Autumn 2016

RAF Police Support RIAT & F35 Debut CONTENTSTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE CONTENTS & EDITORIAL TEAM Editorial Contents

BOTH COVER IMAGES: The RAFP Team secure Welcome to another edition of the new F-35 Lightning II aircraft making its the Provost Parade and one that UK airshow debut. FRONT COVER: Sgt Greg Hymers and has taken on a very different Cpl Faye Hudson stand guard. format to its predecessors.

I don’t think any of us need the highly specialised training of Foreword 4 SIB to see that this magazine is designed by a different team 34 46 RAF Police Support RIAT 6 and is now minus the adverts that have featured in the past. However, in essence, the content remains unchanged and RAF Police Keeping Armed Forces Day Secure 8 continues to highlight the variety of work and achievements. Super Trooper 12 We’ve enjoyed a very good relationship with Forces Publishing Force Development Heads To London 19 over a number of years but the advertising space that fully It’s All Change At The Top ... 24 funded the professional design and printing of the magazine was proving increasingly difficult to sell. Historic RAF Police Vehicles On The Move 28 Despite everyone’s best efforts over the past couple of 7 Sqn Skill At Arms Meeting 2016 30 editions, we were left with a shortfall in revenue and one The First Ever RAFP Phoenix Raven 32 we could not cover - so we had no option but to explore The RAF Police Shooting Sharp 36 other opportunities. Fast forward and you hold in your hands the product of our Sport 40 new relationship with the Air Media Centre as the Provost Parade moves ‘in-house’ for its design and printing. Visually, the look has changed to align with current MOD branding guidelines, but in terms of content, it’s very much business as usual. It’s been a real pleasure working with the new team and Editorial Team this publication showcases the design talent we’ve been lucky Chairman of the Journal Curator of the RAF Police Museum enough to tap into. Gp Capt S R Horne PM(RAF) Sgt S Wilkinson As always, I want to take this opportunity to heartily thank and Chief of RAF Police / Cpl I Gallagher everyone who has taken the time to submit an article and T: 95991 6066 T: 93835 4803/4675 E: RAFP-HQ PM T: 02392 284 803/4675 pictures. Quite literally, without your efforts this publication E: DSPG-MTS-CDT-RAF2 simply wouldn’t happen. Please keep this up, sending me potential stories at Editor any time that Sal Davidson Future Submissions Address: T: 95991 7762 Editor Provost Parade I’ll file for the E: RAFP-HQ PRO RAFP PR Officer next edition. Force Protection HQ Remember that RAF Honington 30 Assistant Editor Bury St Edmunds good quality WO F Green Suffolk IP31 1EE photos are T: 95991 6861 T: 01359 237 762 essential, fully E: RAFP-HQ PMWO E: [email protected] captioned and provided Provost Parade Shop Manager Produced by Air Media Centre, separately FS D Donnelly HQ Air Command 2492_16SJD as jpegs (min T: 93835 4869 © UK MOD Crown Copyright, 2016. T: 02392 284 869 300 dpi). E: DSPG-ATS-SyFlt-Instr1 Please send any feedback that you may Sales Manager have, good or bad - but in Sgt C Teague the meantime ... Enjoy ! n T: 93835 4258 T: 02392 284 258 8 35 E: DSPG-ATS-SyFlt-Instr7 2 3 FOREWORDTHE MAGAZINE OF THE ROYAL AIR FORCE POLICE PROVOST PARADE Foreword

RAF Provost Marshal and Chief of Royal Air Force Police, Deputy Commander FP Force (RAF Police) Group Captain Steve Horne MA BSc (Hons) RAF

I am delighted to be writing this opportunities unavailable to other ground foreword to the Provost Parade because trades or commissioned branches in amongst other things it reminds me the RAF. that it “feels good to be back”, both Themes are important: our involvement in the mainstream of the RAF and across the Defence enterprise from more importantly, in the core of the an Armed Forces Day in Cleethorpes RAF Police. to supporting RIAT, the world’s largest Out of branch tours are important to military air-show, to providing security broaden and add to the portfolio, or at and policing at RAF Cosford; the mix of least that is the career manager’s sales capabilities delivered from event security, pitch, but I think it is also more subliminal VIP protection, aviation security of 5th-gen - they make you realise what it was that aircraft such as LII and P8, general policing attracted you to the organisation in the and MWD; our position as the RAF’s first place, the connection you have interlocutor with civil police; our use of the with the colleagues you left behind and ‘Whole Force’ with MPGS and our Reserve RAF Policewoman’s Success At provide some space to be able to return Squadrons working alongside Regulars; challenging regular duties, they have with renewed enthusiasm and energy. and our ability to take time out for sport, had an active involvement in charitable ‘Women In Defence UK’ Awards Ceremony Certainly after 4-years in ‘officer-any’ charity and adventurous training. activities, fundraising over £57,710 for jobs in Brussels and London where a suit All of this is detailed in this publication worthy causes.” A RAF policewoman was one of the Northolt to record the final movement A One Voice Education Initiative is was normal dress, it is good to be back in and I think the opportunity to get out AMP requested that I make all winners at the Women in Defence of the five part symphony composed by underway in the North West with 15 RAF uniform and on an RAF Station, but and do interesting and challenging ‘stuff’ members of the RAF Police aware of his UK inaugural awards at a ceremony Flt Lt Harriet Tadikonda. ‘A Path to Peace’, schools to date signing up to participate returning to take command of the RAF makes the RAFP a valued, satisfying and admiration and I would add my own. held at the Honourable Artillery the One Voice Initiative’s single was in a massed concert and recording of their Police as Provost Marshal is something continually evolving career. It is gratifying to come back to such a Company’s Headquarters. formally released at an event held at The own versions of the One Voice Motto. rather special. Just how valued the RAF Police are highly regarded part of the RAF and I look Flt Lt Harriet Tadikonda was one of 200 International Anoopam Mission Temple Work is also underway to include the Command is always a privilege but the is the other reason I am delighted to be forward to meeting many of you in the nominees across five different categories in December 2015, with the hard copies project in the Department for Education’s sense of history tied in with this post adds writing this foreword; I have news. Air near future as I escape HQ and get out to that were whittled down via a stringent of the single selling out within minutes of Prevent strategy as Thelma Stober, One a certain poignancy that other Gp Capt Marshal Reynolds, AMP and Chair of the RAF Police units. judging process carried out by a variety of the launch and all proceeds donated to Voice ambassador continues to raise the in-command appointments lack. judging panel has kindly informed me leaders from business, professional bodies SSAFA – The Armed Forces charity. profile of the project to combat radical It is about being custodian of an that the RAF Police have won the Firmin Fiat Justitia. n and government. On receiving her award, Flt Lt behaviour. organisation that is as old as the RAF itself Sword of Peace (RAF) for 2015. Women in Defence UK exists to Tadikonda said: “I have been extremely A Prisons Initiative is due to commence whilst developing our capability and This highly coveted prize was promote the value of women across fortunate to work alongside some in November in a closed prison in relevance to the RAF of the future. unanimously awarded to us in recognition defence and three finalists from each extraordinary and visionary people on the Manchester, inspiring offenders to And doing that in concert with some of the extraordinary catalogue of category attended the ceremony, but One Voice project. consider a more purposeful life. of the individuals who have been part of humanitarian, engagement and charitable it was Flt Lt Tadikonda’s efforts that saw “This award is devoted them and the And finally, ‘Tying Hands Around my 25-year history in the RAF, providing a activities that the organisation undertook. her win the ‘Most Collaborative’ award utterly inspiring servicewomen who were the World’ iaunched in October with a sense of returning to a family with shared AMP notes that: “Throughout 2015 as founder and director of the ‘One also nominated or won awards. There are cinema screening in Leicestershire to raise memories where everyone is just a little the RAF Police made a significant Voice Initiative’. now an increasing number of women in funds for a school in Nepal who will be bit older, wiser and greyer-haired. Yes, it contribution to humanitarian activities This brought every faith society across high profile roles within the MOD - it is producing rathki bracelets for the project feels good to be back. through participation in Op VOGUL, Op Defence together to form a multi-faith an exciting time to be a woman working in association with the Armed Forces And so to this issue of the Provost PENNYWEIGHT, Op LEYLAND and Op and humanist choir in the name of co- in defence.” Hindu society. n Parade, something I enjoyed when TAILPIN whilst also maintaining a busy operation and tolerance. In August 2015, The story doesn’t end with this award IMAGES: The recording of the single at RAF out of the RAF Police as a means of engagement schedule. tri-service singers, four civilian choirs and there are some exciting times ahead. Northolt, SAC Matt Baker; The launch of the single, keeping abreast of developments in They played a critical role in ensuring and the musicians of the Band of the Following a preview event in the House of Paresh Solanki; Harriett proudly displaying the CD our capabilities but more importantly the running of events such as 75th RAF Regiment all came together at RAF Lords, the project continues to grow. Single, Paresh Solanki. of the people and what they get up Anniversary of the Battle of Britain to. The diversity of articles in this copy Commemoration Service and the Royal I have been extremely fortunate to work alongside some demonstrates that the RAF Police International Air Tattoo 2015. It is a continues to be a specialisation that testament to the personnel within the extraordinary and visionary people on the One Voice project. offers an appealing full career with many Royal Air Force Police that in spite of

4 AUTUMN 2016 5 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE RAF POLICE SUPPORT RIAT AND THE F35 LIGHTNING II UK AIRSHOW DEBUT

RAF Police Support RIAT and the F35 Lightning II UK Airshow Debut

The new F-35 Lightning II aircraft made it’s UK airshow debut at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in July and members of 3 (T)PS deployed to RAF Fairford to assist with security and policing of this event - the world’s biggest air show.

RIAT draws military aircraft from all Fleet. 3(T)PS deployed a team of 19 RAFP the ATC. 750 air cadets paraded and the over the world and this year some Reservists drawn from 3(T)PS, 607 Sqn Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir 24 countries were represented, 230 (County of Durham) and 603 Sqn (City Andrew Pulford, Commandant Air Cadets, display aircraft participated and over of Edinburgh), along with two regular Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty and required, were kept very busy. As you can 153 000 members of the general public personnel to carry out the multitude of Honorary Air Cadet, Group Captain Carol imagine, the logistics of making an event attended. security roles. Vorderman took the salute. of this magnitude successful are mind The resulting security for this event was Our personnel were tasked with This parade was an integral part of the blowing and the amount of traffic coming very high and by working closely with our securing the F-35 and the P8 Poseidon Royal visit with the Duchess of Cambridge on to the site was massive. counterparts within the USAF, Lockheed and for the general policing of the event, meeting air cadets as part of her role as Due to the enhanced security, each Martin and the MOD Police, we were able working closely with both Gloucestershire their Honorary Commandant. one of these vehicles needed to be to provide the much needed security Police and MOD Police to ensure that the The Royal theme was continued with searched. This task was carried out by RAF presence on the airfield in support of public were safe during the show. further visits by HRH Prince Michael of Police Search Dog Handlers who worked these aircraft. The Friday of the Tattoo was a busy Kent and HRH Prince Faisal of Jordan. tirelessly along with trainees from RAF Alongside the F35 was another high day for the showground with the first This, plus the 55 Chiefs of Air Staff Cosford’s No.1 School of Technical Training profile aircraft - the P8 Poseidon, which flying display by the F35 and the visit by from around the world attending from morning to night. Even losing an security was maintained. RIAT was a huge along with the F35 is set to join the RAF the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge CAS’s Conference held over the same entire dog search team to quarantine success with all personnel who attended who attended with Prince George on his period, meant the VIP facilitation team (replaced within 24 hours) barely thoroughly enjoying the experience as BOTTOM IMAGES, LEFT TO RIGHT: By Sgt Glen Hymers first ever public engagement. That same of FS Pullen and Cpls Condor and Maile, disrupted the excellent service provided it allowed them to put into practice the Cpl Greg Hymers and Cpl Faye Hudson; day saw the celebration of 75 years of supported by uniformed elements when by the dogs and their handlers, ensuring skills they have been taught. n Cpl Chris Lake & Cpl Haz Purcell.

6 AUTUMN 2016 7 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE RAF POLICE KEEPING ARMED FORCES DAY SECURE far away as Portsmouth. This elite band of The people of ‘volunteers’, armed with Military Working RAF Police Keeping Dogs, stab vests, batons and handcuffs Cleethorpes were provided almost a full spectrum of Service Police capability alongside Humberside absolutely amazing Police during the week long build-up of Armed Forces the Military Park and accommodation throughout our areas plus the event itself, attended by over 115 000 spectators. deployment ... The event was attended by HRH The Day Secure Duke of Kent, then Prime Minister David Security was paramount and the RAF Cameron and the Defence Secretary, Police were part of the multi-agency Michael Fallon. The 2016 Armed Forces Day National Event was held in team that kept the participants and Being his first official function following spectators safe for this national event. the vote to leave the European Union, Cleethorpes on Saturday 25 June, attracting thousands of people Sqn Ldr Den Mercer, 2IC No.1 Police there was, as predicted, considerable Wing tells us how ... media interest in the attendance of the to this seaside location, all wishing to show their support to the In response to a request from Prime Minister, especially during the Commandant RAF College Cranwell, Military Parade. nation’s Armed Forces ... Number One Police Wing agreed to Through a combination of glorious coordinate and manage the Service Police, weather and the enormous support to Security and Intelligence requirements the UK Armed Forces from the travelling of the Armed Forces Day National Event public and the local population, security 2016, for which the Royal Air Force had and policing remained a challenge the lead. throughout the day and into the evening Early liaison and preparation for this with Service Police responding to every daunting task was instigated by the incident imaginable, often alongside charismatic and very capable Warrant Humberside Police. Officer Brian ‘Nightshift’ Parton, who RAF Police Arms and Explosive Search ably maintained his role as Officer Dogs were utilised for searches of the Commanding RAF Police at RAF Royal and Ministerial venues and the Scampton, throughout what was arguably Service accommodation site. the largest and most successful Armed Liaison was maintained in Silver Forces Day National Event so far. Command and an opportunity exploited Armed Forces by everyone I encountered. Planning meetings with North by Sergeant Penny ‘Drug Buster’ Jordan Overall, Armed Forces Day 2016 was an East Lincolnshire Council began in and Corporal Jess ‘Thief Taker’ Andrews of outstanding success and it is gratifying early 2016 and eventually included an the Special Investigations Branch (North) to know that our relatively small band of Emergency Services contingency exercise to work alongside their CID counterparts Service Police helped make it the success with Humberside Police, Fire Service, during the event. that it was and for that I am grateful. Ambulance Service, Coastguard and It is testament to the training and The people of Cleethorpes were Port Authority. ability of the two NCOs that they were absolutely amazing throughout our Fortunately for Warrant Officer Parton soon employed interviewing witnesses, deployment and the effort by the he was provided with assistance closer complainants and suspects alongside Emergency Services to make the day to the event by Squadron Leader Den Grimsby CID, further strengthening the the success it was, truly heartening. ‘Silver Command’ Mercer (yours truly), relationship between the Service Police Thank you. n Flight Lieutenant Gav ‘facebook’ Brockie, and their civilian counterparts. Flight Sergeant Pete ‘I hate Grimsby Town It was refreshing to note that despite FC’ Norman, Sergeants Gordon ‘Flash’ the constant requests for assistance Humphreys, Andy ‘Baby Face’ Ackers of the Service Police during the event, and twenty one extremely proficient from lost children, medical emergencies, Tri-Service Police men and women from crowd control and assisting the civilian across the UK. stewards to deal with traffic control due This included RAFP personnel from to several road closures that there was all three Police Wings, members of the not one single arrest of a Service person Provost Marshal’s Dog Unit at RAF Henlow, throughout the eight day deployment. Royal Military Police from Colchester The highlight for me was the Garrison and Royal Navy Police from as overwhelming support shown to the

