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The Magazine of the Royal Air Force Police

The Magazine of the Royal Air Force Police

Provost Parade Issue 1 2016

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ROYAL

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 1 10/05/2016 11:57 Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 2 10/05/2016 11:58 Provost Contents Parade

Editorial Team Foreword ...... 4 Editorial ...... 4 Chairman of the Journal Gp Capt K Bailey PM(RAF) Honours and Awards ...... 5 95991 6066 RAFP-HQ PM The RAF Police in the Middle East ...... 6

Editor WO Stew Coppard Bids Farewell ...... 8 Sal Davidson RAF Special Investigations and 95991 7762 Intelligence Branch ...... 9 RAFP-HQ SO2 Engagement RAFP Close Protection Embraces a Assistant Editor New Home ...... 10 WO S Coppard 95991 6131 Inter Skill at Arms Meeting ...... 11 RAF Police at RAF Akrotiri ...... 20 RAFP-HQ PMWO London Poppy Day ...... 11 Life in the Fast Lane ...... 22 Provost Parade Shop 2IC Exercise SAFEGUARD ...... 12 FS J Lane Visit to Bletchley Park ...... 23 93835 4217 3PW Gets Teeth ...... 12 Exercise CORNISH CHALLENGE ...... 24 02392 284217 DSPG-ATS-SyFlt-Instr2 Op NIGHTSAFE ...... 13 X Runner Winter Warrior 2016 ...... 24 Escapade...... 14 Sales Manager Go Karting Competition ...... 25 Sgt C Teague Op FORTRESS ...... 15 603 (City of Edinburgh) Sqn RAuxAF ...... 26 93835 4258 02392 284258 Exercise MAGIC CARPET 2016 ...... 16 Opening of Training Facility ...... 28 DSPG-ATS-SyFlt-Instr7 Response to Road Traffic Collision ...... 17 My Life in the RAF (so far) ...... 30 Curator of the RAF Police Museum 'The Millies' ...... 18 DSPG ...... 32 Sgt S Wilkinson/Cpl I Gallagher 93835 4803/4675 MPGS RAF Valley Firewalk ...... 18 Canine Training Sqn ...... 34 02392 284803/4675 RAF Police Rubgy Vs DSPG-ITS-RAFPIC-Instr8 Military Working Dogs Hydrotherapy ...... 36 RAF Firefighters Rugby ...... 19 The Air PSYA Campaign...... 37 Future Submissions Address: Editor Provost Parade HQ RAFP SO2 Engagement Force Protection HQ Provost RAF Honington Parade Issue 1 2016 IP31 1EE Tel: 01359 239560 ext 7762 Email: [email protected]

Provost Parade is not an official publication and the views expressed in this magazine, unless otherwise stated, do not reflect MoD, © This magazine contains offi cial information and should be Command or Station policy and are the treated with discretion by the recipient. No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine personal views of the authors. No part of can be accepted by the publishers or printers. Advertisements this publication may be reproduced without are included in good faith. Published by Forces and Corporate Publishing Ltd, Hamblin House, Hamblin Court, Rushden, the permission of the editor or publisher. THE MAGAZINE OF THE POLICE Northamptonshire NN10 0RU. While every effort is made to ensure that Tel: 01933 419994 Fax: 01933 419584. E-mail: [email protected] advertisers are bona fida, no responsibility Managing Director: Ron Pearson for the quality of goods or services offered Managing Editor: Katie Mordue by them can be accepted by the publisher or Cover picture: Design: Amy Leverton editorship of the magazine. Sales Manager: Sally Haynes Personnel from RAF Brize Norton with the Atlas A400M Aircraft Provost Parade 3

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 3 10/05/2016 11:58 Provost Marshal (RAF) and Editorial Commander RAF Police

hank you all for taking the Gp Capt Bailey time to submit articles. Once again, there was a surplus, so for those who supplied Life in the RAF Police is like being at a train station and constantly content that did not make theT final edition, please don’t let this surrounded by arrivals and departures. Now it is time for my deter you from submitting in the future. This choice means we have departure and in the words of William Shakespeare, “parting is the strongest publication possible. such sweet sorrow”. I am grateful to the Squadron Media Reps. They have taken a proactive stance, bringing potential stories to t has been an honour and privilege to be my attention and to their station’s PM(RAF) and Cdr RAF Police during a time Media & Communication Officers of many challenges and change. During who possess the knowledge our journey, we have seen the withdrawal and contacts to best fulfil these from combat operations in engagement opportunities locally. Iand we have been inspected by both HMIP and This support is invaluable and I HMIC. We have commenced Op SHADER in consider them my eyes and ears out and whilst experiencing together the on the squadrons. tensions associated with the New Employment Model and SDSR. However, above all, we have The magazine depends on survived and flourished despite the turbulence advertising and we are pleased to and uncertainty. It has been a rollercoaster strengthen our relationship with of emotions, with some low points, but many Eukanuba as they support the more highs, including the reintroduction of the work of the RAF Police in a number RAFP Dog Trials, Exercise Far East Griffin, the RAF of ways. Please ensure that if you Police at Home Day, graduations and multiple purchase a product or service that awards ceremonies. is advertised in the Provost Parade, you mention the publication to the I am especially grateful to the immense provider so they can see the tangible contribution made by the RAF Police to the benefits of their advertising with us. ever-increasing aviation security tasks and the stoic dedication of our personnel employed on I hope you enjoy this edition and protective security and military working dog its varied stories which cover the duties, whose significant contribution to UK RAF Police in the UK and overseas, security is frequently overlooked. Although at work and on expeditions and every crime is a tragedy, I am proud of the exercises. Again, I feel it encapsulates remarkable achievements and investigative the breadth of activities you success attained by our GPD, SIIB and CI undertake and shows respect for personnel supported by our intelligence, Vice President of the RAF Police Association the history, ethos and values that forensics and covert law enforcement teams. and the various dinners, social events and underpin the Force. I have been delighted with the increasing parades I have attended, but especially the operational utility of the RAF Police Reserve 30th Anniversary commemorations. Despite Please keep the articles coming personnel who are scheduled to fill 10% of our some difficult times, I have cherished my in for the next edition at any time. enduring operational deployments and backfill involvement with the Association and as I There is no requirement to wait for 10% of our deployed personnel. We have also prepare to handover command the aim of the calling notice; in fact, I much deployed our first reservist on close protection “perpetual comradeship” resonates with me prefer to receive a steady stream duties, which will reduce the pressure on our strongly. I have been the Director of the throughout the course of the year. small cohort of valuable specialist. RAF Police Museum since 2007 and have Not only does this mean events can I remain grateful for the strong support of decided it is an appropriate time to relinquish be written up when they are fresh in the MPGS(Air) in conducting their important my responsibilities. I am most grateful to your mind, it affords an opportunity duties with the utmost professionalism and everyone in the RAFP and RAFPA who have to use stories via other channels in a my civil service personnel without whose supported and assisted me in the creation timely manner. For the next edition, unfailing dedication we would not achieve and maintenance of the Museum over the last we need articles to cover the April – success. In particular, I would like to thank our 9 years. September timeframe. typists, passes and permits staff, vetting clerks and kennel assistants who quietly perform On 24 May 16, I handover command to Gp Capt As a reminder, photos should their important tasks everyday without fuss Steve Horne who is a highly experienced and be attached separately as jpegs or recognition. The superb work undertaken competent and I am sure the RAF Police (300 dpi), not embedded within across the RAF Police was recently reviewed by will continue to flourish under his command. I your document and captioned HMIC. They concluded that our leadership, case wish him every success. I depart for a specialist accordingly – to include the names management and intelligence processes were security role supporting the , but I of the subjects. excellent and our personnel were proficient am already looking forward to attending the in their duties. The inspectors were especially RAF Police 100 year celebrations in 2018. My Finally, please send in any feedback impressed by our deliberate operations and our final quote is taken from Mahatma Gandhi you have regarding the Provost ability to support demanding levels of aviation who succinctly captured how I feel about Parade. It’s good to know if we’re security tasks worldwide. The success of this my departure. “There are no goodbyes for us. hitting the mark or whether we need inspection is a fitting tribute to the hard work Wherever you are, you will always be in my to make any adjustments. conducted by my personnel every day. heart”. I wish you and your families the very best for the future. Enjoy! Throughout my time as PM(RAF), I have particularly enjoyed being the Honorary Fiat Justitia

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 4 10/05/2016 11:58 HONOURS AND AWARDS PRESENTED TO RAF POLICE AT RAF COLLEGE CRANWELL

The Award Winners and Presenters

RAF Police from across the Service recently received their and OC, Sqn Ldr Lee Wales was delighted to accept it on behalf of his Honours and Awards at a ceremony held in the Rotunda Sqn. Mr Holewell said: “After the first inspection, of which I will not go in to at College Hall which was attended by family, friends the findings, I was not surprised to see professionalism and commitment everywhere. This leads me to say that I completely understand why the and work colleagues of all those who were honoured on Provost Marshal holds this event and it is a privilege to have been invited.” the day. Fittingly, the next presenter was Gp Capt Bailey who had a number of Returning this year to present awards was the Director of Service Provost Marshal (RAF) Commendations to award. The recipients were; Prosecutions, Mr Andrew Cayley CMG QC. He was joined by Detective WO Nigel Bostock, RAFP HQ, Sgt Kris Gaertner, SIIB (S), Cpl Ben Griffiths, Chief Superintendent (retired) Paul Holewell BA (Hons), Force Liaison RAF Leeming, Cpl Robin Beal, 603 Sqn, Cpl Kelly Veryard, SIIB (S), Cpl Neil Lead (Armed Services and British Overseas Territories) at Her Majesty’s Skeldon, RAF Boulmer, Cpl Laura Stirling, RAFP HQ and Cpl Rachel Free, Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC), Force Protection Force Commander, RAFC Cranwell. Air Cdre Andrew Hall and the Provost Marshal (RAF) Gp Capt Kevin Bailey. Team awards followed and it was the duty of one representative to First to present a number of awards was Mr Cayley. He took up his collect these on behalf of their colleagues: present position in December of 2014 following a legal career that has taken him to various locations around the world. WO Alex Fowler, MWD Section – Sgt Julie Crole, RAF Waddington stationed at RAF Henlow, received a Royal Warrant and a Long Service MPGS – SSgt Darren Philips, RAF High Wycombe and Good Conduct Medal. Sqn Ldr Meta Waters, OC Professional PS Section – Flt Lt Rob Morter, RAF Brize Norton Standards Department based at RAF Henlow, was next to the stage to Op SPELT – Sqn Ldr Dino Filo, SIIB (N) receive the Wilfred Bowes Trophy for her department in recognition of Cyber Forensics – FS Chris Bambrough, RAF Henlow outstanding investigative performance. RAFP At Home Day Committee – Flt Lt Steve Forbes, Main Building – MOD The De Putron Charity Trophy is given in recognition of support to charity MWD Trials 2015 – Sqn Ldr Lee Wales, No 5 Sqn HQ, RAFC Cranwell work and was awarded to Special Investigations & Intelligence Branch HQ 6 Sqn – OC, Sqn Ldr Avril Porter, RAF Marham (South), based at RAF Halton and it was their OC, Sqn Ldr Toby Steward, Op VISIONIST – Sgt who accepted the award on behalf of his team. Mr Caley commented: “I Brian Kiernan, SIIB (S) am extremely impressed with the quality and variety of work that is done by the RAF Police. Furthermore the charitable endeavours done by the RAFP as Finally, Air Cdre well as the MPGS, is incredibly humbling and very impressive.” Andrew Hall had the pleasure of presenting Mr Holewell was the next guest presenter. He served nearly 33 years as the RAF Police a police officer before retiring in October 2014. He carried on working at Association President’s HMIC as an Associate Inspector and was the team leader for the RAFP’s Trophy to Flt Lt Mark recent inspection. There were four AOC 2 Gp Commendations presented Wareing who had to; Sgt Mark George, RAFP HQ, Cpl Andrew Duke, RAF Northolt, FS journeyed down from Steve King, RAF Benson and finally, Cpl Dave Taylor, RAFP HQ. The RAFP RAF Lossiemouth Reservist’s Trophy was awarded to Flt Lt Ash Peplow who had travelled on behalf of No 4 down from 603 (City of Edinburgh) Sqn. RAFP Sqn who had successfully clinched The final award for Mr Holewell to present was The De Putron Trophy. this award. This is awarded annually to the RAF Police Sqn that is judged to have demonstrated outstanding professionalism throughout the year. It is awarded to the regular or reserve RAF Police Sqn that has shown the Sqn Ldr Lee Wales greatest achievement, leadership, exceptional standards and endeavours. proudly holds the De This year, it was the turn of No 5 RAFP Sqn to scoop this coveted award Putron Trophy

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 5 10/05/2016 11:58 The 83 Expeditionary Air Group (83 EAG) consists of four not been established long and is still under development, it’s an exciting role that allows an enthusiastic and keen individual to play a significant subordinate Expeditionary Air Wings (EAW). 901 EAW at Al Udeid part in UK Military Operations. Air Base, , 902 EAW at Mussana Air Base, Oman, 903 EAW at RAF Akrotiri, and 906 EAW at Minhad Airbase, UAE. It delivers UK air effect and contributes to the operational aims of Bahrain ATSy JNCO – Cpl Jess Andrews defeating ISIL, delivering security and stability in the Middle East. The RAF Police operational footprint is fully integrated across all four EAWs, providing the full spectrum of RAF Police capabilities across aviation security, law enforcement, counter intelligence and protective security.

Here is an insight into the everyday lives of the RAFP personnel who are assigned in a variety of roles…..

83 EAG - Counter Intelligence Field Team – Sgt Mick Shave

The counter intelligence field team (CIFT) is part of 83 EAG’s intelligence capability and comprises Sgt Mike Shave and Cpl Chris Hepple who provide a valuable resource in the maintenance of the Joint Operating Area (JOA) threat picture. CIFT conducts threat analysis, observes local atmospherics, demographics and security posture on key locations utilised by UK personnel whilst travelling off unit for welfare or Force Development within Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Detached Operating Base (DOB) Muharraq is located within the Although currently located at (AMAB), CIFT is a JOA perimeter of Bahrain International Airport alongside a substantial US asset and can be tasked anywhere within the JOA. In Feb 16, CIFT was presence, close to the Bahraini customs and immigration post and tasked to provide a CI capability within Bahrain in the lead up to the 5th benefits from US Force Protection measures. As well as an important anniversary of the Shia uprising that saw large civil unrest within the airfield and passenger handling capability, Muharraq also provides a country. During this period there were several protests that, on occasion, cargo transhipment point managed by Royal Navy Forward Logistics Site developed into riots utilising petrol bombs and bricks, primarily aimed at (RNFLS) personnel which enables the continued support to operations in the local police force. However, the threat that UK personnel could get the JOA. caught in the middle was a high possibility. As a 901 EAW A Flt asset, I work within the RNFLS, Bahrain, alongside CIFT was able to assess the impact these protests were having on the key two RAF Movers and three Royal Navy logistics personnel. I am solely locations that UK military personnel frequented within Bahrain, providing responsible for all ATSy commitments for the island. With three KIPION In valuable information on the atmospherics and increase of security Theatre Scheduled (KITS) flights a week, my primary role is to process any posture, giving commanders a complete picture to take decisions outbound PAX, provide relevant briefings to inbound and transiting PAX regarding force protection. and ensure overall passenger safety.

