SUMMER 2019

AIRFIELD FAMILIES DAY THURSDAY 22ND AUGUST 2019 THE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE OF WATTISHAM FLYING STATION Programme inside

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0170 Wattisham Eagle winter Advert v1.indd 1 19/12/2018 16:52 THE EAGLE CONTENTS

06 I Foreword 22 I 7 Avn Sp Bn REME 31 I Services Welfare (WRVS)

Introduction by Colonel PM Hayhurst, News and updates from 7 Aviation The centre continues to be well used Commander Attack Helicopter Force Support Battalion REME. and a warm welcome is assured to and Wattisham Flying Station. any newly arrived personnel. REME Boxing 26 I Championships 2019 08 I Station Visitors Day 31 I Childcare Centre Hosted by 7 Bn REME who won Wattisham Station does its bit for the best unit champion, best boxer Wattisham Airfield Childcare Centre Community Engagement. and most gallant boxer awards. information and latest news.

10 I 3 Regiment AAC 28 I Military Wives Choir 32 I Station Welfare Departments

News and updates from 3 News and updates from the If you need help, advice or just a chat Regiment Army Air Corps. Wattisham Military Wives Choir. you will find all the contact details in Clare’s Welfare notes. 16 I 4 Regiment AAC 29 I HIVE 36 I MET Office News and updates from HIVE Information and Support. 4 Regiment Army Air Corps. Wattisham MET Office 30 I Heritage Corner Information and statistics. 20 I 80th Anniversary Hottest July Day on record! Families Day The latest news from the View the day's programme and Heritage Group. 37 I Orchard Barn News the many activities available. New courses at Orchard Barn will commence in Sepember.

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From the Editor: Lt Col (Retd) RW SILK MBE Station Staff Officer

Welcome to the Remember wherever you Summer 2019 are serving you can view Aedition of The Eagle, The Eagle on-line at: www. Wattisham’s community theeagleonline.co.uk magazine which is available today, Thursday 22 August Another useful website is 2019, to coincide with a the Suffolk Armed Forces large-scale Families’ Day Community Covenant, held to celebrate the 80th which can be viewed at Anniversary of Wattisham www.suffolkmilitarycovenant. Airfield. This commemorative org.uk edition includes a programme of the day’s events and a Just a reminder that the layout of the area to be used Editorial Deadline for the near to the main hangars next ‘Winter’ edition of known as the ‘Waterfront’. the Eagle is Friday 1st Nov Indeed, it is 10 years ago, July 19, and that articles for 2009, that I launched the first inclusion should be sent to Eagle magazine to coincide the Station Staff Officer with the 70th Anniversary of at the email address the Airfield and this edition below. As this will be is the 40th one - time flies! To the Christmas edition, all give you a flavour of what the contributors are encouraged first Eagle looked like, a copy to meet this deadline or of the original front cover before if you can – thanks. can be viewed on this page.

Editorial: HQ, Wattisham Flying Station, Wattisham Airfield, IPSWICH, Suffolk, IP7 7RA Tel: 01449 728210 01449 728212 Email: [email protected]

Articles should be sent by email or disc to the Editor at [email protected] The views expressed by the contributors to The Eagle magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor; MOD, or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by the kind permission of the Station Commander.

Advertising by: Jayne Bailey - Tel: 01536 334219 Designed by: David McClatchey; Lance Print, [email protected] Published by: Lance Print Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 334226 Email: [email protected] Printed by: Lance Print Ltd - Tel: 01733 390564

THE EAGLE | 5 THE EAGLE SOARS

Foreword by Colonel PM Hayhurst here on 4 September 1939. Since support of our home team - our that day Wattisham has had a amazing families and friends who Commander Attack Helicopter Force and history that we can all be proud endured so much - your continued Wattisham Flying Station of. From that first raid, to the support is very much appreciated. high operational tempo set by the US Army Air Force 479th Fighter At present Wattisham remains This commemorative Eagle Group, to the introduction of at the forefront of current magazine is issued to coincide the first-generation jet fighters, military operations and with celebrations to mark the 80th to the grace of the Hunter, the developments. This year alone Anniversary of Wattisham Airfield howl of the Javelin and the sheer we have deployed to Norway, and 80 years of distinguished brute force of the Lightning and France, Germany, Croatia and military service. The day chosen the Phantom, this station has for the first time, embarked to mark the occasion is Thursday certainly been an interesting on HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH. 22 August 2019, which involves place to serve. Following the We have also just returned a large- scale Families’ Day to departure of the RAF in 1993, from a four-month tour of which all service personnel, the Army Air Corps, supported Estonia contributing to the civilian employees and families by the REME, arrived with Lynx NATO deterrence mission in are welcome. The day will involve and Gazelle battlefield helicopters the Baltic States and Poland. aving only just arrived flying displays and numerous as part of 24 Airmobile Brigade Next year will see no let-up in back at Wattisham after other activities to thank the and were immediately committed our commitments but will also serving in the Ministry of workforce and their families to operations in the Balkans. see us preparing for the arrival H of a new and even more capable Defence, as the new Commander for their continuing hard work In 2003, units from Wattisham of the Attack Helicopter Force and commitment; for more played a leading role in the Iraq fleet of Apache ‘Echo’ models. and Wattisham Flying Station, I detail please have a look at the War, which saw the start of a So, we will be as busy as we have am constantly reminded of how programme and layout contained six year commitment to that ever have been and I hope that privileged I am to command such in this magazine. campaign. Whilst still committed we can continue to rely on your an impressive organisation, which to operations in Iraq and Bosnia, unswerving support in the busy is a world class force, envied by This special year for Wattisham 3 and 4 Regt AAC converted to years ahead. many. My family and I are delighted marks the 80th Anniversary of the Apache Attack Helicopter in to find ourselves ‘home again’, and Wattisham as a Flying Station. 2007 and deployed to Afghanistan For those who were able to we are looking forward to making The original decision was taken in 2009. Wattisham maintained attend the Families’ Day, thank the most of the opportunities on by the RAF in 1937 that the area a Squadron of Apaches you all for coming and I hope offer and the many challenges just to the east of the village permanently in Afghanistan you have an enjoyable and ahead. My predecessor, Colonel of Wattisham was to be a new until the end of the deployment relaxing day. Finally, for the Chris Bisset, was committed to Airfield and 11 acres of land was in 2016. In 2011, 656 Sqn also whole Force, I hope that by the improving the Station and he purchased from a Mr W Hunt and took part in operations in Libya time you read this you have invested considerable energy in construction began. The station operating from HMS OCEAN for managed some well deserved driving through numerous projects was completed and operational the very first time. and uninterrupted leave at some during his tenure. I am excited on 6 April 1939 and home to point over the summer period to build on that foundation and 83rd Wing of No2 Group Bomber Throughout Wattisham’s and return refreshed to tackle to focus on delivering further Command. Within months incredible history, Suffolk the challenges ahead. enhancements for all of us who live Wattisham was in action, with became our home. None of what and work at Wattisham. the first British bombing raids of was achieved would have been World War Two launched from possible without the incredible

THE EAGLE | 6 To advertise in the next issue of this publication please contact Jayne

Tel: 01536 334219

Email: [email protected] ANNUAL VISITORS DAY

WATTISHAM STATION ANNUAL VISITORS DAY Nearly 800 visitors arrived at Wattisham Flying Station for our Annual Visitors Day held during May 2019. An event where we host a wide range of visitors, from schools, colleges, veteran associations, beavers/ scouts to individuals who have an interest in what we do in our military life.

