Winter 2019 Winter WitteringThe official magazine for RAF Wittering and the A4 Force View

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 1 Features: In the Spotlight - Community Support Future • Accommodation Model • Fighting Ovarian Cancer 2 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 3 Editor Welcome to the Winter edition of Foreword the Wittering View. With Autumn now a distant It has been a busy first few memory, and as our thoughts turn months for me. But I wanted to Christmas, we can’t quite believe to start simply by saying thank how quickly this year has gone! you for all the support that RAF Wittering is an incredibly you have given me, as well as to say thank you to all of our busy Station but despite this incredible personnel who have everyone has still found time continued to support both the throughout the year to send in their Station and the A4 (Logistics and articles for which we are grateful. As Engineering) Force Elements. a result, this issue features a good Some of the recent highlights cross-section of the activities taking have included; place here at Wittering. • The Annual Formal Visit by Air From the recent Annual Formal Officer Commanding (AOC) 38 Visit (page 6) and Annual Reception Group, Air Vice-Marshal Simon (page 8) to the various exercises Ellard. The AOC spent 30 hours that Station personnel have been on Station and was able to see involved with (Exercise COBRA the tremendous work that our WARRIOR – page 12 and Exercise personnel from across the Whole JOINT SUPPORTER – page 9), it does Force conduct on a daily basis. seem like the last few months have Our unofficial theme was ‘shine been non-stop. through our people’ and we The work of the Community certainly did! Another fun event took place such as drink driving and Support and AirPlay Teams is in the • We were also able to showcase in Winchester, when the RAF drugs – don’t put your life, the our capabilities to the local Wittering team competed in the lives of others or your career at spotlight on page 18, while Wing dignitaries and civic community Countess of Wessex Cup. They risk for a moment of madness. Commander Debs Wright talks during the Station’s Annual came second to 5 Rifles, and it We must also spare a thought for about why she is working with the Formal Reception. was great that the Countess could those who will be deployed, on charity Target Ovarian Cancer (page • The was another join us and fantastic that she took essential duty or no longer with 24). Meanwhile nothing quite says special day, where it was great to part in both the shooting and us. They will be missed. Christmas like the smell of home- see our personnel on parade and high ropes. Finally, the sheer volume of made mince pies, so why not try our I was able to personally attend We have also bid farewell awards the Station and Force recipe on page 30. services in both Stamford and to two of our Warrant Officers continue to win says so much On a different note, the Wittering , as well as spend who left the RAF during this about our people. We have seen View editorial team is currently some time with some of the period. Both WO Bervoets and our Safety and Assurance Cell win looking for new members to join incredible veterans and air cadets. WO Pinnion have served in excess Air Command’s Total Safety Award us. So, whether you fancy yourself We have also seen some of 30 years in the RAF and it was and we have also won the AirPlay as a writer, turning your hand to incredible opportunities for teams important to take time out and Award, which highlights the Image By Anna Frajtova at Shutterstock.com some editing or helping with the to pull together – one of those say a fond farewell to them both. work of our fantastic Community distribution, then please contact us events was the Peterborough Half We wish them all the very best for Support Team and the wider for some more information. Marathon. More than 30 Station the future. community. The presentation of Finally, the Wittering View team personnel trained for three With plans for Christmas events the Stainforth Trophy - to mark would like to wish all our readers a months for this event, some not already well underway, it looks the exceptional contribution the having even run 5km before. The like we will continue to be busy Station made in 2018 - is a fitting very Merry Christmas and a Happy team spirit was incredible and, for the next few months. I hope way to end the year. The fact New Year! despite the Peterborough event that as many people as possible that these awards cover so many being cancelled at the last minute are able to take some quality time aspects of the Station and Force See you all next year. on the day, many of our off over this festive period, but Element outputs is testimony to Wittering View Editorial Team committed personnel from the please take care. your efforts. team have completed their own It is really important to relax and 13.1 miles to ensure the money enjoy time with family and friends Congratulations to all of you. raised could be retained for the but look after yourself and others View RAF Benevolent Fund. – stop and think about things

Winter 2019 Winter WitteringThe official magazine for RAF Wittering and the A4 Force Submissions Please direct all submissions for Wittering View Magazine to: The Editor, [email protected] [email protected] Please try to ensure that images are in .jpeg format and as large as possible. Text should be supplied in Microsoft Find us on Facebook Word .doc format or plain text if possible. at Wittering View

1 WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 4 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 In the Spotlight • Community Support - Exercise COBRA WARRIOR • Future Accommodation Mode • Fighting Ovarian Cancer Features: Wittering View The official magazine for RAF Wittering and the A4 Force

06 12 24 Contents Annual Formal Visit 06 501 Squadron marks 90 years 07 News in Brief 08 The Future Accommodation Model 11 Padre’s Corner 11 Exercise COBRA WARRIOR 12 RAF Video Gaming and Esports Association 13 In the Spotlight... Community 16 Support and Airplay Team Johnnie Johnson Appreciation Society 18 Warrant Officers Retire 20 Join the search, Change a Life 22 Heritage Centre 23 RAF Officer Signs Up to Fight Ovarian Cancer 24 Recycling Cycles 25

Community News 26 Tea Break Time 28 09 In the Hot Seat 30 Editor Distribution Designed By Flt Lt Madi Timlin Morrisons Stamford, Sainsbury's Stamford, Families' Laura Lang [email protected] Shop Wittering, Walkers of Stamford, Stamford coffee shops, Phoenix Shop Wittering, Wittering Advertising Deputy Editor local businesses and amenities. Lance Print Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Emma Stacey Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL Published By Tel: Jo on 01536 334221 Team Lance Print Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, [email protected] Marissa Russell, SAC Jack Welson, Ed Palmer Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL and SAC Kim Waterson. Tel: 01536 334222 Printing www.lanceprint.co.uk Lance Print Ltd, Email: [email protected] Tel: 01733 390564

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 5 ANNUAL FORMAL VISIT 501 SQN RAF Wittering’s Annual Formal Visit Every year the Air Officer Commanding No 38 Group and Chief of Staff for Support makes a formal visit to RAF Wittering to engage with personnel and understand the roles they play in delivering Defence outputs. Visiting 42 Wing.

It is an opportunity to discuss awarded to the Station for being matters of the moment that the most effective in the delivery may be affecting how RAF of support to operations, the Wittering personnel work, and development of its people and its to discuss some of the ideas readiness to respond and adapt. that have been developed Furthermore, Wittering also won and implemented within their both the Airplay Team of the Year working environment. and the RAF Total Safety Trophy Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) for 2019. Simon Ellard is the Air Officer The final day of the visit Commanding No 38 Group and started with the Warrant Officers’ he was joined by his Command breakfast and group discussion. Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer AVM Ellard then hosted a Stu Pullar, and his Deputy Town Hall where he provided Personal Staff Officer, Pilot Officer the audience with a precis on Kate Manley-Soanes, for this year’s his areas of responsibility and Annual Formal Visit which took an update on the RAF Senior place in October. Leadership Team’s strategy for AVM Ellard and his team met delivering the Next Generation AVM Ellard at the Town Hall. many station personnel including RAF, before inviting questions RAF Regulars and Reserves, from the packed audience. members of the Civil Service, The AVM then concluded his Contractors and Army personnel Annual Formal Visit with a tour lodging at RAF Wittering. of the Station community and On the first day the AVM toured welfare facilities, to see what RAF the working environments of the Wittering provides to its workforce RAF Wittering A4 Force Elements and their families, and then to the and the Station’s Operations Wing. RAF Wittering Reserves Squadron. He was then prepared lunch by RAF Wittering’s Station members of 3 Mobile Catering Commander and the A4 Force Squadron to demonstrate the Elements Commander outstanding food they can Jo Lincoln said: prepare in the field. “The visit was a great success. The day concluded with the We couldn’t have asked more of AVM presenting various RAF our fantastic people and I wish to Wittering personnel with Honours convey my most heartfelt thanks and Awards in recognition of their for all the hard work, time and excellent service. It has been a effort put in by our whole force successful year with the Station towards the visit.” winning the Stainforth Trophy – Attending the Warrant Officers’ Breakfast.

