cott witt

Summer 2011 \\ The official magazine for RAF Wittering and RAF Cottesmore

Farewell To RAF Cottesmore

5131 (Bomb Disposal) Sqn fulfils commitment by providing both IED destroy and IED neutralise teams in Afghanistan

Features : In Brief | Exercise Green Light | Air Power Europe Only £5.99 PIZZA PASTA BUFFET &MON to FRI | 12 to 15 Our lunch time buffet is one of the most popular in Peterborough

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Don’t forget to ask for the loyalty card. cott witt Summer 2011 View The official magazine for RAF Wittering and RAF Cottesmore Editors Foreword \\ Assistant Editor Emma Stacey Group Captain Rich Knighton

I don’t know Well, this is the last Foreword that I will write for the about you but I’m Cott Witt View. I have been posted at short notice really hoping that to the Ministry of Defence in London. Although the posting comes with promotion, I will be very sad to the plethora of leave RAF Wittering and RAF Cottesmore behind. sunny days we’ve 07 In Brief 13 Gate Guard Role For Christine 22 Exercise Green Light been experiencing was asked recently what the best job was The future is, I am afraid, still a little uncertain. that I had had; I said it was this one. It We expect to hear the results of the politicians’ since early April, I has been a pleasure to work with such deliberations about the future of RAF Wittering are a precursor a professional, capable and fun bunch of and RAF Cottesmore around the middle of July. Contents people. RAF Wittering has been a wonderful I am still hopeful that RAF Cottesmore will have to a great home to me over the past 17 months and the a future as an MOD unit, and that RAF Wittering 04 Foreword summer. people here, and in the local community, have will continue to be an active airfield and home been enormously supportive. It was also a to all those units already here. I will keep my 06 In Brief his is partly because it’s amazing great privilege to take over command of RAF fingers crossed! how much of a difference a Cottesmore on 1 April 2011. I have been hugely My successor arrives in June. I wish him and 09 Padres Corner T daily dose of sunshine can impressed by the positive attitude, continued all of you the very best of luck! Thank you. make - everybody seems to feel a professionalism and sheer hard work of those 10 Ex First Step lot more positive - but also because involved in the support and drawdown task. we’re long overdue and I need to do Inevitably I have been reflecting over 13 Gate Guard Role For Christine something about my pasty legs! the past few days about my time here. It is Many people took full advantage remarkable just how much has been thrown 15 Air Power Europe of the double Bank Holiday and the at us since I started in December 2009, on the Station seemed eerily quiet for a day the Secretary of State announced that 18 RAF Cottesmore Closure Parade while, but despite this the features in RAF Cottesmore would close and elements of this issue will give a glimpse of just Joint Force Harrier would move to RAF Wittering. Exercise Green Light how much has really been going on Throughout all the twists and turns of the past 22 behind the scenes. year and a half, the people at RAF Wittering Health & Wellbeing There is plenty to get your teeth into in and RAF Cottesmore have supported me and 24 this summer edition and remember to my predecessor at RAF Cottesmore superbly. A Taste Of Things To Come.... check out our new magazine website We have played a key part in operations in 26 at www.witteringviewonline.co.uk Afghanistan and around the rest of the world. Storm Clouds Gather So fingers crossed that we continue Over the past few weeks the support from the 29 to enjoy the good weather for a little A4 Force to operations in Libya has been truly Armourers Support Op Ellamy while longer but don’t forget to outstanding. Without the hard work of many 29 keep those articles coming in personnel from RAF Wittering and across the for the Autumn issue. A4 Force, the UK could not have conducted 32 Fuels Flight No1 EL Sqn the operations. Despite all of these pressures 34 Hot Seat

you have also managed to keep your sense of 18 RAF Cottesmore Closure Parade

humour during some trying times!

cott witt EDITOR DISTRIBUTION DESIGNED BY Submissions Flt Lt Kerry Shardlow, Tesco Extra Serpentine Green, Morrisons Sherrie Bacarese Summer 2011 \\ The official magazine for RAF Wittering and RAF Cottesmore OC PSF Ext 7478 Stamford, Waitrose Stamford, Families Spar Shop ADVERTISING Please direct all submissions for CottWitt View Magazine to ASSISTANT EDITOR Wittering, Wittering Post Office & Local Doctors Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, FAREWEll To RAF CotteSmoRe Emma Stacey and Dental Surgeries Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL The Editor TEAM PUBLISHED BY Tel: Kayleigh on 01536 526666 Cpl Mel Reynolds Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, [email protected] Flt Lt Kerry Shardlow SAC Sarah Hanson Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL PRINTING [email protected] EDITORIAL DEADLINES Tel: 01536 512624, Lance Print Ltd, Tel: 01332 221440 Deadlines for editorial entries, Fax: 01536 515481 Please try to ensure that images are in .jpeg format and as large as possible. Text should be Apr 25th, Jul 31st and Nov 1st. www.lancepublishing.co.uk

Features : In Brief | Exercise Green Light | Air Power Europe supplied in Microsoft Word .doc format or plain text if possible. E.mail: [email protected]

In Brief

Bomb Disposal Operators’ Long Marathon Walk For Bliss success Up to 15 members of No ard, but rewarding” is how 5131 (Bomb Disposal) Squadron Leader Claire Squadron from RAF “H O’Grady, OC PMS RAF Wittering took part in a Wittering, has described her first London charity walk around the Marathon experience. 20 miles of Rutland Water Claire and her husband Pablo, who is in support of the national based at RAF Leuchars, decided to take on charity BLISS which the challenge to raise money for the Forces provides aid for premature Children’s Trust. And after months of training, babies and their families. the hard work paid off as they completed

the race in just over five hours, raising more he team, organised by Cpl Paul than £1,500 for charity. (Twitch) Twitchell, set off from the Last Cuppa For The Claire said: “Running the London Whitwell car park. Each walker carried T Marathon was a fantastic experience a 10kg Bergen and at a predetermined and while it was one of the hardest things interval was required to don the ‘old style’ Salvation Army we have done, it was definitely the most bomb suit (45 kg) for at least one mile of he Salvation Army Red Shield Defence The Service was held to mark the end of rewarding. We completed it together in a the total walk. The aim was to raise at least Services celebrated its departure the management provided by Red Shield time of 5hrs 8mins and although we missed £2,000 for the charity. from the Wittering Hub Coffee Shop Defence Services run by the Salvation Army. our time target by eight minutes we are Donations to the charity can be T with a Valedictory Service and one last Sidney and Georgina will move onto Thrift Shop Donations putting it down to the heat on the day!” made on line through: http://www. cup of coffee with Service Personnel. The pastures new, but will never forget the Through the generosity of all their friends justgiving.com/the-longest-walk. For service was held on the 28 Mar 11 and led friends they have made at Wittering. They The RAF Wittering Thrift Shop ladies have been and family, Claire and Pablo have to date more information about BLISS visit by Majors Sidney and Georgina Pinches thank everyone for all their support during raised £1,638 for the Forces Children’s Trust, www.bliss.org.uk. at it again! They have raised nearly £2,000 in who have managed the coffee shop and their time at Wittering. support of worthwhile local deserving causes smashing their £1,000 target. The Forces provided pastoral care for nearly two years. Children’s Trust helps the children of parents The Hub was filled with many regulars and charities through the sale of second-hand who have been killed or severely wounded plus the Salvation Army Band and clothes, toys and bric-a-brac. during Service in the Military. friends and well wishers. The singing was Claire added: “We would like to thank all hearty, the speeches were kind, and the he shop located at 10-12 St Georges purchase of several new toys. The Wittering those who have donated and showed us coffee and cake served afterwards were Rd, Wittering, sells a variety of quality Youth Drop-In centre collected a cheque messages of support. In our madness we welcomed by all for the last time. T second-hand items on behalf of for £300 to enable it to purchase a new have entered the ballot for next year, and if The Hub is being taken over by ISS, the members of the community. The majority Xbox 360 with Kinect and games, and SAC successful we will be looking to raise more nominated contractor for the Catering, Retail of items are sold for a minimum fee where Katie Wilson from No 3MC Sqn received money for charity. A few hours of pain are and Leisure Project implemented by the RAF. the seller receives 80% and the shop a cheque for £250 to assist with her work worth it to help people in need!” retains 20% of the income. with the Handicapped Children’s Pilgrim * You can still support Claire and Pablo’s Manager Sam Cooper and all her Trust, which provides holidays of a lifetime efforts by donating at www.justgiving.com/ dedicated, hard-working ladies in the for disabled and handicapped children to claire-pablo. Photo: Finishing Line - Claire Junior Ranks Mess Opened shop, freely give up their time every week Lourdes. And last, but by no means least, and Pablo O’Grady with their London to provide a much-needed and highly- £350 was donated to assist in the setting Marathon medals. Air Vice-Marshal Young Air Vice-Marshal Young later attended Wittering that he has decided to stay on as valued service to the local community. up of a First Responders unit in Wittering visited RAF Wittering to the Flying Start Nursery in Wittering Village COS Spt for the foreseeable future. Maybe Fortunately, over the past 12 months village, the money going towards the officially open the newly built to officially open its family room and sleep it had something to do with the delicious business has been brisk, meaning the purchase of vital life-saving equipment. Junior Ranks Mess and rooms. Although the OIC had been deployed cake that was provided by the chefs of the volunteers are now in a position to donate With the ‘credit crunch’ set to continue the renovated Flying Start at last minute, Pat Beer, Manager to the Nursery Junior Ranks Mess to mark its opening? money to those organisations that have the Thrift Shop could be seen as an ideal Nursery in Wittering village on and Cpl Ashton, who had taken on the role requested the Thrift Shop’s help. place for bargain buying and surplus his last day in post… or was it? as 2IC just two weeks prior to the visit, worked This time around, the Salvation Army selling! Term time opening hours are Mon hard to ensure that the visit went off without collected a cheque for £250 for their Drop- 0900 hrs - 1130hrs, Tue 1800hrs - 2000hrs, ollowing the grand opening of the a hitch. Lyn Doney and Gemma Mahon in centre which provides meals, clothes and Thur 0900hrs - 1130hrs. If you would like Junior Ranks Mess, Air Vice-Marshal attended the event as representatives from a hot shower for some of Peterborough’s to help the ladies continue to do their F Young was given a grand tour of the the RAF Benevolent Fund which had provided homeless men and women. Wittering fantastic work and possibly sell one or new facilities by Flt Lt Mick Knights and FS the money to pay for this tremendous asset. Harriers Junior Football Club received £200 two things on your behalf, why not pop in David Ashmore, who had conveniently lost Although it was to mark his last day in to assist in the purchase of a new line- for coffee sometime soon, you will always his voice just days before, and introduced office, it appears that Air Vice-Marshal marking machine, and £100 went to the receive a very warm welcome. to the personnel key to its opening. Young had such a fantastic time at RAF Wittering Mums & Tots to go towards the

