THE RAF CONINGSBY JOURNAL onetoone ISSUE 4 2013

A LOOK BACK ON CONINGSBY’S AUTUMN INTERNATIONALS 2 ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 3 4 CONTENTS ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 5

xFEATURES Ex SAUDI BRITISH GREEN FLAG 06 Coningsby’s Expeditionary Air Wing 08 Stn Cdr’s Foreword SQUADRON NEWS Group Captain Johnny Stringer 3(F) Sqn 12 XI Sqn 14 29(R) Sqn 16

BASE SUPPORT WING Wing Overview 18 What’s on at the HIVE 20 Padres Piece 21 Helpful House Hints 21 ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING Winter Driving 24 Photographer of the Year 26 OPERATIONS WING A view from the waterfront 28 PEOPLE & ACHIEVEMENTS 60 Second interview 30 Bomber Command Clasp 30 Military Wives Choir 30 Bonfire Night 33 CHARITY “A REPRISE OF THE YEAR? Ex Reds Coast to Coast cycle ride 34 HOW BORING.” AFTER ALMOST FORCE DEVELOPMENT 18 YEARS OF MARRIAGE, Remembering in Luxembourg 36 MRS STRINGER KNOWS HER SPORT HUSBAND FAR TOO WELL, AND 2013 Sporting Roundup 38 HAS MOVED WELL BEYOND Editorial & Distribution Team Editor’s Foreword • Sqn Ldr Thom Colledge ISSUE 4 2013 THE PLACE FOR POLITE IF continue to be amazed at the last year on Christmas Day a thought for the Coningsby FALSE ENCOURAGEMENT. EDITING THE output of the station. In the their father loaded the folk who are working hard CHRISTMAS I short 3 month period since pessimist’s room with every to keep you safe. And finally, owever, I hope both more convinced than ever EDITION OF I last penned this column we toy and game imaginable. please don’t wish too hard for a she and you will allow that we must challenge those have hosted a major combined The optimist’s room he filled white Christmas; clearing snow Hat least some reflection things that hold us back, onetoone ONETOONE IS air exercise with the Royal with horse manure. Later off 9000 feet of runway isn’t on a year that had a bit of and own and be responsible A FUNNY ONE. Saudi Air Force, built and run that night the father passed anyone’s idea of a merry one. everything, including a visibly for those things that we a deployed international joint by the pessimist’s room and moved Chris Evans. Overseas can. I intend to make this ALTHOUGH BY force headquarters, deployed found him sitting amid his Thom Colledge deployments to the Middle a cornerstone of how we Editor Publishers NOW EVERYONE on operations in the Middle new gifts crying bitterly. “Why 01526 347506 East and America, and one to approach all of our business in Sqn Ldr Thom Colledge Lance Publishing Ltd, IS FORWARD East at the drop of a hat plus are you crying?” the father [email protected] Cyprus replaced by the real 2014, from providing support 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, a whole host of other exciting asked. “Because my friends will thing...the most significant and facilities to our families, FOCUSED ON THE achievements all captured in be jealous, I’ll have to read all *The answer is Die Hard by the way. RAF/ Royal Saudi Air Force through to maximising Distribution Kettering NN16 8NL. the following pages. these instructions before I can Tel: 01536 512624 CHRISTMAS BREAK exercise yet conducted at the operational capability from Lead: Cpl Ian Scott do anything with this stuff, Fax: 01536 515481 same time...the Dambusters the Coningsby Typhoon Wing Deputy Lead: SAC Graham Dexter AND SOME MUCH As I write these words I’ll constantly need batteries, 70th Anniversary, and and our lodging units. We Email: [email protected] in the week of XI Squadron’s and my toys will eventually Distribution Team: NEEDED TIME WITH Jamie Norris flying the flag have already kicked off some www.lancepublishing.co.uk safe return from Cyprus, it is get broken.” answered the for Service, Force, Station, work on this and everyone SAC Jez Parkinson-Stuart (LS) FRIENDS AND pleasing to think of all the men pessimist twin. Passing the Squadron and UK PLC...a record has a contribution to make SAC Paul White (LS) and woman heading off for optimist twin’s room, the father View Onetoone online at FAMILY, MOST OF season for BBMF...success on here. I can’t promise jam today, SAC Jonny Anderson (LS) some well earned leave, but it found him dancing for joy in sports pitches, athletics tracks and some things will not be www.onetooneonline.co.uk THE CONTENT OF won’t be long before they are the pile of manure. “What are and horse-riding arenas... quick fixes, but I am convinced THE MAGAZINE IS A all back at work and focusing you so happy about?” he asked. EAW duties trained for and that there are real, tangible Printed By Design RETROSPECTIVE ON on the next challenge. At times The optimist twin replied, assumed...and more visitors improvements that we Lance Print Ltd Sherrie Bacarese like these, the importance of a “There’s got to be a pony in than I can remember. can make. Tel: 01480 492183 WHAT EVERYONE positive outlook on life reminds here somewhere!” me of a festive tale. A family Little wonder then that Enough of the Advertising HAS BEEN UP TO I know has twin boys whose I sincerely hope that every I think Christmas and some exhortations: enjoy the break Jo Marchant SINCE THE LAST only resemblance to each one has a wonderful holiday time off will be extremely and time with friends and Lance Publishing Ltd, EDITION HIT other is in their appearance. and a well deserved rest. If welcome for all of us and our families, stay off the scales (it’s In every other way they are you are fortunate to be sitting families: it has been hard- and only depressing and the gym is 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, THE STREETS IN completely opposite; one is an at home on Christmas Day well-earned and I offer my what January was invented for) Kettering NN16 8NL LATE SUMMER/ eternal optimist, the other a animatedly discussing with sincere thanks to everyone and from Lisa, James, Henry and Tel: (01536) 526674 doom and gloom pessimist. In your loved ones what the best for the breadth and depth of me...have a very Merry Christmas EARLY AUTUMN. the name of experimentation, festive film is*, please spare achievement. Equally, I am and a Happy New Year. 6 FEATURES ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 7