AVM Ellard visits the Armoury. Speaking to Support Wing personnel.

6 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 501 SQN Squadron Marks 90 Years

This year No 501 (County of Gloucester) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force celebrated its 90th anniversary. It marked the anniversary with a formal parade through Gloucester.

No 501 Squadron was formed seven downed pilots as prisoners in 1929 at RAF as No 501 of war (including four at Sagan). (City of ) Squadron, a Initially disbanded in 1945, the special Reserve Squadron. In Squadron was reformed in 1946, 1936 it became 501 (County until it was disbanded again in 1957. of Gloucester) Squadron Royal In June 2001, No 501 Squadron Auxiliary Air Force and the reformed, as a multi-trade Squadron transferred organisation including Logistics, to Fighter Command in Flight Operations and Force December 1938. Protection, before re-rolling into a In May 1940, the Squadron Force Protection role with personnel went to France, as part of the mobilised to Kuwait, Iraq and Advanced Air Striking Force (AASF). Afghanistan. During the Battle of France, 501 In 2006, the Squadron was Squadron shot down 54 enemy honoured with the Freedom of aircraft, losing only seven Hurricanes Gloucester, which allows them to and four pilots. During the Battle parade in the city with bayonets of Britain, the Squadron boasted fixed and Colours unfurled. aces such as Ginger Lacey, the The Squadron is now one of Battle of Britain’s highest scoring three specialist logistics support SNCO RAF pilot (famous for squadron’s, established to provide shooting down the bomber which the A4 Force with bombed Buckingham Palace), and a cadre of Reserve Royal Air Force Kenneth Mackenzie who downed a Logistics Drivers, Suppliers, and Messerschmitt 109 using the wing more recently Chefs, based at RAF of his Hurricane. Brize Norton. At the end of war, the Squadron had flown 11,140 sorties, shot down PHOTO: No 501 (County of Gloucester) 201 enemy aircraft and 84 V-1 flying Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force marked bombs, losing a total of 115 aircraft its 90th anniversary with a formal parade in combat, with 57 pilots killed, and through Gloucester.

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 7 NEWS IN BRIEF Image By Smileus at Shutterstock.com Image By News In Brief Runners Overcome Annual Formal Reception Race Dilemma

Personnel from RAF Wittering meets and stuck to a bespoke Sandwiched between three Guests were hosted by were left disappointed after training programme in a bid to raise counties RAF Wittering has built Wittering’s Officers and escorted the Perkins Great Eastern Half £3,000 for the RAFBF. strong bonds and relationships around each capability display Marathon in Peterborough But sadly, organisers had to cancel with schools, councils, local while entertained by a quintet was cancelled. the event on the day due to a dignitaries, military affiliated from the Band of the RAF College A team of 34 volunteers police incident. organisations and local Cranwell. Refreshments were (pictured) had joined forces Not to be defeated, several businesses. by the catering staff, all within to raise funds for the RAF members of the team, including The Annual Formal Reception 3 Mobile Catering Squadron’s Benevolent Fund. Wg Cdr Maggie Boyle and Gp Capt (AFR) is an opportunity to hangar and the RAF Wittering The Wittering Wildfire's, led by Lincoln, ran the half marathon in thank them for their continued Heritage Centre. Station Commander Group Captain their own time so the money could support and maintain those The Band of the RAF College Jo Lincoln, held weekly running still be donated. ties as well as building new Cranwell provided a highly relationships. professional parade and Sunset This year’s AFR saw more than Ceremony on the Waterfront 120 guests welcomed to the unit accompanied by the Station by the new Station Commander Warrant Officer and Ensign Party. Group Captain Jo Lincoln and her husband. The AFR followed the same PHOTOS: Top: RAF Wittering’s Station format as last year allowing all Commander Gp Capt Jo Lincoln three services to demonstrate to welcomes guests to the Annual guests what their role is both at Formal Reception. Wittering and for the Air Combat Bottom: The Band of the RAF College Service Support Units when Cranwell parading for the AFR deployed on Operations before conducting the Sunset around the world. Ceremony.

Reservist Mum Inspires Her Children

SAC Kirsten Tulloch, an RAF Norton, has inspired her children Reservist on 4624 Movements to join the military way of life. In Job Advert Squadron, part of the A4 Force, 2017, her son John joined the RAF recently deployed on Operation to become a Chef and while Kirsten Shader in Cyprus. irsten became was deployed, her other son, Hugh, WITTERING NEEDS YOU a Reservist in 2014 and in 2019 inspired by his twin brother and his was mobilised for eight months mum, realised his ambition to join Have you ever fancied yourself in support of Operation Shader, the Army as an Infantryman. based at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. Kirsten returned from Cyprus as a journalist? She said: “Mobilisation was a truly specially to attend Hugh’s passing exciting experience where I was out parade. Wittering View is looking to recruit new team members to help with the very pleased, and relieved, to find production and distribution of your favourite Station magazine. I was able to contribute effectively PHOTO: SAC Tulloch with her twin If you are interested in joining the team, please contact Emma Stacey alongside my regular counterparts.” sons, SAC John Britten and on ext 7541 for more information. Since joining the RAF Reserves, Pte Hugh Britten. Kirsten, who is based at RAF Brize

8 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 Major Anglo-French Logistics COMMENDATION Planning Exercise at Wittering FOR ‘AXEL’

Flight Sergeant ‘Axel’ Foley was presented with an Air Officer Race Dilemma Commanding (AOC) 38 Group Commendation by the A4 Force Commander and RAF Wittering Station Commander, Group Capt Jo Lincoln, on her inaugural visit to 501 Sqn RAuxAF at RAF Brize Norton. FS Foley was formally recognised for his long-standing and exceptional work in his primary role as the FS Training Supervisor on 501 Squadron. It also recognised his wider outstanding contribution to the work of the RAF Charitable Trust British and French military squadrons, and the unique (RAFCTE) annually at the Royal personnel were working capabilities they bring to Defence, International Air Tattoo at RAF together on a major logistics were all factored into the Fairford, and in support of the PHOTO: Gp Capt Jo Lincoln presents planning exercise at exercise scenario. RAFCTE RAF Concert tour with the the AOC 38 Group commendation RAF Wittering. Debs RAF Bands. to FS Foley. Wittering was the venue for Wright is Officer Commanding 85 phase two of Exercise JOINT Expeditionary Logistic Wing and SUPPORTER, bringing upwards of the principal logistics officer at 50 personnel from the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force Wittering. She said: RAF Wittering and Stamford Army and Royal Air Force. “Logistics is a massive part of what JOINT SUPPORTER is a we do at RAF Wittering, so I’m Commemorate Battle of Britain planning exercise based around very pleased that Exercise JOINT a hypothetical scenario; British SUPPORTER came to us. The Few were remembered as RAF Veteran Warrant Officer Bert Salvage, and French forces are deployed “Co-operation is what it’s all Wittering personnel and the people who had worked at RAF Wittering to a fictional area to keep the about in today’s world. Exercises of Stamford commemorated the during the V-Bomber era. peace and bring humanitarian like this allow us and our French Battle of Britain. Group Captain Lincoln said: “Today assistance. The exercise is owned partners to figure out how we are The service was led in cooperation the people of Stamford have shown by the MOD’s Standing Joint going to work effectively together by Royal Air Force Chaplain, the us that the sacrifices made in the Force Logistic Component on operations and get the best Reverend Squadron Leader Stewart Battle of Britain are as meaningful Headquarters (SJFLogC), based from each other.” Shaw and Reverend Canon Dr Keith today as they were almost 80 years at HMS Northwood. As well as Denison. Public figures and officials ago. Some people who live in the hosting JOINT SUPPORTER, including the Mayor of Stamford, town now, will be old enough to RAF Wittering contributed to the PHOTO: One of the French officers joined Group Captain Lincoln and remember those second world war exercise. The Station’s specialist working in a syndicate group. her officers. aircraft flying overhead.” engineering and logistics Royal Air Force personnel marched from the church to the War Memorial PHOTO: Group Captain Lincoln meets outside the Browne’s Hospital. Music RAF Veteran, 96-year-old Warrant was provided by the Yarwell and Officer Bert Salvage, formerly of RAF Countess of Wessex Cup Nassington Band. Wittering at the Battle of Britain Parade After the wreath laying, Group in Stamford. Captain Lincoln met 96-year-old RAF

