, we the humanitarian effort. Next stop to go for a gentle walk until we decided to have a slow jog back Ascension Island. came to Lady Hill, which turned down the mountain to ease off the it into a steep hike to the summit stiffness in our legs. concrete foundations can still be Whilst the aircraft continued down of 1079 ft. Lady Hill used to have a military transmitter at the top seen amongst the vegetation The time on the island was well route to the Falkland Islands my which is slowly reclaiming team stayed on Ascension Island. of it during the late 1940s, but spent and after a few days the has since been dismantled. The back the land. Shortly after our C17 returned for the next leg of descent, we were fortunate its route, back into Freetown to enough to meet up with Sgt Vale, pick up some passengers before the island’s resident RAF Police returning to the UK. This time the SNCO, currently on a six-month team split into pairs, one providing detachment. He knew the Island aircraft protection and the other, well, so he very kindly took us to a passenger and baggage security popular destination, Long Beach. processing. With both tasks The beach is home to hundreds of completed in the allotted time, we Green Turtles that visit each year. boarded the aircraft once more, en It is the main nesting site on the route to RAF Brize Norton. Island and is renowned for being one of the largest nesting sites left in the world. With stiff legs from our accent of Lady Hill the day before, the second morning we proved we were gluttons for punishment by deciding to walk up Green C17 at Freetown AP, Sierra Leone Mountain as a team. Green Ascension Island from the air Mountain is the highest point on Provost Parade 13 IT’S ALL IN THE LEAD-UP TO CRUFTS FOR THE ROYAL AIR FORCE POLICE DOGS

The RAF Police Military Working Dog Display Team was busy putting the finishing touches to its showcase performance for Crufts at the NEC Birmingham on the 7th and 8th March. The first Crufts was in 1871, so it’s a show not only steeped in history, but it’s grown into one of the largest in the world, so the pressure was certainly on…

bitterly cold RAF Waddington provided the backdrop to the intense rehearsal schedule for these willingA volunteers who successfully passed a stringent selection process to make the final team. With performances in the main arena on Saturday and Sunday in front of a crowd of up to 5000, the RAF Police handlers and their trusted companions spent hours together to create a crowd-pleasing show that demonstrated their capabilities and professionalism.

“This type of high profile event gives the RAF Police an opportunity to engage with the public and explain about the work we do with the dogs, both in the UK and overseas.” With the on station preparations complete, the full dress rehearsal was in the arena itself. The silence of the empty venue was broken only by the hustle and bustle of the show’s technical crew. The team took to the ring knowing that in a few days, it would be filled with thousands of spectators, plus numerous TV cameras. Crufts differs greatly from the other shows the RAF Police Dogs undertake throughout the year as the audience has a large proportion of experts assessing their every move, so there was a palpable apprehension as this final rehearsal got underway. Sergeant Andy Ackers, based at RAFC Cranwell, was Team Leader and a veteran of dog displays; he was partnered with yellow Labrador, Gabby, an Arms and Explosive Search Dog. He gave the whistle instructions during performance and shared his experiences with his team members to reassure them, saying: “The main thing is to enjoy it. It is Team Manager, Flight Sergeant nerve-racking but those nerves are Steven Hancox, has a long history good to ensure you concentrate with Crufts and first performed and avoid being blasé. Once you there in 1991. He developed the finish a demonstration like this, it’s 2015 display and said: a great feeling and you just can’t wait to do it all again!” “As the team are all volunteers, I set some parameters about what Over the course of the show I’d like to see and asked them to and away from the main arena, go off and do their homework and the general public had ample come back and show me exactly opportunity to interact with what they could do.” members of the team and talk about the role of the RAF Police The handlers were faced with and the life these special partners mastering a marching technique share. designed specifically for these demonstrations for the safety of The commentator for the display, their dogs and similarly, the dogs Flight Sergeant Stephen Penman were challenged with learning summed up his thoughts on to work together. This year also Crufts, saying: saw the team return to wearing full No 1 uniform, something not “This is a great team and I’m really seen at Crufts for a few lucky to work with people like this years. Flight Sergeant every day. For me, this type of high Hancox continues: profile event gives the RAF Police an opportunity to engage with “There’s been lots of work the public and explain about the individually and it’s only work we do with the dogs, both in in the last few days before the UK and overseas.” the show that we all come together to complete the final product. It’s hard work, yet we’ve all enjoyed the challenge.”

Provost Parade 15 The RAF Police provided a Counter Intelligence Field Team (CIFT) for Exercise Bersama, Cpl Ewan Howieson, RAF SIIB(N) (Scot Det), RAF Lossiemouth, has documented his experiences from this Malaysian deployment…

Air to Air Refuelling over Malaysia Typical Georgetown Street

n the 22 Sep 14, Sgt Ritchie Harrison, well as highlighting areas of the city that had SIIB(N), RAFC Cranwell, and I deployed previously caused trouble for RAAF personnel. Oto Penang, Malaysia, to provide CIFT support to 3(F) Sqn from RAF Coningsby. The Our role was Counter Intelligence and we exercise was being held as part of the Five achieved this through overt liaison with Host Power Defence Agreement that involved Nation (HN) authorities, British Embassy staff, the Commonwealth countries of Malaysian, multi-national intelligence agencies and Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. hotel security staffs allowing us to identify any potential security threats and help us to We arrived ahead of the main exercise better protect the deployed Sqn personnel. personnel, after departing London Heathrow We were also able to establish a good working to Kuala Lumpur and then on to Penang. relationship with the RMAF Provost (Police) Although staying on the Island of Penang, staff to ensure smooth and trouble free the Typhoons of 3(F) Sqn would be operating detachment and acted as a conduit with the out of Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base exercise personnel. Butterworth for the duration of the exercise. By the time Sqn personnel had arrived in RMAF Butterworth had previously been RAF location, Sgt Harrison and I were able to Butterworth and opened in October 1941. In brief all personnel on Out of Area locations, December 1941, during the Japanese invasion potential security threats and Malaysian of the Malaysian peninsular, 21 Sqn’s Brewster cultures and laws. The simple wearing of Buffalos had fought a gallant air battle against clothing with numbers on it was identified the superior Japanese Zeros. The station as a problem as numbers are worn by local was also the scene of Flt Lt Scraf taking to gang members to display what gang they are the air in a sole remaining Blenheim bomber a member of. Other problem areas identified Cpl Howieson with RMAF Provost (Police) to attack enemy formations, earning him a were the common use of credit card skimming posthumous VC in the process. These days the devices and motorcycle riding bag snatchers. unit is operated jointly by the RMAF and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), who have a When downtime was afforded, full advantage Squadron of P3 Orions and support personnel was taken to view the local sights. These at the base. included the British WW2 Camp (now a War Museum), a trek into the jungle on Penang Hill, All detachment personnel were a visit to Monkey Beach (where we discovered accommodated in a hotel in Georgetown, that Monkeys would do anything to steal a the capital of Penang Island. Georgetown is drink of Coke!) and a visit to an orangutan a beautiful city with many of the buildings sanctuary. Towards the end of the exercise, Sgt being over 100 years old and being of Colonial Harrison and I were given a flight in a Voyager or Chinese architecture. The journey to on an Air-to-Air refuelling mission, as reward for RMAF Butterworth was via a 40 minute ferry all of our hard work. journey across the straits of Malacca. During one such journey, an attached member of 90 The end of exercise involved a sports Signals Unit, jumped into the water in order to competition, held between exercise and RMAF assist in the rescue of a local civilian who had personnel. Sgt Harrison and I were part of the fallen overboard! winning football and tug-of-war teams. Upon arriving on the unit, Sgt Harrison and I All in all, the exercise was an extremely established contact with the resident RAAF enjoyable and interesting detachment and Police and the Australian Defence Force allowed us to demonstrate what the specialist Investigation Service (Aussie SIB) personnel, SIIB’s CIFT skills can provide a local commander. who briefed us on the current threat levels This niche provides invaluable understanding in the area and suggested areas to avoid. of the ground threats to exercising squadron These personnel also conducted a guided personnel and to the wider RAF when Monkey Beach tour for us which was extremely beneficial as on deployment. RAF Northolt Dog Section RAF Police Prestige Trophy Winners 2014