Intelligence Analyst Role – Sgt Kris Skates

The role of the RAFP Intelligence Analyst, embedded within the Coalition’s Combined Air and Space Operations Centre (CAOC) at Al Udeid, was established to provide analytical assistance to the force protection (FP) element within 83 EAG, whilst providing analytical support to the CIFT located in the UAE. The position plays a fundamental role within the counter intelligence sphere ensuring constant liaison with USAF SF and AFOSI is maintained, allowing for the collection and dissemination of Middle East reporting. The daily routine of the analyst is to collate current FP intelligence pertaining to Op SHADER and Op KIPION, whilst producing analytical products for military personnel to understand the current ground threat at their attended location. The analyst collates all intelligence pertaining to the 83 EAG AOR in order to assist in producing assessments, intelligence requirements (IRs) and identifying intelligence gaps for the CIFT and 83 EAG personnel conducting FP security surveys. During periods of Relief in Peace (RIP), certain challenges often present The analyst attends a daily coalition FP meeting to provide an assessment themselves but a well cemented working relationship and frequent on current operations within the Middle East. Although this position has liaison with international agencies ensures suitable Passenger Holding 6 Provost Parade

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 6 10/05/2016 11:58 Facilities are provided and outgoing passengers are processed promptly and vigilantly. Working alongside host nation employees can be testing at times, but I have been able to quickly adapt to their working practices. An additional part of my role is to provide support to the who work within the Maritime Component Command (UKMCC). Assisting in any on-going active investigations adds a further dimension to my position within theatre and allows me to use my SIIB skill-set in a new environment. Having the opportunity to work alongside the Royal Navy has certainly broadened my wider Service knowledge. It can take a while to become accustomed to the art of ‘Jack Speak’ and even several weeks into my deployment, I am still regularly asking for translations! Working within such a small team allows us to easily establish a routine that suits us all and when one of us is particularly busy, the others are more than happy to lend a hand. We effectively optimise the resources available to us, which can be far from ideal, but having continued support and close working relationships with your colleagues makes for a stress free and enjoyable deployment.

As the 901 EAW JNCO, Cpl Rhys Wynn claims the role needs him to be a ‘Jack of all trades’, with a little bit of everything – except dogs!

My time is taken up processing the passengers and cargo for flights throughout the week and providing Op PLUNDER. Add to that general policing duties, a lot of protective security work, vetting, liaising with the US Security Forces, arrivals briefs, security education briefs, Force Protection Security Team Visits - as you can imagine, time flies! Although I am the only RAF Policeman on 901 EAW Op KIPION, the guys at HQ 83 EAG are nearby and willing to help out when needed. Fortunately, the Americans have built a modern air terminal to enable the smooth flow of passengers in and out of and kindly allow us to utilise their processing facilities, which makes ATSy run fairly smoothly - as long as you don’t upset the Qatari Immigration Officers. Close liaison with the US Security Forces and Investigators is vital as they’re responsible for general police duties and discipline at Al Udeid Air Si, being the Establishment Security Officer, puts him in direct liaison Base and I tend to be the first port of call when they need to speak to a with the Unit’s CO, advising and guiding the execs on all aspects of ‘Brit’. security and policing. Dave carries out all the normal duties you would expect a PS JNCO to carry out, plus the interviewing and vetting of locally Protective Security work is busy with a higher operational workload employed civilians and the delivery of the Unit Security Officers (USyO) than you would find at home, with a whole spectrum of material and programme. We’re in regular contact with members of the Royal Air Force classifications to deal with. A highlight is working in the CAOC. When I of Oman (RAFO), particularly the FP element and we ensure the smooth enter, my presence is loudly announced with a flashing light going off running of visitors and freight onto the unit. This can prove difficult and people running like ferrets to cover their computer screens! at times with the different languages and working practices, but, it is entertaining! The job involves an element of diplomacy when dealing with the Host Nation Security Forces (Qatar) as well as the Air Base (US) Security Forces, As part of our FP duties, we carry out daily checks of the 32 km fence line. who have a more ‘robust’ view of policing than we do at home. An arrest The region experiences heavy rain in the early part of the year, making here often involves several weapons pointed at a person. As well as both the inner track and the fence line’s integrity hard to maintain with having to adhere to UK policy and clearances, US policy and clearances the flow of water leaving a trail of disruption in its path. It certainly puts also need to be followed in order to allow personnel access to locations our off road driving skills to the test. and material, so things in Al Udeid can take a little longer than expected. FPST duties find us visiting the historical, cultural and various centres of The Force Protection Security Team (FPST) visits enable a bit of time amenity in our AOR. Taking in the atmospherics, watching what is going off base and into where driving is an experience! The visits have on around you and liaising with security staff. This very important duty, enabled us to create a white and black list of locations that UK personnel ensures the safety of 902 EAW personnel while they take some well- are able to visit and ones to avoid. Currently, a local Security Adviser is earned down time. being developed so that personnel travelling off base have up to date, accurate security and threat information on locations that they wish to As part of the on-going collaboration with the RAFO, Dave attended a visit. I have not managed to find a way of adding a roving tiger to it yet Security Awareness Seminar held on unit, manning a stand displaying though after a recent incident in Doha where a pet tiger had escaped basic items used by the RAFP to protect our information, documents and was wandering down the road through one of the city’s many traffic and physical assets. The seminar was attended by senior officers from jams! the RAFO, Royal Omani Navy and the Omani Army with military, local government and civilian companies providing stands. The CinC of the The FPST visits are vital as Doha is an ever changing city with many parts Royal Omani Police showed particular interest. The day was a great under construction due to the awarding of the Football World Cup and it success, cementing the relationship the RAFP have with RAFO Security is not uncommon for a new road or building to have popped up. Force.

902 EAW – Cpl Dave Johnson 906 EAW – Cpl Dave Wyllie

902 EAW gives operational support to Royal Navy Air assets, operating in 906 EAW is the 2nd Air Line of Communication for the broader Middle the Joint Area of Operations. It gives ground and technical support to East. Located on the Emirati Al Minhad Airbase, the is approximately visiting aircraft, utilising the 44 personnel drawn from all trades of the RAF 250 personnel strong and enclaved within Donnelly Lines, the UK’s based within 902 EAW. domestic compound. The RAF Police are integrated within the unit’s FP and Sy Flt along with the RAF Regt training team and a pan RAF guard The RAF Police Section is a small and perfectly formed team of two, Sgt force. Made up of three A/Cpls, one JNCO PS, one SNCO PS and a Flt Lt Si Wilkinson and Cpl Dave Johnson, who are both PS qualified and on six Provost Officer, we currently provide Policing, ATSy, Protective Security month tours. They provide all the functions you would expect, such as and J2 functions. GPD, PS, FP, Op PLUNDER, FPST and ATSy duties. Provost Parade 7

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 7 10/05/2016 11:58 Al Minhad Airbase is located approximately 20 km south of the city of Dubai and is a coalition base. Currently based here are tri-service Australian military, tri-service US military, New Zealand Air Force, Dutch Air Force and the latest addition - the Italian Air Force. The RAF Police at 906 EAW work closely with the Aus and help with their ATSy procedures. ATSy is the primary role of A/Cpls at 906 EAW, processing on average eight flights a week with 300 passengers. Along with ATSy, a secondary role is Host Nation Liaison. The host nation security force is responsible for the control of entry and overall security of the Unit. The RAF Police visit the host nation security forces daily to facilitate the smooth transition of British visiting personnel, both military and civilian through the main gate. This is a testing task due to the vast language and cultural barrier; however, we have created a solid working relationship, so much so, plans are afoot for joint patrolling with Host Nation Military Police. Protective Security staff play a key role in the security assurance at 906 EAW. Expected to provide the same service as any UK station, the PS Staff conduct physical security inspections, chair regular USyO meetings, vet all locally employed civilians and provide SME advice on all 906 EAW - From left to right: Cpl Stancliffe, Cpl Lornie, Sgt Hufton, Flt Lt Ellis, security aspects. Cpl Taylor, Cpl Wyllie OC FP and Sy manages the RAF Police section at Minhad along with the 18 strong guard force, responsible for security of all British aircraft and protectively marked assets. OC Police also acts as the unit’s IntO, Being a relatively small detachment, there is a great community spirit gathering intelligence from a number of sources including the JOA’s CIFT, with most sections interacting both in and out of work. Even though working out of Minhad. 906 EAW is a dry detachment, there are still plenty of opportunities to socialise in the coffee shop, games room or newly refurbished pond In keeping with the RAF Police ‘work hard, play hard’ ethos, there are a area complete with Koi Carp and terrapins. There are regular Force plethora of activities to occupy downtime. There are lots of sports teams Development trips into Dubai and neighbouring Abu Dhabi, visiting playing inter-coalition football, rugby, volleyball, softball and American some of the cultural monuments to gain a deeper knowledge of the football. Sections also organise quiz and movie nights and a well turned Muslim culture and way of life. out CO’s cup.

WARRANT OFFICER STEW COPPARD BIDS A FOND FAREWELL…

or requirement of task being reduced. The RAF Police continues to be reliant upon men and women who are proud to serve and who seem to deliver more with less at every ask. The RAF Police are rightfully held in high esteem across Defence and by wider Government agencies and this is thanks to every one of you - regulars, reservists, MPGS (Air), our civilian support staff and contractors which make up the RAF Police Force. Thank you all. Additionally, since the late 1980s the RAF Police has had excellent support from the RAF Police Association and I implore you to assist in keeping ‘your’ association going in order to support our future RAF Police personnel. t has truly been an honour to have served you as Provost Having served on Special Weapons Marshal’s Warrant Officer for duties, Dog Handling duties, basic over 3 years but alas, it is time police, Counter Intelligence, Cyber, to start a new chapter out in Special Investigations and for the Isomething called Civvy Street. past 4 years with HQ RAF Police, 1 Having joined at 17 /2 years old I have had a privileged insight and served for over 37 years, which into the whole spectrum of what I am regularly reminded is over a the trade can offer. Both the third of the time that the trade, RAF and RAF Police can provide and indeed the RAF has been in much in the way of Adventurous existence, it is time to hand over to Training & Force Development, the next generation. education opportunities and sport in addition to the best day job During my service I have seen the WO Stuart Coppard formally hands over Provost ever - but it is up to you to seek trade and the RAF ‘significantly’ Marshal Warrant Officer duties to WO Franklyn such opportunities and remember reduce in number, with little to give something back for those evidence of our required delivery Green who follow.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 8 10/05/2016 11:58 RAF SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS AND INTELLIGENCE BRANCH’S INVESTIGATION INTO INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN

Over the last 18 months, investigators from the RAF Special Investigations & Intelligence Branch (South) (SIIB(S)) have had the formal lead in respect of the RAF’s largest and most complex investigation into Indecent Images of Children (IIOC) to date. The Operation originated from Project SPADE, a Canadian Police Operation into internet based companies selling IIOC worldwide. Initial enquiries identified a RAF Cpl as having purchased a number of products from these companies and, following comprehensive intelligence analysis, an arrest operation was conducted. Seized removable media he suspect was confirmed as, at the time, serving overseas and he was flown back to the UK and arrested at Heathrow Airport by SIIB(S) for the offence of being in possessionT of IIOC. A subsequent search of his overseas accommodation and his personal house were conducted and in The integrity, investigative standards, core excess of 9 Terabytes of data, equivalent values, service ethos and traditions that to to approx 2100 DVDs, was recovered as date have made the RAF Police the success evidence. it is must be safeguarded and upheld. The Computer Forensics specialists, assisted New Employment Model, together with Seized CDs and DVDs changes to under Future Force 20 (FF20), by SIIB investigators, categorised vast will bring significant challenges which will quantities of images and associated test the resolve of the trade. During my time data in order to confirm the offences we have strived to maintain events such as committed. During the forensic process it In Jul 15, the suspect was re-arrested dining in nights and top tables as they are was identified that the suspect was heavily by SIIB(S) and, as a direct result of the important in enforcing our ethos and values. involved in online chat sites which include comprehensive and detailed risk analysis The reintroduction of an At Home Day and UK the use of web cams. This discovery procedures that were conducted, was MWD Trials have helped forge relationships promoted SIIB(S) to act quickly with the immediately charged following Interview and camaraderie. We owe much to those Miami Police Department to recover After Caution and held in post charge who have served before and must ensure evidence from the servers of custody at the Military that as the current branch & trade ‘caretakers’ a particular website before "This investigation has Corrective Training Centre engaging with the relevant (MCTC) until his trial in Jan we leave it in good stead for those who will provided the RAFP follow. embassies in London, as well 2016. This was the first time as national and international SIIB with a number post charge custody has been My time as PMWO has allowed me the police forces to confirm the granted in the RAF since the opportunity to meet with many of you ages and identities of key of ground-breaking Armed Forces Act 2006 was and I am confident that we have excellent individuals. As a result, at challenges including enacted personnel to maintain, enhance, join and least one German and one work within our force. The challenges that the British minor, identified as high level liaison with Following his trial, the suspect trade has risen to, especially over the past 10 being at risk from serious the NCA, various Home was convicted of Possession years, has forged a force second to none and child exploitation, were and Taking of IIOC and was which is able to deliver force protection and safeguarded successfully. Office forces, National sentenced to 15 months imprisonment, ordered to sign a wealth of policing effects in direct support embassies and numerous of air power worldwide. As the RAF continues Through close liaison with the sex offenders register for 5 to adapt and evolve, so must the RAF Police the National Crime Agency youth organisations…" years, was bound by a sexual to maintain the same resilience and diversity. (NCA) and the Services offences prevention order 2018 will provide an opportunity to reflect Prosecuting Authority, it was for 5 years and was banned upon and celebrate our achievements to agreed that Home Office guidelines would from working with children indefinitely. date but we must seek our place in FF20 and be adopted in relation to the number of Additionally, he was reduced to the rank of beyond. I look forward to joining you at some indecent images required to be found AC and dismissed from the service. future trade or service events. The adaptability, before a prosecution would be brought. loyalty and dedication and alas personal This reduced the number of images which This investigation has provided the RAFP sacrifice has got us thus far and I hope the needed to be found by the investigators SIIB with a number of ground-breaking RAF Police will see a further 100 years. and prevented approximately 130,000 challenges including high level liaison man hours (or 33 years) having to be with the NCA, various Home Office Fiat Justitia, completed on the seized media. In the forces, National embassies and numerous end over 1,000,000 images were viewed youth organisations. Investigators have Stew Coppard by investigators which confirmed that a conducted enquiries as far afield as Florida number of offences had been committed as well as across the UK, forging lasting partnerships with other agencies which “Never say goodbye because goodbye by the suspect in relation to IIOC including the possession, distribution, making and has given the RAF Police access to valuable means going away and going away means taking of IIOC. intelligence resources. forgetting.” - J.M. Barrie (Peter Pan)