Personnel from RAF Wittering Despite a heroic effort by competed in the Countess of Wittering, it was 5 Rifles who Wessex Cup. took the top spot, narrowly The event sees personnel beating Wittering into second from the Countess’s honorary place. Group Captain Jo Lincoln military appointments compete said: “Well done to my Team against each other in a series of from RAF Wittering for the challenges. The teams were determination and commitment from RAF Wittering, 5 Rifles, you showed at the Countess of Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Wessex Cup - Nursing Corps and the Corps of I could not have asked for more.” Army Music. Her Royal Highness, We're On Facebook! The Countess of Wessex, is the PHOTO: Team Wittering with Honorary Air Commodore of Sophie, the Countess of Wessex Keep up to date with all the community information, news and events RAF Wittering. and Gp Capt Jo Lincoln. by visiting and liking the Wittering View Facebook page.

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 9 NEWS IN BRIEF Record-Breaking Month For Port Liaison Team September broke records for the Port Liaison Team (PLT) from Wittering’s 1 Expeditionary Logistics (EL) Squadron. The PLT sends specialist teams military equipment to and from to ports around the world so Europe, the Middle-East and Asia. It RAF equipment which is too has been the busiest month in the big or heavy to be flown, can team’s history. be transported by sea and pass Earlier this year, the team through customs at foreign received a special commendation ports legally and quickly. from Royal Air Force Deputy The team needs to arrive at Commander Operations, Air the destination weeks ahead of Marshal Gerry Mayhew, which was schedule and works with the announced in the Queen’s Birthday the RAF has what it needs. That customs and diplomatic processes embassies and port authorities Honours List 2019. means moving those essential to make it happen smoothly, and to make sure the freight can be Group Captain Jo Lincoln, supplies by land, sea and air. that is what this team does so well.” unloaded and transported to the Station Commander at RAF “The Port Liaison Team exercise or operation smoothly. Wittering and Commander of the absolutely deserve their PHOTO: Some members of the Port During September, with RAF A4 (Logistics and Engineering) commendation. Moving military Liaison Team (from left) SAC Aaron only a small team to oversee Force Elements, said: “In modern air equipment from country to Veal, SAC Lauren Potter, Flight Sgt the handling of cargo, the PLT operations we use every logistics country is not always easy. You Mark Evans, Sgt Michael Luis and Sgt moved nearly 1,000 tonnes of means at our disposal to make sure need a detailed knowledge of Lee Markham. Safety Team at Wittering wins top award Total safety at RAF Wittering was formally recognised when the Station’s Safety & Assurance Centre picked up a major Royal Air Force award.

The RAF Safety Trophy 2019 work and those who are affected Operations Wing, the area under PHOTO: The Royal Air Force Wittering was presented to the team by the Station’s work. which the Safety & Assurance Total Safety & Assurance Cell. at MoD Shrivenham by Air In particular, the award Centre sits, said: “Our team has From left to right: Wing Commander Commodore Mark Jeffery, head recognises the team’s work in worked with real dedication Nick Maxey, Corporal Wayne Dowson, of the RAF Safety Centre. maintaining the safety of RAF and what they have achieved Flying Officer Thomas Murray, Corporal RAF Wittering’s Total Safety Wittering’s airfield. Less than two is greater than the sum of the Wayne Ross, Chief Tech Geoff Cook, & Assurance Centre looks after years ago, the airfield was used parts. But there is no room for Mrs Sharon Rawnsley, Mr Roger Paull, the safety requirements of every only by the Grob tutor aircraft; complacency, just because Squadron Leader Bob Mepham, Flt Lt unit on the Station. From airfield today fast jets, transport aircraft you’ve got an award, it doesn’t Louise Blakemore, Flt Lt Darren Miller, operations to the engineering and helicopters all make use mean you can relax. Total Safety Flying Officer Paul Mooney, Sergeant and logistics squadrons of the of the long runway and wide is a combination of individual Robbie Riches, Flight Sergeant Mark A4 Force Elements, their only taxiways. Wing Commander Nick efforts which are always Holliday. concern is the safety of people at Maxey, Officer Commanding ongoing.”

10 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 PADRE’S CORNER REGULAR Your Accommodation, Your Choice The Future Padre’s Corner Accommodation Model (FAM) The current system for accommodation was designed and implemented decades ago, and since then the way people live and work has changed. To reflect this, MOD is testing a new approach to accommodation. The Future Accommodation roughly the same amount for the Model gives more choice to accommodation that’s right for more Service personnel over you and your loved ones, whether where, how and with whom you chose to rent privately or you live. The pilot of this use SFA. You’ll also pay the same important policy is starting wherever you’re based in the at RAF Wittering on May 31, country - that’s because, to shield 2020. At the pilot FAM site you you from highly-priced areas, can still select Single Living MOD will pick up the difference. Building Blocks Accommodation (SLA) or It’s also good to know that SLA Service Family Accommodation and SFA will not be sold off (SFA), but you can also because of the pilot. choose to live in private rental The FAM pilot has been Well-being is something that has accommodation, or buy your designed with each of the own home. It’s your choice. Services, to test the policy and been advertised over the past few FAM applies equally to see how Service personnel everyone, whether you’re single, respond. This will help the MOD weeks on TV and in mainstream press. married, in a civil partnership, understand the issues that are or in a long-term relationship. important to you. The pilots will That’s because FAM aims to run in three sites, chosen by the But what is well-being and about being with other people improve and modernise the Services, for approximately three why does it matter? and it’s about sharing your way the MOD provides you with years. Once the pilot is complete, Well-being is not just a journey with someone else. accommodation, making it fairer a decision will be made about buzz word so that people can Making friends. and more flexible, while keeping whether to launch FAM across the say they are looking after the Your well-being matters, it affordable for the MOD. rest of the UK over the following welfare of either themselves or because when life gets The choice you make will be decade. others. Well-being is knowing crowded and our capacity personal to you. For example, If you are stationed at RAF how we ourselves tick, which shrinks, we need to know we have you always wanted to own Wittering, receive an assignment makes it easier to look after have people who are looking your own home? Or, do you wish order to the pilot site, or are other people and what we can out for us, as we will look out you and your partner could split just interested in learning more, do to help ourselves. for other people. the difference between both search Future Accommodation So! What are the best ways Mars bar used to have a your commutes to work? Perhaps Model on GOV.UK to find all to look after ourselves; slogan ‘Work, Rest and Play’. you’d like to rent somewhere the latest information. You can The first simple thing If you make time for yourself, to share with your friends? FAM also use Discover My Benefits is to talk to those we love. you will make time for your opens up these options to live in (discovermybenefits.mod.gov. Talking and communicating family and friends. the way that best works for you. uk) to find out what FAM benefits, is the key in any relationship, Challenge yourself over If you choose to rent or buy allowances and support apply to it helps to encourage and the next few weeks to look at a property you’ll get financial your personal situation. will bring support. When we how we work and play to see as well as practical support sit and allow that thought to if we can make changes to our through either process from PHOTO: FAM – giving you more ruminate inside our minds, it well-being and see how that MOD, offering you a helping choice over where, how, and with tends to get worse, which is impacts others. hand. It’s also reassuring to know whom you live. not good for our well-being. Come along to my Lego that through FAM you will pay Spending time with Well-being Project and see those we love is important, what new friends you can and I don’t mean just sitting make - real ones of course, not watching TV together. Get ones made of Lego. active, talk and share some For more information family fun. Dig out the good about the Lego Well-Being old family board games which Project please contact Padre get people laughing and Stew Shaw on ext 7877. sharing. I run a Lego Well-Being The Lego Well-Being Project Project on Station, which isn’t can help you learn how you tick. about playing with Lego. It’s about joining in together, it’s Padre Stewart Shaw about seeing something you started getting finished, its

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 11 FEATURE EX COBRA WARRIOR Exercise COBRA WARRIOR Logistics squadrons from the A4 Force at RAF Wittering have been fuelling and feeding international military Exercise COBRA WARRIOR at RAF Waddington in .