8 AUTUMN 2016 9 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE PROVOST PARADESPORT No.605 Sqn Goes Operational Al Udied Battle of Britain Commemoration The ‘Whole Force’ approach supported are viewed as such among their logistic 83 Expeditionary Air Group and 901 the policing and security aspects of this counterparts. Expeditionary Air Wing, located at Al year’s Cosford Air Show which was held Consisting of a SNCO and three JNCOs, Udied Air Base (AUAB), Qatar, took in June - Corporal Mick Hillman tells who are ordinarily employed in the civilian part in the annual commemoration us how, as a reservist, he was involved police, Sky TV and in an adventurous of the Battle of Britain on 15 Sep 16. Volunteers donate for the first time as No.605 Squadron training retail centre - their task started The occasion was marked with a thousands of hours undertook the inaugural operational with a full air show brief, including roles short service that members of the The RAF Association has 4,898 tasking of their modern era ... and responsibilities. coalition forces were invited to attend. volunteers, who are integral to the The annual Cosford Air Show attracted Fully enthused with the opportunity Canadian, Polish, New Zealand, successful implementation of the approximately 55,000 spectators who awaiting them, the group integrated SIB(N) Fight Against Smuggling Australian, French, American, Dutch, Association’s support and welfare braved the murky conditions to enjoy seamlessly with their regular counterparts. German and Italian military personnel schemes, providing support for the the numerous aerobatic displays, which The responsibilities of the RAF Police At 0400 on 14th September 2016, as the trained Border Force staff. It was then the joined their British colleagues to wider RAF family. included the Red Arrows, along with a on the day were wide ranging and as rest of RAFC Cranwell was still asleep, turn of the search and scan team which honour those that lost their lives some Katharine Montgomery, Volunteer host of other attractions. such, the four reserves found themselves a team from Special Investigation included Working Dogs trained to find 76 years ago. Manager, said: “Our volunteers work High profile events such as this require supporting different roles throughout. Branch (North) (SIB(N)) gathered in the tobacco, drugs, money and within reason The service, held at the British tirelessly week in, week out in all a lot of planning and support and a vital The SNCO was employed on mobile early morning darkness for a briefing anything else that was considered to be compound within AUAB in the usual sorts of ways. We simply couldn’t part of this are those organisations that security duties predominantly on the before heading up to Immingham of a nefarious nature. sunshine that bathes the region, operate without them.” As a token provide the policing and security support. airfield, ensuring the designated crash Port in Humberside as a part of a joint Throughout this phase of the operation was attended by approximately 130 of appreciation for all their hard As always, this consisted of elements of zone remained clear and any ad-hoc operation with UK Border Force. the RAFP were fully imbedded with the personnel. work, Air Marshal Sir Dusty Miller No.6 RAF Police Sqn, supported by their incidents were dealt with expeditiously. The Task: To target military vehicles UK Border Force team, delivering a clear The commemorative celebrations sent all Association volunteers a pin civilian counterparts in the West Mercia Two of the JNCOs were employed on and personnel which could be potentially and highly visible deter and detect effect were topped off with a social function badge and thank you card during Police. General Police Duties (GPD) with both smuggling contraband from the against any Service personnel conducting held at Churchills, the welfare facility Volunteers’ Week. This year’s event saw the first use of regular and civilian police officers. continent as it returned from exercise. or considering smuggling activities. at AUAB which has become the heart Jo volunteers as a RAFALO (RAF trained RAF Police Reserves from No.605 They were responsible for conducting The illegal smuggling of tobacco from Alongside the efforts at the dock the of most social events for visiting Association Liaison Officer), a serving Sqn. Based at RAF Cosford, the Sqn high visibility patrols, engaging with the overseas operations is nothing new and Police Flight at RAF Brize Norton, working coalition partners. member of the RAF who provides provided four policemen to enhance public and responding to incidents to the RAF Police has a fine track record in tandem with their UK Border Force A BBQ, Spitfire racing, Aircraft a priceless link between serving No.6 RAF Police Sqn capabilities on the ensure everyone’s safety for the duration of tracking and catching individuals colleagues and utilising specialist RAFP modelling, music and other games personnel and the Association’s wider day and in doing so conducted the first of the event. who try to smuggle tobacco and other MWD assets, conducted intelligence led helped people relax and brought Branch network. Jo became a RAFALO operational tasking of their modern era. The final member of the Sqn was contraband back into the UK. joint interagency counter smuggling them together to remember our long when she was looking for more Despite being a Logistic Support Sqn, employed within Bronze Command and This new multi-agency approach is search ops of all personnel and lost comrades. challenging secondary duties, quickly the small cadre of RAF Police Reserves assisted in the communication, direction just the next step in the battle to DETER equipment returning from theatre and A moments silence was observed moving to take charge of the station are a vital component of 605 Sqn and and coordination between all call signs/ and DETECT illegal activity. Woking on large scale exercises. in the evening and a toast to those RAFALO committee. patrols, ensuring that all Police agencies reports from the RAFP FIB; the team This, alongside the activities that made the ultimate sacrifice As a RAFALO, Jo engages with responded to incidents in a timely and UK Border Force had conducted undertaken at Immingham port, is a and Churchill’s famous speech was several local branches, assisting with manner. several recces and a detailed plan was clear indicator of the RAFP’s ability to played as loud as we dare to mark fundraising, support and branch In summary, the Cosford Air Show implemented, ready for the latest arrivals. assure AIR that RAF assets and equipment the occasion and to educate many of meetings, whilst organising station was an enormous success for the paying Once at Immingham Docks, the SIB(N) are not being used as a medium by those attending. n visits for branch members, and is also public and the same could be said for the team went into a briefing with Border Service personnel to import illegal / a keen advocate of the Befriending performance of all the Police and security Force team leaders who had gathered contraband items. Campaign. She would recommend services at the event. some of their top individuals and Indeed, this co-ordinated multi-agency being a volunteer for the Association It showed the Whole Force approach equipment in the search for contraband. approach led by SIB(N) brought together to anyone as, “the RAF Association is a in a good light, a sentiment echoed by After a detailed brief on the morning’s the RAFP FIB, 7 Sqn and UK Border Force family and there are always things that Officer Commanding No.6 RAF Police activities and targets for the day, the team and highlighted the RAFP’s ability to cross people can get involved with.” Sqn, Sqn Ldr Avril Porter who praised the headed dockside to set up the scanners network and target individuals who try While we hope they feel Reserves on duty. that would see in detail what lorries and and use military equipment to smuggle appreciated all year round, Volunteers’ As for the four individuals themselves, cars could be hiding in their cargo as contraband into the UK. Week provided the RAF Association they all feel immensely proud of what had they passed. The operation proved highly successful with the perfect opportunity to say a been achieved and how they contributed After the ferry from continual Europe in that it enabled a new capability, the huge thank you to them all. and now look forward to working docked, hundreds of vehicles passed RAFP MWD tobacco trained assets to be To find out how to volunteer with alongside their regular counterparts again through the Customs Check Points delivered and an overarching counter the RAF Association or for roles in your in the near future. n carrying everything from flowers, food, smuggling message as well as acting as area, please go to www.rafa.org.uk/ live horses and even a tanker full of ink. As the perfect vehicle to build and develop volunteer n vehicles passed through their credentials interagency relationships and support for were reviewed in detail by the highly future joint operations. n

10 AUTUMN 2016 11 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE SUPER TROOPER

Super Trooper

IMAGES (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): Mike is given a cycling send-off from RAF Akrotiri than planning our Gallipoli ride, but I kept averaging around 130 miles per day. on 2 May 2016; Mike’s bike is hastily packed for thinking about it. When I found myself However by Christmas 2015, when I 2083 Miles, 14 Days, the flight to Crete by Padre Matt Stevens and posted with my family to Cyprus in June went public with the plan, I had settled team; Spectacular Albania; A very welcome sight! 2014 and regularly travelling to and from on a target of 15 days - meaning a huge (Dover); With PM (RAF) at Northolt; At the Luxembourg border; The one and only Brize to Akrotiri on the RAF’s twice- average daily mileage of 180 miles per day. 10 Countries, 1 Puncture ... puncture - in Crete. weekly ‘trooper’ flight - the idea for Super In April and amidst the growing migrant Trooper began. crisis in central Europe, I was forced to Why? Like all great ideas, it started over With the desire to make it a fundraising re-think my transit through that troubled Over 14 days in May 2016, Flt Lt Mike Rankine cycled a social beer on a Friday night, gassing challenge from the outset, I wanted this region on the grounds of my own safety about cycling (as usual) with Flt Lt Mo to be a big deal. I would carry everything and security. solo and unsupported for over 2000 miles from RAF Pearce in the summer of 2013. I needed - clothes, spares, food - and rest The revised route would take me I rode Land’s End to John O’Groats solo where I could in hotels and guesthouses westwards through Turkey to Greece, by Akrotiri, Cyprus, to RAF Brize Norton. Now the dust in 2003 and ever since I’d been looking for along the way. ferry to Italy for the run over the Alps and a bigger, longer cycling challenge. to Calais and beyond. A second major has settled after this epic ride and the Rankines Mo is a lifelong and extremely No plan Survives First Contact blow struck on the Friday before I was accomplished cyclist and we rode Over Easter 2015, I started to plot a route due to depart: last-minute diplomatic have moved back to the UK for a posting to RAF regularly together and so the idea of a through Europe. It was a fairly simple issues had ruled-out a departure through cross-Europe ride was born. The initial route: from Akrotiri up into Northern Northern Cyprus to mainland Turkey. Brize Norton, we catch up with Mike to find out plan was a ride from Henlow to Gallipoli, Cyprus, take a ferry to mainland Turkey The last thing I wanted was to delay my Turkey, in early 2015 to mark the centenary from where, once at Istanbul, you can plot departure or planned arrival at Brize on the, whats, whys and hows of Super Trooper ... of the ill-fated allied attack during the First a straight line to Calais, crossing Bulgaria, 15 May, so came up with the plan to ride World War. Romania, Hungary, Austria, Germany a rough loop of the Republic of Cyprus, Our respective schedules meant that and France. At around 2700 miles, I initially before flying to Crete for another island unfortunately we never got any further wanted to complete the trip in 21 days, loop, and then take a ferry to Athens

13 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE SUPER TROOPER

to pick up the route through mainland have been a memorable Ferry Bad Times, and company of some seasoned RAFP cyclists Greece and resume the previously- nothing without trip for so many Unexpected Albania on the last leg from RAF High Wycombe planned route via ferry to Italy. This new the wonder reasons - good Having my plans thoroughly wrecked - plus the support of PM (RAF) whilst plan meant that I would see around of Facebook, and bad: by a Greek Sailors’ strike, but as a result passing RAF Northolt. 400 miles cut from my intended 2700 allowing pre- cycling the length of Albania - possibly Without this support in the final stages, mile ride. event publicity The Grand the most surprising and diverse country I I am not sure I’d have had the mental Choosing the Charity which steadily Départ have ever visited. resolve to carry on. The cherry on the From the outset I wanted to make this built support and Being sent off The Alps cake was the RAFP escort from the gate at challenge all about fundraising for a attention from in style at RAF The Alps were wet - very wet indeed - Brize to the RAFP Flight’s newly opened Service charity and after seeing first-hand friends and donors Akrotiri by a and I failed in my quest to ride over the ‘McCarthy’s Bar’ for the best-tasting beer how Service personnel and their families to the cause. Training peloton made up highest point owing to snow (in May!). ever with friends, colleagues and family. can find themselves facing incredibly rides, preview videos of cycling Service This was possibly the biggest mental difficult times, and needing somewhere of the planned route personnel and their blow of the whole trip, as it could have The Aftermath to turn for help - I chose SSAFA. and a promo shot with families of all ages, been avoided if I’d kept myself updated To cut a long story very short, this trip a friend’s drone were all following a Champagne with the weather and status of the tested everything: my mental resolve, Training posted online. BBQ breakfast. Later that Alpine roads. my physical stamina, my on-the-hoof My plan was simple: with up to 200 miles The thing that really clinched day I was honoured to be planning skills. There were times when a day to cover during the ride, I reckoned wider support was BFBS radio dragged up to Cyprus’ highest Exhaustion I felt a million miles from anywhere and that if I could train in blocks of 50 miles, and I became a regular guest on the point by following the wheel of I experienced falling asleep ‘at the bars’ honestly wondered what I was doing. I would be able to do four of these Charlene Guy’s Cyprus breakfast show. unflappable cycling machine Sgt for the first time in my life after over 200 When I got back, I feared that my ‘blocks’ per day, with an hour or so for Word was spreading through the BFC Richie Rodgers - the first pivotal moment miles and 18 hours in the saddle in the achilles tendons, hands and feet would rest and a good meal in between. Totally community, and further afield - with the of the trip. deepest, darkest depths of the Vosges never be right again. unscientific, but amazingly it did work! Brize Norton BFBS station getting on forest, SE France. A definite However, looking at the final I set about trying to squeeze in 50 miles board to follow the challenge and whip The Assault on Crete low point. fundraising total of over £5000, all of as often as I could, resulting in 0400 starts up support for my (hopeful) arrival there Crete was brought in at the which has gone to SSAFA in Cyprus, I can most weekdays with more leisurely long on Sun 15th May. My daily on-air phone last minute to ‘replace’ Turkey The Home Straight honestly say that it was all worth it! rides with cycling buddies at weekends. calls to Charlene’s BFBS Cyprus breakfast - I discovered just how Not only was I escorted I have promised my wife Amy, who What I couldn’t train for, and what made show were pivotal to keeping my morale mountainous this island is in through wild was my unwavering emotional and the actual ride such a challenge, was the up during some difficult times on the very hardest way, having headwinds on the organisational support from afar whilst I fatigue of being in the saddle for up to 18 the road. done zero map-based final two days of the was away for those 2 weeks, that I won’t hours each day for two-weeks. research before trip by the lycra-clad tackle another challenge until 2018. This would come to haunt me in due The Ride setting off. Cue legend Mo Pearce, But I have a plan hatching for an even course, with pain and discomfort steadily Now, I have already bored many a sunburn and very who met me in bigger trip, and I want it be a group effort creeping in as the ride went on. friend and colleague with tales from heavy legs. the Ardennes this time ... Watch this space ... n my journey, so I will spare you a blow- on the French/ Building the Support by-blow account (buy me a beer and I Belgian border, but Love it or hate it, Super Trooper would will tell all ... ). But, needless to say, it was I had the incredible

