INSIGHTINSIGHT Summer 2020

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AWO000335 INSIGHT In this issue… Summer 2020

From the Editor… EDITORIAL TEAM: 6 Station Commander's Foreword Sqn Ldr Ben Fletcher [email protected] External Email: 6 75th Anniversary of the Long March Use personal email addresses listed 8 RAF College Centenary at Cranwell Tel: +44 (0)1522 726704 Editor: 9 Flight Deck Simulator Sqn Ldr Ben Fletcher [email protected] 10 Simon's Story Deputy Editor: Flt Lt D.J Hopkinson 10 39 Sqn [email protected] Designed By: 12 ANZAC Day David McClatchey elcome to the Summer 13 RAF Reserve Collection Visit edition of Insight magazine. Advertising by: W As you read through the Emma 14 The Association of RAF Regiment achievements of the people across Tel: 01536 334 221 our community, consider what you Published by: Warrant Officers or your unit could contribute to Lance Print Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, future editions. Our aim continues Bath Road, Kettering, NN16 8NL 14 Ex Lincoln Escapes to be the presentation of our best Tel: 01536 334 222 and brightest; expeditious and bold; 16 Running Club outrageous (in some instances) and www.lanceprint.co.uk courageous. Thanks once again [email protected] 18 Warrington Club Fair to the individual unit authors who Printed by: have delivered a superb collection Lance Print Ltd 19 Area 51 of ‘insightful’ articles, the magazine wouldn’t be what it is without you! Finally, I will be handing over to 20 Arnhem Nick ‘Brookie’ Brook for the Autumn edition so would like 21 Tempus Fugit or Deja Vu? to express my sincere thanks to Flt Lt Dan Hopkinson for his hard work 22 Belton Military Covenant Signing and dedication – top job!.

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The magazine is entirely funded by advertising and costs the Station nothing to produce. Insight is not an official publication and, unless otherwise stated, views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent MOD, RAF or Station policy. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the editor or publishers. Advertisements accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. Insight is produced by kind permission of the Station Commander, RAF Waddington. InsightMAGAZINE 5 Station Commander’s 75th Foreword... Anniversary Gp Capt Steve Kilvington of the Long Whole Force – I hope you enjoy reading about March it. As we move into the Summer, I have reflected on how challenging the past few months have been.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has tested the way we deliver operations, changed the way we communicate and challenged many of our t gives me great societal norms. From pleasure to introduce my perspective, the In this unusual and testing time for the the Summer edition dedication and agility entire world, it serves us well to take stock I and remember the endeavours, strife and of the Insight magazine. shown by everyone spirit of the Airmen before us. Thanks for taking the working at Waddington time to explore the has been incredible, as successes of our people has the support provided across RAF Waddington by families, colleagues and the local community. and our friends in the his year marked the 75th treated to a crisp, catered local community. anniversary of the Long and tranquil night in the As ever there are T March from Żagań (in same barn. what was German occupied numerous activities So thank you all for Poland) to Spremburg Train The opportunity to step Station in Germany. out of one’s comfort zone, which showcase the everything that you work on team building and fantastic work, positive continue to do, keep up In the extreme winter of the necessity of team work 1944 and into 1945, Nazi are regular features on all attitude and team spirit the great work. German High Command the Eagle schemes and they that exists across our delayed the liberation of featured on Ex PER ARDUA 80,000 allied prisoners by EAGLE. What I relished in marching them westward particular however, was away from advancing the opportunity to capture Soviet forces. This journey everyone’s experience and produced incredible tales of for it to be shared with resilience and camaraderie. the wider RAF and the general public through The camp at which the Social Media. The exercise march started, is known to presented a welcomed most of us through the 1963 opportunity to step out of BEING POSTED? NEED TO SELL YOUR CAR QUICKLY? motion picture ‘The Great the uniquely operational Escape’. The opportunity element of my role at 3 ISR then to capture pictures Sqn (RIGC-NI) and return to Call Mathew on 07860 363002 of the camp in which the ‘ground photography’. escape occurred was not lost Not only was I able to Main office line FREEPHONE 0800 118 2527 on me at all. The march itself pick up my digital camera traced every element of the once again but I was able We will give you a price guide over the phone march conducted by the to reconnect with service Settle outstanding finance POWs (Prisoners of War), with values and history that Consider any part exchange the exception of the brutal define the RAF. blizzards and without a night No matter what age or mileage with the pigs in Lipna Barn By SAC Daniel Smither Poland. We instead, were (3 ISR Sqn) 6 InsightMAGAZINE 75th Anniversary of the Long March

