MAGAZINE

INSIGHTIssue 1 2012

Lincoln City football Club Put through their Paces

14 Squadron Out of the Shadows Flight Lieutenant Bill Brown Celebrates 100 years

InsightMAGAZINE 1 THE MAGAZINE OF RAF Waddington is now online: www.THEINSIGHTONLINE.CO.UK 2 InsightMAGAZINE Sixth Form boarding in Lincoln Robert de Cheney Boarding House The Robert de Cheney Boarding House is situated in the grounds of The Priory LSST, an academy in Lincoln which is consistently among the top five performing non-selective State schools in the country. It provides a wonderful opportunity for Sixth Form students to develop and flourish, both academically and socially.

Why choose The Priory? • Academy and Sixth Form rated outstanding by Ofsted • Spectacular sports provision includes a 60-metre • 99% A-Level pass rate (three subjects) and 98% GCSE indoor sprint track and a 400-metre synthetic outdoor pass rate (5+ A*-C, including English and Maths) running track, plus excellent field athletics facilities • 80% first choice university success rate, with • Swimming pool, fitness suite, climbing wall, spinning dedicated Sixth Form support staff and 25% of suite, dance studio and badminton courts students obtaining Russell Group places • Stunning residential centre near Bayeux, Normandy • Modern, well-appointed boarding includes 60 • Equestrian centre set in 90 acres of beautiful single en-suite study bedrooms with Wi-Fi farmland (with livery available upon request) • Kitchen, dining area and laundry plus a • Excellent national, international and Common Room on each floor, fully equipped intercontinental study trips with TV, DVD and audio equipment • Outstanding range of clubs, societies, extra- • State-of-the-art Sixth Form science facility, with research curricular activities and enrichment opportunities laboratories, a planetarium and a debating chamber • Thriving CCF, DofE and pastoral programmes

To arrange a visit or apply for 2012 and 2013 places, contact Mrs Jane Hopkinson, Deputy Head The Priory Academy LSST, Cross O’Cliff Hill, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN5 8PW Telephone: 01522 889977 l Email: [email protected] l Visit: www.prioryacademies.co.uk

InsightMAGAZINE 3 INSIGHT MAGAZINE Issue 1 2012

From the Editor…

Happy New Year to you all. Once again we have a really diverse range of articles, although you will notice that rather than just a summary of what everyone has been up to we have featured the new and the old, the arrival of 14 Squadron, and the history of 8 Squadron, linked to what they have been up recently – history repeating itself?

here is also a reminder that Waddington won all of the disciplines, in amongst all of the work a resounding success. Once again the there are still adventurous “more experienced” swimmers were training opportunities and rolled out!!! A few medals were won, the Station Sub Aqua Club gives an gold included (and I wasn’t the only Tinteresting account of their new boat swimmer in the event this time!!). It and their time in Porthkerris. Sport is great to get out there and enjoy the doesn’t miss out, and there is a Reminder camaraderie of sport, although my EDITORIAL TEAM: from 5 (Army Co-operation) Squadron ability to win individual events may be [email protected] that you can do both – a charity Row as waning, there are always the relays!! External Email: Use personal email addresses listed well as working hard on Operations. Well done to RAF Waddington for Tel: 01522 720271 (7801Ext No.) Since I last wrote, I haven’t been on retaining the Mounsey Trophy. Since its Editor: Operations but I have managed my annual new format RAF Waddington has won it Squadron Leader Vanessa Plumley swim for RAF Waddington. You will be 9 times, losing it once to RAF Cranwell. [email protected] pleased to read that RAF Waddington has So the challenge is there to retain it in Deputy Editor: retained the Mounsey Trophy. What is the 2012 – we shall see, hopefully some new Flight Lieutenant Danny Mortimer Mounsey Trophy? It is an RAF Swimming swimmers may come to the pool and I [email protected] Trophy which used to be awarded to the won’t be regaling you with tails of my Assistant Deputy Editor RAF Unit whose personnel swam the most aquatic success, but those of others. It Flying Officer Anna Sznerch lengths throughout the year. Each person is the Lincoln 10km next for me, so I [email protected] was challenged to swim 12 lengths, and will let you know if I break any records Distribution: unsurprisingly the stations with pools (personal ones not national!!). Cpl Stephen Calvert were the trophy winners. So about 10 Don’t forget the Station magazine Ext 6495 [email protected] years ago the criteria was changed and it is where you can share all of your Artwork: S Oliver is now awarded to the Station with the successes and announcements please Photography: highest number of points at the Inter send your articles to the Editorial Sgt Karl Whitelaw, Cpl Loz Platfoot, Cpl Sarah Draper, Station Swimming Championships. Team, email is listed below, the SAC Chris Davidson, SAC Lauren Pope, SAC Andy The competition includes – Water Polo, deadline for the next issue is 5 March. Stevens, SAC Ben Stevenson Diving, Mens and Ladies Swimming, RAF We look forward to hearing from you. Advertising by: Jo Marchant Tel: 01536 526674 Designed by: Mukesh Randev Tel: 01536 521126 Published by: Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road,Kettering.NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 512624 On the cover Fax: 01536 515481 Flt Lt Bill Brown www.lancepublishing.co.uk Celebrates 100 years Email: [email protected] Printed by: Lance Print Ltd

4 InsightMAGAZINE 30 28

27 22

Please send your contributions to: The Editor, Insight Magazine, RAF Waddington, In this Issue… Lincoln, LN5 9NB.

Station 06 Commander’s 22 Take Flight 29 14 Squadron ‘Out Foreword of the shadows’

5 (AC) Squadron 07 Commanding 22 Lincolnshire’s 30 ‘Row the Witham’ Officer’s Cup Year of Aviation Challange

Lincoln City Football JOHN GILLESPIE MAGEE 8 squadron SUN & 08 club Visit 23 THE PILOT POET 30 SAND, NOT A NEW THING!

70th Wedding 09 Exercise 24 Branston war hero 31 Anniversary of sqn PORTHKERRIS PADDLE commemorated Ldr (ret’d) Vernon

CRICKET CLUB 2011 SKEGNESS ACADEMY Snippets of ATC 12 SEASON SUMMARY 25 YEAR 9 VISIT 33 Activities in 2011

GOLF CLUB & COURSE Police Flight 13 2012 SEASON 27 C4I MOVEMBER 34 Charitable Donations

Flight Lieutenant STRESS DON’T GET 17 W.C Brown 28 WORKED UP OVER IT 34 Insight Quiz

The magazine is entirely funded by advertising and costs the Station nothing to produce. Insight is not an official publication and, unless otherwise stated, views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent MOD, RAF or Station policy. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the editor or publishers. Advertisements accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. Insight is produced by kind permission of the Station Commander, RAF Waddington.

InsightMAGAZINE 5 Station Commander’s Commanding Foreword... Officer’s Cup 2 011 By Corporal Cat Chambers Group Captain Al Gillespie Station Commander The aim of the Commanding Officer’s (CO’s) Cup is to Welcome to the first issue of the 2012 Insight provide mass participation Magazine. This is my first opportunity to write the in sport. The events are a foreword for Insight Magazine and it marks the start little different to synopsis of an exciting 2-year tour for me and my family. I was sports so that you don’t privileged to be appointed Station Commander Royal have to be the best athlete Air Force Waddington and ISTAR Force Commander in order to take part. It is on 2 Jan 12, having left only 2½ years ago, bound for all about having fun! Camp Bastion in Afghanistan.

served here previously, as an E-3D are as strong as I remember them. Squadron Commander and spent 2 Unfortunately, due to an unprecedented level years in Headquarters Air Command as of commitment, we were unable to parade the Group Captain responsible for the through the City during 2011. I hope to be Force Elements based at RAF Waddington. able to parade through the streets of Lincoln IAs a result, I understand the Station, the during 2012 in recognition of the ‘Freedom aircraft and the people and, I hope, what of the City’ honour bestowed on RAF makes Waddington tick. I watched with Waddington on 25th April 1959. immense pride over the last 12 months as In the magazine itself, you will hear Waddington personnel continued to deliver from No. 8 Squadron (E-3D Sentry) as they above and beyond expectations to meet report on their time in the sun and sand the simultaneous demands placed upon supporting operations over Libya. I am also them in supporting enduring operations most grateful to Flt Lt (Ret’d) Bill Brown, in Afghanistan and contingent operations aged 100, for his article that reflects on over the skies of Libya. I recognise that the his experiences as an RAF Commando. Station is still resting and recuperating, Our own Physical Education Flight have relative to the excesses of last year but been coaching Lincoln City Football Club continues to support operations in and putting them through the rigours of Afghanistan, and elsewhere, on a daily basis. the RAF Fitness test – I hope the training I will continue to ensure my support for all benefits the Imps during the rest of the Waddington personnel and their families as season. I am always pleased to see Station we regenerate our military capability, and sports clubs remain well-supported and that ensure we are ready to respond to the next opportunities exist to team-build through contingent requirement. activities such as Adventurous Training. 2012 promises to be another busy but The Station Sub-Aqua club report their exciting year for Waddington personnel at experiences from a rather chilly Porthkerris, home and overseas. While we will continue Cornwall on recent Adventurous Training to support high-tempo operations in Expedition. General Engineering Flight Afghanistan, we will also play our part in and No. 51 Squadron tell the story of their supporting once-in-a-lifetime events such ‘Mouvember’ antics and 5(AC) Squadron as HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and give details of their sponsored rowing event; 2012 Olympic Games - both from the air and well done to all for an impressive sum raised on the ground. Closer to home, I am looking for charity. I am pleased to say that most forward to being able to entertain you and are now clean-shaven again! Finally, it is a your families ‘inside the wire’ at the Royal proud moment for No 14 Squadron, recently Air Force Waddington International Air reformed here at RAF Waddington operating Show. It will be slightly earlier than normal the SHADOW R-1 aircraft. This is their this year over the weekend of 30th June / first opportunity to contribute to Insight 1st July but still provide an unparalleled Magazine and I will let them introduce opportunity to see the Royal Air Force and themselves and their aircraft inside. many of our civilian and military colleagues I hope you enjoy Insight magazine and I up close. The Station’s links with the City look forward to keeping you up to date with of Lincoln and the county of Lincolnshire developments throughout the year.