On behalf of the Provost Marshal (RAF), the Provost The competition, which took place Marshal Dog Inspectorate (PMDI) is required to carry out over the summer annual, formal inspections of every Military Working Dog of 2014, saw Cpl Ross Hedges and Air section throughout the RAF… Dog (AD) Chess, RAF Northolt, being awarded the best individual team across the RAF Police. Cpl Hedges had been working with Chess, a This TECHEVAL process incorporates a Formal Staff Visit, presentation Belgian Malinois, for six months prior to the TECHEVAL. The individual of the RAF Police Dog Section and a three day schedule of day and tests are made up of day and night exercises varying across an array night tests of each eligible RAF Police dog team. A total of 500 points of different areas. Handlers are tested in Criminal Man Work (the bite), are available and teams are awarded individual scores. Calculations Night Defence, Arena (obstacles and obedience), Control (long stay) are done to establish the average for each dog section in the RAF. and Presentation. With a score of 483.5 points, RAF Northolt was crowned champions Due to an upcoming out of area tour, Cpl Hedges will be unable with RAF Brize Norton runners up and RAF Waddington awarded to defend his individual crown, but RAF Northolt will compete third place. nonetheless and attempt to regain the Prestige Trophy in 2015. Flt Lt Nick Marshall Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall

taff Sergeant Michael Thompson, who has been in the MPGS for nine years and is currently serving at RAF Honington, often representsS the Service in events throughout the year. He took part in the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall in London Staff Sergeant Thompson said, duties over the years, including representing the MPGS and 6 “Even though the rehearsal Trooping the Colour and wreath Squadron RAF Police. This was day was long, when it came laying ceremonies at the National especially poignant as the MPGS to the actual performance, Arboretum, “I’m always filled were formally recognised and marching down the stairs and with immense pride when I joined the muster with the Army then on to parade it was a step off to the beat of the drum, for the first time in the MPGS’ fantastic experience”. the audience applauding and history. He has taken part in many public showing their appreciation.”

Provost Parade 17 Trudi’s Troops March Against Cancer

Friday 10th April saw Linda and Norman, plus Trudi’s sister Rachel. members of the RAF The run, which took a total of five Police Professional hours to complete, culminated Standards Department with a lap of Grantham town which made good use of the and 1 PW carry a charity buckets prior to entering stretcher, including a 13 the grounds of Grantham Hospital. It was with tired limbs that the stone dummy, from RAF team arrived, but the welcome they received was second to none College Cranwell the and the feeling of achievement 15 miles to Grantham was clearly evident. The main organiser, Sgt Mark Boulton was Hospital, all to raise funds thrilled with the level of support for two cancer charities. from both the RAF and the general public on route and said, Trudi Pope is suffering from “The generosity of the public was terminal cancer. It was her amazing, cars and lorries stopped determination to do something on the highway to donate money. for both McMillan Cancer Support FS Barrow and Buster were a huge and Cancer Research that led to hit in Grantham and generated a her and her husband, FS Warrick large amount of money.” Pope, to formulate a stretcher run plan. It was not long before his A total of £999.92 was collected RAFP colleagues were involved on the day. Further money has yet with all aspects of organising to be collected from sponsorship the event. which currently tops £500. The team were waved off from The two appeals had been put on RAFC Cranwell by, amongst Facebook with ‘Just Giving’ pages others, FS Will Barrow and his for each charity set up prior to retired arms and explosives RAFP the race, with totals standing at dog, Buster, who assisted in raising over £2500. At the time of writing, awareness. The party of 19 was these had increased to £2985.33. supported by a lead vehicle and If you would like to donate, please a marked RAF Police car with go to www.justgiving.com and flashing lights behind to ensure search for Trudi’s Troops where their safety. The whole Pope family you will see both FS Warrick Pope joined in with children, Taylor and (Cancer Research UK) and his wife Melissa, Trudi’s mother and father, Trudi (McMillan) as fundraisers.

18 Provost Parade Flt Lt Tim Mayes, SO3 Quality & Standards, Defence School of Policing & Guarding (DSPG), describes the poignant and emotional Blessing Service held at DSPG on Sunday 22nd February 2015 in order to commemorate two fallen RAF Police colleagues…

Blessing of RAF Police Memorial Stones at Southwick Park Memorial Chapel

pl David John Shepherd died in The Service was befitting of the occasion Kuwait on 19 May 2003. Cpl Brent and particularly poignant when both families John McCarthy died in Afghanistan came forward for the blessing. Service on 12 May 2012. Both were well- representatives from the RAF Police, RMP and respected and professional RAF then read out names from PolicemenC who were serving on active duty. their respective Roll of Honour. Befitting of their ultimate sacrifice, it was resolved they should be commemorated A curry lunch followed proceedings in the in an appropriate manner and their names Officers’ Mess which provided an informal inscribed on individual memorial stones within opportunity for future, serving and past Southwick Park Memorial Church. members of the trade and branch to interact with each other and the families. A local stonemason was approached and the two stones commissioned. Word was put out amongst the serving and retired RAF Flt Lt Mayes wishes to thank the following Police community, with a request to raise individuals and organisations who were funds towards the cost. Overwhelmingly, involved with the creation and funding of the many people became involved and the memorial stones, plus the Blessing Service: associated costs were swiftly raised. A date The Reverend (Gp Capt) Wright and the was set for the unveiling and Blessing Service, Reverend (Maj) McWhirter. Annabelle Ryan which coincided with the annual RAF Police and her team from Town & Country Memorials. Association (RAFPA) Church service - this would The RAFP community, particularly Sqn Ldr include the families of Cpl Shepherd and Cpl Mildon, Sgt Sarah Eva, FS Keith Davies, Sgt McCarthy. Lee Parkinson’s father, ex RAFP Dog Handlers hosted by OC 1 PW, RAF Waddington’s Dog Parents, Rod and Sylvia Shepherd, and John Section, RAF Waddington’s Police Club under and Sarah McCarthy, arrived the day prior and Flt Lt Malpas, Sgt Page and Sgt Parkinson. were hosted in the Officers’ Mess overnight by Finally, RAFPA, especially the Hants, Dorset and Gp Capt Kevin Bailey, PM (RAF), and Officers Isle of Wight and Wiltshire Branches. from DSPG. Gp Capt Wright next to the two The two families were taken to the Chapel Stone Memorial Plaques in order to have a private viewing of the memorial stones, prior to the Blessing the Reverend (Maj) McWhirter, DSPG. Also in Main photo: Air Cdre Hall and Gp Capt Bailey, Service. This was clearly an emotional part attendance was AO FP, Air Cdre Hall, MBE, and with Mr and Mrs McCarthy (right of Air Cdre of the day and both families expressed their PM(RAF), Gp Capt Bailey. Moreover, there were Hall) and Mr and Mrs Shepherd (left and overwhelming gratitude that their sons had nearly 200 serving and retired members of the behind Air Cdre Hall), together with Mr Brian been commemorated in such a manner. RAF Police, plus Phase 2 RAF Police students and representatives from the Army and Navy. Flinn, National Chairman of RAFPA, and The Blessing Service was officiated by The RAF Police Personnel had travelled from all RAFPA Standards outside of the Southwick Reverend (Gp Capt) Tim Wright, Deputy corners of the country, particularly those who Park Memorial Chapel. Chaplain-in-Chief Operations, AIR Cmd, and had served with David and Brent.

Provost Parade 19 20 Provost Parade

Free, lifelong support available for blind and vision impaired ex- Service personnel

79-year-old Tony Harbour volunteered with Blind Veterans UK for over 20 years, but in 2012, he needed the charity’s support Force Development Day himself as he lost his sight to glaucoma.