THE EAGLE | 8 ANNUAL VISITORS DAY

rom our show stopping manner of items and discussed both Apache and Heritage aircraft their culture and life within the F to small arms, survival British Army with our guests. Also, equipment, communication stands, on show were our Welfare team, our static military vehicles and defence Chaplains, SSAFA, Suffolk Fire and fire service. For the first time, we also Rescue and an opportunity to try out showcased how we feed our soldiers on our new resuscitation dummies. when away from base and how we Finally, our refreshment stand keep them fit and healthy when on (pictured above with Claire, Sarah Exercise or Tour. Also, for the first and Lynda) which proved very busy. time, a self-defence lesson was given by our fully qualified instructor, A massive thank you to all those who which proved to be very popular. took the time to host their stands Trying to show as wide a range as and for our visitors who showed such possible of life at Wattisham saw our an interest in our life at Wattisham first cultural stand at Visitors Day. A Flying Station. Hope to see you again group of our Fijian soldiers provided next time!! fabulous music, costumes and all

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Commanding Officer: Lt Col N English AAC Second in Command: Maj E McGilp AAC Adjutant: Capt E Gorwood AAC Regimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) P Dockrell Operation CABRIT

Amari Airfield. But it’s not only learning new skills to boot. the Aircrew that are making Looking forward into the third the most of the opportunities quarter of 2019 will firstly bring this deployment brings; the a well-earned period of summer Groundcrew, Signallers and leave for all to enjoy, followed REME soldiers have also been by the celebration of Wattisham working outside their normal Airfield celebrating its 80th remit. They have recently Anniversary in the form of a The CO been conducting ECCA from Families day on Thursday 22 Aug an island off the coast of 19, an event at which I hope et me start by introducing Estonia, the highlight of which to see many of the extended 3 myself as the new I understand was the inflatable Regiment family coming along to. L Regimental Sergeant rib used to get out to the It will be a fantastic opportunity Major of 3 Regiment AAC, WO1 island, (although perhaps not for the AH Force and 3 Regiment Paul Dockrell. I have served in for the one REME soldier who to thank the soldiers, officers and the Army Air Corps for twenty found himself treading water all their families for the continued years and have been fortunate having fallen out of the boat, support in order to deliver Attack enough to serve in almost don’t worry they did return to Aviation as and where it is needed every major unit of the AAC, pick him up). All this activity anywhere around the globe. as well as several of the smaller is taking place whilst HQ Sqn Squadrons and Flights. It is my have deployed for LFTT ranges As ever everything we as a privilege to have been assigned in Sennelager Germany, which Regiment do is only possible this role, taking over from WO1 has been described to me by due to the selfless commitment Good who has now moved one of the soldiers as the best of all of you, so I thank you all down to Middle Wallop to take week he’s had in the Army; for the hard work to date and up post as the Army Air Corps he’s either easily pleased or we ask for your continued support Command Sergeant Major. are getting something right during the coming months. Prior to my current post I had by getting our soldiers out served the Regiment as the of Wattisham to experience WO1 (RSM) P Dockrell RQMS (A) for nearly a year new things in new places and and before that I served within 4 Regiment as 664 Sqn SSM. Having now worked in both AAC Regiments within the AH Force, I hope I bring with me experience from differing vantage points within the Force which I will put to positive effect within 3 Regiment. As I take up post we have soldiers and officers deployed across the breadth of Europe operating the aircraft and supporting it in every way on the ground. I was lucky enough to visit 662 Sqn in Estonia whilst they were providing support to Op CABRIT at the beginning of July. Their deployment, much like 663 Sqn before them, has seen them flying missions through multiple countries such as Lithuania and WO1 (RSM) P Dockrell Latvia from their home base of

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Apache Attack Helicopters Operation CABRIT Deploy to Estonia

From April until the end of July, 3 Regiment have The Regiment deployed five aircraft and close to been deployed on operations in Estonia as part 300 soldiers to Estonia, supported military exercises of NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence Mission in in Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia – Estonia and the Baltic States with a clear mission including live firing, generated more than 850 flying to enhance Euro-Atlantic Security, to deter our hours, and generated new stories for its soldiers. adversaries and to reassure our Allies. A few of those stories have been shared below.

DEPLOYING ACROSS EUROPE without incident before we entered departed Siauliai (Lithuania) and Polish heritage and how important In order to sustain the five aircraft Poland, our most notable stop-over. we hit the road for the final stretch it is to keep those ties with the deployment to Estonia, two vehicle 663 Sqn has Polish heritage having which took us through Latvia and past. The trip was also an excellent chase parties left Wattisham on been a Polish Air Force Squadron into Amari Airbase in Estonia. opportunity for the REME, RAF and Sunday 14th of April and headed in World War 2; those close ties AAC elements to get to know each for the port of Dover. After a long remain central to the Squadron’s The drive had been extremely long other a little better and encourage wait for the ferry the crossing itself heritage and are celebrated every but had been relatively smooth and team bonding and integration ahead was short and then we were on to year at the Annual Polish Lunch stress-free. The highlight of the trip of the deployment. the continent ready to head east. in Hammersmith. We also had a undoubtedly was the War Memorial The first overnight stopover was brief stop in Warsaw to visit a war in Poland; the visit there had been LCpl Bradley 663 Sqn ES Chievres, a small town just over memorial called Poleglym Lotnikom, educational and connected us to our the Belgian border. We decided to this memorial is dedicated to go for a meal in the local area, but the Airmen who lost their lives this proved more difficult than we during WWII whilst under British had anticipated; our first issue was Command. Whilst visiting the finding enough seats in a restaurant, memorial we received a brief from the next issue was ordering food, Captain Price on the Squadron’s again this became a challenge, Polish history and the links we share mainly due to the language barrier with the country and its people and partly due to so many people before the aircraft then conducted a ordering food at the same time. I flypast over the memorial. don’t think this particular restaurant had encountered this before, but At the end of the week and after 5 before too long we were all fed and days of driving, we embarked on the watered and headed off for a good final leg of our journey. The aircraft night’s sleep after a long first day.

Miles and miles lay ahead of us, nearly 1600 to be exact. France, Belgium and Germany went by

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A SIGNALLER’S VIEW The main exercise 663 Sqn supported whilst on Op CABRIT was Exercise SPRING STORM, a large- scale annual exercise run by the Estonian Defence Force (EDF) that simulates an invasion of Estonia from the East. During the exercise the Squadron deployed FARPs (Forward Arming and Refuelling Points) to various locations across Estonia. This gave our groundcrew and signallers an opportunity to get out and see more of Estonia. FARPs were established in Tapa and Johvi initially, allowing them to be away from the battle for much less time. During the exercise, enemy The tour then took us west into the VIEW FROM THE GROUNDCREW and visits by the Estonian Prime forces (played as a live enemy by Blue Hills, this was an area that saw For the majority of the GSF, Op Minister, AHF Commander with 2nd Estonian Brigade) pushed heavy fighting between German CABRIT it was their first ever 3 Regt CO. This culminated in the East into Estonia and occupied the and Russian forces due to its tactical overseas operation. The deployment Amari Air Show, celebrating 100 northern town of Johvi. The initial location. We also visited another allowed the GSF to enhance their years of the Estonian Air Force. FARP was relocated to the West memorial to fallen German SS in the green and groundcrew skills, Equally, LCpl Southall raised over to allow the aircraft to continue to Blue Hills as well as the old trench producing tactical two-point 375 euros for a local orphanage by support before a counter-attack was system that was used during the FARPs in a more challenging foregoing all carbs for the entirety of launched to defeat the enemy forces. fighting. The second day of the tour environment and with various the deployment. All of these events was centred around the capital, Tallin, aircraft types. From a JNCO point helped develop relations with the My personal highlight from Estonia and included a visit to the national of view, this was valuable training Estonian Population. was the two-day battlefield study memorial dedicated to all those who because it offered the most realistic that walked us through the history fought in the Battle of Tallin during operational scenarios. Visiting During our time in Estonia the of conflict that Estonia has been part WW2 before we spent some time aircrew commented that these were squadron organised a variety of of; most notably this covered both exploring the city. the best FARPs they had seen in events and days out which helped the First World War and the Second their military careers. Concurrently build team cohesion. Highlights for World War. The first day of the tour Overall this was a good experience for members of the GSF worked on the groundcrew were BBQ Volleyball took us to Narva which is on Estonia’s me to gain a far better understanding personal development courses such with X-Factor, a visit to top-flight eastern border with Russia. Here of Estonia and its history. It was clear as the Team medics course. Nomme Kaliju F.C. with a half-time we learned about the geographical that Estonia had seen a vast amount penalty shoot-out, and our own importance of the area as well as the of conflict and it is easy to see why Whilst deployed, the Sqn were tasked comprehensive triumph against the conflicts that had occurred; we visited there is still a concern that history with a number of high-profile social RAF football team over three legs. some of the military cemeteries and may repeat itself. It certainly helped events: a visit to the embassy, Armed All NCOs were also invited to a mess the memorials to both Russian and me to understand more fully our own Forces day, Apache’s presence at meal to show appreciation for the German troops. It was particularly mission in Estonia. Tallinn dock alongside HMS Kent, hard work put into making it such a poignant to see the Russian flag Airtrooper Oakley, 663 Sqn G6 successful exercise. flying in the fort less than 100 metres away from us across the river Narva.