InsightMAGAZINE 7 2020 is the Centenary The ISTAR Force of the Royal is recruiting College at Cranwell with new FTRS e are in the process If you would like to share of collecting your memories with us Wmemories from – please email crn-sce- and Civil people who may have lived [email protected]. or worked at RAF College uk or write to us at: Media Cranwell, in any capacity – and Communications Office, we would love to hear your RAF College Cranwell, Service posts story and learn about Sleaford, Lincs, NG34 8HB your memories. Exciting and challenging jobs within the ISTAR Transformation Programme (ITP) are being advertised over the next few weeks for both FTRS (Warrant to Group Captain) and Civil Service personnel (E1 to C1 grades) Covid 19 FD e are very excited to programme that will directly Opportunities announce the start shape the future of the Wof our recruitment ISTAR Force. f your is looking campaign in search for for Force Development Keynes was the top-secret candidates to work in high Posts range from Admin Iopportunities in the post home of the World War Two profile key positions within Support through several COVID-19 world, then the Air Codebreakers and the site the ITP Programme or as one Project Managers to the and Space Warfare Centre also houses the National of the Project Managers who overall Programme Manager (ASWC) can offer advice. There Museum of Computing. will be delivering an exciting If this is you, then follow the is a wide variety of sites not The Imperial War Museum and dynamic transformation links below to look for the ITP too far from Waddington that at Duxford near Cambridge project. vacancies on the FTRS and can offer big returns. Any of has an incredible range of the Civil Service websites. these can be reached there military and civil aircraft and We are looking for people and back in a day. The Military other military equipment. who seek a challenge https://www.raf.mod. Intelligence Museum at Joint combined with high profile uk/ftrs-ptvr-adc-verr/ Forces Command Chicksands The Shuttleworth Collection positions and an exciting job. vacancies/ near Bedford tells the story near Biggleswade focuses People that have gravitas, of British military intelligence on aircraft from the early focus and an open mind that https://civilservicejobs. from the Napoleonic era days of flight to the end embraces change. These service.gov.uk onwards. The displays cover of the Second World posts offer the opportunity the tactics, techniques and War. Closest of all is the to work within a dynamic equipment used over the Newark Air Museum, a years and, in particular, the mere 15 miles away, offers incredible stories of the an impressive collection men and women involved. of aircraft spanning from Bletchley Park near Milton pre WW2 to the Cold War. (There is also a kart track nearby). The operational analysts of ASWC can provide details of all these sites as well as topics for study and briefing on during the visits. Points of contact Alan Cowdale and An A-10 and an F-15 Eagle above a B-52 at the IWM Duxford. Paul Stoddart. 88 InsInsiightghtMAGAZINEMAGAZINE Rivet Joint Flight Deck Simulator exterior.

STATE-OF-THE-ART FLIGHT DECK SIMULATOR UNVEILLED AT RAF WADDINGTON

A flight deck simulator which provides pilots with state-of-the-art training has been unveiled at Group Captain Kilvington, Station RAF Waddington. Commander RAF Waddington, in the cockpit of the Rivet Joint AOC 1 Gp in the cockpit of Operational Flight Trainer. the Rivet Joint Flight Deck Simulator.

he capable airborne electronic The RAF operates three Rivet RAF Waddington and operate is the first to take intelligence capability Joint aircraft one of which is within a more efficient T delivery of the Rivet in a unique cooperative the very first front-line aircraft and cost-effective training Joint Operational Flight programme between the UK in the combined fleet to environment. The simulator, Trainer which incorporates and US as Air Vice-Marshal receive the upgraded glass which is 24 foot long and 22 the very latest glass cockpit Harv Smyth, Air Officer cockpit. The new simulator foot high, was flown into the technology with traditional Commanding Number 1 will ensure the UK and US Lincolnshire base by a giant cockpit dials having been Group explained: crews are able to operate Antonov cargo plane last replaced with flat screen the upgraded aircraft to best year. To mark the unveiling of technology. The simulator will “The capability of Rivet effect without the need to fly. the simulator senior officers now be used by both RAF and Joint is phenomenal but from both the RAF and USAF US Air Force personnel to train it’s the co-manning and The increase of simulators involved in the cooperative to fly the Rivet Joint aircraft, a cooperative learning that will allow pilots to train in an UK/US Rivet Joint Programme total of 20 of which are flown has been the real success. We environment replicating the were in attendance to gain by the two air arms. have an equal voice which is operations or exercises they first-hand experience inside worth its weight in gold, we may be required to take part the cockpit The Rivet Joint aircraft are very much one team.” in. It also means the RAF can simulator. provides the world’s most cut back on ‘live’ flying from

The first aircraft in the combined Rivet Joint fleet to receive the upgrade touches down at RAF Waddington last year.

InsightMAGAZINE 9 SIMON'S STORY In 2011, the Air Traffic Control Squadron’s very own WO Phillips saved a baby’s life at the roadside on his way to work. Keeping with the theme, the Squadron is delighted to bring yet another good news story of baby related roadside heroism! Mr Simon Hendry, one of our Air and Space Operations Specialists shares his story.

