Inside this Issue: The Wake Island Avengers Visit RAF Marham

Issue 5 2020 £Free The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham

The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Cover Image photographer is SAC Mayfield www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 1 www.marhammattersonline.co.uk marham matters

It’s never been more important to l ve where you live

Plot 421 (Harmony) 86m2 – £240,000 Plot 381 (Harmony) 86m² – £245,000 Plot 424 (Goldings) 93.5m² – £280,000 Semi-detached three bedroom home Semi-detached three bedroom home Detached three bedroom home with a with single garage with single garage. single garage

2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes and bungalows built to a high speci cation and A-Rated for energy e ciency

FEATURES YOU’LL FALL IN LOVE WITH, ALL INCLUDED AS STANDARD

EPC A-rated High performance Money-saving solar PV Fully-integrated A-rated energy e ciency triple-glazed windows  tted to every home kitchen appliances

Fibre broadband Remote electric garage All rooms  tted with direct to your home and o -street parking quality oor coverings

Showhouse open Thurs-Mon 10am-4pm COVID-19 SAFETY We have measures in place across For the latest availability visit www.abelhomes.co.uk our sites and sales o ces to ensure Contact our head o ce by calling 01953 884486 sta and customers are safe and or email [email protected] have peace of mind when visiting us.

Individual plot images are computer generated and for illustrative purposes only. 13430-0920-5

Contemporary, spacious and energy e cient new homes designed for modern living

OUR CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS: SWAFFHAM | WATTON | BAWDESWELL | COMING SOON: TAVERHAM

2 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ Award RAF-Regt Watch - Marham Matters - MM01_Award RAF-Regt Watch - Marham Matters - MM01 26/07/2020 13:29marham Page 1 matters

The Personalised Military Watch

Specially commissioned for all those who served Crown and Country this stylish watch is personalised with the Royal Air Force or RAF Regiment emblem and engraved with your initials and years of service making a practical and handsome timepiece in recognition of your Service. Hand-crafted in gold and silver The emblems have been exquisitely decorated with 24 carat gold to highlight the superb design and milled to the precise thickness of a fine watch dial. These exclusive 28mm die-struck dials, available in two-toned gold and silver or matt silver finish are fitted within a classic 40mm steel alloy case with a matching two toned or silver stainless steel bracelet or anti-allergenic leather strap. The high precision Swiss parts Quartz movement guarantees accuracy within seconds per month and is backed by a 3 Year, International Renewable Warranty for the life of your watch. Your Exclusive Military Watch Made in Britain features: Your exclusive Military Watch is brought to you by Award Productions Ltd, l Die-struck watch face with Royal Air Force internationally renowned medalist. or RAF Regiment emblem in two tone gold Each watch features a dial, die-struck in and silver or matt silver finish. to the same exacting standards l Swiss parts High Precision Quartz as AWARD’s medals. The watch arrives in Movement a distinctive presentation box and makes l Classic 40mm Steel Alloy Case and a unique and timely gift for all occasions. Stainless Steel Bracelet or Anti-allergenic Leather strap

l 3 ATM/30 metre water resistant Royal Air Force Regiment l 3 -Year, International, Renewable Guarantee emblem also available.

FREE Engraving How to order As a unique and lasting reminder Order Online - www.awardmedals.com of your Service the reverse of your Order by Phone - Call us between 9am to 5pm on 01952 510053 exclusive timepiece can be engraved with up to 4 initials and your years Alternatively, please complete the order form enclosing a cheque/

of service. Please clearly state postal order or completing the credit card details and send to:

Award Productions Ltd, PO Box 300, Shrewsbury, SY5 6WP, UK engraving required. "

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms ...... ORDER FORM Address ...... AWARD Productions Ltd, PO Box 300, Shrewsbury, SY5 6WP, UK ...... Please tick box. Yes, please send me the following RAF or RAF Regiment watch(es)...... Postcode ...... Code Description Price Qty Total £ Daytime Tel. No...... RWBB Two tone Emblem & Bracelet £149.95 I enclose my cheque/postal order for £ ...... made payable to RWBL Two tone Emblem & Brown Leather Strap £119.95 Award Productions Ltd or please debit my card account no: (Switch only) RWSB Silver Emblem & Bracelet £139.95 RWSL Silver Emblem & Black Leather Strap £109.95

Security Code: Cards accepted: Switch Issue No. Postage/Packing/Insurance £6.50 Last 3 digits on Total £ Security Cod e signature strip Engraving required (PLEASE USE BLOCK CAPITALS) Expiry date: Valid from: Initials: ...... Years of service: ...... Signature ...... Delivery Subject to availability. Please allow up to 28 days for delivery. If cardholder’s name, address and signature are different from the one shown, please include these details. Award Productions Ltd, Registered in England No. 2001900, Shrewsbury SY5 6BT M M 0 1

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 3 marham matters

16 29 Editor: Diane Wilson Ext: 6739 Email: diane.wilson704@ mod.gov.uk RAF Marham Web Page: www.raf.mod.uk/rafmarham Designer: Laura Lang Email: laura@ lanceprint.co.uk Sales Manager: Jayne Bailey Tel: (01536) 334219 Email: jayne@ 10 20 lanceprint.co.uk regulars Survival Training 617 SQN Printer: Lance Print Ltd Station Commander's Foreword ...... 18 ...... 28 Tel: (01733) 390564 ...... 05 Paramotoring Wake Island Avengers Community Support ...... 20 ...... 29 disclaimer: The views expressed by the contributors to the ...... 22 Marham Matters are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do NEWS not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are Your RAFA Branch needs you accepted on the understanding that they conform From the Editor to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This ...... 08 magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander. All Images © Crown Force Development SQN Thank you to everyone really looking forward Copyright 2020, unless otherwise stated. who has submitted articles to getting the Christmas ...... 08 for this edition. This year decorations out of the loft! Stockists: is exceptionally busy for The Surgery, Marham, Manor Farm Medical Battery Bay many and it is appreciated Please remember if you are Centre, Swaffham, Plowright Medical Centre, that you still make time feeling overwhelmed or just Swaffham, The Surgery, Swaffham, Howdale ...... 09 Surgery, , Hollies Veterinary to let the station and the need someone to talk to Clinic, Downham Market, The Crossings Veterinary 15 SQN community know what the Welfare team on station Clinic, Downham Market, The Grove Veterinary you have been doing, and are here to help. Their list of Surgery, Swaffham, Priory Centre, Downham ...... 10 what is available to them. contact numbers are on page Market, Lynn News, King’s Lynn, St Martin’s at 20. If you feel you want to VA Primary School, Marham Infant 3FP Wing HQ It may only be the start of speak to someone away from School, Marham Junior School, Downham September but there are the station the Samaritans are Market Academy, Nicholas Hammond Academy, ...... 10 already many plans being available 24/7 on 116 123, if you Swaffham, Town Halls in Downham Market, made for what we can are aged under 19 Childline Kings Lynn and Swaffham, BAE, Warton, Armed MT Winter driving notices Forces Careers Office in Norwich, Cambridge do safely as a community are available on 0800 1111. and Peterborough, Royal Air Force Association in ...... 12 to celebrate Halloween, Downham Market, Downham Market Air Cadets, Remembrance, Thanksgiving Diane All other RAF bases. RAF Marham Allotments and Christmas. I am already ...... 16

4 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

Station Commander’s Foreword We are still open! As I pen this introduction to Marham Matters, the shadow And practising social distancing... of COVID-19 continues to loom over us. To date, the maintenance of our operational output has ...Please be patient been exceptional, and I wish and help us protect our to express personal gratitude and thanks for the efforts that staff and each other have gone into delivering such remarkable achievement through trying times.