6 InsightMAGAZINE Commanding Officer’s Cup 2 011

PHOTOS he 2011 season started in January 56 Sqn managed to snatch the title from 8 was helped out by some very enthusiastic above with the Seated Volleyball. This Force Protection Wing, who were literally individuals in other teams who had to Swimming event is played exactly as it seconds behind. Other events in the calendar share that they knew the answers. I am Gala sounds- playing Volleyball whilst included Softball, Swimming, Chariot sure that they were very happy with the TOP RIGHT sitting on the floor! The final proved to be Racing, Dodgeball and Superstars which were help! ELW managed to finish in first Chariot Race Ta very closely fought competition where 8 spread over the year. There was not one team place in the Quiz but unfortunately due & Seated Squadron managed to see off ELW 22- 21. that appeared to be running away with the to a good performance from 8 Sqn they Volleyball The next event was Bucketball, this game is trophy, with wins in various competitions were unable to clinch the coveted CO’s RIGHT similar to netball but you can go anywhere recorded by 8 Sqn, ELW, Air Warfare Centre, Cup for 2011. This was awarded to 8 Sqn Softball on the court and to score you have to shoot 5 Sqn, Ops and 56 Sqn. By the penultimate by Gp Capt Jones on the evening. The LEFT the ball into a bucket which is held by a competition the CO’s Cup was proving to night finished with the presentation of It’s a Knockout! person stood on the bench. People were be a very closely fought out event with 8 awards for Sporting Achievement over below getting very competitive as it seemed they Sqn being in the lead, but just behind were the year. The Sports team of the year was Dodgeball were very focussed in trying to win. The ELW. It all came down to how both teams awarded to the Station Cricket team. The eventual champions were Operations Wing were going to perform on the last event Sportswoman of the year was given to SAC (Ops). The Fun day event was run alongside of the CO’s Cup calendar and that was the Williamson and the Sportsman of the Year the Health and Well being day in July. Quiz night. This took place in December to SAC Heaton. The 2012 events will start This saw ten teams challenge each other in in the Rugby Club. There were thirteen on 19 Jan 12 with Dodgeball. All interested various “It’s a Knockout” style competitions, teams that participated in various rounds personnel are to contact their section CO’s overcoming obstacles and attempting to find of sporting trivia. This included a “What Cup representative. The dates for the rest more crocodiles and ducks than the other happened next” round in which teams of the year are as follows: teams! After a very spirited competition were asked to guess what was going to Engineering and Logistics Wing (ELW) happen in the various scenarios displayed were declared the winners. Orienteering on screen. The teams were not prepared Forthcoming COs Cup Events was introduced for the first time last year for some of them and were left astonished Superstars- 22 Mar 12 in which sections had to split off into two at the gymnast attempting to vault a box DCCT shoot- 26 Apr 12 teams. One side were the “Brains” and but then accidentally landing right in the Rounders- 24 May 12 the other was the “Runners”. The Brains middle of the judges’ table! Teams also Sports Day- 19 Jul 12 were in charge of working out the cryptic participated in the Pictionary round with Orienteering- 20 Sep 12 clues in order to gain co-ordinates for the some people getting very excitable and just Swimming Gala- 25 Oct 12 Runners to dash off and find the markers, shouting out anything that popped into Bucketball- 22 Nov 12 which sometimes were a little hidden. This their heads! It was nice to see the 51 Sqn Sports Quiz- 4 Dec 12 competition again finished very close but team (that only consisted of two people)

InsightMAGAZINE 7 Lincoln City FC Visit By Corporal Neil Gardner

With no games being played for 2 weeks Lincoln City FC Manager

David Holdsworth approached me on the Monday to ask if it was Following on from the manager’s possible to get the players up to RAF Waddington and put them request to put his team through through some rigorous tests to help assess their fitness levels. their paces, we put the players through the RAF fitness test that ven though this was at short Half of the team were put through all personnel must successfully notice I asked the station the stretcher carry race with Rooners, achieve every 6 months. This gymnasium if it was at all as they ran around a course taking measures their aerobic capacity possible. Flight Sergeant Jim turns to act as “casualty” as their team as well as upper body and Dick took a long hard look at his manning mates carried them around, changing abdominal strength. Some of Eand told me he would be able to support each time with a whistle blast. the players achieved excellent our request on the Thursday afternoon. The other half was put through their results, which is to be expected With the Physical Training Instructors paces with a jerry can and 70kg dummy drag of a professional footballer. (PTIs) on board and with assistance from over a 25m course in a set time. Both teams On the battle PT session, the Squadron Leader Dave Tague it was a were exhausted at the end of their events, players worked extremely hard done deal to get the team on base. and after a quick water break they swapped as they performed exercises Lincoln Players turned up in convoy around to complete both challenges. such as team stretcher carry at 1300 hrs not knowing what to expect The final event was the iron soldier and 70kg casualty drag until they met Corporal Jinks, a 6ft challenge, made famous by Soccer AM. which are roles that service 3in 15st Rugby League player with a This involved the players running out to personnel are training for dislike for footballers! Corporal Dale collect various weighted power bags one PHOTOS prior to going on Operational Jinks (Jinksy) was assisted by the more at a time and bringing them back to the Top duty. I was very impressed ‘happy go lucky’ Sergeant Mark Rooney start point. The last race was a head to Roundel Race with their team work skills, (Rooners) and they were given only one head between the coaches; Neil Gardner TOP-RIGHT and the attitude displayed request from the manager. “Can the PTI’s and Matt Carmichael who, it has to be said Push Up Test by the lads throughout a very put the lads through the RAF fitness were strongly press ganged into taking part. BElow arduous training session.“ test and work them to the max.” Both coaches were practically dragged over Stretcher Race The lads realised what they had to do the finish line by the players, resulting in a Sergeant Rooney and showed a great spirit and just got on massive pile of coaching staff and players! Physical Education Flight with it. The immense effort was displayed By the end the lads were completely by Simon Russell reaching level 15-9 on the exhausted after working hard throughout bleep test, Ali Fuseini pushing out 85 press with great encouragement from the ups and Nick Nicolau banging out 76 sit ups PTI’s. Though it was not their idea of in 1 minute. But little did the lads know that fun there were plenty of laughs had this was not all the Gym staff had planned, by all. From my point of view it was as this was a warm up for what was to follow. good to see the lads show togetherness Once outside, the team were split with a great team spirit which for me into two smaller working groups and is what the forces are all about. were introduced to a Battle PT session. On behalf of Lincoln City FC I would This is an extremely hard working circuit like to thank the RAF Waddington designed at getting service personnel gymnasium staff, in particular Sgt Mark fitter prior to deploying on Operations Rooney and Cpl Dale Jinks for their by working through exercises that excellent support and we hope this is are similar to movements they may the start of a strong friendship between encounter for real out in theatre. RAF Waddington and Lincoln City FC.

8 InsightMAGAZINE Exercise PORTHKERRIS PADDLE By late October, most diving clubs in the UK are in the pub reminiscing about what they’ve been up to throughout the year, with the odd tall tale of daring feats and talk of ever more ambitious plans for the next year. The RAF Waddington/Digby/Scampton Sub-Aqua Club however decided to squeeze in a final trip to Porthkerris, Cornwall before the weather started to make coastal diving ever more difficult.

n arrival at the diving centre ship that sunk striking Shark’s Fin Rock in on Friday evening, we met up 1895. The location we had was imprecise with the other contingent from and despite Daz and Rick carrying out a Boscombe Down who were lengthy search of the seabed, we didn’t find with us for the weekend. The first event the Andola. Rik and I noted that darkness Oon Saturday morning was a shakedown was starting to fall so elected not to dive, checking kit and practising drills. continue the search with a second dive, but Diving commenced straight from the steps instead to return to Porthkerris and dived of the diving centre, with a fairly simple to carry out some work to strengthen the route around the rocks and gullies and mooring buoy. through the kelp, back round to the beach. Tuesday’s diving was carried out in Porthkerris has an abundance of marine vicinity of the stunning Raglan Reef life from lobster to octopus and anemones followed by a drift dive near the Manacles; a to corals. Standards of navigation varied group of rocks that has proven catastrophic PHOTOS break; the relatively remote location and with some pairs surfacing within a couple of to many ships in bad weather over the years. Top right self sufficient nature of the Exped meant metres of the beach and others having to use During the latter dive, Rik and I stumbled Waddington that that the daily routine of feeding and somewhat frowned upon ‘pop up navigation’ across some unidentified wreckage, Crew administering ourselves kept the 4 of us technique to get themselves heading in the amongst which we were lucky enough to above busy and sleeping well. correct direction. With correct weighting find some china. The hallmark indicates Marine Life Although coastal diving is pretty and minor kit issues sorted, the afternoon’s that it was made in Staffordshire in the late background much finished for the year, plans are dive followed a similar vein for another poke 1800s. Hopefully a bit of investigative work Dive Location already underway for next year. Early in about between the kelp. might help to identify the wreck. the 2012 we plan to qualify personnel in The momentous launch of the club’s new The weather wasn’t as kind to us later administering oxygen and boat handling boat was achieved on Sunday. After a great in the week and we couldn’t launch the in the club boat. We’re also looking to run deal of time and money, it was very satisfying boat from Porthkerris so we towed the boat an Ocean Diver course to qualify personnel to see the boat on the water. Her first trip round to the sheltered harbour of Falmouth. with no prior experience over 2 weekends. took the exped’s members to the wreck of On the Wednesday, we looked to dive the In terms of diving, we’re looking at trips the Volnay, a 4609 ton steamship that was wreck of the Stanwood but, again with an to Flamborough Head, the Farne Islands, sunk in 1914 and now sits in about 20 metres imprecise location, we saw only the seabed of Anglesey and Ascension Island, with a in the bay of Porthallow. The culmination of the harbour’s shipping lane. Diving was out number of more local single day expeds this dive represented another momentous of the question on Thursday but we carried dotted about. Over the winter months we occasion – the completion of Rick’s BSAC out some boat handling practice around the offer training at local inland sites. The Advanced Diver qualification after several harbour to tighten up our skills under Rik’s club is open to all Waddington, Digby and years training towards it. instruction so the day was far from wasted. Scampton based personnel; divers from By Monday, the Boscombe Down The week provided an excellent any training organisation are welcome. If bunch had departed, leaving only 4 of us opportunity to get in some late season you’ve never dived before, come along and at the centre and some windy weather. We diving and as always, the selection of have a go in the pool with no obligation to managed to get out to the Volnay again in wrecks and impressive range of marine join. Every first and third Thursday of the the morning where we all dived the other life proved how diverse and rewarding UK month we’re in the pool at Waddington half of the wreck, finding the odd WW1 diving is. The week was, however hard work from 1900 and we do theory training in artefact, including lead shot from the shells throughout. The daily routine of swimming the back of the Raven’s Club at 1900 on she was carrying. By the afternoon, we out to get the boat, loading all of the kit other Thursdays. For dates of events, up to needed a site that was sheltered from the that is required for UK diving, sitting in date information or contact details check strengthening wind. Rik had some scant the cold and wind and getting the kit and the RAF Waddington MOSS page (Stn details of a wreck, nestled amongst some boat squared away at the end of the day Clubs > Sub-Aqua Club) or search for ‘RAF rocks, called the Andola – a 3 masted sailing meant that the actual diving was a welcome Waddington Sub-Aqua Club’ on Facebook.