aving just finished a much straight away to 1 minute the post birth movie at about 2300 intervals, we weren't sure how instruction we Hon the night of Friday to proceed, as everything we would issue: Place 8th May Lydia's water broke, had been told suggested that the baby straight confirming that the mild they would start a good length onto the mothers cramps she had been having apart and get closer together. stomach. Which I through the afternoon were At nearly 0400, I was getting did. I had managed in fact early contractions. desperate for help, so called to stay on the phone, and We called St Mary's Birthing the midwives back and they indeed holding it (I'm not Centre at Melton Mowbray said that we should probably sure if it was in my hand or (where we had decided we head back in, just to be on the pinned under my cheek) I wanted the birth to happen) safe side. told the midwives that the and the midwife said that baby was here and that we'd we needed to go in. So Clearly they hadn't expected be there in 15 minutes. we sorted our animals out, things to move this quickly. making sure they all had We left the house around 0410 I helped Lydia back into the food and water in case we and made our way once again car, got myself into the car, were gone for a while, picked towards Melton Mowbray. As and somehow managed to up or hospital bags and set we reached the other side keep on driving, despite the off. Fortunately, with it being of Lydia told me adrenaline pumping through 39 nearer 0000 by now, and she was getting the urge to my system and the near with lockdown the roads push. I called the midwives emotional breakdown I was were empty and we made straight back and told them this having due to the dramatic good time to Melton, Lydia information, so they knew that turn events had taken. still having mild contractions. this was no false alarm. A few Sqn minutes later, just outside the Lydia quickly regained her Upon our arrival Lydia village of Croxton Kerrial, Lydia wits and by remaining very went inside to have her informed me (and it wasn't calm managed to keep me assessment, and because of as calm as it sounds!) that the focussed on driving enough At sunset on 28 April COVID-19 I wasn't allowed baby was coming and that I to get us to Melton. On the 2020, in the midst of inside yet, so paced up and had to pull over. way she told me that the conducting active down the car park until she cord was wrapped around operations on Operation re-emerged, around 0115. As we were on a twisty road in our baby's neck but wasn't SHADER, 39 Sqn By now Lydia's contractions the countryside I kept driving tight and he was clearly not were getting stronger and for a minute or so until I found suffering with it (he wasn't personnel based at I could see a noticeable a side road to pull into, not crying but making lots of Creech AFB in Nevada difference in her demeanour. wanting to stop on the road in other noises). A few minutes took time to mirror the But, nevertheless, being case something came around a into this last drive, I suddenly minute of silence held in a first child, we were sent corner too fast. Again, I phoned realised that I did not know home and told that if the the midwives to tell them if I had a son or daughter, the UK in remembrance child wasn't born by 2200 that we had stopped because us not having found out of those key workers (on the 9th) we would have the baby was coming. Whilst during the pregnancy...Lydia who so sadly lost their to go to Lincoln Hospital for they tried to establish exactly confessed she did not know lives in the fight against an induction. As most first where we were I stopped the either and checked, it was Coronavirus. births have a long labour, we car, got out, shot around to the a son. readied ourselves for a long passenger side and opened the night ahead. door. Fortunately, the predawn Upon arriving at Melton, two light was sufficient that I did not midwives came out to help It was nearly 0200 by the need a torch and I could see the Lydia and our son (who was time we got home. Over head was already out! still attached to the cord) the next 2 and a half hours into the birthing centre in Lydia's contractions got What happened next is a little a sort of awkward 6 legged stronger and stronger, and hazy, thanks to the adrenaline, race. I followed them in and right from the get-go were but the baby arrived a moment once everyone was settled in 40 seconds to 1 minute later, which somehow, I the birthing suite, stood and long and only a minute managed to catch and hold shook with the adrenaline as apart. We tried some of on to. Our baby was born at I recounted the story of our the pain relief techniques around 0430. Having worked drive to them. we had been taught in our as a 999 call handler for East antenatal classes, but Lydia's Midlands Ambulance and been The whole Squadron wishes contractions were clearly fortunate enough to deliver Simon, Lydia and Jasper all pretty far along. a baby over the phone in this the best and many years of As they had jumped pretty job, I suddenly remembered happiness and good health.

10 InsightMAGAZINE InsightMAGAZINE 11 Anzac day A Service of Dedication was held in the RAF Waddington Memorial Garden to commemorate ANZAC Day on 25 Apr 20

NZAC Day honours Squadron RAAF Lancaster the members of Association. Padre Ian led the Athe Australian and service with a quote from CW New Zealand Army Bean, official historian for the (ANZAC) who served and ANZACs for both world wars, died in all wars, conflicts ‘What these men did nothing and peace keeping can alter now. The good and operations. the bad, the greatness and smallness of their story will Due to current restrictions stand. Whatever of glory it the ceremony was smaller contains nothing now can than previous years, lessen. It rises, as it will always however just as important. rise, above the mists of ages, An Officer from the Royal a monument to great-hearted Australian Air Force laid men; and, for their nation, a the wreath from 467-463 possession for ever’.

12 InsightMAGAZINE 12 InsightMAGAZINE raf reserve collection visit

A small team from the RAF Waddington Heritage Centre were lucky enough to receive an invite from the Curator at the RAF Museum Reserve Collection whom we then visited in February.