06 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 07 Our independent, award Padres Corner winning running & fitness Awards stores just got even better Ceremony With a brand NEW Peterborough • Breathable clothing designed for store and increased range of runners RAF Wittering Service personnel products and services, including: • Sports Science/VO2 Max testing and civil servants were honoured • Top running shoe brands with a to obtain your optimum training free gait Analysis to minimise the zones at a recent awards ceremony. risk of injury • Yoga and fitness clothing • Full range of athletics spikes • Plentiful parking and late opening mong the awards presented Gp Capt Knighton made the • In-store physiotherapy by the was the Meritorious Service presentations at the ceremony which Fitzwilliam Hospital A Medal, a highly regarded was held at the Officers’ Mess. Our experienced team are fully trained to honour which is bestowed upon individuals for good, faithful, PHOTO: Back row, from left: SAC (T) offer good advice and exceptional customer valuable, and meritorious service, Latchford (5131 (BD) Sqn), Cpl Peters service. Come and see for yourself... with irreproachable character and (5001 Sqn), SAC Rausch (5001 Sqn); Time Out... conduct. The recipient must be Sgt Graham (5131 (BD) Sqn), Cpl Rudd William Penn once said; Gusto Mill (B’hind Beefeater) 4 Fengate East, the rank of substantive sergeant (2 MT Sqn), SAC Heywood (2 MT Sqn), Huntingdon Road, Fengate PE1 5XG or above and have completed 20 Sgt Turner (5001 Sqn), SAC Bishop (2 “Time is what we Cambridge, CB3 0DL years reckonable service; and be a MT Sqn), Sgt Butler (2 MT Sqn), SAC (T) want most, Tel: 01733 891111 Tel: 01223 279191 holder of the Long Service and Good Mason (5131 (BD) Sqn), Cpl Smith (5001 but what we use Conduct Medal. No more than 60 can Sqn), SAC Twyneham (Fire). worst.” be awarded in the RAF on an annual Front row, from left: Cpl Hallcro (5001 basis although the actual number Sqn), SAC Hutchinson (2 MT Sqn), Cpl ne of the mantras of the modern tends to be much lower due to the Riley (PSF), Cpl Wagstaff (RMF), Cpl society, in which we all live, is that high criteria. WO Marshall of LFOS was Hainsworth (IV (R) Sqn), WO Marshall O your level of success is measured the recipient of this medal. (LFOS), Mrs West (Hive), Gp Capt by what you do. This leads to people working Others honours presented included Knighton, Mrs Jones (1 EL Sqn), FS excessively which has knock on effects on Long Service and Good Conduct Tomiczek (5151 (BD) Sqn), POAET(M) their health, relationships and ironically medals, Clasp to Long Service and Osbourne (IV (R) Sqn), SAC Richardson productivity. From an early age we teach Good Conduct, Operation Service (5131 (BD) Sqn), CT Lowe (5131 (BD) our children not to be selfish and to think Medals and AOC Commendations. Sqn), FS Appleby (IV (R) Sqn), SAC of others. It is only possible to give to others Wittering’s Station Commander Landini (2 MT Sqn). when we have looked after ourselves first. A wise man once told me that if our output exceeds our input then our upkeep will be our downfall. We all work in an environment where there are pressures to produce with fewer resources. The country’s deficit is running at numbers I cannot fully comprehend and we in the public sector are feeling the pinch more than most. In times of increased pressure and stress it is not selfish to take time out on a regular basis to recharge your batteries. This may be going to the gym after work or going for a walk to buy the milk for the office. We see in the accounts of Christ’s life that although he had huge demands on his time, he made sure that he could get away from the pressures of life and replenish his batteries. We are human beings and not human doings, so allow yourself time to just be. Go on be selfish every now and then; the Padre says its okay! Blessings, Padre Paul Collins