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InsightMAGAZINE 11 ltimately, RAF Waddington Adcock (56(R) Squadron) represented Cricket Club won the East the RAF at Senior Level. RAF WADDINGTON of England Cricket League Cpl Wray and SAC Diver also went on (EECL) winning every match to represent the Combined Services. except one which was a close encounter SAC Paul Heaton (5(AC) Sqn), SAC CRICKET CLUB Uagainst last year’s League winners RAF Steve Baker (8 Sqn Eng) and SAC Steve Digby. Below is a list of the Cricket Norton (Fire Section) represented the RAF 2 011 s eason Club’s results for 2011 containing some Eagles squad for up-and-coming talent. impressive notable performances. Furthermore, other Cricket Club SUMMARY As a result of RAF Waddington members are involved significantly By Flight Lieutenant Chas Gimenez winning the League, the Station Cricket in the running of the East of England team represented the EECL against the Cricket League (EECL) as follows: Despite the numerous commitments London Area Cricket League (LACL) across the Station during 2011, RAF winners RAF Odiham at RAF Vine Lane The EECL Chairman is Waddington’s Cricket Club managed (the Home of RAF Cricket), Uxbridge, Fligt Lieutenant John Jones (8 Sqn). to fulfil virtually every fixture during the on 7 Sep 11 but unfortunately were The EECL Secretary is cricket season which is testimony to narrowly beaten in an entertaining Corporal Ian Walsh (14 Sqn Shadow). match played in an excellent spirit. The EECL Treasurer is the enthusiasm of Station personnel RAF Waddington Cricket Club Flight Sergeant Carl Walton committed to find time to play also reached the EECL T20 Finals held (14 Sqn Shadow). representative sport. at Clifton Village Cricket Club near Nottingham, but again narrowly missed Additionally, Sgt Fraser-Cattanach, out on another trophy coming second FS Walton and Cpl Walsh regularly only on run-rate. RAF Waddington also coach at local civilian clubs; Cpl Walsh reached the RAF Cup Quarter Finals and also coaches the RAF Ladies team. was drawn to play RAF Lossiemouth but, As can be seen, we are quite an active due to logistical reasons were unable to Club with regular involvement from get a side to Stirling in Scotland. This Representative to Grass Roots level. was a bitter pill to swallow given that However, we are far from a closed shop Stirling is not remotely midway between and welcome anybody interested in the 2 Stations and it was not a mutually playing cricket at any standard. This agreed venue as per the Comp Rules. season’s success has been founded on the Particular individuals from the Station fact that we have a number of personnel also played at various representative extremely keen to play cricket but it is levels during the season as follows: always a struggle to get personnel away Corporal Jake Wray (GEF), from their busy workplaces. Therefore, Senior AirCraftman Ross Diver (8 the more players we have who want Sqn Eng) and Flight Lieutenant Tim to play cricket, the more likely the CLUB RESULTS 2011

DATE OPPONENT SCORE RESULT COMPETITION NOTABLE PERFORMANCES Wad 278 for 4 Wad won by SAC P Heaton 118 & 3 for 10 4 May 11 RAF Cottesmore EECL Cott 110 All Out 168 Runs SAC D Wornham 88 Cott 133 for 4 Wad won by 11 May 11 RAF Cottesmore EECL T20 SAC P Heaton 47 Not Out Wad 135 for 2 8 wickets Wad 156 All Out Wad won by SAC P Heaton 40 1 Jun 11 RAF Marham EECL Mar 135 All Out 21 Runs SAC G Standerline 3 for 31 Wad 149 for 5 Wad won by 9 Jun 11 RAF Cranwell T20 Friendly N/A Cran 85 for 8 64 Runs Dig 129 for 5 Dig won by 15 Jun 11 RAF Digby EECL T20 Finals Day N/A Wad 105 for 7 24 Runs Wad 159 for 3 Witt won by SAC R Diver 46 15 Jun 11 RAF Wittering EECL T20 Finals Day Witt 161 for 8 2 Wickets SAC P Heaton 42 SAC G Standerline 64 Wad 198 All Out Wad won by 13 July 11 RAF Marham RAF Cup 2nd Round Not Out & 4 for 10 Mar 17 All Out 181 Runs SAC P Heaton 6 for 6 Wad 185 for 5 Dig won by 3 Aug 11 RAF Digby EECL Sgt Fraser-Cattanach 89 Dig 186 for 4 6 Wickets Con 38 All Out Wad won by 17 Aug 11 RAF Coningsby EECL Sgt G Gilbert 4 for 5 Wad 39 for 2 8 Wickets Wad 138 for 7 Wad won by 17 Aug 11 RAF Coningsby T20 Friendly Con 92 for 9 46 Runs SAC P Heaton 135 Wad 388 for 2 Wad won by 31 Aug 11 RAF Wittering EECL Sqn Ldr M Deakin 158 Not Out Witt 114 for 7 274 Runs SAC G Standerline 3 for 23 Wad 191 All Out Odi won by 7 Sep 11 RAF Odiham EECL V LACL SAC J Wray 40 Odi 194 for 5 5 Wickets

12 InsightMAGAZINE RAF WADDINGTON GOLF CLUB & COURSE 2012 SEASON By Squadron Leader Colin Woolfson

Turn of the year and we start looking forward to the 2012 season but I would however like to quickly reflect on a very successful 2011 for the Club.

Station will be to produce a team. If, PHOTOS ith the very good weather in day, opened discussions with the other clubs ultimately, it leads to success, like this Above the early part 2011, the course represented with a view to re-invigorating season, then so much the better. My Individual was in fantastic condition the 9-hole league; it is hope this league may remit is to do everything that I can to Trophy for the time of year and the recommence in 2012 or 2013. facilitate Station personnel playing and, Presentations members were able to enjoy some excellent For the forthcoming 2012 season, the most importantly, enjoying cricket. To by the Stn Wearly season golf. Indeed the course remained membership fees have been pegged at last year’s that end, the Cricket Club, with much Cdr in the in excellent condition throughout the year and prices (please see panel below for full details). appreciated assistance from the PEd Flt Stn Gym on those who played the course remarked upon The Committee is again organising Staff, has worked very hard to generate Fri 25 Nov 11 how much they enjoyed playing there. matches against some of Lincolnshire’s best some good cricket facilities on Station Left During the year the members, golf clubs, arranging a spring meeting and for personnel to use – please feel free Group photo representing RAF Waddington, played a local competitions. For those interested in to come along next season and join in. from the number of matches against other local clubs; playing golf and gaining a handicap, the Club The Cricket Club AGM is likely to be on EECL Trophy against Boston, Waddington won back the holds competitions most Sunday mornings Tue 31 Jan 12, time and place TBD; all are coveted Blade trophy and against Pottergate throughout the year and also offers casual and welcome to attend and volunteers for posts and Humberston, in two legged contests, group/society golf at £5 per person per day. within the Club are always well received. Waddington was also victorious. The Club For those who wish to play golf without some Indoor Net Training will commence also held a very successful Capt’s Day with 30 of the conditions that local clubs may impose, for on Tue 7 Feb 12, 1730-1900hrs in the members and guests competing for the Capt’s players who may think they cannot commit to Station Gym where we have a Double trophy. Members of the Club also played in a much larger and more expensive club, I would Bay Indoor Net and Bowling Machine the Rita Hurst competition (for 9-hole clubs) encourage you to investigate the Stn Golf Club freshly equipped with new balls. at Sutton Bridge GC and whilst enjoying the and Course – come and join us.

DATE OPPONENT SCORE RESULT COMPETITION NOTABLE PERFORMANCES RAF WADDINGTON GOLF CLUB & COURSE - 2012 SEASON: OPEN TO MILITARY/ DEPENDANTS/ CIVILIANS ASSOCIATED WITH Wad 278 for 4 Wad won by SAC P Heaton 118 & 3 for 10 4 May 11 RAF Cottesmore EECL Cott 110 All Out 168 Runs SAC D Wornham 88 RAF WADDINGTON/ VETERANS AND INVITED GUEST MEMBERS Cott 133 for 4 Wad won by 11 May 11 RAF Cottesmore EECL T20 SAC P Heaton 47 Not Out Wad 135 for 2 8 wickets ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP (MALE) - £200 + £10 LUGC FEE = HANDICAP/ COMPETITIONS Wad 156 All Out Wad won by SAC P Heaton 40 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP (FEMALE) - £100 = HANDICAP/ COMPETITIONS 1 Jun 11 RAF Marham EECL Mar 135 All Out 21 Runs SAC G Standerline 3 for 31 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP (JUNIOR) - £50 Wad 149 for 5 Wad won by 7 MONTH (APR-OCT) FULL MEMBERSHIP- £150 + £10 LUGC = HANDICAP/ COMPETITIONS 9 Jun 11 RAF Cranwell T20 Friendly N/A Cran 85 for 8 64 Runs 5 MONTH (OCT-APR) WINTER MEMBERSHIP - £80 Dig 129 for 5 Dig won by 5 DAY MEMBERSHIP - £150 15 Jun 11 RAF Digby EECL T20 Finals Day N/A Wad 105 for 7 24 Runs COUNTY MEMBERSHIP - £95 Wad 159 for 3 Witt won by SAC R Diver 46 15 Jun 11 RAF Wittering EECL T20 Finals Day CASUAL GREEN FEES - £5 PER DAY OR £15 FOR A CALENDAR MONTH Witt 161 for 8 2 Wickets SAC P Heaton 42 SOCIETY DAYS - £5 PER PERSON SAC G Standerline 64 Wad 198 All Out Wad won by 13 July 11 RAF Marham RAF Cup 2nd Round Not Out & 4 for 10 Mar 17 All Out 181 Runs FOR DETAILS CONTACT SAC P Heaton 6 for 6 Sqn Ldr Colin Woolfson (01522 727849 Wad 185 for 5 Dig won by 3 Aug 11 RAF Digby EECL Sgt Fraser-Cattanach 89 Sgt Barry Emms (01522 726707) OR Dig 186 for 4 6 Wickets Mr Mark Phizacklea (01522 727308) Con 38 All Out Wad won by 17 Aug 11 RAF Coningsby EECL Sgt G Gilbert 4 for 5 Wad 39 for 2 8 Wickets OR VISIT http://www.waddingtongolfclub.co.uk/contacts.html Wad 138 for 7 Wad won by 17 Aug 11 RAF Coningsby T20 Friendly Con 92 for 9 46 Runs LUGC (LINCOLNSHIRE UNION of GOLF CLUBS) £10 AFFILIATION PER MALE MEMBER) SAC P Heaton 135 Wad 388 for 2 Wad won by 31 Aug 11 RAF Wittering EECL Sqn Ldr M Deakin 158 Not Out The Data Protection Act 1984 requires you be informed that the information you Witt 114 for 7 274 Runs SAC G Standerline 3 for 23 provide on the membership form will be held on a database for the exclusive Wad 191 All Out Odi won by use of the members and officials of the RAF Waddington Golf Club 7 Sep 11 RAF Odiham EECL V LACL SAC J Wray 40 Odi 194 for 5 5 Wickets