The deployment to the UK was a significant exercise BROADWAY CARPETS & CURTAINS LTD for the Royal Saudi Air Force. The Station Commander, “FOR CONINGSBY AND FOR THE Group Captain Stringer, and other RAF personnel join RAF THIS IS A HUGELY SIGNIFICANT For all your soft furnishing requirements. with Brigadier General Al-Shahrani and RSAF personnel EXERCISE, AN OPPORTUNITY TO after the arrival of the RSAF Tornados. FLY THE SAME AIRCRAFT TYPES Curtains, Carpets, Wallpaper, Blinds, Awnings, Furniture WITH OUR RSAF FRIENDS, TO SHARE & Lighting Showroom. OUR TACTICAL THINKING ON HOW All types of wood/luxury vinyl flooring and stockists of WE EMPLOY OUR PLATFORMS, Sherborne and Parker Knoll Furniture. AND FOR US AS A STATION TO Come and visit us on the Broadway, Woodhall Spa. SUPPORT A DETACHMENT AT Open: Tues - Fri 9.00 am - 5.30pm SIGNIFICANT RANGE FROM A Sat 9.00am - 5.00pm Matthew Temple House, FELLOW AIR FORCE. AT THE END OF The Broadway, Woodhall Spa, THE EXERCISE WE WILL GET TO THE Lincolnshire LN10 6ST POINT WHERE SUCCESS FOR US, T: 01526 353484 F: 01526 353584 AND I THINK I CAN SPEAK FOR THE E: [email protected] RSAF AS WELL, IS THAT OUR PILOTS, W: broadwaycarpetsandcurtains.co.uk NAVIGATORS, ENGINEERS, FIGHTER RSAF and RAF personnel joined CONTROLLERS - ALL OF THE PEOPLE together to share a traditional meal provided by 3 MCS, assisted by WHO THE RSAF HAS BROUGHT some Saudi chefs. ACROSS THAT WE ARE HOSTING BOTH AT CONINGSBY AND MORE BROADLY IN THE UK - NOT ONLY UNDERSTAND AND KNOW EACH OTHER A LITTLE BIT BETTER, BUT IF WE EVER HAVE TO GO AND FLY AND FIGHT ALONGSIDE EACH OTHER FOR REAL THEN WE WILL HAVE THE CONFIDENCE IN EACH OTHER THAT WE ARE ABLE TO DO THAT.

- Group Captain Johnny Stringer, RAF Coningsby Station Commander

SAUDI-BRITISH God bless you… Richard Sivill Gallery inc Tattershall Engraving Full framing service. Large selection of open and limited edition prints including aviation prints. Passport ID Photos taken. GREENTornado crews from Full Engraving Service - RAF Marham were part of Trophies, Hip Flasks, Tankards engraved to your specification the exercise. Their aircraft are seen here with Royal Squadron Crests etc. Saudi Air Force C130s Ideal leaving gifts Quick Turnaround 4 High Street, Tattershall. FLAG 01526 345388 AIRCRAFT, CREWS AND SUPPORTING PERSONNEL FROM THE ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE, (RSAF) HAVE BEEN OPERATING ALONGSIDE THEIR ALLIES FROM THE ROYAL AIR FORCE AS “ONE VERY IMPORTANT EXERCISE SAUDI-BRITISH GREEN FLAG TOOK OBJECTIVE WE HAVE IS PLACE AT RAF CONINGSBY IN SEPTEMBER. TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR PEOPLE, FROM AIRCREW, JOHN CHAPMAN AF Typhoons from the 10th complexity, during which the TO ENGINEERS, TO STAFF, Sqn, based at King Fahad crews gained a wider knowledge TO FIGHTER CONTROL RAir Base, Taif were flown into of how the other force works AND ALL THE OTHER BUILDER the Lincolnshire base alongside and also how to use the relative ROLES, WORK SIDE BY Tornados from the 75th Sqn, King strengths of their aircraft to New Build, Alterations, Extensions Abdul Aziz Air Base, Dhahran. No generate greater overall effects. SIDE WITH THE RAF; TO BE 3 (Fighter) Squadron supplied the READY IF WE EVER NEED Repairs and Maintenance RAF Typhoon element, alongside TO OPERATE TOGETHER. a composite Tornado GR4 force INSET PHOTOGRAPH: Two Silverdale, 126b Horncastle Road from RAF Marham. The ten day nations working together. - Brigadier-General exercise saw the Saudi and RAF Formation of from front, RSAF Mohammed Al-Shahrani, the Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire LN10 6UX crews fly in a series of training Typhoon, RAF Typhoon, RSAF RSAF Detachment Commander. flights of gradually increasing Tornado, RAF Tornado. Tel: 01526 353421 8 FEATURES ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 9 Peebles & Hilton OPTOMETRISTS EYE EXAMINATIONS CONTACT LENS PRACTITIONERS COMPLETE EYE CARE - NHS & PRIVATE PATIENTS SUPER RANGE OF QUALITY FRAMES OWN WORKSHOP AND REPAIR FACILITIES