08 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 09 the questioner or did he just look bemused. For some 20 miles we cycled along a particular bad route and road that never seemed to end, it was long, open to the elements and busy with motorists Ex First Step who obviously could not see our Hi-Visibility vests, or were they surprised that someone Exercise First Step is a four-day Day 1: The first day consisted of admin dare cycle along this particular stretch of and theory lessons, Weapon Handling Tests road. After a short hydration period at another package that has been carefully put WHTPs), map reading and a few other field village hostelry we arrived at our second together to enable to A4 Force to skills lessons. campsite, with 120 miles under our belts. Day 2: Started at the station armoury, Again tents up, compo in, wash and brush up maintain its Core Skills Level of field after weapon issue and kit checks, troops it was time for debrief and tomorrows plans at training as a deployable force. This boarded the bus for Yardley Chase Training the local bar (on site thank god as my knees Area in Northamptonshire. On arrival at were killing me). After just two beers it was package also has the option of being Yardley Chase troops debussed then had bedtime again. run as individual one-day packages. It a short march with Combat Equipment Day Three – 0645hrs. A good Marching Order (CEMO) onto the training Military Provost Guard early start today and with our injured team was held 11-14 April. area. The next 24 hours were spent under mate joining us for the last push we cycled on canvas. Lessons for the day consisted of with new zest as we knew the end was within tent building, a day and night navigation Service RAF Wittering sight. I had informed the team that there was exercise and more basic field skills, feeding one cheeky little hill on the route and here it for the first 24 hours was supplied by the Force Development Activity was with the backdrop of Belvoir castle on the 3MCS Directing Staff (DS) course. horizon. It must be a 1:5 or 10 and goes on Day 3: After good breakfast from 3 MCs, The two things as a smiles were broad and the banter was good for approx a mile. I was not the flavour of the tents where packed away. This was followed leader you do not want along the way and all seemed to be enjoying month when all reached the top. It was literally by lessons on operational ration pack to hear at the start of a themselves (or were those smiles just big all down hill from here and we quickly reduced cooking and how to build a bivvie. Troops 150 mile cycle ride. grimaces). Good progress was made during the miles to the finish. After our final photo stop then moved into a harbour area which A cyclist stating the day, with a refreshment stop at a good just outside Oakham we cycled into the finish was to be their home for the next 24 hours. village public house, purely medicinal and area and had the obligatory photo taken, During the rest of the day more basic field “I have never ridden for hydration reasons; we got to our campsite many handshakes and congratulations later lessons, target indication, camouflage & a bike before” and a around 1500hrs. After setting up our tents, and we got in our vehicle and headed back to RAF concealment, with an afternoon spent safety / admin driver enjoying the delights of fresh cooked compo Wittering. After sorting out all kit and debrief on pairs fire and manoeuvre and patrol stating that he we had a power nap. We then made our way we went our separate ways, some walking formations. After a hearty evening meal cannot read a map. to the local hostelry for a team debrief and strangely different to when we started. Not to (compo), the course then conducted a low plans for day 2. Believe me after 50 miles on the worry we were back to work the next day. level patrol in order to help 3MCs with the DS he MPGS Platoon based at RAF Wittering road it did not take long before we returned to The overall impression I got, and the feedback course. Night routine then commenced. carried out an FDA during 2 – 4 April 2011 our tents for some well earned sleep. from participants was that all enjoyed the Day 4: After the early rise field admin was consisting of a 150-mile cycle along the Day Two – 0630hrs. Again an early experience and learnt things about not only T themselves but each other, which was the conducted (washing, breakfast and so on), Viking Way (Humber Bridge to Oakham) over start was planned and after getting an ear intention along with showing their skills, and to kit was all packed up and the harbour area a three-day period. The event was organised bashing from one of the cyclists that there was have a good bonding session amongst the cleared. While waiting for transport everyone to allow soldiers the opportunity to show their no plugs for her straighteners we headed off Platoon. started cleaning their weapons. The coach attributes of leadership and communication, into the cold but sunny horizon. After a quick map reading and ultimately to work together My final question to all was “I take it you will all arrived and the course returned to Wittering. photo stop at Woodhall Spa war memorial we as a team outside the confines of the work be volunteering again next year?” to which it Once back at Wittering all the weapons then entered the most scenic part of the route, place environment. The following is a short was met with growls and much snarling. I took were returned and the troops dispersed for 18-mile cycle along the river Witham and High diary of the events: that as a resounding yes. some well earned rest. Dyke towards Lincoln. It was along this part that A mention for the hard working team, Sgt Gary Special thanks go to Cpl Hammond and Day One – 0600hrs. An early start one of the team’s backside had had enough (old man) Jones LCpl’s Hamish (Beetroot Goldie from RAF Cott FP Flt for their support. was planned to allow time to travel to the and needed to rest the remainder of the day. head) Macinnes, Michelle (Straighteners) Humber Bridge and start the event. After The remainder cycled on, with the walking Fry, Glen (Speedy) Dellow, Pte Pat (Satnav) arriving at the start the two comments above wounded meeting the safety driver at end of Sanaghan, the driver. Remember: To go down a hill you normally have to climb one – even in were presented to me, a little late I hear you cycle path. We were looking forward to a BIG Lincolnshire. Sgt Gary Jones say, we managed to overcome both minor bag of chips at our rendezvous point at RAF problems with a little coaching and map Waddington, unfortunately we had forgotten reading databurst. After the obligatory photo that chip shops do not open on Sundays, this opportunity at the bridge we started the bike somewhat deflated our motivation, luckily ride. It was plain to see that the target of 70 there was a supermarket on hand. While mile (we planned to get ahead for day two) having a lunch break I was presented with per day was not going to be achieved and the question “I thought Lincolnshire was flat we settled to complete the 50 mile to our first with no hills?”, “It is,” I replied. “What we have campsite. The weather could not have been encountered so far are not hills but a minor better, sunny, and mild with a slight wind. The bump in the road”. This seemed to pacify

10 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Wittering Witt View View \\ \\ Summer Spring 2009 2011 11 Gate Guard Role for Christine The most eagle-eyed among you may well It’s BBQ Season have noticed RAF Wittering’s Gate Guard has undergone a bit of a transformation. Don’t Drink And Drive he original Harrier GR3 that was guarding our gates has been ost of us are looking forward to T replaced with a GR9. And not just the summer; long light nights, any GR9, but an aircraft that thanks to a Mgreat weather (we hope) and colourful history, became ‘affectionately’ of course the obligatory BBQs and parties. known as Christine, after the car in the Drinks are flowing, food is great and the horror movie. company even better. Everyone is having Sqn Ldr Pete Banks explained: “The a great time. You planned to only have GR3 was no longer representative of soft drinks and then drive home, but as we what was going on at the Station so it know, no plan survives the first contact and has been replaced with a GR9. This new you are now happily enjoying a cold beer. aircraft is legendary with a long and Remember, when you drink alcohol in the very eventful history. It was frequently home, you may be drinking in much larger going wrong at every inopportune quantities than you would in the pub, moment. In fact it spent more time in particularly if you are drinking spirits. the hangar being repaired than any Any amount of alcohol affects your other aircraft.” ability to drive - and there is no foolproof Christine indeed has a colourful way of drinking and staying under the past. She fell off her jacks at one point limit. Alcohol affects everybody’s driving while undergoing repair and even for the worse. It creates a feeling of closed her undercarriage doors on one overconfidence, makes judging distance poor chap’s head, but in addition to and speed more difficult and slows your misbehaving she was also damaged reactions so it takes longer to stop. during a Taliban attack in 2006 and had to be flown home on the back of Did You Know a C17. • 17 per cent of road fatalities in 2009 The GR3 is now in the old 4(R) Sqn were caused by drink driving hangar prior to forming part of the • Tolerance to alcohol depends on a Station SD centre in No 3 hangar. combination of factors: weight, age, gender, stress and recent food consumption • You can be charged with a drink driving related offence even if you are not over the limit

Time Is The Only Way To Get Alcohol Out Of Your System You could still be over the legal limit many hours after your last drink, even if it’s the ‘morning after’. Sleep, coffee and cold showers don’t help to sober you up. The basic principle and one that will not be the same for all is that 1 Unit of Alcohol will take at least one hour to dissipate from your body. ‘Don’t Drink and Drive, Get a Cab’ For further information contact the 2MT Sqn Road Safety Team can be contacted on Ext 7114.