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This deployment collection of red was a well-rounded forces, cast AH experience for all as red attack EXERCISE members of the aviation and GSF. It provided thus provided essential training to NATO ground develop skills which forces an arena STALLIONS we don’t often in which to test and pushed train against us to maximum this threat. operational output. Simultaneously, CHARGE AND LCpl Calladine 662 flying ‘red’ Sqn groundcrew aircraft against 662 squadron’s A PILOT’S PERSPECTIVE tactical FARP tested it against this TALON SKUT Op CABRIT was heralded as the threat and demonstrated just how focal event in 3 Regiment’s year well they had concealed it. July 2019 saw HQ Squadron deploy to and it delivered a rich blend of Many in 662 Squadron remember Sennelager, Germany for Ex STALLIONS training opportunity and cultural the squadron’s maritime days CHARGE, immediately followed by Ex discovery. 663 Squadron led the wistfully, so it was with excitement charge, contributing valiantly to that they took on JEF(M), AHF’s TALON SKUT in support of 662 Squadron. NATO’s enhanced Force Presence contribution to 3 Commando The 18-hour road journey for the in an area known to few of them. Brigade’s amphibious exercise on advanced party saw the majority of the The deployment exposed the the West Coast of the Baltic states. green fleet vehicles arrive safely with the Regiment’s aircrew to several Capt Marshall was despatched to environments and roles outside of HMS Albion as a Brigade LO where main body arriving only a few days later. their comfort zone and was hugely he used the time to full effect, rewarding for it. ensuring attack aviation featured uly 2019 saw HQ After completing static shooting The Apache is steadily proving centrally in the Brigade’s thinking Squadron deploy to practices, the range quickly itself an important force multiplier and execution. J Sennelager, Germany became a lot more interesting in the urban environment. Ex More than these training for Ex STALLIONS CHARGE, and action packed with members URBAN GRENADIER, supporting opportunities, the deployment immediately followed by Ex of the squadron having to switch the KRH Battlegroup, provided allowed us to use the platform in TALON SKUT in support of from only focussing on one static an opportunity to test just a way few of us have, focussing 662 Squadron. The 18-hour target, to having to track and that. With ground manoeuvre less on kinetic effect and rather forces’ situational awareness at a on reassurance and deterrence. premium, 663 Squadron proved Providing static aircraft displays – the Apache’s ability to augment from a small village’s Victory Day command and control and ISTAR parade to a leg of the World Rally capabilities, as well as provide more Championship - was invariably traditional fires. Equally, the attack rewarding. For many, seeing aviation threat posed by potential the aircraft in the flesh brought adversaries is increasingly apparent. home the UK’s willingness to Ex IRON WOLF, in South East substantiating its commitment to Lithuania, pitting the Lithuanian NATO’s eastern members. Iron Wolf brigade against a Capt Hunt, 662 Sqn aircrew road journey for the advanced fire upon moving targets from party saw the majority of the multiple firing positions. This green fleet vehicles arrive proved to be difficult for some safely with the main body people having never been faced arriving only a few days later. with the concept of a moving target, however all thrived on The exercise officially kicked off the opportunity to do well and to with a 5-day fun-filled live fire hit as many targets as possible, training package. The package was with many competitions for a chance to get members of the who can hit most targets. Squadron from across all roles to learn and practice shoots that most Live Fire and Movement is personnel had never done before. something that only a handful of

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the squadron have experienced members filtering into the arming rounds, and refuelling operations were able to leave camp and go before so the concept and practice teams of 662 Squadron, and the the support group was actively and take in the local cultures, of advancing on the enemy as rest of HQ personnel acting in working in the background, and explore what Germany a pair suddenly became very support in the background. ensuring the vehicles were has to offer. Alongside this the real when you’ve got your mate serviceable for use on the FARP Squadron deployed for a day to and ensuring Bergen Belsen. Bergen Belsen the aviation was originally established as a fuel was at POW camp, however parts of a constant it became a Nazi concentration supply. camp in 1943. The visit to Bergen Between HQ Belsen allowed the Squadron to and 662 we take in some of the history of successfully Germany and to learn about what managed to happened there many years ago. load and fire 11,880 30mm HQ Squadron ends the exercise rounds over with 10 days in Bavaria on the week. Adventure Training consisting of hill walking, mountain biking, Command kayaking and climbing. This last Troop phase of the exercise will come beside you and you are both 662 Squadron with the utilisation personnel didn’t go unnoticed as a well-deserved treat before firing live rounds down the range. of HQ Squadron members swiftly either with their concurrent returning to the UK early August Communication in this situation got to work to set up the FARP activities taking place. Setting up with everyone looking forward is absolute key and demonstrates and begin routine for both day a training area in a classroom on to some well-deserved leave. a massive test of the courage and and night flying serials. The camp saw the JNCOs train the trust that you have in each other AH package allowed the HQ signals personnel on the BCIP 5.6 LCpl Wilcock and yourself. HQ squadron didn’t groundcrew element to get hands uplift, which is key to their roles Headquarter Squadron fail to impress on this section on with the aircraft, renewing as communications specialists. 3 Regiment AAC of the package with 11 people currency in their roles as Aviation gaining a highly competent Groundcrew Specialists. It’s safe to say that this exercise assessment result. The final day of certainly wasn’t all work and the package saw the junior leaders Whilst the groundcrew members no play. The Squadron went of the squadron shine and show were fully supporting 662 into stand down periods over the DS just what they are capable Squadron in the upload of 30mm the weekends where personnel of in a section defensive shoot. Each junior leader took it in turns to command the section’s fire power onto the enemy targets, ensuring fire control orders were executed to a high standard and the rate of fire was managed appropriately. This was the perfect opportunity for the junior leaders amongst the squadron to show their capabilities as section commanders and to take on vital points for improving their leadership roles within this setting.

The closing down of the live fire range certainly didn’t signal the end of the exercise for HQ Squadron. With the arrival of 662 Squadron and the beginning of Ex TALON SKUT, HQ Squadron immediately began to support them with 6

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THE EAGLE | 15 4 REGIMENT ARMY AIR CORPS

Commanding Officer: Lt Col A Mitchell AAC (wef Sep 19) Second-in-Command: Maj R Simcock AAC Adjutant: Capt C Creighton AAC Regimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) G Radcliffe

eflecting on the last few of the maritime months, on occasions, I capability and R struggle to explain where have enjoyed the time has gone. In another significant packed period of activity, 4 Regt success with has seen large elements of the HMS QNLZ. Regt deploy to Croatia on Ex Following a SWIFT RESPONSE, embark on huge amount of HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH for the technical staff first time and conduct a range of work to get the adventure training activities. Apache onto the QNLZ in the first (AHDT) which once again has The Regt deployed on Ex SWIFT place, 656 Sqn supported deck been supervised and managed RESPONSE as JHC's ATF1 handling trials in June, before by 4 Regt has made a welcome as part of the 16X led Allied embarking the Sqn in July. This return to the summer display Combined Joint Expeditionary was a short notice opportunity circuit following a break last Force (ACJEF), in support of a due to a change in the ships year. Supported by engineers programme, but from 7 Bn and aircraft from 3 one that enabled Regt, the AHDT has displayed very valuable the very best characteristics of training ahead of Army Aviation at the main air further periods shows this season, displaying in of embarkation front of thousands of members in the Autumn. of the public with its unique flying and pyrotechnic display. It has not just been about At the end of July Lt Col Ball and support to his family moved on, we wish major exercises them all well, in particular for his and capability forthcoming tour in Kabul. In much larger, US-led multinational generation, soldiers and September the Regt will welcome exercise. The exercise represented officers from across the Sqns Lt Col Andrew Mitchell and his months of planning effort, recces have participated in a range of family as the new Commanding and coordination across a range sports and adventurous training Officer, and the Regt will look of JHC and French organisations. activities, from dingy racing, forward to the challenges The result was that the ATF1 wakeboarding and orienteering that the Autumn will bring. successfully deployed with circa with the AAC to mountain biking 650 people, 200 vehicles and 15 and climbing in Chamonix Maj Richard Simcock, helicopters, including a French and Italy. Concurrently, the 2IC 4 Regt AAC. Tigers, CH-47s, AH from 664 Attack Helicopter Display Team Sqn and WILDCAT RH. The deployment involved trains, ferries and a very significant road move through Europe in searing heat and once in Croatia, all elements of the organisation were tested in complex terrain, sweltering European temperatures and in a demanding exercise construct against a live enemy.