As a Station, we remain fully aligned with Government COVID-19 policy and it is not preparation for Carrier Strike my intent to deviate from it Group 21 (CSG21). The whole in anyway. Indeed, there may Station has supported this be challenges where we may activity, with personnel from have to be more prescriptive to across the station now embarked protect our operational output. on HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH However, please be assured that supporting 617 Squadron. we aim to open and expand the social and welfare facilities and Finally, I would like to give a warm events as soon as we possibly welcome 15 Squadron and their Kings Lynn - 01553 773168 can. In addition to this, we would families to RAF Marham. As a Downham Market - 01366 386655 welcome your thoughts and squadron they have already www.londonroadvets.co.uk suggestions for anything else we provided an enormous support could do that would make life to the security aspects of better for those associated with protecting Lightning. However, the base – please pass your ideas now having them permanently to the Community Support Team. based here cements their place as an integral part of the We have had a busy summer team and of the RAF Marham preparing for Ex Joint Warrior community. They will work and Ex Crimson Warrior which alongside our existing Security has seen us host over 200 United teams, bringing a different set States Marine Corps personnel of skills, to enable the Lightning from VMFA-211. They will remain Force to continue deliver the with us for a few weeks training cutting edge of warfare. alongside 617 Squadron in Jim

Deadline for Next Issue: 7th November Please submit all entries for the next issue by the date stated above

J. W. SARGEANT Family Butcher The Best Traditional Butcher in the Area FAMILY RUN Established for over 75 years We produce all our own cattle and only use farm produce FREEZER AND COOKED MEATS [email protected] to suit your requirements Stow Bridge Nr Downham Market Find us on Facebook: Tel: (01366) 382232 www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 5 marham matters

We Are Open! • Lots of Friendly Animals • Outdoor Play Fun • Pig Racing • Tractor Rides • October Half Term Fun! • Online Booking Essential • Father Christmas Book Online Now!

“ We have made Church Farm a safe and fun environment for our returning visitors and families. PROTECT everyone, RESPECT everyone and ENJOY!” Elizabeth Esse (Owner)

6 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

“A Fantastic Way to spend a couple of hours or more!!!” Shop Shut ORDER ONLINE Welcome Back! Click & Collect Pick-Up Available For Safer Shopping Please Order 24 hours before Treasures Treasures Britain’s Biggest Beer Shop from the Past for the Future

Antiques Collectables East Anglia’s largest Jewellery Books Vinyl Selection of Steiff Shabby Chic Vintage Bears & Animals Retro Militaria The Coins Medals Featured on Bargain Hunt Shop A stunning collection of Stieff ‘future heirlooms’ 20 A single floor showroom with a PLUS With a huge selection of German Beer, truely huge stock of fascinating, Fabulous Premium Quality Toys and International Craft Beer, Spirits, Wines, Puzzles from... high quality goods on display Ciders & Gluten Free Beer

Open 7 Days A Week Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sundays & Bank Holidays 10am - 4pm

Bring theon family. down!Come There’s All Under One Roof! something for everyone

Well behaved dogs welcome in Antique & Steiff Shop

Turn at JSW The Car Sales Wheelchair Friendly Shop

The Warehouse Antiques, Beers of Europe& The Steiff Shop Garage Lane, Setchey, King’s Lynn, , PE33 0BE Tel: 01553 812000 TheWarehouseAntiques.co.uk [email protected]

AD-Welcome-Back-Warehouse-Antiques-A4-Marham-2.indd 1 12/08/2020 10:12 www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 7 marham matters news Force Development Squadron Currently, one of the main objectives of FDS is to support individuals coming back to work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Health, Wellbeing and RAF, sporting facilities are gradually Resilience plan is being restructured increasing their opening times to to focus on the individual and accommodate for Whole Force collective resilience at RAF Marham. personnel who cannot attend Events and activities will start to during the working day. The role be introduced to help target the of ‘Duty PTI’ is being introduced physical, mental, social and spiritual to accommodate for this, allowing resilience of Whole Force personnel. individuals to train between the hours of 0600-1900. With the The PEd Flt are focusing on the EAGLES Schemes slowly being physical resilience aspect by introduced, this offers individuals introducing a monthly Adventure an excellent opportunity to Training Intervention Day where take part in APDT and gain Your RAFA Branch personnel across the unit can book new skills and experiences. onto selected Adventure Training activities. This enables our Whole Best lines of contact for FDS Force to experience situations and the PEd Flt are Ext’s 7495 that they are not accustomed too and 7094 respectively. All NEEDS YOU in their day to day life, pushing future events will be advertised individuals into ‘stretch’. With the through the WIGO, RAF Marham RAF Marham RAFA branch has been reopening of Gymnasiums and the Routine Announcements and reintroduction of sports within the via posters around the unit. running successfully since its inception over 6 years ago. We boast over 700 members and are in the top 10% of RAFA Branches across the UK with regards to size. Our focus is supporting service personnel and their families from RAF Marham and we are a firm believer that charity begins at home.

It is just not about raising funds particularly a vast swath of but friendship and arranging postings and detachments welfare activities for personnel we as a committee are in and their families; From fantastic desperate need of some active boxing nights, battle of the members to join us. We would bands, quiz nights, hobby horse particularly like to see some racing nights, children’s fun and new members from the wider fitness activities and directly service community. You will supporting families who are have the ideas how we can best in need of an extra little bit of support the community and help. (Especially when their more importantly give you an partner is away on detachment) opportunity to make friends and indeed make a difference. The onset of Covid 19 has set us additional challenges and We currently meet the greatly restricted what we were 2nd Monday in the month able to achieve. We feel as a at 7 till 8 and because of committee we still have a lot Covid virtually via zoom. to offer RAF Marham and their families and we now want to For more information please get back involved in doing what feel free to get in touch. we do best supporting you all. [email protected] Kip-KL • 01553 611876 17 Norfolk Street, King's Lynn PE30 1AN Now to the crux of my article, Yours kipmcgrath.co.uk/kings-lynn because of various reasons Paul Edwards (President)

8 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

RAF Marham open new Battery Bay

RAF Marham Station Commander, Group Captain Jim Beck officially opened a new state- of-the-art Battery Bay at the Station in August, the first of its kind in the Royal Air Force.