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 9 10/05/2016 11:58 RAFP CLOSE PROTECTION EMBRACES A NEW HOME

The move of 1(T)PS to RAF Honington and has to be completed in 141/2 minutes. established a new home for the RAF Police Candidates then receive an insight into some basic CP drills before completing a gentle PT Close Protection (CP) Suitability Course session to end the day. Cpl Stubbins in the Kabul snow. which is now a feature on the calendar of the Operational Training . The CP Tuesday starts with the Individual Test, a fast paced assessment simulating the Suitability Assessment, which takes place in moving of an injured VIP whilst under pressure. the first week of March and August, is open After further lessons, the afternoon concludes to all members of the RAFP, both full time with an introduction to stretchers and logs and it’s this type of testing afternoon that often and reserve. finds the stronger personalities coming to the fore. The five-day CP Suitability Assessment identifies suitable candidates for the Basic Close Wednesday is a range day, with candidates Protection Course (BCPC) held at the Close receiving extensive pistol coaching Protection Unit, Longmoor Camp. Candidates whilst building up to the Annual Combat are assessed on their physical robustness, Marksmanship Test - a successful pass is the mental agility, flexibility, communication skills, minimum requirement for those attending current affairs knowledge, map reading, driving the CP course. With a rapid development of skills, shooting and weapon handling ability. range skills and different weapon systems to Cpl Turner in Helmand province. learn, those attending the BCPC are expected The course starts on a Sunday afternoon with to show a good standard of weapon handling candidates expected to arrive wearing suits in from the outset. readiness to receive briefs for the week ahead. After these, personnel find themselves rapidly Thursday commences with the Operational changing into PT kit to undertake the first of Fitness Tests, a series of load bearing tests several physical assessments they will face over wearing combat uniform. The afternoon is the coming week. The Personal Fitness Test Ex MINI TOWER, a scaled down version of the which includes a mile and half run followed exercise successful candidates can expect to by press-ups and sit ups is a mandatory participate in should they attend the BCPC. requirement and has to be completed in a time The exercise finds the course moving a VIP relevant to age. With homework to complete, around the local Honington area. The often participants are stood down for the day. used phrase of ‘time spent in reconnaissance is seldom wasted’ is truly put to the test. Monday sees candidates undergo the CP Physical Assessment, a gender free test which Friday finds candidates completing a is designed to test cardiovascular and muscular swim test in the Honington pool before endurance. The test includes running, press providing a ten minute brief on a topic Sqn Ldr Garrod takes a moment ups, sit-ups, squat thrusts and fireman’s carries provided at the start of the week. The brief is in Baghdad. delivered to a room of senior officers and CP trained personnel. The day concludes with participants learning if they have been found suitable to represent the RAFP on the BCPC - an emotional afternoon of success and failure - all candidates leave knowing what is expected to become a Bodyguard. All members of the Service Police completing the BCPC can expect to deploy as part of a small team to provide CP to General/Air Officers or British Ambassadors, operating in high threat environments around the globe.

Cpl Eccles stops for a team photo at The candidates prepare to start Operational the top of the Kabul hills. Fitness Test Two under the watchful eye of Sgt Bracegirdle.

Candidates attack the stretcher training. Volunteer’s fresh faced before the introduction to the stretcher. 10 Provost Parade

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 10 10/05/2016 11:58 INTER SQUADRON SKILL AT ARMS MEETING Cpl Shaw, MPGS, RAF Honington, No 6 RAFP Sqn Reports

This December saw the annual Skill at Arms Meeting (SAAM) take place at Range, . The competition was hosted by last year’s winners, No 6 RAFP Sqn and administered and run by the MPGS at RAF Honington. The aim of the SAAM is to promote the development of shooting skills and inter Sqn cohesion between the RAFP and the MPGS. It also enables individuals and teams to display their prowess on the range whilst competing for the ever elusive SAAM trophy. This year’s competition was again fiercely contested and saw the introduction of 2 new trophies; one for Top Shot, which is awarded to the best overall shot of the day, plus the Wooden Spoon. The competition consisted of two shoots. The first shoot was Live Fire (LF) 11 at 100 metres from the prone, sitting, kneeling or squatting and standing (all unsupported) The winners of the SAAM competition - 6 Sqn Bravo Team positions. There was some extremely L – R: RSM Dransfield, LCpl Gurung, LCpl Jones, LCpl Bunce and LCpl Jellings good individual shooting across the board. However, inconsistency proved to be most teams undoing and it fell to 6 Sqn to once results from the day were counted up by the 7 Sqn won the wooden spoon and will host again set the gold standard. LCpl Bunce, 6 Range Conducting Officer and Range staff. The next year’s SAAM. Sqn, managed the smallest combined group atmosphere was tense whilst teams waited for size of the day with 126mm. In a repeat of the results and there was a palpable tension Overall, it was a long but ultimately enjoyable last year, his nearest rival, LCpl Jellings, also in the air as no one wanted the dubious day that produced some very good individual 6 Sqn, managed a commendable group size distinction of being the first recipient of the group sizes and overall team shoots as well of 140mm. Wooden Spoon. as the opportunity for Sqn personnel to have some interaction with their opposite numbers After a superb chicken curry provided by the The overall winners for the day’s competition from other sites. We are already looking Junior Ranks Mess from RAF Honington, the were 6 Sqn for the second year running, with forward to next year’s competition and will final round, the highest score Falling Plate a clean sweep taking, Top Shot, LF11 best hopefully get on the range again soon for shoot, was completed. Following this, the average group size and the Falling Plate shoots. some valuable practise sessions.

LONDON POPPY DAY THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

At the end of October, the city of London hosted another successful London Poppy Day with thousands of members of our Armed Forces gathered in the streets to raise money ahead of Remembrance Sunday. Members of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force scattered across 49 different mainline and tube stations in attempt to raise over £1 million for the Poppy Appeal. There were various military bands playing across the stations as well as some celebrity guest appearances and a host of special activities across the city. Each year, RAF Odiham plays a significant role in support of this worthwhile cause and amongst the 80 service personnel from the Unit was Cpl Erin Pollinger. She joined the thousands of residents, commuters and tourists who dug deep in their pockets and who contributed towards the massive amounts of money raised that day for the Royal British Legion. Cpl Pollinger said: “The support and positive comments received from not only those joining me, but from the public and all the supporters of the Royal British legion, made the day a tremendous triumph and success and a time to feel extremely proud to serve my country.”

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 11 10/05/2016 11:58 EXERCISE SAFEGUARD – RAF WADDINGTON

As part of its annual security exercise programme, RAF Waddington delivered Exercise SAFEGUARD in December 2015. Planned in conjunction with Police and TPS’s Operational Trg Flight staffs, the exercise took place over two days with the main aim of testing the Unit’s ability to respond to a number of scenarios based on a range of threats including armed aggressors and anti-drone protestors.

Day one took shape as a table top exercise, led by Lincolnshire Police planning staffs and was attended by Station Commander RAF Waddington. The planning staffs gradually led the team through a current and very real threat scenario to test the thought processes, response mechanisms, capabilities and threat reporting lines of the unit. Following what proved to be a highly useful morning, the exercise then moved into live play, bringing the scenario to life and testing whether the 3PW GETS TEETH plans and responses identified would in fact be achievable in real time. WITH THE ARRIVAL OF THE What wasn’t anticipated was PROVOST MARSHAL’S DOG UNIT some 30 minutes into live play, a ‘no duff’ suspect package was discovered near the Sergeants’ By Cpl Nikk Castle (JNCO 2 I/C PMDU) Mess which temporarily stopped the exercise as the combined efforts of Lincolnshire Police cold mid February Monday morning at RAF Henlow and RAF Waddington Police Flt saw the arrival of three RAF Police handlers, Sgt Andrew (including surged members from Walker, Cpl Nikk Castle and Cpl Kieran Jones to the newly TPS), took control, cordoned formed Provost Marshal’s Dog Unit (PMDU) a brand new the device and coordinated its section within the RAF Police Military Working Dog (MWD) eventual destruction, thanks to spectrum.A EOD support from RAF Wittering. An overnight intelligence report kicked off day two, stating a Occupying the once abandoned dog section situated at RAF Henlow, Following the success of a well they quickly set to work uplifting the section and creating an exciting executed real time security protest would take place later that day and one of the protestors new outfit that will be at the forefront of the MWD stream. Many incident, the team was now hours were spent sprucing up the old kennel buildings to a standard confident they could handle had reportedly been linked to extremist organisations. Following befitting a RAFP MWD Section, with the first dogs arriving in double whatever the Exercise SAFEGUARD quick time. would throw at them. a succession of threat reports throughout the day, the final inject saw two armed aggressors The PMDU has been formed under 3 PW and will assist in providing breach the fence line close to an even more versatile and agile MWD support to AIR. When at full Service Families Accommodation. operational efficiency, it will provide high readiness MWD teams of A combined Law Enforcement, varying capabilities providing specialist support around the globe. MPGS and Military Working Dog response was carefully The initial task for the PMDU was support to the worlds largest dog and expertly coordinated by show Crufts. After only two weeks of opening the section, the RAFP Squadron and Flight HQ staffs, resulting in an effective arrest and handover of two prisoners to Lincolnshire Police. On conclusion of the exercise, the Station Commander and Lincolnshire Police commented that SAFEGUARD had set the benchmark for future exercises in the area. It had led to a number of lessons being identified and had reassured the local Service population that RAF Waddington and the RAF Police take security of the unit and surrounding area extremely seriously, and possess the capabilities to deter and respond to a wide range of threats whilst seamlessly operating alongside Home Department Police Forces.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 12 10/05/2016 11:58 Op NIGHTSAFE By Cpl Spencer and Cpl Stubbin

dog demonstration team arrived. Sgt Walker set to work preparing the demonstration and putting the dogs and handlers through their paces. After two weeks of arduous training, the team, which included all three of the PMDU personnel, delivered a weekend of well received performances to a knowledgeable crowd and a host of VIPs including CAS and the PM. RAF Brize Norton is the biggest operational RAF station in the UK, with a station community in the thousands. With such a high volume of Looking forward, and with the possibility of completely unknown Service personnel, the demand for a place to unwind and socialise is operational commitments, the PMDU team set to work finding suitable high and it’s the local town of Witney that plays host to MWDs. The unit requires a certain type of canine that has the highest the majority. It’s this large influx of civilian and Service personnel into of drives, is comfortable with working in a variety of conditions and the local town that increases the potential for anti-social behaviour provides both a search and protection capability. The Belgian Shepherd and as a result, Thames Valley Police (TVP) introduced Op NIGHTSAFE. (Malinois) is the breed of choice for such work. Selected from a large number of candidates sourced from units around the UK, the first two Op NIGHTSAFE is a joint RAF Police and TVP initiative aimed at tackling dogs have begun their initial training on the path towards to being anti-social behaviour related incidents in Witney Town Centre during assessed and licensed as a multi-role MWD. Thursday to Saturday evenings. TVP requested RAF Police assistance to tackle and resolve issues that may arise involving off-duty Service The ultimate plan, once fully trained and licensed, will be for a single personnel and the result is joint patrols able to identify and eliminate MWD team to be capable of providing an overt security presence that anti-social behaviour problems before they escalate. can perform a protection capability. The RAF Police’s capability to effectively deal with any incidents With the heavy burden of training required for these high calibre MWDs involving Service personnel minimises the risk of the RAF being the section has, through building relationships with sections at RAF brought into disrepute both in the eyes of the public and TVP. This, Henlow and local units, begun to build training areas and facilities that in turn, allows TVP to focus their full attention on dealing with the will allow the initial and continued training of these dogs. Although criminal element amongst the civilian population. early days, the handlers are confident they will have licensed and fully operational teams in the very near future. These joint patrols see an RAF Police NCO partnered with a TVP Constable, patrolling by vehicle or on foot, creating a visual deterrent Recognised as a force multiplier by commanders, MWDs are high in within the town. The joint callsign liaises with door supervisors at demand and therefore a busy future is on the horizon for the PMDU. numerous pubs, clubs and bars, identifying any potential issues. If Requests are already being received and the teams are gearing up for a Service person is involved in an anti-social related incident, the supporting numerous exercises. RAF Police utilise their unique powers to deal with the situation appropriately. The PMDU will assist in the training and preparation of teams for both capability and conventional demonstrations where required. Handlers RAF Police attend weekly planning meetings at Witney Police Station have also begun to research and develop future capabilities that will to identify target areas and set out the intent for each Op NIGHTSAFE further enhance their ability to assist in any security and humanitarian period and to de-brief from the previous patrols, implementing any deployments that the future may hold. lessons identified. As the PMDU grows towards full strength it will have handlers fulfilling a Op NIGHTSAFE is mutually beneficial for both police forces, improving variety of specialist roles and always on readiness to deploy anywhere the communication and information sharing whilst strengthening inter- RAF requires. This level of support requires only the most enthusiastic and force relationships. It’s resulted in the development of more rounded, motivated of RAFP MWD handlers who relish the opportunity to be at competent and capable RAF Police personnel who are able to use the pinnacle of the RAFP MWD world. their experiences when dealing with on-station incidents or utilise the gathered low level local intelligence, whilst Witney Town Centre benefits from an increased policing presence.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 13 10/05/2016 11:58 On 25 Oct 15, Cpls Thompson, Samuel, Forbes and Markie of No1 RAF (Tactical) Police Squadron were The Aviation Security Team (AST) tasked with ATSy and guarding duties in South Africa. Flying from RAF Brize Norton, they arrived in Cape Town following an overnight stop in Ascension Island…

closed with drinks and snacks in the Officers’ Mess where AST met WW2 veterans and members of the South African public. The next day AST, were again dressed very smartly in Number ESCAPADE 1 Dress to attend Claremont n board the aircraft Town Hall in the Newlands were 16 members of District. As the ceremony was the Queens Colour held indoors, the sound of the Squadron (QCS) from RAF Salon Orchestra created a RAF Northolt and great atmosphere. The team sold O8 members of the RAF Salon poppies and engaged with the Orchestra who were travelling to veterans that were attending. South Africa to perform in several During the ceremony, QCS parades in Cape performed a drill routine and Town and Pretoria. These parades understandably impressed all in marked the 75th anniversary the audience. of the Battle of Britain and paid tribute to the sacrifice made by The Royal Welsh Choir and the South African Pilots who flew the Band of the Cape Town with the Allied forces against the Highlanders performed and in the summer of 1940. entertained the crowd, with the All ceremonies were organised by choir bringing the ceremony to a Cookson, from close with the National Anthems the British High Commission in of South Africa and the United Pretoria, South Africa. Kingdom. In the evening 400 people attended Claremont Town On arrival, AST attended a briefing Hall and along with the veterans, headed by Flt Lt Beddow, QCS. AST met a lady who was married AST requested to attend the to an RAF Policeman for 55 years ceremonies in Cape Town to utilise and was delighted to meet serving their approachability to speak to members of the RAF Police. Again, the veterans and South African guests were entertained by the public. After a wonderful trip to Royal Welsh Choir and the Band of the top of Table Mountain it was the Cape Town Highlanders. time for our first ceremony. It was a privilege to take part in such a historic event and it was The Twilight ceremony was held obvious by the reaction of all who at the Castle of Good Hope - the came into contact with AST that scene of a very famous Nelson their participation and presence Mandela speech on his release at the ceremonies for the 75th from incarceration in early 1990. Anniversary of the Battle of Britain The ceremony was conducted at was fully appreciated. dusk and the RAF bugler played the Last Post, embracing the sense Cpl’s Thompson, Samuel, of the occasion. The evening Forbes and Markie