2012 Cott Wittering Witt View View \\ \\ Summer Summer 20112008 Cott Wittering Witt View View \\ \\ Summer Spring 2009 2011 13 AIR POWER EUROPE A Force Development Staff Ride The Air power Europe former Battlefield, he could see the memorial and the Arnhem Bridge - the bridge that the Allies failed know that he was remembered. On the memorial to capture during Operation MARKET GARDEN. In Staff Ride was a week-long is the name of every missing Allied Soldier, and if total, there were 15,000-17,000 casualties during trip to France and Holland their remains are ever found and identified, the Operation MARKET GARDEN, another sobering in order to consolidate our name is removed and the remains are given a statistic. As most of you will know, this battle was burial. One of our team, Rachel Parker, took a made into the film “A Bridge too Far”. We watched basic understanding of Air moment to remember her late husband’s Great this old classic on the way there to really get in Power from the creation Grandfather, whose name is on the Thiepval the mood. of the RAF through to the memorial – a poignant moment that brought In the evening we conducted our own Memorial home the sacrifice of our predecessors and the Service and Wreath Laying at the Airborne Second World War. It was respect that is owed them. Cemetery in Oosterbeek - our tribute to those who hoped that by the end of Day 3 – We began today with a visit to Amiens made the ultimate sacrifice and a fitting end to the week we would better Prison to discuss Op JERICHO - a precision the week’s events. We then went back to the hotel bombing raid by Mosquitoes to free French for a debrief and a formal dinner at the Airborne understand how the Air Resistance Prisoners, and a visit to the cemetery Restaurant in Schoonerd – an old Dressing Station Power lessons learnt from where Gp Capt P C Pickard, VC, who was killed from World War 2. on the mission, is buried. It was again a touching Day 5 - We boarded the bus on the Friday to the past could be applied to start to the day. come back home, very moved by the magnitude the present and the future. Day 4 - Operation MARKET GARDEN was the of the horror and sacrifice we had learned theme today. In the morning we went to the about. We also felt honoured to have had the nother important area that the Staff Ride Drop Zones and Landing Zones in and around privilege to stand in the places where such acts hoped to develop was the progression Arnhem and discussed the risk factors, the tactics of selflessness, bravery and endurance had been Aof our Service Ethos, while our individual and the success or otherwise of Operation carried out. We all felt a great sense of pride to call skills in public speaking were also to receive some MARKET GARDEN - in particular the job given to ourselves ‘serving’ members of the British Military, development. The trip, of course, included a dash the Airborne Forces tasked with the capture and and to be wearing the same uniform as those of morale! holding of the Arnhem Bridge. The Drop Zone who have gone before. It was a sound reminder Day 1 - At St Omer we discovered the origins of was a long way from the objective and the size of why we exist as the military, what we do, and the RAF and found that it had been the busiest of the task was not lost on us. We discussed how how important it is, and I have no doubt that the aerodrome of the time and an engineering we would conduct an operation like that today, Staff Ride has made us better military operators. and logistical hub for the air operations being and what ability to deliver parachutists had been On behalf of all the personnel involved, I’d like to mounted. Although the modern-day RAF is a lot retained by the RAF of today. thank our own training staff from TDF as well as the smaller, we found that the operational support We then visited the crash site of Flt Lt D S A Lord, illustrious SME historian, Dr ‘H’ Tuck. And, last but principles that were developed at St Omer in VC. He was dropping supplies to the troops on by no means least, our driver – who provided so 1916 still apply in Kandahar today. It was also the ground, and despite his Dakota being hit and much humour throughout! during WW1 that Air Power emerged as such having an engine on fire, he conducted two runs SAC(T) Natasha Verrall-Bhasin an important aspect of Warfare and that an Air of resupply drops before ordering his crew to bail Force would be formed in its own right; the RAF out seconds before the aircraft crashed. Only being, of course, the first Air Force anywhere in the the navigator, Flt Lt H King, survived, becoming world. We then visited the “La Coupole” museum, a prisoner of war. It was only on his release in to look at Hitler’s ‘wonder weapons’ and discuss mid 1945 that the story of Flt Lt Lord’s action was technology in Warfare. known, and he was awarded a posthumous Day 2 – After an eventful start to the day and Victoria Cross. eventually on the road, we visited the ‘Lochnagar’ The day was broken up with a bit of lunch in Crater and Thiepval. The memorial at Thiepval Oosterbeek where we were held up again – this was built on a hill so that it can be seen from time due to some shopping being conducted! I every corner of the Somme Battlefield. It was am ashamed to say, not by the boys....anyway, off put there so that wherever a Soldier was on the to the Hartenstein Museum in the afternoon, and

14 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 15 8 Church Street, Rutland, Leicestershire, LE15 6AA FordsFords 01572 722654 www.fordsofoakham.co.uk ofof OakhamOakham

We stock Musto, Kapalua and Joules in our new ladies wear department. We also have Menswear, China & Gifts, Housewares and Toys on the ground floor with Linens, Soft Furnishings, Ladies wear, Lingerie, Beds and Luggage on the first floor.

16 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 17 the JTAC’s, having two jets to play with for two our Army colleagues has allowed 800 NAS to RAF COTTESMORE xercise Harding Flame is a bi-annual hours at a time, three times a day and once reach a new level of Air Land Integration with a deployment by the Harrier OCU to RAF at night, both equipped with Sniper targeting much better understanding of what is required Akrotiri where the student pilots can finish pods, allowed them to get more controls from from the Sqn to support ground ops. Etheir training by utilising the perfect weather one mission than many had seen during a full It has been a good reminder to the Army that and easily accessible weapons range. For this day on the range in the UK. training the troops who are about to deploy to deployment it was decided that rather than just The excellent facilities at RAF Akrotiri, Afghanistan is, and will remain a top priority for CLOSURE the two twin seat aircraft normally deployed, including a mock Afghan village allowed six the Harrier Force and 800 NAS. 800 NAS would deploy as a full Sqn, and for four JTAC’s to achieve Combat Ready Status before Cdr Lindsay summed up: “Cyprus has weeks instead of just the two2. deploying on Op Herrick, 50 ‘live’ controls provided an ideal opportunity for 800 NAS to Despite the fact that the Harrier Force is no were achieved using CRV-7 rockets and an train alongside Army JTACs in often arduous longer in Afghanistan, it would be very wrong to incredible 356 ‘dry’ controls in just two weeks. but realistic surroundings. The friendships and PARADE think that they were not contributing to the war That is a staggering amount compared to respect we have established for each other will effort. In fact since coming home it has been exercises in the UK. A huge advantage of 800 pay absolute dividends in any future conflict, RAF Cottesmore formally closed as the main focus of Harrier Force flying to provide NAS and the JTAC’s operating from the same in whichever part of the world it occurs. As as much Close Air Support (CAS) training to the base, building and even accommodation was our motto says, ‘Never Unprepared’; this is an an independent RAF Station on 31 deploying army brigades as possible. It was the fact that face to face briefs and debriefs ethos ingrained into every pilot, engineer and decided to offer the Army the chance to send with the JTAC’s happened for every mission. maintainer. We will be ready for whatever an March. To commemorate this historic JTAC’s to Cyprus where 800 NAS would provide This simply doesn’t happen in the UK due to uncertain future may hold.” day and night CAS daily for four weeks, as well the distances involved from Cottesmore to the event, a closure parade of 120 RN as achieving other qualifications for its pilots. ranges. It allowed for a huge cross pollination and RAF personnel was held at RAF 800 Naval Air Squadron - Cyprus Naturally the Army jumped at the chance of of techniques and experiences and helped to having a dedicated Naval Harrier Sqn at their further enhance Air Land Integration between Cottesmore, which ended with the RAF disposal. the Royal Navy and the Army. Cdr David ‘Tinsel’ Lindsay, CO 800 Naval Air Captain Disney of the Light Dragoons said: Ensign being lowered. Squadron said: “This is what the Harrier does “The training has been of spectacular value... best; versatile and deployable, we can be the ability to have access to instant debriefs Exercise airborne, giving direct support to the troops has proved to be key. It has been great to work he AOC 22 Gp, Air Vice-Marshal Mark The day was a sad one for RAF Cottesmore, on the ground faster than most other aircraft. alongside the Navy.” Green, was the Reviewing Officer. the previous home of Joint Force Harrier Five years of Operations in Afghanistan have With the jets loving the hot climate and Other senior guests included The Duke and its associated Squadrons. The honed our skills to the point where we are able remaining serviceable, the flying rate was T & Duchess of Rutland, The Lord Lieutenant parades through Cottesmore and Oakham to give some of the best training and support extremely high; however, this didn’t mean to our Army from one of the best CAS aircraft there wasn’t time for plenty of fun and games of Rutland, Alan Duncan MP and a number were well supported by both communities, in the world. But we cannot be complacent; to be had. The usual beach party BBQ’s were of serving and retired officers of one-star who turned out in the hundreds to wish the this detachment has provided a unique intermixed with sea fishing, go-karting and rank and above. servicemen and women, both past and Harding opportunity for us to work directly alongside our a few fun days spent with B Company, 2nd This was immediately followed by a present, who have worked in the area the Army colleagues, discussing tactics and each Battalion Royal Anglicans. These fine soldiers others performance on a daily basis. With this brought what can only be described as a march through Cottesmore village and a very best. relationship and friendship now established, we plethora of equipment for the sailors to fire on subsequent parade and church service in On 1 April, Cottesmore became a satellite can continue to develop this truly formidable the local range. Despite the scary prospect Oakham. The celebrations concluded with of RAF Wittering, pending its hand-over to partnership between warriors in the air and on of Matelots with machine guns on the range, a reception in Oakham Museum. Defence estates on 31 Mar 2012. Flame the ground.” no one was killed and a healthy respect from September 2010 and 800 NAS find themselves in The main problem with Close Air Support the sailors towards the soldiers was ensured by missions in the UK is the transit time to and from watching the fire support group lay down a Cyprus at RAF Akrotiri for four weeks! Terrible you cry; the ranges, where the exercises take place staggering amount of fire-power, then running and the notoriously fickle UK weather. Not so in the midday Cyprus sun carrying and setting what a waste of money, WAFU’s sunning themselves in Cyprus where 800 NAS were able to fly 2- up a Javelin missile system. hour missions in the overhead of RAF Akrotiri in Despite it sounding like this was another perfect weather. This allowed unparalleled levels excuse for the WAFU’s to have a good time, the again. But fear not 800 NAS are actually supporting of training to be achieved by both the JTAC’s honest truth is that this kind of dedicated CAS and the pilots on 800 NAS, many of whom had training just isn’t available to Army brigades the war effort in Afghanistan. not flown on Operations in Afghanistan. For in the UK. The chance to operate alongside