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16 InsightMAGAZINE became obvious that they would be taking Eventually, after they had been sailing part in a landing somewhere. A landing for about three weeks it became clear that at Dieppe in August had turned into a their landing would be on a part of Africa Flight disaster costing many lives and a great - but where? At last orders were issued deal of equipment, so it was unlikely to be which showed that their assault would be Lieutenant mainland Europe. on the French Algerian coast at a point just After more intensive training, east of Algiers. Bill’s section’s task was to which included simulated landings establish beachhead communications and W.C Brown on enemy beaches, they proceeded to then proceed to Maison Blanche, the main Belfast where they were transferred airfield serving Algiers. It was vital that Signals Officer to USS Leedstown, a former American this airfield was captured as a base for our RAF Waddington luxury liner. They shared the ship own aircraft. The war in North Africa was with US soldiers who were to be part not going well and it seemed sensible to 1941- 42 of the operation. Sadly, they weren’t push the Germans from the west. accommodated in any sort of luxury After heading through the Straits but crowded together in considerable of Gibraltar, their ship survived many discomfort, some of the US men living attacks both from submarines and Flight Lieutenant Bill Brown is in extremely cramped conditions down aircraft. Eventually, they started the quite a remarkable man with in the bilges. Following further beach assault on 8 November during which Bill’s an extraordinary history. Despite landing exercises with the American section came under fierce attack from becoming a centenarian on 19 troops they joined a massive convoy Vichy French and Foreign Legion forces. November 2011, he is an active which was forming off the Firth of Fortunately, there were some French member of the 44 Squadron Clyde and set sail on 12 October. Their Resistance in the area and they helped in route took them north through the clearing the way. After overcoming the Association, still drives his car and Western Approaches and then west defences the Beachhead communications is a member of Twickenham Rugby almost as far as Newfoundland through system was set up and some of Bill’s team Club for which he used to play. some extremely cold waters. There was were able to move on to Maison Blanche very little U-boat activity in these cold which had been taken by the assault e has always craved excitement waters. However, when they turned forces. There was still very considerable and adventure, never being south the attacks started. They were bombing and strafing by German and afraid to take the occasional harassed day and night by the U-boats Italian aircraft – this went on for many risk. Whilst serving as a with an almost constant sound of days until British fighters from Gibraltar Signals Officer at RAF Waddington during depth charges exploding. At times the could be based at Maison Blanche and HWWII, Bill couldn’t help thinking that Leedstown was committed to violent repel the attacks. more adventure was available elsewhere weaving manoeuvres which, in rough Before the landing commenced, and so he readily replied to a notice calling weather, made life very uncomfortable. his team had been issued with special for volunteers for ‘Special Signals Duties under training’. These duties would eventually lead to Bill playing an integral part in Operation Torch - The British- American invasion of Northern Africa in November 1942. At his birthday celebration in the Officers’ Mess, organised by the 44 Sqn Association in 2011, Bill recounted the following vivid recollection of his adventure after he left RAF Waddington: Within two weeks of applying, Bill was on his way to Scotland to join HMS Dundonald, a shore based establishment near Troon. Confusingly, the naval unit was located at an Army Camp; he had to wear khaki uniform for training and the whole project he was involved in was very secret. In the following few months, Bill became the Commanding Officer of Signals Section B of Advanced Landing Group 1 (ALG1); a team of 22 men comprising 1 Flight Sergeant, 1 Sergeant and 20 Airmen, all signals specialists. They all received training in ‘hand to hand’ fighting; tough route marching, bayonet fighting and learning to drive any sort of vehicle. Map reading and setting up camps in remote areas of Scotland featured large in their training. It

InsightMAGAZINE 17 currency for use by the Allied forces. They was prepared as well as possible for the was directed to reconnoitre another left their own money and all their other arrival of three Spitfires which flew in Advanced Landing Ground about 10 non essential possessions on the USS the following day, and then the bombing miles from the front line. By this time, Leedstown. The day after they landed, the and strafing by German aircraft began in the unit had acquired a Matchless Leedstown was sunk and they were left earnest. The Germans dropped hundreds motorbike which Bill found very useful. with just what they were wearing! of butterfly bombs which caused great With two of his team, they loaded Bill was then tasked with setting damage. The Spitfires were a great help in the truck with equipment (and the up a communications post at Souk el tackling the bombers but they were also Matchless) and set off for the front. Arba airfield, about 20 miles inside needed in support of the front line forces. The journey was quite chaotic, the Tunisia. This meant a journey of some Bad weather interrupted the enemy air road being full of vehicles heading 300 miles across the Atlas Mountains attacks but, on 22 November, Bill had to towards the front and under almost on twisting and dangerous mountain witness the death of one of his men and constant air attack. When they arrived roads, passing through villages where the the wounding of several others through at the chosen spot they found it to be locals seemed friendly. They started the bombing and strafing. The dead man, totally unsuitable as a forward landing journey in convoy with others involved being a Muslim, had to be buried within ground but they still suffered air attacks, in establishing the Advanced Landing presumably because the Germans thought Ground but one of the vehicles broke they might be trying to establish it as a down and it was decided that the convoy landing ground. would not abandon it. Bill and his team Things had not been going too well had to push on ahead on their own, secure The journey was quite chaotic, the road being full of for the Allies and Bill was ordered to in the belief that the Allied army will be vehicles heading towards the front and under almost return with his men to the base at Souk up ahead and will have taken the Souk el constant air attack. When they arrived at the chosen el Arba. He decided, rather on the spur Arba airfield. It was thought that the rest spot they found it to be totally unsuitable as a forward of the moment, to have a look at the of the convoy would soon catch up with landing ground but they still suffered air attacks, southern part of the front line. He sent them. So now they were on their own - just presumably because the Germans thought they might his men back in the truck, telling them 2 vehicles and 22 men. be trying to establish it as a landing ground.” that he wouldn’t be long before returning. A French officer they met pointed the He then headed south on his motorbike route to the airfield, but they still hadn’t avoiding the main roads and using mule heard or seen anything of the main Allied tracks. On his journey he passed through force. Eventually they reached the site of many villages which had been completely the Advanced Landing Ground and set up 24 hours; he was buried locally with as destroyed by shelling and bombing, with camp. It was the next day before the main much dignity as possible. Bill’s tent was bodies lying by the roadside, scenes which Allied forces reached them and it was then destroyed in the strafing and he was forced he will never forget. that Bill realised that he and his team to sleep out on the ground without much His route took him through a pass had been the vanguard of the Allied entry cover. He awoke one morning to find with a high ridge on either side. He into Tunisia, with the German forces only himself lying in a puddle which was a few decided to have a closer look at the pass 10 miles ahead of them. The date was 18 inches deep. Clean and dry clothes were as a possible route for the Axis forces to November, only 10 days after the landing out of the question. The only way to dry his use. To do this, he parked his motorbike on the beaches. clothes was on the radiator of his truck. in a sheltered spot away from prying eyes, A Communication Centre was set up After setting up a Communication and climbed the ridge to have a closer look and the remainder of the convoy joined Centre at Souk el Arba, and suffering at the area. It was then that he heard the them on the following day. The airfield the torment of frequent air raids, Bill sound of car engines and a German car

18 InsightMAGAZINE His next encounter was with Free French Forces on their part of the front line. He managed to convince them that, Serious changes were taking place at his base. in spite of his dishevelled appearance, he American forces were arriving en masse with a force of was an RAF officer and informed them of Boston bombers and Bill’s section was being run down in the German scout’s position. They then preparation for a handover to a permanent signals unit. passed this information back to their When this was completed, Bill and his 15 men found a headquarters. Bill stayed the night with beautiful spot in the Tunisian hills where they were able them, enjoying the luxury of a bed of to enjoy a heavenly rest for a few days, away from the straw. The next day he arrived back at his bombing and strafing which had been almost constant base at Souk el Arba. for some two months. ” His Commanding Officer was not a happy man and said that Bill could have been charged with being absent without leave. To save himself any embarrassment, Bill kept to himself details of his After a tiring motorbike journey encounter with the German advance party during which he was splattered with and fobbed off any questions about his mud, he arrived at the HQ and, just as he injured foot. However, the news which parked his Matchless, it burst into flame; he had given to the French about the the end of his faithful bike. His sartorial German positions had alerted the Force condition was such that he had a difficult Headquarters and steps were taken to job in convincing the Duty Officer that he shore up that part of the front. really was a RAF officer and that he was Serious changes were taking place at expected. After bathing and being given and a van drove into view in the pass. They his base. American forces were arriving a new set of battledress he met the CO. parked and two officers got out of the car. en masse with a force of Boston bombers He was told that his unit would be broken Bill thought that he had better move on and Bill’s section was being run down up and the men sent individually to other and he slowly edged his way back from the in preparation for a handover to a units, as required. This was a very sad ridge towards his bike. Unfortunately, he permanent signals unit. When this was time for Bill. He and his team had been was spotted and captured by a scout. completed, Bill and his 15 men found a through a lot together. They had a great He was taken to the officers who beautiful spot in the Tunisian hills where sense of duty and were congratulated questioned him at length but all they they were able to enjoy a heavenly rest for on what they had achieved in their work got from him was the usual, name, rank a few days, away from the bombing and under very difficult circumstances. and number. Then they became angry strafing which had been almost constant So ended Bill’s part in Operation Torch; and started beating him. At one point for some two months. They maintained it seems that his team had been held in the officer stamped on his foot causing contact with their base and eventually high regard and they received much praise extreme pain which stayed with him for orders came that Bill was to report to for the work that they had done at Souk al many weeks. Eventually, realising that Command HQ, some 50 miles west, for Arba, which had been more important and they would get no information from Bill, further instructions. significant than Bill had at the time thought. the officers left to continue their recce, leaving Bill guarded by one soldier. Bill was now very worried. He was on an unauthorised route back to his base, had been captured and now had valuable information about a possible route which the Germans might use to break through the Allied line. He tried to think of ways to escape. He was now sitting outside the van with his guard a few feet away, carrying a rifle trained on Bill. After some time, he indicated that he would welcome a cigarette. His guard thought about it and threw a packet to Bill. He took one out and threw the packet back to the guard, ensuring that the packet fell a few feet short of him. The guard leaned forward to pick it up and this was Bill’s chance. In spite of his very painful foot, he leapt forward; catching the guard unawares and they both tumbled onto the ground. Bill managed to grab a rock which he used to smash on the guards face which knocked him unconscious. Bill disabled the van and managed to hobble, with some difficulty, back to his motorbike and continued on his unauthorised journey.