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 14 10/05/2016 11:58 Cpl Atherton and Cpl Truman

OP FORTRESS – RAF HALTON

Cpl Atherton, Cpl Truman Cpl Atherton and Cpl Truman Cpl Baxter and VS MWD Bibi and Pte Gurung

Cpl Elloise Messam, GPD RAF Halton, reports on Op FORTRESS airfield, they checked for building insecurities, the security lighting and which ran for four days in early December with additional the CCTV footage. assistance from No 6 RAFP Sqn incorporating the General Police Day 2 Duties (GPD), Military Working Dogs (MWD) and Protective High visibility patrols were the main focus for all shifts, whether by foot, Security (PS) elements of the RAF Police. mobile or MWD and involved ID checks of any person not correctly displaying their ID, plus building checks. Leaflet drops were conducted Our mission was to execute a Counter Terrorism (CT) Deliberate around SFA regarding drink awareness in light of the upcoming festive Operation in order to detect, disrupt, deny and deter terrorist activity period. I felt I blended really well with the people on my shift and it and to reassure and educate all personnel associated with RAF Halton gave me the opportunity to catch up with a Cpl I was on phase two regarding their CT responsibilities. Having arrived from training three training with, so we compared notes regarding our respective units. weeks prior to the Op, it was a whole new experience for me and one where I really did not know what to expect. Day 3 Day 1 Day 3 was the Security Awareness Day with various presentations given to MOD employees and personnel in the local community. The South Day 1 started with a brief regarding the Concept of Operations by East Counter Terrorist Unit presented on the threat in the local area whilst OC Police including the Main Effort, Scheme of Manoeuvre and what 591 SU and OC Police delivered a Cyber Security presentation – all to was expected from all personnel employed throughout the Op. We educate, inform and reassure. were assigned to a shift, each of which consisted of PS, GPD and MWD personnel. High visibility mobile and foot patrols of RAF Halton and all The patrols continued concurrently. Service Family Accommodation (SFA) were carried out and a 100% check of vehicles was conducted to ensure passes were displayed and in date. Day 4 MWDs were utilised to carry out vehicle searches (VS), patrols and Main Entry Point ID checks. On the final day of Op FORTRESS, all shifts came together to debrief and discuss elements that went well and those that could be improved on in My day shift was busy with lots of activity. It allowed me to engage with the future if the Op were to run again at RAF Halton or another unit. the community, gave an insight into low level intelligence gathering and ascertained if there were any specific safety concerns. Leaflet drops Overall, I believe Op FORTRESS was a success. In total, there were 162 provided information on Cyber Security and the Security Presentation vehicle searches, 43 cars were found not to be displaying the relevant Day being held in the cinema for all MOD personnel and civilians passes and 102 ID checks were conducted. I enjoyed being a part of including dependants. the Op and a number of RAF Halton personnel commented that it was reassuring to see such a high visibility police and security presence and The night shift followed and along with the patrols, which included the appreciated the community engagement.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 15 10/05/2016 11:58 By Richie Wardlow - Counter Intelligence Operations

Ex MAGIC CARPET 16 (MC16) is one of a series of annual exercises in Oman where RAF Sqns participate in combined exercises and bilateral training with the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) in Thumrait.

The Exercise’s primary objective environment. Early engagement is to enable the development of with local authorities was air support training to the host considered essential for the nation. This year, the exercise delivery of ‘real time’ FP advice to (Ex) was supported by 140 EAW, the Ex Det Cdr. including the participation of 6 Sqn (Typhoon) and support We quickly established that staff from a wide variety of RAF Salalah was a large semi-austere branches. town in the South of Oman. One of the most notable areas, a hub Omani vehicle mitigation measures With this, RAF Police Counter of Omani culture and tradition, Intelligence Field Team (CIFT) is the Gun Souk, located in the deployed to conduct real- coastal region of Salalah. The Gun understanding and mitigating Oman, which goes back many time Force Protection (FP) and Souk is a small, informal open- the threat from Terrorism, years. security duties. The provision air market for vendors; selling a , Subversion, Sabotage of specialist security and wider variety of weapons, from antique and Organised Crime (TESSOC) Of note, one key historic ranging FP advice to the MC16 rifles to traditional knives and against EX MC AIR Operations monument is the Wali’s Fort Detachment Commander (Det daggers. When walking around and Ex personnel. In addition to in Mirbat, where the Battle of Cdr) was delivered by Sgt Mark the area, it is not uncommon to TESSOC threat advice, we were Mirbat took place on 19 July Baker and Cpl Richie Wardlow, encounter locals who regularly able to provide overarching FP 1972. The Battle of Mirbat both of Counter Intelligence carry traditional rifles with them. guidance to the Det Cdr, including saw nine members of the SAS, Operations, Special Investigations information on local driving style outnumbered by at least 25, and Intelligence Branch (North). and behaviour! defend the Fort during the Dhofar Utilising various methods of Rebellion in Oman. engagement with host nation Further engagement and activities (HN) authorities and local security created opportunities to recce personnel, we were able to the main areas of Salalah’s Gold provide detailed intelligence Souk and other market areas. collection in support of the Ex We quickly identified that, like and allow the Det Cdr to make other areas in Oman, Salalah informed FP decisions based on had a nocturnal lifestyle with local threat analysis. the streets becoming heavily populated after midnight. As The CIFT deployed with the such, we were required to change Ex MC16 activation party to our own pattern of life in order Salalah, Oman, via Dubai in early to correspond with the HN’s and minimise the cultural difference. Jan. Upon arrival, the party The Wali’s Fort in Mirbat travelled to temporary hotel accommodation located on top Over the course of our time on of the Salalah Gardens Mall in MC16, we learned that the culture At the end of the Ex, CIFT and 20 the centre of Salalah. The hotel of Oman is such that every person additional personnel remained stay would be for just five days The Gun Souk is extremely patriotic – they behind for a further four days to in order to prepare Camp Green are always aware that they are close down and hand back Camp (UK Camp inside RAFO Air base) After five days in the hotel, Camp representing Oman through their Green to the Omani’s. The Det Cdr to be fit for purpose and ready to Green beckoned; becoming our actions and as such, conduct stated that the CIFT was a highly host 300 personnel prior to the ‘not so luxurious’ home for the themselves in a way that portrays valued and integral part of the Ex, commencement of the Ex. next six weeks. Shortly after a positive image. This was evident delivering expert FP and security moving in, the main body of in the hospitality given to CIFT advice to him, enabling him to As part of this preparation we, Ex personnel arrived and MC16 throughout the deployment, deliver AIR operations through the the CIFT, began to establish local began in earnest. where most contacts couldn’t do six week period. police and security contacts and enough to help us in our duties. conducted initial atmospherics We continued to conduct local This is somewhat down to the We are now looking forward to EX of the local populace and engagement with the intent of history between the UK and MC 17!

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 16 10/05/2016 11:58 RAFP AND MPGS PRAISED FOR THEIR RESPONSE TO ROAD TRAFFIC COLLISION

9 March 2016 was a forbidding It became apparent that this was no ordinary van; it was a Serco custody day and the usual ambient noise vehicle with two passengers in the from the A1 Great North Road back handcuffed to each other. With weather conditions worsening, the could be heard in the Police Flt custody van continuing to expel and RAF Wittering. As anyone fluids and the A1 South bound traffic presenting a danger as drivers’ serving, or having previously attention was on the RTC and not the serviced at Wittering knows, road ahead - time was critical. the noise pollution from the A1 The guard in the back was initially reluctant to remove the prisoner’s is part of the routine of Service handcuffs during the rescue, until life, but after several weeks it is reassured by Cpl Brash who said: “There’s a load of RAF Police out here barely noticeable. mate…..trust me……He’s not going anywhere!” The prisoner remained The constant traffic flow on the A1 is under the watchful eyes of the RAFP, largely ignored until there is a ‘near much to the relief of the driver and miss’ or Road Traffic Collision (RTC). It escort, as all three were taken to was at approximately 1000 hrs that the RAF Police Flt where they were the Police Flt suddenly became aware assessed by RAF Medical staff. of the A1…. Emergency services took time to The MPGS witnessed a large van reach the scene due to the massive swerve across two lanes of traffic, then tail backs. Impatient cars and trucks roll onto the driver’s side, blocking further down the A1 which had tried both lanes. The mass of traffic moving to use areas of the hard shoulder at speed did what they could to avoid or grassed verges were now stuck the van after its sudden deceleration in the mud, making an approach and violent stop. The RTC was easily by the emergency services nearly audible from Police Flt. impossible. With some quick thinking and careful traffic management, the High Visibility RAFP jackets were RAFP diverted the A1 North bound donned and Police Flt deployed to traffic through the chicane of RAF recce the scene. It quickly became Wittering main entrance without apparent that the A1 North bound any of the traffic having to enter was completely blocked by the the station. This allowed a slow but van which remained on its side. steady flow of traffic to bypass the RTA Articulated Lorries, vans and cars and continue on their journey north, were assembled haphazardly in front causing minimal disruption, but more and behind the crash. Some drivers importantly allowing the Emergency wished to help in the incident, whilst Services access to the RTC. others tried in vain to navigate their way around the crash, adding to this The Police, Ambulance, Fire Service dynamic situation. and Highways Agency attending the RTC were extremely impressed The scene was assessed as Police Flt that the incident was completely and MPGS got to work. Emergency and safely controlled. Traffic flow was Services were called while RAFP being effectively managed, medical ensured traffic management was in attention was being administered to place, keeping the RTC scene safe the vehicle occupants and the safe from any further vehicles trying to custody of the prisoner was ensured. push past. RAF Medics were called to All that was left for the civil authorities triage any injured motorists. Details to do was to clear the scene of spilled of those who witnessed the incident fuel and debris and have the van were taken and those in front of the towed away. crash released on their journey north. By 1145 hrs, the scene was clear With the cordon in place and and the A1 fully reopened with a an incident control point set up, replacement vehicle arriving to the crashed van could now be transport the prisoner with his approached with some level of safety escorts 30 minutes later. The minimal from the stack of traffic which now disruption to the A1 traffic will have reached miles down the A1. There saved the UK economy a significant was a female driver stuck in the cab amount of money. of the van unable to exit, and the van itself was leaking fuel which added Internal and external agencies praised to the necessity to free the occupant the efficiency and professionalism from the dangerous situation. Cpl of personnel noting that it was the Brash RAFP and Pte Hackett MPGS quick actions of the RAF Police, MPGS climbed onto the van to assess the and the Station medics that averted a driver’s medical condition and to free potentially disastrous situation. her if possible.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 17 10/05/2016 11:58 ‘The Millies’ The RAF Police were again represented at The Sun Military Awards, better known as The Millies, with not one, but two RAF Police representatives...

Cpl Jamie Hankinson, stationed at RAF Shawbury, was nominated under RAFP Reservist Cpl Hudson divides her time between working as a fraud the ‘Overcoming Adversity’ category by his wife after his recent battle investigator for Sky and her reservist commitments and was recognised with cancer whilst Cpl Faye Hudson was nominated as a ‘Best Reservist’. for going above and beyond in her duties, especially whilst on tour in Afghanistan. Cpl Hankinson was diagnosed with cancer in July 2014 - a seminoma tumour in his back which The awards ceremony, in January, was held couldn’t be operated on as it was too near his at the Guildhall in London, with a reception spine. He underwent three months of sickening prior at No 10 Downing Street hosted by the chemotherapy before overwhelming his doctors Prime Minister. With nominees and their guests and colleagues with his recovery and returning rubbing shoulders with Ministers, senior military to work. representatives and celebrities at this annual event, it was certainly a day to remember. Recalling the day he found out about his nomination, he said: “People are diagnosed Cpl Hudson said:” It was a fantastic day. I felt very with cancer every day and lots of people go privileged to be amongst men and woman who through what I have and worse; so to say I felt truly deserved to receive awards for their courage, overwhelmed at being nominated would be sacrifice and achievements. It was a treat to a massive understatement. I was extremely visit Downing Street and attend the ceremony humbled and to be honest, felt like there were L-R Cpl Hankinson, Alison Hankinson, Wg Cdr at the Guildhall, what a lovely building for such many more people out there who deserved it Ibbetson (Cpl Hankinson’s OC) and Rod Stewart, an event.” more than me.” who is talking on the phone to Mrs Ibbetson!