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“LYNDON” TAWNEY STREET BOSTON TEL: (01205) 365395 Catering was provided by the excellent 3 Mobile Catering Squadron, who extended their already impressive repertoire to include croissants and pastries too Banovallum catercater foforr ththee tastes of our French counterparts.counterpart Needless to say, Veterinary Group theythey were greatlyg appreciated byy all concerned and PROSPECT STREET, HORNCASTLE, LINCOLNSHIRE LN9 5AY the standard of TELEPHONE: (01507) 522236 or (01507) 523365 the food throughoutout was www.banovallumvets.co.uk consistently outstanding. 47 Sqn, a UK C-130 unit joined the Deployment on the SURGERY TIMES The first week in second week. Two of their missions HORNCASTLE support of JOINT J WARRIOR gave the included deploying paratroopers Monday - Saturday: 8.30 - 9.30am drop in EAW staff time to get their procedures in to Spadeadam and extracting a Monday - Friday: 4.00 - 6.30pm by appointment place, convert empty shells of buildings group of civilians from an oil refinery WOODHALL SPA into functional work spaces and sort in Stornaway, that was about to be Monday - Friday: 1.30 - 2.30pm drop in out all the inevitable teething problems over-run by the enemy. The EAW that accompany the setting up of a new were tasked to provide food, shelter CONINGSBY IT and secure telephone system. The IT and medical support for the refugees Monday - Friday: 3.30 - 4.30pm drop in suite provided the benefit of allowing on their return. 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE PLEASE TELEPHONE access to live messaging systems which HORNCASTLE 522236 or 523365 amongst many other things, allowed The 15th of October saw a Air Tasking Orders to be shared by visit by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief all exercise participants, display the Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford and the information as a 24hr flying programme. French Air Force Chief, Gen Denis This was a blessing for the planning staff, Mercier who were keen to see all saving them a lot of work in providing the aspects of the EAW being put RUSSELL GREEN EXERCISE all participants a clear representation of through their paces. Residential Care Home for the Elderly who was airborne, when their tanking he purpose of the Exercise slots were and when they are due There were many elements 11 Stanhope Avenue, Woodhall Spa, was for the Marham- back at the airfield. Other messaging involved in the making of the 600 Lincolnshire, LN10 6SP TConingsby EAW to achieve systems proved invaluable in keeping strong team that deployed to validation prior to taking over from in touch with higher command and Leeming. These including heavy the Leuchars-Lossiemouth EAW on providing situational awareness of transport units, bomb disposal the 1st of November this year. To what was happening across the JOINT teams, imagery analysts, medics, add authenticity to the validation, WARRIOR exercise as a whole. The EAW RAF Regiment and police to name CAPABLE EAGLE was run in communications contingent alongside a few. Had the ‘Host Nation’ been CAPABLE support of Exercise JOINT WARRIOR their counterparts at the RAF’s 90 less benign, the numbers would SINCE THE BEGINNING which, in turn, formed part of the Signals Unit ensured connectivity was have been swelled by Air Traffic and OF APRIL 2013, BOTH work up of the Combined Joint maintained throughout, continually Fire-fighters in addition. It is essential Expeditionary Force. providing service with a smile under that each individual element of CONINGSBY AND some very testing conditions. the deployment pulls together MARHAM HAVE BEEN The EAW were tasked with as a team, in order to achieve a setting up a Deployed Operating The first week also enabled the successful outcome. Testament to WORKING TOGETHER Base (DOB) from RAF Leeming in UK EAW staff to get to know their the professionalism of all involved, EAGLE TO SET UP A JOINT support of 1 (Fighter) Typhoon French counterparts. It’s amazing how Exercise CAPABLE EAGLE was a Sqn from RAF Leuchars and a much school French one can recall resounding success. Over the course EXPEDITIONARY AIR French L’Armee de L’Air Mirage when needed. The universal language of the two weeks, over 180 missions WING. PERSONNEL 2000-N. More than 600 UK airmen of sweets and chocolate should not were flown, meeting or exceeding and women plus 100 French be underestimated when cementing all of the objectives in support of a FROM BOTH personnel were involved in the international relations. major exercise. Set in the beautiful village of Woodhall Spa. STATIONS HAVE BEEN Exercise – one of the biggest With a short level walk to all the village amenities. PROGRESSING THEIR training events in Europe. The second week saw the start of On the last evening a joint 24 hour care provided by the validation phase of CAPABLE EAGLE, celebration was held and the French professionally trained staff WAY THROUGH A The EAW sent an Advance bringing with it all the testing scenarios did excel in providing some excellent SERIES OF EXERCISES, Party to Leeming on 17 Sep who, one would expect. All rapidly became wine, cheese, meat and bread. The A Home Care Service is also available with expert help from the Royal closely acquainted with the floor of the Brits, in turn, introduced the French taking the same standard of care and CULMINATING IN Engineers, erected a tented city HQ, due to the regularity of simulated to the delights of John Smiths. At the EXERCISE CAPABLE which was to be home for over rocket attacks. 8 Force Protection Wing, end of the evening the French sang commitment out into the local community 600 for the duration of the Exercise. along with the Role 1 Medical facility, a rousing rendition of La Marseillaise. For more detailed information visit our website at EAGLE HELD AT RAF Each tent was reasonably homely; were kept busy dealing with casualties Of course, once the Six Nations LEEMING FROM THE equipped with one light, a multi- from these attacks along with the Rugby starts it will be drowned www.russellgreencarehome.co.uk socket and a heating system, which incredible number of simulated Road out by Swing Low Sweet Chariot. 5TH TO THE 18TH was invaluable for drying out wet Traffic Collisions that occurred within There are some old rivalries that will Telephone: 01526 352879 OF OCTOBER. kit as well as keeping warm. such a small DOB. never die! 10 ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 11 12 3(F) SQN UPDATE ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 13