At the same time, 656 Sqn Gp have been focused on the re-generation

THE EAGLE | 16 4 REGIMENT ARMY AIR CORPS Ex PATHERS PURSUIT This June, on the 75th Anniversary of the D-Day landings, 653 Sqn embarked on a battlefield study to Normandy.

earning of the many heroic Normandy for 13 years. He took and Buckinghamshire Light The Squadron also paid their endeavours that occurred time out of his busy schedule Infantry. The mission included an respects to the fallen at Ranville L during the invasion in the under the invitation of 653 and excellent display of airmanship Cemetery where many of the very locations they happened gave we could not have asked for a from the Glider Pilot Regiment casualties of the 6th Airborne a new depth and gravitas to the better guide. and is considered the “most Division are buried. While at the achievements of these “ordinary” outstanding flying achievement Cemetery, we had the pleasure of people that took part. As it was the Our first visit was to two vital of the war”. The Squadron learnt meeting Major Kenneth Mayhew, 75th Anniversary, the Squadron bridges over the Caen Canal and that with poor weather at night who was a Company Commander in not only learned about the history River Orne, the objectives of the and only a handkerchief map the Suffolk Regiment. He is one of of the AAC, they also had the 2nd Battalion of the Oxfordshire and stop clock, all but one of the only four living Knights of the very privilege to meet some veterans six gliders landed right on these exclusive Military William Order, and take part in ceremonies to objectives within two minutes. the Netherlands highest honour, for commemorate the day. Due to the success of these his actions on Sword Beach. landings the bridges were taken Our tour was organised by the with relative ease with very few After visiting some of the Squadron 2IC Lt Nick Stubbin, casualties. They are now famously battlefield sites, the Squadron and involved more than 60 known as Pegasus Bridge and took part in the ceremonies personnel and it was a great way Horsa Bridge in honour of the that were occurring in various for the new CTR Course to be success of the operation, and places around Normandy. First introduced to the Squadron. Our there is a museum on location of which was a memorial service guide was Adam Williams who with a section of the Horsa glider. with the Rifles and veterans to spent 24 years in the AAC ending commemorate the landings at up as an Aviation Standards Examiner. He now lives in Dubai flying helicopters for the Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, however he has been leading battlefield tours in

THE EAGLE | 17 4 REGIMENT ARMY AIR CORPS

Pegasus Bridge. The ceremony had hidden from the Germans took place in the location where in their back garden and gave it the three gliders landed that out to the soldiers. This has now evening and was witnessed by become a tradition for members many of the visitors that were of the Rifles and the AAC to there for the D-Day events. march across the bridge on the The Squadron was also lucky to evening of the 5th June to receive witness the drop of hundreds of a champagne reception to show airborne troops on DZ K from 35 her appreciation for what our Dakotas that lifted from Duxford, predecessors did that day. including two 95-year-olds (Cafe Gondree next to Pegasus veterans who had dropped at that Bridge - below) very location 75 years previously. However, the main event for that On the 6th June 653 Sqn took day was back at Pegasus Bridge, part in the large 16 Brigade led where the Squadron, alongside memorial service at Ranville Colonel Bryant and Brigadier Cemetery. It involved a large Keating, helped Madame Gondrée amount of the Brigade, veterans, fire from an Air Observation Post. The Battlefield study was both host the veterans in her garden. locals as well as a Shetland pony They were attached to 653 AOP moving and inspiring and 653 called Pegasus, the Parachute Sqn RAF flying Austers out of Sqn felt privileged to represent Madame Gondrée and her family Regiment mascot which led the Old Sarum in Wiltshire. In the the AAC on the 75th Anniversary have owned a cafe next to Pegasus parade. It was a moving tribute days following D-Day, the main of the landings. Special thanks go Bridge for generations. She was and it was moving to see the advance of the Allies was Caen. to our knowledgeable tour guide just a child when the Ox and amount of people who came out Caen was supposed to be taken Adam for bringing the stories of Bucks, along with the Glider Pilot to pay their respects to the fallen. on D-Day, however it was taken D-Day alive. Learning about the Regiment, took the Bridge. As in late July. It was this advance lineage of the AAC and the vital role she tells the story of that night, The Squadron then paid their Captain Watkinson was involved aviation plays on the battlefield, it she remembers her father looking personal respects to a member in, flying ahead of the advance is clear to see that even though the out of the window to see what the of what was then 653 AOP Sqn, to call in artillery on German technology involved has changed, commotion was. The Gondrées who is buried at Banneville- positions. Unfortunately Captain many of its roles haven’t, and the were part of the French resistance La-Campagne War Cemetery. Watkinson was killed by a 25 lessons learnt then can only help us and passed information about Captain Kenneth Watkinson was pound shell that burst beside in the future. the defence of the bridge to the a 25 year old Officer in the Royal his aircraft. (Photo of Kenneth Allies. When the British liberated Artillery, who was selected with Watkinson - ringed) the bridge, her father dug up 93 many other Artillery Officers to bottles of Champagne that he train as a pilot in order to direct

THE EAGLE | 18 4 REGIMENT ARMY AIR CORPS

Nijmegen Army Air Corps Ladies March Qualification Success

On the 27 and 28 May 19 the After completing the march, it Army Air Corps (AAC) Ladies is tradition to march onto the Nijmegen team took part in the parade square and be greeted by Nijmegen two-day qualifying dignitaries. As we proudly came event, held at RAF Cosford. We to a halt on the final day, it was walked a total distance of 80km to announced that we had won the give us an insight into the annual best Army team. We were all four-day Nijmegen March which overwhelmed by the achievement. takes place in July. The team was comprised of female members We very much look forward to from all units of the AAC. the main event, having a better knowledge of what to expect and The Nijmegen Marches in the the challenges we face. We hope Netherlands are an annual to build on our success and bring event where thousands of back silverware once again and civilian and military teams make the AAC proud. join to walk 1600km through the countryside and villages Image with shield - Airtroopers of Nijmegen. The aim is to Feldman and Boon, 4 Regt AAC. promote fitness, team building, and enjoyment of sport and they have been running since 1916.

Starting the walk in the early hours of the morning was a challenge for us all, however, the adrenalin and excitement of all the teams together helped us to make a great start. Our tactics were to move slow and steady, but as the march began we just couldn’t help ourselves. Our pace stayed comfortable, but swift and we overtook numerous other teams and short water breaks helped us to maintain momentum. Our tactics progressed to include unlimited Shania Twain songs and other renditions, ensuring we didn’t go unnoticed. High morale and constant supply of Haribo kept us going and we encouraged other teams who may have been struggling, especially cadet teams.

THE EAGLE | 19 FAMILIES DAY 80th Anniversary of Wattisham Airfield

Families Day Archery Club

Rally for Drag Heroes Race Programme Supercars Team of Events Times ACTIVITY 1200 hrs (12 pm)​ Military Gates open​ – access via Main Gate. Vehicles 1230​ hrs (12:30 pm) Entertainments, catering and the Flying Display (12+ display acts) start​ 1330-1430 hrs (1:30 - 2:30 pm) RAF Swing Band “Shades of Blue” feat. Fox, Wiggle & Sass in the Vintage Village Flying Displays will run throughout the 1445-1515 hrs (2:45 - 3:15 pm) afternoon and include: Fox, Wiggle & Sass solo set in the Vintage Village BBMF Display (Avro The Blades Aerobatic 1430-1630 hrs (2:30 - 4:30 pm) Lancaster PA474, Display Team Children’s entertainer, face painting and glitter Supermarine Spitfire, Chinook Display Team painting in the Modern Entertainments area Hawker Hurricane) Tucano display The Duxford Yak 3 & T6 Harvard 1530-1630 hrs (3:30 - 4:30 pm) Warbirds (P-51 displays RAF Swing Band “Shades of Blue” in the Mustang, Supermarine Attack Helicopter Vintage Village Spitfire, P-47 Display Team Thunderbolt and Me- Eurofighter Typhoon 1630-1715 hrs (4:30 - 5:15 pm) 109 Bouchon) fly through Fox, Wiggle & Sass solo set and SSAFA tea Bristol Blenheim C-130 Hercules fly dance in the Vintage Village Display through 1715 hrs (5:15 pm) Plus many other static aircraft attractions, Attack Helicopter Display Team with including a USAF CV-22 Osprey, Boeing Stearman, pyrotechnics (flying display finale)​ Scout and Sioux of the Historic Aircraft Flight, Austers, a Chipmunk and many more! 1830​ hrs (6:30 pm) Entertainments cease​ Meanwhile, entertainment will include the 1940s ‘Vintage Village’ with WW2 vehicles, Living History, A pre-paid lunch menu will be provided by military the Station Museum and a Tea Dance hosted by chefs plus a range of gourmet desserts, whipped ice SSAFA with a live a Capella Band, “Fox, Wiggle and creams and coffee on sale throughout the day. Sass” and the RAF Shades of Blue, by kind permission of the Air Force Board of the Defence Council. On the modern side, a flight simulator, fairground attractions and games, children’s entertainer, the Archery Club and Rally for Heroes supercars.