The arrival of the new F-35B The new Lithium-ion bay Lightning aircraft meant that features a temperature the existing facility needed a controlled storage area, significant upgrade to support separate charging area with the battery requirements of sophisticated fire suppression a 5th generation platform. and extraction systems and a secure storage for assets critical The Lightning’s control surfaces to aircraft maintenance. The and actuators are electrically driven General Engineering Flight by Lithium-ion batteries rather personnel maintain stock on than the more traditional hydraulic behalf of the Customs warehouse, methods. Power demands for this ensuring that batteries are are met by a 270VDC battery that available for issues 24/7. weighs in at over 40Kg. Alongside this, a 28VDC battery provides The new bay has been in use for traditional ancillary power. a number of months now but 500 years of endurance Although both batteries contain a hadn’t been officially opened due See Oxburgh Hall like never before as we host of fail-safe features designed to the Covid 19 restrictions. Whilst undertake our most ambitious to reduce the risk of thermal opening the facility officially conservation project to date, plus delve runaway and fire, the storage, today Group Captain Beck charging and maintenance said “ It’s fantastic to open this deeper into the fascinating story of the requirements for Lithium-ion pioneering facility today which is Bedingfeld family with a brand new house batteries required a significant another addition to the amazing experience and guided tours. upgrade to the station’s existing infrastructure that we now have facility. Maintenance Support at RAF Marham to support a world Open daily 10.30am - 5pm. Squadron engineers worked closely class 5th generation aircraft. Call 01366 328258 for details with Amey, Defence Infrastructure The work that the personnel nationaltrust.org.uk/oxburghhall Organisation, the Fire Safety Officer do within the Battery Bay and industry partners to develop a is an essential part of the #nationaltrust When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support future proofed facility that could, if process that keeps us at the helps us to look after special places such as Oxburgh Hall for ever, for everyone. required, support over 40 batteries. forefront of Air Power.” © National Trust 2020. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images. www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 9 marham matters News

15 SQN RAF Regiment arrive at Marham

15 Squadron (Sqn) RAF Regiment arrived at RAF Marham on 1 September 20. A Light Role Field Sqn, it can deliver the full spectrum of Force Protection (FP) effects in any theatre of operations.

The Sqn comes under the proudly paraded at the recent command of No 3 FP Wing Annual Formal Inspection and 3FP WING HQ Headquarters and is comprised RAF Marham arrivals parade. of 125 personnel; RAF Regiment and specialist trades people. 10 The Sqn has had a relationship Service families have also joined with RAF Marham for a number Parare Et Protegrere the RAF Marham community. of years. It was the first RAF Regiment Sqn to provide FP to Prior to the move to RAF the Lightning Force; working with Marham, 15 Sqn RAF Regiment 6 RAF Police and Security Sqn Our motto ‘Prepare and Protect’ has never was based at RAF Honington to deliver specialist security of from 1995. During this time, its the Base and F35 Enclave during had a truer meaning over the Summer operational history included Project ANVIL and ERASMUS. Op RESINATE (South), Op TELIC Pioneering specialist Next Gen period, with adaptation, new faces and 2 and multiple Falkland Islands Air Force FP Tactics, Techniques sporting endeavour amongst the themes. tours as a Rapier Air Defence and Procedures, elements of the Sqn until it re-rolled as a Field Sqn deployed to RAF Akrotiri Sqn. Between 2006 and 2014 on LIGHTNING DAWN. This was Our extended family continues Entering the novice category the Sqn took part in no less ahead of 617 Sqn to set the to grow with the addition of no Cpl Brown romped home with than 6 deployments to Iraq and conditions to deliver a dedicated less than 3 new-born babies; the accolade ‘Number 1 Rookie’ Afghanistan. The Sqn had the FP mission during the inaugural congratulations to their new having pulled off an ambitious honour of being the last RAF overseas deployment. parents. With sadness we said trick. As a highly proficient Regiment ground holding unit goodbye to outgoing OC, Wg snowboarder, the transition to at Basra International Airport on Currently the Sqn sits in the Cdr Frame who departs for the competing on a board on water Operation TELIC 13 and was also Contingent Operations Training ever near ‘Out of Area’ call. proved reasonably seamless. part of the FP Wing that closed phase of the FP Force Operational Camp Bastion at the end of Op Readiness Mechanism, which will Recent focus has been Through much adversity HERRICK 20. see the Sqn prepare its personnel somewhat Marham centric, 3FPWGHQ continued to deliver, to be able to deploy and provide welcoming 15 Sqn RAF completing mandatory training With over 32 months deployed FP capabilities globally. Regiment onto Station, whose objectives, shooting and FP on Op HERRICK between 2001- formal arrival was marked by a training whilst providing the 2014, the Sqn was recently The Sqn is happy to be here COVID-19 compliant Wg parade, direction and guidance for the awarded the right to emblazon at RAF Marham and is looking with 15 Sqn and Standard front Sqns. Re-establishing the new Afghanistan battle honour on forward to integrating into the and centre parading before normal is in full sway with work its Sqn Standard, which was fabric of the Station. the FP Force Cdr Air Cdre Miller from home initiatives drawn and Stn Cdr Gp Capt Beck. The down. Flt Lt Mace has since Sqn arrival prefaced the Annual returned from the Op RESCRIPT Formal Inspection of 3FP Wg by COVID-19 regional response, FS Air Cdre Miller, where in addition Dye returned from an overseas he visited personnel and offered deployment, Summer leave his insight and direction for periods are complete and Sgt the future of the FP Force. The Albert too is back in the fold visit proved to be a success and having served a demanding but was meticulously structured by thoroughly rewarding 4 months Project Officer Flt Lt Taylor. as a Co-Responder with the On the sporting front SAC Ambulance Service on the front Mcguckin delivered a line. With the Winter period successful RAF Wakeboard looming we look forward to Cable Championship as the the challenge ahead in the Project Officer, an impressive form of deployed exercises and undertaking amidst complex evaluation prior to operational planning considerations. readiness.

10 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

• Appointments to suit you • Cutting edge diagnostics • Full operating facilities • Emergency out of hours care at the premises • Nurse preventative health clinics • Accessible parking • Military Discount with ID card

Barkers DBS "A Proper Shop Selling Proper Things" Independent Hardware & DIY Store Ironmongery - Sand & Cement - Plumbing Bathroom Accessories - Hand & Power Tools - Electrical Paint & Accessories - Timber

The Green, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 9DY Tel: 01366 382525 www.barkersdbs.co.uk Open Monday - Saturday 8am - 5pm www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 11 marham matters nEWS

The festive period has now arrived and as we all get ready for Christmas and New Year, the RAFP and Sy Flt would like to remind you of what to look out for and be cautious of around this time of year DO’S DONT’S Do drink mulled wine, eat mince pies Don’t drink & drive and dance the Christmas jive Don’t leave gifts on display Do leave presents for friends for others to see & family under the tree Don’t leave your windows and doors Do decorate your home with unlocked when leaving your home signs and lights Do have fun in the snow & Don’t drive when the roads are too make a snowman dangerous, wait out and plan Do decorate your Christmas tree Don’t leave appliances on all day with tinsel and lights and cause a fire Do have a Merry Christmas & Don’t ignore your suspicions, A Happy New Year concerns or fear

Going away over the Christmas period? The RAF Police can keep an eye on your property. Please email [email protected] with your name, address, dates away and a good contact number.