Ex-Corporal Tony to the National Arboretum served in the RAF Police from 1953 On Tuesday 10th March We intended to visit the main to 1961, stationed Armed Forces Memorial to honour in Gibraltar and 2015, 1 and 2 sections from lost friends, however a parade the UK. After a the RAF Cosford MPGS meant we were unable to enter few years Tony so the only view we were afforded was promoted. took part in a section force was from outside. development day, visiting After leaving the The memorial is a stunning piece RAF, Tony moved the National Arboretum at of architecture with two massive to Brighton Alrewas in Staffordshire, curved and two straight stone to set up his kindly organised by Cpl walls containing the names of the own business fallen who are honoured here. and started ‘Shuggy’ Hoskins. The centrepiece is two bronze volunteering for sculptures to represent loss and Blind Veterans Arriving to beautiful sunshine and sacrifice and these stand either UK. Years on, Tony a perfect blue sky, we grabbed a side of a bronze laurel wreath. began to notice quick brew before gathering in his own eyesight front of the Basra Wall Memorial. To the north a serviceman is raised starting to on a stretcher by comrades and deteriorate, and opposite is the body of a warrior was diagnosed Cpl Hoskins then proceeded to being prepared for burial. with glaucoma. give us an insight into the The National Aboretum. The memorial is definitely worth Tony was a visit, especially on the 11th registered blind Planning began in 1997, with the November where at the eleventh in 2009 and said: site opening to the public in May hour the suns rays stream “When I lost my 2001. It has become a very special through the door of the sculpture sight I found place honouring those who have illuminating the wreath. myself in a black served, and continue to serve our hole that I didn’t nation. The 150 acre site offers a We spent a couple of hours know how to get beautiful and peaceful place to exploring the grounds, in small out of. I wasn’t myself and I did Veterans UK helped tremendously remember loved ones, particularly groups or individually. Due to our not want to know the world and - it is a wonderful charity.” those who made the ultimate varied military backgrounds, we all the fact that I knew about Blind sacrifice for their country. The had memorials specific to us. Blind Veterans UK is the national focus isn’t entirely military though, charity for blind and vision there is a large area dedicated Although disappointed we were impaired ex-Service men and to police, fire and rescue and unable to visit the main memorial, women and provides free, ambulance services plus charities it was a valuable and rewarding lifelong support to help veterans representing those who have day and we look forward to visiting overcome the challenges of sight died, including children. The National Arboretum again. loss, regardless of how or when they lost their sight. Blind Veterans UK provides specialist rehabilitation, training, equipment and emotional support both at home via a network of welfare officers and at the charity’s three centres in Brighton, Sheffield and Llandudno, North Wales. If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces or did National Service and is now experiencing severe sight loss, call freephone 0800 389 7979 or visit www.noonealone.org.uk.

22 Provost Parade Whilst providing the daily L-R: FS Dawn Bellingham, Cpl Dan Hill, Sgt Chris Jennings, Cpl Paul Atherton duties expected, the RAF (Jason Statham look-a-like stunt double), Cpl Jenni Haigh, Cpl Mark Truman Police and Security Flt at RAF Halton was also preparing for the Milton Keynes Half Marathon on 8 March 2015…

he FS and Cpls were involved in weeks of training to prepare for the challenge of the 13 mile circuit around Milton Keynes. The team was: FS DawnT Bellingham, Sgt Chris Jennings, Cpl Jenni Haigh, Cpl Daniel Hill, Cpl Paul Atherton, Cpl Pete Coulson and Cpl Mark Truman. The team’s aim was to raise awareness and support for Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund (RAFBF) and give something back to this worthwhile charity. The RAFBF spends £18 million each year supporting up to 60,000 RAF personnel, past and present. However, as an independent charity they receive no government funding so rely entirely on our support to continue their outstanding work. Training through all weather in the earlier months of the year, the team managed to get a number of gruelling training sessions together, to ensure the best physical shape for the up coming event. It also helped to work off that extra Christmas turkey poundage! Battling through a number of injuries, the team was determined to put on a good show and collect as many sponsors as possible. There was an onset of realisation for everyone after sponsored running vests courtesy of the RAFBF arrived. On a cool cloudy Sunday morning, each member of the team relaxed, We felt the urge to train harder nerves began to show as we made some taking long hot baths and some once we’d received our individual our way to Milton Keynes. We enjoying a drink or two, either way competitor’s numbers from the gathered at the start line, took a few was well deserved. race organisers. photos and then we were off! The atmosphere was so encouraging, Although the MK Half may have with people of all ages lining the tried and tested the members of RAF route, cheering, clapping and offering Halton’s Security Flight, it provided sweets. Although we did not all a level which we can now aspire stay together, our thoughts were too when maintaining our levels of with each other as we put in a huge operational fitness. With the RAFP effort to get a good time, mostly for tempo and some team members bragging rights. recently returning from operations, we were aware that training for the For the next couple of arduous MK Half was not quite as gruelling as it hours the team trudged along the could have been due to their already un-forgiving route. Pounding the high levels of fitness. tarmac with each step, every member looked forward to seeing the golden A few of the team members had arch marking the finish line - not previously completed other charity McDonalds! events. Cpl Truman took part in a 453 mile ‘Spinathon’ for Combat Stress, A large crowd had gathered on the marking the number of British deaths home straight, cheering and clapping in Afghanistan during Op Herrick. in all the athletes, making that final Cpl Atherton completed a Marathon drive that little bit more rewarding. under the hot Afghanistan sun in Cpl Atherton came in with the Kabul during Herrick 20 in 2014. quickest time, becoming the reigning Some of the team are looking forward champion for the RAF Police and to the future with aims to take part in Security Flt. the Great North Run later in 2015. Gathering at the end to compare At the end of it all, the team was aches and pains and to boost our proud to have taken part and raise energy, thoughts turned to how awareness and funds for the RAFBF. difficult it would be to move the We look forward our next challenge. following morning. With that in mind, Provost Parade 23 The Calcutta Cup - FLAG BEARING Cpls Botfield, Gittings and Laird of 1(T)PS, RAF Henlow, were given the opportunity to be flag bearers for the England vs Scotland Six Nations Rugby Union clash. Of course, all three jumped at this opportunity. The three NCOs represent the RAF Police at Rugby Union, so embraced the chance to see the best of the English and Scottish battle it out at Twickenham Stadium for the Calcutta Cup…

Game time. It was 1700hrs and the stands were full with 82,248 patriots supporting their nations. The Cpls took their positions and revealed the England flag, this was displayed to the stadium, walked around half of the pitch, before being laid out on the Twickenham turf to watch the two nations enter through the players tunnel accompanied by pyrotechnics. ‘The Flower of Scotland’ was played first and concluded with a roar from the crowd. Next, ‘God Save The Queen’ started and the whole stadium erupted. Observing the stands you could see individuals belting out the anthem with pride. Once concluded, it was time to for the de- rigging, this consisted of jogging off the pitch carrying the flag via North East gate. The flag bearing duties were complete and the Cpls were rewarded with second row seats to watch as England beat Scotland 25- 13, retaining the Calcutta Cup.

ame day and the three Cpls departed Henlow for the exciting time ahead. We met for a briefing and rehearsals where there was a bit of nervousness as to whether we would be bearing the English or Scottish flag. Volunteers were asked for the Scottish flag and I could see the others hands remained fixed Gby their sides. Those that volunteered were placed on the Scottish flag and we took our places on the England flag. The rehearsals consisted of reveal, walk around, national anthems and de-rigging, which were all straight forward but required a few practice runs to prevent anyone embarrassing themselves on live television. The final practice run was on the Twickenham pitch, so we took the opportunity for a few souvenir photos. It was after this, we were released to explore the stadium until 1600hrs.

The RAFP Rugby Club has an online shop for the procurement of high quality training clothing, Rugby Kits and Team wear… All purchases can be made through the following link and profits raised from the sales go towards the RAF Benevolent Fund. Left is picture of this seasons 7s kit available from the club shop: http://silverbacksport.mybigcommerce.com/raf-police-rugby/ For more information on playing, kit and all things RAFP Rugby contact: OIC: Flt Lt Jono Colley. 95771 6160 DOIC: Sgt Justin Coleman. 93835 4343 Exec Dir: Sqn Ldr Dan Sammut. 95221 6367

24 Provost Parade IN THE

In January FS Gaz Longley, Sgt Geoff Bratt and Cpl Dan Burton participated in the RAF Alpine Ski and Snowboard Championships in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria. Cpl Burton took timeout when arriving home to compile this report....