German Air Force A400M arrives at RAF Waddington in the build up to Exercise COBRA WARRIOR.

Aircraft from the German, Italian 1 EL Squadron ran the PBFI on and Israeli Air Forces joined aircraft Exercise Cobra Warrior. She said: from the Royal Air Force and “Building and operating a PBFI United States Air Force in high in an exercise is challenging and intensity tactical training. Around rewarding. The Fuels Support 50 aircraft of various types took Team work exceptionally hard in part in the exercise, which ran until all-weather conditions to ensure the end of September. we meet our operational capability Over a few weeks, the deadlines. There is a huge sense of Image shows an Israeli F-15 landing at RAF Waddington to take part in Fuels Support Team from No relief and satisfaction once we have Exercise COBRA WARRIOR starting on the 2nd September. 1 Expeditionary Logistics (EL) successfully tested the site and taken Squadron built the Primary Bulk fuel ready to issue to aircraft.” Fuel Installation (PBFI) at RAF Hundreds of men and women From aircraft repair and the chefs of 3MCS must prepare Waddington. These large portable from the participating nations flew recovery, to road transport, meals which the German, Italian tanks allow the Royal Air Force and maintained the aircraft during supply, catering and even and American air forces can to have an aircraft fuels depot the exercise. COBRA WARRIOR mountain rescue, these enjoy. The team had to produce anywhere in the world, especially is designed to test and grow the squadrons deploy at short three meals per day for 500 in places where fuels are not easily leadership skills of aircrew and notice and go anywhere in the people. available. groundcrew. Over the weeks they world to support Royal Air Force Acting Flight Sergeant Matt Building a PBFI is a complex developed and practiced tactics and operations. Caffyn, who ran a team of 19 process and fuels are dangerous if techniques against a capable enemy. No 3 Mobile Catering chefs from across the MOD, said: not handled and stored properly. The RAF is currently engaged Squadron (3 MCS) kept the “One of the challenges is getting The PBFI requires solid foundations in 15 missions on four continents exercise fed with a nutritionally an accurate idea of how many and must be built to precise in 22 countries and the A4 Force balanced diet. International people we’re feeding during measurements if it is to work is involved in most of them. The exercises like COBRA WARRIOR the day, because the phases of properly. A4 Force is made up of specialised can be challenging as in the exercise don’t run in sync Sergeant Sadie Johnstone from engineering and logistics squadrons. addition to British personnel, with meal times, but it was great

12 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 RAF VIDEO GAMING AND ESPORTS ASSOCIATION RAF Wittering Officer Founds Esports And Gaming Association

An engineering officer from RAF Wittering has founded an association for video gamers and Esports enthusiasts,

Acting Flight Sergeant Matt Caffyn of 3 MCS. called the Royal Air Force Video Gaming & Esports Association (RAF VGEA).

Everyone in the Royal Air Force who enjoys video games and Esports can join the RAF VGEA. A conservative estimate places the number of gamers in the concentration levels, multi- RAF at around 9,000 and, only tasking and brain speed; all a few weeks after launching, elements vital to operating not more than 500 serving just in an increasingly digital personnel had joined the new environment. association. Wg Cdr Penter said: “The The Association’s RAF VGEA insists on a higher Chairman and founder, Wing standard of behaviour from Commander Daniel Penter, is its members so that we can Officer Commanding No 42 ensure our co-operative gaming Expeditionary Support (ES) Wing. environment. In 20 years of 3MCS feeding the Italian Air Force. Wg Cdr Penter, who counts gaming, I’ve never played with World of Warcraft among his a group this large that’s been so favourite games, said: “Think of co-operative. Our collegiate and any sport or hobby and you will helpful atmosphere feeds into find an RAF association or club the social interaction we’re trying to support it. Gaming can be a to build.” solitary pastime and it’s healthy As well as providing a to have a social outlet where basis for the Royal Air Force gamers can meet up, much like to compete in Esports, the any other sport or interest group.” Association is assisting individual There is a distinct advantage RAF Stations generate Esports to the Royal Air Force in having Clubs with LAN rooms to an association for video games enable team training. The RAF and Esports. Control systems for Wittering Esports Club already modern aircraft are designed has 22 members from across with the PlayStation generation the Station, and the RAF VGEA in mind, and gamers have cyber- membership now has 1.5 skills which make them useful percent of the whole Service. recruits for careers in information Anyone wishing to follow and communications systems. the RAF VGEA’s progress can The Fuels Support Team from 1 (EL) Sqn A member of the Fuels Support Team Recent studies have also search for RAF VGEA on Twitch working on the PBFI. testing the fuels. demonstrated cognitive benefits and whole force RAF members of computer gaming including wishing to join should check the cooking for the Germans and the an improvement in coordination, intranet for their local association Italians. The Germans were more problem-solving skills, memory, representative. than happy and the Italians were taking pictures of the servery. The British were really chuffed, as usual.” Group Captain Jo Lincoln, RAF Wittering Station Commander and She concluded: “You can never A4 Force Element Commander, take anything for granted on an said: “During exercises and exercise like Cobra Warrior which operations we expect to work provides an excellent training with other military forces, so we opportunity for the A4 Force; have to be ready for the different there are always new things requirements they have. That to learn. The experienced and means a fuels team who can look skilled teams from 1 (EL) Sqn and after fuels safely, and a catering 3 MCS are there to ensure that squadron that understands people and aircraft have the food the dietary needs of other and fuel they need so that the The RAF VGEA Overwatch Team. nationalities.” exercises can be a success.”

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 13 14 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 15 IN THE SPOTLIGHT... COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND AIRPLAY TEAM Community Support and Airplay Team RAF Wittering’s Community Support Team and Airplay Team have had a busy few months. Here is a snap shot of what the teams have been up to. For more community and welfare news see page 26

Summer with Wittering Airplay Airplay Wittering had a fun-filled, action-packed summer this year!

the opening of the ‘Youth Drop In’. A little surprise was organised for the Community Development Officer Mark Davis who was presented with a cake with his face on it! Alongside all that the group managed to squeeze in two residentials. The first was Airfest, held at RAF Cosford, which was a chance for young people to experience an authentic music festival in a safe and secure environment. The second Community Development Officer residential was a Mark Davis shares cake (inset) with three-day visit to youngsters. London where they stayed on HMS Belfast. Activities during the A whole range of activities were held by Airplay trip included a visit to Wittering during the summer. Buckingham Palace Activities included days out to State Rooms, the RAF Benevolent Battlefield Live,Twin Lakes and Fund Headquarters and the Sky Wicksteed Park, and they also Garden as well as a trip to the had two relaxing evenings at theatre to see Wicked. the station cinema. Station Youth Worker Sharon Days closer to home included Pollard said: “The trips were sports days on the station sports successful, gaining positive pitches in the sunshine - nerf feedback from many young wars, arts and crafts, and water people. This year’s summer fights all held in The Place at activities incorporated fun, Number 18. learning, and activeness into The group also held a party many trips. Also, for each child to celebrate 100 years of the with a deployed parent it was a RAF Benevolent Fund. This was good way to distract them from a double celebration as it was the fact their mum or dad was also the 15th anniversary of away.” The trip to London was a huge success.