Alternatively, please come to the Police Flight, now situated in the old Tornado Simulator Building, behind the WO & Sgt’s Mess, and complete a form.

FOR ANY ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT 01760 337261 ext 7214 The RAF Police and Security Flt would like to wish everyone at RAF Marham a very

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year MRM-2020-200 MT Winter Driving Notices

* Do not drink and drive, ensure you receive a lift from a friend/family or book a taxi

* Ensure checks are being carried out on personal vehicles, this includes:

- checking oil, coolant and wind screen wash levels - vehicle tyre pressures are correct - windscreens are 100% clear of all ice/snow/mist before commencing any journey (no matter how short) - avoid using hot water to clear windows, this can crack glass.

* On long journeys, it is recommended to take overnight provisions in case of breakdown.

12 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

NEED ADVICE ?

FREE LEGAL ADVICE Last Wednesday of the Month - The HIVE

Our friendly solicitor, Sara, will be on hand to help you with clear and practical legal advice on any issues you may be facing. Winter Driving Appointments available 9:00-12:00 – call The HIVE to secure your time 01760 446138 Divorce and Separation • Access to Children • Property and Finance Matters Planning Ahead • Pre-nuptial and Post-nuptial Agreements • Employment Issues Landlord and Tenant Issues • Advice on Wills and Power of Attorney

wardgethinarcher.co.uk/marham

Chatteris • Dereham • Downham Market • Ely • • King’s Lynn • Swaffham • Watton

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 13 marham matters

In the dark about mortgages? Let us illuminate you.

It can be a pretty anxious time, trying to sort out a mortgage. If you feel like you’re in the dark, get the clarity you need from our FREE Mortgage Advice Service.

We put you in touch with your own mortgage expert. It’s their job to review your circumstances and needs and recommend the best mortgage for you. They can talk you through schemes like For clarity on your Forces Help to Buy, which helps both first-time next mortgage call buyers and those moving up the property ladder to buy a home. Plus, they’re always at the end of the phone – happy to clarify anything you’re not 01543 440 944 sure about. We are open Monday - Friday between 08:30 - 17:30

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Mortgage Excellence Plc, trading as Forces Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 03527577. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6QS. For your security all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

AWO000335

14 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

Looking for a rewarding and challenging new career?

As a Foster Carer you will help children and young people to feel safe and valued; while you continue to challenge yourself and fulfil your sense of adventure. #ChangeCareer #ChangeALife

Find out about Fostering 0800 774 7901

www.nextstepfostering.org [email protected]

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 15 marham matters nEWS

RAF Marham AllotmentsAllotments Summer 2020

The RAF Marham Community Allotment is a socio-cultural extension to station, offering enhancements to the quality of life, an enjoyable hobby and building resilience.

As outdoor activities such as of the shed had become and an application to the RAF attempt to regain the deficit gardening and allotments a disposal site for organic Benevolent Fund was filed in and ensure that Pumpkinfest continued to be encouraged detritus. It had eventually December 2019. 2020 remained on track. in national guidelines, spread across an area the the allotment further size of a tennis court and After the success of With ever changing guidelines 617 articles demonstrated its value of was overgrown with weeds Pumpkinfest 2019, planning on travelling abroad, many contributing to the personal which provided a home for for the 2020 event started people opted to stay at home wellbeing, mental resilience a variety of pests. Funded by in the spring and over a during the school holidays, and morale of the members. membership fees, much of hundred seeds from the newly blending the spring and There was also a significant the waste was removed from established seed bank were summer into one long season. amount of team spirit on show site by a private contractor, sown. As with 2019, Mrs. Vickie Almost as quickly as the when plots were tended on but some was used to fill Corbett and Mrs. Elaine Griffiths unseasonably warm weather behalf of those who were the new raised bed. The were project leads, this year had started, August came supporting and working for remaining ground was cleared with increased planting space to a close and schools were the NHS during that time. and sown with grass seed. and more volunteers. No single reopened for the Autumn term. Upcycled wooden pallets member of the allotment is a Funding was finally approved The winter period was were later used to construct horticultural expert and much for the shed project and much typically quiet, allowing yearly large, self-contained and more of the knowledge is learned of the growing season was maintenance to be carried sustainable compost areas. through the environment or grinding to a halt. The final out and tasks from the 5-year from personal research. fixture for the RAF Marham plan to be addressed. The final Other elements of the 5-year There is now a greater depth Community Allotment remnants of the old compost plan included installing a more of knowledge within the team this year is Pumpkinfest pile were removed, a seed economical water solution and about the cross pollination 2020. Harvesting and final bank was created, and the a new shed. Both these projects of the Cucurbit family. As the arrangements will happen raised bed completed. The, appeared to be incoherent with Pumpkins started to grow, through September with the ever-reliable, George Salmon factors such as limited finances, it became apparent that the format of the event unknown was the project officer and resources, time and other seeds harvested last year were at this stage. oversaw most logistical issues. Predictably, the result of cross pollination of the compost George also reacted quickly to with Courgettes. Colloquially The allotment rarely has a pile removal an online advertisement and known as Mumpkins, the waiting list for members and work. This was secured the procurement of 6 fruit was a large and very fat there are always roles on the significant x 1000 litre water containers Courgette which started to committee for individuals in because for at a bargain price. Addressing turn orange but was NOT, need of a secondary duty. some years the aspiration to replace a Pumpkin. There was an Interest should be directed to the ground the current shed, financial immediate period of planting Flt Sgt Daz Parker or just by to the rear assistance was investigated shop bought seeds in an wandering over to take a look.

16 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ nEWS marham matters

Before After www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 17 marham matters NEWS

Survival Training

It’s been a strange year for us all at the Survival training section at RAF Marham. All of the survival training that we deliver to the F-35 pilots was put on hold for a short time.

In that time we wanted to look you learnt something about at ways in which we could survival from these videos. connect with the station and In addition to this we have built the community. a new survival training delivery area. Over the summer we We came up with an online connected with local cadet units video library of short survival online and gave a presentation training videos. These included to them about how to survive building different types of in different environments. shelters, collecting water With things returning to a and food, camouflage and level of normality we are now concealment, how to get returning to our normal working rescued and map reading. environment. We have been These were every day survival training the pilots how to tips that we pass onto our aircrew survive at sea should they need should they find themselves in to eject from their aircraft. a survival situation. Hopefully

Do you need New Tyres? • Mobile tyre fitting service • No call out charge • Vast range of tyresat competitive prices • Puncture repair • Locking wheel nut removal service We come to you at home or work... Tel: 0333 444 5454 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hometyre.co.uk

18 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

General Motor Factors & Retail store BY APPOINTMENT TO HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II Visit our store for a wide range of Toys, Gifts, Household goods, WASTE DISPOSAL CONTRACTORS Cycles, Car parts and Accessories.

Join our retail store ‘loyalty We have a full range of services to card’ scheme offer you and your company: Free local delivery Recycling Cardboard, Plastic, Metal, Glass, Weee waste, Rubble, Soil, Wood and Plasterboard •Third party tipping •Events

Facebook.co.uk/ atjohnsonretailstore Innisfree Trading Estate, , 46 - 48 Bridge Street Horsleys Fields King's Lynn, PE32 1EX Downham Market Kings Lynn www.baco-compak.com Tel: 01366 383407 Tel: 01553 760962 [email protected] TEL: 01553 630 247

Caring for your environment

a family owned and run business No journey Bishops Travel have a wide range of vehicles is too big or available for hire to suit every occasion too small!