THE EAGLE | 20 SUMMER 2019 ACH P E A ST U ER A A A E P A H STE C A U R A A U R S T E STE A U R A A R U E O S T IPM N A A H K ···· R RMY U E C A S T C NHE K E IM H C L N B The IP O RV8s PR G G M S EY B · · O L G B x 8 IDI N L M E N H EI BLADES CANO O O U ···· S E Y T P R PITFIRE O S T IN O T H K O U O C IN O C N H K A S S C P E C ···· K R AVION H C ITFI N IN O O C UCHO H C K O N I O B N O N N NTO HAAF A M A N H B VI O P ···· O B N U O P C H P UNTER H M H STAN A N TO U G M H H ARMA E N M U R T M N TE S G Fairground U N S STA T S N ER E A ND BO A U and Games R M L

T H T T H T L RVAR U T D Face O A N H Painting Flight DERB H H A D Clubs & Simulator RVA R Asscociations Memorabilia Living History Heritage Fox, Wiggle & Group Sass (vocals) Merch 1940's RAF Swing Vehicles SSAFA Tea Band Dance

Please Note - Important Information About Your Safety Whilst Attending the Families Day on the Airfield

Your safety is our first priority, and the Events Team and on-duty personnel are here to ensure that things run smoothly. If you need any assistance, or if you observe anything that poses a risk to the safe running of the Event, please inform one the military personnel in uniform. We are here to help and can direct you as required. The St John Ambulance First Aid point is located centrally on the Waterfront next to the Food Court. The Event Operations Centre is behind the Food Court at the top of the spiral staircase and will be manned throughout the day.

In the unlikely event of an accident or security incident, please remain calm and follow the instructions given by the on-duty personnel. Thank you and have a great day.

Major Lillie Mead – Event Organiser.

THE EAGLE | 21 7 AVIATION SUPPORT BATTALION REME

Commanding Officer: Lt Col R James REME Second in Command: Maj A Turnbull REME Adjutant: Capt M Peak REME 7 Aviation Support Regimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) M Edgeworth

title of REME Corps doctrine while gaining Boxing Champions. an insight into tactical Battalion REME Best and Most and strategic planning Gallant boxers were considerations. All this with both awarded to the beautiful backdrop of our fighters, LCpls Crete and about 20 litres Shah and Hess of sunblock applied. respectively. The Despite a frantic calendar event, which hosted of exercises and operational Maj Gen Simon activity, adventurous Hamilton CBE, training has been achieved Director Support in Spain and Bavaria, the (Army), was truly Mariner Trophy sporting spectacular and competition has seen 71 described as the Company secure a lead most professionally following football and delivered boxing swimming contests and the event in years by WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess have The CO the external judges proved that cricket is no and medical staff. longer an Officer sport. nce again, the last few An exceptional effort by Preparations are now months have passed the fighters and supporting underway to deploy to the Oin the blink of an eye staff and a real example USA to deliver Exercise and, while I can hardly believe of teamwork from all cap CRIMSON EAGLE and it is almost a year since I took badges and sub-units. scoping has begun for a command, I am getting used The AHF team, led by Battalion level deployment to being left in awe of the the Battalion, competed to Europe next year. With achievements of the Battalion. again in the RN Field this, Christmas and our In addition to maintaining Gun Competition at HMS 25th Anniversary next year, our many levels of operational Collingwood. The event, there is no sign of the pace readiness, we have enabled which began in 1907, has slowing but I know we will training exercises and had a REME team from continue to produce first- operational commitments Wattisham competing every rate results, first time, every worldwide with REME and year since 2002, in which time. As ever, we could not RLC deployments in the time we have won five times achieve such success without Mediterranean, Northern and hold the record for the the support of our families, and Eastern Europe and the fastest time. This year saw who are as much part of the UK. There have also been our fifth win, making history Battalion family as those in huge achievements on the with a joint first place uniform. I hope to see you sporting and adventurous with HMNB Portsmouth; all at the Station Families training front and the social with timings recorded to Day and hope you will all calendar has been as full as 1/100th of a second, it is find some time to enjoy a I have ever seen at a unit. clear to see how hard the well-earned summer break. The last time I put pen to fight was for the win. paper, preparations were Exercise MERCURY EAGLE underway for us to host saw a small team deploy to the REME Corps Boxing Crete to study the Allied Championships. Despite most action against the Axis of our team never having invasion of the island in fought before and with no May 1940. It was a valuable established training facility in opportunity to understand Wattisham, we won 4 of our 6 the realities of conflict and bouts and claimed the coveted the relevance of current

THE EAGLE | 22 7 AVIATION SUPPORT BATTALION REME

7 Aviation Support Battalion REME 71 Coy predominantly worked with 4 Ex SWIFT RESPONSE AAC providing the second line Capt Gwynn-Cousins equipment support required Ex SWIFT RESPONSE 19 saw throughout the exercise and 7 Bn deploy numerous trades deployed forward to help man the in support of a multinational Forward Arming and Refuelling overseas deployment to Croatia Point in the later stages of the Wertach, which is a small town 132 Sqn via land, sea and air. The overall exercise. Overall everyone came in the Oberallgau district of the RLC Open Day – goal of the exercise was part away with a good experience German Alps. The main aim of Sgt Musicha of a larger American 82nd and many a story to tell. this Exercise was to introduce As the only Aviation Supply Airborne Divisional strategy members of 72 Avn Coy to Squadron within the British to prove interoperability and 72 Coy challenging adventurous training Army, 132 Aviation Supply readiness between nations. 71 Op CABRIT activities over eight days and Squadron plays a key role within Coy deployed with the aim of A Forward Repair Team+ from to enhance team cohesion. the Attack Helicopter Force maintaining the 5 deployed 72 Coy deployed to Estonia as After a fun filled but challenging (AHF) by providing Aviation Apaches supporting 3rd Battalion, part of Op CABRIT in June. They 8 days, 72 Avn Coy began the Equipment Support (Materiel) Parachute Regiment, whilst were there to conduct Failsafe drive back to Wattisham Airfield. to the Force. Despite its unique they assaulted and captured an Collar Modifications on 4 of the 5 The exercise allowed personnel nature and running the largest airport forward of our location. aircraft in theatre. While this was to develop their courage and materiel account in the army, the One of the validating aspects their primary task, the flexibility team cohesion during the Sqn appears to hardly feature in was our ability to operate with of Bn technicians meant that controlled exposure to risk. the mainstream supply world. friendly nations as well as they could support 3AAC during Taking advantage of a corporate other UK elements. the Relief in Place at the start of OC 72 Coy Enduro- branding and media drive that is Members of the the deployment by conducting Maj Corsie currently underway at 7 Aviation Bn enjoyed the level 2 and 3 servicing. This On Wednesday 27th March, Support Battalion REME, the unit opportunity to was an excellent opportunity Maj Corsie competed in the first is constantly looking for new ways work with and meet for several Coy personnel to round of the Royal Engineers to raise awareness of its’ role. The French soldiers who conduct their job while deployed Spring Enduro season at the RLC Corps Open Day 2019 that were utilising the and away from Wattisham. The Royal Engineers Training Area took place on the 6 July 19 at the TIGER platform experience was well enjoyed on Perham Down near Tidworth. Duke of Gloucester Barracks in during the exercise. by all that deployed, and the The format was sprint Enduro, South Cerney, home of 29 Regt 71 Coy personnel lessons learned have been well where riders complete timed laps RLC and the Joint Air Mounting applied to those back in camp. against the clock making for some Centre, proved the perfect frenetic riding and an exciting opportunity for the Squadron Ex DRAGONS DANCE- spectacle. In his 20th season at to showcase its exclusive LCpl Goodyear Corps level representing Army capabilities, and that of the Bn, On the 14 May 19, 30 personnel Aviation, Maj Corsie secured to the wider RLC and public. from 72 Aviation Company began victory in the Veteran Class. The concept was simple. the long drive to Germany to Deploy an Apache, a team of conduct a level 3 multi-activity Logisticians, Engineers and Adventure Training exercise. Technicians with a Deployable The exercise was conducted in Spares Pack (DSP) and Support

THE EAGLE | 23 7 AVIATION SUPPORT BATTALION REME

Holden, along with LCpl Multinational Richardson (VM) crewed the Aircraft Recovery SVRs on the long drive to Training Cornwall from Wattisham On Sun 23 June 2 (approx. 350 miles). SVRs from 7Bn REME deployed to Training began Monday the Multinational morning with the compulsory Aircraft Recovery Safety briefings, then setting Training, being held up the scenarios for the teams in RAF St Mawgan work through. There were in Cornwall. representatives from Lithuania, Due to the Aviation role Netherlands, France, Belgium, of the Battalion, the Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Vehicles including an SV(R) attacked the 10 miler, finishing Recovery mechanics Germany, Luxembourg and Spain. to the open day and showcase in 1:51:08 and securing 7th at 7 Bn have a good relationship They would be put into teams their collective capabilities. A place overall out of 100 teams. with the RAF teams and regularly and go through all the stands, team of 12 from the Bn which Sgt Gono, Cpl Rupasinghe, LCpl attend JARTS training, enhancing overcoming the challenges and included personnel from 132 Beever and LCpl Mofford smashed their capabilities where possible. language barriers to achieve Sqn, 72 Coy and a Recovery the 4 mile military skills event, Sgt Davies, Cpls Bradley and their tasks. Sgt Ivan Davies and Mechanic from the LAD, led by finishing in a strong 132 Sqn’s Sgt Musicha, provided 3rd position overall out a Capability Stand for the day. of 59 teams in 41:51. Usually beating HQ Coy sunshine, the teams AGC(SPS) Triple and cheerleading squad Crown Challenge this year were treated Capt Axtell to torrential downpours On 8th May members of the and hailstones! Bn’s SPS Det took part in the However, the team dug annual TCC event in Worthy deep and put in fantastic Down. Two separate challenges performances all round. - a 10-mile march and shoot competition and a 4-mile military skills competition. Capt Axtell, LCpl Rai, Pte Penhallurick and Pte Tawake