Squadrons from Coningsby that Another social high point served during the Battle (everyone was an impromptu TACEVAL of the Our best wishes to you except XI Sqn) a hugely enjoyable Station Commander at the start of night was had by all until the October. Dressed in a wide variety all for a happy 2014 small hours. The following day of Halloween outfits entertainment the Officers of 3(F) Sqn and one on the night was provided by a stowaway WAAF, Doris Bader, firework competition and Flt Lt Dates for your diary (booking required for each event) travelled to London to conduct a ‘Simmo’ Simcox dressed as Miley force development day using the Cyrus – the white underpant, Battle Of Britain Memorial Walk. twerking version (nasty). 1st January Beginning at RAF Uxbridge the New Year’s Day Brunch walk encompassed various sites of 3(F) welcomed Sqn Ldr with live entertainment, significance and included a total of Steve Kenworthy from the OCU in 6 stands where short presentations September, a former Harrier GR9 11am-2pm, £20pp were made to reflect on the Battle instructor and display pilot. We’re and draw comparisons to 3(F) looking forward to his endless stories New Year’s Day Afternoon Tea, Sqn’s contemporary primary role of about VIFF, running out of water defending the UK’s airspace. and birdstrikes. Flt Lt Tris Simkins a 3pm-5.30pm £10.50pp former GR4 pilot and OC TTF also In September the Squadron joins from 29(R) to bolster the 3(F) 14th & 15th February held a combined ‘bottom table’ Junta ranks. When he isn’t flying Tris at the White Hart Hotel in Lincoln. runs a small but highly profitable Valentine’s Dinner, £35pp Newly promoted Sgt Kieron ‘Mongo’ sideline as a slightly chubby Philip Taylor hosted the night assisted by Schofield lookalike and has already Sunday 30th March SAC(T) Tom Reilly (dressed in a 60’s expressed a strong desire to join the silver suit) as Mr Vice. Following a Cheshire Group. Mothering Sunday Lunch, superb meal, a game of naming the £22.50pp countries of the Commonwealth Focus for the RAF’s first was undertaken and after a few laps operational Typhoon Squadron now of the room the pressure was on. moves to the Advanced Tactical Not wanting to lose face in front of Leadership Course (ATLC), a large For details on all our events, his troops Flt Lt James Kingswood, force exercise in the UAE which email [email protected] to join our mailing list. 3(F) Sqn JEngO, provided his final will be covered in the next edition. We look forward to welcoming you answer of…Germany – nice work. The 5 week deployment will allow A huge thanks to SAC(T) Ben the Squadron to practice a large Wingfield and SAC(T) Ben Pell for scale deployment of 8 aircraft to organising the event. what will be a highly enjoyable and challenging exercise. Until next time 3(F) SQN – TERTIUS PRIMUS ERIT. eavy weapons training was maintaining aircraft for QRA duties – an flown in the Aberporth excellent achievement. HDanger Area located in Cardigan Bay. Fourteen weapons 3(F)’s resident exchange officer, Flt were dropped utilising GPS, Lt ‘Fiddy’ Nilson continued his European self laser designation and adventures (having attended the cooperative laser designation Zeltwig Air Show earlier in the summer) UPDATE attacks achieving fourteen direct by leading a pair of aircraft to the Malta hits. This training is invaluable Air Show. Accompanied by Flt Lt Tim THE RAF’S OLDEST FIXED-WING for refreshing live weapon Pye and a small engineering team experience for all pilots and is a the 3(F) jets proved to be one of the SQUADRON (YES, II(AC) SQN. CHECK fundamental part of our capability highlights of the show. as a multi-role Squadron. YOUR FACTS) HAS, ONCE AGAIN, On the social front the Squadron BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF LIFE Finishing the summer on a supported the Battle of Britain Dining in high, Flt Lt’s Kev Broder, Si Taylor, Night en masse. Given the Squadron’s AT RAF CONINGSBY DURING A Gregor Ogston and ‘Grob’ Thomas 101 year history it is unsurprising to conducted an Overseas Training find that it had a role to play in the BUSY AUTUMN PERIOD. SINCE Flight to Malbork Airbase in Poland. RAF’s finest hour. Joined by the other Landing on Friday afternoon the 4 THE LAST EDITION, 3(F) SQN HAVE pilots were joined by CT Ady Walker, PARTICIPATED IN HEAVY WEAPONS Cpl’s Kris Blake and Andy Keighron, SACs Anderson, Smith, Gardner, TRAINING, SAUDI BRITISH GREEN Rawson and Flt Lt Luke ‘D’JEngO’ Bonnett. A thoroughly enjoyable FLAG (SBGF), OVERSEAS TRAINING weekend in Gdansk culminated in four sorties of 1v1 Dissimilar Air WITH THE POLISH AIR FORCE, Combat Training flown on Monday A family run award winning traditional pub/restaurant, THE MALTESE AIRSHOW AND A against the MiG-29, a highly serving good home cooked food with a large selection capable adversary