InsightMAGAZINE 19 LARKFLEET MAKES IT ‘EZY’ TO BUY A NEW HOME ocal housebuilder Larkfleet Homes is Homes property. For more information on The www.larkfleethomes.co.uk for information making it easy for members of the armed Armed Forces Home Ownership Scheme visit on the full range of Ezy options and all L forces to buy their own Larkfleet property www.afhos.co.uk. current Larkfleet developments. with a package of offers as part of its ‘Ezy’ options. On top of all this, the MoD’s Long Service All Lakfleet’s Ezy options are subject to terms Advance of Pay (LSAP) scheme can also and conditions. Ezy-forces is a special scheme designed to assist you to buy your own property. Eligible assist people from the RAF and other armed personnel can receive an interest-free loan services to purchase a new home. of up to £8,500 which can be put towards a property deposit. Whether you are relocating within the UK, returning from overseas or taking the first step Sometimes practical help is as important as on the housing ladder as an investor, Larkfleet financial assistance and Larkfleet Homes can offer you professional advice, financial is very experienced in assisting customers assistance and practical help. moving from overseas. The company’s staff can help sort out paperwork and put you For example, the scheme can provide you with in touch with suppliers of everything from up to five per cent of your deposit and up to removals services to pet care. £500 towards fees for financial advisors and solicitors. Karl Hick, Larkfleet Homes’ managing director, commented: “Larkfleet understands the In addition, you can claim a £2,000 voucher housing needs of members of the armed forces to personalise your new home from and offers the Ezy-forces scheme to help make Larkfleet’s ‘Just for You’ centre that includes the move into a new home as simple a comprehensive range of items and services as possible.” to add that ‘finishing touch’ to any property. The package also includes turfed gardens and Larkfleet currently has several developments in carpets throughout the house to make moving- the East Midlands and East Anglia within easy in as swift and easy as possible. travelling distance of RAF Waddington.

Larkfleet customers can also benefit from There are new Larkfleet homes for sale in the The Armed Forces Home Ownership Scheme, village of Eye near Peterborough, in Oakham an independent initiative to help members in Rutland, and in Bourne, Donington and of the armed forces buy a home to suit their Deeping St James in Lincolnshire. individual needs. You can contact a sales adviser on 01778 Eligible homebuyers could be lent between 391555 for more information on Larkfleet’s 15 and 50 per cent of the value of a Larkfleet Ezy-forces package or visit the website at

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InsightMAGAZINE 21 TAKE FLIGHT By Dave Harrigan MBE

Exciting new Teachers’ By Dave Harrigan MBE Pack education resources for aviation. Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire (AHL) is funded by a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) award of £436,000 and throughout 2012 AKE FLIGHT education resources are now available via the Schools the AHL Team will be organising a series of events and talks & Education Link on the Aviation at venues across Lincolnshire which will highlight the county’s Heritage Lincolnshire (AHL) website diverse aviation heritage and history. at http://www.aviationheritagelincolnshire.com TTAKE FLIGHT is designed to highlight 17th April 2012 Lincolnshire’s aviation heritage to young Augsburg Raid 70th Anniversary Talk 29th September 2012 people across the county and throughout the An evening talk by the aviation historian Tribute to the Eagle Squadrons UK; encouraging school visits to the county’s Robert Owen to commemorate the 70th Memorial Unveiling & Talk venues and providing direct access to a host of Anniversary of the RAF’s major daylight Memorial unveiling at Kirton in Lindsey new educational resources. The TAKE FLIGHT bombing raid on the MAN diesel factory Town Hall, followed by a talk by Phil education package is believed to be the largest in Augsburg, Southern Germany. Bonner, Aviation Development Officer, ever single release of aviation based education Venue: The Petwood Hotel, Woodhall AHL about the American Air Force activities and resources to the UK’s education Spa, Lincs, LN10 6QG Squadrons that were based at RAF Kirton sector; covering nine venues in the unique in Lindsey during World War II. AHL partnership. 16th May 2012 Venue: The Town Hall, Kirton in The main themes for TAKE FLIGHT are: Falklands Campaign 30th Anniversary Lindsey, North Lincs DN21 4LZ Science of Aviation; The Home Front and Bomber “Sailing With The Queen” An evening Command. Each venue has bespoke resources talk by Chief Pattisier Stephen Hallam 14th to 28th October 2012 for use with young people at Key Stages 1, 2 and about his exploits from pampering Cuban Missile Crisis, Tour & Talks 3; plus extensive Teacher’s Notes and details passengers luxuriously cruising A series of talks and events covering the about how to plan a visit to the venue. As an around the world to suddenly being period of the Cuban Missile Crisis which added bonus each venue has Loans Boxes and thrown into the cold and stark reality occurred 50 years ago that month; these will Object Handling activities designed to support of the South Atlantic Campaign. include a talk by aviation historian John and enhance any educational visit, which are Venue: The Branston Hall Hotel, Boyce and an escorted coach tour of several available for free utilisation if booked in advance. Branston, Lincoln, LN4 1PD Cold War locations across Lincolnshire. AHL is funded by a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) award of £436,000 and AHL’s remit is to June 2012 work with various venues to raise the profile of RFC Talk aviation heritage in the county, and promote Talk by aviation historian Andy aviation within schools and colleges. TAKE Johnson about the formation of the FLIGHT focuses on Science, History, English, Royal Flying Corps and its connections Advanced booking Art & Design and ICT; and features embedded to Lincolnshire and early aviation. arrangements for each literacy and numeracy activities. Date and venue to be confirmed. event will be posted on the “We are really excited to have launched the AHL website approximately TAKE FLIGHT education resource section of the 3 months before the date Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire website at the of the event; proceeds from each event will start of the 2011 autumn term,” commented go towards an event Dave Harrigan AHL’s Outreach and Learning Officer, he continued. “A lot of hard work, related service charity. in-depth research and planning has gone into the project and we are convinced that TAKE FLIGHT will open up Lincolnshire’s aviation heritage to young people across both the county and around Great Britain.”He concluded, “There are many different sections for teachers and young people to explore and we hope that everyone will take the opportunity to look through the site and see how inspirational aviation can be as an education topic!” Sue Fitzsimmons, Head of Access & Learning Development at the Royal Air Force Museum also made the following observation, “Take Flight is an extremely comprehensive package of resources showing the wide variety of learning opportunities available in Lincolnshire’s Aviation Museums.”

22 InsightMAGAZINE John Gillespie Magee The Pilot Poet Photographer and Author: Howard Heeley

The events of Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December, 2011 organised by Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire commemorated the 70th anniversary of the mid-air collision over Lincolnshire, in which Pilot Officer John Gillespie Magee lost his life.

ilot Officer John Gillespie Magee was killed in a collision with an aircraft from RAF Cranwell on 11th December 1941 while Magee was serving with 412 Squadron Royal Canadian PAir Force (RCAF) at RAF Digby and whilst he was dispersed to RAF Wellingore. He was just For further details please contact: nineteen years old and was buried with full military honours at Scopwick Cemetery near Dave Harrigan MBE Digby aerodrome. Outreach and Learning Officer At the request of the Reverend Canon Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire Hugh Magee, the brother of John, the Tel: 01529 308135 weekend’s events commenced with a short Mobile: 07584 216890 service and a private act of remembrance at Email: [email protected] Scopwick Cemetery on Saturday morning led Website: www.aviationheritagelincolnshire.com by Reverend A T Coates RAF, Chaplain at RAF During the service John Magee’s poem Digby. Accompanied by family and friends and “High Flight” was read by Alistair Blundy around twenty local villagers, Hugh Magee laid from Rugby School and Flight Lieutenant a wreath on his brother’s grave. The Last Post Ed Jackson from the RAF College was sounded in memory of Pilot Officer John Cranwell. A second John Magee poem Gillespie Magee and an honour guard of US Air “Per Ardua” was read by Flight Lieutenant Force, US Navy and Canadian Army personnel Emma Gallagher from the RAF College flanked the war graves in the cemetery. Cranwell, after which Hugh Magee laid a On Saturday afternoon Roger Cole gave wreath in honour of his brother. an informative and thought provoking talk After the service Hugh Magee re-laid the about the inspirational pilot to more than wreath in the Airmen’s Chapel in the North seventy five people in the conference room Transept of the Cathedral. The guests of the Lincoln Hotel. Some extracts from attended a post service function in the Magee’s poems were read by Hugh Magee Bishop’s Palace opposite the Cathedral. and Phil Bonner, with proceeds from the talk John Gillespie Magee was one of many being donated to the RAF Benevolent Fund. Americans who broke his country’s law on In the evening AHL also hosted a dinner for neutrality and crossed the border in 1940 invited guests at the Lincoln Hotel. into Canada and volunteered for the Royal The Sunday morning service of Choral Canadian Air Force. The events of this Mattins at Lincoln’s Cathedral included a weekend highlighted Lincolnshire’s North commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of American aviation connections and they the death of John Gillespie Magee. Invited paid an emotional tribute to the ‘The Pilot guests included the Lord Lieutenant of Poet’ who wrote ‘High Flight’. Aviation Lincolnshire, the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Heritage Lincolnshire is funded by an The Right Worshipful the Mayor of Lincoln, award of £436,000 from the Heritage Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach KCB CBE Lottery Fund. FRAeS, representatives of the Royal Air Force, the Royal Canadian Air Force and Canon For further details please contact: Hugh Magee, his wife and family friends. Dave Harrigan MBE

InsightMAGAZINE 23 former squadron); the Royal British Legion; High Sheriff of Lincolnshire Robin BRANSTON Battle; Lord Lieutenant Tony Worth; “I am absolutely thrilled that WAR HERO North Kesteven District Council Leader my uncle’s name will live on Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE; and NKDC through these fantastic houses COMMEMORATED Chairman Cllr Ian Cartwright MBE. – the fact that North Kesteven BY NORTH KESTEVEN But the hero of the day was Bill District Council has named the By Pip Batty, North Kesteven District Council Shaw of Stratford-upon-Avon - nephew street after him is a wonderful of Flying Officer Cooper - who had way to honour his name.” North Kesteven District Council has travelled with his wife Kay especially to visit the site of Cooper Close and officially named a new road after a officially open the new Council homes. Bill Cooper former local resident and WW2 pilot, Bill was reunited with Branston Flying Officer William George Cooper. Village postmistress Joyce Northey at that North Kesteven District Council the ceremony, who at the age of just 16 has named the street after him is a n 22 November 2011 the had delivered the telegram to Flying wonderful way to honour his name.” site of four new Council Officer Cooper’s wife Esther with Councillor Stewart Ogden, Executive homes, Cooper Close in the sad news of his death in 1943. Board Member for Housing, said that Branston, was officially Bill was utterly thrilled that the name the council’s reinvigorated focus on named in honour of local hero and of his uncle would live on long into the building new affordable homes, made OWWII pilot, Flying Officer William future, and thought the houses were possible and brought forward through its (Bill) Cooper, who resided in the village ‘fantastic’. Although Bill never met his successful bid to the Homes & Community at the time of his tragic death. uncle, he gave the crowd an extremely Agency was of great benefit to District Flying Officer Cooper died saving moving speech about the life of his residents at a time when there are over his crew from their Stirling aircraft uncle, which he had been told as a child 1,000 people on the housing register. in 1943, returning from Germany. by his parents. Researching his uncle’s “These new homes will make a Representatives from RAF life and the circumstances leading up substantial difference for people in Waddington, Conningsby and to his tragic death in 1943 has become need and contribute towards us meeting Cranwell attended the official street- Bill’s life work since his retirement. our affordable housing targets. We naming and handover ceremony. Bill said: “I am absolutely thrilled greatly look forward to being able Also in attendance were members of that my uncle’s name will live on to offer them for rent to tenants in the 214 Squadron Association (Cooper’s through these fantastic houses – the fact need as soon as possible,” he said. PHOTO Flying Officer Cooper’s nephew Bill Shaw is the gentleman in front of the sign.