pon arrival at Salzburg airport there All participants in the championships was a horrible sinking feeling in our had to complete at least one race, stomachs as there was no snow which was fine for Geoff and I as on the ground, but thankfully we we’d booked to enter the Fiacaill were informed there would be Snowboard Giant Slalom. This race Usnow at our resort just over an hour away. Our was situated on a nice mild red run journey began and as we grew closer to our that instilled confidence in the both destination, we could see the white stuff - of us. However, Gaz had allowed much to our relief. As we entered our resort, Geoff to book his race for him and we saw hundreds of figures on the mountain was booked on to the Individual enjoying the snow. Bags were unpacked, kit Giant Slalom. This was located on a was prepared and some social time began. slope that looked more like a vertical drop than a traditional red run and Skip to the next morning and the fresh powder it goes without saying he wasn’t was ready for our winter sports prowess, even too impressed! if our heads weren’t! Cue wobbly legs for the two snowboarders, with Gaz looking on with a Competition day was upon us smirk standing tall on his sticks. The day was full and we parted ways to attend our of tentative snowboarding and the odd edge races. Gaz’s race was first and when arriving being caught, but it was all good practice for at the start line, he noted a fair number of his our races to come. adversaries dressed head to toe in Lycra. He is a confident recreational skier, but he now had to race members of the RAF Ski Team. The time arrived for him to complete his first run; out of the gate he flew, feeling more and more confident as he progressed through the course. Upon crossing the finish line he decided to forfeit the second run to allow him to watch Geoff and my race. This was a decision he would regret however when checking the results that evening as he’d been disqualified for missing a gate. His excuse was that he was going so fast he didn’t notice! Geoff and I arrived at the starting point for our race and after close inspection of the course, we settled into watching other competitors before our turn. I was first to race and as I stood at the top of the start line my heart was beating rapidly, my main goal was to win the inter-section competition between myself and Geoff. As I flew down the course in my head I was Shaun White when in reality I probably looked like Barry White! Geoff was next and shot out of the start and flew through the course with no falls or major errors. We completed our second runs, both making mistakes, with me falling at one of the gates. Once I’d completed my run, we checked our times and noticed I was running third overall with five runners to go. This led to a nail biting end with both Geoff and I hoping for mistakes from all of the runners. Unfortunately for me, the penultimate runner had a blinding run dropping me to fourth, but at least I had bragging rights over Geoff. It was then out for some après ski to reflect on the trip and the time we had spent in the Alps.

Provost Parade 25 The wait was over, the preparations done and the day everyone thought would never materialise had arrived. The RAF Police Football Club was setting out to compete in the World Police Soccer 7’s with an early February Sunday morning start for the team’s 12 players. Due to current operations and other work commitments, the squad was far from a first team, but it did contain a wealth of experience… RAFP FC USA Tour and Kennedy Space Centre Visit

he journey to Orlando rules between everyone involved began. The anticipation with the tournament. Losing the and banter about lead however did not diminish who we’d play in the our confidence, but the match tournament was on top concluded with a 2-2 draw, formT as this was the first time showing us that the teams were of entering. Arriving in Orlando no soft touch and we needed to made everything seem real and retain our concentration until the the realisation hit home that we final whistle. were finally there. For the RAFP team, the rest The first day was a late start for us periods between games was to get used to the time difference a massive factor against us - and to have sufficient rest from waiting up to an hour and half the long journey. We explored our with our bodies stiffening. This surroundings as a team to build resulted in us taking a while to a strong bond for the upcoming get back into rhythm when we tournament. started our next game against the tournament favourites and Tuesday evening was tournament reigning champions, Sweden. registration, with all teams invited After a disappointing first half, to attend the Hilton hotel to sign our motivational half-time break up and socialise. Only a few teams ensured we went out and played attended however, but that was for pride knowing we could enough to see we were playing do much better, so the second against teams a lot younger than half was a much more closely us. The Swedish team in particular contested affair. had more sponsor logos on their tracksuits than a Formula Our final game on day one One team and had just as many was against Clermont Police backroom staff as they did players! Dept and was a different game The omens did not look good. altogether, either from stiff legs, or the opposition, the game was The opening ceremony allowed a lot slower and we came out teams to be introduced, along comfortable 6-2 winners. It was with delegates and VIPs including after this that all teams went back the Major of Clermont and the to their new HQ to share food and Chief of Police of Clermont, who drink supplied by the tournament was one of the star players of sponsors, plus it afforded an the tournament. Both the prayer opportunity to engage socially by the US Police padre and the with all teams away from national anthem were respected the pitch. by all teams. Won one, lost one, drew one, not Our first match was against the a bad start to the tournament and Chicago Police Department. The that night we treated ourselves heat and humidity didn’t help, so to watch another professional the roll-on, roll-off substitution sport, the NBA game between rule turned out to be essential. Orlando Magic and Miami Heat, a It was played at a frantic pace local derby. throughout; it felt like we all wanted to be Real Madrid! Day two’s first game was against Brazil. Unlike their professional The RAFP had the lead at half teams, Brazil was a more veteran time but we lost this following team and due to day one injuries a perfectly timed sliding tackle and their slow style of play, we that we discovered was not took advantage and strolled to a allowed. There was an evident 3-0 victory with three very good lack of understanding for the goals. The next match, against 26 Provost Parade New Jersey Law Enforcement, was social event organised by the a completely different story and tournament for teams to socialise we soon found ourselves with and unwind. our backs against the wall. Two late goals meant the game ended Day three and the last round of in a disappointing 2-0 defeat league matches had arrived; our and knowing we could have final match against Belgium was won made the loss even harder. ‘winner takes all’ for a place in the However New Jersey made the championship semi-final. After effort to socialise and often came an encouraging start, injuries over to us in between games so and tiredness took its toll and they had our respect. we eventually succumbed to a narrow defeat, meaning that Our final game was against we would be competing in the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, Plate Final. a team revered as the underdogs, but because of the losses we Our opposition were Seminole accumulated we took nothing for County Sheriff’s Office who had granted and made sure of the win beaten Clermont to earn their with a more determined display spot. Having comfortably beaten ending in a 3-1 score line. That them ourselves on day one, night we reflected on the days confidence was high; too high results by attending and evening with our complacency resulting in

us finding ourselves 2-0 down at Once the football had half time. With some inspirational concluded, we undertook a Force half-time motivation, the RAFP Development visit to Kennedy came out and after some cool Space Centre and Cape Canaveral finishes and we found ourselves US Air Force base, a day that back in the game with 2-2 at full was enjoyed by all and provided time. It was in overtime that our us with a great insight into the player-manager came up with the history and future of space travel Golden Goal and we were able to and the role of the RAF. lift the Plate winner’s trophy.

Report produced by Cpl Martin Edwards, Cpl Sean Gailey and Cpl Raymond Gregory

RAF POLICE ADVENTUROUS TRAINING AND FORCE DEVELOPMENT

AT & FD provides a medium for Service personnel to hone Expedition Reports and Photographic Supplements have been included these skills in an environment directly comparable with the to assist you, both as a participant and organiser of future AT. operational environment. In addition, AT plays a direct role We have an experienced team of RAF Police instructors, who are available in forging and reinforcing the RAF’s ethos, core values and to assist you. If you have an AT qualification or have copies of other approved AT & FD JSATFAs & AOs, send them to Sgt Mark George RAFP- standards. HQITSNCO.

The RAF Police web page is designed to sign post RAF Police towards http://defenceintranet.diif.r.mil.uk/Organisations/Orgs/RAF/ AT opportunities available from RAF Eagle Schemes and RAF Police led expeditions. JSATFAs, AOs, Major and Minor Expedition flow charts, Post Organisations/Orgs/RAFPolice/Pages/RAFP%20FD%20AT.aspx

Provost Parade 27 Cyprus Joint Police Unit - Community Policing Team By Cpl Palmer, (RMP)

Following the RAFP lead, Cyprus Joint Police Unit (CJPU) is focusing significant time and resources on Community Policing, having identified a need for increased community engagement across the stations and units in Cyprus…

Four Community Police Officers cover the Western Sovereign Base Area (WSBA) and Eastern Sovereign Base Area (ESBA) providing a visible and reassuring presence. Accessible by everyone, from serving personnel and their families to local shop owners, we are making a tangible difference in the community. In the WSBA Sgt Campbell, RAFP and I perform a diverse range of tasks to support the community. This is mirrored in the ESBA with Cpls Southern and Thomson, both RAFP, supporting all manner of station events. Recent activity has included providing alcohol awareness lessons and a crime scene workshop in the schools. Community police stations located in both the ESBA and WSBA assist us in engaging and act as a focal point for members of the community to report issues or seek advice. Crime Prevention Advice Road Safety Campaign We offer a range of services to help reduce the number of crimes that occur, some of which are easily preventable. We offer advice on a range The Cyprus Road Safety Campaign is committed to reducing the risk of subjects from how to secure homes, work places and vehicles to of casualties on and around roads, ensuring child safety when walking measures that tackle anti-social behaviour. to and from schools and increasing overall awareness. With the recent reduction in school buses this campaign has come at a pivotal time for To enable us to understand the community better, the team provides (BFC) and as such has been keenly supported by crime reduction surveys and operates an official Facebook group, station commanders, the schools and most importantly, by the children. allowing the community to discuss and highlight any non criminal As part of the campaign we are carrying out Bikeability courses to raise issues that they may be concerned about. This has proven to be a very cyclist’s awareness including knowledge of the Highway Code, basic road successful tool for service families, supporting their engagement in the safety and traffic awareness. community and creating a safer BFC. The campaign is being supported and delivered in association with British Cycling. The team has been handing out advice and information Supporting Station Events leaflets to all road users along with high visibility vests and accessories to The Community Police Team, as a CJPU representative, often attends ensure that cyclists are seen. public events including fairs and fetes, bonfires and ceremonial functions. Every year we police a large number of events, the vast majority of which

28 Provost Parade are entirely peaceful and go without issue. Policing all of these can be a challenge and there is always a balance to be struck between facilitating an event and avoiding disrupting those not involved. These events are normally high profile and let the community see that Service Police are there to support the community.