18 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Wittering Witt View View \\ \\ SummerSpring 2009 2011 19 No 1 EL Sqn Raise Funds for Children’s Retreat

A children and financial resources are available at the time. The garden at the Care Centre is New Zealand Recognises young adults not wheelchair-friendly, so No 1 EL Sqn short break personnel decided to raise funds towards RAF Officer’s changing this so that the children can service receives a enjoy some fresh air on a day-to-day Bravery basis. Something we all take for granted. Wittering officer who risked his own life to helping hand from save an individual trapped in a burning The Squadron managed to raise Aaircraft has been awarded the New RAF personnel. £2,000 last year by organising events Zealand Bravery Decoration (NZBD). such as cake mornings, quizzes and Sqn Ldr Anthony Millsom, of No 1 RAF Force wimming with sharks, an Easter various other fund raising activities. Cpl Protection Wing, has been presented with the Egg Hunt and a charity bike ride Steve Tesseyman managed to raise £105 honour, equivalent to UK’s Queen’s Gallantry Medal, in recognition of his actions after a are just a few of the events held by by swimming with sharks at ‘Planet Arena’ S small aircraft crashed at Whenuapai Air Base personnel from No 1 EL Sqn to raise funds in Peterborough. SAC Clayton held an in April 2008, while he was serving as a Wing for a children’s retreat ward. Easter Egg Hunt for the Squadron and Commander in the New Zealand Air Force. The Otter’s Retreat is located within raised an impressive £256. The most Tony was at home on the air base when he the recently opened City Care Centre in successful event though was a charity 56- heard the sound of a small aircraft as it nose- dived into the ground from a low altitude. He Peterborough which currently receives mile bike ride around Rutland, organised immediately ran from his house towards the no funding for social activity equipment, by WO Owen, involving 21 Sqn members, crash site, which was inside the perimeter of the costs or staffing. which raised a staggering £1,300. Air Base. As he approached the crumpled aircraft The main aim of the ward is to provide Throughout 2010, No1 EL Sqn Charities he saw it engulfed in flames. The surrounding short breaks in a safe, nurturing and Committee, supported by Squadron grass, which extended to the concrete base of a nearby building used to store highly inflammable stimulating environment for children and personnel, has done a fantastic job liquid, was also burning. young adults with a profound multiple raising £2,000 for local charities. Despite Grabbing a nearby fire hose he ran to the disability and complex medical/health all the uncertainty behind individual aircraft and quickly realised that one of its care needs. In addition it also helps careers and the long term future of RAF occupants was lying face down half out of the the families by providing carer liaison Wittering, spirits within No1 EL Sqn have plane. He called out to the accident victim, but did not receive a response. Despite the risk to workers to be on hand with advice or not been dampened when it comes to himself, he attempted to get the occupant out of just a friendly ear. The facility creates helping those in need. the aircraft, but was initially beaten back by the an environment where the parents Planning for fund-raising for 2011 is flames and heat. He then made another attempt are happy to leave their child for short already well advanced and if all activities and managed to grab the victim’s belt and pull periods of time allowing them to take go accordingly, this year promises to be him out and away from the aircraft. Others had now arrived at the scene and a well earned break or focus on other as good as the last. were shouting warnings. The fire had increased in children in the family. Fantastic effort No 1 EL Sqn personnel, intensity and was getting ever closer to the liquid A number of facilities within the City keep up the good work. oxygen store, heightening the risk of an explosion Care Centre are dependant on what SAC Vicky Clayton so Tony had no option but to retire to safety. In attempting to rescue the occupant of the aircraft, he suffered burns and blisters to both hands and flash burns to the side of his face. He acted selflessly, and with great courage and persistence, not knowing if the person he was attempting to rescue was alive or dead. All the time, he was at risk from the surrounding fire and a possible explosion. Tony, who lives with his family in Grantham, served in the RAF Regiment from 1985 to 1996, before transferring to the RNZAF that year. He served with the RNZAF, reaching the rank of Wing Commander, until 2009, when he returned to the United Kingdom to rejoin RAF Regiment. He said: “This honour came as a shock and it is extremely humbling to be singled out for this recognition. Events that day involved a lot of people and many reacted very quickly as first responders. This award is also for all those who responded and had to deal with the aftermath of this sad incident.”

20 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 21 eggs. They lay up to 100 at a time. This was the Hospital after an unfortunate injection a highlight for everyone and an amazing and the all-clear. With everyone back to full once in a lifetime experience. health we headed back to accommodation One of the walks tasked was ‘Break Neck for an early night. Valley’ - and it was exactly what it said on Up Green Mountain again was the order the tin. With steep descents down the side of the day but this time straight to the top of Green Mountain it was once again a up to Dew Pond where we’d hoped to see completely different challenge and showed land crabs coming down the mountain, how diverse the Island’s scenery was. With a but instead came across a perverse few people sore from Day One, passing the pigeon that only SAC Ellis claimed to see. Aloe Vera plants was a good opportunity A difficult climb inundated with bamboo to be at one with nature and, as Cpl Milne and Hibiscus flowers we reached the top in declared ‘I don’t like being pink, I look like a good spirits. We found a crocodile in Dew baby gerbil’, it was a great opportunity to use Pond (albeit a plastic one)! Another fun the plant and soothe everyone’s sunburn. day had by all. Although the walk was well planned, the path A few more walks involved various seemed to disappear into the overgrowth challenges. With steep descents and having and at this point the machetes came out. to get roped up, it was a difficult challenge, EXERCISE SAC Hardman was in his element. Lessons especially for those afraid of heights! The were learnt by some who were struggling, terrain was again different and extremely which highlighted that a good breakfast was challenging, as we had to be roped up due to Green Light needed every morning! crumbling rocks on a steep decline. However, During conservation work which involved we reached the summit and even saw a land On Ascension Island clearing the paths with machetes our Exped crab at the top! In the afternoon we took on a leader Flt Lt Gilbert suffered serious discomfort challenge of completing a Level 5 of 5 difficulty from insect bites, this progressed throughout rating mountain. Known as the White Horse, Personnel from 1 ELS and future 1 EL the day and so SAC Hardman decided welfare this was the most challenging mountain of Squadron members departed from Brize was more important than conservation and all with a peak of 2000Ft. Those that reached sent half of the group to George Town Hospital the summit felt a great sense of achievement Norton on a cold and foggy morning in where the correct treatment could be given. and the adrenaline was pumping, especially February. The aim of the exercise was to That night after tea the group headed to the when they realised what goes up must come instil and develop leadership qualities within Fort Museum in George Town for a chance to down! Using the ropes on the way down built see the history of the Island and the old Fort. up a great sense of team building and trust the Junior Ranks, while hill walking in an Later that evening it was on to the Conservation and once everyone was back down safely the arduous adventurous training environment. centre where Flt Lt Gilbert had returned from objective had been met! That night was Flt Lt O’Neill’s birthday and, as the usual suspects n arrival at Ascension Island the sun emerge. Namely Cpl Rudy ‘Karaoke’ Aherne, had been fishing the night before (SAC Allen was shining and the temperature SAC Pete ‘random wildlife man’ Ellis, and and SAC Gilhespy) and additional food was O was soaring at 30 degrees. After SAC Mike ‘bum crack’ Gilhespy. With idyllic collected from the mess, we set out to Turtle a quick ops brief and a tour of the Island views along the walks including volcanic Shell beach for a barbecue and a celebratory we settled into our rooms looking forward to rock, jungle terrain, forests and white sand drink while watching the turtles come ashore. what was to come. beaches, the walk was extremely diverse After cleaning up we headed back to the bar With everyone taking it in turns to take a and enjoyed by all. where we had cake and a nightcap. Then it lead each day, A/Cpl Richardson was first. Over the coming days, walks were was off to bed after another successful day. After a ‘mega’ breakfast, and SAC Roberts organised for many of the island’s popular Personal thanks to SAC Gilhesby for his ear declaring his love of sausages, the objective mountain trails including Lady Hill, Sisters infection, as we had a designated driver. was to drive part way up Green Mountain to Peak and Red Hill, these in particular were The final day started with a visit to the Red Lion (which unfortunately was no longer very similar to the planet Mars! Most of the islands Lava Caves, followed by a trip to one of a pub). The roads were treacherous and as walks were planned to start early to avoid the beaches which had a fumarole. This was Flt Lt O’Neill was driving one of the land rovers walking in the fierce midday sun. To achieve quite remarkable to see as well, as tropical fish, it was a great opportunity for the others to this, people were tasked each day to make crabs, killer waves and, as always, fantastic learn what not to do (stalling on a blind sure everyone was up and ready! Most days scenery. Those that were leaving early packed bend). The scenery was breathtaking, but ended with a trip to the beach at English that afternoon and then everyone went to the some quickly regretted wearing shorts due to bay to spend time relaxing in the warm sea beach, followed by dinner. At the volcano the overgrown vegetation. On this afternoon and soaking up some vitamin D, or a spot of club just as the sun was setting, farewells there had been a little shower, as we were fishing was the preferred remedy of relaxation were said and the departing departed. A there in the rainy season. It was at this point for some. fantastic Expedition had by all and thoroughly that Cpl Aherne commented ‘The rocks are One of the expedition’s many highlights recommended. slippy because of that wet rain’! This led to included a visit to the conservation centre in machetes being ordered to be picked up the Georgetown, after a brief video on the history Personnel Who Participated Were: next day. Without these, our walks would have of the turtles that periodically inhabited the Flt Lt Gilbert, Flt Lt O’Neill, Sgt Lewis, Cpl been much more difficult to achieve. Within a island. It was on this evening we went down Aherne, Cpl Milne, A/Cpl Richardson, SAC couple of hours the banter had started and to English Bay to watch the turtles come Whittick, SAC Roberts, SAC Gilhesby, SAC Ellis, the characters among the group began to ashore just as it was getting dark and lay their SAC Hardman and SAC Allan.