24 InsightMAGAZINE SKEGNESS ACADEMY he day started with a visit in front of the historic ‘BLACK BUCK’ to the small arms training Vulcan. The students and their staff YEAR 9 VISIT range (which is a simulated had a thoroughly enjoyable day that has range using compressed air to stimulated many thoughts regarding NOVEMBER 2011 action the rifles) which proved to be an how the military work. The day was Texcellent ice-breaker and really brought a fantastic success and would not Personnel from various Squadrons and the students out of their shells. This have been possible if it wasn’t for the Sections from around RAF Waddington was followed up with the reality check following people: of the RAF fitness test, which many provided an outstanding visit for the students found extremely demanding. • Flight Lieutenant Paul Ratnage Year 9 students (aged 14/15) and 3 staff Following a packed lunch in the Junior (Officer Commanding Force from Skegness Academy to broaden Ranks’ Mess the students were involved Protection) their perception of the military and the in an ethics debate with the Senior • Flight and Staff Sergeant Mark militaries day-to day activities. Padre, which proved to be highly Rooney (Senior Non-Commissioned thought provoking and explained the Officer Physical Education Flight) difficult decisions that are frequently • Reverend (Wing Commander) undertaken by Service personnel. The Andy McMullon Padre second lecture they received in the • Flight Lieutenant Dave McRitchie Heritage Centre, was an Air Power • Flight Sergeant Creek (8 Squadron) lecture which was cleverly given in the • Sergeant ‘Bully’ Bull (8 Squadron) form of practical exercises and student • Sergeant Dave Simpson participation, an excellent way of • Sergeant Ian Howard imparting knowledge to teenage youths! • Corporal Will Walker Finally, the students conducted a • Senior Aircraftman Bentley-Crane walkthrough of a Sentry aircraft of 8 • Senior Aircraftman Perry Squadron, followed by a photograph • Senior Aircraftman Marshall

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InsightMAGAZINE 25 WIN A RIDE IN A CELEBRITY CAR! ver fancied taking a ride in a real is fundraising for a £50,000 operation Batmobile? Or perhaps getting to help him walk,” added Emma. E behind the wheel of the Hoff’s Knight Rider supercar KITT? “Raffle tickets will be sold to win a ride in each Herbie, KITT and the Well now’s your chance! Batmobile so we’re really hoping for a These silver screen heroes, along great turnout!” with fun loving Herbie, will be the special guests opening the new AW Accident Repair Centres was headquarters of AW Repair Group in founded in Sleaford 15 years ago Sleaford in April. as a vehicle crash repair centre for insurance companies. It has Organiser since developed into AW Repair Emma Walsh Group with branches also in said: “We Newark (Nottinghamshire) and near wanted Rotherham (South Yorkshire) offering Bespoke accident management services someone, or a whole host of car care services and are also offered to local companies with something, a boasting manufacturer approvals vehicle fleets of 5 to 50 vehicles. bit different including Volkswagen, to mark Audi, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Honda “We’re much more than just a the official and Peugeot. bodyshop,” added Lincolnshire branch relocation to manager Steve Hoe. “We’re always our fantastic The company is also close to sealing happy to give free help and advice so new facility. agreements with another prestigious just give us a call.” And brand known for sports cars. being a crash repair and car care *AW Accident Repair Centres centre we thought it fitting to have Other services include fixed price (Lincolnshire) now at: Commercial some four-wheeled celebrities to do vehicle servicing; tyre sales, balancing Way, Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, the honours!” and alignment; while you wait repairs Sleaford, NG34 8GL. for minor to moderate dings, dents Tel: 0844 8486670. The family event will include bouncy and scuffs; vehicle diagnostics; glass Email: [email protected]; castle, face painting, prestige and upholstery repairs; free on-line Web: www.awrepairgroup.co.uk; manufacturer displays, tours of QuickQuote repair cost calculator; Twitter #AWCrashRepair; the facility and vehicle colouration non fault accident assistance and post Facebook @AWCrashRepair demonstrations as well as the chance accident legal advice. to win a ride in the guest star cars. *The three day open event includes an “To celebrate our relocation we’re exclusive day for Military families on “The open event is free to enter also offering 10% off servicing to all Thursday 5th April and continues for the but we will be raising money for the our Facebook fans @AWCrashRepair,” general public on Good Friday 6th April NSPCC and local lad Joel James who added Emma and Easter Saturday 7th April. Movember Senior Aircraftman Ben Stevenson The Station Warrant Officer at RAF Waddington sanctioned C4I Sqn to grow as many Mo’s as they could. Anyone that needed to shave put in a top effort, from the Squadron Leader to the most Junior Senior Aircraftmen. It was a bit of fun, but they have raised money for a fantastic cause.

4I have put a little twist on continuing to spark conversation and spread the Movember event and awareness of men’s health each year. are not only raising money Funds raised by the Movember towards The Prostate Cancer community are enabling The Prostate Charity but also for Help 4 Heroes, Cancer Charity to carry out a number of Ccleverly named “Mo 4 your Bro”. key programmes, that are making a real Movember began in 2003 over a few difference to the lives of men and their beers in Melbourne, Australia. The guys families affected by prostate cancer. This is behind it joked about 80s fashion and significant, when you consider one man in decided it was time to bring back the this country dies of prostate cancer EVERY moustache. In order to justify their “Mo” HOUR, of every day, more than 10,000 every (Aussie slang for moustache), they used year. All cancer diagnoses are life-changing. their new looks to raise some awareness Prostate cancer is complicated as men do not and money for prostate cancer research… always display symptoms and can be faced never dreaming their efforts would lead with a complex range of treatment options. to a global movement for men’s health. This means that clear information is critical. To date, more than 627,000 Movember Why all the moustaches? It’s time “Mos” have been grown to raise over $100 men and women understand the facts: million to change the face of men’s health. • 1 in 2 men will be diagnosed with Since its humble beginnings in cancer in their lifetime. 1 in 3 Melbourne Australia, Movember has grown women will be diagnosed to become a truly global movement inspiring • 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with more than 1.1 Million Mo Bros and Mo Sistas prostate cancer in their lifetime. to participate, with formal campaigns in One new case occurs every 2.7 Australia, New Zealand, the US, Canada, the minutes and a man dies from UK, Finland, the Netherlands, Spain, South prostate cancer every 19 minutes. Africa and Ireland. In addition, Movember is • Rates of prostate cancer in aware of Mo Bros and Mo Sistas supporting men are comparable to rates of the campaign and men’s health cause right breast cancer in women. across the globe, from Russia to Dubai, • The World Health Organization projects Hong Kong to Antarctica, Rio de Janeiro that in 2010, cancer will become to Mumbai, and everywhere in between. the leading cause of death globally, No matter the country or city, surpassing heart disease and stroke. Movember will continue to work to change • In 2010, over 112,000 UK Mo established habits and attitudes men Bros and Mo Sistas got on board, have about their health, to educate men raising £11.7 million. about the health risks they face, getting them to act on that knowledge thereby Movember is the world’s largest charity increasing the chances of early detection, event raising funds for cancer affecting diagnosis and effective treatment. men, specifically prostate cancer. Each Big steps have been taken towards November, Movember invites men across changing attitudes and habits relating the globe to grow moustaches (or “Mos”) to men’s health around the world but while raising funds and awareness for men’s there is still much to be done to catch health. Movember aims to forever change up with the women’s health movement. the face of men’s health, by raising awareness Via the moustache, Movember aims to and funds that will reduce the number of fulfill its vision of having an everlasting preventable male deaths by cancer. Next impact on the face of men’s health, by year will be even bigger and better.

InsightMAGAZINE 27 Out of the Shadows

Unsurprisingly, with The newest and most all that’s going on in anticipated section of Insight Stress service life these days, Magazine is finally here! there’s much talk about Don’t get stress in our busy and t’s true, no more hush hush, no more complicated lives – ssshhhh. Leading from the front, and worked both occupational, thanking his lucky stars he’s now got 2 pilots to tell where to go Wg Cdr Rich Moir everyday stress and up over it! has taken the helm of the good ship 14 Sqn. the stress of going on IWith the Stand Up parade of 14th October By Padre Andy McMullon deployed operations. fresh in the mind the Sqn has taken no time out of its busy schedule of continued Ops (8 ’m presently in the middle of a ‘pre- of troops. It is still the helicopter of choice Sqn note, continued Ops) with personnel still deployment’ cycle and all the preps and on the battlefield when it comes to fetching busy back and forth from foreign lands. courses that have to be completed before and carrying! Nevertheless, even the mighty For those back taking a quick breather I leave Waddington for Afghanistan is Chinook can be overstressed by overloading it in the UK it’s been a busy time too. causing just a few complications in my life. with too many troops or overweight loads – just With charity events, IGood as all this preparation undoubtedly is like human beings can be overstressed by too new aircraft, aircrew the courses make it harder for me to do what much work or tasks beyond their capacity. A milestones and a plethora I think is important, getting some quality Chinook which is damaged by enemy fire or of births and marriages time with my family before I have to endure IED impact may well keep flying but, like a there’s hardly been time months apart from them. I could get rather human being trying to work when injured or stressed about it all! ill, its performance will drop off considerably. Yet another word for STRESS is simply So the right kind of stress is good for CHALLENGE and it’s a word which always machines and people – but too much can helps me change my perspective and deal with be damaging and cause our performance what is going on in my life much better. to drop off. Stress itself is not necessarily Challenge is something we all need in a bad thing – but making sure it is the life – it gets us out of bed in the morning and right sort of challenging rather than motivates us in all sorts of situations at work, overwhelming stress is important all round. at home and at play. Challenge is one sort As ever it’s all about balance - finding the of stress that is actually good for us – and motivation in our lives to crack on and do it’s worth remembering that the only time a good job, as well as recognising that we human beings are completely unstressed is all need times to chill out and recharge! when they are dead! When Jesus went to visit his friends in Being a great fan of the RAF Chinook I’ve Bethany (Luke 10:37-42), Martha complained always been very interested to see the blades that she was stressed out and busy with all the being transported safely in a box, loaded onto hospitality whilst her sister Mary simply sat a C17 and transported out to Afghanistan. doing nothing at Jesus’ feet. There are times Of course in that box the blades are protected when we all need, like Martha, to be busy from all stress – but the blades themselves serving, but other times when, like Mary her are doing no useful work either. It’s only as sister, we need to be still just loving and being the blades are fixed onto the rotorhead and loved. The Bible talks about human beings the twin 3000 SHP engines fired up that the being made in God’s image to love and serve blades start to get stressed (or challenged!) others yet at the same time calls us to ‘be still’ and do any useful work at all! and know that we are loved by God. Getting And of course the Chinook is a great that balance is the key to living challenging workhorse and can lift enormous under- lives which don’t stress us out! slung loads as well as carrying large numbers Chaplaincy Duty Mobile: 07775 566965