A family run fishing tackle business since 2013 • Fresh maggots • Worms • Casters

We also provide advice and knowledge on the local waters Taxis, Minibuses, Coach Hire, Private Hire, Airport Transfers 01366 324307 07767304684 www.bishopstravel.co.uk Barnfield Farm, 263 The Drove, Barroway Drove, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0AN 10-12 High Street, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 9DB Opening Times Monday - 9am till 3pm Tuesday - 9am till 3pm Wednesday - Closed Thursday - 9am till 3pm Friday - 9am till 3pm Saturday - 9am till 5pm Sunday - Closed Tel: 01366 858016 OrdersFrFreshe nowsh co cocklesbeingckles atakenr nowrivin gavailable for mid Christmas June www.outdooranticsnorfolk.com

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 19 marham matters NEWS

already been flying for several years!

PARAMOTORING The rest as they say is history, I qualified as a Club Pilot back in July and my addiction to this method of flying has grown exponentially. It’s the closest to going back to the oldest methods of flying with full exposure to the elements. It’s the simplest method of powered flight and the cheapest in real

terms. If you’ve a mechanical bent, the challenges of keeping a 2-stroke lightweight engine are morning; 0430 out of bed and in continuous as is the collecting of the air for the first time by 0600, ‘useful’ tools. Several of the flyers quickly followed by a couple more take their interest in the mechanics quick flights. Enough time for of paramotoring seriously enough self-congratulations and tea and they are building their own medals and in work for 0800!! All engines. Cross country flying is the equipment was provided (I used best way for seeing the countryside my cycling helmet for the and low level is the best way to see wildlife! The really brave can go ground training and bought a heavily into aerobatics which may flying helmet to meet the safety sound impossible and when you and COVID regs). Club Pilot rating Tim’s story I saw 2 Paragliders loping lazily see them flying them you question soon followed meaning I could around, using the limited thermals if they really are possible! fly pretty much unsupervised, I was much younger and a to climb and head out over the but some restrictions on how far Corporal on ‘Adventure Training’ in valley and climb to the mountain All I can say is make the step, you I could fly from the airfield for the German Alps as part of 1 Sqn peaks. We were close enough won’t regret it! insurance purposes. Gaining hours RAF Regiment back in the early to watch one pilot land next to and filling up my bag of experience 90’s. I say Adventure Training, but his car, pack his kit into the back I decided to enter the British it was a cover story to carry out Nige’s story and drive off. The second landed Life is about experiences, Paramotor Championships in the mountain training ready for that next to a bar, packed his kit and adventure, fun and testing yourself. Club Pilot Class; in for a penny….. year’s Cambrian Patrol in Wales. vanished inside. It was clear I was In recent years I have tried many It was a great experience, flying So, I was under a Bergan (50lb getting Adventure Training wrong! different challenging sports and gaining experiences and minimum) and we were keeping and activities, but one I had on advise from the best in the UK and up a good pace – pretty much Wind forward 15 or so years and I my bucket list just kept getting from overseas in the Open Class. running – up the side of a German was undergoing a long layoff from pushed back for one reason or While there I took the opportunity mountain topped with snow. We diving, so I needed to get out and another. Paragliding. I had been to complete the required flying stopped to eat our lunch, a very do something (without climbing to Crickhowell AT centre in Wales in tasks and theory exam and soggy bread roll, filled with meat hills!). It was then I rediscovered 2017, but the weather was against completed my pilot rating. The unidentifiable and some limp paragliding. I started to investigate, us from the start and we didn’t event was enjoyable and provided salad now permanently deformed the RAF provide training for manage to do much more than fly challenging events all aimed at into something the shape of one free and will loan you kit when a training wing while still firmly on introducing newcomers to the of our Bergan pouches. you’ve qualified….hmmm…. the ground. Step forward 3 years sport to competitions. I was Wiping the sweat out of my eyes I interesting… I applied to and a chance encounter with Tim fortunate to come second in the looked out over the valley below, Crickhowell, qualified and then and an interesting rucksack on his Club Pilot class, result! spent years looking for hills, back. He had been paragliding a with wind in the right direction few (many) years and was going I have flown along the beach a and at the right strength. In out to ground handle his wing; matter of feet above the sand, the east of the country, namely continuation/skills training when flown high and marvelled at the the Lincolnshire/Norfolk you cannot go flying. He told clouds well below me as I took border, there is a distinct me of a place local to Marham my paramotor up to 10000ft. I lack of hills. So, I followed up that provided Paramotor training call what I do ‘Lawnchair Aviation’, some Facebook links I had and I made contact immediately as it really does feel like sitting for training with UFly4Fun at (#UFly4fun). in a garden chair, but with Winglands airfield, 30 mins exceptional views. If you have ever drive along the A17 from my I started training the following considered trying paramotoring or house. I visited the airfield Monday, 25 May 2020, COVID paragliding, then take the plunge. out of interest, only to bump social distancing in place. A full day Get some training first though! into one of my old mates on the Monday and a few hours in Marham has its own Paramotoring from previous squadrons in the evenings and I was ready for Club now, so get in touch and see the Regiment. Seems he’d my first flight on the Friday where it could take you.

20 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

NOW OPEN

BOOK ONLINE: KINGSLYNNCORNEXCHANGE.CO.UK

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 21 marham matters community support