14 AUTUMN 2016 15 THE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE THE FALKLAND ISLANDSSPORT

recent iteration saw GPD stretched by younger competitors with the SIB / PS the amount of exercise play they became team defeating all other sections to be involved in, dealing with missing and crowned the overall winners. suspicious persons within the wire at MPC In the (not so) warm month of June, and explosions near the main entry point LReg Venetti organised a treat for her ‘land - to example just a few! lovin’ Service Police colleagues. Reporting During the exercise an unknown to Port Stanley shortly after breakfast aircraft landed at MPC which saw JSPSU the team of selected JSPSU personnel deploy with the Roulement Infantry boarded HMS Clyde. Company to deal with any eventualities. After a comprehensive safety brief and A group of rowdy protesters (Save orientation we set off into the Atlantic the Penguins) disembarked the aircraft, Ocean! The ships company provided but were kept in check by the GPD and us with a tour of the living conditions, MWD teams. which are apparently good by Royal Navy WO Lee Jones swiftly utilised his standards, but still looked cramped even reserve RFIP Powers to make an arrest to our Army colleagues. when a protestor tried to make a break On deck just after lunch we were for it, resulting in the remainder of the treated to a flying display from the protestors becoming compliant. 1435 Flt Typhoons who simulated an JSPSU maintained the Ex JOINT attack on HMS Clyde while flying at GUARDIAN output adjacent to the ‘real life’ supersonic speeds. situations which we routinely deal with. Finally, a recent trip saw a mixed bunch from JSPSU go to Volunteer They’d enjoyed their visit so much they Force Development, Adventurous Point to see the King Penguins and their made scones for the MWD section by way Training and ‘Other Stuff’ ... chicks. With crystal clear surf crashing of a thank you, which the dogs never got Time is found for fun and relaxation onto amazing white sandy beaches you a sniff of! The Falkland Islands between shifts, with opportunities could be forgiven for thinking you were Things are set to remain at a high regularly provided to visit the varied and in the Caribbean - however the snow on tempo for the foreseeable future for abundant wildlife in the Falkland Islands. the ground and the biting wind with a JSPSU in the South Atlantic, with a The facilities at MPC are put to good use, temperature of 0c was a stark reminder of BFSAI-wide capability demonstration, British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI) mission is with inter-section rivalry becoming very our actual location! further exercises and training, FD/AT, an apparent at the recent Go-Karting event, Integration and relationship building upcoming visit from PM(RAF), and 24/7 “To deter any military aggression against the South Atlantic organised by MWD Section. makes a real difference on such a small Operational Output. n Opportunities to try new sports are detachment, so it is encouraged to make overseas territories in order to maintain UK sovereignty”. also on hand. Cpl Owen Tovey recently the most of any chance to show off our established the MPC Kayak Club. At the capabilities. The Joint Service Police and Security Crook’s position, as the sole SP at AIB. His the security of the assets within our AOR recent MPC Sprint Triathlon the RAFP took In May 16, the JSPSU Dog Section in Unit (JSPSU) based at Mount Pleasant duties mainly cover the PS requirements; whilst the MWD section has a range of 1st and 2nd places with Cpl Angela Bell the Falkland Islands played host to the Complex (MPC) and Ascension Island however he routinely patrols with outputs in support of the JSPSU and BFSAI finishing ahead of the field with a time of children of Class KS1 from Mount Pleasant Base (AIB), is an integral part of this St Helenian Police (SHP) to provide mission - providing routine drug sweeps, 73 minutes, beating Flt Lt Iain Blears by Primary School. mission and is currently under the assistance to the Ascension Island. security patrols and assistance to GPD. just over two minutes. In an effort to teach them the command of Sqn Ldr David Cook. It This unity of effort is realised by Providing policing, customs and And, after several attempts, Cpl Mike fundamentals of animal welfare, with both remains busy with a diverse range of utilising the strengths within each section immigration support to Falkland Islands ‘O’ Regan finally caught his first fish in the theory and practical demonstrations, Sgt output. of JSPSU. GPD run shifts around the clock, Government and the government of Falkland Islands, when he landed a mullet Sam Hill said: “We decided to show them This RAF led tri-Service unit with 24/7 policing and security patrols Ascension Island is also a large part of at a popular fishing spot near MPC. what our trained dogs were capable of ... incorporates a blend of Navy, Army and offering reassurance to the Service and what JSPSU personnel are involved in on a JSPSU also has its own Police club without scaring them in the process.” IMAGES CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT): RAF (regular and reserve) Service Police civilian inhabitants of MPC. daily basis. within MPC. The ‘Pig, Snake and Monkey’ The children learned about the five Cpls Steve Whittles and Dominic Coates leading away protestor at a recent BFSAI Exercise; Cpl Max (SP) working together to achieve the SIB / Unit Investigation Element give in- JSPSU provides policing support to offers us all an opportunity to socialise freedoms with demonstrations from PAT, Knight, Cpl Mike ‘O’ Regan, Cpl Benn Grimshaw, security and policing output that ensures house investigative specialisation, tackling both the RFIP, and SHP and can assist in a relaxed all-ranks environment and DD and PD dogs. LReg Alex Rawlston, Cpl Jason McAdam. operational effectiveness for BFSAI. level 3 crimes and above. when service persons are off-base or, if recently hosted the inaugural JSPSU Bar The next day the children submitted The winners of the inaugural JSPSU Trophy Event, held in the Pig Snake and Monkey Police Club at With 43 or the 44 JSPSU personnel This has been a busy and rewarding required to do so, they can exercise their Sports Tournament Trophy competition. their homework, which was marked by BFSAI; Cpl Steve Basset and Cpl Lizzie Morral at based at MPC - working together closely time within SIB, having dealt with Reserve Police powers to police either The indoor sports day theme suited the the dog handlers! Volunteer Point with baby King Penguins. is a necessity. This contrasts with Sgt Paul a number of serious and complex service persons or civilians. investigations as well as assisting the We decided to show them what our trained dogs were By Flt Lt Iain Blears, 2IC Joint Royal Falkland Island Police (RFIP) with Exercises ... Service Police and Security Unit investigations. The PS section undertakes Regular exercises are run by BFSAI HQ, capable of ... without scaring them in the process. a versatile range of activities to ensure such as Ex JOINT GUARDIAN. The most

16 AUTUMN 2016 17 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE FORCE DEVELOPMENT HEADS TO LONDON Air Dog Sgt Zak 7839 notable takeaway was the knowledge the ATSy control points for commercial Force that any reports or information passed and aircrew personnel, with the security AD Zak entered service at the age of 14 was promoted by BFSAI COS, Gp Capt through the intelligence chain that may team taking us through the process that months, passing out of training in July Frampton, to the rank of A/D Sgt for his Development have a potential CT connection are they undertake to ensure the security of 2010. He tried to get an easy posting on loyal, long service to the Crown, and good viewed and assessed by personnel at Heathrow Airport. his dream sheet, but instead was sent to behaviour. Heads to SO15. After lunch we headed to West Viewing the processes in a live RAF Brize Norton to start his career. A/D Sgt Zac became MPC’s latest End Police Station located on Savile Row environment allowed us to discuss He was posted to RAF Benson and RAF official mascot, following a two-year London and were briefed on, and shown the the problems and constraints that the Lyneham before being selected for an gapping of the post, joining the exalted Government Security Zone. operators face on a daily basis - very much overseas posting to the Falkland Islands in ranks of previous mascots such as Sgts Cpl Jack Worthington from Leeming, This designated area of London the same as RAFP face. Behind the scenes August 2012. Dave, Jake, Huggy, Deefa, Kim, FS Bart and reports on the recent three-day Force complies with stringent security measures airside introduced us to the working Out in all weathers patrolling the far WO Duke. Development visit to London by the to reduce the potential of a terrorist attack environment and policing challenges with reaches of MPC with a succession of His new duties encompass a The aim is to raise money for charity Leeming Hub, with the RAF Museum at on the capital. The brief included the contractors and the movement of vehicles handlers, he was a keen, cheeky lad who predominantly ceremonial and welfare and to be photographed at each location Hendon, the MET Police Special Branch, various measures put in place from the in and around aircraft. Our day concluded enjoyed all the different aspects of being role - visiting different sections, the local to provide a picture collage for display the Government Security Zone and training of security staff and employees with a tour of the facilities in Terminal 5. a Military Working Dog. school, attending formal occasions such in the spinal corridor. Op MEMORIAL Aviation Security at Heathrow Airport that work within the zone, to the planning The FD trip was a worthwhile His years of hard work in arduous as the Remembrance Parade in Stanley MASCOT will be raising money for on the itinerary. control measures that ensure buildings experience and allowed personnel to conditions finally caught up with him in and any other tasks around the base that ‘Scotty’s Little Soldiers’ and CBF BFSAI’s provide the best security for people visit areas concerned within UK policing Sep 15, when he was diagnosed with an require affection and a large furry head nominated charity. n Day 1 working within them. which are protected and privileged. arthritic condition in his hips. to pat! Keen to make the most of his It was a lengthy drive from RAF Leeming Further to this we were taken to the This was appreciated by all who took In May 16 as winter started to close in, retirement and in order to keep active with the standard “Are we there yet?” Surveillance Room containing cameras part, increasing our understanding and he struggled further with his ailment and (and enhance his SJAR), A/D Sgt Zac is before we arrived at the RAF Museum in covering important locations around knowledge of Air Power, UK civilian was prescribed painkilling medication shortly going to undertake Op MEMORIAL Hendon for an Air Power and history of London such as Downing Street and policing and more importantly where for the rest of his life. Despite attempts to MASCOT, which involves visiting (and the RAF study. This included the RAF’s Buckingham Palace. It was a fascinating RAFP fit into the bigger picture and how manage his condition, it was no longer cleaning of) every memorial, grave and development over time and aeronautical visit and highlighted where the RAFP we contribute to the security of the UK. n possible for him to carry on as a shift battlefield site linked to the 1982 conflict milestones from balloons and bi-planes PS training fits in and how it mirrors patrol dog. As a result, on 5 Oct 16, He in the Falklands. through to the invention of the jet engine civil police. The final serial of the day was BELOW: Cpl Stu Lewis & Cpl Jake Baker. Explosive Trace Detection (ETD), the swab is and beyond. MOD Main Building to visit the Police and inserted into a machine which heats it and Personnel were tasked with finding Security Liaison Officer or PASLO. samples the vapours for specific chemicals. It out an interesting fact in relation to We received a capability brief and can detect minute traces (e.g., a millionth of a Airpower - such as the tradition for RAF explanation as to how they can be utilised gram); The team at Heathrow Police Station with It’s Official - RAF Police are Superheroes! members of the armed response unit. pilots on missions in the first Gulf War to during an investigation due to their links Cpl Kim Patterson stationed at RAF into the front passenger seat of a patrol sing “Always Look on the Bright Side of into a significant number of police and Northolt tells us about Op TEDDYBEAR car before making a grand entrance with Life”. It was apt that our visit started at RAF security agencies in central London. and how successful some recent the blue lights and sirens. Hendon as the Hendon Police College This was another unique insight into the engagement was with some younger The children, aged 3-4 years old, were was built on the old RAF Hendon site. The capability that the RAF Police possess and military family members ... visibly excited to see the inside of a Police land was gifted by Lord Trenchard, who quite clearly places the RAF Police directly Bright Horizons Nursery is located at car, some of them even commenting after the formation of the RAF became in the forefront of CT and policing on a RAF Northolt and cares for the children that they thought the police were The Met Police Commissioner. joint and national stage. of military families from RAF Northolt and superheroes! PJHQ Northwood and it was the manager, They were given a tour of the car, Day 2 Day 3 Jodi Roth, who reported the ‘Holiday Bear’ including the lights and sirens, which An early start into central London for a The last day saw the team travel to as MIA when I was collecting my child went down a treat - so well in fact that brief from SO15 and representatives of the Police Station at Heathrow airport from the nursery. some kids were harder than others to pry MI5, giving a unique insight into front-line and SO18, Aviation Security police The Holiday Bear was a teddy bear away from the steering wheel! counter terrorism operations. Our host, personnel. Andy Jones, the Station in RAF Uniform that accompanied The children were asked who was Inspector Hunter, with his many years of Chief Superintendent welcomed us the children on holidays away with going on holiday next and whether they experience working in Special Branch, and gave an overview of the roles and their families, with parents sending would like to take the RAFP bear along, discussed various historic cases and responsibilities of his staff and highlighted photographs back of the teddy in astonishingly the son of an RAF Regt brought to light the practical workings of some of the issues and challenges that different countries. Gunner declined the offer! counter terrorism and how the network they face on a daily bases. I was asked if I could supply a new bear It was a welcome change from routine across the country operates. Our host, PC Alan Hughes, gave us and successfully negotiated a donation patrols to interact with the great minds of As part of the brief and tour of facilities, a tour including the station custody of a RAF Police bear from ‘Postal Bears’ for the future and who could potentially be and staff in a positive way. Plus, who we were privileged to be taken through facilities and armoury. We were briefed the children. doing our job in 20 years time. The staff doesn’t love getting called a Super-Hero to the Ops Room where high profile by the armed response officers, CID In June, I attended the nursery with FS were also appreciative of our visit and from a beaming 4 year old? n operations are co-ordinated and the role and the community policing team and By Cpl Jack Worthington, Si Glynn and Cpl Lucy Warrell to present we feel we’ve strengthened community that the military takes in some of these visited the control room. After receiving IMAGE: FS Glynn, Cpl Warrell & Cpl Patterson. GPD RAF Leeming the RAFP bear which was safely strapped relations, by interacting with the children operations was highlighted. The most airside passes, we were taken to one of