22 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Wittering Witt View View \\ \\ Summer Spring 2009 2011 23 HEALTH & WELLBEING THE Vet in SMEAR Stamford TEST Clear Ridge Veterinary Surgery Resolve your animal’s problem. Make use of our surgical expertise/experience. From neutering to complex hernia repairs and emergency surgery. Call us to discuss your case.

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24 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Wittering Witt View View \\ \\Summer Spring 20092011 25 A Taste Of ThingsTo Come… RAF Wittering

Introducing the new RAF Super Catering, “Why would I go to Stamford for a coffee when I Summer Activities 2011 Clinic Retail and Leisure Contract at RAF Wittering can get coffee this good in the Coffee Shop on Station?” and Mitch just wanted another cup, For children 5-12 Times On 1 June, ISS Defence will take responsibility for all catering, retail and leisure it was that good! The coffee is Fairtrade so we (CRL) services at RAF Wittering under the RAF’s Super CRL contract which know that the feel good factor goes right back Dates Daily Activities Legal Clinic sees all these services being brought under a single management structure to the coffee growing communities. 8th – 12th August Arts and Crafts 8th June 1000-1300 rather than the various different arrangements that currently exist. In the Bowl, we will create a cafe lounge bar. 15th-19th August Themed Days 22nd June 1000-1300 During the day, this will provide food and great 22nd-26th August Sports Challenges 13th July 1000-1300 What will this actually mean for Wittering? very much as they are now. Elsewhere, you tasting coffee under our real bean banner. This Times Team challenges 27th July 1000-1300 Hopefully, on Day One you will notice little will start to see ISS’ influence in the choice and will continue into the evening providing a real 0830 – 1730 Rounders change to the service that Wittering has availability of food and drink across the Station. alternative to the Messes but with a change in Drop-off up to 1000 Dodgeball CSA Clinic enjoyed for many years from the Messes, Shops The quality will continue to be of the highest ambience to a more traditional bar feel - without Pick up from 1600 Basketball Visits on a monthly basis as required and Clubs. However, behind the scenes there standard as we pride ourselves on selecting the cost of a taxi home. For those of you who Price Cricket are a lot of changes taking place and most the healthiest possible ingredients, making are used to travelling around the RAF, you will Approx £80 per child per week, Reading/ writing Citizens Advice Debt find that bar prices will be the same regardless notably, civil servants working within these use of British seasonal fruit and vegetables (subsidised) and Benefits Advisers where possible and reducing the quantities of of location. areas and Aramark staff from the Shops and Places Limited Vivacity is committed to providing Debt Adviser on the last Tuesday of Clubs will have had the opportunity to transfer added sugar and salt. We believe our plans It doesn’t stop there. ISS is committed to Venue families with complete peace of mind every month from 1000-1600 to ISS Defence under TUPE arrangements. are complementary in nature and our venues working in partnership with the RAF. The business Community Centre, Welland Road, RAF while giving children a great holiday Benefits Adviser first/second Monday Their uniforms will change on Day One and will change during the course of the day and model is structured so that the gainshare will see Wittering experience. of the month 1000-1600 they will have started to receive training on the week catering for the whole community - profits generated at Wittering being returned to the ISS Way and many of the new processes people will choose to meet their friends for coffee Wittering. There will also be a donation from the All staff are CRB checked To book an appointment call in the morning; grab a quick bite for lunch; take sale of some freshly made products and use of and equipment that will be put in place to 01780 783838 ext 7541 support this contract. But to all intents and the children out for a teatime treat after school; Forces Finance cash machines to RAF charities. purposes, they will be carrying on doing their enjoy a freshly prepared meal in the early A customer loyalty card will be launched in www.vivacity-peterborough.com jobs in much the same way as before. The evening; bring the family out for Sunday Lunch; September – points can be collected at any RAF Core Catering Manpower will also be still go to the Bop on a Thursday before heading CRL outlet at Wittering or across the other Super Community fully embedded into the management and into town or have a quiet drink with colleagues CRL sites. These will be redeemable within the Activities operation of the contract on site albeit under on a Saturday night. The choices are endless. outlets or against special offers from a range of at RAF Wittering the direction of the ISS General Manager. At Some of the highlights: partner organisations. A Wittering CRL website ISS, we use the concept of One Team; in this By working in partnership with SPAR, we will be will be online from the end of May providing Wednesday 1st June case, we will bring together a number of giving both the SPAR Shops a new look ‘Store of information on special offers, events, venues and Please complete the enrolment form and return to the HIVE. Trip to Hunstanton – Join us for a people to form a new team and together, we the Future’ concept to improve their appeal to the ISS Team. There will also be a member of the day at the seaside, Leaving the Spar will play our part in the Station Team. families and living-in personnel. This will not just ISS Team dedicated to working with the Station, For Further information please contact the Sophie West in the HIVE on 01780 783838 ext Shop on St Georges Road at 0930 This contract will act as the impetus to be limited to new fridges, fancy display counters Messes, Clubs and wider community groups to 7541 or Mark Davis the Community Development Officer on ext 5158 returning early evening. Free time to enjoy make significant investment in the social and a coat of paint. More fundamentally, the ensure that the CRL contract is supporting the your day. Ring to book your seat. infrastructure of the Station and these changes range of goods on offer will be refocused wider aspects of Service life. will be take place over a number of months towards the needs of families looking to avoid a That is all to come but right now the priority is Thursday 2nd June culminating in the switching off of the food trip down the A1 into Stamford for a few groceries on transferring responsibility to ISS as seamlessly Families Picnic- on the field behind charge. Up until then, menus will go through and for those living in SLAM who may wish to as possible so that Wittering can go about its the Community Centre on Welland Road. some redevelopment as part of the transition cater for themselves. In particular, more fresh prime business. This will include training staff, 1100-1400. Bring your lunch and join the delivering new uniforms; arranging suppliers for process, but things in the JRM, Sgts’ Mess and produce will be available and SPAR is continually fun. Bouncy castle, children’s entertainer, looking to increase the range of goods that are the kitchens, cafes, bars and shops; designing Officers’ Mess Dining Rooms will stay games, fire engine. available from local producers. Pricing will be the new menus; sorting out packaging for in line with SPAR’s national pricing structure the sandwiches; installing new electronic tills; Friday 3rd June rather than the seemingly inflated prices getting security passes for our sub-contractors; Families Disco in the A1 Bar 1730-2000. of recent years and they have promised finding our way around and getting to know our Come along and have a boogie. competitive promotions to bring the very customers...... it’s a pretty busy time for the whole best deals into your Shops. of the ISS Team many of whom are working Saturday 18th June The Coffee Shop will be transformed behind the scenes to ensure we got it right on Deployed Families Trip to Butlins in into a Real Bean Cafe offering our Day One! Skegness. Leaving the Spar at 0930, free unique real bean blend created If you would like to find out more about the time to enjoy all the facilities. especially for the RAF CRL contract roll-out of Super CRL at Wittering, Sqn Ldr Kev by the Wicked Coffee Company. Cpl Merrison is the Project Officer. Alternatively, For more details about any of the above ‘Mitch’ Mitchell and SAC ‘Ollie’ Elkington you make like to make any general enquiries call Sophie West in the have had the opportunity to visit the to [email protected]. If you are coffee company in Peterborough where interested in joining the ISS Team at Wittering, HIVE on 01780 783838 ext 7541 our beans are carefully roasted. Ollie said: send your CV to [email protected]. or email [email protected]