MPGS RAF VALLEY FIREWALK FOR THE BLIND VETERANS UK

he day started off as normal for any planned outdoor event in excess of 350°C. To put this into in Wales - wet and windy! On arrival to the Blind Veterans UK context - water boils at 100°C, glass Llandudno Centre, the Valley team battled with the challenging melts at 230°C and lead melts at car parking facilities which were located on a muddy field, before 327°C! After a tentative start from the short walk up a hill in the now pouring rain. It was there they those who had initially eagerly metT other walkers and those friends and family brave enough to venture pushed to the front, the event was into the squall. underway. Once all participants had registered, walkers were herded into the main The Valley team kindly volunteered building for a lecture on fire walking by Scott Bell, the current world Pte Gary Jones to be the first to record holder. An hour later and following a demonstration on how to undertake the task. Each one individually lined up, stared at hot flaming break an arrow with your neck complete (the point of which still eludes coals in front of them and took a step forward, anticipating an intense the Valley team), they were now sufficiently qualified to walk over hot burning sensation, or at the very least a cheeky tingle. However, the walk coals....apparently! over the red hot glowing embers was over before they realised it had begun. Some even (foolishly) lined up for another go and realised the On exiting the building, much to their dismay, they found the weather first cut (or burn) is not always the deepest...well it was for charity! had not subsided. After what was an all too short walk to the glowing fire pit, they lined up ready to attempt the task. Arriving at the pit, The event passed without any injuries and their credibility intact. The initially things didn’t look too daunting until Scott, with the aid of a team would like to thank all their supporters for their support and laser thermometer, scanned the pit proving that the temperature was donations having raised £361.27 for the Blind Veterans UK.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 18 10/05/2016 11:58 RAF POLICE RUGBY VERSUS RAF FIRE-FIGHTERS RUGBY Dubbed ‘The Battle of the RAF Emergency Services’, an epic rugby match between RAF Police Rugby and the newly formed RAF Fire Rugby team on a sunny winter’s day did not disappointment, with both teams battling hard in a dramatic game…

The game, played on a tough and muddy Newark Rugby Club pitch, was dominated by the forwards, going head to head under a referee from the . With 14 minutes on the clock, the RAF Police pack were penalised for repeated infringements, with the resulting penalty try skilfully converted by RAF Fire. Increasing pressure from a now dominant RAF Police pack, including forced errors from both sides tested the referee, with a yellow card for each side for consistent foul play in the rucks and mauls. With a tight game in progress, excellent pre- match training ensured the Police lineout was firing on all cylinders and on 35 minutes, a quick set up off the lineout followed by a classic ‘truck and trailer’ move, secured their first try of the game from Cpl Jase Clay. This was converted by Cpl Adam Gittings. In quick succession, numerous chances came and went with small margins bringing the weather conditions, tough tackling, plus a RAF Fire their second try. From a Fire scrum, really excellent and determined Fire side, the their powerful No 8 picked up the ball and ran next try eluded both sides. like a man possessed at the Police defence. Although initially holding solid - a quick offload On 69 minutes, RAF Fire received their second ensured a clean run through to the line and yellow card and sin bin of the game, issued an emphatic finish which saw RAF Fire 12-7 up to a player who had only moments before after 38 minutes. entered the game as a substitute. Currently, the Guinness Book of Records is checking their RAF Fire came out full of confidence in the data to see if an award and presentation for second half, but could do nothing on 47 ‘Quickest Yellow’ can follow! minutes with another well-rehearsed Police lineout close to the line. Cpl Jase Clay popped Alas, even with RAF Fire down to 14 men, RAF up from the mass of bodies with the ball for Police could not take advantage and the game his second try of the game but to everyone’s flowed back and forth with the clock ticking amazement, there was no conversion so the by. In the dying minutes, the Police side had a game stood at 12-12 apiece. chance to win, but handling errors allowed RAF Fire to counter attack. With the clock in the red With a spring in their step the Police stepped and approaching the Police’s 22 metre line, RAF up their game. However, a mix of pitch, Fire produced the move of the match through

their back line with slick handling. This opened a small match winning gap in the Police’s defence, which they took full advantage of, slipping through to score the match winning try which was subsequently converted. With the sound of the final whistle, it was the RAF Fire team who had won the ‘Battle of the Emergency Services’ by 19-12. As heart- breaking as it was, it was a tough battle by both teams, played to the highest standards. Congratulations to the RAF Fire. A newly formed, yet brilliantly set up, which will go from strength to strength. We look forward to our next battle! If anyone is interested in joining the RAF Rugby team (‘The Flying Pigs’) check out the RAF Rugby Moss Page or contact the Team Manager – Sgt Jim Harries.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 19 10/05/2016 11:58 Introduction by Flt Lt Nick Dodgson and FS M Cleary RAF Akrotiri has a long and distinguished history, least of all due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean a mere 90 miles from the west coast of Syria. It remains at the forefront of the RAF’s role in projecting Air Power, and represents a unique environment where personnel posted here work amongst those rotating through on Ops. Long gone are the days of ‘sunshine tours’, with RAF Police personnel on the RAF Akrotiri Security Flight (Sy Flt) supporting Op SHADER in a variety of capabilities on snap entry and exit vehicle of Lancs Regiment who come under the Force ways. check points. Protection element for the whole of the camp and 903 EAW. The RAF Akrotiri Sy Flt provides Air Transport The release of manpower constraints has been Security (ATSy), Military Working Dog (MWD) utilised to allow the SNCO and three JNCOs For the 10 of us who have moved the couple of Patrols and Protective Security (PS) advice and to begin providing the station with more PS miles down the road from Episkopi, it has been support in conjunction with the Cyprus Joint support. In addition, as the on-island lead a vastly different change of direction. Coming Security Unit (CJSU). The Station has continued for delivering ATSy, we are currently scoping from arguably the busiest General Policing to present a range of unique opportunities for the feasibility of taking on the Air Mobility Duties Unit that RAF Police can be part of, life the RAF Police to demonstrate their broad skill Protection Teams from TPS, thus relieving as part of the Sy Flt is by no means at a slower set including dealing with locally employed some of their burden. We are also on hand to pace, with the airhead getting busier by the civilians protesting at the Main Gate or the support station in the numerous and varied day. There are no signs of operational respite in unannounced arrival of migrants. Below injects that are unique to Cyprus. the next couple of years at least, with the level is a snap shot of the unique and exciting of operations being based out of this location environment in which we work in support of Last year alone saw several hundred locally making security dominate our workload as the fight against Daesh. Acer Semper Acria – employed civilians striking at the MEP, a opposed to policing. The Peninsula is Always Ready! Tornado GR4 deciding to leave two Brimstone Missiles on the runway when making a heavy Being part of the biggest RAF Police presence return from a sortie and 115 migrants landing on the station in the last 10 years, we’re still in Air Transport Security/Protective on our doorstep - to name but a few! All of this the early stages of transition, but the future Security - Sgt R Rodgers contributes to the camp having the buzz of (and weather) is looking very bright indeed for being on Ops, but with the huge advantage of the RAF Akrotiri Sy Flt.” And the wheel revolves again… being able to go home (almost) every night to Thanks to a report by Sqn Ldr Mercer, the read the children a story and enjoy a Keo! RAF Police Military Working Dogs Security Flight (previously known as the ATSy Section) has grown from six RAF Police NCOs The increase of manning had to be found from - Sgt R Gill to 16 to cope with the increase in movements on-island resources. In Nov 15, it was formally of the significantly larger Voyager aircraft. announced that Cyprus Joint Police Unit (CJPU) Shift work at the QPD Section here at RAF Compromising of a SNCO, three Sub Cpls and was to reduce its manpower footprint with Akrotiri consists of four nights on with four 12 A/Cpls, this uplift has provided the scope to immediate effect as part of wider cuts across nights off. Although a busy and demanding support the air bridge far more efficiently and the AOR. 10 RAF Police tour, the four days of stand down between enhance the security of RAF Akrotiri. personnel moved down to RAF Akrotiri as a result of the sharp increase in operational The NCOs are able to provide four personnel tempo and became part of a regenerated for every flight without being overstretched Security Flt. and this leaves scope to provide additional security measures around the Air Port of Cpl Bowen arrived at the end of 2015. He Disembarkation (APOD) without impacting said: “It’s an exciting time to be a part of the on flight times. Currently, the NCO’s conduct Flt with a whole host of new opportunities high visibility patrols on base, which is arising. The RAF Police are very much being coordinated through the 2nd Battalion, Prince marketed in a positive light around the station of Wales Royal Regiment who are the main by the Section’s OC and OC BSW. Although FP presence delivering Flight Line Security for CJPU still remains the principle policing 903 EAW. They also conduct joint operations agency, we now conduct our security patrols with Sovereign Base Area (SBA) Police and SBA in partnership with 2nd Battalion, Prince of Customs, providing them with expert search Wales Royal Regiment and 1st Battalion Duke 20 Provost Parade

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 20 10/05/2016 11:58 shifts offers the team the opportunity to explore Cyprus and all it has to offer – a great boost for morale. The superb facilities provide unique opportunities for Adventurous Training and Force Development, with 2015 seeing the team carry out endless team building activities such as water sports at Episkopi Garrison, Escape Rooms in and hiking/mountain biking through the Troodos Mountain Range, to name but a few!

Patrol Dog Handler - Cpl Postlewhite Despite the great weather and endless social activities, this doesn’t deter from the importance of the role the QPD play out here. Due to the mass of open coastline at RAF Akrotiri, the threat of individuals arriving on camp undetected is a massive threat - as shown by the 115 migrants last year. Liaising with the SBA Maritime Police allows QPD handlers to get out on to the water to conduct joint coastline patrols. This allows dog teams to complete the occasional swim to shore exercise, a great workout for both the handler and their dogs maintaining not only fitness standards but a strong and effective dog team. Night work can be draining due to the 12 hour shifts, but during these hours continuation training also takes place, helping to keep the team aware and testing them during shift hours. In addition, the regular change over of areas between teams deters outside threats from trying to gain access to the camp.

Drug Detection Dog Handler - Cpl Plant As a Drugs Detection Handler, I am responsible for carrying out searches throughout the whole island, 24/7/365, when tasked by HQ British Forces Cyprus. I work alongside CJPU, CJSU, other civilian agencies and SBA Police and Throughout the year we conduct regular public refurbishment of the entire airfield. Customs. order training with the SBA Police in case of local protests that may occur at the Main Entry The small but busy team of civilian staff, who During a normal week, I carry out preventative Point (MEP) to RAF Akrotiri. are accompanying their serving spouses, play sweeps of five units consisting of RAF Akrotiri, a vital role in the provision of access control, Episkopi Garrison, JSSU Ayios Nikolaos, Dhekalia Security Flight Civilian Workforce supporting application paperwork, performing Camp and Troodos Camp. I am also tasked with vetting checks and ultimately supporting routine sweeps on SBA Borders between the - Mr N Angus OC Security, and the Stn Cdr, when making Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic decisions as to who should be afforded entry. A of . I also do local BFC school The RAF Akrotiri Security Flt is supported by a busy, demanding, but extremely rewarding role, visits to educate pupils about the risks and team of seven civilian staff, from QPD Kennel the growth and changes the Security Flt has dangers of drug misuse. Maids to Pass Office Clerks, Vetting Clerks and undergone in recent months is testament to a Security Clerk who supervises these key its importance, not only to RAF Akrotiri, but to Police Dog Handler - Cpl Chidlow functions. A key establishment supporting 903 EAW and the wider security mission within not only its core personnel but visiting units, British Forces Cyprus. As a Police Dog Handler, there is always a operational detachments and holiday visitors; chance of being called out by SBA Police to the team processes several thousand visitors a assist with any incidents that have occurred year. within SBA territory. This can be anything from searching for missing people, for items involved There are large amounts of vetting processes in criminal activity, suspects that have evaded in order clear the visiting workforce which capture or to assist with public order offences. includes local Cypriots employed on the unit. Working alongside the SBA Maritime Police, we In addition to this, RAF Akrotiri is proving to be team up and conduct coastline patrols around the victim of its own success after attracting a RAF Akrotiri looking for any suspicious activity. large amount of investment to aid the ongoing While on shift, we are relied upon to conduct efforts it is supporting. We are currently hosting routine security patrols around married quarters a wide range of infrastructure projects, from the and single living accommodation to ensure the demolition of the old hospital, the construction safety of the RAF Akrotiri community. of a new mortuary and more notably, the

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 21 10/05/2016 11:58 Op SHADER (903 EAW) - Sgt A Ford Summary The Security Flt has recently undergone a dramatic Just after my arrival to 903 EAW as the new PS SNCO, the government voted to carry out change; by outwardly projecting our capabilities air strikes against Daesh in Syria, as well as continuing Air Ops in Iraq. This resulted in a and wide skill set, we have managed to attract significant increase in the tempo at an already busy detachment. 903 EAW has currently significant investment in new infrastructure, expanded to include six aircraft platforms; support staff and a type 101 radar provided by vehicles, equipment and, most importantly, 1ACC mean that in total, what started as a 200 person detachment in 2014, has grown to over additional manpower. Despite all the hard work 700 personnel from units all over the UK - with just one RAFP SNCO! thus far, there is still a significant amount of work and change to deliver. Whether providing security The short notice surge activity for the arrival of Typhoon aircraft of 1 Sqn was quickly replaced education to Stn personnel, supporting wider with a calmer period for Christmas and New Year, which saw a break in support from both the BFC formations with the delivery of island-wide UK and RAF Akrotiri as most personnel disappeared for the standard two week festive break. dog capabilities, supporting Air Ops over the For 903 EAW it was business as usual, pausing only for a Christmas lunch BBQ in the Cyprus Middle-East or dealing with the inevitable crisis sunshine before the distribution of the much loved UK4U Christmas charity tin. the Stn seems to attract, this dedicated pool of professional, capable and enthusiastic RAF Police The day-to-day role varies as much as any other UK PS role, with full PS support offered to all personnel is testament not only to the Stn but also the Force Elements employed on 903 EAW, the usual quarterly Security Risk Management the wider force. (SRM) cycles of the somewhat different PJHQ SRM system as well as regular briefings and meetings with the various supporting agencies based at RAF Akrotiri and the wider BFC. As we approach the summer, we face losing a number of personnel on promotion, reflecting In addition to routine work, the surge forward capability of the role has been put to good their exceptional commitment over the last year. use with journeys to places such as Jordan. The importance of 903 EAW and its contribution There has never been a better time to become a to the wider Op SHADER mission has also seen a range of VIP visitors including the new part of this unique and exciting family – if you like CDS – Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, HRH Princess Anne, CJO, various AOCs and, most a challenge and thrive on the ‘work hard, play hard’ importantly, the Provost Marshal, Gp Capt Bailey & PMWO, providing an update and morale mentality, we’re waiting to hear from you! check to all RAF Police based in Cyprus.

ALL PHOTOGRAPHS BY KIND PERMISSION OF DICKINSON PHOTOGRAPHY

For those amongst us that have had the pleasure of learning to ride a motorcycle, you more than likely had a few lessons on the bike schools weapon of choice – the mighty Honda CB500.

or those who aren’t familiar with this British Super Bike meeting. Now, somewhere in the motorbike, it is a low tech, sturdy twin middle of all that is my personal favourite, the EMRA cylinder 500cc motorcycle, chosen by 500 class. This was trialled last year, and because of many as an ideal commuter bike due to its popularity with the riders and spectators it was its great handling and reliable engine. So introduced as a new class for 2016. whatF else would you need to make a great low cost racing formula? On a cold damp day in February, I took a trip to Rockingham Raceway for a little pre-season test The bikes are very lightly modified from the road session which saw me trying my best impression of going version - yes, the box on the back for your Evil Knievel - ask your parents if you don’t know who shopping is removed! A set of race panels, flat and that is! After brushing myself down, washing the wide handle bars, a rain light, high level exhaust mud from the bike, getting told off by my brother and a bit of lock wire here and there - that’s about for riding like our gran and messing the corner it. It makes for an affordable but competitive up, I got my head down and pushed the bike as formula to race as the bikes are all basically the much as I dare. A mental block felt like it was lifted, same. I dropped seconds from my lap, and felt so much more confident on the bike. Roll on race one! Don’t let the lack of performance or 90’s era technology put you off. When these bike race they On 22 Mar 16, I rolled up to the pre-grid area for have full on action packed battles from the race the first EMRA round at Mallory Park, my team mate leaders to the back of the pack. If you are looking Paul, bumped past me, laughing and baiting me, for paint swapping, elbows out racing that will making me want to catch him or fall off trying! have you cheering out loud and leave you wanting Over the course of 4 races I pushed as hard as I more - this is the formula for you! could and dropped 2 seconds off my best time from last year, I was pleased, but still never managed to During the off season I got busy with the spanners; catch him. I did however have some amazing close my bike was treated to some fresh paint, a few racing with several other riders in the mid pack. new parts here and there, a good service of all the There were spectacular but eye watering crashes, important bits and some fresh rubber boots. All bikes and riders littering the track on almost every ready for the 2016 season. corner. A EMRA 500 race is a frantic place to be when there is so much going on all around giving Early in 2016, I joined my local club from back spectators their money’s worth. home again, East Midlands Racing Association (EMRA). EMRA run a big class selection of A trip out to watch the thrills and spills at a club motorcycles from 125cc machines with the young race meeting can be a great day out for the family, fresh blood coming into racing, side car outfits, whilst showing support for grass roots club racing. to the fire-spitting, eyes on stalks type of modern Please search for events in your area, or come along bikes that would be at home in the paddock of any to cheer me on; I could do with the support! 22 Provost Parade