18 AUTUMN 2016 19 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE INSIGHT INTO ... THE DFCIT Drill is a Pill to be Taken Twice Daily ! When RAF Akrotiri’s SWO asked for reproach and course participants are Insight to ... The Defence Flying a volunteer to attend the Drill and expected to arrive with a good level of Ceremonial Instructors Course, I leapt at foot drill; I didn’t which left me with a the chance. steeper learning curve. You are taught on Complaints Investigation Team As a bit of a military cabbage, although top of foot drill, arms, stick and sword drill a few would describe me as a lot of - which whilst practicing your lesson, you The RAF Police’s Defence Flying passed to respective Commanding and Tier 2 interview courses, so it is an a cabbage, this course appealed to teach each other. Complaints Investigation Team (DFCIT) Officers for their decision. ideal stepping stone to duties within SIB. me. Arriving day one, I was pleasantly All of this builds up to a full military provides an independent oversight DFCIT investigators are highly The policing of the skies undertaken surprised to find two other Snowdrops, funeral practice which is conducted of the UK Low Flying System (UKLFS) specialised with bespoke training across by the team ensures the integrity of a Sgt ‘Harry’ Harrison and Cpl ‘Kirky’ by the course on the last Thursday and to ensure the safety of those on the a host of competencies including the low flying system utilised not only by our Kirkhouse. Harry was another volunteer, includes learning reverse arms, lining ground and in the air. ability to interpret a range of the technical own Armed Forces, but by those of our but Kirky was there as he was on Recruit party, bearer party and how to dress DFCIT is located at RAF Henlow evidence, such as radar replays, on board partners - all of whom appreciate the Training School. the coffin. and is under the command of Special data collection systems, the effects of enhanced training opportunities afforded The course is a pretty intense three On completion of the course, there is a Investigations Branch (North) (SIB(N)). The atmospheric conditions on aircraft data to them in preparation for operations. weeks with inspections every morning wake held at the RAFA club and the fines team consists of a Fg Off, FS and five Sgts and aircrew terminology. DFCIT is an exciting and interesting and plenty of drill. You are taken for you have incurred throughout the three plus two civil servants who provide the These skills enable the team to deliver posting, with a chance to get an even squad drill twice a day, with more drill weeks, 50p an error of either uniform or investigative interface between the public their key outputs, such as providing greater insight into the aircrew world! n inbetween. drill, are behind the bar for beverages and and aircrew and are a key enabler in the complainants with an understanding for There is very strict way of delivering a a takeaway. ‘safe’ delivery of Air Power. the need to conduct low flying training drill lesson and you are expected to learn Course participants then watch the Through the investigative process, each within the UK. this verbatim and towards the end of the videos that have been made of the squad I cannot recommend the course highly report is checked against the LFS rules Investigations previously undertaken by course you are assessed on this, it’s a pass drilling - starting from day one. This enough. Not only does it make you a DI, and regulations, with any transgressions DFCIT have established there is a positive or fail course, not an attendance. There highlighted how poor our drill was and but it reinstalls military bearing. n dealt with in a timely and robust manner. regard for the rules and regulations is a train-in attitude from the instructors, the amazing and dramatic improvement In consultation with the various tasking aircrew are governed by and in excess of BOTTOM IMAGE: Sgt Rodge Rodgers, whose drill and deportment was without having successfully completed the course. Cpl Kirky Kirkhouse and Sgt Harry Harrison. agencies, and if appropriate, the team will 90% of all flying complaints received are visit complainants to reassure them that properly authorised and flown. the UK military takes its responsibilities In 2015 DFCIT had 183 taskings, 22 of seriously with aircraft activity a vital part which were full investigations, leading to IMAGE: ACpl Steve Cambers, Wg Cdr Russ Foster-Jones, Chief Superintendent Shawn West, simulator. As well as familiarising DCC of maintaining UK airpower through six referrals and 161 office based enquiries. Deputy Chief Constable Knighton, Sqn Ldr Andy Shaw, Sqn Ldr Lee Wales, Flt Lt Sara Daunton). Knighton with the unique roles and rigorous training. During their assignment, DFCIT responsibilities of RAF Coningsby and In excess of 2000 military flying investigators can expect to complete the the RAF Police, the visit provided an complaints are reported to the MOD each Serious Crime Investigations Course (SCIC) opportunity to formally acknowledge year via the Complaints and Enquiries Unit the recently approved Memorandum of at RAF Wittering, Whitehall based Claims Understanding that will in future allow Department and Air Command. RAF Police to use Lincolnshire Police Approximately 10% of these reach custody facilities across the county. DFCIT for investigation and include No.1 Police Wing has a strong all claims for compensation - injury or and multi-faceted relationship with damage, plus all alleged breaches of Lincolnshire Police, one which was further regulations and allegations of flying strengthened by this visit. indiscipline. DFCIT intervention reinforces It is these links that better allows No.1 the MOD’s commitment to take all Police Wing to ensure that RAF stations complaints by the public seriously. Visit Of Deputy Chief within the Lincolnshire Police area of Inquiries involve complainant responsibility continue to receive the best interviews, aircrew consultation, data Constable Lincolnshire possible support from civilian colleagues. collection, and consultation with subject Both guests agreed that the visit had matter experts. Police To RAF Coningsby served to bring their awareness and level DFCIT conducts interviews after of understanding of the context and caution no differently than in any other No.1 Police Wing recently hosted the Superintendent Shaun West, the new challenges faced by RAF Coningsby spheres of policing, with interviewees new Deputy Chief Constable (DCC) Area Commander for the Eastern Area. and the wider RAF community to entitled to the same rights as those Lincolnshire Police, Gary Knighton, Both were given a behind the scenes the fore. n suspected of any other offence. who transferred from Derbyshire tour of RAF Coningsby, including a tour As with all investigation the process Constabulary earlier in the year. Joining of a Typhoon jet and the chance to try involves the unbiased and independent DCC Knighton was colleague, Chief their hand at ‘flying one’ in the training collection of evidence which is ultimately

20 AUTUMN 2016 21 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE NO.1 (TACTICAL) POLICE SQUADRON A Look At Better Case Management No.1 (Tactical) Police Squadron - Supporting (Courts Martial) (BCM(CM)) Wider UK Objectives - Aviation Security One of the tasks of the Office of the against delaying the referral of a suspect Provost Marshal (RAF), is to introduce for charge once the Evidential Sufficiency No.1 (Tactical) Police Squadron (1(T) take down an instructor wearing a red at Southwick Park. Whilst on task she new initiatives and, on 1 Sep 16, Test (EST) is met to pursue further lines PS), the tactical element of No.3 Police man suit. What made it difficult was that encountered a deadly intruder which the following much background work, of enquiry. Wing, continues to deliver operational we had to wear respirators and if the MAPO course had not covered. BCM(CM) was introduced to the Service Not applying the EST at the effect on a global basis. Tasking orders instructor managed to remove it then we “In August, 1(T)PS deployed to the Justice System in order to mirror as appropriate point may result in are disseminated monthly from A3 were out of the scenario. When it got to USA as part of an Aviation Security closely as possible a similar initiative unnecessary enquiries being conducted, Ops to the current Contingent and my turn I jumped in to take the instructor Team. Whilst three of us guarded from introduced to the civilian criminal thus delaying the disposal of the case at Immediate Readiness Flights, whilst the down and within 10 seconds my respirator underneath the shade of the C-17 wing, justice system earlier in the year. subsequent disciplinary proceedings. This prosecutor resources can be better remaining two flights support exercises had been pulled off, oops! It’s lucky I had we watched as an alarmingly large The process is intended to encourage clearly is not in the best interests of all focussed and directed. This will also and provide direct support to other RAF a partner who jumped in to take the intruder made its way towards us. This early referral of suspects for charge, concerned; the victim, the accused or the benefit victims, other witnesses and Police Sqns across the UK. instructor down by himself.” wasn’t the type of intruder we were normally within 21 days of an initial Chain of Command. defendants and free up time within Over the last six months the Sqn has Mid-week, the students travel to RAF expecting to encounter during our guard report, and identify those matters that Prosecutors will review the the Military Court system, SPA and the provided expert aviation security support Brize Norton to practice real-life scenarios duty,” explained Cpl Grant. are in contention by the defence in order investigation prior to the first Service Police. to the RAF Air Transport Fleet and MOD on a mock Hercules proving a useful way “We watched as the 14ft alligator to concentrate efforts and eliminate hearing, identifying the additional Whilst it is still early days, it is envisaged chartered aircraft across the globe and has to visualise threats inside the aircraft first prowled across the runway before nugatory investigative enquiries that may evidence required depending on the that Service Police Case Referrals will be contributed to Operations in, Iraq, Libya, hand and to practice takedowns within stopping to bask in the sun. With a lack of delay a case being brought to trial. anticipated plea. much lighter documents containing only and Nigeria. The Sqn has also helped the confines of an aircraft whilst noting training on how to challenge an unarmed Early engagement with prosecutors, By working in close partnership with the essential evidence with additional to support the wider Force Protection the many obstacles. reptile we called the US Security Forces particularly in serious cases, will assist prosecutors, the Service Police will be evidence following dependant on community which was particularly Once the students pass the who were with us in minutes. They in getting the case referred for charge able to tailor further evidence gathering discussions with prosecutors based evident with our rapid deployment of 1(T) assessments they are qualified to deploy reassured us that the Alligator often visited at the earliest opportunity together depending on that plea, any defence on pleas, defences and direction by PS personnel in response to the alleged on tasks that attract a greater potential of the airfield to lie on the warm tarmac with the available essential evidence. or matters in issue and any directions the Judge. n attempted abduction of a Serviceman risk, such as the high profile deportation and we had nothing to worry about. It Investigators and supervisors will guard by the Judge meaning that police and at RAF Marham. In conjunction with our of the Libyan soldiers from Bassingbourn eventually sulked back into the marshland civilian Police colleagues the RAF Police Barracks last year. beside the airfield, whilst we remained provided reassurance and support to the JSP398 remains the extant Rule of alert for more scaly intruders.” n Service community in response to the Engagement (ROE) for 1(T)PS whilst IMAGES: Military Aviation Protection Annual Adjutant General Corps Parade of Remembrance threat. undertaking armed duties, however Officers Course - 1 Aug 16; Mock Hercules In addition to 1(T)PS providing the there is no amount of training which airframe for use in training exercises; Deadly National Memorial Arboretum 6 July 2016 necessary aviation security, personnel can prepare you for all situations. In May intruder on US military runway. Those that have previously visited the the MPGS Company at RAF Waddington relayed in an account by a mother of are responsible for delivering real-time 2016, Cpl Megan Grant was posted to National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) were in attendance. two serving sons - one returning home security advice to the aircraft’s Captain 1(T)PS from Phase 2 RAF Police Training will be all too aware of its importance as The contingent of parading soldiers safely and the other sadly losing his life, throughout the duration of the task. a centre of remembrance. was led superbly by the band of the AGC, before the laying of wreaths by various Earlier this summer, an aircraft carrying The NMA provides a place for people to providing a visual spectacle for onlookers representatives; including the Regimental VIP passengers, escorted by 1(T)PS reflect on the sacrifices made by Service whilst highlighting the formality and Colonel and WO1 AIR RSM Dransfield. personnel, was forced to land in Algeria men and women, along with a thought importance of members from the Corps The day concluded with attendees after technical difficulties. The team were provoking and educational experience. paying their respects. enjoying the opportunity to mix with their able to deliver the relevant intelligence The MPGS who form a large part of the In addition to the parading soldiers, the respective cohorts and dignitaries, further and security advice whilst securing and Adjutant General’s Corps (AGC) and the remembrance service was attended by embellishing the esprit de corps in all protecting the aircraft in a contentious RAF Police, are enthusiastic participants in past and present members, plus families cap badges. n part of Africa. the event and this year three members of of personnel who have passed away but Amongst the numerous and necessary IMAGE (LEFT TO RIGHT): had served in the Corps. It was pleasing Pte Thompson, WO2 Huzzard, Sgt Rodden. RAF and RAF Police mandated courses to observe that in addition to formal delivered by our busy Operational invitees, members of the general public Training Flight (OTF) is the Military Aviation remained to observe and appreciate the Protection Officers (MAPO) Course. The event and join the service. week long course consists of classroom The Padre emphasized the importance and practical elements and is designed to of those who have gone before and prepare personnel to effectively protect the continuing importance of the esprit the aircraft and passengers should anyone de corps and togetherness which is become disruptive while on board. highlighted in an hour of need. Cpl Stevie Tudor who recently passed The effects of active service on the the course said: “The most enjoyable families of loved ones was poignantly part of the course was when we had to

22 AUTUMN 2016 23 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE IT’S ALL CHANGE AT THE TOP ... It’s All Change at The Top ... The summer months have brought the typical changes in personnel across the Force, with leadership roles as no exception. In an RAF that is ever evolving and looking to the future, we take a peek at some of the personalities who will be guiding the RAF Police for the foreseeable future with a quick Q&A to see what makes each of them tick ...