which provided of 15 cask and keg ales (CAMRA Good Beer NUMBER OF SOCIAL EVENTS. exceptionally valuable training for the four pilots. Guide 20012/13) 3.5 miles from Coningsby. Families, children and dogs welcome. The bar has The next big event that occurred in 3(F)’s busy calendar was an open coal fire ensuring a warm friendly convivial Saudi British Green Flag. The Exercise atmosphere in which to enjoy your meal with friend, proved to be very successful and family or that special person. Free Wi-Fi available too. ensured that old acquaintances and new friendships were reaffirmed in Food is served Tuesday to Sunday between a tactically relevant exercise. Despite noon and 2pm and 6pm - 9pm this commitment some excellent Sunday Lunch available noon - 2pm work by the 3(F) Sqn engineers ensured that routine Squadron All year round a great place to eat and drink! training continued as normal in (Always advisable to book - Telephone 01526 354560) addition to the standing task of 14 XI SQN ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 15

October, XI Squadron saw some more USAF for introducing him to alcohol good flying out in Cyprus providing and cigarettes! Flt Lt Andrea ‘Spy’ Holt Close Air Support training with ground has gone to RAF High Wycombe and troops and even more maritime training taken her recce briefs with her. How with our French friends in the Chevalier are we supposed to remember British Paul frigate. The routine of flying and Q Racing Dream Machines now?! Our continued while XI Squadron, as part of devoted OpsO Flt Lt Stuart ‘Stu’ Hicken 121 Expeditionary Air Wing, saw several has gone to Al Udeid leaving us to learn senior visits including the Typhoon Force very very quickly how to write a flying Commander Air Cdre Gary Waterfall, the programme. How did you make it so Joint Force Air Component Commander effortless Stu?! Finally we lost our OC, Air Cdre Phil Beach and Commander Wg Cdr Wells, to a desk in RAF High Joint Operations Lieutenant-General Wycombe. You will be missed Sir, try not XI David Capewell. At the time of print to get too ground happy! however, XI Squadron are expecting to come home at the end of November Despite our loses, we gained 4 to enjoy a few weeks of regular training new pilots. Capt Curtis ‘Cyprus’ Switzer flying in the run up to Christmas and the replaces Ajax as the American exchange pilots’ lunch. officer. Flt Lt Mark ‘Suggs’ Sugden and Flt Lt Scott ‘no-yes’ Noyes join us after 5 Unfortunately XI Squadron long years at RAF Valley on the Hawk. has lost a few people. Firstly we said Finally, fresh off of the QWI course, Flt SQN UPDATE goodbye to Flt Lt Mark ‘Schlongy’ Long Lt Martin ‘Marti’ Geraghty joins us who who heads to 29(R) Squadron to train is already enjoying ‘the quiet life’ on XI some more talent for XI. We wish him Squadron. All should be combat ready AFTER AN EVENTFUL SUMMER, XI the best over on the other side and before Christmas so hopefully an XI look forward to seeing him on Q! Flt Lt Squadron patch can be included under SQUADRON WAS LOOKING FORWARD Giles ‘Crofty’ Croft has also disappeared the Christmas tree! into the depths of 22 Gp on the Hawk TO IT’S TIME RUNNING UP TO T2 at RAF Valley. We shall miss him at The next few months should see CHRISTMAS. WE HAD THE DELIGHTS OF Coningsby but we’re sure he will be a XI Squadron settling into its normal huge contribution to IV(R) Squadron. We training rhythm. Not forgetting the EX JOINT WARRIOR TO LOOK FORWARD also lose Major Derek ‘Ajax’ Syswerda our highlight of January though, a Middle American exchange officer. He has been Eastern training exercise, where XI TO IN THE BEAUTIFUL VALE OF YORK sent back across the pond to become should see some live drops and a bit an instructor on the USAFs latest fighter more winter sun. Let’s hope we find a bit ALONG WITH OUR OWN EXERCISE aircraft the Joint Strike Fighter. We shall of time for a social……… miss the American banter on Squadron DOUBLE DIAMOND IN DECEMBER. and we can only apologise to the OCIORES ACRIORESQUE AQUILIS nstead, the Royal Air Force’s premier people were mildly disappointed when Typhoon Squadron were deployed a piano duel fell through after a double conditioning!conditioning! It wasn’t particuparticularlylarly Ito sunny Cyprus on Op LUMINOUS booking of pianists. comfortablecomfortable bubutt ththee wawakeke bboardingoarding leaving our lucky comrades from 3(F) club at the snugs beach out there did Squadron to pick up double Q for us. As the dust settled over the their best to cool us all down. Once We’ve also had 6 people depart from weekend following the dining in training flying was cleared in Cyprus, the the glorious XI Squadron, including night, few would have expected to pilots started to rack up the hours due a boss and an IntO, but with the be in Cyprus the following week. As to a Tanker being airborne everyday. addition of 4 new pilots and the the news of Chemical Weapon use With 3(F) Squadron not yet at ATLC, return of Sqn Ldr Al Allsop from the in Syria flooded the newspapers, XI Cyprus became the place to be for XI South Atlantic. Squadron returned to work with eager Squadron to fly full stop! HMS Dragon anticipation. Sure enough, the call was also saw her 6 month tour extended by XI Squadron hosted its annual received and on the 29th of August several months in the Mediterranean for ladies guest night at Branston Hall. all hands went