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 22 10/05/2016 11:58 Back row L to R – Fg Off James Collo, Flt Lt Ben Dyson, Flt Lt Leo Mauriello, Sgt Owain Barnaby, Fg Off Rob Hirsch, Flt Lt Barry McGuire, WO Steve Kershaw, SSgt Jack Frost, Sqn Ldr Avril Porter, FS Gaz Longley. Front Row L to R – Cpl Lyndsay Roberts, Mrs Mandy Ayres, WO Dawn Bellingham, Sgt Chris Meadows, Sgt Russ Barber, WO2 Russ Evans, WO2 George Scott, Sgt Tom , SSgt Daz Phillips

NO 6 SQUADRON’S TASKING COORDINATION GROUP & FORCE DEVELOPMENT VISIT TO BLETCHLEY PARK

he quarterly No 6 RAFP Sqn Tasking Coordination Group (TCG) was held at RAF Wyton on the 14 Mar 16. It was attended by RAFP management teams and MPGS SNCOs from each of the RAFP and Sy Flt’s within No 6 RAFP Sqn alongside OC No 6 RAFP TSqn and the remainder of the HQ element. The TCG was also an opportunity for the Sqn Vetting Clerks to meet and discuss best practice and common issues. Sqn Ldr Davis, SO2 Personnel Security from AIR briefed, taking the opportunity to reinforce the responsibilities of both the individuals employed on Units and those of the RAFP and Security Flt with regards to good vetting practice. WO Bostock from HQ RAFP A3, provided us with an up to date picture of all RAFP operations including all Contingency Force and ATSy tasks, plus a forecast of what operations we may be expected to partake in. The following morning, we embarked upon a Force Development trip to Bletchley Park which was primarily chosen as the venue because of RAF Wyton’s main role as Headquarters Joint Forces Intelligence Group. Bletchley Park may be considered to have been the original version of this function and therefore it seemed relevant to visit. We were all very impressed with the investment that had clearly gone into Bletchley Park. There were countless interactive displays, with individual smart tablets you can carry around as you view each of the Having read the secret life of Bletchley Park and watched the Imitation areas. What was particularly impressive is that you did not even have to Game, I for one was particularly intrigued. I was not let down in any sign SyOps or fill out a 668 loan card! shape or form. For those of you that are considering a visit, I would highly recommend it and I would like to provide you with a few nuggets that I took away with me from this poignant Force Development trip: • Bletchley Park was the first time that coordinated intelligence gathering took place in Great Britain. • For all the young Ladies and Gentlemen that were assigned to Bletchley Park, their first actions on arrival would be to sign the Official Secrets Act and to essentially agree to never speak of the work that was being carried out there. • They lived and worked in poor, cold and cramped conditions on site and were quite often billeted within the local community. • There were very few areas or space for them to exercise. A full size tennis course did exist on site and is still there today. It was quite often utilised throughout the day, drawing good crowds on occasion. • It took a great deal of energy and man hours, not to mention some of the greatest minds of all time to crack the enigma code. Quite often the officers were unable to act on the intelligence they gathered for fear of their ability to crack the code being discovered. If they did act on the intelligence it was imperative that the Germans were led to believe that the intelligence had come from a spy. • The only part of the Imitation Game that was filmed at Bletchley Park was the bar scene. The bar is still set up in the mansion but was unfortunately a replica purely for the film. There are also some clothing and props on display from the Oscar winning film. Flying Officer James Collo

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 23 10/05/2016 11:58 EXERCISE CORNISH CHALLENGE

It was the 6th February 2016 when a determined nine-strong team from RAF Cosford Police Flight, plus a keen dental nurse from RAF Shawbury, took part in an extreme obstacle race called X-Runner Winter Warrior. The After a long and taxing race, held at Donington Race period of very high Track in Derby was set to test readiness, personnel their mettle. from A Flight, No1 RAF Cpl Alexander, 6 Sqn, RAF Cosford (Tactical) Police Squadron Police Flight reports…

took to the choppy waters RAF Cosford’s Force Development off for a week’s Flight funded the event one month prior to the race, enabling Surf Adventure Training the team to focus on getting physically and mentally prepared (AT) with the Waveriders for the challenge ahead. at RAF St Mawgan. The X Runner is a 5km or 10km team run with 72 obstacles placed nder the stewardship of Sgt Kerri Hancox, The weather was presenting everyone with strategically along the course. members of A Flight set off on the challenges. The waves had become larger and were Obstacles include mud and slides, 400 mile trip to RAF St Mawgan. After coming in from all directions. To the inexperienced, climbing walls, monkey bars, making themselves comfortable in their these were menacing and time and time again the tyre walls and free fall jumps. accommodation, they headed into the brave novice surfers were beaten back by their size Armed with the knowledge of the Uheart of Newquay to unwind. and power. As with all sports there are dangers, not obstacles ahead of us and bucket only the environment in which we found ourselves loads of determination, we were The next morning, well rested and bursting with but also the ever present prospect of being hit by a ready to attempt the race. enthusiasm, the team made their way to the beach surf board. Undeterred, the surfers persevered and to start with practice on dry land to give everyone eventually started catching waves - albeit slightly The team left RAF Cosford at the a base line before stepping out in the ocean. The battered and bruised. crack of sparrows on a very wet instructors, Alex and Mark, provided excellent tuition and an extremely cold wintery and soon it was time to put the training into practice By the end of the week everyone had managed day. Arriving at the venue we and enter the water. to surf, even if it was in a slightly unconventional realised the popularity of the style. The whole week was extremely rewarding X-Runner series with hundreds of After a pretty wobbly start, there were definite signs and it reiterated the need for everyone to have the people arriving and preparing for of improvement with many of the group confidently opportunity to participate in AT which presents the race. It became apparent just riding waves all the way to the beach on ‘floaty’ individuals with personal challenges to overcome how muddy we would get after surfboards. As the day drew to a close, the team as well as developing Espirit de Corps. Our thanks seeing other competitors finishing reflected on the day’s events before heading back go out to all the staff that supported us at RAF the course who had started in the to base. St Mawgan and we would recommend this earlier waves. to everyone. Day two started with the group trying to progress Our team was called to the starting to the standing position by mastering ‘popping’ up, point at 1145 hours, ready for the which is the transition from prone to standing in 1200 hours start for the 10k race. one movement - effectively a burpee on a surfboard! We waited at the start where a This proved difficult at first, especially for the taller DJ was playing music alongside people, who, having managed to stand up like a flag 400 other eager runners, all ready pole found themselves taking a dive into the water for the off. With our bright neon almost immediately! pink t-shirts, complete with RAF Police motif, we really looked the By lunchtime most of the team had mastered the part, drawing the attention of the ‘pop’ and were looking pretty comfortable on the officials and resulting in a massive boards. An afternoon filled with practice and beach shout-out from everyone running games, led to an evening barbeque to say farewell the event. After a quick warm up to Cpl Ben Sutton who was leaving the Service to and safety brief, which included, start a new life in the USA. amongst other things, a warning not to eat or swallow the dirt - it The next two days saw the team progress from was time to go. the ‘floaty’ board on to ‘mini mals’, a harder board that picks up speed faster but is more difficult to We were soon confronted by tyre use, followed by traditional surf boards. Whilst walls and 15 foot high walls made the transition was not exactly seamless, everyone of hay bales. These turned out to grasped the basic principles. be some of the easier obstacles,

The24 Criminal Provost is Parade Caught

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 24 10/05/2016 11:58 With the Mario Kart costumes prepared, the Police Flight headed Standing L-R: Cpl Alexander, SAC Brown (Dental Nurse), Cpl Grimshaw, over to the Kart Track for a fierce competition with the MPGS. Cpl Ray, Cpl Uren, Cpl Baxandall. Kneeling L-R: Fg Off Collo, Cpl Whittle, Cpl Sigley, Cpl Godley. With the snowy condition, the fancy ‘dress’ option proved rather chilly for some but they overcame the cold, pulling together as a team with as we would find out later. With from where they encouraged and steely determination to accumulate as many laps as possible. The karters the track ending, it was time to go assisted the team. quickly got round the track, with some competitors determined to play cross country, heavy rain making bumper karts, with the inevitable spin outs and road rage. With the the route all the more muddy. Cpl The course grew progressively strong winds, we were pushed along and some speedy driving from Cpl Godley stepped off the track and harder but this made it more Pollinger meant we achieved over 450 laps after a demanding hours’ ended up sliding head first along enjoyable for everyone on worth of driving. the ground, covering himself from the team. One of the most head to toe in thick glutinous demanding obstacles, the inclined mud. He carried on, all of us walls, standing 12 feet high and accepting we would soon mirror inclined towards the runners, his appearance. highlighted Cpl Baxandall’s team spirit, as he assisted every We approached the series of mud member over the wall, despite the mountains which consisted of a impressive collection of footprints massive mud slide into freezing we left all over him. cold water, leaving the runner to climb out the other side. There The team took two hours to were three of these and each complete the course, crossing time, the mountain became the finish line to collect our The bar was set high for the MPGS, could they beat it? Was their driving steeper and muddier and the well-deserved medals. The day going to be even better? No, is the short answer. Apparently, only having water became deeper. Teamwork proved to be a highly valuable two pedals and an open topped kart left our competitors struggling to was essential in completing this Force Development activity and top 15 mph! We started to get excited and although the MPGS threw obstacle as it was near impossible was enjoyed by the whole team. everything they had at it, including an extra kart and drivers, it was not to keep your balance. Completely With multiple X-Runner events enough. covered in mud, nothing quite happening across the Midlands prepared us for the pain of hitting this year, it is one to recommend A good natured day out saw the RAFP secure the top place but now we the icy cold water. Cpls Grimshaw as a Force Development event, so wait until our next encounter when the MPGS will try and get their own and Uren were the first to the top if you fancy a challenge, sign up back by challenging us to a Range Day, including a moving targets shoot. and give it a go! By Cpl Lauren Tidy Net Crawl

Cpl Baxandall Climbing

In the photo from L-R: Cpl E Pollinger, Sgt P Ward, Cpl S Downhall, Cpl D Richards, Cpl I Foster, Cpl S Berry, Cpl J Tett, Cpl L Tidy Provost Parade 25

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 25 10/05/2016 11:58 603 (CITY OF EDINBURGH) SQUADRON RAUXAF “GIN YE DAUR”, SCOTS DORIC DIALECT FOR ‘IF YOU DARE’

It’s been a busy period of time for 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron RAuxAF. We find out why…

RAF Police Reservists Graduation They welcomed new Reservists to their number at a graduation ceremony and for the first time the graduation included a husband and wife. RAFP Phase 2 No 03 ran from May to November with 13 students on a course which had been redesigned and reduced from an 18 month to a 6 month package. Acting James and Janet Sinclair, who live in Perth, were both awarded their warrant cards after successfully completing their training and are now looking forward to their part-time role within the RAF Police. Both have a military background and having watched their son’s career progress in the army, they decided it was time to get back into uniform. They were attested in April 2014, beginning their training the following month. After completing the first phase of training with an intensive two week course at RAF Janet, who works as a Senior Administrator for Halton in Buckinghamshire, the couple were a manufacturing company, has enjoyed her jointly awarded Best Newcomers to 603 experiences to date and said: “In September Squadron for 2014 - the first time it had been 2014, we gave tours of our Headquarters in given to a married couple. Edinburgh as part of the City’s Open Doors Weekend. This was thoroughly enjoyable and It was during the six months’ worth of Phase gave us a chance to research and showcase 2 training that the Sinclair’s rubbed shoulders what an incredible building we are fortunate to with royalty when Her Majesty The Queen, the call our HQ.” squadron’s Honorary Air Commodore, visited the Edinburgh Headquarters to mark the 90thAnniversary of the squadron’s creation. Having been presented with their warrant cards by The Provost Marshal (RAF) Group Number 2 Group for his outstanding leadership Captain Kevin Bailey, a clearly delighted Acting and intuitive vision in the development of Corporal Janet Sinclair said: “We were both so the successful RAF Police Phase 2 Training looking forward to graduating and obtaining Course, the rapid build-up of RAF Police on the our warrant cards so we could get on with squadron and the development of the utility of being part of the RAF Police.” the RAF Police Reserves across AIR. The following personnel also graduated and Having served over 25 years, Sergeant Robson are welcomed into the RAFP family: has since retired from the regular Royal Air Force and joined 603 (City of Edinburgh) Sqn A/Cpl Tyler (502 Sqn) A/Cpl Gavin RAuxAF as the FTRS Flight Sergeant Recruiting, A/Cpl MacKinnon (502 Sqn A/Cpl Harvey where he can continue to utilise his vast A/Cpl McDowell (502 Sqn) A/Cpl Purser amount of RAF Police and training experience A/Cpl Ward (502 Sqn) A/Cpl Pearson to good effect. A/Cpl Campbell (607 Sqn) A/Cpl Dawson A/Cpl Horsfield (607 Sqn) Squadron Awards Cpl Brian Gorst Honours & Awards Corporal Gorst was awarded the squadron Sgt Jason Robson trophy for his ‘Contribution to the Force’, in recognition for the contribution made to RAF The Provost Marshal (RAF) Group Captain Kevin Operations whilst maintaining high levels of Bailey presented Sergeant J A Robson with a contribution to the squadron and upholding Commendation by Air Officer Commanding the operational values of the Royal Air Force.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 26 10/05/2016 11:58 His Spitfire X4324 crashed at Kingswood, near reconnaissance. A convoy was bombed off Chartway Street, Kent. He was 22 years of age. Harwich and various towns were targeted. At He is buried in the churchyard of St. Michael Wickham Market and Worthing, civilians and and All Saints at Middleton Tyas, Yorkshire. soldiers in the streets were machine-gunned. A section of three aircraft of 603 Sqn were The portrait was commissioned by members sent up at 11.55 hrs to intercept raiders: Fg of the Pease family and although officially Off Gilroy, Plt Off Winskill and Sgt Plant. The presented to the Squadron in the Great Hall outcome of the sortie was that Sgt Ronald Eric of Edinburgh Castle in October 2015, it has Plant destroyed 603’s 100th confirmed kill. been hanging in the RAF Club since before Christmas 2015, for a wider audience to enjoy. As a member of a section which had been At the Reception, hosted by the RAF Club and detailed to intercept a German Heinkel III, 603 Squadron, members of the Pease family, Ronald was the third man to attack and many of them unable to attend the October coming straight behind it he failed to break unveiling, congregated in the Churchill away and crashed into the enemy aircraft. Both Room of the RAF Club where their forebear’s aircraft fell together in flames. We will never portrait has been sharing wall-space with such know of course exactly why it happened but luminaries as Trenchard and Churchill himself. the ’s crew had been firing at all of The painting, by Marcus Hodge, will shortly them and we suspect Ronald was either hit or be returned to its home in the 603 Squadron had his windscreen smashed and was unable Headquarters in Edinburgh. to see properly. His attack, however you look at it, killed four German airmen and destroyed a Air Cdre Rick Peacock-Edwards described much more valuable machine, and incidentally Corporal Gorst has come a long way since he the popularity of the painting in the short it was the 100th enemy aircraft destroyed by informed HRH the Duke of Edinburgh that space of time it had been there. AM Sir David members of 603 Sqn. he was once employed in the breast implant Walker spoke on behalf of 603 Squadron and industry! Since completing Phase 2 training, eloquently mused with poignancy that Peter On 29 November 1940, 603 Squadron held he completed the Air Transport Security course had probably visited the RAF Club – possibly a dinner in the Dorchester Hotel, London to at DSPG and deployed on several taskings in that very room – before his untimely death. celebrate their 100th confirmed kill. including two weeks at RAF Gibraltar assisting Mrs Nicola Odey spoke with great feeling JSPSU with policing, guarding and ATSy. On his and gratitude on behalf of the Pease family, On 29 November 2015 and in order to return he was thrust straight into the reserve her father Sir Richard Pease being too unwell commemorate that famous victory the current commitment for RIAT and the Edinburgh to attend. members of 603 Sqn and guest of honour, Tattoo. In November 2015, he was mobilised for Gp Capt Hellard, Inspector RAuxAF, attended a 6 month deployment to the Falklands - part The generosity of the Pease family has added a 75th Anniversary Battle of Britain dinner at of pre-mobilisation included pre-deployment a wonderful portrayal of a remarkable young the Squadron Headquarters; to replicate the training at RAF Lossiemouth Police Flt man, the very embodiment of ‘The Few’, who event at the Dorchester. The dinner included fought and died serving on 603 Squadron in the original menu which would have been the nation’s darkest hour. They were so moved impressive for wartime London. by the efforts made to give the Peter Pease The Peter Pease Portrait portrait such wide exposure, that an offer Like our fellow airmen we ate and drank well, was made to commission a second version, although we did not have bombs bursting to fill the place in the RAF Club graced by and guns booming over us! We had a fabulous this portrait. time, however, it was not just about the meal, it was an opportunity to pay tribute to so many heroes. I am sure the lads from 1940 would be 603 Squadron’s 100th Kill looking down and be extremely proud as we are, the , to be part of 603 On 21 November 1940 enemy activity (City of Edinburgh) Sqn RAuxAF – ‘The greatest continued throughout the land, the majority Squadron of them all’. of aircraft being involved in shipping continued over page >>