Wing Commander Jan Knight People will be key in this so everything doing it with the resources at hand. ... work in Deputy Provost Marshal (RAF) I do I’ll must consider how we maintain, That’s the continuing challenge and it sustain and retain our troops. is one I’m still not bored of 22 years in. progress might be Could you briefly tell us Convoy Duties and completed 3 about your career to date? university degrees. What has impressed you most Who has influenced you a better statement I have been in 22 years now, across the RAFP Force so far? most in your career? specialising in Force Protection We all come into a new role with a Our breadth, our continued rigour and A number of our SNCOs, whose blushes as I’m not sure I’ve and Counter intelligence. vision on how we’ll tackle it and move it the good (although albeit necessarily I will spare, and the memoirs of Spike Operationally I completed tours forward - What are the three main areas dark) humour with which everything Milligan, neatly capturing the peculiarly nailed it yet ... in Kuwait, Northern Ireland, Iraq you intend to focus on? is approached. human activity that is military service. and Afghanistan, and I’ve been With the coming together of the FPFHQ on the staff in Air and MoD. my chief focus is to leverage our resources What do you think your If you had to describe your I have commanded 6 Sqn to deliver more security in the UK, while biggest challenges will be? leadership style in three words, RAFP and 3 PW. also contributing fully to Defence’s task Security and policing is always limited by what would they be? In between all this I’ve prompting UK interests in deals with a resource. This is nothing new as the art of Inclusive, but direct. But really ‘work in managed to fit in tours in fractured, fragile and rapidly changing military operations is about deciding what progress’ might be a better statement Scotland, Nuclear weapon world order. is important, want must be done, and as I’m not sure I’ve nailed it yet. n

I am privileged Warrant Officer Franklyn Green We all come into a new role with a to be part of a trade that is a relevant, Provost Marshal’s Warrant Officer vision on how we’ll tackle it and move it tangible Force clearly contributing to be part of a forward - What are the three main areas to the Air mission across a breadth of Could you briefly tell us for the RAF Police, becoming specialist you intend to focus on? specialisations. trade that is a about your career to date? trained in a range of covert skills. People, Empowerment, Heritage. Joined in 1986, after trg posted to RAF St Achieving promotion to Sgt in 1999 What do you think your relevant, tangible Mawgan on SD814 duties, those in the was posted to RAF Valley as a police shift Who has influenced you biggest challenges will be? know will describe it as 813 ½! Sgt, returning to specialist covert duties in most in your career? People, Empowerment and Heritage Force clearly A posting to RAF Gutersloh in Germany 2001 and attaining SI qualification in 2002. Difficult to choose just one person; followed conducting GPD. Promotion Between 2005 and 2008, worked at the anyone who has the passion, drive If you had to describe your contributing to to sub Cpl in 1991 resulted in a posting CJSU, being promoted to FS in 2006. and work ethic whatever the rank/post leadership style in three words, to P&SS(NG) on traffic duties, still at In 2008, I moved to the RAF Police PSD. inspires me. what would they be? the Air mission ... Gutersloh. In 1992 posted to RAF Wittering In 2011 posted to RAF Leeming as the 2i/c Personal, focussed, adaptable. n on the RAFASUPU conducting specialist of the Police Flt before being promoted What has impressed you most across escort duties. In 1994 joined the Covert to Warrant Officer in 2013 and returning the RAFP Force so far? Intelligence Team working in the HUMINT, to PSD. In May 2016 posted into the role of The professional standing and reputation surveillance and undercover environment Provost Marshal’s Warrant Officer. of the RAFP organisation; I am privileged

24 AUTUMN 2016 25 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE IT’S ALL CHANGE AT THE TOP ... Wing Commander Jeff Brock part given the fact that the RAFP is a And Now for Some Fun ... Officer Commanding No.2 Police Wing scarce resource. If you were told you had to leave that factor – should liven things up a Could you briefly tell us be deployed to the French equivalent What has impressed Who has influenced the RAF tomorrow (this is a purely bit and if he can’t make it, then maybe about your career to date? of PJHQ to work on combined French/ you most about you most in hypothetical question - I promise!), Boris Johnson. I left university with a degree in French UK planning for the Libya campaign, 2PW so far? your career? what is your single best memory of and German in 1995, but wasn’t entirely Op ELLAMY. Promotion to Wg Cdr saw The capability and There have been a few. your time serving? PW President Obama; he has dealt with sure where that was going to take me. deployment to Kabul to work in the NATO capacity to respond to The first was my police JK Over a sustained period, command a difficult time in office in a dignified, Initially, I used my languages working Trg Mission to Afghanistan as the chief increasing demands. inspector, who showed of 3PW. calm and assured manner and must for ICI and then Unilever in marketing, but Afghan National Police planner. On return, Nobody wants to let me how leadership have a few interesting stories to tell! I soon realised that I was not motivated by I completed a year on the Advanced anyone down and that should not be done. FG Time spent on the RAFP motorcycles I am a passionate follower of Rugby profit. I then spent a few years in Avon and Command and Staff Course, prior to being really shows with the My immediate on RAFASUPU, there is a lot that Union, having hung up my boots many Somerset Constabulary as a police officer, selected as the Military Assistant to the amount of effort the predecessor impressed wouldn’t survive the edit! years ago; therefore, I would include where my tutor was an ex RAFP A/Cpl. He UK’s 3* Military Representative to NATO Wg puts into all it does. me greatly when I was Clive Woodwood and Jonny Wilkinson. persuaded me to give the Provost Branch and the EU. After a gruelling 3 years at the his 2IC with his ability to JB It’s either the feeling of pride and Andy Kirkpatrick is a climber who has a go and coming from an RAF family, I heart of international relations, I returned What do you inspire people to work for optimism I felt when marching off the taken solo climbing to another level; I didn’t have to think too long and hard to take up my current appointment. think your biggest him. Finally, it has been parade square at Cranwell at the end would like to understand how he deals about it. My first tour was at Linton on challenges will be? a privilege over the last of the commissioning parade or the with the fear of the big walls. Ouse where I was responsible for rolling We all come into a new role with a Instilling a security culture 3 years to have worked sight of my wife when returning from Finally, Dave Beresford is one of the out the MPGS pilot scheme for the RAF. vision on how we’ll tackle it and move it back into the RAF. The RAFP has proved so closely with the most senior defence deployment. key figures surrounding the success of I went on to serve at RAF Aldergrove as forward - What are the three main areas its relevance to the Service and is going and diplomatic personnel and watch British Cycling; I would love to learn how the 2IC of Int & Sy Sqn prior to deploying you intend to focus on? to be in demand for the foreseeable how they shape national strategy and PW There are too many great memories he maintained success for so long. on Op TELIC. On return to the UK, I served Creating an environment where all can future, particularly as homeland security international policy. to single down to just one; it will the briefly as PASLO before taking over as OC develop personally and professionally, has taken on far greater importance and many inspirational people that I have What’s in the number one FIB. As a Sqn Ldr, I was the staff officer ensuring that the Wg gets the direction as the RAF sees some major capability If you had to describe your had the good fortune to serve with that spot on your bucket list? responsible for A4, A5, A6 and media with and support it needs, and helping to enhancements come into service. leadership style in three words, I will look back on most fondly when JK Climb the Old Man of Hoy. HQ RAFP. I then went on to command put the RAFP on firm footing for its next The challenge will be to get every what would they be? I leave. SIB and had a unique opportunity to 100 years. member of the RAF to play their Consensual whenever possible. n FG A long retirement. If you hosted a dinner party with five guests - living or historical, real JB I blew an entire operational or fictional – who would you choose allowance taking my wife to the Wing Commander Paul Webber This was followed by 2 years in Defence the sheer variety of Wg outputs. and why? Maldives. I’m not sure I can top that, Officer Commanding No.3 Police Wing Security and then 2 years as SO2 J3 FP Air JK I don’t really do dinner parties, so I but I’ve always wanted to explore the in PJHQ. What do you think your would avoid. Inca Trail. Could you briefly tell us On promotion to Wg Cdr in Nov 2011, biggest challenges will be? But as an exiled Irishman, enthusiastic about your career to date? I was posted to the Military Assistance Trying to squeeze more capacity out socialiser, obsessive music fan and an PW I love travelling and there are so I joined the RAF in Aug 92, serving as a Group, deploying for a year to Helmand of existing resource. It is highly unlikely amateur late-night philosopher, a night many places I still want to go to so this flight commander on the Intelligence Province as mentor to an ANP Brigadier, that the RAFP will be given more in the pub with Oscar Wilde, Simone de is a hard question; however, I have not and Security Sqn, RAF Aldergrove, and embedded with a USMC mentoring team. resource; therefore, as an organisation Beauvoir, Thomas Paine, Caitlin Moran yet visited Nepal and the Annapurna then as OC Police at RAF Bruggen, In Oct 13, I was posted to HQ 2 Gp as SO1 we have to consistently seek to become and David Bowie would fit the bill. circuit is definitely on the bucket list. before taking an appointment as a flight FP Trg, and assumed command of No.3 more efficient. commander at Initial Officer Training, RAFP Wg in Jul 16. This is not necessarily about working FG Assuming The Saturdays count as Sunbed or skis? RAFC Cranwell. harder, but by working smarter and one - them, Frankie Boyle, Will Ferrell, JK Snowboard! This was followed by a detachment We all come into a new role with a by striving to maintain balance to Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes as Base Security Officer at Ali Al Salem vision on how we’ll tackle it and move it encourage retention. (Basil Rathbone one!) - I think the FG Skiing Airbase, a stint on the Defence Flying forward - What are the three main areas conversation would be lively! Complaints Investigation Team, and you intend to focus on? Who has influenced you JB I like to be active even when I’m on another detachment to Bosnia as The relocation of No.3 RAFP Wg assets still most in your career? JB Stephen Fry, because he’s Quite the beach. That’s why I’m a national an intelligence analyst in J2 Special located at RAF Henlow. Ensuring that No.3 No single individual. I have always Interesting. Dara O’Brien because he beach volleyball referee. Projects. A short stint on EOIT followed, RAFP Wg is best configured to delivery believed that you can learn from anyone, makes me laugh and Brian Cox for before staff roles at Personnel and is mandated outputs. Unification of a even if that is how not to do something! his infectious enthusiasm. The former PW Skis - I don’t have the patience to sit Training Command and then Air diverse organisation. cricketer Phil Tufnell because he’s still for very long and I learnt to downhill Command. Following promotion to If you had to describe your madder than a box of frogs. and cross-country ski whilst in the RAF Sqn Ldr in 2005, I served as COS on What has impressed you leadership style in three words, Finally, Donald Trump for the sheer, and love both. n No.6 RAF FP Wg, taking the newly most about 3PW so far? what would they be? jaw-dropping, I can’t believe he just said formed FP Wg to Basra in Nov 06. The professionalism of the personnel and Humility, loyalty and balance. n

27 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE FORENSIC LABORATORY OFFICER SECONDMENT Historic RAF Police The Lord Chamberlain is commanded Vehicles on the Move by Her Majesty to invite Corporal and 3 TPS have, or are about to become, Mrs Gavin Conder to a Garden Party at custodians of three historic vehicles, all Buckingham Palace.

Land Rover based, for show as part of an It was in April whilst on a squadron before the National Anthem played, training weekend with 3 Tactical Police announcing the arrival of Her Majesty. Forensic Laboratory RAFP Historic and Heritage display. Squadron that I received an excited She was accompanied by HRH Prince Officer Secondment phone call from my wife at home. Phillip, HRH Prince Charles and the A Shorlands SB 401 – this is an improved crew comfort enormously We had received an invitation from Duchess of Cornwall plus some other Cpl Dan Kent, a CSI and fingerprint Armoured Land Rover, developed for compared with the SB301, which had little the Lord Chamberlain’s Office grandly members of her family. laboratory technician on Exploitation use in Northern Ireland by Shorts Bros natural ventilation. Various arrangements stating he had been commanded The Queen’s bodyguard, dressed Flight, is currently on a six-month LTD and built by Shorts Bros, who made of smoke dischargers and public address by Her Majesty to invite us to a Royal similarly to a Beefeater, and a group of secondment with Bedfordshire Cambs aircraft, and Harlands, the famous ship systems were available as extras, as they Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on gentlemen in top hats and tails made & Herts Police Laboratory in Welwyn builders, (both based in NI), with the had been for other Shorland vehicles. the 19th May 2016. ‘lanes’ through the crowd. The Royals Garden City (WGC). name ‘Shorlands’ being an amalgam of Approximately 250 of this mark were built I make no bones about it - I am a made their way down these lanes The chemical lab at WGC was one both names. and supplied for low level security ops massive fan of The Queen and was where select individuals were formally of the first in the country to gain ISO This vehicle was used at RAF ST Athan around the world, with in excess of 1000 absolutely bowled over to have received presented to them but they noticeably 17025 accreditation, an internationally for many years, and similar types were also all marks being produced over the years. Painted a very fetching blue, and an invitation. With a new outfit to buy took the time to chat to other guests recognised standard that ensures all used by the United States Marine Corps. RAF Police Command Vehicle – This with an open back, this vehicle for my wife, I just had to make sure too before taking their tea. fingerprint labs produce the same The SB401, being a Mark 4 Shorland, was vehicle is again based on a V8 engined was used by Provost and my No.1s still fitted! With an opportunity to re-visit the standard of work and results. fitted with a Rover V8 engine and thicker long wheel base Land Rover, with a Security Services Near East Air The big day finally arrived buffet, have a non-alcoholic drink and Cpl Kent has been working alongside armour (8mm). In order to accommodate custom built body by Wadham Stringer, Force in the 1960’s and 70’s and the weather was an ice cream, it did not seem long investigation teams and CSIs to provide this larger engine the radiator was moved modelled loosely around an ambulance and Provost and Security fantastic. Not one to drive before we lined the exit route for Her advice and direction to forensic strategies forward, which is the key recognition type body, to enable operations to be Services (Cyprus) until 1992, into London normally, I Majesty who departed the gardens to as well as using chemical treatments to feature for this model. controlled and conducted from the rear for Royal and Visiting Very decided to on this occasion the sound of warm applause. enhance finger prints and has dealt with The other main improvement over of the vehicle. Often referred to as the Important Persons, and and as soon as we turned The playing of the National Anthem a variety of crime far wider than routinely earlier models was the addition of an ice cream van! Series III Land Rover – other escort duties. n into Constitution Hill, a signalled the end of the event and as seen across the RAF Police. A normal week extractor fan in an armoured cowl nicknamed ‘Pansy Potter’ (why is lost in Metropolitan Police Officer we guests began to leave, I couldn’t at WGC could see the lab dealing with mounted on the roof. This must have the annals of history)! spotting our parking ticket, help but feel privileged to have spent a a murder, attempted murder or firearms waved us on and allowed us to park few hours within the walls of the Palace. offences as well as 50+ volume crime just 50 metres from the palace gates. Reflecting on our day, there are many cases from across a large AOR including We had been warned of a lengthy wait, things I will remember, but my main Luton, Stevenage and South Bedford. but were lucky to skip the queue as all memory is seeing the Queen, and her Taking six weeks for Cpl Kent to military personnel in uniform were to go ability to command the event with her become fully trained, the biggest straight in. energy and beaming smile. challenge has been adjusting to the I never imagined I would ever be As protocol dictates, this was our ISO 17025 compliance. The RAFP now invited to a function at the Palace, so it first and last Royal Garden Party and has access to state of the art, costly was exciting to walk past the tourists, I received my invitation as a result of equipment such as a gel scanner and through the gates and in the front doors being a reservist. In the four and a half direct professional links to the Fingerprint before entering the reception hall that years I have served with the reserves, Bureau, Footwear Department, led out onto the terrace overlooking the I’ve had the opportunity to do some Photography and the Audio Visual garden. The gardens had a Tea Tent for really memorable things, but I can Unit through the secondment which is guests plus a Diplomatic Tent and the honestly say that our day at the Palace is enhancing both the forensic capabilities Royal Tent, plus the poshest porta-loos I a day I’ll never forget. n and investigative resources of the RAF have ever seen. There were two military Police. The secondment also maintains bands playing and approximately 6000 the skillset required for OOA lab people, but despite the numbers it did technicians last seen deployed as part of not feel crowded. the Intelligence Exploitation Force under There was time to take a stroll around By Cpl Gavin Conder, Op HERRICK. The RAFP is the only MOD the gardens and to sample the buffet 3 Tactical Police Squadron asset trained to deliver this vital capability and can do so at short notice. n