to action stations. After Op LUMINOUS and were keen to work Organised in toto by Flt Lt Owen cancelling 29(R) Squadron’s holiday in with XI Squadron. As a result, pilots saw ‘Thompo’ Thompson, the evening the Mediterranean, we hijacked their several air-maritime integration sorties saw a much delayed dining out for trail plans and deployed 6 aircraft and which culminated in HMS Dragon Sqn Ldr Matt ‘D’Aubs’ D’Aubyn and a a number of personnel, including 12 hosting a few XI Squadron personnel for pre-emptive one for Wg Cdr Rich ‘Wellsa’ pilots, to RAF Akrotiri in record time. a tour of the ship and most importantly, Wells. We also saw Flt Lt Dan ‘Daisy’ After getting the engineers out to the Officers’ Ward Room! Hayes, Flt Lt Thompson and Flt Lt James Cyprus shortly after the aircraft arrived, ‘Pearcie’ Pearce declared as Combat XI Squadron was ready to do whatever On the 24th September, Wg Cdr Ready after a busy first few months with was required. Wells had his last flight and handed over XI Squadron. A superb evening was had the XI Squadron baton to Wg Cdr Chris by all due to a very accommodating XI Squadron settled into a routine ‘Laydo’ Layden who joins us from his year host with a flowing bar, although a few of Q in 40 degree heat with no air of Staff College at RAF Shrivenham. For 16 29(R) SQN UPDATE ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 17 Tattershall Kirkby on Bain 29(R) SQN Primary School Church of England Primary School IT HAS BEEN A BUSY PERIOD FOR 29. THE SQN Learning together for life HAS GRADUATED 2 COURSES, SAID GOODBYE TO SEVERAL OF ITS STAFF, WELCOMED SOME At Tattershall Primary School we work in close At Kirkby on Bain Church of England Primary School, MORE, AND OF COURSE, GOT WITHIN TOUCHING partnership with parents and carers to help all children children are nurtured and inspired, within a safe and happy DISTANCE OF CYPRUS. HOWEVER, ALL WAS NOT achieve their full potential in a happy and caring environment, to become well-rounded independent learners LOST, AND WHILE XI SQN SUNNED THEMSELVES who are academically and socially prepared for the future. ON THE BEACH, 29 DEPARTED CONINGSBY learning environment. TO OPERATE FROM RAF WADDINGTON. We set high expectations for learning and behavior and Visits to the school are warmly welcomed at any time continually strive to raise standards through providing a s with any change of As part of the ever increasing relevant, varied and stimulating curriculum. scenery, morale rocketed student turnover we welcome Aand the Sqn was on a high. Opcon 22, comprising Steve It was during this time that we Moore, Wally (not to be confused Visits to the school are warmly welcomed. said goodbye to Opcon 20 and with simulator Wally), Wildy, and “Kirkby on Bain is a happy, inclusive and deeply caring school... The school, through its we wish you all the best. As a finally Yoshi, our American Marine. distinctive Christian character, is outstanding at meeting the needs of all learners.” result of that course’s careful Finally a steady flow of Abo’s Please contact the administrator Mrs A Porter or the (Church Schools Inspection, July 2012) deliberation, Nick Graham sets instead of crusty old re-treads. We headteacher Mrs Janette Davey who will be pleased to a new record for the longest are also joined by Opcon 23; Jamie show you around the school and answer your queries. consecutive run of B*****d Pot Lenox, Tori, James Milmine and Will 01526 352715 • w ww.kobps.lincs.sch.uk awards. Congratulations Nick! Ricketts. Welcome to you too. Wharf Lane, Kirkby on Bai n, Woodhall Spa LN10 6YW In early September we With one course arriving sent Pockers and Killa (combined we must inevitably congratulate age: 96) to fly the flag and another. Opcon 21 recently re-enforce our presence on the graduated, sending Yorkie Beevers tiny peninsula of Gibraltar and and Scott Noyes to XI Sqn whilst Tattershall, Lincoln LN4 4QZ partake in the Battle of Britain Bondy joins 3 Sqn. After finally Tel/Fax: celebrations. Their safety pilots for finishing the course we welcome 01526 342045 the journey were Flt Sgt Barker Sqn Ldr Batu, Aka ‘Tils’, as our Email: [email protected] and Sgt Coots. The 29 team were newest Flt Cdr. It is with the arrival also there as part of the renaming of our new OC B that we must Headteacher: Mrs Janette Davey ceremony for the headquarter say goodbye to Sqn Ldr Ewen building for RAF Gibraltar. The Robertson who departs the Sqn to building had recently been continue the good work at Warton. renamed after a famous French We wish yourself and the family pilot who managed to flee to the all the best as you make your way UK, through Gibraltar. Once back closer to your motherland. in the UK he continued his fight in The Frithville and the war flying Spitfires for the RAF. As Wg Cdr Pemberton’s time in charge of 29 Sqn draws to a New York Federation In October a small group of close, he, along with a select team, Executive Headteacher: Mr P Bargh 29 personnel enjoyed some AT on recently spent the weekend in Please take a look at our two wonderful village schools! the beautiful island of Ascension. Austria furthering Anglo-Austrian During their sub-aqua adventures relations whilst gaining an insight they managed to write themselves into how one of the other Typhoon Our Vision into the history books by not nations run their Sqn. He took Amongst the 100 top performing