Community Update from the COMMUNITY SUPPORT - OC WO Graham Spark Community Support team: Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6136 or 95951 6136 Email: graham.spark984@ During these times we have We are hoping to start with mod.uk had to look at how we support some events in the near future community support our families, we are still here which will be socially distanced advisor for support and advice and are and pre-bookable only. We are Maydie Smith Repairs Maintenance only ever a phone call or email looking at starting these in our Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6136 Requests away. We have adapted our Email: maydie.smith594 Option 1 (24/7, 365 days a year) outside classroom, in Ladywood, mod.gov.uk events/ activities by using the hopefully starting with The Allocations, Move activity table, situated inside ‘reindeer and wreath workshops’ MARHAM LODGES / Appointments, Furniture, the Simply Fresh shop. This is later on in the year. Further CONTACT HOUSES Retention and Other updated on a weekly basis and details and posters to follow Zara Murfitt Help with SFA Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6136 Option 3 - Option 3 (Central often has a theme, transport, in due course, if the current or 95951 6136 region - Marham), Open Monday wildlife, camping etc to name guidelines remain. Email: zara.murfitt515@ to Friday from 8.30am till 3pm a few already offered. The table mod.gov.uk has proved popular and we have We are creating a new activity, RAF Marham Amey Local decided that if and when ‘normal’ STATION YOUTH WORKER Customer Service Centre ‘borrow bags’. These bags are Ian Savage 3 Woodview Road, RAF Marham, returns then we continue to offer themed - wildlife, star gazing, Mobile: 07850 973228 Kings Lynn, PE33 9NP (Monday this support, from the Marham crafts, cookery etc and will be Email: ian.savage@ 9am till 3pm & Tuesday to Hub, on a monthly basis. available for families to use, actionforchildren.org.uk Friday 9am till 12 noon) at their leisure, offering ideas Community We have taken this time to and equipment for the chosen Development officer Welfare update our procedures and activity. These will be available Jocelyne Newman look at new ways of working. to book from the Marham Hub, Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6082 SSAFA Lodges can now be booked via further details will be published Email: jocelyne.newman395@ ADMIN SUPPORT & Sharepoint and we will adopt mod.gov.uk APPOINTMENTS when we are able to offer these Teresa Smyth this process for the Sandringham out. Safer Neighbourhood Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6578 Centre/ Soft Play as and when we Team, Watlington can reopen these facilities. Please do keep an eye on Tel: 0845 456 4567 or 101 Welfare workers our Facebook groups, we Carol Bullas RAFP Community Officer Tel: 01760 337261 Ext 6501 We have introduced ‘Deployed (Community Support) have Cpl Tia Butterworth Adele Berryman tea in a box’, a new way of 2. The first, Marham Community Ext: 7214 Tel: 01760 446378 delivering what use to be our Noticeboard is used by any Tel: 0777 395 8067 Helen Layfield deployed tea parties, again this member ( Marham Personnel, (this phone is manned 24hrs 7 days) Tel: 01760446199 Ext: 6199 will continue for the foreseeable Out of hours their families and the local 03000111723 future. We can cater for all this community) to ask questions or Housing way including those living to push anything of interest out SSAFA Volunteer outside of Marham. to the community. SCSO Co-ordinator Flt Sgt Terry Norman Tel: 07984 908622 Tel: 01760 446052, on base 95951 6052 WO PMS Email: terrance.norman134@ WO AL Creeth mod.gov.uk Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 7231 Twitter: scsomarham PADRES AMEY SFA Tel: 01760 337261 Ext 7550 Contact Details 07876 395920 www.ameydefenceservices.co.uk Tel: 0800 707 6000 Charlie Houlder-Moat Chaplaincy families worker (Methodist Forces Board) 07773636607 or x7550

Contact Us:

Alison, Chaplaincy Clerk: ext 7550 • Alex, Senior Chaplain: ext 7225 • Charlie, Families worker: ext 7550

Group email: [email protected] Emergency/Out of Hours number: 07876395925

22 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ community support marham matters

The Marham Hub often posts on here advertising our events or anything of interest. We have a second Facebook group, Kelly’s last check Marham Community Support, this group is for Marham Personnel only, the information on here is relevant only to in from Team QEH those based at Marham and advertises events/activities especially for Marham families and offers support to deployed families. Please do request to Here at the QEH, we have been busy getting our miles in for the join both groups, both groups require you to answer a couple RAF Benevolent Fund. So far we have managed to walk a whopping of simple questions. 51,000km, with the money being split between the deployed

We also have a Hive team families fund and the QEH. 21 of us have now finished our 100 mile based within the Marham Hub, challenge and we are aiming to hit a target of 72,000km, for 72 they have a Facebook page which keeps you updated with years of the NHS. pertinent information – RAF Marham HIVE. The ladies are here to offer local information We have also undertaken a anyone who needs any help so if you have any questions photo competition on the back and support no matter what. please feel free to drop them of our 100 mile challenge, with The Hospital and RAF Marham a line. a range of categories including have an incredible partnership walking buddies, views of West and this will continue to Norfolk and juniors. flourish even after I’m gone. The Marham Hub can be I’ve included some of the contacted on x6136 or brilliant entries that have been I wish you all the best of luck in via email sent it. The team are looking whatever adventures await you. forward to hearing the results WO Graham Spark – and collecting our medals in Kelly [email protected] the New Year, marking the second year Team QEH have FS Terry Norman – been involved in raising money Terrance.norman134@ for the RAF Benevolent Fund. mod.gov.uk The challenge has been a great success this year, with over 100 Mrs Maydie Smith (Community colleagues join the challenge, Support Advisor) – as well as staff from local [email protected] supermarkets and some of the general public – even our CEO Mrs Zara Murfitt-Buck is involved! (HIVE Information Officer) – [email protected] Sadly, this will be my last publication for Marham Mrs Anne Germany Matters. My Husband and (HIVE Information Officer) – I are embarking on a new [email protected] adventure with the RAF at the end of the year! We will be sad Kind regards to leave Marham as it was our Community Support first posting and where we found our feet. I am incredibly Maydie thankful to have lived in an amazing community and I M J Smith (Mrs) l Community hope that the foundations that Support Coordinator l Royal have been set will continue to Air Force Marham, PE33 9NP thrive within the community. Mil: 95951 7425 Civ: 01760 337261 x 7425 *Email: / The Armed Forces Network will [email protected] continue to strive within the hospital and be available for

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 23 marham matters community support