hilst the principal from various aircraft to more aim was to discuss propellers than you would Wbest practise for ever know what to do with display and recording of and a very comprehensive the disparate items that we wheel and tyre area. There was currently hold it was also a even furniture that had done chance to learn any lessons the rounds with competing Air that we posed, and we our history whilst being from the RAF Museum itself. Forces before gaining its own all came away with more a very important artefact RAF history. information and a greater that accurately reflects In addition to this we were understanding of the work the period and remains given the chance to tour With Ground Equipment, required to maintain our unrestored as a memorial the Reserve Collection itself training aids, aircraft engines, Heritage Centre. to the personnel who have which was an incredibly support vehicles and various served here alongside the interesting and rare forms of armament all being One of the larger items that many items that form the experience. The Collection is held in store along with a they hold is the substantial history of RAF Waddington. held in a large hangar and has myriad of other items all remains of a Short Stirling. separate specialist areas for related to the history of the It very much mirrors the Should anyone with to clothing and memorabilia. RAF it was a positive treasure large remains of Lancaster visit the RAF Waddington trove. The Curator was PD259 that is preserved Heritage Centre or get Within the hangar it was very incredibly knowledgeable and within the RAF Waddington involved in any capacity enlightening to see what had enthusiastic and was easily Heritage Centre. This is please just email WAD- been acquired over the years, able to answer any question a poignant reminder of [email protected]

InsightMAGAZINE 13 InsightMAGAZINE 13 and SNCOs of the RAF Regiment (including The Association Ground Gunners prior to 1942). of RAF Regiment Warrant • Serving, retired or former Warrant Officers and Officers and Senior SNCOs of other trade groups and other arms, who are or have been Non-Commissioned Officers on the posted strengths of RAF Regiment units, • Donation to the Kyrenia By way of introduction, this Association whilst holding those Branch RBL, for the British interacts with and supports all ranks. Memorial Book. • The ‘Centurion Dinner’ elements of the RAF Regiment family, Project 17 was this which takes place annually association’s contribution in March. through various charitable events, towards the RAF Regt’s 75th You can join via our web reunions and formal functions, both anniversary celebrations page at: in February 2017. ‘Project at home and overseas. 17’ achieved all of its aims, www.rafregtwoandsnco.org.uk resulting in: The that year. On 26 September Just scroll down and click on the Association 2020 we will conduct our • ‘Fallen Gunner’ in the ‘Become a Member’ link. was formed, 45th AGM and Reunion. Corps Memorial Garden with the Membership is open to: at the National Memorial You can also find us at: blessing of Arboretum. the Corps, • Serving Warrant Officers • Association www.facebook.com/ in 1975, and and SNCOs of the RAF Commemorative Tablet, rafregtwosandsncos/ conducted Regiment and the also in the Memorial its first Royal Auxiliary Air Force Garden. and at General Regiment. • Fallen Gunner Miniature Meeting on • Retired or former donated to RAF Regt WO www.facebook.com/groups/ 13 Sep of Warrant Officers and Sgts Mess Silver. rafregtwoandsnco/

and alternated between the After the event the two teams sat got an insight into what it would IBCC Visit and Escape Room together and discussed the Escape be like to be part of a bombing Activities. My group started the Room, identifying how decisions sortie and the effect these sorties day at Escape Lincoln, upon that were made impacted the had on both sides of the War. Ex arrival we split into two teams overall outcome. Following the visit to IBCC we used and began to exchange banter the exhibits to discuss the tactics on who would be the most We then compared this to the deployed by Bomber Command LINCOLN successful. The Escape Room effect tactical decisions in the and whether there was a place was titled ‘Plaza Casino’, a head workplace can have on strategic for them in today’s warfare – it is ESCAPES to head challenge that was not output – a useful and fun important to look at the lessons your traditional Escape Room. demonstration of a key lesson for of the past to inform decision On 10 Mar After the in-brief, both teams all leaders, followers and managers. making in the present day. were locked inside identical Before swapping activities, the two 20, ASWC HQ underground Casinos and the groups got together for lunch at Having never experienced Escape personnel aim was for each team to steal IBCC. My group managed not to Rooms or IBCC the day for me was as much money as they could give any clues on how to crack the a valuable personal development participated in a in the given hour. We walked Escape Room, despite constant opportunity. local FD Day visiting into the casino identifying a prying from the second group! The IBCC was my highlight of the separate locked room, we knew The IBCC staff were incredibly day, it reinforced the importance the International we had to open it, but how? accommodating, the food was of RAF history and why we should Bomber Command My team frantically started to great, and the view of the spire was be proud to wear the uniform. Centre (IBCC) and look for clues, but this was very something to behold. After lunch The Escape Rooms allowed me much individual effort. After we were ready to commence our to consider the way I approach Escape Lincoln, a bit of luck, the first clue was tour of IBCC. management and gave me some Escape Rooms. found, and we realised that the useful skills to take forward. Finally, individual approach was not We were greeted by our it provided the opportunity to working. The team got together enthusiastic and knowledgeable build relationships with people I bouncing ideas off each other tour guide who took us around the do not work alongside every day. The visits presented two and piece by piece we finally spire and provided detail into the different opportunities to broke into the vault with production of the memorial and A very enjoyable and insightful develop personnel. The aim 30mins remaining. The vault what each part represents. day – though it does help to be on of the IBCC segment was contained a vast number of The two most moving parts of the winning team! to identify the changes in safes, some opened by keys we the tour were the ‘Ribbon of Air Power since WWII and had found along the way and Remembrance’ and the ‘Walls deepen understanding of RAF others presenting new riddles. of Names’. They really hit home history. The aim of our visit the sacrifices that were made by to the Escape Rooms was to We came out of the vault so many. After the tour we took promote team cohesion within mentally drained, but also (and some time to further explore the the workplace and provide importantly to the competitive monument and take in the breath- an opportunity to develop types amongst us!) the winning taking views across Lincoln. leadership, followership and team, with an impressive management skills. £2,095,000 stolen - an amount To finish the day the group that could not be beaten by our explored the different exhibits in Throughout the day, personnel second group who faced the the Chadwick Centre at IBCC. With were split into two groups same challenge later in the day. a range of interactive exhibits, we