Attitude, Belief and Commitment are the ABC of our Federation. only catching one of the largest with him the XO, to carry his bags, schools based on sustained We care, we hope, we respect, we create. Hawksbill turtles on record, but also Stuka, Ben W-B, Mike Mason, and improvement in Level 4+ each Together as a community we learn! by helping to fit the second ever 8 engineers under the guidance year from 2009 - 2012 GPS tracker to such a turtle! of Flt Sgt York. On an aside, for those few he is yet to tell, Mike is 100% of children made the A special mention must soon to pack his bags and fishing Governments required 2 also be made to congratulate rod and depart to Australia on levels progress in 2012 the engineering team, headed exchange flying F-18s. Also making Good Church of England up by Flt Sgt York and Flt Sgt the journey to Austria were Strats’ Primary School Proctor, for their labour of love pants, which by the looks of it had High standards of behaviour getting the 29 Sqn Gate Guard some pretty good chat. Rumour Small classes, into its current glorious state. has it that the pants took them high percentage of Teaching Although the Lightning has both home that night. It has been Assistants, been on display for a little while a strong finish to the year and we many out of school activities, now, it has nonetheless recently look to continue the good run long good links been awarded with a Station into the next. Who knows, next with the community. Commander’s Commendation. year we may finally get to Cyprus! Breakfast Club available from Congratulations to all involved. Merry Christmas! 8am every day

Enquiries and visits welcome. Frithville Primary School New York Primary School Frithville, Boston, New York, Langrick Road, 01507 568304 Lincolnshire, PE22 7EX Lincs LN4 4XH Telephone and fax: 01205 750291 Telephone/fax 01205 280320 www.mareham.lincs.sch.uk E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] www.frithville.lincs.sch.uk www.newyork.lincs.sch.uk 18 BASE SUPPORT WING ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 19

THE SHAPE OF THINGS The support of squadron sports been purchased and will go into a JRS HAVE THEIR SAY WITH TO COME… and fitness reps has been immense new AT store. With 3 AT instructors THE NEW JUNIOR RANKS You’ve got to be fit to fight, and generated significant increases now based at RAF Coningsby the COMMITTEE (JRC) whether that fight is at 39,000 feet or in fitness testing and pass rates. In Station is well placed to make the The newly established Junior just 3 feet above sea level. Physical October alone the PEd Flt tested most of arduous and experimental Ranks‘ Committee (JRC) aims to training is a fundamental part of over 30% of the Station population activities to train and develop provide the JRs with a coherent Service life and being fit to fight is also yet still ran a full programme of people to be fit for ops. voice, sprinkled with a bit of muscle about being well educated on the daytime and evening sports and PEd Flt will be making the very so that they own what functions best ways to train and achieve your fitness sessions. There is much work best use of existing facilities and happen in their bar and also what goals. It is not all about being ‘beasted’ going on behind the scenes as the working to continuously improve food choices they have in their into shape; it is about pushing PEd Flight is working to improve services, so if you want more mess. This is nothing new for Sgts personal stamina and capability, but the existing gyms, including the details about taking part in formal and Officers but for JRs this is a not breaking people in the process! Typhoon Aircrew Conditioning Area and informal physical training, complete step change and a shift That is what the Station Physical and the Health and Fitness Suite, by education and development at into the 21st century, whilst seizing Education Flight is here to do – to rationalising all of the equipment and RAF Coningsby please speak to Sgt the opportunity to get the most out provide training and education. sharing it out across the Station. The Gale and his team in the Station of the CRL partnership. Having recently welcomed aim is to distribute more equipment Gymnasium. That’s the shape of The JRC might be at the several new members of the across more floor space to maximise things to come for PEd and PT here embryonic stage but the initial team, namely Sgt Rob Gale, Cpl the numbers of people who can at Coningsby: more choice, more meetings have sparked enthusiasm, BASE SUPPORT WING Andy McMahon and Cpl Sadie take part in physical training. On options, more people, more often! vision and future plans; the first being Williams, the Physical Education the teaching side the JRs’ Christmas Cocktail Party. Gone ARE YOU PREPARED FOR days. It is therefore essential that our Flight has started to deliver a more ‘survival training’ is the traditional Living In Christmas CONTINGENT OPERATIONS? people remain fully prepared to avoid diverse programme of training will be returning ‘sprout throwing’ Dinner in the JR The Marham Coningsby any delays to the deployment which and education as part of the new to the main Mess as the JRC are proposing a OVERVIEW Expeditionary Air Wing stood up could adversely impact operations. PEd timetable. That includes more gymnasium and it Cocktail party with Christmas themed on 1 November 2013 