26 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 27 MILL VIEW MOTORS EUROCARD Servicing & Storm Clouds repairs to all Gather makes & models Phase One of what could be a 3-Phase Redundancy Programme is on the table. Aimed at reducing the number 24 HOUR EMERGENCY of uniformed RAF personnel to meet the Strategic Review ARMOURERS SUPPORT BREAKDOWN RECOVERY manpower target of 33,500 by 2015 what does it mean OP ELLAMY for RAF personnel and their family members? CALL FREE 0800 056 0612 Expeditionary Armament (EA) Squadron based at RAF Marham is an Air Combat 23 Stamford Rd., Easton-On-The-Hill, Stamford PE9 3NS 93 he RAF anticipates making up to this would still be a highly unwelcome end Service Support Unit (ACSSU); the Squadron 3,000 personnel redundant with to their career. forms part of 42 (Expeditionary Support) Wing the remaining reductions achieved “A key concern about a redundancy based at RAF Wittering. The Squadron’s role is to T provide a deployable armament capability to by lower recruiting intakes and ‘natural programme is the need to provide support combat air operations Worldwide. wastage’, whereby personnel seeking further appropriate support to those transitioning Since the start of OP ELLAMY the Squadron has service are unable to remain in uniform back into civilian life. On leaving the RAF, played an important role in supporting the delivery beyond a current engagement. The impact many families will lose their job, their home, of Air Power over Libya. Wing Commander Peter Saul of such dramatic force reductions on serving their community and potentially a partner’s OC 42 (Expeditionary Support) Wing explained that T yres, batteries & exhausts personnel and their families is clear and the job if relocation is a consequence of the Op ELLAMY has allowed the Squadron to exercise RAF Families Federation remains concerned decision to leave. For many based in high- its full operational role for the first time since the by the uncertainty hanging over thousands cost areas, local home ownership or rental Second Gulf War, and has validated the ACSSU s to of RAF families. will be beyond them, so the family will have to concept of specialist organisations able to ts l u d a MoT Tes e s e l s l y i n g d I a provide an immediate and effective capability I n c l u d o

C Chairman of the Federation, Dawn move to find new employment and establish •

n a kes servicing to the Air Component Commander. A l l m 0 McCafferty said: “The announcement of the a family home. Some may be returning from 1 • Sqn Ldr Mike Williams, OC 93 (EA) Sqn, 7 6 competitive prices 8 6 Phase 1 redundancy fields is but one small overseas, creating even greater transition 0 763 0 expands on the Squadron’s role in Op ELLAMY. step forward in a long process and, for many, challenges.” emlyn street, stamford, pe9 1qp “Our initial task was to generate the weapons the uncertainty remains. Families will fall into Information about the redundancy required for the Stormshadow strikes flown from three distinct categories: programme and other developments RAF Marham, and to deploy a reconnaissance Those who are not eligible for Phase 1 are via the Federation website at: team to survey potential sites for the Deployed redundancy: www.raf-ff.org.uk Operating Base (DOB). Shortly after that the Those who wished to apply but can’t, will Dawn continued: “When combined Squadron was tasked to deploy an Operational now need to consider whether they wish to with a two-year pay freeze, the increase in Support Team (OST) and Detachment leave the Service anyway or hang on and VAT, soaring fuel prices, base closures and Armament Officer (DArmO). see if they qualify for subsequent Phases the allowances review, these cutbacks will “The OST now operates the allocated explosives and the associated financial package to convince many Service personnel and their storage area at Gioia Del Colle and undertakes the weapon preparation for both GR4 and Typhoon. support transition to civilian life. Those who family members that they are not valued The DArmO, in addition to heading-up the OST, didn’t wish to apply can rest easy – for now and that their quality of life is being eroded provides armament safety advice to the DOB Cdr, – their rank and trade/branch may yet to such a degree that a military career is no and, in conjunction with the DOB Cdr and HQ Air appear in subsequent phases. longer attractive.” Armament Staff, also defines and adjusts the armed Those who are eligible for Phase 1 The RAF Families Federation continues to aircraft parking plan to meet the operational need redundancy and wish to apply as volunteers: represent families’ views on the impact of the at the lowest practicable risk. After the initial activity They will not know until 1 Sep 11 whether their Strategic Review at the highest levels so, if you the focus shifted to preparing Paveway IV for the application has been successful or not. have something to say, get in touch via the GR4s deploying to Gioia and to prepare munitions Those who are eligible for Phase 1 website or ring 01780 781650. The Federation for transportation while accepting delivery of redundancy but do not wish to be is also launching this Spring a series of on- additional stocks to refresh the stockpile RAF considered: They will spend the next line surveys seeking your thoughts on SDSR Marham. After about four weeks the Squadron is just about getting back onto a normal footing, but six months worrying that they may be outcomes, future housing provision and remains ready to meet any additional requirements selected for compulsory redundancy quality of life. So please look out for these for Op ELLAMY, HERRICK and beyond.” against their wishes. Although, if selected on the Federation website and add your “OP ELLAMY came at a very busy time for as non-volunteers they would have a voice to the debate -all contributions are the Squadron,” explained Warrant Officer Mick year’s warning of their exit date, for some, anonymous and in confidence. Miller, WO 93 (EA) Sqn. “Generating an OST against the backdrop of swapping teams to support our standing Kandahar commitment while supporting four overseas exercises, and still maintaining 24 hr support to the effort at RAF Marham was a particular challenge, which saw the Squadron stretched. Fortunately, we have a great team who all played their part exceptionally well and can be justifiably proud of their contribution.”

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30 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 31 Seared Cannon of Lamb with Confit Bon Bon, Mint Pea Puree, Fondant Potato, Red Onion Chutney, Seasonal Vegetables and Port Reduction Jus

This is a good seasonal dish full of fresh ingredients that are in season and rich flavours to make the mouth water. This new cut is the eye of the loin or rack with all the fat and sinew removed. Very tender and lean it is ideally suited to ‘flash’ roasting, grilling. The Fondant potato is a classic, restaurant method of cooking potato; it produces a deliciously rich and buttery dish. Although this can be quite a complex dish to make as you can see I have broken it down to its individual parts so you may wish to try all the aspects of this dish or just try a couple of aspects of it.