THE EAGLE | 24 7 AVIATION SUPPORT BATTALION REME

Cpl Scott Bradley were placed in had rolled on its side after landing and successfully completed their prevented lifting operations. Stand 3 along with OR9 François on soft ground, the teams had tasks after which the Recovery After several days working Crochet (WO1 equivalent) from to use hand winches (Tirfors) to Mechanics would show them how in the sun, the RAF team the French Airforce, controlling right the airframe and winch it they would perform the task using arranged an excellent farewell/ the recovery of a Lynx which had to hard standing where the SVR prizegiving function before overturned. Cpl Matt Holden could be utilised to lift it onto capabilities of the SVR using we all assisted packing up and and LCpl Gaz Richardson were an awaiting trailer. The Recovery the Jib and winch. The language beginning the journey home. involved in the Airbag recovery Mechanics provided specialist barriers were easily overcome The Recovery Mechanics from demo of a VC10 Aircraft albeit in recovery and safety advice to by practical demonstration if 7Bn REME strengthening their a minor role due to the availability the teams as many had never needed, the weather was a factor position as a vital asset in the of TEREX Cranes on site. used Tirfors and had never been due to being unusually warm JARTS Team and helping to Stand 3 Scenario involved the involved in such tasks before. for most of the week and very make the most of the training recovery of a Lynx Airframe which All the teams rotated through windy on the last day, which available for all involved.

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THE EAGLE | 25 7 AVIATION SUPPORT BATTALION REME

7 AVN SP BN REME HOST THE REME BOXING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2019 On the week starting 13 May 2019 the REME Boxing Championships began in Wattisham hosted by 7 Bn. The boxers from REME units all over the UK trained for months in preparation for the event to fight for the crown of 2019 Corps Champions.

total of 27 boxers, event. The highlight of these bouts Brierley (7 Avn Sp Bn) in his first 13 weeks. When it came to the including 3 females from was the clash of two 7 Bn boxers, ever fight fought bravely in a close fight itself it was a close contest A across the Corps and a LCpl Shah and LCpl Loughlin contest to beat Cfn Sanders (5 FS with both boxers trading blows. small number of attached arms who had trained together since Bn) by split decision. Egged on With the bell at the end of round entered this year meaning that Christmas with LCpl Shah coming not only by the home crowd but 3 sounding, the demonstration there were preliminary bouts out on top of this contest to also his family watching along on on controlled aggression was contested on Monday 13th with progress to the final. the Facebook Live stream on the outstanding. Both boxers had the boxers fighting for a place in Under the lights and in front of Bn Facebook page. started the fight as friends, the final on the Wednesday night. an eager crowd including a 2 Star Another extraordinary bout fought tirelessly against each Supported by Bn personnel in General and two 1 Star Brigadiers, was the all 7 Avn Sp Bn Light other for 6 minutes and then station, the boxers traded blows the contests took place with some Heavyweight bout fought at the end embraced as friends. and fought gallantly for the right excellent displays of boxing. At between LCpl Coulson and LCpl Unfortunately, there could only to fight under the lights in the big Welterweight, a smiling LCpl Hess , both in the same Coy and be one winner of the bout with both very good friends, they LCpl Coulson being crowned had been training together for winner. Further success for the Bn

THE EAGLE | 26 7 AVIATION SUPPORT BATTALION REME

Red Corner Unit Blue Corner Unit Winner Unit Champion 2Lt Welsh 1 CS Bn Cpl Wood 4 Armd CS Bn Cpl Wood 7 Avn Sp Bn REME Cfn Ambler 6 Armd CS Bn Cpl Mills 7 Avn Sp Bn Cfn Ambler Cfn Sanders 5 FS Bn LCpl Brierley 7 Avn Sp Bn LCpl Brierley Best Boxer LCpl Small 6 Armd CS Bn LCpl Miller 1 CS Bn LCpl Small LCpl Shah 7 Avn Sp Bn REME LCpl Hume 5 FS Bn LCpl Adey 7 Avn Sp Bn LCpl Adey LCpl Coulson 7 Avn Sp Bn LCpl Hess 7 Avn Sp Bn LCpl Coulson Most Gallant Cfn Collins 6 Armd CS Bn Pte Koroibanuve 7 Avn Sp Bn Cfn Collins LCpl Hess 7 Avn Sp Bn REME LCpl Berry 5 FS Bn LCpl Shah 7 Avn Sp Bn LCpl Shah

on the night went to LCpl Shah running of an excellent event. The (Middleweight) and LCpl Adey biggest acknowledgement should (Super Heavyweight). go to all the boxers that took At the end of an amazing part in the event. It takes a lot of evening with some incredible courage to stand up in front of displays a Unit Champion had any number of people and trade to be awarded. Presented by Maj blows for 6 minutes. All those General Hamilton CBE, 7 Avn Sp that took part truly embodied our Bn REME were crowned REME values and standards. Well done!!! Boxing Champions 2019. A team Videos of the fights are available that at the beginning of 2019 on the 7 Avn Sp Bn REME didn’t exist and with many new Facebook page for anyone that boxers, in a matter of weeks they missed them on the night and were Corps Champions. would like to see the amazing Well done to all those that took event for themselves. part in organisation, set up and

THE EAGLE | 27 MILITARY WIVES CHOIR

he choir have had a busy attended enjoyed some of the first half of the year and new acapella numbers that we Tare looking forward to have been working on this term. break will be 10th September getting back to it after our well So far this year we have and we will be looking forward earnt summer break! Since We have also been working on a welcomed 5 new members which to getting back to grips with our the last Eagle went to print top-secret recording project that has been a great boost to our remembrance pieces and maybe we have performed at several is all under wraps at the moment! numbers but as usual we are even some Christmas numbers! different places. Watch this space for an exciting always on the hunt for new ladies announcement about this soon, to join us. We meet on a Tuesday Please contact us via our In May we spent a lovely keep an eye on our Facebook evening 7-9pm in the station Facebook page Wattisham evening performing for the page for updates about this and church, no singing experience is Military Wives Choir if you ladies of the WI Bucklesham other upcoming projects and gigs required and we can teach you would like more information singing a variety of songs we have lined up for the rest of all you need to know. Our first about joining or booking us for and enjoying the famous WI the year. rehearsal back after summer a performance. hospitality (and cake!). There were about 50 ladies who came to watch us and despite the warm evening there was lots of positive feedback and the members enjoyed joining in with the songs they were familiar with which always brings a smile or two.

We were also lucky enough to be asked to sing again with the Waveney Wind Band at ‘Music for a Summers Evening’. A few joint numbers were performed with the band and we are in talks about holding another concert with them closer to home for us so watch this space! The bands conductor is the husband of one of our members and they provided an amazing BBQ for us before the concert, luckily the weather held out and a great evening was had by all.

Of course, the cocktail party signals the end of term for us and it is always a privilege to be asked to sing for the guests and give something back to the station. We hope those who

THE EAGLE | 28 HIVE

Wattisham HIVE

Wattisham Information & Support Centre, 2 Valley Road Mon, Tue, Thu 8.30-4.30 Fri 8.30-3.30

Hadleigh Welfare House, 14 Leeks Cl, Hadleigh Wed 8.30-4.00 HIVE Information Centres support the chain of command and service communities through the provision of up-to-date and relevant information worldwide. The HIVE offer an extensive range of information on relocation, local unit and civilian facilities, places Tel Civ: 01449 728263 of interest, forces discounts, schools and further education, accommodation, healthcare, Tel Mil: 94674 8263 employment and training opportunities as well as discounts, deployment, transition, Email: wattishamhive@ resettlement, welfare signposting and financial information. armymail.mod.uk

HIVE Blog Log onto Wattisham HIVE Blog at: wattishamhive.blogspot.co.uk HIVE blogs are continuously updated to provide the very latest information on a range of topics including:

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THE EAGLE | 29 HERITAGE CORNER

hile we commemorate Bomber was of course the first Wattisham Airfields aircraft type at Wattisham in W 80th year, look 1939 flown by 107 and 110 sqns, Heritage around the airfield and you delivering the first bombing raid will see that there are many of the war on 4th Sept of that landmark buildings and sites year. Wg Cdr Embry was leader of remaining from the World 107 Sqn; he led many intensive Corner War 2 and Cold War periods. raids against the German advance The airfield has actually shrunk in 1940 which earned him a 2nd quite a bit since the 1950’s. At Bar to his DSO. However, it was the start of WW2, Wattisham’s back at Wattisham that Embry Bristol Blenheim bombers were was also witnessing enemy dispersed on to farmland in the attacks on the airfield; not only adjoining villages away from the was he experiencing loss of life, hangar line and accommodation; but also the demolition of aircraft the enemies prime targets. as the war progressed. Embry When the USAAF joined the war, set about designing walls or dispersal areas were concreted. ‘pens’ as they were also known to There is still evidence of these protect aircraft from enemy fire dispersals to the north of the and bomb blast. At Wattisham airfield, and across the ‘new’ road blast walls began to be erected (built just after the war) parallel during the war and into the Cold to the runway, where the WW2 War period, when the walls may memorial is sited. Approximately also have protected the new jet six wartime ‘Pill Boxes’ remain aircraft from missiles and air scattered across the airfield, and attack. These structures became even a couple of searchlight bases known as ‘Embry’s Follies’, and can be found near the perimeter. are still referred to as such by But there also remain some very Wattisham’s jet age pilots today. familiar concrete structures The Airfield Museum chronicles that were a common late war/ the 80 years of Wattisham’s early Cold War addition to many history. To find out more, or to airfields in the late 1940s and book a visit, please go to www. early 1950, namely the Blast wattishamstationheritage.org Walls. It is a little-known fact Photo’s: Wing Commander Basil these stark looking structures Embry (in flying suit), Meteor and were the idea of RAF Wattisham’s Javelin jets with ‘Embry’s Follies’. very own Wing Commander Article by Maggie Aggiss, Basil Embry DSO. The Blenheim Wattisham Station Heritage.

THE EAGLE | 30 HIVE HERITAGE CORNER

Wattisham Airfield THE WRVS have 3 rooms within our nursery, Childcare babies (0-2years), Toddlers (2-3 HERRICK CLUB years and Pre-school (3-5 years). t the time of writing this we Centre If you require a space for your child are baking in 33 degrees, e would like to say a in our pre-school room to claim Aand unfortunately I do big thank you to all your Early Years funding 15 or not have my summer hat on! The W the people who joined 30 hours; we suggest registering Centre continues to be busy so us for our summer fun day in July, your child with us early to avoid come along and enjoy the facilities. we appreciate your continued disappointment. September 2019 Forces Mutual visit weekly usually support. We raised £530.50!!!! spaces are now being booked. We on a Thursday, call in and pick up a Fundraising enabled us to develop provide Government Early Years card if you need to contact them. Normal Opening Hours: our large outdoor area with much funding for 2, 3 and 4 year old If you just want to relax, tea and Mon - Thu 1000 - 1300 hrs. needed resources and new flooring children, which is available the coffee are always available. This 1800 - 2200hrs. for under the climbing frame. term after the child’s birthday. We hot weather we have squash in Fri 0930 - 1200 hrs. Our children have had some offer this on a term time only basis various flavours to cool you down. Sat CLOSED amazing experiences these past where your child can use up to their Snooker, pool and table tennis Sun 1800 - 2200 hrs. few months within their topics 15/30 hours a week entitlement are here for you to enjoy as are a from visiting Baylham rare during the school term and not selection of Board Games. WRVS breeds farm, making and hiding attend in the school holidays. We provides a confidential listening ear Wattisham Airfield their own Wattisham rocks now offer a holiday club in school so if there is something you need to Childcare Centre learning about different forms holidays for children up to the age chat about please come and see me. c/o/ 2 Valley Road of communication and how our of 5 (upon request). If you would Wattisham Airfield emotions in everyday life. like a space, I would advise booking Telephone: Ipswich Our nursery is open Monday to 6 weeks before the holiday start Civ: 01449 72 8935 IP7 7RE Thursday 8am-6pm and Friday date. For more information please Mil: 94674 8935 8am-1pm 38 weeks of the year. call into the nursery or contact 01449 728928 Catering for children from the Sarah (Manager) or Claire (Deputy Julie - the Hat [email protected] age of 3 months to 5years. We Manager) on 01449 728928.

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THE EAGLE | 31 STATION WELFARE DEPARTMENTS

3 Regiment AHF/Welfare Team Office Number 01449 728321

Emergency Number 01449 728220

Email [email protected]

UWO: UWWO: Capt C Pickett WO2 Sharp D

4 Regiment Welfare Team Office Number 01449 728421

Emergency Number 01449 728220

Email [email protected]

UWO: UWWO: Capt J Rees WO2 Tabuasei W

7 Avn Sp Bn Welfare Team

Office Number 01449 728721

Emergency Number 07976 176732

Email [email protected]

UWO: UWWO: UWSNCO: Capt C Eastman WO2 Killick D SSgt Booth R

Wattisham Welfare Coord Team

Reception Number 01449 728361

WISC Coordinator 01449 728358

HIVE 01449 728263

WISC Coord: WISC Receptionist: Mrs C Morrin Mrs A Douglas

THE EAGLE | 32 STATION WELFARE DEPARTMENTS

families from Hadleigh, HADLEIGH HIVE Ipswich and Wattisham. Mobile Library 14 LEEKS CLOSE When possible, during the HADLEIGH We have a mobile library which visits on a regular basis. If it is morning, members of the your first visit, please bring I.D with you to regisiter. You can Welfare Teams attend to borrow books, audio books, CDs, DVDs and computer games. give you the opportunity You can request stock from any library in Suffolk from our online to pick their brains. Other catalogue and pick it up from the mobile library. agencies also attend from time to time again Also find out about borrowing e-books and e-audio books from Every Wednesday, during term an ideal opportunity for the Suffolk libraries. time, 14 Leeks Close is opened by advice and or help. Magda Magda (Wattisham HIVE Officer) from the HIVE is always Next visit: 31st January. for coffee and sometimes cake. available with useful Time: 13:45 – 14:15 The house is open from 0845 hrs information on the area. Venue: Premier Car Park to 1500 hrs and welcomes all Please come and say hello.

Contact House Wattisham Station Community Centre The Contact House is a three- Angie on Tel: 01449 728621/ bedroom house based on 8358 Mil: 94674 8621/ 8358. The Community Centre is widely used for parties, meetings, training, clubs and social events. the patch at Wattisham. It is administered by the WISC for Weekend/Party Hire of the Community Centre use by soldiers and their families. (includes Windsor/Cambridge/Kitchen/Conservatory) Current cost is £30 per night can be booked at a cost of £40 plus £50 refundable deposit with a minimum charge of £60. To find out more information or For further information and bookings, please contact make a booking please contact Angie on, Tel: 01449 728621/8358, Mil: 94674 8621/8358

Wattisham Station House Repairs (24 hours) Help and support Youth Club for veterans from The Youth Club continues take a break over the summer Wattisham Station the MOD to grow, and we have again holidays but will return on Tue via Amey welcomed new members from 3 Sept. 0800 707 6000, option 3 Veterans UK Helpline both the military and civilian If you are interested in joining 0808 1914 218 community. Our young people us our sessions run every Hadleigh and Ipswich have taken part in many Tuesday (during term time) as activities at the Youth Club follows: via Flagship Email: [email protected] including games, arts and 6 – 11 Year Olds – 1700 – 1830 0203 6039472 crafts, Wattisham rocks and hrs (Juniors) www.gov.uk/veterans-uk generally just having a fun 12 – 16 Year Olds – 1845 – time. We ventured onto the 2015 hrs (Seniors) camp and took our Junior £1 per session Styling the Station: Opening Hours members swimming, this was a great success and something Paperwork needs to be Mon-Thurs: 0900–1730 hrs Fri: 0900–1430 hrs we will visit again in the future. completed before registration, Our final session was on Tue 16 please contact Clare on 01449 No appointment necessary Jul and we held a BBQ which 728358. After hours appointments are available for the first time saw Junior’s and Senior’s coming Chantelle: 01449 728634 together for an event. Again, this was a great success and it was We need you! fab to see our Senior COMMITTEE MEMBERS WANTED members interacting All money raised by Wattisham with the Juniors in SSAFA remains on unit such a mature way. Contact Kate Ext 8234 or 01449 Youth Club will now 7234

THE EAGLE | 33 STATION WELFARE DEPARTMENTS

WATTISHAM ROCKS Wattisham Rocks has been a huge success with 109 members both Military and Civilian and climbing daily.