28 InsightMAGAZINE Now Available to squeeze a pre deployment medical in! 14 Sqn have been ringing for Alison Riley, As you’ll have no doubt noticed from his who will now be answering the phone as Cpl beaming grin on the photo opposite, Master Conner. Congratulations to all. The final Aircrew (MACr) Briggs was joined by the new arrival on the Squadron, fresh from the rest of the Sqn on the ‘Shadow Dispersal’ factory on 12th December is ZZ504, seen ONLINE (formerly Sentinel Dispersal) to celebrate looking resplendent with its delivery crew on INSIGHT accumulating 1000 hours on the Shadow this page. A testament to the hard work of aircraft on 1st Dec 11. Briggsy was quoted at all those involved that the Squadron is at full the time as saying ‘it’s the happiest moment aircraft strength. All of the arcticles from this issue of my career, I’m very proud to be serving The final 14 Sqn social event of the on Waddington’s premier Squadron, here’s year took place at The Lawn in Lincoln in and previous issues of Insight can to the next 1000 hours’. Briggsy is the first early December, playing host to our annual now be read online. Find us at: member of 14 Sqn to reach the 1000 hour Christmas Party. A good night was had by all, www.theinsightonline.co.uk milestone but others are hot on his heels, particularly a group of local health workers we expect Flt Lt Fairbrother to join this who were treated to a festive treat of Staff exclusive club soon! Sergeant JW’s bare chest being displayed on The first 14 Sqn charity event has also the dance floor…proof the Army just can’t been completed in aid of Myeloma Cancer, a drink with the RAF. Another charity success cause close to the Sqn’s heart. We managed was raising £100 for Myeloma in the evening to swim, run and cycle a total of 1400 miles whilst Chief Tech Jase Garnett scooped £200 by the time the new standard was handed to help with his Christmas shopping. over…with time spare to get changed ready Our first Insight article is also a great for the parade. Personnel both at home and opportunity for us to publicly add our deployed took part and have thus far raised congratulations to Flt Lt Paul ‘Snorts’ over £700. The Sqn has plans afoot for more Norton in recognition of his well deserved charity events in the New Year so keep your Air Officer Commanding’s commendation eyes peeled to help support our next event! which he received in early December. Snorts A new year and a time to welcome new has been one of the founding members of the arrivals. Bobby and his partner Janet are Shadow project with his dedication and hard now being kept busy with new baby boy work being acknowledged we’re very proud to Harrison, whilst Richie and Sarah have say he’s one of our own. just enjoyed their first Christmas with 14 Squadron is looking forward to another new arrival Max. Not wanting to be successful and busy 2012 with more new outdone, on the engineering side Steve personnel arrivals, an eye on the next CO’s cup and Tibby are now joined by Freddie, event and lots more charity events to come. and Lewis enters fatherhood with new Finally, our very best wishes for a happy baby girl Imogen. Wedding bells on 2012 to all at Waddington.

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InsightMAGAZINE 29 SUN & SAND, NOT A NEW THING! “Row the By Flight Lieutenant Jimmy Sockell After spending nearly 8 months in 2011 in the Mediterranean Witham” enforcing a No Fly Zone over Libya, North Africa you would Challenge imagine that 8 Squadron had had enough of sun and sand, but 30th November 2011 if you look at a potted history of the Squadron you will see that its association with the desert has a long and chequered past. n 30th November 2011, personnel from RAF Let’s start with World War I… Waddington took part in the TRENCHARD’S REVENGE ‘Row the Witham Challenge’ to raise money for Help for Heroes. Allegedly, Lord Trenchard, the “Father OThe River Witham is a distance of of the Royal Air Force” was guest of 132km in length and stretches from the honour at an 8 Squadron “Dining in south of Grantham, through Lincoln and Night” at the end of the Great War. onwards to Boston. So with a grand total He used the occasion to expound his of 132,000m distance to be covered using theory that the days of the fighter 2 rowing machines, and 6 teams signed up and ground attack aircraft were ended to complete it, the aim was to achieve the and, if he had his way, the only future fastest time for 22,000 metres covered by was with the strategic bomber. “The each section. Bomber Will Always Get Through!” Air Traffice Control (ATC) started off the 8 Squadron had suffered serious day with the first portion, setting a bench losses from a reconnaissance/ground time of 44 minutes 55 seconds using the attack unit during the war and THE MOVE TO ADEN (1926-1971) maximum allowed 5 man team. This time took great exception to this line of was soon beaten by 5 Squadron with a time argument and a great deal of drunken After its success in Iraq the next desert flair of 43 minutes and 51 seconds, although one heckling of this very distinguished up was in Aden, Yemen (hopefully not this member of the team did pay the price for this senior officer took place. The result year!) Astonishingly the Squadron remained with his breakfast in the toilet! A short notice of this unfortunate incident was that in Aden up until the outbreak of WWII in effort from 14 Squadron saw the previous 8 Squadron was swiftly posted to the 1939 and finally until 1945, during this time smashed down to 42 minutes 29 Middle East, with the instruction that time they flew a mixture of DH9s, Vickers seconds, but soon after stolen by 8 Squadron, it would never again serve at home. Vincents, Fairey IIIFs, Tiger Moths eventually beating 14 Squadron by less than 1 second The outcome of Trenchard’s revenge ending up with the Blenheim I in 1939 and with a time of 42 minutes 28! The fire section was that 8 Squadron did not serve finally with the Wellington XIII’s in 1943. PHOTO were up nexxt, and with everyone having within the United Kingdom until 1972, 1940-41 saw 8 Squadron in action in Ethiopia, above them down as the favourites for the day, they and even then the location was Kinloss flying from Aden attacking the Italian Vickers Vincent did not disappoint. A very tense 42 minutes (shortly followed by Lossiemouth) advance into East Africa. After the Italians above, inset 24 seconds saw them take the lead with only in the far north of Scotland. It was were pushed out of Ethiopia the squadron Wellington XIII VAHS left to compete. Although VAHS were not until 1991 when 8 Squadron was ended its time in Aden with Maritime patrols Top, Right then unable to beat this time, with a 3 man finally forgiven and returned home of the Indian Ocean until the end of WWII. 8 Sqn pilots and team they still achieved a time of 48 minutes to England and RAF Waddington, But this was not the end for 8 Squadron airmen in front 08 seconds. where it received the Sentry AEW. in the Horn of Africa, after a brief spell of one of the As well as the huge effort made by the unit’s Hunters at sections around Station, Flt Lt Rowell from Khormaksar pan in MT took it upon himself to cover as much THE FIRST SANDY June 1962 of the 132,000 metres by himself over two ENCOUNTER IRAQ (1920) Right, middle days. Stepping away from the rower on the 8 Squadron’s Home afternoon of the second day he had managed You may have thought that the Patch 1920 -1971 to cover a grand total of 100,000 metres, an Squadron’s first encounter with Right impressive achievement to say the least! the desert was for OP ORACLE/ Trying to Stay Cool- Lastly I would like to say thank you to the VERITAS in 2001 to support Venom of No 8 PEd Flight for the loan of the machines, to the Iraq operation, but in fact Sqn at Khormaksar ATC for the use of the flat bed, and everyone it first deployed in 1920 firstly (Aden), 1957 around station that either took part or made to Basra then to Kirkuk, flying left a donation helping to raise the grand total of the De Havilland DH9A and Three 8 Sqn dH9As £359.87p for Help for Heroes. remaining in Iraq for 6 years. Over Iraq – 1924

30 InsightMAGAZINE 70th ANNIVERSARY By Squadron Leader Rob Gray in India after which the Squadron was FGA.9 aircraft in January/ February, 1960. Tuesday 20th December 2011 marked disbanded in November of 1945, it Its Hunters were operated in the the 70th Wedding Anniversary of reformed again back in Aden on 1st policing role until April, 1961, when Squadron Leader (Retired) Vernon and September 1946 with eight Mosquito VI’s. a fighter reconnaissance capability was added to the unit’s task using Mrs Molly Smith. Vernon was a Station Hunter FR.10 aircraft. It continued in Navigation Officer at RAF Waddington this dual role until May, 1963, when during the Second World War. No. 1417 Fighter Reconnaissance Flight was reformed and the FR.10s o mark this most auspicious were transferred to the new flight. of occasions, I made a surprise The status quo remained in force until presentation of a bouquet of 9 September, 1967, when the FR.10s were flowers and a handwritten reallocated to the squadron inventory, letter of congratulations from the Station concurrent with the disbandment TCommander to the couple. Suffice to say of 1417 Flt. The squadron itself had Vernon and Molly, who recently moved departed Khormaksar for the last time into the Fosse House Nursing Home in on 8 August and headed for a temporary Lincoln, were overjoyed at having their home at Masirah prior to moving on special day marked in such a manner and to its new home base at Muharraq, were most keen to discuss life at RAF Between 1947 and 1954, still in following the final withdrawal from Waddington during the war years. Aden, the Squadron progressed through Khormaksar. There it remained until Vernon, now 92, recounted his wartime aircraft types from the Hawker Tempest December 1971 when it too was disbanded experiences which began when he joined MKVI (1947) to the jet age in 1952 with and its Hunters flown back to the UK. the RAF under the Direct Entrant Scheme the first Vampire FB9s, which were then A fitting tribute that this legendary in 1939. Upon completion of the course replaced in 1954 by the Venom MK1s squadron should be the last to leave the he was posted to 144 Sqn where he was Command, having been the first and only a navigator on the Hampden bomber. squadron in Aden for a very long time. Vernon then passed the ‘Specialist The unit number, however, was swiftly Navigation Course’ in Canada prior to resurrected when it reformed as an AEW becoming an instructor on the Hampden. Shackleton squadron in January 1972. A short posting to Washington ensued during which time he was awarded the RETURN TO 8 Squadron’S Distinguished Flying Cross. He met HOME PATCH 2001 his future wife, Molly, in the Assembly Rooms in Lincoln and they were married So after leaving the desert of Yemen back in 1941. After commissioning, Vernon in 1971, 30 years later the squadron was posted to RAF Waddington as the returned to take part in desert operations Station Navigation Officer and he recalled Having re-equipped with the Venom, in October 2001. Following the tragic many fascinating memories of his time the Squadron was temporarily based in events of 9/11 they flew in support on the Station. At the end of the war, Cyprus during the 1956 Suez Operations, of Op ORACLE/VERITAS for nearly 2 Vernon left the RAF to pursue a career in in which its role was one of ground attack. years before switching operations to sales though he retained strong links to No sooner had it returned to Aden, and cover OP TELIC in Iraq in March 2003. the Lincolnshire area and a very strong then 8 Squadron’s aircraft were back in So, the events of 2011 were not affinity to the RAF. their original role of the defence and something new to the squadron, in fact From a personal perspective, it was an policing of the Protectorate, carrying out over the last century 8 Squadron has absolute honour for me to help mark their assigned tasks in the interest of law, order spent nearly 60 years of that flying in special day, to say thank you on behalf of and well-being throughout the area. The support of desert operations of one kind the Station and to chat to such a charming Squadron changed from Venoms to Hunter or another primarily in the Middle East. and vivacious couple.