Support to Schools - Crime Scene Workshop In February children from years 5 and 6 at Dhekelia Primary School were given the opportunity to take part in a special crime scene workshop led by the ESBA Community Police Team. Following a ‘break in’ of their classroom, the children were taught how to conduct an investigation and about the importance of forensic evidence. They learned how to take fingerprints and under careful instruction from Cpls Southern and Thompson, how to work out the height of an intruder based on their footprint. Using their new found skills, the children then investigated the crime scenes and gathered as much evidence as possible, being careful not to contaminate the area. The lesson was a resounding success, with further workshops now being planned for the near future with other classes and schools.

Whenever the topic the BFC community in order to determine and maintain an up-to- of RAFP jobs in date picture of the environment Never a SLO Day Cyprus comes up in in which our personnel live, work and socialise and crucially, conversation, there is understand the security threats often a misconception that we face. Cyprus offers a host in the Office with of opportunities (and of course that the options are a pleasant climate) for personnel limited to either Cyprus and their families that can’t be matched elsewhere, but the the RAFP Security Joint Police Unit, or ATSy threats are real and often unique. and Dogs at Akrotiri. In order to gain that detailed Some of us have heard understanding of the threat, SLOs Liaison Officers of the Cyprus Joint maintain a network of contacts across the Sovereign Base Areas Security Unit (CJSU), and the Republic of Cyprus (RoC). in Cyprus but often mistakenly The range of contacts is extremely think that it’s just about diverse - from owners of local bars and restaurants to personnel general PS support for from the RoC Police and Cypriot the island - however government officials. The treaty of Sgt Jon Carpenter establishment allows us to wear there is far more to it. civilian clothing at all times when conducting our duties around the Having been asked about it many island, though all of our contacts explains why... times, I’d like to shine a light on are made aware that they are one particular aspect of CJSU’s dealing with a member of the work that is often misunderstood British Service Police. As SLOs, we - the role of the Security Liaison are very much the public face of Officer (SLO) and how we support BFC and we take this responsibility British Forces Cyprus (BFC) and extremely seriously. how we fill our days here on this sunny island. Through networking, we have successfully mitigated numerous Cyprus Joint Security Unit is Force Protection vulnerabilities to exactly what it sounds like, a BFC personnel and forged strong joint unit made up of primarily relationships across the island. RAF Police and Army Int Corps Working hours can at times be personnel, with a few additional anti-social, however if you enjoy supporting cap badges. The unit having some variety to your has a remit to provide security day, making a direct operational support to the British military contribution, getting out and community across Cyprus and about and are comfortable as such has two teams of SLO conversing with people from all sergeants, based in the Eastern cultural backgrounds, then this Sovereign Base Area (ESBA) and could be the job for you. Western Sovereign Base Area (WSBA), headed up by two FS If your background is PS or SIB, team leaders. the only prerequisites for the role are the successful completion of As a trade, Service Police have a the one week Defence Debriefing naturally inquisitive nature, an Course held at Chicksands and a eye for detail and the knowhow suitability interview. If you would to talk to people from a range of like further information, or a backgrounds; this is key to SLO forecast on potential vacancies, work. The role of the SLOs is to then please contact the Team on establish contacts in and around 94120 6178/6135.

Photo: Front row, left to right: Sgt Andrew Haines, FS Mandy Brooks, Sgt Chris Rose. Rear row, left to right: Sgt Gary Clive, FS Al Macdonald, Sgt Jon Carpenter

Provost Parade 29 Wondering what’s been Initial Training Squadron Following the much needed Christmas stand down period, ITS hit the ground running with a full compliment of courses, with a RAFPIC happening at the Defence and IMP both starting in early January. Couple that with a turn of the wheel for the OC, 2IC and SSM, it was a busy first few weeks back! Just to add to that perfect storm, during day two of the new School of Policing and OC’s handover; Ofsted arrived on camp! As you can imagine they concentrated most of the inspection on ITS staff and students which Guarding? Wonder no more made the Christmas grant feel like a distant memory. The outgoing OC, Maj G Chetwynd has deployed to the Middle East with these updates… and has been replaced by Sqn Ldr D Bright. The outgoing 2IC, Flt Lt DSPGG Brockie, has been replaced by Capt C Vogel with the Flt Lt covering as DSPG Adjutant until being posted.

Prior to Christmas the students and Pl staff made an outstanding effort for the charity muster parade, sporting some very good DSPG Headquarters costumes. These costumes also made an appearance at the annual Christmas turkey trot, ran by the gym. DSPG HQ started the New Year with a long anticipated Ofsted inspection; this consisted of a two-person team carrying out an Inspection of the Unit over a two day period. The inspection team testified to a very positive experience with exceptionally positive feedback from the 50+ students they interviewed. On departure, they delivered a written hot debrief detailing that the Unit had been graded overall as a ‘good’, with two ‘goods’ and an ‘outstanding’ in the three Ofsted pillars, Outcomes for recruits and trainees; Quality of Welfare and Duty of Care and The Effectiveness of Leadership and Management. DSPG welcomes Sqn Ldr Chris Collins, who has taken up post as the new COS and WO Al McGinley, who arrives on promotion from RAF Leeming as DSPG’s Career Management Warrant Officer. DSPG also bid farewell to WO Phil Essex who has retired from the RAF after almost 32 years service at the end of Mar. We wish him well for his new life in Australia. ITS Charity Christmas Muster Parade

ITS have graduated another Flt since the last edition of the Provost Parade, in Feb Netheravon Flight were presented with their Warrant Cards by PM(RAF) and for the first time, we had to utilise our wet weather programme. We welcome the following Airmen into the Trade; A/Cpl Belgrau 1 TPS A/Cpl Bailey RAF Wyton A/Cpl Blakey RAF Coningsby A/Cpl Bowers RAF Halton A/Cpl Chaplin 1 TPS A/Cpl Clarkson-Kearsley 1 TPS A/Cpl Dixon RAF Northolt A/Cpl Elgar 1 TPS A/Cpl Fisk RAF Lossimouth A/Cpl Flaherty RAF Brize Norton A/Cpl Free RAFC Cranwell A/Cpl Forbes 1 TPS A/Cpl Greensmith RAF Halton A/Cpl Harrison RAF Cosford A/Cpl King RAF Waddington A/Cpl Lyons RAFC Cranwell A/Cpl Morrall RAF High Wycombe A/Cpl Richards RAF Odiham A/Cpl Roberts RAFC Cranwell A/Cpl Samuel 1 TPS A/Cpl Shurmer 1 TPS A/Cpl Schneeberger RAF Lossimouth

Advanced Training Squadron Advanced Training Squadron (ATS) welcomes Flt Lt Wayne Edwards, as OC Security Training Flight / OC RAFPOC, plus FS Dave Donnelly and Sgt Tracey Barrow, both posted in from Cyprus. As a result, we said goodbye to Sgt Simon Hayward and Cpl Adrian ‘Pedro’ Jose who returned to RAF stations. ATS also graduated a RAFPOC since the last edition and we welcome the following Junior Officers to the Branch; Flt Lt Scales - DSAS - RAF Wyton Fg Off Blears - C Flt TPS Fg Off Collo - OC Police RAF Cosford Fg Off Cornick - OC Police RAF Leeming Fg Off Kynaston - HQ RAFP A3 Fg Off McConkey - RAF High Wycombe (holding) - OC Police RAF Honington (from Sept) Graduating RAFPOC

30 Provost Parade Exercise Southwick Salient Environmental Training During the first week of Mar a group from across DSPG, conducted a WW1 Battlefield Study of the Somme, Ypres, Vimy, Arras to name but a - If you wear a MP Patch, chances are few. Although primarily focussed on the land battles, the RAF members managed to visit and lay a cross at the Flying Memorial at Arras. you’ve had to do it! Cpl Pete Redden ITS, DSPG explains…

"Do you want to be a cop, or do you want to appear to be a cop? " - Martin Sheen, The Departed.