Heavens Above We will remember them. By Padre Mark Perry Culinary Corner

A few years ago, I went on a obligation to talk in whispers are The spooky month is here… be • 25g Fresh Chives, Battlefield Tour and visited Ypres felt here’, as one of Tubby’s signs careful on the dark nights. Not • 100g Grated Parmesan, whilst staying in Poperinge, located states. Here many officers and just with being seen and being • Truffle Oil, in the Belgian province of West soldiers came to receive what safe. But with the superstitions, • 100g Butter, Flanders. There is much to share was probably their very last the howling of something • 1ltr Vegetable stock about the grim battles of Ypres Communion before returning scary in dark… probably just but it is my time in Poperinge to the front line, many never a pheasant knowing Norfolk We kick things of by finely dicing that I reflect on this issue of to return. too well. Now onto the food, the onion and garlic, then Marham Matters. October marks the start of so you’re going to want a large Time spent there is a stark much from the end of Oktober deep Sauté pan or flat large Poperinge is about eight miles to reminder that we owe so much festival to the beginning of sauce pan. Fry off the onions the west of Ypres and is famous to those who gave their lives comfort food, from the start and garlic on a low heat. Pick for growing hops – I did sample in the cause of freedom from of the Game season to Wild through your mushrooms and in the form of some of its local oppression and tyranny. As we mushrooms taking over the local clean if necessary. If you want brew! During World War I, the enter remembrance this year, woods. cut the mushrooms into smaller town was one of only two in we come before God in grateful sizes if you wish. Belgium not under German thought of those who died in In Season recipe Cook until translucent and soft, occupation. It was used to billet war. Further, it is poignant to Let’s have a look at Wild now we add the arborio rice British troops and provided a safe remember those who have lost mushroom Risotto topped with and stir to prevent sticking, next area for field hospitals. Known their lives on the front line of fresh chives and drizzled with a carefully pour in your white familiarly as 'Pop', it was just the fight against Coronavirus drizzle of truffle oil. We’re going wine and cook until the wine behind the front line and formed and those dear to us who have to make a mushroom puree to has evaporated. an important link for the soldiers also died. We remember them fold through the risotto first for and their families, especially via committing all into the loving a creamy flavour and a deep The next part is a little time Talbot House. In the town hall hands of God. earthy colour. consuming, you want to add a two death cells are preserved ladle of stock then stir until the and outside in the courtyard are As the well-known thoughts of For the puree, you’ll need; rice has absorbed all of it then there public execution post used Laurence Binyon state, repeat until the rice is cooked, by firing squads for deserters. • 250 flat mushrooms, it does take a while so stay On the outskirts of the town are They shall not grow old, as we • 1 Garlic clove, patient. Have a little taste and several military cemeteries with that are left grow old; • 1 White onion, season it with a bit of salt and the graves of British, Australian, Age shall not weary them, nor the • 150ml Double Cream, pepper. Once you are happy French, German, US and Chinese years condemn. • 50g Butter, with the rice fold that lovely servicemen. It is all very moving! At the going down of the sun and • And a splash of your favourite puree you made earlier for the in the morning White wine. real mushroom flavour we are During my stay in Poperinge I We will remember them. after! Once you’re happy with slept in Talbot House also known We can start by dicing the onion, it - bowl it up, sprinkle the chives as TOC-H, using an abbreviation And in the words of the Toc-H garlic and mushrooms. In a sauce and parmesan over then drizzle taken from the army signallers’ prayer may we say, pan, add your butter wait for it a little Truffle oil and there we code of the day. TOC-H was the to melt then fry the onions, garlic have it! If you are not partial to destination of countless soldiers Lord Jesus Christ, the Master and mushrooms. Add a bit of a bit of truffle, feel free to leave it of all ranks seeking a haven from Carpenter of Nazareth, on a salt and pepper, add a splash of off the top and substitute it for a the hell of the front line. Here cross of wood and nails you your favourite white wine. When more preferred choice! there was no distinction of rank; have wrought man’s salvation; everything’s cooked, add your officers and privates alike were wield well your tools in this your cream. Then we’re going to take addressed by name alone. This was workshop, so that it off the heat to make it into a influenced by an army chaplain we who come puree. Either using a hand stick called Philip ‘Tubby’ Clayton. He to you rough- blender or a food blender, blend had an unconventional approach hewn, may by until smooth. Now on to the to curbing anti-social behaviour. you be fashioned risotto. Signs such as ‘If you spit on the according to floor at home, feel free to do so your will; for • 250g Arborio rice, here’ had the desired result! The the sake • 1 White Onion, most moving part of my stay was of your • 2 Garlic cloves, visiting and receiving Communion tender • 500g of mixed Mushrooms in the ‘Upper Room’; a large attic mercy. or Wild mushrooms, you made into a chapel, with an old Amen. can pick these up easily from a carpenter’s bench as an altar. This supermarket. space is of human scale where ‘no • 100ml of White Wine,

24 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

TEL: 01366 387795 Paradise Road, Downham Market, PE38 9HS Halloween Ideas Open Monday to Friday 8.00am to 6.00pm Saturday 8.00am to 12.00pm When you’re picking out after nearly all year we have MOT Testing Servicing your pumpkin try to been wearing masks. find a nice firm pumpkin, Halloween is the perfect time MOT repairs this will tell you they are ripe and to customise a scary looking Fault Diagnosis ready to carve, Pumpkin Pie with mask! It is also the perfect time Engine Remapping a little nutmeg is something you to buy lots of chocolate either Air Conditioning don’t want to miss out on! With to dip fruit, biscuits and other Cars, motorcycles Motorbike Repairs COVID-19 in mind and delightful treats. and quads Quad Repairs

seafood from above, Celeriac is What’s In one not many people are familiar Season; with. With a slight aniseed flavour, It pairs well with Wood Between the start of pigeon if you peeled, diced October and the beginning and roasted it with butter and of December, our favourite seasoning! Mollusc comes into full swing. Dog walking The infamous Mussel, you I’d hope you do not miss home pet visits either love them or hate them. this opportunity to get your I personally cannot get enough, hands on Damsons, sloes and & home boarding especially in a creamy white plums. Then experiment with wine and garlic sauce with a crumbles, fools and cobblers. plate piled high with crusty Not to mention Damson Gin... bread, there’s nothing like it on who doesn’t like Gin these days a cold windy Autumn night! anyway. From Kent you can get your hands on juicy pears Alongside our mussels, Oysters bursting with flavour. and Scallops are perfect as well. If you prefer something fishy SAC Pulham - Junior Ranks Mess (no pun intended) brill, coley, Grey mullet and mackerel are in season now was well! If you need some inspiration, Rick Stein has plenty of books full of ideas, recipes and stories.

Next we have our famous Great British Game Season is now open. Which brings us grouse, pheasant, wood pigeon, guinea fowl and wild venison. And in no short supply. Roast duck with potatoes roasted in the T:07483 832 240 duck fat is one of my favourites! find us - follow us on

There are plenty of vegetables that come into season and amazing with the game and bow-wowpets.hotmail.com

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 25 marham matters

SUPPORTING SERVING AND FORMER MEMBERS OF THE RAF AND THEIR FAMILIES

WE CAN HELP WITH EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

FREE CALL SCAN ME WITH 0300 102 1919 YOUR rafbf.org/welfare CAMERA The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109)

XXXXX EmoWB XXX x XXX.indd 4 02/03/2020 12:54 26 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters Think Print Lance Print is an established printers based in Peterborough. At Lance we combine skill, experience & knowledge to provide a complete professional service.

We aim to fill our clients with confidence in the knowledge that any work undertaken by us, will be completed to the highest possible standard.

Call Today: (01733) 390 564

www.lanceprint.co.uk

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 27 marham matters NEWS 617 Squadron The Dambusters

VMFA-211 and the USAF at RAF Lakenheath. This will not only prepare us for operating together Since our last article in July, 617 Sqn has recovered from our at sea but also ensure we are tactically prepared for what will deployment on HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH and prepared for the next be our biggest maritime test to round of naval aviation at the end of September. date. Whilst on-board, both 617 Sqn and VMFA-211 will take part in EXERCISE JOINT WARRIOR This time though, we will be Sqn HAS site with aircraft, a Added to this is the somewhat in and around Scotland. When joined by the US Marine Corps wonderful site. The immaculate daunting challenge of operating we last embarked, 617 Sqn laid F-35Bs of VMFA-211 from Marine condition of the aircraft and our aircraft from the flight deck the foundations of operating Corps Air Station Yuma in the enthusiasm of the marines of HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH 5th generation fighters from a Arizona. Months of preparation working on them made in instant alongside our US Marine flight deck in the UK. This time by all departments across the impression on all watching. peers. This will be the largest we will be tested against more station has allowed over 200 US number of ‘B’ model F-35s ever adversaries in more complex Marines to successfully arrive The current focus on maximising operated from an aircraft carrier scenarios and working jointly at RAF Marham with all their the output of the Operational simultaneously and a landmark with other F-35s, Typhoons, a host equipment, despite the ongoing Conversion Unit at 207 Sqn, moment for both UK and US of helicopters and multi-engine government-imposed restrictions and a recent change of key defence. Prior to embarkation the aircraft and Army and Royal on travel. On Thursday 3rd engineering personnel has US pilots are undergoing a series Marine forces on the ground. September we witnessed two left the Dambusters with a of simulators to prepare them 5 ships of F-35s break into the temporarily reduced head count to land on the larger and subtly The F-35 delivers the UK air circuit to completely fill the 617 of experienced engineers. different deck of the QE. The most superiority in any theatre, obvious difference being the ski- enabling freedom of action jump on the bow which reduces for other military assets by the length of deck needed for denying enemy aircraft and take-off to approximately a third anti-aircraft systems. The ability of the ship’s length. This leaves to demonstrate this capability the rest of the flight deck clear for not just from an existing land landing, moving and servicing base but from a ship that can aircraft. reposition anywhere in the world is quite literally unprecedented Prior to embarking once more, for UK air power. the Dambusters are going through 2 weeks of exercises with As soon as we return from our our US colleagues, both from time at sea, roughly coincident

28 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

The Wake Island Avengers have Arrived

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 deployed for training (DFT) to RAF Marham in the early evening of 03 September, 2020.