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Waddington Heath, Waddington, LN5 9LS Call 01522 305 482 taylorwimpey.co.uk #taylorwimpey We build the places you’re proud to call home * Photography shown is indicative of a typical Taylor Wimpey home and may include optional upgrades at an additional cost. Please speak to your sales executive for more details. InsightMAGAZINE 15 61730_TWEM - Waddington Heath RAF insight ad.indd 1 19/06/2020 09:18 Running Club

The Running Club is made up of personnel who represent a wide cross section of the Units and Sqns based at RAF Waddington and has been actively encouraging as many new runners as possible over the last year, in what has been a very successful year too.

ack to last summer in men’s team captained by Sgt Rob the Lincs Road Running Sim taking the overall win, the BLeague we were outright ladies team took third place along Station Winners with Ladies with FS Samantha Williams taking Team 1st Place and Men’s Team third spot in the lady’s veteran 3rd Place. The local Summer category and WO John Siddens League generally holds races on taking both first men’s veteran a Wednesday afternoon that are 50 category and RAF veteran about 10Km in length and what champion. In 2020 the 10 Mile is important here is the need Championships will be held at to get as many runners out RAF Coningsby in Oct so you will as possible as everyone who have the chance to take part in takes part gets to score for the inaugural race there, so please the team. So even if you know look out for notices that you are never going to nearer the time. trouble the top ten spots please was held just before Christmas, join in because in previous years The Cyprus International 4-day the start was in Bracebridge the team top spots have come Challenge Event is a staged Heath and was run in very down to very few points and, if running event, covering a boggy and wet conditions with nothing else, at all of our local distance slightly longer than several loops up and down the events you are guaranteed a a marathon, which includes Cliff along the Viking Way, with drink and chocolate bar at the road, trail and cross-country the final run up the hill being end. The Halton Hills has become running. It is an adventurous the one to the finish line. The a sporting tradition within RAF and challenging running event scoring system, which is new running circles and this year we with 4 different races. The Event to this year, for the overall prize comfortably won the team prize successfully combines a 6k time was instigated to bring balance back in Oct around a familiar trial, an 11k mountain trail run, to the Stations involved and gruelling course. We took a large a multi-terrain half marathon meant that a mix of runners team to race in the last ever distance and a 10k City Run over was the way ahead. The finish Henlow 10 which is a very historic the four days. The Ladies Team of was very tight, but Waddington race within the RAF running FS Ayshae Howes, Sgt Kelly Smith again retained the overall win, calendar and was first run in and Cpl Alex Brown took 1st Place albeit by a very tight margin. 1952 when it was organised as a against an International field of 15 challenge between runners from other ladies’ teams in Nov 19. Harking back towards the RAF Cardington and RAF Henlow, beginning of this article I 1984 saw the introduction of Over Winter we took part in the would ask that you please the RAF Ten Mile Championship. local Cross-Country League which consider taking part in at least There was a very good turnout varied from the, quite frankly, one Summer Road Run even for the final ever race and the flooded course at Coningsby if it is just to give it a go and race is an open one so there were to the Digby race that seemed new for this year will be a plenty of RAF teams represented to have a gale force headwind combined CO’s Cup and as well as civilian clubs attending. for at least three quarters of the Lincs Services event currently RAF Waddington had some distance. The hardest event was planned to be held at RAF considerable success with the easily the Waddington race which Waddington on 10 Jun. 16 InsightMAGAZINE 16 InsightMAGAZINE Drive away with a

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InsightMAGAZINE 17 Waddington Club Fair On 10 Feb 20, RAF Waddington hosted their first Clubs Fair in the Station Gym, displaying information and signposting a wide range of sports clubs, social clubs, community and volunteer groups available to personnel and their dependants.

In addition to the more Gaming, Netball and see mainstream clubs like what these clubs had to football and cricket the offer first-hand. Waddington event also showcased Gaming Society proved to more niche clubs including be a popular stand at the unit and help increase combat shooting and event. The club is going participation. With health parachuting. Volunteer from strength to strength and wellbeing becoming ever opportunities in the local with the club currently more prominent in the public community were also on finalising the installation of eye, joining a club can be an display including STEM and their facility in Wallace’s Bar, excellent way to socialise, Lincolnshire Emergency due to be complete in May. switch off from life’s stressors Blood Bikes Services, to and maybe even get fitter! I name a few. “Until you hold an event of wanted this event to run to this nature, I don’t think many show that there is a club to Around 200 Station people are aware of the wide suit all interests, personalities personnel, MOD civilians, range of clubs available to and meet likeminded people. dependants and them in the RAF. With many It is easy to fall into the same, contractors enjoyed seeing clubs available free of charge ordinary routine and I hope the opportunities available to personnel, or heavily this has shown attendees to them on their doorstep. discounted due to equipment how they can get involved in Many of the sports clubs and tuition being provided, it a club that they can become brought in their equipment is a shame people are missing passionate about.” for enthusiasts to have a out. I hope this event is the first go at. Individuals had the step to increase awareness Cpl Mike Jansen, chance to try Tug of War, of the clubs available on PEd Flt. Waddington Gaming Society offering the chance for people to try out their virtual reality systems.