What is it? In Environmental Training, there is nowhere to hide. You are laid bare to all the possible elements and scenarios that could face you on arrival to your new unit. There are no ‘theft of a towel’ case files here, no ‘stolen lettuces.’ Instead you are faced with a brutal assault, malicious criminal damage, stealing of property worth hundreds of pounds, screaming domestic disturbances or reprobates dealing drugs. This is as close to the real thing as you can get, if you are not well versed in your legislation, if you are not fully prepared to get your hands dirty, get stuck in and work as a team, you will be found wanting and you will not be deemed fit enough to be a Service policeman or policewoman. You cannot hide behind your patrol partner or be the grey man on this occasion, you have to stand up and be counted. You want to police Her Majesty’s Forces? You complete ‘Enviros.’

The Process During ‘ET’s’ you are split down into shifts and work a two day ‘early’ and ‘mid’ rotation pattern with two days rest. The police station is run by the Desk NCO, with an Ord Sgt there to nudge students in the right direction should they require it. Patrols are constant, with students on edge knowing that their next tasking could be an assessment. It’s nerve wracking and can be intense, but the students seem to thrive on the excitement. “When on patrol and I first hear the radio, nerves kick in straight away not knowing what job I am being tasked to. Once you do know, you just try and run through in your head the process you are Flt Lt’s Brockie and Edwards with A/Sgt’s Richards and Whyte going to take once you arrive on the scene. When I get there and start dealing with the incident, the nerves die down and I become a We also managed to visit the spot where the 1914 Christmas Truce was little more relaxed.” - AC Lewis Armer, Debden 14/002. held. Credit goes to Capt James ‘Jimmy’ Rose RMP, whose father served in the RAFP and retired as a Gp Capt. Students are tested on dealing with domestic disturbances, stop and searches, RTI’s, case file management and statement taking. If they don’t meet the required standard at the first time of asking they are given a period of remedial training and retested.

The Surroundings The environment students are placed in is made as real as possible, from the layout of the police station and search rooms, to a fully functioning bar (minus the alcohol!). The front door at 13 Fortitude Avenue has been forcefully entered on hundreds of occasions, once in there you will find a fully equipped living room, kitchen and bedroom just waiting to be searched. Once the suspects have been apprehended they need an interview after caution and that can be done in one of three fully functioning interview rooms, all being monitored from the invigilation suite by Environmental Training staff.

The End Product The culmination of 13 weeks of learning and preparation is often thought of as the most exciting and challenging phase of training. Those students who attain the high standard required, come through the long and gruelling process with that first bit of experience, albeit simulated, but experience nonetheless. They’re more confident, more determined and better equipped to deal with being in a position of responsibility that becoming a JNCO in the Service Capt Rose RMP laying a Cross at Sgt Wigley-Jones’ (Corps of Military Police) Police brings. grave, Arras You get two attempts here… you get one out there.

Provost Parade 31 DSPG AND RAFPA RECEIVE AWARDS

he Provost Marshal, Gp Capt Kevin Bailey, took the opportunity to and was in honour of DSPG’s continued support to RAFPA events. announce several awards at the recent RAF Police Association’s Gp Capt Bailey announced the 2014 winners of the De Putron Charity Annual Church Service at Southwick Park. Attendance was Trophy was No 5 Sqn RAF Police, for their expeditious and exceptional particularly high this year due to the Blessing Service of the efforts in raising money for the RAF Police Memorial Stones. The formal Tmemorial stones for Cpl David Shepherd and Cpl Brent McCarthy. presentation would be made in April. The President’s Trophy for Outstanding Support to the RAF Police Finally, Air Cdre Hall presented Mr Brian Flinn with a new badge of Office Association (RAFPA) over the last 12 months was awarded to the Defence so as to denote his role as Chairman of the National RAFPA, thanking him School of Policing and Guarding (DSPG) and was presented by Air Cdre for the outstanding efforts in the role over the last year. Hall MBE, AO FP. This was the first time that the prize had been awarded

Wg Cdr Bland, Comdt DSPG, receiving The Presidents Trophy for Support to Mr Brian Flinn, Chairman of the National RAF Police Association, receiving his the RAFPA from Air Cdre Hall, MBE, AO FP. Badge of Office from Air Cdre Hall, MBE, AO FP.

32 Provost Parade CSI Miami, Las Vegas, New York… Henlow!

The Scientific Support Lab has a new investigation tool that will be a great aid to RAF Police investigations and wider Force capabilities…

The latest Crime Scene tool is a 360º The process of capturing the 360º crime scene having to enter the area, thus reducing the risk photography capability, which allows us to image is quite a simple task; the hard part is of cross contamination. It is also a permanent record crime scenes using ‘still’ photography the stitching together of the image to make a representation of the scene that can be utilised techniques that produce a versatile image continuous uninterrupted picture. To achieve for briefings or played in court proceedings. which can be moved and directed to capture this, a ‘clean space’ is created, normally in the all areas of a scene and effectively produce a centre of the crime scene, ensuring that the Although the equipment is designed primarily virtual tour. camera tripod does not interfere with any for CSI use, there are wider applications across evidence. Once positioned the camera sits the Force, such as surveying work, planning, The advances in this equipment includes an upon the tripod and the special collar. plus it can be utilised as a briefing tool. There updated fish eye lens and a special collar which are no operating costs associated with this fits onto a bespoke tripod, but, the clever part The image is gradually recorded as the collar is equipment and it can be easily deployed by a comes from a computer ‘stitching program’ a rotated through 360º. Once the photography CSI. which joins the three to five images together to is completed, the images are processed produce the 360º image. through the computer and sewn together. If you require more information or have a task The images can be interfaced with other areas where you think 360º photography could be of the scene, for example adjoining rooms or utilised contact the Scientific Support Lab at entry / egress points. RAF Henlow 95381 7629. With the use of the computer mouse, a virtual Sgt Tim Puttick tour can be conducted and key features can be remotely examined through the zoom Below is an image of the RAF Police museum facility. A virtual tag can be added to illustrate utilising the 360º camera system, which or explain pertinent areas of the scene. The illustrates the quality and dynamics of the benefit of this equipment is that the crime equipment. scene can be viewed without the investigators

360º Tripod Collar Fish Eye lens

RAFP Children Passing Out

On 3rd April 2015, two children of RAF Policeman passed out at a parade at HMS Raleigh…

Thea will go onto further training at HMS Drake Thea Puttick and Joe Trevorrow passed out with as a Meteorologist with Joe training at HMS proud parents, Sgt Tim Puttock and FS Jason Collingwood as a Weapons Engineer. Trevorrow in attendance.

Provost Parade 33 Historical Snowdrop Snippets By Stephen R Hingeley-Davies

I began researching the ‘Global History of the RAF Police’ in 1993, and after serving 25 years in the branch, I retired in early 2000 to live in Portugal. To date, I have published a number of books about the RAF Police in both hard and electronic formats. More information about my project to record the Global History of the RAF Police in its first 100 years can be found at http://rafpolicehistory.blogspot.pt . In a new series of articles for Provost Parade, I would like to take you on a walk down the ‘RAF Police’ memory lane and share key events which took place 90, 75, 50, 30 and 25 years ago, as well as remembering the 241 members of the RAF Police who have passed away in service since the end of WWII.