16 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 Relate to Children Team of the Year Young people from RAF Wittering have been benefiting from a children’s counselling service.

Relate Cambridge was broad range of needs including successful in securing £20,000 depression, exam stress, suicidal from the Armed Forces thoughts, friendship/relationship Covenant to deliver counselling issues, terminal illness and at three schools; Wittering gender identity. Some young Primary School, Arthur Mellows people have very complex, Village College and Stamford chaotic and sometimes stressful Welland Academy. lives, and need help making The service began in February sense of it all.” 2019 and since then Lindy Carter, Lindy supports children and of Relate, has seen 23 children young people and helps them and young people, and delivered to navigate through their issues 171 sessions at the three schools. so that they are better equipped Lindy said: “Every young to deal with current and future person is an individual and needs challenges. It may include a RAF Wittering's Airplay Team, which a unique approach. Sometimes ‘talking’ therapy that can also the issues they wish to work on include a lot of play, drawing/ includes Station personnel, workers and are not those reported by school/ art, puppets, stories, sand tray parents when they are referred to activities, mindfulness, breathing volunteers from the RAF Benevolent the service. I work with the issues exercises and even some yoga presented by the young person. poses. Fund, has won the Airplay Team of the “So far I have addressed a Year award.

Airplay is the RAFBF £24 million throughout the year and support youth support programme for the new Year 7s when they come RAF families, providing a huge up. This peer support element is a range of facilities, equipment huge part of its success. and activities for children and The team also organised a young people. babysitting course, designed According to the citation the and run as a joint project with staff, headed by Station Youth the families centre, the NHS Worker Sharon Pollard, works and Airplay, which gives young Flying Officer Joshua Main in WWI flying gear. hard to develop young people’s people support, guidance plans and ideas by consulting and safety skills not only for a and working closely with them. babysitting environment, but Of notable success was the vital self-support skills if looking involvement of young people after siblings or being in the Conference for in the design of Wittering’s new house on their own after school in playparks, and they also helped particular. organise and fundraise for a two- The team work intuitively and Service Children night residential trip to London. are supportive, they have excelled The team has also been in their delivery to the young In State Schools responsible for the success of the people and community over the 7s transitions project which is past year and have independently aimed at young people from the comprised a comprehensive Personnel from RAF Rhys Thrower at the event. They junior youth club to help them list of 2019/2020 objectives Wittering and Wittering all spoke about the current work make the move to join the senior which shows enthusiasm and Primary School played a key that is being delivered at RAF youth club in the term before development in the year ahead. role at the Service Children Wittering, clubs, services and they move to secondary school, in State Schools Conference partnership work. offering bespoke and intensive PHOTO: RAF Wittering’s AirPlay Team (SCISS). Rhianna produced a film support where necessary. Young – winners of the AirPlay Team of the The event, held at RAF asking young people about people continue to attend Year award. Wyton, was organised by life as a service child and their Vikki Barr, Armed Forces experiences at school, while Covenant Development Mr Thrower spoke about the Officer for and positive collaboration between Peterborough. It was aimed school and station and the at schools and academies challenges that this brings with which support Service pupils children entering and leaving at in this region. different stages. RAF Wittering’s Community Development Officer Mark PHOTO: Key speakers at the Davis was joined by Rhianna Service Children In State Schools Pollard, Chair of Project Tuesday Conference including Wittering’s Youth Forum and Co-Chair of CDO Mark Davis (far right) and RAF Wittering Children & Young Rhianna Pollard (third from the People Board, and Head of right). Wittering Primary School, Mr

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 17 JOHNNIE JOHNSON APPRECIATION SOCIETY Stamford Man Presents Bust Of Fighter Ace To RAF Wittering

Spitfire ace Johnnie Johnson was remembered at RAF Wittering when the Station was presented with a bust of the legendary pilot.

Air Vice-Marshal James Edgar Mess where Station Commander Johnson, nicknamed Johnnie, Gp Capt Jo Lincoln accepted was a famous Royal Air Force the bust from Mr Edwards and pilot and flying ace. The Johnnie fellow group member John Johnson Appreciation Society is Westcombe. dedicated to celebrating his life Wing Commander Nick and preserving the memory of Maxey, Officer Commanding one of Britain’s greatest fighter Operations Wing and President pilots. The group holds an of the Mess Committee at annual lunch at RAF Wittering Wittering, said: “We have had the every year and the silver bust of privilege of hosting Mr Edwards Air Vice Marshal Johnson takes and the Johnnie Johnson pride of place at the table. Appreciation Society for almost John Edwards, of Stamford, is ten years. We will keep the bust the group’s organiser. He first met of Johnnie under our care and it New RAF Pilots Qualify Johnnie Johnson 25 years ago will be our privilege to do so.” and they remained in contact until AVM Johnson’s death in PHOTOS: Top: Johnnie Johnson From Wittering 2001. Mr Edwards personally during the Second World War. paid for the crafting of the (courtesy RAF Historical Branch). The next generation of multi-engine aircraft superbly detailed bust, which Bottom: From left to right: Group was sculpted by Helen Barber of Captain Jo Lincoln, Mr John pilots have passed the Elementary Flying Hatfield University. Edwards, Mr John Westcombe and An informal ceremony took Wing Commander Nick Maxey. Training course at RAF Wittering. place at RAF Wittering Officers’ No 16 Squadron is one of the engine aircraft. Britain’s most historic flying units, Squadron Leader Mark Pickles, predating the formation of the Officer Commanding No 16 Royal Air Force. Squadron, said: “The syllabus The Squadron was formed in carefully guides students towards 1915 as part of the Royal Flying excellence in the air; but this Corps at Saint Omer in northern is a challenging and dynamic France; hence its nickname educational environment, so it’s ‘The Saints’. not an easy course. Today No 16 Squadron trains “Our students are given a solid aspiring RAF pilots. Aircraft foundation; safety underpins handling, navigation, aircraft everything we do. None of our systems and the rules of the air are trainee pilots leave here and all parts of the Elementary Flying jump straight into a Hercules. Training (EFT) syllabus. While at Completing EFT is the beginning RAF Wittering, the trainee pilots of a longer and more took their first solo flights; initially difficult phase.” a brief circuit of the airfield and then longer flights requiring more PHOTO: From left to right: Flying navigation. Officer Kieran D’Lima, Flying Officer Having completed 20 weeks of Steve Barbour, Flying Officer Matt intense training, the student pilots Wright and Flying Officer Georgie from No 16 Squadron will progress Snowdon-Brett. to advanced training on multi-

18 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 19 NEWS RETIREMENT

Group Captain Jo Lincoln and Warrant Officer Karen Pinnion.