Parents and children can be seen family is 58! We have also had the walking to and from school and pleasure of Wattisham Airfield during the evenings looking for Childcare Centre joining in the stones with their finds being fun by taking the children on uploaded daily to the Wattisham organised group walks looking Rocks Facebook page. The group for and hiding more stones. With has been lucky to have an active November approaching, we will base who not only search for be looking to create some Poppy the rocks but have been busily inspired designs to honour our creating many more designs to many service members. increase the rocks available to Please join us and become a be found. The current record member of the Facebook page - AND FINALLY... for finds in 1 day by 1 addicted Wattisham Rocks. Captain Jason Commander’s Rees (AAC) A new arrival in to the 4 Regt Regt which saw Capt Rees deploy Welfare Team as we welcome on 3 Ex CRIMSON EAGLES in Coin Award Captain Jason Rees (AAC), who California. Captain Rees is engaged replaces Captain Gray Searle (AAC) to Sylviane who lives in Belgium. Congratulations to our who has taken up the appointment He has two sons Lewis, 17 and Station Welfare Co- as the RCMO of 4 Regt. Our best Owen 15. Captain Rees’s main ordinator, Clare Morrin wishes to Gray who has done a passion is rugby where he coaches who was awarded the sterling job over the past two years. at Stowmarket Rugby Club. He has Commander’s Coin. Captain Rees arrives fresh from also recently been appointed as the Col Chris Bisset SHAPE in Belgium having recently Youth Chairman and is also actively presented Clare her commissioned in to the AAC from involved in the RFU’s All Schools award prior to handing the AGC (SPS). Captain Rees is no Rugby programme. over command to Col stranger to Wattisham as he has Paul Hayhurst. The previously served here twice with award was presented both 3 & 4 Regt AAC. This is the to acknowledge all of second appointment as a UWO for Clare’s efforts and hard Captain Rees as he has previously work in organising the served as the welfare officer whilst Station Visitors Day. assigned at MOD Main Building. Captain Rees served as the SSA of 4 Regt AAC between 2004/06 and saw him deploy on various Regt’l Exercises as well as deploying on Op TELIC in 2005. More recently he returned to Wattisham in June 2015 as the RAWO of 3

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THE EAGLE | 35 MET OFFICE WATTISHAM

Follow us on Twitter: @MetOWattisham

Met Hazard Focus: Thunder storms cooler air moving over a warm sea, forcing from higher up in Hottest the atmosphere, or by surface level convergence of the winds. Thunderstorms can also occur in large clusters, known as meso- July day scale convective systems. These usually originate over Spain or France in on Record the summer when the large landmasses heat up considerably. These systems are then driven The end of July brought a very hot north towards the UK and can few days, with exceptionally high hunderstorms are a bring intense rainfall, lightning temperatures recorded. meteorological hazard strikes and hail. T which occur most igh pressure centred medium level cloud meant often in the summer. They The most significant over Scandinavia the temperature rise slowed occur when the air is unstable hazards associated with H allowed hot air to be during the day. However, (in other words, when the thunderstorms include severe brought to the UK straight 25th July was the 2nd hottest temperature of the air icing and turbulence within from Africa, helping to cause day on record at Wattisham. decreases as you go higher up the cloud, intense rainfall, the very hot conditions. The With increasing temperatures into the atmosphere). They lightning strikes, hail and 25th July saw the hottest July due to man-made climate can occur because of a variety downdraughts which can lead day on record at Wattisham change, these exceptionally of factors including surface to low level turbulence. Hail with the temperatures of 34.4 hot periods are expected to heating during the day time, is formed when particles of °C. The previous July record become more frequent in the water move up and down was recorded only last year UK. We hope to be able to with a temperature of 34.1 C. show the effects of climate The all-time temperature change on Wattisham’s record at Wattisham of 35.3 climate in a future issue of C (10 August 2003) was the Eagle. not broken. An increase in

THE EAGLE | 36 ORCHARD BARN NEWS

nvitation to visit timbers from the Long House. benches and chairs. Courses will Orchard Barn FREE GREENWOOD WORKING be held weekly on Thursdays and I Heritage Open Afternoon courses Thanks to the Pargiter start at the end of September. and FREE Greenwood Trust we can now offer 7 free Priority will be given to retired working courses workshops in how to use people living within a 10 mile We’re making good progress traditional hand tools and locally radius of Orchard Barn. Please with reinstating the Long sourced wood to make items such email [email protected] if House. Thanks to the Heritage as tool handles, dibbers, bowls, you would like to apply for a place. Thunder storms Lottery Fund we have provided medieval style timber framing inside a cloud in response training at no cost to a broad to the downdraughts and range of trainees. They have up draughts. As they move learnt how to use chisels, down (and therefore warm planes, side axes and two up) they collide with other person saws. As part of their particles of water. They course they have hewn braces then move upwards (and and cut cranked tie beams get cooler) which leads to a from curved oak logs. layer of ice deposition. This Come and see how we are occurs repeatedly until the using these local trees in our hail stone is too large to be big project ….. As part of the supported by the up draughts national Heritage Open Days and falls to the ground. there will be a range of heritage Lightning strikes can also building demonstrations be a significant hazard to and talks at Orchard Barn aircraft, both when in the on Saturday 7th September. air and when refuelling on Timing is 2.30-4.30. Please the ground. Downdraughts walk, cycle or share lifts. We are intense bursts of air are just south of Mill Road, which propagate downwards Battisford. Post code IP14 2LY. through the atmosphere and Admission is free but donations can be strong enough to push are welcome towards repairing aircraft downwards through some of the 500 year old the atmosphere.

A severe thunderstorm outbreak occurred in East Anglia on the 20th July 2016. There was very moist air at the surface combined with forcing from higher up in the atmosphere. The thunderstorms started further west in the country but then became more intense as they met moister air over Suffolk. 16 mm of rain fell in less than 20 minutes and visibility was reduced to less than 800 M during the event. Hailstones with a diameter of 8mm were also reported at Wattisham.

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THE EAGLE | 38 Pumpkins, Festival of Food and Tea with Santa too!

As the summer days draw to a As we move through to November, we start to get into the close, we look forward to the Christmas spirit with our Food Festival on Saturday 9th November. months ahead and at Hollow The festival showcases the wonderful creations produced at Hollow Trees Farm there’s lots to be Trees Farm. Our Butchers will be taking your Christmas meat orders excited about. October sees the and our Chefs will have tasters of what they can bake and create return of our hugely popular for the perfect Boxing Day buffet! We also welcome lots of local Holloween Festival. The Farm suppliers to showcase their wares too including cakes, beer, wine, Trail will be transformed to the and much more. Whether its festive inspiration or just a love of Greatest Show on Earth. There good food and drink, make sure you’ve got this one-day event in will be lots of pumpkin themed your diary. fun for all ages, including the Big Top Barn which will be full of curious creations and creatures. You can ride the Cresta Run Sledges and Barrel Train as well as get lost in the Maize Maze where you can marvel at the mysterious Holloween Festival Fun! creatures you find. Don’t forget Another date for your diary, our farm animals too. We’ve got Monday 9th September. This is cows, chickens, goats, pigs and when our Tea with Santa tickets alpacas, that will all love to meet go on sale. This ‘sell out’ event you and say hello! runs on Monday to Thursday evenings in December. Children will love our festive tea in our Hurry to book Tea with Santa! Farm Café and the chance to meet Santa in his grotto! Whatever the weather, there is always lots to do at Hollow Trees Grown-ups can also enjoy a hot Farm. Whether it’s picking up your fresh vegetables from the Farm drink and cake too. Shop for dinner, catching up with friends over a coffee in the Farm Café, choosing the perfect pumpkin or Christmas tree from the Plant Call 01449 741 247 to book Centre or enjoying a walk to meet the animals on the Farm Trail, you your tickets, but be quick, they are sure to always have a Great Day Out! Visit our website for all the sell out fast! latest news and information: www.hollowtrees.co.uk.

THE STRANGEST SHOW ON EARTH

Friday 18th – Sunday 27th October 2019

£7.50 per person adults and children 2 years and under free

Dare to walk the Big Top Barn and marvel at the Mysterious Maze. Conquer the Giant’s Straw Stack and ride the Barrel Train and Cresta Run Sledges. There are still all the usual Farm Trail activities and lots more indoor and outdoor fun for all ages. Food and drink available too.

You will find us on the A1141 Hadleigh/Lavenham Road � 01449 741247 enve [email protected] display www.hollowtrees.co.uk

All children must be Open 10am until 4pm, with last entry 3pm accompanied by an adult We were formed in 1944 to care for the soldiers and families of those who fought in the Second World War.

75 years on, our purpose has not changed: we exist to ensure that all soldiers, veterans and their families are afforded the independence and dignity they deserve.

To fi nd out more, visit www.soldierscharity.org

Help us be here for their tomorrow.

Contact us for information on how you can apply for help, fi nd out more, or get involved in one of our fundraising challenges:

Tel: 020 7901 8900 Email: [email protected]

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420) and Scotland (039189)

Registered Offi ce: Mountbarrow House 12 Elizabeth Street London SW1W 9RB

Left to right: Brenda Hale, John Tyson, Mark Smith