COLEBY C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL “Where Children Come First”

WHAT CAN WE OFFER?  Experienced EYFS, KS1 and KS2 teaching and support staff  Smaller class sizes  On–site Breakfast Club and Off-site After School provision  Longstanding links with RAF Waddington & service families  Weekly ‘enrichment’ sessions in Spanish and sports [with specialist sports coaches] as well as regular, scheduled swimming provision  ‘Good’ Ofsted rating with an ‘Outstanding’ rating from our Church Schools Inspection  Results comparable with, if not better, than other local schools  Strong links with local primary and secondary schools  A ‘Values’ based education  Strong links with the local church

** EARLY YEARS FOUNDATION STAGE OPEN SESSIONS **

If you have a child who is due to start school in September 2021, or wish to have a look at our EYFS provision, we warmly invite you to our EYFS drop-in open sessions on:

Monday, 5th October from 9:30—11:30 Wednesday, 7th October from 9:30—11:30

Coleby C of E Primary School, Rectory Road, Coleby, Lincoln LN5 0AJ Tel 01522 810627 [email protected] www.coleby.lincs.sch.uk @colebycofe Coleby Primary School

18 InsightMAGAZINE probably not make it back to Kinloss, took the decision to ditch the aircraft into the Moray Firth. After ditching, the aircraft stayed afloat for several minutes and all seven crew were able to abandon the aircraft and get into one of their survival rafts. In a moment of serendipity, an RAF Sea King happened to be airborne in the same area as the stricken Nimrod. This meant that rescue was on hand within just 10 minutes of the distress call being made. XW666 broke into two pieces and sank to the bottom of the Moray Firth. It was subsequently recovered, and the damaged cockpit is now on display at the Hello everyone from 51 Sqn. We hope that you South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum are all keeping safe in these unprecedented in Doncaster. Under Project Anneka, XW666 was replaced times. Despite the current situation with COVID-19, with a re-roled Nimrod MR2. and while maintaining our operational output, it In April 1997, XV249 was delivered to 51 Sqn and served has been a relatively busy period for the Sqn. alongside XW664 and XW665 until the retirement of the to MOD, Wg Cdr Nevin has now hard- Nimrod R1 fleet in 2011. arrived on 51 Sqn and is slowly, working due to Covid-19, restrictions staff in the The subsequent inquiry starting to meet all of his team NHS. concluded that ditching the on 51 Sqn. If you aircraft was the correct call. know any organisations or The aircraft would have likely As with everyone, the Covid-19 individuals that in need of face crashed before any attempt at a situation has had an impact on shields, please contact landing could have been made. the day-to-day operations on Flt Lt Joseph Wainwright. The actions of Art Stacey have and off the squadron. since been studied by pilots the This unique period has also world over in what is described It has however, also provided given us time to reflect on some as a 'textbook ditching'. opportunities for our personnel of the Sqn’s history. For his gallantry in the air, he was to help towards combatting the awarded The Air Force Cross. virus by assisting those in our The month of May saw the Whilst reflecting on the incident, local area and providing support Sqn commemorate 25 years Flt Lt Stacey mentioned that he to NHS workers. Some examples since the ditching of XW666, took solace in the words of an of this are: Volunteers from the one of 51 Sqn’s former Nimrod experienced colleague, who Sqn helped a meals-on-wheels R1s. On 16th May 1995, XW666 had come to visit him while service to provide food to was conducting a test flight recovering in hospital. He said, elderly and vulnerable people following maintenance at RAF “You old bugger... it's a good in the local area as well as Kinloss, with seven 51 Sqn job it was you and not some generously donating to a local personnel on board. younger person who might food bank in April. If anyone The aircraft’s Captain was Flt Lt have gone for the runway!” would like to donate, or help, Art Stacey. Approximately 30 please visit lincoln.foodbank.org. minutes into the flight, a fire uk for further information. broke out in No. 4 engine, which quickly spread to the No. 3 In addition to this, Flt Lt engine. All four fire suppressant Wainwright, one of the Sqn’s systems were deployed, yet the JEngOs, has set up a 3D printer fire continued to escalate in both farm in the Squadron’s hangar engines. A rear crew member for producing protective even reported that the face shields for NHS workers. appeared to be melting. Using commercially available First and foremost, we’d like to ANYCUBIC i3 Mega printers, the Despite being just 45 miles extend a very warm welcome Sqn has managed to supply from RAF Kinloss, Flt Lt Stacey, our new Officer Commanding, multiple GP surgeries and care realising that the aircraft would Wg Cdr Simon Nevin, who homes with face shields. arrived in post at the beginning of May. After starting his RAF The face shields are an open career as a non-commissioned source design which has seen Air Traffic Controller, Wg Cdr widespread use and have Nevin commissioned in 2003 resulted in many derivatives and became a Navigator initially now in use. The advantages of flying on the C-130 Hercules additive manufacture means aircraft at RAF Lyneham, before that rapidly setting up, or undertaking a Staff post at changing a production line, is MOD, London. simple and low impact. While we cannot match the output of More recently, some of you may a conventional factory, we feel remember him from his time on it is important to do our part to 14 Sqn flying with the Shadow help address the PPE shortages R1. Following another posting and show our support to the InsightMAGAZINE 19 Arnhem On the 17th September 1944, British, American, Dutch and Polish forces came together in the biggest airbourne assault in history.