Engineer warrant officer Bids Farewell Royal Air Force Engineer Warrant Officer A4 Force Karen Pinnion has retired from the RAF after more than 36 years of unstinting Warrant service to her country. Ms Karen Pinnion was the Ms Pinnion’s first job was as first woman to be appointed a propulsion mechanic and Officer Retires Squadron Warrant Officer at 71 she went on to qualify as a Inspection & Repair Squadron mechanical aircraft technician. at RAF Wittering. 71 Inspection In the 2017 New Year’s Honours Thirty-three years of service came to end & Repair Squadron is an elite List, Warrant Officer Pinnion engineering unit specialising in was awarded an MBE for her when logistics Warrant Officer Si Bervoets the repair of damaged aircraft commitment to promoting STEM. structure, non-destructive testing Ms Pinnion was presented retired from the Royal Air Force. and aircraft weighing. Such with the bowler hat and given is their skill, technicians from a standing ovation as she left the Squadron were asked to Royal Air Force Wittering. She said: Mr Bervoets arrived at the the beginning of civilian life and build the tailfin and floor of the “What a send off! After 36-plus Wittering in May 2018 as escorted from the Station by his Bloodhound supersonic car. years I’ve had an amazing time. the A4 Force Elements and colleagues. Karen joined the Royal Air You have to look for what you’re Headquarters Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Bervoets said: Force in October 1983 and it was good at, embrace it and then take a demanding role, which “It’s the people you work with a natural step. Karen said: “My it forward.” covers operational planning, that make all the difference. I’ve dad was in the RAF, in the airfield Group Captain Jo Lincoln, equipment capability, training been to some amazing places construction branch, and I was Station Commander at RAF and a significant amount of over the years, and worked with always interested in Wittering, said: “Ms Pinnion, you networking between different some brilliant people, but to science.” have been a trailblazer and an parts of the RAF. finish my career here is a real inspiration. Good luck with your Mr Bervoets started his basic blessing.” new adventure and thank you training at RAF Swinderby in RAF Wittering Station on behalf of your trade and January 1986. Logistics has been Commander Group Captain Jo the Royal Air Force.” the whole of his military career, Lincoln said: “It is our privilege to but it has been varied from thank Warrant Officer Bervoets accounts, fuels and lubricants for his long and distinguished to the storage of weapons and service to his country. His logistics IT systems. experience and expertise have During his time with the made him invaluable in so RAF, Warrant Officer Bervoets many ways, not just to me as a has served on operations in newly arrived A4 Force Elements Afghanistan, Cyprus, Iraq and Commander, but to everyone he Belize. In the UK he has been has worked with throughout his posted to RAF Wittering, RAF 33 years in the RAF.” Cottesmore, RAF Odiham and Air Command to name but a few. PHOTO: Warrant Officer Si Bervoets As is traditional for retiring Royal (centre) with Wing Commander Air Force Warrant Officers, Mr Beverley Cartwright (left) and Wing Bervoets was presented with Commander Dan Penter. the black bowler hat to mark Station Warrant Officer Hywel Greening presents Ms Pinnion with her bowler hat.

20 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 21 RAF BENEVOLENT FUND CAMPAIGN HERITAGE CENTRE Join the Search Change a Life To mark its centenary, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is calling on RAF personnel, current and retired, to help find the huge number of RAF veterans who need support but are not coming forward for it.

In 2018 alone, the RAF wristbands called Xylobands to Benevolent Fund spent more create a Human Radar which than £5.8 million supporting began the search for those in serving RAF personnel and need. their families. At RAF Wittering, Air Vice-Marshal David this included three play park Murray, Chief Executive of the refurbishments totalling almost RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “We £200,000 and a further £50,000 know they’re out there. Men and spent on the Airplay youth women who once served, or support scheme. did their National Service in the However, research RAF, and now need our help. No undertaken by the Fund veteran should be left fighting estimates that there are at least alone, whether that be in the face 300,000 members of the RAF of financial, emotional or health Family in need of support but problems. We have life-changing not seeking it, with the majority support available for all members in older age. The charity found of the RAF Family. potential beneficiaries don’t “So, in our centenary year we come forward, or come forward are launching a major campaign too late, due to feelings of pride, to get people to think about who or a belief that ‘someone else they know who may be eligible deserves the support more’. for and in need of our support. In a bid to break down that They may be your friends, barrier, the charity launched a neighbours or relatives. They did new campaign earlier in the year their duty – now we, as a society, with the aim of doubling the must do ours before it’s too late.” number of beneficiaries it helps. If you would like to get The Join the Search. Change involved by fundraising for a Life campaign encourages the the RAF Benevolent Fund, public to help find RAF veterans there are a number of events and their families in need and you can participate in. For put them ‘back on the radar’ so more information, contact they can access support that is your regional fundraiser, Lisa rightfully theirs. Hunt, on 07714171563 or The campaign was launched [email protected]. with a spectacular light display To refer someone to the RAF at RAF Odiham. More than Benevolent Fund, visit 1,000 RAF personnel and their www.rafbf.org or call dependants wore illuminated 0300 102 1919.

Image By Nick Beer at Shutterstock.com Image By

22 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 HERITAGE CENTRE The Alkemade Building Squadron Leader Andy Tagg, Officer in Charge of the Station Heritage Centre, looks at the story of the man whose name is linked to the home of 115 Squadron.

When it was built in 1996 to house the 20(R) A Lancaster B MkII. Squadron Engineering Records and Engineering Training Cells, Building 692 at RAF Wittering was unofficially known as the Wendy House. In 2015 it became the home of 115 Squadron when it was officially renamed the Alkemade Building.

Sergeant Nicholas Alkemade He woke three hours later, lying Further corroboration came from was posted to 115 Squadron as a on the ground, remarkably intact. the wreckage of Werewolf which rear gunner on Avro Lancasters. In addition to burns and cuts, he had crashed 20 miles away. The Alkemade’s aircraft, Lancaster II was suffering only bruising and a metal ripcord handle and cable DS664, christened Werewolf by twisted knee. Being of no further of his parachute were still in their its crew, was one of 811 detailed use, Alkemade discarded his stowage container. to raid Berlin on 24/25 March parachute harness in the snow. After three weeks in hospital 1944. Unable to move, Alkemade he was taken to the Dulag Luft Having dropped their bombs blew his distress whistle. Found prisoner of war transit centre near on target, a Junkers Ju 88 night- by German civilians, he was sent Frankfurt, before being sent to fighter intercepted and attacked to hospital where his burns were Stalag Luft III in Poland. Werewolf. Werewolf’s starboard treated. The next day, the Gestapo Alkemade was one of seven wing and fuselage erupted into interrogated him, demanding to aboard the Lancaster. The flames and the pilot ordered the know what had happened to his Navigator and Wireless Operator crew to bale out. parachute. When he told them also became prisoners of war A Lancaster’s rear turret was he hadn’t used one, they laughed after being thrown clear by the too cramped for the gunner to and accused him of being a spy explosion. Sadly, the Pilot, Flight wear a parachute so it was stored and burying it. He challenged Engineer, Bomb Aimer and Mid- in a canister in the rear fuselage, them to find his discarded Upper Air Gunner, were all killed to be clipped-on to a chest harness – the lift webs would and now lie next to each other in harness when needed. still be in the stowed position. A Hannover War Cemetery. Portrait of Alkemade by fellow prisoner of war. Centring his turret and search of the wood soon bore out Sergeant Nicholas Alkemade opening the doors, Alkemade Alkemade’s story. died in 1987. was greeted by a vision of hell. His parachute was well alight and the flames seared his face and wrists. The heat forced Alkemade to close the turret doors and he was trapped. The fire now breached the rear doors and set the turret’s hydraulic fluid alight. Alkemade later said: “I had the choice of staying with the aircraft or jumping out. If I stayed I would be burned to death – my clothes were already well alight and my face and hands burnt, though at the time I scarcely noticed the pain owing to my high state of excitement. I decided to jump and end it all as quick and clean as I could. I rotated the turret and did a back flip out into the night.” Falling head-first, Alkemade hurtled towards the ground at 120mph. At some point, he lost consciousness and above him, Werewolf exploded. Image By Nick Beer at Shutterstock.com Image By

WINTERWINTER 2019 2019 WITTERING WITTERING VIEW VIEW 23 23 FIGHT AGAINST OVARIAN CANCER

RAF Wittering Officer signs up to fight Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a priority for an RAF Wittering officer who is working with a leading charity to alert those at risk of the disease.