Pilots from the “Wake Island Conducting realistic and Avengers” flew more than six relevant training such as a F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike DFT is essential to maintaining Fighters from Marine Corps Air readiness and lethality. Over Station (MCAS) Yuma, Arizona to the next two months VMFA-211 MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, will participate in NATO exercise and then onto RAF Marham. Point Blank, train with the HMS VMFA-211 is training with 617 Queen Elizabeth and participate Squadron in preparation for in Exercise Crimson Warrior. The next year’s inaugural, global Wake Island Avengers, RN and 211 conducted a two week deployment onboard HMS RAF will integrate throughout restriction of movement Queen Elizabeth as part of training, validating the services (ROM) period at MCAS Yuma. Carrier Strike Group 21. ability to operate jointly and Additionally, every member of with the publication of this issue, seamlessly with regard to aircraft the squadron was tested twice for we will immediately commence “During this training we will carrier operations and maritime COVID-19, first at the start of the an equally complex exercise conduct realistic, relevant power projection. ROM and again before departure. alongside VMFA-211 at RAF training to validate our digital All hands trained and prepared Marham. As Joint Warrior will interoperability and joint tactics, “It has been a busy three for the movement while following test our interoperability from the techniques, and procedures,” months for the Wake Island COVID-19 procedures, such as ocean, Crimson Warrior will test said Lt. Col. Joseph Freshour, the Avengers, ” Freshour, said. practicing social distancing and our flexibility to quickly transition commanding officer of VMFA- “COVID-19 presented a unique wearing face masks or coverings. and continue to fight ashore. 211. “The Wake Island Avengers challenge but didn’t stop the On completion, our American will work tirelessly alongside 617 Marines from dominating a While serving as part of a UK brethren will return to the USA Squadron to develop and hone recent joint exercise in Nevada, Carrier Strike Group, VMFA-211 for the winter as we all prepare to our mission skills to deploy as a packing more than 240,000 will utilize innovative strategies once again embark as a team for combined naval force. “The U.S. pounds of equipment and to combine efforts and resources the UK’s first Carrier Strike Group Marine Corps has a longstanding stepping off for this DFT. I while collaborating on complex Deployment in a decade; CSG 21. special relationship with the am proud of the Marines and mission sets to maintain our

Royal Navy and the Royal looking forward to participating Nations’ global maritime military The next 12 months will Marines. We work closely with in the special relationship our advantage. The Navy-Marine undoubtedly be the busiest yet our British allies to make sure we service has with the Royal Navy Corps team is humbled and for 617 Sqn whilst operating can work and fight side by side and Royal Air Force.” proud to represent the United F-35. We’ve helped form the basis in any clime and place. States and continue the special of UK 5th generation fighter Before the DFT commenced, partnership with the United operations and now we will all Marines, Sailors and civilians Kingdom in support of shared prove that we can combine this assigned to VMFA- security. capability with the nation’s new aircraft carriers. The fact that we are able to do this alongside our closest and most experienced allies will only help to optimise and speed up the process, ensuring that by the end of next year we can hopefully all reflect on a tough job well done and look forward to many years of cutting edge airpower from land and sea for the UK.

Hux

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 29 marham matters

Animals at Home (King’s Lynn & West Norfolk) Ltd. At Animals At Home we offer GOOD NEWS IN UNCERTAIN TIMES FOR professional services such as: BUSINESSES!

Enterprising duo Lynette Watson and AJ Walsh have just launched their PET TRANSPORT business Animals at Home. A pet care business offering a diverse range of DOG HOLIDAYS services for all types of pets and smallholding animals. CAT CARE Lynette said: “Now that businesses and workers are getting active again, PET FEEDING our services are available for walking dogs, feeds and checks for cats and other furries. If you are unable to get your animal to the vet, we will take DOG WALKING you in our Pet Taxi and return you home after your appointment. If you go away for any reason, we will host your dogs with our trained hosts and Ask us THE NATIONAL PET CARE COMPANY they will be treated as they would normally be at home. We are also on about call for emergencies. our Defence Services If you are moving home, our Relocation Transport will take your pets discount! anywhere in the UK. Our Airport runs deliver your pets direct to the airport animal reception centre and ensure they are left in good hands. Our animal ambulance is authorised by DEFRA for pet transport, as well as comfortable, safe and air conditioned. The animals are our main concern so we will stop for rests and refreshments as many times as is necessary.”

AJ added: “All our services are all tailored to suit your pet’s needs. The smart and friendly pet carers are fully trained and insured for your peace of mind and your pet’s wellbeing.”

Animals at Home (KL&WN) covers the areas from Spalding along the coast to and Wells and inland as far as Thetford, Marham and March and anywhere in between. Call for a FREE, no obligation consultation today:

T: 078822 38397 www.animalsathome.co.uk 07882 238397 E: [email protected] W: www.animalsathome.co.uk/area/kings-lynn-west-norfolk FB: Animals at Home King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Ltd

Everyone has a story to tell. Whatever your tale, fiction or What do you need to wash? reality, short or long, we can The Downham Laundry is a self-service laundrette, help you get it out there. here to banish wash day blues. Send in your manuscript and we can professionally Coin operated self-service machines Washes from as little as £4.00 set up and publish 9kg & 18kg washing machines your story. Open 6.30am – 8.30pm 6 tumble dryers Parking nearby Working with a skilled Facilities to wash and dry your own duvet team of graphic designers, we work The Downham Laundry hard to make your book 9-11 London Road Downham Market a reality. For more details, Norfolk contact us: PE38 9BX

01536 334 220 [email protected] www.lanceprint.co.uk

30 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 5 2020 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ marham matters

The Royal British Legion understands what it means to serve.

And we’ll always be here for you. rbl.org.uk

Registered charity number: 219279

www.marhammattersonline.co.uk ISSUE 5 2020 MARHAM MATTERS 31

Are you or someone you care about nding it tough? We are holding mental wellbeing training courses online for non-serving members of the RAF family. We’ll help you to see things dierently and learn practical steps to overcome some of your biggest challenges. Participation is completely con dential. Book your free place today. yes it’s free

Patron: Her Majesty The Queen Registered Charity 226686 (England & Wales). SC037673 (Scotland).