(APM) appointed, the proposals were rejected however authorised to form a liaison between by the Army Provost Marshal, who looked upon the RAF formations in the locality and the Army the idea as a threat to his own organisation. Provost Branch. The Air Ministry stressed that Senior Home Office officials also thought their District Discipline Officers should not be that the formation of a RAF Provost Branch in styled as Assistant Provost Marshals. addition to the Army’s Provost Branch would seriously complicate communications with With the Great War still ongoing, the RAF the civil police. District Discipline Officers were Service Police serving in France with the

First RAFPA crest

98 Years Ago (1918): The Royal Air Force was formed on 1st April 1918, by combining the (RNAS) and the (RFC). On the same day, RFC personnel at Halton Park and Blandford Camps, employed on internal camp policing duties became the first members of what initially became known as the RAF Service Police. The Army Provost Marshal remained responsible for external policing, training and police policy matters while Wg Cdr Brierley, an Admin Officer, was detailed to act as the first part-time RAF Provost Marshal. Although attempts were made in late 1918, to have RAF Assistant Provost Marshals RAFP BEF 1939

Independent Air Force were stationed on the frontline. The first policemen were recruited from the Aircrafthand and General Duties trade group and were initially trained by the Military Police. Some of the first RAF Service Policemen to be trained by the Military Police were James John Myler from Liverpool, William Kerby (who would later rise to Provost Marshal), Clarence Ascough and Charles Guy.

76 Years Ago (1939): In 1939, with the threat of war in Europe once more approaching, the establishment of the RAF Service Police rapidly increased and the RAF Police trade was officially approved. On the outbreak of war, a specially equipped RAF Police Service Unit, commanded by Sqn Ldr Richdale, joined the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) and deployed into France. RAF deputy assistant provost marshals (DAPM) were established at all group and command HQs and 13 RAF Police regions were formed within the UK; RAF Police employed on regions were responsible to the RAF Provost Marshal while RAF Police employed within RAF stations were RAF SP 1918 responsible to the station commander.

34 Provost Parade 50 Years Ago (1964): Personnel from P&SS Berlin became involved in the security operation during the exchange of alleged spies; Greville Wynne (MI5) and Gordon Lonsdale (KGB) which took place at the Berlin Wall. Following the Radcliffe review of RAF Security, Air Cdre Pike was appointed as the new RAF Director of Security, while the Provost Marshal retained responsibility for police matters. In Cyprus RAF Police NCOs joined a UN Peace-keeping force to keep Turkish (North) and Greek (South) Cypriots apart. In Aden, Egyptian sponsored violent terrorist activity increased dramatically and British Forces/RAF Police were placed on full alert. At the end of the year the Provost Marshal; Air Commodore Millar, released a report on the current standing of the RAF Provost & Security Association, which at that time had over 200 members, and urged personnel to give it full support in order to benefit its growth and to prevent it from failing.

30 Years Ago (1984): IRA activity in N Ireland, UK mainland and Germany/Holland still a serious threat. RAF Dogs Kennel Assistants Police detachments to Greenham Common started following the establishment of the anti-cruise missile Womans Peace Camp there. RAF Police from Cyprus assisted with a second sea evacuation of refugees from war torn Lebanon. Drug Abuse Prevention Officers were established on each of the P&SS Regions in an effort to educate RAF personnel about the dangers of drug and solvent abuse. Air Cdre David retires as the Provost Marshal and was succeeded by Air Cdre Hales. Sgt Flinn from Support Sqn took part in Exercise Airwave, a four-month exchange programme with the Royal Australian Air Force Police (RAAF Police) and his counterpart Sgt Dusting RAAF Police joined Support Sqn. WO Figgins and Sgt Rowe deployed to Thailand to train Thai Police Firearms & Explosive Dog Detection Teams. In Germany HQ P&SS(Germany) was presented with the Wilkinson Sword of Peace for their outstanding contribution to the ‘local community’, and WO Broddle retired from the service having completed 500 Royal Flights with The Queens Flight. Before he left the service he became only the third member of the RAF Police to be granted a private audience with HM Queen Elizabeth II. At RAF Newton, the RAF Police Association that we know and are a part of today was formed by serving and former serving members of the RAF Police and Provost Branch at an inaugural meeting of interested persons. Dog Demo Team

Greenham Common 1984

continued over page 20 Years Ago (1994): As part of the fallout, plans were announced East Germany, all American, French and British to disband the trade of Kennel-Assistant and forces were withdrawn from Berlin and P&SS RAF Police deployed to the Middle East and the RAF Police Dog Demonstration Team. The (Berlin Det) was disbanded. RAF Belize closed the Balkans but as part of their plan to further final RAF Police UK Dog Trials Competition and the RAF Police returned to the UK. Finally, reduce the strength of the UK Armed Forces was held at Newton before it closed with A/WO Summers returned from Zimbabwe after the Government announced their ‘Front Line dog training moving to the Defence Animal successfully training their Air Force & Military First’ initiative; the RAF were to reduce their Centre (Melton Mowbray) and the school to Police personnel. establishment by a further 7,500 to 67,500. Halton. Following the unification of West and

Berlin RAFP Auxs 1994 Berlin 1994

Final March to Parliament by Personnel Deployed on Op HERRICK 20

Flt Lt Darren Day, OC RAF Police, RAF Odiham, was proud to have been one of the three RAF Police representatives to march to Parliament on 26th January. He recalls the day’s events and shares morning and the trivial admin upon arrival; it Terrace Pavilion for refreshments and addressed wasn’t long before all 101 of us were formed thereafter by the Secretary of State for Defence, his memories… up on the parade square for drill in the lead up Sir Michael Fallon. Following this, we enjoyed to the march. informal tours of both houses, which included briefly attending both parliamentary chambers 101 personnel from all three Services, After several amusing rehearsals, the march during legislative debates. including Cpl Haworth, Cpl Wong and I, were commenced from Wellington Barracks along accompanied by the Band of the Grenadier Birdcage Walk and Great George Street, past My tour concluded with a visit to the gift-shop Guards whilst we marched from Wellington Parliament Square to Westminster Hall via the - I couldn’t resist buying a piece of tat! Barracks to the Houses of Parliament. We were Carriage Gates. The applause throughout was led by Commander 102 Logistics Brigade, unbroken and the atmosphere was electric. Overall, it was an especially proud day for all of Brigadier Darrell Amison and this denoted the those who took part and an experience that final march of Op HERRICK. We were greeted at the North Door of I’ll always remember. The time spent inside the Westminster Hall by the applause of dozens of Palace of Westminster was very informal, which This exciting opportunity is something I feel parliamentarians who personally thanked us put everybody at ease and I believe this was as proud to have been part of and despite the for our contributions to Op HERRICK. We were rewarding for the Parliamentarians as hosts, as pain of travelling into London on a Monday led through the Palace of Westminster to the it was for us as their guests.

36 Provost Parade WO Ken Prentice has recently Scotland and Northern Ireland become involved in the Royal Air Force Police Association Branch of the Royal Air Force and he explains how this interaction has evolved. Police Association In March last year, I was sitting in my office when OC No 4 RAFP Sqn, Sqn Ldr Craig Teasdale asked me what I knew about the Scotland and Northern Ireland (S & NI) Branch - Under New Leadership… of the RAF Police Association (RAFPA). Rather sheepishly I had to admit that I knew very little. On making some enquiries with a few well known characters namely Charles Crossan, Gus McGowan, Mick Mac McLaughlin and Bob Farmer, to name but a few, I discovered the S & NI Branch consisted of approximately 75 members. These members resided across a combined area of approximately 40,000 square miles with a number living in remote locations, making their participation in routine branch events neigh on impossible. Sadly, I also discovered the Branch had folded during the previous November for a number of differing reasons. Clearly this was a situation which required some attention and this started my involvement my RAFPA. In the months that followed I consulted some of the previous members to ascertain how I could assist in trying to reform the branch, whilst identifying how I could attempt to draw the RAFPA closer to current serving RAFP. Everyone I talked to was in total agreement that we should at least attempt a branch reformation but for a number of differing reasons, none of the previous branch members wished to lead. For the reformation process to be successful I needed a number of people to nominate themselves for election as Officers of Branch. Step forward Gp Capt (Ret’d) Jim Leggatt who kindly volunteered to be Chairperson, Mrs Elma Bailey, wife of PM(RAF) The association was originally set up in 1984 If you are a serving member within the S & who volunteered to be the branch Secretary, to “afford members the facilities of meeting NI branch area or know of any ex RAF Police, Mr Gus McGowan who volunteered to be together, for the purpose of advancing the I cannot encourage you strongly enough to branch treasurer and yours truly who agreed to objects of the Association, to foster good come and join the S & NI branch. be Vice Chairperson. fellowship, and to perpetuate and advance the spirit of comradeship formed during service If you are interested in joining, further details Its worthy of note that even although the with the Royal Air Force Police”. Under the can be found at www.rafpa.com . I very much branch had disbanded, there were still groups leadership of Gp Capt Jim Leggatt, we are look forward to welcoming new members of individuals who continued to meet and actively looking to promote the association and forging a lasting association with the S & who kept up the ethos of the Association; ethos throughout the whole of our branch NI branch. a particular example of this was the small area whilst actively fostering stronger relations group consisting of Mr Gus McGowan, Mr Jim between the branch and regular and auxiliary Gordon, Mr Bill Watson & Mr Peter Coop who members of the RAF Police. attended the Edinburgh Cenotaph laying a wreath on behalf of RAFPA. Following much discussion and debate, a proposition was sent to the previous branch membership during late November 14 to officially reform the branch and to elect the Officers of the Branch. 66% of the previous Wiltshire Branch Standard membership voted in favour of the reformation and Gp Capt Jim Leggatt, Mrs Elma Bailey, Mr Bearer (designate) Flt Lt Gus McGowan and I were all dully elected. I’m pleased to announce the S & NI Branch of Nick Dodgson at the recent RAFPA officially reformed on 31 Dec 14. Snowdrops Parade at the The reformation of the branch was actually the easy part, as now we have to look at its National Arboretum. It is longevity; importantly we need to attract the younger members of the trade and those believed was the first Provost who have left in recent years and who reside within the branch area, yet have no form of interaction. Officer to carry out this duty.