Wing Commander Debs Wright, possibility that she could have Officer Commanding 85 children and triggered an early Expeditionary Logistics Wing, menopause.Wing Commander discovered she was carrying Wright said: “I was in my mid-40s a faulty version of the BRCA2 and although I’d recently got gene only ten days after her married, we’d decided not to wedding last year. The BRCA1 have children. For the first few and BRCA2 genes usually days after the operation, I felt protect against cancers, but like another person, but I am when mutations occur they taking HRT now and my fitness become key risk factors in is nearly back to normal.” breast and ovarian cancer. Although her life won’t be Wing Commander Wright the same again, Debs feels that said: “Learning all this was a she is one of the lucky ones and huge shock. I was at a higher said: “My life has changed, but risk of something I now knew I’m still able to work and keep to be extremely serious. But my fit. My husband and my family counsellor was amazing. I felt have been incredible and my supported, I was never rushed colleagues in the RAF have been and she was always at the other so supportive, but it is not that end of the phone.” way for everyone.” The normal risk of developing Debs is working with a ovarian cancer is around two charity called Target Ovarian percent, while carriers of the Cancer, the UK’s leading ovarian ‘Angelina Jolie Genes’ have a risk cancer charity. The charity works between ten and 25 percent. to improve early diagnosis, Debs chose to have preventative fund life-saving research surgery and her ovaries and and provide much-needed fallopian tubes were removed at support to women with Addenbrookes hospital. ovarian cancer. It was a decision Wing Commander Wright that came easily. is a competing triathlete and In addition to submitting maintains an impressive level her own case study for Target of personal fitness. This fitness Ovarian Cancer to use, Debs is one of the factors to which is planning some fundraising she attributes the speed of her events including a sponsored recovery after the operation. park run. She has already held a Debs said: “The NHS were successful afternoon tea. brilliant, my genetic counsellor Wing Commander Wright and the staff at Addenbrookes concluded: “The more I found hospital were absolutely superb. out about ovarian cancer, As soon as I met the team at the more I was alarmed and Addenbrookes I knew I wanted needed to act, to do something my operation to be done there. to reduce my risk and to tell They said afterwards that if you others. Knowing that there’s a can keep yourself fit, it makes a community out there for me was real difference to your recovery. really powerful for me.” After surgery I was moving Anyone who is interested in around within a few days which joining the fight against ovarian was brilliant!” cancer can find out more by Although surgery has visiting the Target Ovarian reduced the risk of ovarian Cancer website: https://www. cancer, it took away any targetovariancancer.org.uk/

Wing Commander Wright during a triathlon in 2018

24 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 RECYCLING CYCLES

Occasionally there can be About Ovarian other symptoms: Recycling Cycles Cancer • Changes in bowel habit (such as diarrhoea Every year 7,300 women in or constipation) the UK are diagnosed with • Extreme fatigue (feeling ovarian cancer. 4,200 women very tired) lose their lives each year – • Unexplained weight loss that’s 11 women every day. Any bleeding after the Ovarian cancer is often menopause should always diagnosed at a late stage, be investigated by a GP. with two thirds of women diagnosed once the cancer has already spread. Target Ovarian The symptoms of ovarian Cancer cancer are: • Persistent bloating – not Target Ovarian Cancer is the bloating that comes and UK’s leading ovarian cancer goes. charity. They work to improve • Feeling full quickly and/or early diagnosis, fund life- loss of appetite. saving research and provide • Pelvic or abdominal pain. much-needed support to • Urinary symptoms (needing women with ovarian cancer, to wee more urgently or across all four nations of more often). the UK. Bikes loaded onto the truck, ready to be taken to HMP Stocken. From left: Diane Coates, Ray Goodliffe, RAF Wittering’s John Giddings and Stephen Turville.

Old bicycles from RAF Wittering are being recycled by inmates at HMP Stocken in Rutland.

Personnel often keep bikes at Once allocated to an inmate the work as they are a quick and an bicycles are cleaned, completely environmentally friendly way stripped down and the of getting around on a Station. components checked to make As people move on to new sure they are still safe to use. stations, or retire from the Ray Goodliffe said: “The RAF, their bikes are sometimes inmates seem to thoroughly left behind. enjoy it because they are giving Over the years, Wittering has something back to charity. Some Wing Commander Wright interviewed during an exercise in January. accumulated a fair number of of them have actually gone on to bikes, so Stephen Turville and Ray work at bike shops like Halfords.” Goodliffe, instructional officers Once restored, most of the at HMP Stocken, were invited to frames collected from Wittering Wittering to pick up dozens of will be given to Rutland County old and rusted frames. Council and distributed to The My Bike project is a joint disadvantaged individuals initiative between HMP Stocken and families. and Rutland County Council Wing Commander Dan and gives restored bikes free of Penter, Principal Engineer at RAF charge to individuals and families Wittering, said: “This works on in Rutland, as well as to charities so many levels. We are putting and hospices across the country. old bicycles to good use, the The collection was arranged inmates at HMP Stocken are by Diane Coates, Executive working towards a recognised Officer of Support Wing. She said: qualification and people in need “I was listening to Rutland Radio, are getting the benefits. This is they explained the scheme and it a very good community project seemed like a good idea so I got and we’re happy to help.” in touch.” The HMP Stocken inmates are studying for a recognised City & Guilds qualification in cycle mechanics. Image By Aleksei Gurko at Shutterstock.com Image By

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 25 REGULARS COMMUNITY SUPPORT Christmas Community News is coming! Community Support Outreach Coffee Morning As we all know Christmas is a time of celebration and getting together with family and friends – however, sadly this is not always the case for everyone.

Christmas can be a stressful To all those within our time for some struggling community we would like to A Community Support Outreach with debts, bereavement or wish you a peaceful Christmas Coffee Morning is held on the relationship breakdown. If and a Happy New Year! last Thursday of every month. you feel you would benefit If you need SSAFA support, The event takes place in the from some advice and support please contact as follows: community learning centre from regarding any issues that are Tel. 03000 111 723 (24hrs a day); 9.30-10.30am with members of the causing you concern please Email: [email protected]. Community Support Team. contact us by email, phone Or call in to see us in the Come along whether you have or just drop in. Talking really Amenities Block (next to the just arrived, been here forever, if can help and we have lots of Coffee House) on Station. your partner has been deployed or resources at hand that may Opening hours: 8.30am-5pm, you just fancy a chat. The CS Team alleviate some of the stress Monday to Fridays. will include the SCSO, Community you are experiencing. Development Officer, HIVE, SSAFA, Free Advice Clinics at the HIVE Our service is confidential and Paula Finch Padre and RAF Police to name a non-judgemental and outside SSAFA Personal & Families few. Rhi and Emma from Amey will Military Foundation - of the chain of command. Support Worker. also be available to answer any Andy Wain, the Military So, if you have any issues do housing matters. Foundation adviser visits the come in for a chat. We may be HIVE office every Tuesday from 9.30am-2pm, offering able to help resolve them and Child-minding Course hopefully make this Christmas a debt and financial advice, happy time for all. mortgage referrals and Recruiting for ‘SSAFA in-service Are you interested in becoming financial education. volunteers’ continues. registered as a childminder? Sgt Joe Samuels has taken If you would like to have a Solicitors – On the second up the role of volunteer co- rewarding career, be your own boss and fourth Wednesday of every ordinator and anyone needing and love working with children, month, Buckles Solicitors offer further information or wishing to then childminding could be an ideal a free 30-minute appointment. offer their time can contact her choice for you. Community Support Appointments need to be on 01780 416371. and Peterborough City Council booked via the HIVE office. We are always looking for are holding a briefing session on Image By AlexVectorImage By at Shutterstock.com new volunteers and SSAFA offers January 14, 2020 from 5-7pm for Citizens Advice Rutland are training to ensure you are safe in anyone interested in finding out at the CLC+ every Thursday your role and develop your skills. more about the training. To book from 9-10am and then in the Volunteers can offer support a place on the briefing session HIVE office from 10.30am- to those in need in a variety please contact Sophie West, HIVE 12pm, offering advice to the of ways, such as transport to Information Officer on tel. whole Wittering community, medical appointment, grass 01780 417541 or email both Service and Civilian. cutting, helping with light [email protected] housework or just befriending. Anyone requiring support Useful numbers should contact SSAFA for an assessment of their needs. Support Officer - WO Neil Paylor, tel. 01780 417142 or mobile 07976 206569. HIVE Information Officer - Sophie West, tel. 01780 417541 or email [email protected] Community Development Image By Oksana Kuzmina at Shutterstock.com Oksana Image By Officer (CDO) – Mark Davis, tel. 07976 165304. Station Youth Worker - Sharon Pollard on tel. 07908 595236 or email: Sharon.Pollard@ actionforchildren.org.uk. And finally... A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Community Support and Welfare Teams.