28 AUTUMN 2016 29 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE 7 SQN SKILL AT ARMS MEETING 2016 After months of toil and stress, Sgt Manns MPGS, RAF Brize Norton, welcomed 50 members of the Sqn 7 Sqn Skill At Arms to Barrosa Range complex at RMA Sandhurst, before handing over to LCpl Lowthian, MPGS RAF Brize Norton, the Range Conducting Officer. Meeting 2016 Following a comprehensive range brief and outline of the day’s events, LF15 On 9 August 2016, 12 shooting teams from commenced. As current MPGS policy limits LF shoots across 7 Sqn came together to hold the to 200m, LF15 is a progression shoot to test all firers at different positions annual 7 Sqn, Skill At Arms Meeting (SAAM), from distances of 200m and 300m, thus giving the teams the opportunity to fire this year hosted by RAF Brize Norton. from 300m, which would have been challenging for some and make the competition a bit more interesting. With Sgt Manns now holed away in the console, the shooting could start with 2015 winners RAF Benson (A) being first to take to the point. They dealt with the pressure well, scoring a very respectable upon this signal they sprinted to the all day for a team to not complete a shoot 110 out of a highest possible score of 120 - 200M point, made ready, got in the prone and two came along at once! the gauntlet had been thrown. position and attempted to knock down With the clean-up, de-brief and the The 3rd team to shoot was SHQ 7 Sqn. their 10 falling plate targets in the quickest scores added up, the trophies were WO2 Way MPGS, 7 Sqn AWO, entered possible time. presented by WO1 (RSM AIR) Dransfield the console on completion of his shoot Any rounds handed back after all the MPGS. The overall winning team was RAF believing his target had not registered his falling plates were hit, would give that Benson (A), with a total score of 23. shots and was possibly faulty. team a bonus of 0.5 seconds per round, At the other end of the scale, the team When the next team arrived to shoot, taken off their total time. who were there on a rare day out of we paid close attention to that particular First up was RAF Benson (A). When the office and scored a mind blowing 5 lane and target but each time the firer the ‘GO’ was given, they were up and points, was 7 Sqn SHQ! Sqn Ldr Smith (OC shot, the target went down - enough said! sprinting down the range like caged 7 Sqn) nudged WO2 Way to step forward Half-way through and RAF Benson (A) animals being released, with LCpl “Deano” to receive the ‘Worst Shot’ trophy for SHQ! were still in the lead with a slim two-point Millward leading the way like a man on The day finished to much applause advantage over the newest unit to 7 Sqn, a mission. and was certainly successful with barriers MOD Lyneham (A). It wasn’t until the The team finished in a respectable 32.3 breached, friendships made and inter- last team to shoot, RAF Northolt (B), that seconds, yet despite their best efforts service teamwork firmly cemented. n anybody looked to be taking the lead, but they did not win this shoot. as last year RAF Benson held out. RAF Odiham (B) were next, but one of 1230hrs and all teams were eager for their team members ‘tripped’ at the start the traditional Gurkha curry, prepared and would not make it down the range in and cooked that morning in the Gurkha time with the rest of the team - all of who village next to Barossa Range, by LCpl had shot down all plates in good time. Eran Gurung, Pte Tika Rai and Pte The team member who tripped Sailendra Angbuhang - all MPGS from RAF handed in 10 rounds, plus a further 9 Brize Norton. rounds were handed in by his colleagues This feast was enjoyed by all, especially which brought their time down to a the officers who dined at a freshly laid total 29.5 seconds, beating RAF Benson table with silver cutlery! (A) by just 2.8 seconds and winning the At 1330hrs the second competition falling plate. of the day began - a timed falling plate A special mention must go to both shoot, with each four-man team having 40 teams in heat number six, Lyneham rounds, 10 per man. (B) and RAF Northolt (B) who took the By Flt Lt Rob Morter, OC Police Teams were in the prone position at allocated two minutes but still refused to & Security Flt, Brize Norton 300M where they would be signalled, knock down all their plates - we waited

30 AUTUMN 2016 31 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE THE FIRST EVER RAFP PHOENIX RAVEN The First Ever RAFP Phoenix Raven With RAF Force Protection personnel experiencing an increase in aviation force protection taskings, Cpl Dom Williams was sent to complete the gruelling and elite USAF Phoenix Raven course, conducted by the United States Air Force Expeditionary Centre at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J.

Ravens are teams of specially trained A Jodie is a US military word for attempt after having been sent out time security forces personnel dedicated a cadence call, a traditional call-and and again. to providing security for Air Mobility response work song, sung by military We had to sprint into the HOP anti Command aircraft that transit high personnel whilst on marches or runs. clockwise and line-up our work folders, terrorist and criminal threat areas. This was nothing like a traditional shirts folded on top, boots positioned on It was this level of expertise that British military run and the Americans top of the shirt, beret and dog tags in the made Phoenix Raven such a valuable took it very seriously. I found it surreal, left boot and water bottles positioned in course and I attended with a view to feeling as if I was in a movie, but it was front of their own respective folder, name incorporating certain aspects in our own fun and I really got involved and was soon tags facing outwards. Uniformity and specialist training. nicknamed UK. attention to detail was key. The intensive four-week course, first The Jodies helped take my mind off We were constantly reminded that if implemented in 1997, covers subjects the run and the early hour. The instructors we were successful on Phoenix Raven, such as cross-cultural awareness, legal were not satisfied by our efforts at we could be responsible for the security considerations, embassy operations, sounding-off however and this led to the of multi-million dollar air assets and airfield survey techniques, explosive first of many smoke sessions. A smoke failure to pay attention to detail could ordnance awareness, aircraft searches session is where troops have failed to compromise that. and unarmed self-defence techniques. meet the instructor’s high standards and Every session in the HOP started with Students are exposed to more than 70 as a consequence, correctional fitness a warm up called pyramids; an extremely use-of-force scenarios where stress is is given. The instructors completed the intense warm-up combination of press up simulated using role players. exercises with us - 100 jumping jacks, 100 and flutter kicks with instructors walking Exams were a regular occurrence rounds. Many bloody noses and rocked combination of injuries and failure to Training includes instruction and squats, 100 cross overs, all to a four count. around the room asking aviation FP meaning teams would get together for students later, a further two students meet training objectives. The rest of us realistic practical exercises in anti- related questions. revision sessions each night. were RTU. After successful completion ‘future Ravens’ were deployed in six-man terrorism/force protection, weapon Week 1 We were taught strikes by numbers, At the start of every lesson and before of the ASP baton phase and Redman teams on exercise to an empty airfield. system security, verbal judo, combatives, Nicknamed ‘Hell Week’ and is the similar to military drill - number one we could take a seat the OC would shout assessment, we were trained in further All teams were assigned the US tactical baton employment and advanced introduction to the House of Pain also always a left foot step, number two the “RAVENS!”, all students were then to shout combat, including Brazilian Ju Jitsu. equivalent of a 4 tonne LGV to look after firearms proficiency. known as the HOP, where troops get strike move on the bag and three, the in true American fashion “GET SOME” whilst deployed and were faced with over ‘smoked’ if they’ve made mistakes. move back. before being allowed to take their seats. Week 3 20 scenarios, testing all of our recently Day 1 We began training for the highly It sounds simple but inevitably We were taught advanced weapons taught skills. On successful completion of I completed the RAVEN initial fitness anticipated Redman Fights, learned someone would strike the wrong pad. Week 2 tactics, clearing buildings and protecting the final exercise we headed back to base test. To pass the first day candidates are unarmed combat and how to conduct This happened a lot, particularly when Opened with the highly anticipated assets and were equipped with to prepare for graduation. required to complete 57 strict press-ups in Krav Maga weapon takeaways. In addition, fatigue set in from the constant smoke Redman Fights. After hours of training simunition kits. Simunition is training I was fortunate enough to successfully a minute, 52 sit-ups in a minute, followed we prepared to fight an equally skilled sessions and as a result we’d be smoked we were made to stand in a circle with ammunition rounds designed to be fired graduate as a Phoenix Raven and found by a 1½ mile run. This initial test saw and sized opponent in the dreaded again. In classroom sessions we were headgear and chest protectors on, through police and military weapons, the course to be well-structured, in-depth three unfortunate candidates returned to Pancreas Fights. taught how to use verbal judo. holding a pad to keep the tested student similar to a round but containing a plastic and it really put me through my paces. unit (RTU). The five-minute rounds of fighting This is a great way of de-escalating a in the circle. paint filled tip. We were taught how to fire It was a great life experience and I found inside the HOP were assessed on situation with the use of words alone and One by one we would enter the circle, right and left handed with both primary learning things the ‘American way’ a real Day 2 techniques taught, with victory by way of we were made to run through multiple pick up a baton and use the strikes taught and secondary weapon systems at day eye opener. n My first experience of running the knockout, tap-out or points decision. The mock scenarios. to defend ourselves against one of the and night, which proved to be a real ‘American way’; starting at 0500hrs in walls were covered by lesson mnemonics Other lessons included individual eight Redman attackers (an instructor challenge for some. a four rank formation in step to the that we would study on water breaks in protective measures, conducting airfield dressed in a Redman padded suit wearing instructor’s cadences. The instructors sang between sessions. assessments, aircraft familiarisations boxing gloves) who would rush in from Week 4 Jodies and the troops would sound-off by There is a strict way to enter the HOP, and various other force protection any one of the four corners of the HOP. Was final test week and graduation, echoing these. something we didn’t grasp until our 5th related lessons. We were each to endure two, one-minute having lost nine students from a

32 AUTUMN 2016 33 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE PROVOST PARADE Provost Marshal (RAF) MWD UK Trials 2016 Exercise JOINT WARRIOR The use of MWD’s within the RAF has been documented - A First for The Provost Marshal’s Dog Unit since the early days of aircraft manufacture, when guards of Newly set up to support the RAF with multiple Military Working RAF installations would take their pets to work in order to Dog (MWD) capabilities, the Provost Marshal’s Dog Unit (PMDU) assist them in detecting and locating the presence of opened its doors in Feb 16. Designed to support all Force unauthorised personnel.

Protection (FP) elements and to deploy at a moments notice, RAF Police Dog Teams are now On September 3rd 2016, the 53rd left awaiting the results. Cpl Dixon and employed in a variety of roles and MWD trials took place at RAF Halton. Baco were through, but unfortunately the EX JOINT WARRIOR was the perfect opportunity to show what it locations around the globe and are Throughout the year, 181 Patrol Arm True young team of Cpl Nicholls and Jitte just essential in supporting the Police & (PAT) Dog Teams had been assessed missed out, doing well finishing 6th. They will provide. Security effort. and scored and a final 12 were selected shall return! The first Military Working Dog Trials to compete for the overall supreme So with everything in place and ready Apr 16 saw the first three RAF Police dog The exercise continued at pace numerous opportunities to demonstrate was in 1957 at the RAF Police Depot, champion 2016. to go, an array of distinguished guests and handlers and their MWDs, Sgt Andrew throughout with the MWD teams the differing MWD capabilities the PMDU RAF Netheravon, with the aim to Throughout the week, the dog teams VIP’s arrived and took up their positions Walker, Cpl Nikk Castle and Cpl Kieran constantly employed and on the last is striving to provide for the RAFP and improve standards across the Force and were inspected by the Provost Marshal’s with the principal guest being the Jones travel up from the PMDU at RAF push to the final inject area, Cpl Jones and wider FP Community. n encourage handlers to take an active Dog Inspectors and tested on their canine Force Protection Force Commander, Air Henlow to the exercise area at RAF MWD Borik found themselves travelling part in improving their teams’ standard knowledge and first aid. They then carried Commodore Frank Clifford OBE RAF. IMAGES BY: Cpl Kieran Jones and MWD Borik Kinloss. They were to provide assistance via helicopter across the Moray Firth to of efficiency. The same aim remains to out a round each of obedience & agility, Repeating the obedience & agility and subject matter expert advice to the Tain training areas. this day. two-man criminal attacks and a timed and criminal workout aspects, a nigh on exercise personnel. The final test was to process eligible Mr Charles Edward Fricker, a civilian dog hangar search. The scores are totalled up flawless performance from Cpl Dixon After well received capability persons from a dangerous and potentially trainer at RAF Netheravon, is believed to with the top five progressing to the final and his canine partner saw them put the demonstrations by Cpl Jones and his hostile area. This provided the perfect have been the specialist attributed with on the Saturday. disappointment of the year before behind multi-role, Non-Combatant Evacuation opportunity to demonstrate how all the introducing dog trials to the RAF Police. Representing RAF Northolt were Cpl them and were awarded with 1st place Operations (NEO) dog Borik - a capabilities put on to the ground could His work within civilian dog training clubs Chris Nicholls with MWD Jitte, and Cpl and overall champion! combination of a Patrol dog and search, be self sufficient for up to 36 hours whilst guided his decision to champion the idea Dean Dixon with MWD Baco, returning for The rain managed to hold back just plus Cpl Castle with his Arms Explosive carrying out this NEO task efficiently. of the RAF Police holding their own event another shot at the title following a 4th long enough for the trophy winners to Search (AES) dog Hodor; the troops In all, this was a hectic and thoroughly and these took the same form as civilian place finish the previous year. After a hard receive their rewards and get the dogs from 1 Sqn RAF Regt understood the enjoyable exercise that provided organised trials. fought week the handlers were anxiously to cover! capabilities at their disposal and were For Cpl Dixon, all the time and effort immediately keen to exploit the assets. had been worth it and he could head off Cpl Castle was assigned with MWD to pre-deployment leave with his head Hodor to the foot patrols that were held high. As for Baco, this Dog finally had consistently deployed across the training his day! area, aiding in the detection of any arms MWDs also compete for ‘Best Dog’, and explosives threats that the foot with the ‘Drissell’ trophy being awarded patrols may have encountered. to the best overall Service Police Dog, This enabled expedited movement, covering all aspects of their training from enhancing the patrols’ speed through bite work and stand-offs to property vulnerable points and arduous terrain. search and tracking. The 2016 winner, and Cpl Jones, not one to be outdone, also representing RAF Northolt, was Cpl found himself on patrols in quick Ross Hedges with SPD Lena. n succession with MWD Borik assaulting enemy held positions. With the swift movement to kinetic operation, Cpl Jones and MWD Borik engaged in contacts and detained enemy threats once captured. By Cpl Richie Butler By Cpl Kieran Jones (PMDU) IC RAF Northolt MWD Section

34 AUTUMN 2016 35 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE THE RAF POLICE SHOOTING SHARP The RAF Police Shooting Sharp May saw the RAF Police’s first entry into the RAF Regiment Operational Shooting Competition (OCS), held annually at the National Shooting Centre in Bisley, Surrey.