In early March, a short Reception was held in the RAF Club, London, to mark the donation to 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron of a portrait of a WWII Squadron pilot, Fg Off Peter Pease who was killed on 15th September at the height of the Battle of Britain. Pease single-handedly attacked a mass of enemy attacking London. An escorting Messerschmitt caught him and opened fire. Despite his Spitfire taking hits from the enemy, he prosecuted his attack on the bombers, pulling up at the last moment and rolling over, still pursued by the enemy fighter.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 27 10/05/2016 11:58 The picture shows members from 603 Sqn RAuxAF in front of a Sea-King from 202 Sqn SAR, which was disbanded a month later.

603 Training RAF Boulmer provided the location and equipment to assist in the training of personnel from 603 Sqn RAuxAF. As well as the training, personnel received a tour of the R3 Bunker, gaining access to the control room and a brief on the role of the Air Surveillance and Control Systems Force (ASACS). A very worthwhile weekend and one we hope to repeat in A simulated RTC provides the the future. focus for Sqn personnel.

whilst serving in the Far East, including a number of RAF Police. THE RAF POLICE It is housed in a former hardened aircraft shelter, consists of a training police station, plus FORMALLY OPEN a search house and is unique to 3TPS being the only one of its TRAINING FACILITY type across the Royal Air Force. It is designed to hone the skills of the personnel on the squadron, in particular the day to day operations expected in a real time RAF police station and provides the opportunity to practice crime scene and house searches in a protected environment. Lord Stevens, the highly respected former Metropolitan Police Commissioner, became No 3 TPS’ Honorary Air Commodore in 2007 and during his opening speech said: “I have been involved in policing for a long time and this is one of the best facilities of its type No 3 (RAuxAF) Tactical Police Squadron, based at RAF I have seen. of these are stationed at RAF Honington, had their training facility formally opened Honington. by their Honorary Air Commodore, The Lord Stevens of “This is an extraordinary Squadron, you are extraordinary people, and With some personnel from the Kirkwelpington, in a formal ceremony on Saturday 9th April. I have been privileged to see you squadron currently deployed The ceremony, which was serve and come overseas on a variety of tasks attended by a variety of civic back from serving in supporting the RAF Police, Officer dignitaries, civilian police and places right around Commanding, Sqn Ldr Jim RAF representatives, marks the the world.” Kirkbride, is particularly pleased transition of No 3 Tactical Police to see the training facility formally Squadron (3TPS) following their 3TPS was the first opened and said: “We would move from RAF Henlow to RAF RAF Police Reserves like to thank RAF Honington for Honington in June 2015. unit, having been providing us with this first class established in 2001. training facility. It will undoubtedly The facility will be known as RAF There are now 200 provide exceptionally well trained Kai Tak in memory of military RAF Police reservists RAF Police Reservists who will personnel who sadly died in in six locations support regular forces on any an air crash on 29th June 1946 nationally and 73 given task worldwide.”

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 28 10/05/2016 11:58 Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 29 10/05/2016 11:58 MY LIFE IN THE RAF POLICE (SO FAR)…

For some, joining the RAFP and completing the basic trade training is a distant memory. We catch up with some newly graduated corporals to see how life is treating them as they take the first steps on their career paths and into various sporting activities…

Cpl Alexandra Bell, General Police Duties - RAF Benson I have been involved in several ATSy duties, flying on a variety On entering the RAF I was aware that the RAF Police is one of the most of aircraft. Travelling to Langley diverse trades, with opportunities to work overseas, complete training Air Force Base in the USA before courses and to develop a broad range of policing knowledge. Christmas and Norway in February was incredible. I am Having been out of training for over six months now, I can say it is also earmarked for a number certainly not your average job. Being posted on to a busy unit straight of ATSy duties to Africa, Oman from training meant there was no chance of skill fade and it presented an and DG, which again I am sure excellent opportunity for professional and personal development. In a will be a great experience. In short time I have been fortunate to travel to numerous countries on ATSy addition I have been nominated tasks, perform representative RAF sport at a national and international for CF9 duties and look forward level and gain several new qualifications, as well as increasing my to the upcoming training policing skills and knowledge. package.

From the outset, everybody on the Police Flt was fantastically supportive I have been able to continue and offered advice and support in all areas of policing. From carrying my involvement in sport since out escort duties at a military funeral, a very humbling experience, finishing training. As well as to being involved in a road safety crash exercise - I have experienced being a keen runner, competing a huge amount. I have performed my first arrest, taken statements in half marathons and 10-15 and conducted an interview after caution, as well as assisting with km events in Oxfordshire for SIIB investigations. the RAF Benevolent Fund, I also represent the RAF in the I have to credit the staff at DSPG as without their instruction and Senior Ladies Hockey Squad. In professionalism, I would not be where I am now. Being awarded the addition to numerous training RAFPA trophy for Best Recruit at Policing Duties last year gave me a weekends, I was selected to lot of confidence coming in to post and encouraged me to take every attend a training camp in opportunity I can to develop my knowledge and skill base. I attended Gibraltar in January which was an Impaired Driving Course at RAF Honington in February and I am now a great learning curve and an in charge of Impaired Driving training for the Unit. I am D&I, emergency opportunity for team building, first aid and road safety qualified and I also plan to attend a mental as well as ticking another Cpl Bell – The runner! health awareness course in the coming month. country off the list! I have just returned from the Inter Services Tournament and look forward to playing in the Inter Station and indoor leagues over the summer. I am proud to be in the Royal Air Force Police and look forward to seeing what the future holds for my career.

Cpl Bell after receiving the RAFPA trophy for Best Recruit at Policing Duties Cpl Bell with her fellow hockey players with the Chairman, Mr Roy Laver OBE

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 30 10/05/2016 11:58 Continuing with the sporting theme, Cpl Chris Hamilton, calendar was essential and I was luckily enough to do this after signing for semi-professional football club, Stamford AFC who play in Evo-Stik who is stationed at RAF Waddington, has achieved some Northern Premier League. notable success in the world of RAF football… I have been very lucky to have a chain of command at RAF Waddington I graduated from Southwick that have been very supportive towards me playing and representing Park in October 15. Being At RAF the RAF at football, whilst making sure that I still produce good police Waddington after passing out work - which is my main priority. has definitely been a change (not having to march everywhere!) but Southwick Park definitely prepared From the pitch to the slopes, Cpl Jayne McMeakin, me for what I have faced so far. I stationed at RAF Northolt, has been skiing since she was believe the Environmental Training they hold during that phase is a four years old. She’s honed these skills and is now part of massive help and definitely an the RAF team, enjoying great success along the way… eye opener to things that we may encounter on a daily basis. Since leaving Southwick Park and arriving at Northolt I feel I have settled in well. The school does a great job of preparing you for the ‘real world’ Upon joining the RAF, I knew that and I’ve had no difficulties transferring the skills they taught me to with my previous career playing working at RAF Northolt. It’s amazing how much you remember from professional football, I would like the school once you’re doing the job. It is largely how I thought it would to make my way into the football be, but you have more of a chance to be yourself and make decisions as team and represent the RAF Police, things are happening. RAF Senior team and eventually the Combined Services team. It’s My role is General Police Duties; however, Northolt is slightly different probably happened a lot faster than as it’s in London and has a slightly higher profile. We often have to I expected it to - in fact, it all started Cpl Hamilton proudly shows his assist with events being held here and security is paramount due to the within two weeks of my arrival to Stamford AFC Shirt location and the nature of some of the visitors, such as royalty or the RAF Waddington. Prime Minister. I joined the squad to play in a When I arrived, I immediately went to the gym to find the contact for friendly against East Riding FA Select alpine sports. After I’d told him I’d been skiing since I was four and would in Hull. We were 2-0 down at half ski down anything, he arranged for me to go to the Indoor Champs at time, but I was pleased to grab Leeds Xscape in September. After competing there, I was invited to the a goal on my debut after being winter training camp at Tignes in for two weeks in November. brought on in the second half and assisting with our 3-2 victory. After the two weeks training with the team and showing improvement, I was invited to the RAF Champs where two guys from Northolt and I won In December, we were off to RAF the Inter Station Cup with our combined times. At the end of the camp, I Cosford for four days of training was also awarded the ‘Best Newcomer to Speed’ and chosen to represent along with matches against HM the RAF at the Inter Service Championships. Prison Service and Swindon Town’s Academy team. We arrived with a I was shocked and delighted to make the team in my first season with squad of 34 football players which them as there were only seven girls chosen. We have a summer training needed to be cut down to 20 for camp coming up in April and will hopefully be going to Chile in August the Inter Service Tournament that for speed ski training. was just around the corner. Over this four day period, the standard I take a bit of stick for skiing as I am away for weeks at a time so there of the players was very high. I could is a fair bit of banter when I get back, but in reality, they’re all really tell it was going to be tough task for supportive and my Sgt, Flight Sgt and boss do everything they can to get the management to cut the squad me away as much as possible. down, leaving some disappointed. Cpl Hamilton’s RAF Squad Shirt Having skied from a young age, I always intended to ski when I joined In January, a friendly match against Hartpury College was cancelled due the RAF so it has been a dream come true in the way it has worked out. to a frozen pitch meaning we only had one remaining training session to The training has been unbelievable and I already know my technique impress the manager and coaching staff. The pressure was on. has improved. I had never ski raced before, which is a totally different experience to free skiing with family and friends, but I have loved every I finally received an email to let me know that I had made the final 20 minute. It’s quite intense, especially when dealing with disciplines such man squad for the pre inter-service tournament and trip to Holland in as downhill because it’s so dangerous and high speed. February. Fantastic! It makes me proud to be the only member of the RAF Police that has made the RAF Inter-service squad and this makes me even more determined to play well, not only am I representing the RAF, but also the RAF Police. The four days of training and two matches in Holland helped us prepare for our first Inter- service match against the Royal Navy at HMS Temmeraire’s stadium. This was a very tight affair with more tackles and yellow cards than goal scoring chances, but the 0-0 draw gave us a fighting chance to win the trophy back in the match against the Army. It now all came down to the match against the Army at Shrewsbury Town’s stadium and they had beaten the Navy 1-0 the previous week so we knew we would need to win the match to clinch the trophy. Unfortunately for us the Army were victorious, winning 2-0 and their first Inter Service Trophy for 8 years. They were well worthy of the victory, but it has given the squad and I even more determination to win the trophy back next year! Keeping our fitness levels up as we edged closer to these two big matches in the Service football Cpl McMeakin – Bottom Row – 3rd from the left Provost Parade 31