Provost Parade 37 A/Cpl Gavin Condor is a part- time reservist on 3 Tactical Police Squadron (3 TPS) at RAF Henlow. A reservist for 20 years, mainly in the Royal Logistic Corps, he joined the RAF Police Reserves in 2012 and was mobilised in March 2014 for a year to support the final OP HERRICK rotation. He is currently assisting SIIB (S), using civilian skills honed in his role as a detective sergeant in Bedfordshire Police…

A/Cpl Condor shares his of attention - apparently, they were famous pop group. I took experiences from the famous a couple of photographs and ‘Millies’ Awards ceremony… e-mailed my teenage daughter. ‘I’ve just bumped into One On 10th December 2014, I had Direction in Downing Street’. The the privilege of attending the reply was ‘No, that’s McBusted’. Ah seventh annual Sun Military well, at my age I can’t be expected Awards to represent my Squadron, to know that sort of thing! 3 TPS, RAuxAF. Better known as ‘The Millies’, this annual event After a return journey to the hotel celebrates the outstanding and a briefing for the night’s achievements of the armed ceremony, it was time for the forces. Completing the RAF Police journey to the National Maritime contingent for the evening was Museum at Greenwich, the venue my colleague, FS Phil Lloyd from 6 for the awards. Squadron, RAF Cosford. It was quite a sight as we made After an early start on the train, our way along the red carpet to we used our central London the entrance flanked by flaming hotel, with its magnificent views, torches, spotlights and the to change into uniform prior media, who were desperately to being taken by coach to 10 trying to gain the attention of the Downing Street under police celebrities for a quick interview. Smith and many others. There be those who having sustained escort. It was exciting, entering were also a number of well known devastating injuries, yet speak so Downing Street via the large Inside, we awaited the arrival of military faces such as Simon much of those that have helped wrought iron gates and making His Royal Highness, The Prince Weston, John Nichols and Sgt them on the path to recovery our way to the famous black of Wales with The Duchess of Johnson Beharry VC. and rehabilitation, rather than door with its large number 10. Cornwall and the Prime Minister, of themselves. Without ceremony, it opened and David Cameron. I shook hands For those that watching the in we went, climbing the famous and had a conversation with The awards at home, it’s the usual slick, This year there were four specially staircase lined with the portraits Prince of Wales. edited television production we created awards to mark the end of of previous Prime Ministers and are all accustomed to. However, combat operations in Afghanistan. into the reception rooms to enjoy As proceedings commenced, it was good fun watching Philip One of these was for mentoring mulled wine and canapés. we discovered each table had a Schofield fluff his lines and Afghan Forces to recognise the celebrity seated with the Service Amanda Holden dashing off stage work of troops who have trained Following a group photograph personnel and other guests. Our to drag people back on because the Afghan National Security with the Secretary of State for table was graced by actor David they needed a retake. Force. FS Lloyd was called up to Defence, Rt Hon Michael Fallon Suchet and his wife, who were the stage, along with the Army MP, we looked around and thoroughly pleasant companions As the awards were announced and Royal Marines recipients, to chatted with our colleagues from for the evening. He didn’t even and the recipients went up to receive the Mentoring Award the Army and Navy. As we left, seem to mind the continuous accept them, it gave us a chance from Simon Cowell and Alesha we had an opportunity to have a questions about his most famous to reflect on what these people Dixon. This was awarded, not for photograph in front of the famous role of Poirot! had achieved, whether regular or any one instance of mentoring, front door. reserve, serving or ex-service and but for all those involved and the Other famous faces I recognised indeed in some cases, families or significant contribution to success It was at this point that a number were Rod Stewart, Liam Neesan, organisations that support the in Afghanistan. of very fashionable young men Mary Berry, David Milliband, armed forces. However, the most arrived who were attracting a lot Simon Cowell, Dame Maggie inspirational for me continue to With the conclusion of the awards, Katherine Jenkins performed and dinner was served, with the remainder of the evening spent interacting with the celebrities and other guests. Midnight came and carriages were announced. Upon collecting our hats, I was surprised that someone hadn’t taken the opportunity to acquire a ‘Snowdrops’ cap as a souvenir! For me, having recently returned from Afghanistan, an event like this makes you realise that, despite what we sometimes think, the armed forces enjoy an awful lot of support and goodwill from a wide cross section of our country. Our efforts, whatever the role, are appreciated by many, which should inspire us to carry on achieving the things that were FS Lloyd and Cpl Condor OS No 10 Cpl Condor at Millies deservedly awarded at the Millies.

38 Provost Parade Warrant Officer Phill Rodd of 3 Tactical Police Squadron has had a distinguished and varied career covering three decades in RAF Police. He has made an unwavering and astounding contribution in this time which has seen him nominated for a Sun ‘Millie’ Award and most recently, he was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours List… It was whilst on holiday in France over the Christmas period that WO Rodd received the Boxing Day call from the Provost Marshal. In an area dogged by poor phone signal, he was unable to take the immediate call and had to find good coverage before ringing back. He comments, “I didn’t think the PM and I were on such good terms for him to call and wish me Happy Christmas, or enquire how my holiday was; so I turned to my wife Dawn and said - it’s either It’s an Honour for good or bad! “We chatted for a while and eventually the PM informed that that I’d been recognised in the RAF Policeman, New Year’s Honours List and had been awarded an MBE.” WO Rodd’s extensive operational experience has seen him deploy WO Phill Rodd MBE to various overseas locations including Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. He deployed several "The Prince put me at ease times on Op TELIC, culminating in him being FS RAFP at the by asking about my career, Contingency Operating Base, particularly my dog handling. Basra Air Station. He was also the first RAF Arms and Explosive Dog He did mention he has a Handler deployed on Op HERRICK; couple of spaniels who additional tours followed. require training!" WO Rodd comments, “I have been lucky to experience 29 incredibly delight of WO Rodd’s wife and varied years in the RAF Police sister, was on a cold yet sunny which has seen me travel the day in February at Buckingham world. Throughout both good Palace. It was a day that will times and bad, my family, close always remain in the Rodd family’s friends and particularly my wife memory. He recalls, “Whilst my Dawn and her parents have been wife and family were escorted my strength and support.” into the Grand Ballroom, I, plus my fellow recipients, which included The investiture, performed by Lord Cadbury and the artists The Duke of Cambridge to the responsible for the amazing poppy display at the Tower of London, were briefed on what, and what not to do. “I can honestly say, I was the most nervous I have ever been and there have been many nerve- racking situations throughout my career. However, the Prince put me at ease by asking about my career, particularly my dog handling. He did mention he has a couple of spaniels who require training!" “So, as I rapidly approach retirement, I will be sending him my CV. WO Philip Andrew Rodd MBE QPD by Royal Appointment has quite a ring to it!” Provost Parade 39 40 Provost Parade