Primarily a RAF Regiment event, in the Urban Contact Match for A/Cpl competitors consisted of 15 teams Liam Duffin. Team Captain Fg Officer from the RAF Regiment and RAux Lockhart walked away with a bronze Regt Sqns, alongside visiting teams medal, placing 3rd in the Individual Prone from the German Luftwaffe, French Aggregate event. Air Force, US Air Force, MPGS and the One highlight for the RAFP Team RAFP. Competition was fierce, with was the Falling Plates Shoot, a knockout the RAFP Shooting Team putting in a league where two teams compete in each strong performance. heat. The objective is for both teams to The two week OSC comprises a total of sprint 100m, adopt the prone position 10 shoots, with a trophy and medals up and shoot nine metal plates at a range of for grabs for each one. 200m the fastest. Week one serves as a training cadre, The RAFP team knocked out seasoned giving competitors a chance to zero competitors 34 Sqn RAF Regt in the first weapons, get their point of aim for each heat in seconds. distance and firing position and practice To mark their first entry into the OSC, each of the shoots ranging from 10m up the RAFP Shooting Team donated a new to 25m for pistol, and up to 500m for rifle. trophy to the competition, the Griffin Cup, As soon as week two hits, the competition which will now be competed for in an begins and every round counts. annual RAF Regt Vs. RAFP match. A physical event, many of the shoots This new shoot, pits that year’s RAFP involve a 100m dash between firing team against the top six individual RAF points before engaging targets, one of Regt shots across their 15 teams. which starts with a 500m run to the first Needless to say, a challenging shoot, firing point. the RAF Regt took home the trophy on The OSC is open each year to all this occasion, but with the experience RAFP Sqns, and this year’s inaugural gained this year, the RAFP are determined contribution was made up of six A/Cpls to reclaim it - hopefully at OSC 17. n from C Flt 1(T)PS, and Team Captain, 3PW’s IMAGES (CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE): Fg Off Lockhart - all from RAF Honington. A/Cpl Liam Duffin, C Flt 1(T)PS; RAFP Shooting Team, A/Cpls Duffin, Knowles, Noone, Sweeting, With 140 competitors, the RAFP team Fry, Evans, and (front row) RAF FP Force Cdr Air put in a sterling effort across multiple Cdre Frank Clifford, and RAFP Team Captain Fg events, with performances including 27th Off James Lockhart; Fry and Evans taking time out in between shoots; Cpls Matthew Evans, in the Pistol Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Jamie Knowles, Liam Duffin, all from C Flt 1(T)PS Match for A/Cpl Sam Sweeting, and 18th receiving competition briefing; RAFP Griffin Cup.

36 AUTUMN 2016 37 PROVOSTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE PARADE RAFMSA INTER-SERVICE ENDURANCE KARTING No.5 RAFP Sqn RAFMSA Inter-Service Annual March Endurance Karting

The Royal Air Force Motorsport • Premier - Kart National B (Novice) or & Shoot Association has many sports, such as above. This licence requires medical the RAFMSA Inter-Service Endurance certification and an ARKS test to be Karting Championship and RAF Premier taken before racing for the first time. Competition Kart Championship and is formally ARKS tests can be arranged at most recognised by the RAF Sports Board and MSA-approved kart tracks, or through In June, RAF Wittering classed as a duty. the RAFMSA. Karting is run between April and • Endurance - Kart Clubman or above. hosted the 2016 No.5 RAFP October and consists of six to seven races This may be obtained on race day and per year with each race lasting between does not require medical certification Squadron March and Shoot 2½ - 3 hours. These are team events with a or an ARKS test. minimum of two and a maximum of four Competition. As ever, the drivers per kart. Cost 2015 saw grids of up to 44 karts and the event was well attended with championship includes Royal Navy and • Membership - Approximately £60 per Army teams and is a National sport. The year, one off payment. (Some stations Saturday Mornings involve practice six teams from across the rounds cover most of the UK, including split payments) until about 1430 hours, then a drivers Larkhall, Dunkeswell, Fulbeck, Clay Pigeon, • Practice fees - £35 - £45 per Kart per briefing for the race followed by Squadron competing for the title. Three Sisters, Rowrah and Llandow race weekend. qualifying. circuits. • Race Fees - £75 per race per Kart (These Due to uncharacteristically high final stage of the competition would have The RAF Championships at Dunkeswell are normally covered through Station Race temperatures on the day, the event a significant impact on the overall results. Race Circuit – Mansell Raceway, near PED Flights and SIF) Karts will be placed on the grid ready for planners made the decision to amend With tension and anticipation Honiton had 44 Karts on the start grid, the • Fuel - £20 - £30 for whole weekend. the 2½ – 3 hour endurance race. Once the traditional programme. mounting, the results were counted largest field ever. • Other Costs involve food and drink - all drivers are in place they await the red The morning started with smiles and verified. OC No.5 RAFP Sqn had the Some participants have their own personal expenditure. lights to go out and the “Go, Go, Go” - it’s and high spirits during the safety brief honour of announcing that the RAFC karts, especially if they compete in then left to the 40+ karts to race to the until that is, the endurance stands were Cranwell team were the 2016 March & civilian competitions but when racing It sounds a lot; however, most stations first corner ... what could happen?! explained to competitors! Shoot winners. in RAF Championships you can use the have a good relationship with SIF/Messes/ Race incidents will happen, from As H-hour struck and the first team The post event BBQ provided the ideal club karts. Welfare and PED Flights. Cost of weekend engines blowing, chains breaking, set off around the airfield, those smiles opportunity for personnel to meet with per person to race is approximately £60 - punctures and not forgetting the and high spirits were replaced with members of the squadron they would So what is involved? £90 dependant on how many members changeable weather. grimaces of determination as terrain not routinely work alongside and it was First of all, get in contact with the kart per team. When they do, panic ensues in the was hard under foot and the blistering announced that the 2017 March and club on station, if here is one! The main pit lane but the teams work together to heat caused early fatigue. Effort levels Shoot competition will be hosted by stations including Brize Norton, Marham, Race Weekend Preparation have their kart back out on the circuit never diminished though, with all teams ‘Team Coningsby’. n Lossiemouth, Valley, Cosford and many All Karts need to be prepped for transport, as quickly as possible, re-joining the pressing on and achieving some very more have clubs. Once you express cleaned and in some cases ready to just mayhem and excitement that is the RAF impressive finishing times. IMAGES FROM TOP: your interest, you will literally be thrown drive on track. Shelter, spares, tools, race Endurance Championships. Next were the endurance stands. Team RAF Wittering - Cpl Dunlop RAFP, Pte Rai, in at the deep end. During your time suits, helmets, gloves, footwear and fuel Overall the RAF Inter-service Endurance Pte Limbu MPGS entering the second stage of Following the brutal tyre flipping event the M&S in the gruelling heat of RAF Wittering’s at the club you will learn the basics of all need to be prepared too. Karting Championship has the excitement was the team stretcher run which relentless summer heat; Team RAF Valley - “With the mechanics of the Kart along with Race weekend involves normally and enjoyment of any adrenaline fuelled proved to be a significant test of the a magazine of 30 rounds LOAD!!” LCpl Lewis, changing tyres, changing sprockets travelling to the circuit on a Thursday motorsport. During the course of the teams’ physical and mental robustness, LCpl Williams and LCpl Jones, exhausted at this (gears) refuelling and other performance evening or Friday morning, setting up competition you will embrace the team stage prepare to fire at a figure 11 target within whilst promoting a healthy level of the designated time limit at 25 metres under enhancing changes. your race pitch and preparing your work spirit, mental and physical agility, the competitiveness. direction of Sgt Rhodes; Team RAF Waddington area for the duration of the weekend. competitiveness, focus and discipline of After a well-earned water break, teams - Pte Hayes, LCpl Lewis and Pte Evans on the Eligibility Fridays are practice days and can be 10- this sport. second leg of 3, a 300 metre timed stretcher dash were marshalled on to the 25 metre range with a 90kg dead weight over undulating All events are open to serving military 15 minute stints to shake down your kart. More information about RAFMSA where it rapidly became apparent that the ground; Winning Team RAF Cranwell - OC No.5 personnel, as well as those with a This provides drivers an idea on what lap Karting, where to do it, and how RAFP Sqn, Sqn Ldr Lee Wales presenting Team connection to the Services. Competitors times they’re achieving and if any changes to participate, can be obtained by Waddington Captain Flt Lt Kynaston with the By WO2 Craig Turner - James prestigious 2016 March & Shoot Trophy, flanked also require a valid MSA Competition need to be made to suit the circuit. You contacting Sgt Kurt Smith, RAF CIOPs by LCpl Smalley and Pte Holt. Licence as follows: can be on track for approximately 5 hours. South, 95237 ext. 6774. n

38 AUTUMN 2016 39 SPORTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE SPORT RAF Police ‘At Home’ Day Comes To Halton

RAF Halton, the ‘home for sport’, hosted The winners from each game faced the Cannon Run which included netting, the 2nd RAFP at Home Day at the end of one another, whilst the losers battled it holes in walls, construction of a cannon June and it was a knock-out! out for the Hairy Chest Award. However, and talcum filled balloons. The letter The ground was firm and the weather as no team names had been put forward, box followed, with space hoppers, pools held up, the grass had been freshly cut we do not know what team actually won, of foam and attempts to throw balls and the tents have been erected, setting so it turned out that everyone was a through hoops. the scene for this year’s At Home Day. winner ... my team really won though! The final two rounds were The Chain, The highly anticipated event came to It was then lunch, providing the much where a hoop was passed along the team RAF Halton on the last day of June, kicking needed energy in readiness for the ‘It’s a before an attempt to throw it over a pillar off with an introduction from the Deputy Knock Out!’ in a single attempt, followed by the last Provost Marshal (RAF), Wg Cdr Jan Knight A total of 20 teams entered and it game of the day which included elements and a compulsory health and safety brief. began with another warm up, this time of all the games. Then, time for the most difficult part of to childhood nursery rhymes - yes this The final round was close but the Conquering the day ... the group photo! really happened! Bonus points were overall winners were the Barbarians from Beginning at 1030 hrs, soft ball was awarded for the groups who showed the 7 Sqn. Throughout the day, the RAF Ben Nevis for the the game of choice. FS Laidlaw, PTI most effort and enthusiasm; four through Halton Police Flt raised £268 for the RAFP RAF Halton, used all of his wealth of to one - this could mean the difference welfare fund with a numbers board raffle RAF Benevolent Fund experience to get 200 + RAFP warmed between 1st and 5th as only four teams and the Provost Parade merchandise stall up, introducing dynamic stretches to would make it to the final. sold branded RAFP goods. invigorate those muscles some of us did The first three events included the With food, relaxation, camaraderie and Squadron Leader Samantha Bunn, and means organised a Ben Nevis themed not know existed. No time for sleeping Teletubby Run, where teams battled it a quiz by Sgt Elliott to mark the end of this No.4 RAFP Sqn OC, shares with us the to make her Bake-Off. policemen on this day! out across an inflatable deck to throw very successful day, a massive thank you anguish of seeing a friend tackle a life as easy as I have to say the 2IC took The RAFP were divided into four teams, hoops onto pillars, all while dressed as must go to the organisers of the entire serious, life-changing illness, plus the possible, whilst to judging like a duck to water taking turns to bat and field. Although a Teletubby, The Relay, which included event – Cpl Scott Southern and FS Dawn inspiration this has provided her and maintaining her in his apron - looking rather a friendly game, we all realised early planks of wood attached to feet, large Bellingham Thank you for a great day! n No.4 RAFP Sqn to look at ways in independence. more like Mary Berry than Paul on this was no laughing matter as the wheels and oversized sacks and The which to raise funds for the RAF Not only has Hollywood! Needless to say, motivational words of ‘encouragement’ Cube which again involved sacks, a large Benevolent Fund ... Sara benefitted it was a resounding success from opposite sides were heard every inflatable slide and bean bags thrown Two years ago in July 2014, I received a from the RAF and the total for this topped time a fielder dropped the ball. at targets. message from a close friend’s sister. That Benevolent Fund, £70.00 which is included in our total so far. Round 2 began with some impromptu message told me that Sara Howarth ... yes but so has her family. On 25 Jun 2016, the No.4 RAFP Sqn dancing where teams were able to win Flt Lt Sara Howarth, the first SO3 A1, HQ It made me realise, if I didn’t already, Team - joined by some members of RAF By Cpl Callum MacMillan some bonus points before going into RAF Police, had been taken seriously ill. So that life is short and there may be a time Lossiemouth MT, an absolutely fantastic ill in fact, that it was touch and go as to when we, all of us, need help. group of three local civilians, Giles, Tracey whether she would survive or ever be the Now for Sara, the purchase of a watch and Charlotte and with Base Camp same again. that helps her deal with her epilepsy manned by Louise Gordon - did it! Sara suffered a massive Subarachnoid is invaluable and in the grand scheme The Ben was conquered and Haemorrhage, a bleed in the brain, which of things, not hugely expensive. But, collectively the group raised £2605.02. is quite simply life-threatening and can even more precious than that, she has The support has been amazing and I be fatal. It is also a rarer type of stroke. been able to have some time away in absolutely know that this money is being She managed to survive the emergency a safe environment with her family, in used for good all over the country and surgery and has a large titanium plate in accommodation provided by the RAF is appreciated, but let’s not rest on our her skull to prove it! Benevolent Fund. laurels. Two years on, despite the fact she now It started with an idea by ‘Team Lossie The No.4 RAF Police Sqn total sits leads a very different and difficult life, the BF’ - the Ben Nevis Challenge. This was a at £1184.84p with more fund-raising Sara I met eight years ago, who supported perfect way to kick start the fund-raising ideas to come with Bake-Off Part 2, me after a tough tour in Iraq, is still here. and integrate the RAF Police with the ‘The Great RAFP Biscuit-Off’, just around She faces every day with her old sense of MPGS ... forming the No.4 RAFP Sqn Team. the corner! n humour - apparently swearing more, but In the build-up, the Ben Nevis that’s not really noticeable! Challenge Team took to training by Sara’s plight gave me the necessary completing parts of the Speyside Way - kick up the rear to organise on-going fund not that we could see much of the Spey raising events within the Sqn in order WO Downing! to support one of the many charities In order to recover, and in the interest that have provided her with the ways of carb-loading, Cpls Carver and Harrigan