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 31 10/05/2016 11:58 UPDATES FROM INITIAL TRAINING SQUARDRON A busy period for Initial Trg Sqn which has seen a large turnover of instructional staff. Couple this with the consistently high numbers that we are currently pushing through, it has made it a challenging period. Despite this, instructors continue to give above and beyond for the THE DEFENCE satisfaction they get from seeing the students graduate at the end. We are extremely pleased with the calibre of NCO we are passing out and these numbers look set to continue for the foreseeable future. Netheravon Flt 15/001 Led by Sgt Hill with Cpl’s Redden and DSPGSCHOOL Johnson graduated on 30 Oct 15; Cpl Bell – RAF Benson Cpl Evans – TPS Cpl Fields – RAF Marham (MWD) OF POLICE Cpl Fry – TPS Cpl Hamilton – RAF Waddington Cpl Henley – RAF Benson (MWD) Cpl Horlock – RAF Lossiemouth (MWD) AND GUARDING… Cpl Jewers – RAF Lossiemouth Cpl Kaminski – RAF Lossiemouth Cpl Longley – RAF Coningsby (MWD) Cpl MacMillan – RAF Halton Cpl Mattinson – RAF Coningsby Cpl Messam – RAF Halton HEADQUARTERS DSPG Cpl Nixon – CJPU Episkopi Cpl Pitman – RAF Marham (MWD) Since the last issue, DSPG has been a particularly Cpl Robinson – TPS busy. Prior to the Christmas stand-down, HQ and Sqn Cpl Thompson – RAF Odiham Cpl Trott – RAF Brize Norton (MWD) staff waited on the JNCOs and Phase 2 students at a Cpl Vawer – RAF Cranwell very successful Jnr Ranks Christmas dinner. The well- Cpl Vincent – TPS earned festive break was enjoyed by staff and students Cpl Woodford – RAF Waddington Cpl Bloor – RAF Cranwell (MWD) alike, returning refreshed and ready to hit the ground Cpl Cozens – RAF Honington running. Cpl Tillyer – RAF Marham (MWD) Cpl Leech – TPS With the New Year upon us, we went straight into a successful first Cpl Chetri – RAF Akrotiri (MWD) party audit from The Defence College of Logistics and Personnel Cpl Daubney – RAF Marham Administration. We welcome our new Pers (Trg) Officer, Squadron Leader Paul Newton-Jones, who takes up post as the new OC Debden Flt 15/002 Led by Sgt Parsons with Cpl’s Gallagher and MTS. We also bid a fond farewell to Flight Lieutenant Gav Brockie Stuart graduated on 12 Feb 16; who takes up post as DSC No 5 RAFP Sqn after holding the fort as Adjutant and recently covering the gapped DCOS and COS posts. Cpl Burnell – RAF Honington Cpl Harvey – RAF High Wycombe We have had a number of overseas visits to DSPG, mainly the Cpl Lambie – RAF Brize Norton Italian Carabinieri who visited the school to look at how we train Cpl Laverie – RAF Coningsby our Service Police as well as the Danish Provost Marshal and his Cpl Lloyd-Jones – RAF Odiham (MWD) delegate. We are also playing host to three Kuwaiti Officers who Cpl Longstaff – RAF Coningsby (MWD) are on the current MPOC/RAFPOC. Cpl Lumber – TPS Cpl Noone – TPS As ever, the School has seen the graduation of several courses Cpl Petrou – TPS since the last edition of the Provost Parade and the Headquarters Cpl Peverley – RAF Brize Norton (MWD) would like to congratulate all graduating students in their success Cpl Read – RAF Halton and wish them all the very best in their future career. Cpl Robertson-Fox – RAF Brize Norton Cpl Steele – TPS Cpl Urry – RAF Coningsby Cpl Wadsworth – TPS Cpl Wilton – RAF Halton MILITARY TRAINING SQUARDRON This has been a busy period for the Military Training Squadron as we continue to run or support the full spectrum of courses within DSPG. Our output includes delivery of all DSPG’s Command Leadership and Management Training, Operational Training, Physical Training and Signals Training. The squadron is also the lead for coordination of Personal Safety Training and has recently taken responsibility for delivery of all DSPG’s Course Design and Training Validation functions. In January we were delighted to welcome our first Squadron OC, Sqn Ldr Paul Newton-Jones, who joins us following his deployment on Op TORAL. Other new RAF arrivals included Sgt Mark Gallagher and Cpl Philip Mykyntyn of the RAF Regiment who joined the Ops Trg Team. Sgt Tom Fuller was posted in as DSPG’s RI and Cpl Paddy Flint joined the Training Validation Team (TVT). FS Brian Knight also moved to the TVT from DSPG’s Initial Training Squadron on promotion. Flt Lt Wayne Edwards and FS Paul Symons visiting the NMA with RMP Colleagues.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 32 10/05/2016 11:58 ADVANCED TRAINING SQUARDRON

Apart from a small breather to enjoy the yuletide festivities, this has been to the local community in support of the over-stretched South Central another busy period for the squadron. As expected, there have been a Ambulance Service. number of changes of staff within the Sqn: Sergeant Marc Byrne and Cpl Mike Bedford have arrived to bolster the numbers in the Security Training Congratulations must go to Flight Sergeant John Lane for completing Flight. We say goodbye to Sergeant Dan Flett, who has taken the helm his endurance marathon along the Jurassic Coast. Despite battling 50 as the training Sergeant at HQ 5 Sqn RAF Police, RAF Waddington. mph winds and everything storm Desmond had to offer, he finished the race and raised a significant amount of money for the Dogs Trust We hit 2016 running with nine courses starting throughout January, all charity organisation. requiring manpower and an abundance of administration. This period has seen the introduction of a second entrance exam for the Serious In September 2015, DSPG arranged a Battlefield Study to Monte Cassino, DSPG Crime Investigators Course, testing the students on core competencies Italy where a number of the Squadron Instructors embarked on a guided as well as the distance learning legislation exam. In addition, the tour of the Italian campaign of WW2. This included a scramble up the introduction of the first Management of Investigation Course 3. mountain itself via the Cavendish Road.

The department is looking forward to delivering updated Domestic Not to rest on our laurels, a month later, an Air Power related visit to the Abuse Training to the Service Police and forging links and working RAF Museum at RAF Cosford was undertaken by the squadron to balance relations with the British Transport Police, Hampshire Police, Cellmark out the Land Campaign lessons introduced in Italy. After looking at our and local universities through our Forensic Department. The links aviation history, we were hosted by 660 Squadron at RAF Shawbury with will not only benefit students attending courses, but allow valuable a couple of us able to tick another thing off our bucket list by having a go development for the instructors and the wider Service Police community. at flying a squirrel helicopter. On our way home and on a more sombre note, we paid a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, where wreaths Sergeant Tracey Barrow has now fully qualified as a member of the were laid in respect to the RAFP and RMP fallen. Ambulance Support Service, providing first response medical treatment

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 33 10/05/2016 11:58 CANINE TRAINING SQUADRON - DEFENCE ANIMAL CENTRE

Situated in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, The Defence Animal Centre (DAC) is a Tri-service establishment comprising of the Canine Training Squadron (CTS), Equine Training Squadron (ETS) and the Veterinary Training School (VTS). We learn more from WO Dale Woolman-Lane….

he Royal Army Veterinary Corps and the RAF Police make up the CTS which provides Military Working Dogs (MWDs) and personnel trained in their husbandry in order to meet the needs ofT Defence. Every Dog handler in the military and MGS transits through DAC to be trained to handle MWDs - which are trained in their relevant classification. Initially, personnel are trained to handle a Patrol (PAT) Dog, the bread and butter of being a dog handler. The PAT Dog will use all their senses to find an intruder in an open area. When released the PAT Dog will chase, hold (bite) and detain an intruder until the handler catches up with carries out detection (search) work. It is able them. These dogs will also protect the handler to track a person using its nose, following the if faced with an aggressive person. person for up to three miles and it doesn’t have to be immediately either, the trail could be as Once service personnel have completed this cold as three hours old. If, while running away, course and have some experience handling the person drops anything, the PD will passively a PAT dog on unit, they may well have the indicate to its handler that there is something opportunity to return to DAC on a specialist there; it does this by lying down in front of the course. These include Police Dog (PD), Vehicle article. Search (VS), Arms and Explosive Search (AES), Drugs Dog (DD) High Assurance Search (HAS) This is not restricted to tracking, the PD can and Improvised Explosive Device Detection perform an open area search, indicating on any Dog (IE3D). There are also some maintainer article it finds - from a gun used in a shooting, a courses for each specialism which teach screwdriver used in a burglary or even a set of personnel how to train and maintain the dog keys you may have innocently lost. Don’t think to the required standard. DAC also provides the you’ll be safe in a building, this dog will search Kennel Manager’s Course. any building and once he locates you, it will bark to tell the handler it has found you. You The Police Dog (PD) is a multi-role dog, able can be completely out of sight and the PD will to perform nearly all aspects of the MWD still find you. If you show aggression or try and world - both detection and protection. Like the run away, it will happily use his teeth to detain PAT dog, they will chase and detain a fleeing and hold you - and it all starts here at DAC. intruder. However, the difference is that if the intruder stops and stands still, then the PD will The dog will be bought into DAC where it not bite but will instead stop in front (of the will go to the Police Training Section where intruder) and bark at him. The PD can also be RAFP or RAVC personnel will have 12 weeks to terminated from the chase by the handler’s train it before it can go through the pass out commands. process. Getting the dog to track takes the longest. Initially pattern tracks are used, where In addition to this protection work, it also on a single grassed field, straight leg tracks are 34 Provost Parade

Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 34 10/05/2016 11:58 made with a turn 45-90 degrees between each leg. Once the track is laid the dog will search the track straight away, with the time before he starts increasing as the training progresses. Hard surface (road crossings) or some gravel can be introduced onto the track, making it slightly harder. As the training progresses and the dog becomes proficient on hard surface tracking, he is then put onto operational tracks, meaning the track can go anywhere. It can take from 10-60 minutes to lay a track, and then you have to leave the track between 30mins and 4 hours before the PD can be worked. So, as you can see it takes time to train a PD and we use military bases at N. Luffenham, Kendrew Barracks (RAF Cottesmore), RAF Syerston, RAF Cranwell and the local public areas for training. Now we come to the detection side of dog handling. The one classification of dog the RAFP has that no other British Military Police have is the Drugs Dog (DD). As the name suggests, it searches for controlled substances and you may well have seen this type of dog at RAF Brize Norton searching all the passengers and baggage as you go or return from deployment. The DD will search buildings, open areas, vehicles, baggage and more importantly it will search people. The DD can detect the smallest trace of drugs so even if you had some in your pocket the day before, the DD will indicate on the trace left on yourself. The other classification you may be familiar with is the Vehicle Search (VS) and Arms and Explosive Search (AES) dogs. An AES dog will do the same as a DD, but searching for any forms of Arms and Explosives. The VS dog will search all types of vehicles from cars, trucks, planes, ships and trains looking for explosives and weapons. In training we are able to use the local areas around Melton, including factories, building merchants, the Royal British Legion, Halfords and other shopping venues. Not only are the local areas used, we deploy to RAF Cranwell plus RAF Brize Norton to train on the aircraft and in the terminal, along with HMS Sultan and Collingwood in Portsmouth with many students and dogs already having searched on the new Type 45 Destroyers. As always, DAC is looking towards the future and is focussing to enhance the learning experience on all courses whilst incorporating modern technologies both in the classroom and on the training areas. So if you wish to further your knowledge within the MWD world, whether training MWDs or the challenge of instructing your fellow peers - DAC is the place to be!

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 35 10/05/2016 11:58 MILITARY WORKING DOG’S HYDROTHERAPY Cpl Andy Duke, IC RAFP Dog Section at RAF Northolt tells us all about some new treatments undertaken by our canine friends…

AD Zico being AD Chess massaged by Jago

AD Chess with Jago

RAFP Dog Handlers will at depth examination, some stage in their career encounter longer confirmed what term injuries with their canine counterparts. our local vet had This is not only a day to day annoyance, but diagnosed. At this point my thoughts were to convinced me he knew what he was doing so I an unfortunate fact of life. RAF Dogs, like us, live cast or return both dogs - however I was reluctantly handed her over pool side. get injured from time to time especially when recommended by Vet Div to try hydrotherapy considering activities from obstacle courses, as a possible fix. To our surprise, after a few pulls on the life hard surface pursuits, scramble walls, jumping jacket and a well thrown ball, she was in - cars and the occasional flying Malinois missing I was initially sceptical about this treatment, gliding along like she’d done it many times its intended bite. MWDs are the embodiment and I fully anticipated being 2 PAT dogs before and thus her assessment and future of the term ‘Force Multiplier’ and it’s these down. I planned for the inevitable retirement enjoyment began. activities that can lead to problems in the of both canines and the process to get new joints, muscles ligaments and tendons. replacements. Or so I thought. AD Zico, being a lot higher strung but better natured dog, had a far funnier reaction to the During the mid-part of last year, RAF Northolt’s After research, I found Theravet, a local pool. As with Chess, he needed a few pulls to MWD Section was to be hit by not one but Canine and Equine Physio/Hydro centre in get in, however once off the ramp did not take two cases of weakened hips. AD Chess, a the local area and booked both canines in well, flailing his legs trying to cling to every side veteran PAT Malinois, for a consultation. We as if he were drowning. After about 15 minutes underwent a second had a review with the of manic splashing, he settled and realised he spate of operations physiotherapist who wasn’t going to sink and his confidence grew. to correct an injury noticed a distinct muscle Keen for the ball, he was lured back and forth sustained to her front loss with both dogs being rewarded at each end. middle toe, needing and recommended further amputation. building muscle Again, massive improvements have been seen Due to years of through hydro rather in his hind quarters and measurable muscle overcompensation in than physio treatment. mass has developed where before there was the way she walked We were handed over very little showing. Improvement in both dogs through pain in her front to Jago, their resident general fitness was noticed following only a pads, she was diagnosed hydrotherapist, who had few sessions in the pool. with arthritis in her high hopes that within back end. The vets tried AD Zico a matter of weeks we Although not finished with the treatments, AD the standard Previcox would see improvements Zico is now being worked and continuation approach to help reduce in both dogs. training has been started to get him back up to swelling; however licensing standards and once reteamed with a this would not be a Being his first time new handler, I believe he will become a valued permanent solution. working with MWDs, MWD. AD Chess has shown improvements and I was keen for the first conducting the therapy has certainly allowed At the same time, AD sessions to be conducted her to continue working longer than if left to Zico, an 18 month old muzzled, especially with drugs alone. However, her working career is hyperactive Dutch AD Chess as she has a coming to an end, not only due to arthritis but Herder arrived from the long history of reacting in sadly her age is catching up with her so she will Defence Animal Centre ‘unpleasant’ ways when soon retire, continuing her therapy up until this (DAC) with a strange being bathed! However, point to assist her for the rest of her life bunny hop limp. It showing absolutely no was, at first, thought to fear of the 35Kg bite I urge any Sections with dogs showing signs of be stiffness from the trained, water hating muscle weakness/lameness to consider trying journey down, but the Mali, Jago (now re- hydrotherapy as an addition to their prescribed local vet assessed him a named ‘Johnny Concrete’) treatments. It is also a great form of fitness and week later and noticed AD Zico was insistent that he recovery for dogs that have been off work for he had very little muscle took Chess in without a prolonged period of time and need their in his back end and muzzling so as not to fitness levels to increase. The marked results advised not to work him until a thorough distract the dog from the new experience of in both Chess and Zico have turned a sceptic investigation had been completed. DAC’s swimming in the pool. Although I was fearful into a believer and possibly saved an early Veterinary division, who gave Zico a full in that Chess may literally eat him alive, he retirement for AD Zico.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 36 10/05/2016 11:58 THE AIR PSYA CAMPAIGN: CYBER THE NEW FRONTLINE GOES VIRAL

n Sept 2014 the Air Warning from the PSyA area, accessible Advice & Reporting Point (WARP) through DII. introduced monthly incident growth trend analysis in order to Statistics from the Defence Social better understand current threats. Media Enterprise system – Defence IA targeted awareness campaign Connect, accessed through the was developed in conjunction with Defence Gateway showed that the MOD’s ‘Year of Cyber’ to ensure the info-graphic was viewed and enhanced protection of AIR information commented on 518 times within and assets through an improved security a month of its release. Various culture. departments across Defence have also incorporated the info-graphic ‘Cyber the New Front Line’ material was into threat awareness briefings. JFC released to RAF Stations which included stated ‘its gone viral’. posters, mobile phone shaped contact The Air Media Centre was cards, pull-up presentation stands and instrumental in the development of an innovative gate-fold leaflet. It was the campaign. the electronic material however that generated a significant amount of attention across the MOD such as an animated graphic that can be used Phase two of the campaign will commence in Apr 16 following the Air on web pages. All of the information can be viewed and downloaded WARP trend analysis of 2015 security incidents.

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Provost Parade 1 2016.indd 38 10/05/2016 11:59 Provost Parade 39

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