26 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 Community News On The Beat with RAF Police Christmas Cheer Over the festive and winter period if any personnel have any security or policing concerns please feel free to see us at the RAF Police Community Support drop-in sessions.

These are held at the can help prevent and deter any Community Learning Centre unwanted guests while away + in Wittering Village, between (this does not include Santa)? 9-9.45am every Thursday. During this seasonal time We wish you all a very Merry when personnel take a well- Christmas and a Happy New earned break, we’d like to remind Year from everyone at the Police everyone when leaving your Flight, RAF Wittering. homes, for either holidays or visiting friends and family, that you keep them secure. Do not leave valuables or sentimental RAF Police can be contacted items in sight for opportunists. on tel. 01780 417087. And should you decide to enjoy Cambridgeshire or a drink or two to unwind, choose Lincolnshire police can the safe option and organise a lift be contacted on 101 or book a taxi. You do not want (non-emergency) or 999 your name on Santa’s naughty list! (emergency). Crime stoppers – Did you know RAF Police conduct 0800 555 111. regular patrols of Wittering and

Have a safe and Merry Christmas

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 27 REGULARS TEA BREAK TIME

TEA BREAK TIME Smileus at Shutterstock.com Image By

TEA BREAK TIME ANSWERS AT THE BOTTOM OF PAGE 30. Spot The Difference Can you spot the 10 differences in these two photographs? Image By Anna Frajtova Anna Image By at Shutterstock.com Image By Diane C Macdonald Diane at Shutterstock.com Image By Table top games Quiz Table Top Games

1. True or false, Monopoly was 7. Snakes and ladders originated in Wordsearch invented by the American feminist India as a teaching tool but what Let’s face it, it’s not really winter without the usual family arguments, Elizabeth Magie? did it teach children? power struggles and tantrums over table top games is it? 2. What is the oldest known board Which of the table top games below is not listed within the grid? game: Senet, backgammon, 8. The weapons in Cluedo include a mahjong or chess? dagger, rope, lead piping, candlestick, revolver, and a M C L U E M L U D S Bunco 3. Mahjong is about 4,000 years old spanner. Which one(s) were not C A T A N U G O R M and was originally played by the part of the original game? Catan Chinese aristocracy. When did the current four player game 9. The cooperative boardgame H S L U D O N C A E Chess emerged from China - was it in the Pandemic was inspired by which E U E A T D O A U L Cluedo 1900s, 1910s, 1920s, or 1930s? real-life disease outbreak: Ebola, Zika, SARS, or Swine Flu? S S C O C O J T G B Dominoes 4. By what name is the field of research Draughts concerning gaming known? 10. A friend’s British game Mansion S S N M N N H M L B of Happiness inspired Milton Ludo 5. True or false, in ancient cultures Bradley to create The Checkered C E U I G I A C U A it was primarily adults who played Game of Life, which in turn Mahjong board games? inspired the creation of N H B U K I M M U R Mancala The Game of Life for the 6. True or false, the International company’s centenary in which A A C L U E D O C C Rummikub Olympic Committee recognises year: 1950, 1960, 1970, 1980? Scrabble chess as a sport? M S T H G U A R D S

28 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 TEA BREAK TIME

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 29 REGULARS

Name: Sgt Darren ‘Pipey’ Pipe Role: FP Trg Flt SNCO Easy Marital Status: Married to Heather with three children. Mince Pies In the Seat 1. What part of your job gives 6. Is there one piece of 10. What food would you you the most satisfaction? criticism that sticks in your choose for your last supper? Interacting with the personnel mind? All you can eat Chinese food, with of Wittering. One of my instructors told me I never-ending ice cream. wouldn’t promote to Sergeant in 2. And the least? 22 years; I proved him wrong by 11. Who do you most admire in You can’t beat a tasty Not deploying on Operations, doing it in eight-and-a-half years. the world? but this pleases the family. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II home-made mince pie 7. What would be your first act and my wife Heather. at Christmas. 3. What is the best advice you as world leader? have ever received? Make all three Services Joint 12. Name four people you Ingredients: Learn to say no. I just don’t and call it the UK Defence Force, would like as a dinner guest – 225g cold butter, diced understand the meaning of it yet. saving the military money and why? 350g plain flour during training. Elvis Presley (The King of Rock 100g golden caster sugar 4. Describe yourself in six ‘n’ Roll), Eric Cantona (The King 280g mincement words? 8. Name your desert island of Football), Alexander the Great 1 egg Passionate, motivated, driven, essentials? (The Great King) and William the Icing sugar, to dust friendly, helpful, athletic. Rifle, body armour and radio for Conqueror (The King of England). Close Air Support. This would Method: 5. What career would you protect 5001 Squadron as they 13. What one piece of music To make the pastry rub the cold, have followed if you had build my shelter and 3 Mobile would you like played at your diced butter into the plain flour, not pursued your current Catering Squadron as they cook funeral? then mix in the golden caster profession? in my kitchen. Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now. sugar and a pinch of salt. Combine I used to work for Nestle the pastry into a big ball – don’t Rowntree making chocolate, 9. How would you change the 14. How would you like to be add liquid – and knead it briefly. so I’d like to think I would have MOD? remembered? The dough will be fairly firm, like progressed to become the next Make Catterick a Phase 1 The guy that wasn’t here for a long shortbread dough. You can use Willy Wonka! establishment for all non- time, but here for a good time. the dough straight away or chill commissioned and Sandhurst for for later. all commissioned personnel. Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6/ fan 180C. The recipe will make 18 mince pies, so line 18 holes of two 12-hole patty tins, by pressing small walnut-sized balls of pastry into each hole. Spoon the mincemeat into the pies. Take slightly smaller balls of pastry than before and pat them out between your hands to make lids, TEA TIME BREAK ANSWERS big enough to cover the pies. Top Quiz Answers: 1. False, but she did invent The Landlord’s Game on which it was based. 2. Senet, which has been found in Egyptian the pies with their lids, pressing tombs dating from 3300BC. 3. 1920s. 4. Ludology. 5. True. 6. True. 7. It explained the effect of good and bad deeds. 8. The lead piping, candlestick, and spanner were later additions. There were 9 original weapons: axe, cudgel, fireplace poker, pistol, dagger, the edges gently together to seal. hypodermic syringe, rope, poison, and unused bomb. 9. SARS. 10. 1960.9. Sting, although the others were also considered 10. True. There is no need to seal with milk or egg as they will stick together Wordsearch missing word: Bunco M C L U E M L U D S on their own. C A T A N U G O R M Beat one small egg and brush H S L U D O N C A E the tops of the pies. Bake for 20 minutes until golden. Leave to cool E U E A T D O A U L in the tin for five minutes, then S S C O C O J T G B remove to a wire rack. To serve, lightly dust with icing sugar. They

S S N M N N H M L B will keep for three to four days in

C E U I G I A C U A an airtight container. N H B U K I M M U R A A C L U E D O C C M S T H G U A R D S

30 WITTERING VIEW WINTER 2019 You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun... A spacious 1 bedroom apartment with shared swimming pool. The apartment is situated on the top floor of a 3 storey block. Quiet location, but only 5 mins walk to the marina and another 5 mins to the town centre.

Self Catering Holiday Apartment • Twin bedroom. • Open plan kitchen & lounge. • The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. • Family sized bathroom. • The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two single beds) PRICES ON and a table to seat four. REQUEST • A TV and DVD STARTING AT • Patio doors open onto the £295 PER WEEK balcony, offering views over the pool and across Lagos. • Ample parking space in front of the building. www.algarve-retreats.com/ Phone Judith on property-to-rent/apartment-meia.htm 01536 711884

WINTER 2019 WITTERING VIEW 31