40 AUTUMN 2016 41 SPORTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE SPORT

It was the battle between white caps fumbled ball pass allowed the SWP to The SWP responded well and pushed and black caps, as the Royal Air Force snatch it up and break the momentum. the RAFP back, winning a scrum with Police rugby team took on their South The RAFP came back immediately yards of the try line. Again, the extra Wales Police (SWP) counterparts at the with a strong charge by No.12 Corporal power of the SWP forwards prevailed and iconic Cardiff Arms Park, the home of Jack Lowe, followed by No.20 Corporal the Welshmen went over for a try. the Cardiff Blues. Leighton Hughes stopping a marauding But the RAFP kept coming back and Inspired by a morning visit to the SWP forward in its tracks. launched a series of ferocious drives at the Millennium Stadium next door, and Unfortunately, he paid for his SWP line. Their never-say-die spirit was having prepared on the 3G pitch used enthusiasm just before half time, as a mid- repaid when No.16 Si Pilkington was finally by the Wales rugby side, head coach air tackle caused him to land awkwardly able to break through the SWP line at 78 Corporal Clive French felt his men were as and injure his lower back, though he minutes and score a consolation try to ready as they could have been to take on was eventually able to walk off the field end the game at 22-5. the South Wales Police. unaided. Coach Corporal French was still pleased A side who had the benefits of a longer Alas the momentum was now with with his team’s performance, regardless period playing together as a team, as well SWP, and on the cusp of half-time the SWP of the final result, saying: “It was a fiercely as their impressive physical size. finished a period of sustained pressure competitive match, but you’re not going The RAFP started strong with an early with a try which they converted to make to get much different when thirty police push up the field to the SWP goal, but the score 12-0 to the SWP at half-time. are on the field. were quickly reversed before the match The RAFP began the second half “My team definitely went for it and settled into a mid-field contest dominated brightly with No9 Joe Parkin throwing his tried to play an expansive game. We’re in by scrums for the first ten minutes. As body against one of the big SWP forwards a development stage at the moment with would be the case throughout, the and stopped him short. a lot of young guys coming through, so greater bulk of many of the SWP players The clear SWP size advantage in scrums we’ll take the result, but scoring the last would prove decisive in coming off best showed again as a powerful drive pushed try at Cardiff Arms Park was still a highlight in scrums. the RAFP back several metres, allowing for us.” RAF Police Battle It Out in Welsh Rugby’s RAFP No14 Corporal Dom Williams the SWP to break away and score a try at RAFP rugby will now prepare for more managed a great breakout from the 48 minutes which they failed to convert to high-profile fixtures, including a winter contesting mass, but was stopped from increase their margin to 17-0. tour of New York City to play against the his rush to the goal by a harsh knock- It seemed the Snowdrops’ tenacity New York Police as well as bringing the on decision. The RAFP’s luck went from was going to pay off when their No14 sport to disadvantaged children. bad to worse as SWP scored a try at 23 Corporal Dom Williams received the ball They will also take on the RAF Fire Field of Dreams minutes, though they failed to convert and sprinted away from the near the half- Service at Allianz Park, home of the after hitting the goal post. way line. He was well on his way when Saracens. n The RAFP responded with sustained the referee blew up after the touch judge By LAC Iwan Benneyworth IMAGES BY: LAC Cathy Sharples. pressure, charging up the field before a flagged him off-side.

42 AUTUMN 2016 43 SPORTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE SPORT Lincolnshire Ashes 5 Sqn V SIB(North)

On 15 Sep 16, the Special Investigations and 10 respectively, however, accurate Branch (North) (SIB (N)) Cricket team bowling by Camm and Filo accounted for travelled the short distance to RAF their demise. Waddington to take on 5 Sqn in a 25 Sqn Ldr Lee Wales who had earlier overs- a- side match to decide the bowled with great gusto for little reward, holder of this year’s ‘Lincolnshire Ashes’. came to the wicket. He had all the ‘gear ‘, In beautiful weather conditions, 5 Sqn including his own bat and pads, serving won the toss and put SIB (N) into bat. as an early warning to the SIB(N) bowling Umpire Sgt Dan Flett took his position attack. In company with Shorthouse, and the game was underway. they took the attack to the SIB with an Sqn Ldr Dino Filo and Sgt Craig outstanding partnership of 70+ runs, Berry were sent out to provide a solid caning the SIB bowling to all parts of the start, however, it was soon clear that ground. this wouldn’t happen and the two of The partnership was ended when RAF Police them were back in the ‘hutch’ having Prestwood accounted for Shorthouse taken the score to 2 for 2, largely due to who made an excellent 34. Cpl Francesca the accuracy of 5 Sqn bowler, LCpl Ian Smith then joined Wales in the middle Rugby Team Shorthouse. and between them saw 5 Sqn home to Batting next was the big hope, Sgt victory with 5 overs to spare, with the Andy Camm who along with the skipper, latter unbeaten on 42. Flt Lt Jim Halliwell, provided some much 5 Sqn were worthy winners of a game Appear On needed stability with a stand of 64. Once played in a great spirit and a re-match Halliwell had departed for 17, WO Mark next summer is eagerly awaited. Prestwood made his way to the crease, A massive thank you to Cpl Nigel Lisowski however, within minutes, both he and for organising the fixture and arranging Live TV Camm were sipping water in the pavilion the post-match BBQ and drinks and to having departed for 0 and 28 respectively Sgt Dan Flett for kindly volunteering with Flt Lt Gav Brockie somehow to umpire. n stride by carefully recreating play which taking two wickets with his inaccurate Members of the RAF Police Rugby was open for discussion by the presenters ‘grass cutters’. and guests. From the palpable excitement Flt Lt Jono Colley and FS Steve Furphy, Team put their skills to the test on a of the opening credits, the hustle and managed to stem the flow of wickets, bustle of the studio made the one-and-a- scoring 21 and 3 respectively, before Sgt very different pitch, with a national half hour show pass by quickly. Rob Smith and Cpl Barijon Kite entered With the BT production team signalling and quickly left the fray having mustered TV appearance on BT Sport’s Rugby the end of the broadcast, Officer in 0 between them. Charge, Flight Lieutenant ‘Jono’ Colley Sgt Jon Caffrey managed to squeeze Tonight programme. reflected on his time in front of the 7 runs, though the innings came to an cameras and said: “We’ve all had a end when Cpl Ewan Howieson became The high energy weekly show members travelled from stations across thoroughly good time and it’s been a the 5th SIB player to depart without is filmed in front of a live studio the country to take part in this special unique experience. troubling the scorer. Cpl Nigel Lisowski audience with presenters who occasion. “We are a team that encourages and Cpl Pete Rickwood also finished with have played the sport at the Head Coach, Corporal Clive French said: participation for all abilities and we hope 2 wickets each. highest level. “This is a really fun opportunity for us and we’ve been able to show how well we SIB(N) had set 5 Sqn a target of 114 in It sets out to entertain and with lots of new players coming through work together tonight.” n 25 overs to win and remained in confident inform with reviews of all the at the moment, any chance we’re given mood as they took the field and this IMAGES BY: SAC Matt Baker. best action from the previous to meet helps us to develop and build on mood was made all the better as the 5 week, previews of games and the strength of the team as a whole.” Sqn openers, Cpls Alex Jeeves and James headline stories. It was the Fresh from their performance at the Reburn both came and went very quickly. job of the 12-man RAF Police iconic Cardiff Arms Park, the RAF Police This brought Cpls Steve Cambers team to demonstrate play team, the aptly named ‘Flying Pigs’, took and Rickwood to the crease who on the studio pitch and the glare of the studio cameras in their managed to steady the ship, scoring 7

44 AUTUMN 2016 45 SPORTTHE MAGAZINE OF THE RAF POLICE SPORT concerned that their manager may have One Flight Sergeant’s Dream Team got a few ideas for pre-season training! It was also good to see that none of the players refused a single request When RAF Policeman FS Brian Knight would be of any catering received, it was get the players out of their hotel rooms to made of them during the visit, for either knew that his boyhood football team decided to wait until the final schedule relax and ‘switch-off’ for a while. The team photographs or autographs. Plymouth Argyle was going to be of league matches was completed which gained a creditable 2-2 draw which set Lunch was then taken in the Officer’s playing Portsmouth in the Sky Bet would in turn decide the dates of the them up for the return match in Plymouth Mess, prior to the team embarking on Division Two play-offs, he was convinced matches. 72 hours later. the four hour coach journey back to that he would be able to assist them I felt as though I was in the back garden When questioned after the match Plymouth. This recovery session meant in overcoming their opponents, and of Portsmouth and plotting their demise by the media, Plymouth Manager they maintained a regular sleeping fulfilling a lifetime’s ambition of seeing which felt good as I work with a large Derek Adams said: “We just want to routine and were able to conduct a them contest the final at Wembley. amount of Pompey fans who were telling get ourselves recuperated and ready normal session on the Saturday prior to It was this ambition that led the me that Argyle had no chance. to go again.” When asked how he had Sunday’s game. Instructor at the Defence School of After witnessing the league fixture found training facilities in Portsmouth All of the efforts proved worthwhile as Policing and Guarding (DSPG) to contact between the two clubs at Fratton Park for Argyle to use, Adams said “We have Argyle won the second leg 1-0 booking the club and offer them the use of the on 16 Apr, I was confident that Plymouth our contacts.” their place at Wembley on 30 May against Station’s facilities. FS Knight reports ... would overcome their rivals. Following a good night’s sleep AFC Wimbledon and I was one of the In the play-offs, the recovery period Following the final set of league games the players returned to DSPG. Those 35,000 Argyle fans who had travelled to between the two games is massive and it was determined that Plymouth would team members who had seen action London to watch the match. needs to be overcome as quickly as play the away leg first. After receiving an the previous night utilised the station By way of a thank you, a message was possible. To a club like Argyle, who don’t email from the club secretary, outlining swimming pool for a warm-down session, relayed on the stadium scoreboard at have the wealth or resources of a bigger the club requirements, everything swung whilst the unused substitutes were half time by the club wishing me a happy club, they need all the assistance that they into action. put through their paces in a 90 minute 50th birthday and although some weeks RAF Police Race - can get. I felt I was strategically-based For me, the hardest point in the session outside. premature, it meant a lot to me. to assist. preparation was a request for the grass on I watched this session and it was a real I would like to say that this story had a The Spartan Way I initially emailed the club, outlining the pitch to be cut to 30mm. Although I eye-opener to see a professional group of happy ending, but for me and thousands our location, who I was and what we had manage the DSPG football team, I had no players put through their paces. of other Argyle fans, it didn’t - suffering a We’ve had a number of personnel Sands so far - money that will help to offer - fully expecting the offer to be idea that such technology existed! I was really impressed with the attitude 2-0 defeat in the final. n involved in Spartan Races over the last and support other families. To show dismissed out of hand. However, within The players arrived on the morning of of the players who were very interested couple of months, all raising money my support to them and Sands, I was an hour I received a reply from the club the match, after travelling to Hampshire in my career and life in the military in for their chosen charities. determined to put myself through secretary quizzing me on our resources the previous afternoon and carried out a general. Cpl Dee Gilham, GPD Manager at RAF blood, sweat and tears to raise money and most importantly, how much money 45 minute training session. They were especially intrigued by the Wyton tells us the background to her for this incredible charity. it would cost the club. After satisfying As a former player and qualified coach, platoon that where undergoing a five race and what made her sign up ... Although no money in the world will Argyle that the only costs to be borne I realised that it would be beneficial to mile tab that morning. I think they were On Sat 3 Sep 16, I took part in the ever bring Jason back, any raised may Peterborough Spartan Sprint Race just prevent other families experiencing at Elton Hall in order to raise money the loss of a child, or may support for Sands - the stillbirth and neonatal families through their grief as it did for death charity who help support families Amy and Luke. through their time of grief. The Spartan race took place over 7k I chose this particular charity in of mixed terrain with over 20 obstacles memory of a very special boy called thrown in along the way, all made extra Jason who sadly grew his angel wings muddy due to the weather. 37 minutes after being born. Obstacles included walls of various My cousin Amy had given birth to heights, climbing ropes, mud pits him in March, a month earlier than he covered in barbed wire, water obstacles, was due. monkey bars, carrying/dragging various She went through a very dramatic objects over certain distances, tyre birth at home and unfortunately Jason’s flipping, javelin throwing, all finished off breach position starved him of oxygen with a jump over a fire pit. for too long. A t-shirt and medal plus a very well Amy and her husband Luke have deserved beer waited for us at the finish been through a very difficult journey, line! At the time of writing, I’ve managed but have picked themselves up, grown to raise £115 for Sands. n stronger as a couple and through their grief have managed to raise £2466 for

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