ome 41,628 men took connect their stories with our part in Operation Market experiences. SGarden, to capture strategic bridges around We were also privileged to Arnhem, and to hasten the be invited to march in a 75th end of the war. During the anniversary parade through carnage of battle, 30,500 the streets of Eindhoven. men lost their lives from all This is one of the memories sides. It was the bloodiest that sticks with me, as the operation of the war. watching crowd must have numbered several thousand, On 17th September 2019, young and old. All had 75 years after the events, 16 turned up to celebrate Airmen and women from freedom and sacrifice. As we RAF Waddington followed marched, the crowds clapped the journey of the men of and cheered and thanked Operation Market Garden. us for our service. This felt We traced their path from slightly odd, because we Joe's Bridge in the south, to were there to thank them for John Frost Bridge in Arnhem. their sacrifice and service. Along the journey, those Such was the depth of their on the trip shared stories of appreciation for those who heroism, tragedy and loss at came before us. the very locations in which they happened. Our time drew to a close at the Hartenstein Hotel, where During our journey we were the allied forces set up their privileged to meet and HQ during the Op. We joined parade with some of the airmen and women from veterans who fought in the Arnhem Eagle, and some Op itself. It was a humbling veterans, as a new memorial moment to be able to shake to the fallen was unveiled at their hands, and in some way the museum.