InsightMAGAZINE 31 The new contemporary eatery that everyone’s talking about

Come and dine with us at Fernies We also have special themed nights Bistro with intimate mood lighting and - these nights are great fun so book background music creating a relaxed early for a night to remember. dinning atmosphere with the theatre of the kitchen on view, where you can watch our Chefs creating our fabulous Please book now for dishes for you to enjoy and savour. Mothers Day Fridays and Saturdays are our Steak nights, where you can enjoy some of 5 Course the finest steaks in Lincoln, cooked the way you like it, we have locally sourced Valentines Menu Sirloin, Double sirloin, Ribeye and Fillet £25 each steak it’s something different and we hope you like it. available Sat 11th & Tues 14th Feb Enjoy a romantic, candle lit dinner The bistro is a vibrant place for all with exciting modern English food, if it’s a romantic meal for two or a family Please see our Website meal or a celebration with friends for February Special then please visit our bistro for great food and attentive service. Offers in the Bistro. Tel: 01522 691 939 • Email: [email protected] Web: www.fernies.co.uk Unit 28, Jasmin Road, Lincoln LN6 0QB

32 InsightMAGAZINE snippets of air cadets activities in 2 011

On 20th August 2011, myself, and 3 others in the Bond film Casino Royale. Those of us got it back it had teeth marks over it, whoops! from the Squadron travelled down to RAF that want a career in the RAF Police also got At the end of the week the camp staff put

Halton along with 37 other Cadets from the chance to visit the Police and Dog section on an end of camp party, everyone enjoyed

different Squadrons for fun filled week with one afternoon, this was a great experience as it, especially Cadet Corporal Daniel Taylor - Trent Wing on an annual camp. Throughout we got to find out what to expect when we join his dancing skills are excellent! Paper plate

mp the week we had the chance to meet other and whether the trade is for us or not. When awards were handed out to all the cadets Cadets from Squadrons around the Wing. we visited the dog section they showed us and the Flight Lieutenant, ‘s even did the Whilst there we completed our weapons the six dogs that were there and furthermore staff some, which they all found hilarious. handling tests and got to do a spot of let us try the training suit on - we had to run The next morning we had to go home - it’s shooting as well, as most of us attempting, around in it and lay on the floor and try to fair to say none of us wanted to leave as we’d and succeeding at, our swimming proficiency get back up the quickest, everyone found had such a great time and made some great tests. We also visited the helicopter base, RAF this difficult. The dog handlers showed us friends. Before we left in the morning awards Benson in the middle of the week, where we how the dogs are trained to find items in a from the staff were handed out, my flight could have had the chance to fly in a Merlin field, allowing us to place items in an open won the inter-flight competition and I also

mm er Ca helicopter if our Camp Commandant had rung stretch of grass; me being the clever one, left won the “Best Cadet Award”. If this camp

u the base the day before to confirm we were my mobile phone in the middle of the field reappears in the future I would definitely coming. On base we got to see how recruits as the handler said it would be fine and that recommend it to Cadets as you will have S lived and worked for the first 9-11 weeks of the dog wouldn’t pick the items up but would such a great time and I didn’t hear one Cadet their career in the Royal Air Force and we just sit next to them to say that he’d found complain about it the whole week. even got a guided tour around the Stately something. But no. The dog decided he was

RAF By Cadet Sergeant Robyn Stanney Home of the Officers Mess which has featured going to pick the mobile phone up, so when I

During October half term, I went to RAF for the drill competition at the end of the High Wycombe for a week. At 9.00am on week. During the evening we spent our time Saturday morning, I boarded the coach with bowling, which was enjoyed by all the Cadets,

some Cadets from different Squadrons in and the winners of bowling were awarded Lincolnshire. After picking more Cadets up points to go towards the flight competition. from Mansfield and Chesterfield we were set On Tuesday we went to RAF Halton, to a On Thursday we spent our day at for our long journey to RAF High Wycombe. museum. After we had looked around the Bletchley Park, where we learnt about When we arrived, we were called into the museum, we were taken to some trenches enigma machines. On Friday we did lots sitting room, and were split into two flights. that had been reconstructed to show the of drill practise ready for the competition. The flights were in competition for points public what it was like for soldiers fighting in We performed the drill sequence in front throughout the week and the flight with the the war. We then went to Wendover Woods of the Station Warrant Officer (SWO). mp n Ca most points won. After being split into the where we took part in some orienteering. We then had a final parade and we had

m flights, we were sent to our rooms where we During the evening we had a quiz night, the important results of the inter-flight unpacked our suitcases. We then marched to which we all really enjoyed. competitions. Unfortunately, my flight the junior ranks mess, and had dinner. Then On Wednesday we spent the day at didn’t win, but we didn’t let it bring us down we had free time to get to make friends with RAF Brize Norton, which I thought was as we had all had an excellent week! During utu people in our flights. the best day. We were woken at 5.45am for our final evening, we had pizzas delivered. During the week, we participated in many breakfast. It took 2 hours on the minibus We also had a disco. During the disco, we activities. We spent the first day at the RAF to get to the camp, which the majority of were presented with paper plate awards, Hendon museum. We also went swimming at cadets spent catching up on sleep. When which are awarded on every blues camp and be A RAF Halton, where we completed our basic we arrived, we got to look around 99 chosen by the Non-Commissioned Officer

m or intermediate swimming proficiencies and Squadron’s C17 aircraft before visiting ’s. My paper plate award was ‘fire starter’ as then played water polo. During the evening, 216 Squadron who showed us around I had set the fire alarm off whilst ironing! o we watched Battle of Britain, ready for the their Tristars. After eating our lunch in On the last day, we boarded the coach

c trip to Uxbridge on Monday, where we went the terminal at Brize, we were taken to back home. As people started to depart the to an underground bunker that was used another department and were shown all coach, everyone was very emotional as we had during the Second World War. After the visit the safety features they have on aircraft created a strong friendship during the week to Uxbridge, we visited some war memorials, such as life jackets. We were shown how we had spent together. When we arrived back and laid a wreath at Runnymede as a sign they test them to make sure they are all at Lincoln, we said our last goodbyes and went of respect to 20,000 people who had fallen safe for the aircrew to use. After this, we our separate ways. I really enjoyed the camp, during the war and didn’t have their own visited air traffic control. After a fun- and would recommend it to any cadet. You get igh Wy graves. We came back to High Wycombe and packed day, we boarded the minibus for the to meet so many new people and you have so

H By Cadet Emma Charge did some drill practice in our flights, ready long trip back to High Wycombe. much fun.

InsightMAGAZINE 33 RAF Waddington Which actress won an 1 OSCAR for playing the role of an OSCAR winner (and Police Flight who was she playing?) 2 What is the largest Charitable castle in Wales? 3 Who played the wife of Phil Donations Collins’ character in Buster? By Flight Lieutenant Karl Booth Name the 3 states of the 4 USA which have just 5 The RAF Police at RAF Waddington recently made a number of letters in their name. charitable donations to various charities both local and national. 5 Name the song with the he funds were donated from note this is, Corporal Mick McConnell, opening line “picture your a historic RAF Police Club you may have read his story in Insight’s self in a boat on a river” members’ account which had issue 6 of 2011) while at Hedley Court. laid forgotten within the Corporal McConnell was caught in 6 Nicholas Sarkosy is the Station’s accounts for some years. Officer an IED blast in Afghanistan and was Prince of which country? TCommanding Police, acting as Chair held seriously injured as a result, needing an adhoc AGM to release the funds and extensive rehabilitation. The second 7 Who was the 3rd man gauge members’ opinions as to what to do charity, without question, was Help 4 on the moon? with the money, approximately £1200. Heroes for obvious reasons. The third Discussion immediately turned to charity charity was closer to home being the 8 What does HB stand donations. After much deliberation it was Station’s Charity fund in recognition of for on a pencil? unanimously agreed to split the funds the unit support given to Police Flight. between four charities, each taking an Last but by no means least, it was 9 Which country is Europe’s equal share. The first being the RAF Police agreed the final charity be the Royal largest exporter of Bananas? Welfare fund, who provided trade branded British Legion. Soon after the meeting, gym wear for a Waddington based RAF the Chairman of the RAF Police fund 10 Which football team has held Police Non Commissioned Officer (Editor’s was hosted and a cheque handed over. the FA Cup for the longest continuous period?

INSIGHT MAGAZINE • ISS Update • Visit to 56 (R) Sqn by Sgt WS Appleton’s Family • Motorcycle Trials Riding Success at RAF Waddington • Aviation Events in 2012

OUT APRIL 2012

Submission deadline: 5 march

it just before WWII and held it for 7 years) 7 for it held and WWII before just it

and they sell it on) 10. Portsmouth (they won won (they Portsmouth 10. on) it sell they and

buy the entire banana production off Belize Belize off production banana entire the buy

ard Black 9. Ireland (they (they Ireland 9. Black ard H 8. Conrad Peter

of France is also the Co-Prince of Andorra) 7. 7. Andorra) of Co-Prince the also is France of

Sky with Diamonds 6. Andorra (the President President (the Andorra 6. Diamonds with Sky

Idaho 4. Texas, Maine, Idaho 5. Lucy in the the in Lucy 5. Idaho Maine, Texas, 4. Idaho

Caerphilly 3. Judy Walters Texas, Maine, Maine, Texas, Walters Judy 3. Caerphilly

epburn) 2. 2. epburn) H atharine K ( Blanchett Cate 1.

nswers nswers A Quiz

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