Method Fondant Potatoes Fuels Flight Heat the butter over a medium heat in a Lamb Confit saucepan. When the butter is foaming, add Preheat the oven to 120C the potatoes and fry until deep golden- Serves 4 Difficulty: Medium No1 EL Sqn For the lamb confit bon bon, heat the oil brown on one side, about 5-6 minutes. (Do in a roasting tray. Place the lamb in the not move the potatoes as they cook.) Ingredients tray and cook, turning frequently, until Turn over the potatoes and cook for a Seared Cannon of Lamb The Fuels Flight is a diverse, capable and lightly brown on all sides. Allow to cool further 5-6 minutes, or until golden-brown • 4 boneless loins of lamb, each about adaptable part of the fabric of RAF Wittering. slightly. Rub the lamb with the half head on both sides. 150g/5½oz It consists of three main sections; F&L (Fuels of garlic and a little sea salt. Add the Carefully pour in the stock, then add the • Salt and freshly ground black pepper white wine to the roasting tray along with garlic cloves and thyme sprigs. (CAUTION: • About 4-5tbsp olive oil and Lubricants), FST (Fuels Support Team) the half head of garlic and four sprigs of the hot fat will splutter when it comes Lamb Confit Bon Bon and FSS (Field Support Section). rosemary. into contact with the stock.) Season, • tbsp olive oil Tightly wrap tin foil around the tray to taste, with salt and freshly ground • Shoulder of lamb, approximately he Fuels Support Team was set up to be requirement for aviation fuel at RAF Wittering with the lamb in it, twice to ensure it is black pepper. 1½-3kg in weight the Royal Air Force’s Early Entry Refuelling has reduced. However F&L still issue small completely sealed. Place into the oven for Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the • ½ head garlic T Capability for all fixed wing aircraft. quantities of aviation fuel to aircraft passing approximately six hours (or overnight). heat until the stock is simmering. Simmer • Sea salt They utilise various Tactical Fuel Handling through and visiting RAF Wittering. Air When cooked, the lamb should be very the potatoes until tender, then remove • 100ml/3½fl oz white wine Equipment (TFHE) to issue, receive, store Command’s Strategic Reserve of Clearway 3 tender and easily removed from the bone the potatoes from the pan using a slotted • 4 fresh rosemary sprigs and blend aviation fuel. They also have the (Anti-Icer) for the runway also falls under the using two forks. Remove all the meat from spoon and keep warm. Mint Pea Puree capability to test aviation fuel to the highest control of F&L. In an emergency, they would the bone and allow to cool. Cover and • 200g/7oz freshly shelled peas standard using a portable laboratory facility. be called on to provide Clearway for any RAF place in the fridge. Transfer any juices Red Onion Chutney • 4 sprigs mint, leaves only We can provide CLA (Chemical Laboratory Station in the United Kingdom should they from the roasting tray into a jug and leave For the chutney fry off the red onion slowly • 5fl oz of chicken stock Assistant) trained personnel to assist in fuel require it. to one side, which may be used to add until softened then place all of the other Fondant Potato testing anywhere in the world. Currently, the section’s main priority is the extra flavour to the sauce later. ingredients into the saucepan and cook • 150g/5oz butter We are currently deployed on Operations maintenance and issue of packed stocks With the lamb now shredded chop over a gentle heat for fifteen minutes. • Potatoes, peeled, cut into barrel- in SEEB Oman where we blend FSII (Fuels around the Station. This includes such the mixture up and then roll into little shapes using a cookie cutter Systems Icing Inhibitor) into the aviation fuel things as oils and lubricants that are used balls. Once the balls have been rolled, Port Reduction Jus • 75ml/3fl oz chicken or vegetable stock provided by the Host Nation. This is done in the maintenance of MT vehicles and breadcrumb the balls using an egg For the port sauce, heat the Lamb stock • 2 garlic cloves, peeled, crushed lightly in Support of OP HERRICK, Afghanistan. aircraft when present. They also maintain a mix and fresh breadcrumbs and leave and port together in a small saucepan. with the edge of a knife Throughout the year we also participate in cylinder compound which stocks a range of to deep fry when ready to plate up Bring to the boil and simmer to reduce, • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme various exercises around the World, engaging compressed gases such as CO2 cylinders, the dish. then add the butter and stir it in to melt. • Sea salt flakes and freshly ground in refuelling activities with Air Forces of many which are used in the Regiment Section for black pepper different nations. This helps us understand the operation of the DCCT (Dismounted Close Mint Pea Puree Seared Cannon of Lamb Red Onion Chutney differences and similarities between us and Combat Trainer) range. Maintaining the Meanwhile, cook the peas in boiling Just before you are ready to serve, • ½ red onion, finely chopped means we can continually improve the way Ground Fuels aspect of the Station is also salted water for about five minutes or preheat the oven to 200C/390F/Gas 6. • tbsp brown sugar we do things. This means the end service we a priority for F&L, ensuring that a sufficient until soft but still vibrant green. Drain and Quickly flash fry the lamb in a frying • 1 clove garlic, crushed provide is continually the best in the world. quantity of road diesel is available for the purée in a blender until smooth. Rub pan to colour the lamb then roast the • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar The Fuels and Lubricants Section is the needs of the Station. the purée through a very fine sieve into loins on the top shelf of the oven for 5-8 Port Reduction Jus main point of contact for any fuels-related In short, the old adage “You can’t fly without a clean saucepan, to remove the pea minutes, according to how well done you • 150ml/5fl oz lamb stock queries and demands that arise on Station, Supply” really applies to the Fuels Flight, as skins. Keep the pea purée warm and add like your lamb. Remove and allow resting • 2 tbsp port in addition to the receipt, maintenance and without the oil for the engines or fuel for the a little of the stock if required to achieve of 2-3 minutes. Turn the oven down to • 50g/2oz butter issue of aviation fuel. With the withdrawal of aircraft tanks, the whole of the RAF would be the right consistency. 160C/320F/Gas 3. the Joint Force Harrier fleet from service the significantly hindered in its Operations.

32 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 33 SSFA Volunteers Update

s I write this article I cannot believe it is already May, where does the time A go? Maybe for those waiting for a posting away from here or awaiting a quarter somewhere, it will possibly be moving all too slow. I think there are many people here at Wittering, and at Cottesmore, waiting for the announcement in the next couple of months that will let us know what the future holds for Wittering? If you should have any concerns or problems about your work, future, housing or family, please feel free in these uncertain times Name – F Cottesmore – to speak to a SSAFA volunteer who will be more CPO ColinA ‘Bungy’ Edwards. Role at R than happy to help or direct you in the right JFH Leading Hand Career direction. As Martyn Farrier is currently out of Manager and Area Ratings area, Diane Jones has once again taken-up Career Advisor. the reins as SSAFA Volunteer Coordinator, her Age - contact number is below. 42 Marital Status – My sincere apologies to all those who were Married. looking forward to the Families Disco in April which unfortunately had to be cancelled at short notice due to some faulty equipment in the A1 Club. I am hoping the next one scheduled, was held and was a great success. I also hope everyone took advantage of all that was on offer during National Families Week, and that you were able to get out and In the Hot Seat about with your family. It would also have been a great opportunity to meet some of the SSAFA volunteers who were helping out 1. What part of your job gives you the 9. Name your desert island during the week. It’s nice to find out a bit more most satisfaction? Putting the right essentials. An endless supply of about SSAFA and its work here at Wittering and people where they would like to be. peanut butter, HP sauce, Marmite, Cottesmore and to put a name to a face so sliced bread and a toaster, the entire you don’t find it so daunting to approach SSAFA 2. And the least? Not always being able works of Wilbur Smith, and most for help. There should be more Families Discos to put people where they want to be and importantly, Kylie Minogue. planned for the next half of the year. Look out satisfy their personal preference. for the dates on the Scrolling News or posters 10. What food would you choose for around the Station. 3. What is the best advice you have ever your last supper? Ham, egg, chips As summer approaches, plans for Wittering’s received? Never regret doing anything. and peas, washed down with cider. Families Day on Friday 22 July are well underway. SSAFA volunteers will once again man a tent/ Only regret the things you don’t do. stall for the day with the ever-popular biscuit 11. Who do you most admire in the painting, plus it is hoped there will also be 4. Describe yourself in 6 words. Typical, world? Baroness Thatcher. something for all the family to enjoy. So look out three-badged Matelot/biker/Yorkshire man. for our stand, come over to say hello and have 12. Name four people you would a go at biscuit painting! 5. What career would you have followed like as a dinner guest – and why? Finally a reminder to all single, married if you had not pursued your current Baroness Thatcher and Arthur Scargill personnel and their families here at Wittering profession? Game keeper or farmer. – for the obvious reasons. The late and Cottesmore, that the SSAFA Community Spike Milligan to add humour to the Volunteers are here to help. The Volunteers 6. Is there one piece of criticism that proceedings and Colin Edward II are friendly faces offering low-key practical confidential help, such as providing a listening sticks in your mind? Speak slowly. (Texas Tornado) to discuss ear, transport to hospital, mowing the lawn, MotoGP with. or even walking the dog. If you need help or 7. How would you change the MOD? would like more information, call Diane Jones Bring back the 4 ‘o’ clockers and 9 ‘o’ 13. What one piece of music would on 07717 858008 during working hours. Our clockers (tea and supper). you like played at your funeral? ‘Paint SSAFA Social Worker Ros Ferguson is located it Black’ by the Rolling Stones. at RAF Wittering and can be contacted on 8. What would be your first act as 01780 783262, meanwhile Terry McNalty, who World Leader? Ban umbrellas in city 14. How would you like to be represents RAF Cottesmore, is available on centres and make everyone walk on the remembered? Firm but fair. 01572 812241 Ext 7155, for further information left-hand side of the pavement. and more in-depth help. Caroline Batterbee

34 Cott Witt View \\ Summer 2011 Wittering View \\ Issue 4 2010 35