2020 Ins InsightightMAGAZINEMAGAZINE Tempus Fugit or Déjà vu?

How did it become April so quickly? It seems only a few weeks ago unsurprising that V(AC) Sqn has said a few good-byes to that V(AC) Sqn was reflecting on the successes and experience of our people. In no way wishing dedicated FD / AT week last Summer; and yet, when trawling the Sqn to disrespect anyone who may be missed out, the most diary to jog the memory, the last 6-months or so has been just as busy notable departures included: and just as productive. Flt Lt Chris Edmondson, who started the Test Pilot course at Boscombe Down; SAC Matt Boulby and SAC Lauren Kendle, perationally, V(AC) Sqn straight-forward, resulting separation that little bit easier. who were both promoted to has continued to support in a frustrating few weeks of An old friend of the Sqn Cpl and posted to Akrotiri and OOp SHADER and Op investigation and testing to also joined Sent Det during Brize Norton respectively; Flt Lt ROCKHARD, both deployed try and identify the root cause December and January – WO Jake Bradley joined the SALAM and from our home at RAF and return the aircraft to the Tony Crowe. Having retired programme in MODSAP, taking Waddington. Whilst the detail Forward Fleet. Our excellent from regular service in 2018, his family to Saudi Arabia in of this enduring support is industry partner Raytheon Mr Crowe had become a the process; CT John Bullimore rightly kept for the Sqn F541, it worked hand-in-glove with Reservist with HQ Int Reserves, was promoted to FS, moving is an open secret that Sentinel V(AC) Sqn engineers, sharing passing on his considerable just up the A15 to RAFAT at has, at times, been the only the frustrations and challenges, knowledge of SAR / GMTI to Scampton; he was joined a few asset able to deliver the niche but also the success, when in the latest generation of Int weeks later by Cpl Ben Pearson capability that it does. This has mid-November ZJ691 returned Analysts. However, when V(AC) on his promotion to Sgt; finally, not been lost on our Higher to the flying programme with a Sqn submitted a Request for Sgt Rob Booth was picked up HQs and coalition allies as the UK training sortie. Reservist Support, knowing to Chief Tech, he remained on many plaudits and laudatory Staying with engineering news, that a potential gap in A2 was the Sqn becoming the Avionics letters testify. As well as the CT Chris Riley became the first coming, he volunteered to be Trade Manager. Sqn deploying again, there Sentinel GE to successfully mobilised over Christmas and have also been a few Individual achieve the G346 qualification New Year ‘because he felt like 2020 also saw a resumption Augmentee deployments as on type, more commonly it’! As is often the case with of support to Op ROCKHARD, FS Johnny Fullard, PO Leigh known as the ‘Reds and small fleets such as Sentinel, the effectively meaning that Williams, FS Chris Diball and Sgt Greens’. Normally something same people feature on several Sentinel was supporting two Joe Geeson all took their turn as associated with JEngOs and not occasions over the years and named Ops from two locations. the ISR CAOC LNO with 83 EAG easily achieved, it is to Chris’s Mr Crowe found a number of Whilst this level of activity at Al Udeid. considerable credit that he familiar faces deployed with brought its own challenges, has achieved this significant him for those few weeks. it also gave everyone, from Away from this activity, qualification. Alongside this, all sections and flights, clear September saw V(AC) Sqn take Sgt Jase Holt qualified as a GE As 2020 arrived, during the focus. These additional flights part in Ex COBRA WARRIOR, and was almost immediately AF / BF checks following one also meant there was plenty alongside Italian, German and deployed to augment Sent Det. of the first sorties of the new of flying for the crews and RAF Typhoons, Israeli and USAF Jase’s addition to the Sqn’s GE year, SAC Tom Jarvis spotted with aircraft in use, plenty of F-15s and various other aircraft cadre is an important step in an issue with the mountings ‘spanner time’ for the engineers types in a series of complex and the plans to sustain Sentinel of the left-hand cockpit seat. as well. This ‘two locations’ demanding COMAO scenarios through to OSD in Mar 21. In a classic case of taking the posture was somewhat replicating the degraded right actions despite something reminiscent of V(AC) Sqn’s and contested environment As Christmas approached, that was not part of his normal HERRICK days, where Sentinel expected in a near-peer and knowing that we were to routine, he not only recognised cut its teeth in the Skies over conflict. For many of the crews, remain deployed throughout the seriousness of the issue but Afghanistan. This period in this was the first time they had December and on into ensured it was raised to the the Sqn’s history was formally exercised with such a variety January 20, plans were made appropriate Trade Manager to recognised on 24 Mar when of different types and nations to hold concurrent Christmas initiate remedial action. For his CAS announced the award of for several years, which made functions. In the end the Sqn attentiveness and foresight, he the Battle Honour ‘Afghanistan for rewarding and challenging Ents Team couldn’t quite get was rightfully recognised with 2008 to 2014’ to V(AC) Sqn. flying for all. The sustained both events at the same time the award of a 903 EAW Flight flying rate also enabled several and the deployed function was Safety Award. Finally, at the time of writing LCR to CR upgrades and Tac held the day after the UK one; this, every one of us is adapting Checks to be completed. In nevertheless, all V(AC) Sqn were Back in to UK, our industry to life under COVID restrictions amongst COBRA WARRIOR, Sqn able to share the festive spirit partner Raytheon, reaffirmed and I am sure that other FEs Ldr Si Coates started his OCU with friends and colleagues. the close working relationship here at RAF Waddington have (OCC 19-1) having returned to From the outset, a Christmas they and we share with the their own stories of people Sentinel after a tour on 92 Sqn. deployment was known about gift of a presentational photo who are doing just that little bit and several people ‘stepped- album. The previous version more. For V(AC) Sqn, our ‘NHS Our Engineers have been up’, volunteering to be away had been presented to the Sqn hero’ is Sgt Charlie Heron who equally busy. In October over the festive period and by BAe Systems when it flew has been given permission to ZJ691 completed a series let others return home. This Tornado F3s and Raytheon had increase his availability with of scheduled maintenance wasn’t lost on those who, for wanted to record Sentinel’s the Lincolnshire Emergency packages which were followed whatever reason, were in the service life in a similar way. Flt Medical Response (LEMR) by TEMPEST testing and a UK and in addition to a series Lt Ben Wildblood received the teams. Charlie has been a First recalibration of the aircraft’s of welfare shoe boxes being album on behalf of OC V(AC) Responder with LEMR for over Stress Management System filled for those deployed, many Sqn (who was deployed) and 5 years and the additional (even aircraft have feelings!). people also did their own now has the task of capturing support the charity gives to Whilst the ground-based welfare parcels for their mates, the last few years of Sqn history. the East Midlands Ambulance elements were all completed either way, these small gestures Service has been vital during with little issue, the airborne of kindness were gratefully Considering the timeframe the current crisis. elements were not as received as it made their of this article, it is probably

InsightMAGAZINE 21 Belton Military Covenant Signing

On 22 January 2020 Flt Lt Batey and Cpl Garside of RAF Waddington Force Protection Training Flight attended Belton Woods Hotel to support the Almarose Hotel Group signing of the Armed Forces Military Covenant.

The Military Covenant represents a mutually beneficial pledge that acknowledges the sacrifices given by servicemen and women during their career, whilst providing opportunities for personnel outside of the military afterwards. The signing was conducted by the Chief People Officer of Almarose Hotels and Resorts, Mrs Bobby Davis alongside the Inspector of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Gp Capt Gavin Hellard. The location of the signing was unknowingly steeped in military history and served as a fitting setting. Belton Park as it once was, has supported the Armed Forces in a training and administration capacity since the First World War. It provided a training centre for the Machine Gun Corps throughout World War One before fittingly transitioning to RAF Belton Park during World War Two, going on to become the depot for the newly formed Corps of the RAF Regiment in 1942 shortly after their Royal Warrant was signed by King George VI. RAF Belton Park closed in 1946 and the RAF Regiment relocated to RAF Catterick in Yorkshire where they remained until 1994 when they once again relocated to our current home at RAF Honington.

22 InsightMAGAZINE Belton Military COVID-19: WE ARE HERE TO HELP

In these challenging times, we’re here to support serving personnel, vulnerable veterans and their families.

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The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109).

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