under the This is where BSW come frequent circuit sessions that are will be delivered by canapés and cocktails on 12 Dec 13 in IF RAF CONINGSBY IS ABOUT AIRCRAFT, leadership of Stn Cdr RAF Coningsby in. Passports, driving licenses, fitness spread out across the week and qualified members the Typhoon Bar and Heroes. Another EQUIPMENT AND PEOPLE, THEN BASE and from the outset BSW personnel testing, medical and dental checks scheduled to cater for day and of PEd Flt using step change is that the function will SUPPORT WING IS VERY MUCH AT THE played an integral and important part plus vaccinations, common core night shift personnel, and yet more a new parachute be open to all JRs and provide the FOREFRONT OF SUPPORTING THE LATTER. in the planning and coordination. skills training, individual contingency to come as new ‘core strength and training rig. New opportunity to get dressed up for a With people as our most important readiness training and weapon stability’ sessions will appear in the Adventurous function that will not be too dissimilar IN THIS EDITION WE DESCRIBE THE RANGE asset, it is vital that we get our job handling tests must be in date timetable in the New Year. Keep an Training (AT) to Sgts’ and Officers’ Mess Christmas OF WORK THAT HAS BEEN GOING ON right! Firstly, we need the right mix whilst personal details including eye out for announcements. equipment has draws. Sadly the greatest challenge IN BSW IN SUPPORT OF THOSE WHO of people and that includes ranks, next of kin and emergency contact facing the JRC is ‘hard cash’ as JRs do SERVE AT RAF CONINGSBY AS WELL AS trades/branches, competencies and details must be up to date. All of not have the luxury of generating experience. Secondly, we need to this preparation must be fitted in money in the same way that messes THE FAMILIES THAT SUPPORT THEM. ensure they are trained and prepared around the routine business of WE’RE ALL GOING ON A can; however, a number of options are for their roles. Finally, we need to BSW as well as the primary duties SUMMER HOLIDAY currently being explored with the Stn ever is there a greater need to those deployed. When deployed ensure they are adequately provided of all 80 RAF Coningsby EAW BSW are pleased to and CRL – so watch this space! support our people and their the role of my staff is just as broad as for and supported when called upon, personnel. Flexibility therefore is announce that RAF Coningsby As you read this the JRC Nfamilies than during operations back at base, albeit more complex. either in an Exercise environment or the key to ensuring that the Station will soon take delivery of its are planning and preparing a and as the RAF moves from deployed We continue to deliver routine on Operations. can continue to maintain its Force very own motorhome thanks comprehensive entertainments ops onto a contingent footing, personnel services, along with With the constant changing Elements @ Readiness posture. to a grant from the RAF Central package coupled with regular theme exercises such as the recent CAPABLE arguably one of our most important demands on our people, our Fund, additional funding from nights in the mess but the largest EAGLE in support of the contingent roles - dealing with compassionate Operational Establishment Table our Local Initiative Grant and venture over the course of the next 6 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW) ensure and welfare cases, whilst also (OET) (the list of people and skills much hard work and effort by months will be the transformation of that we are all working to the same managing personnel movements, needed from both Stations to meet the Community Support the Typhoon Bar. With the full support operational end. the accommodation plot, flight the EAW commitment) changes Team (CST). of the Stn and CRL, the JRC hope to When the EAW is called upon bookings, arrivals briefs, soft facilities by the day; as therefore do the The upshot of all of this change what is currently a dark and to deploy, either on exercise or for management, infrastructure issues, associated preparation and training has been the purchase of a dismal bar area into a multi-functional real, we have 2 sets of people to look disciplinary casework and, close requirements for those people. All brand new Elddis Autoquest 180 inviting environment that JRs will after. Our ‘home team’ caters for, and to everyone’s hearts, the provision those on the OET are held at high which will be available for RAF want to use and chill out in. supports, the needs of our families of welfare and fitness training and readiness so if called upon they must Coningsby personnel to hire The future is very exciting; we and those left behind and the ‘away equipment. This is just a flavour of be ready to move within a very few from early 2014. This 6-berth have a JRC which has a vision and is team’ is responsible for looking after the diverse work we do. motorhome can be driven by currently planning to make this vision personnel aged over 25 years come to life and supporting them in A NEW FACILITY AND A NAME the project in partnership with one who hold a full car licence and the process is the Stn and CRL. FORMAL RECOGNITION FOR our Service personnel and civilian served with loyalty and distinction and 23 commendations. These REMEMBERED - of our contractors, Lend Lease. Lend so should prove attractive to a RAF CONINGSBY HIGH FLIERS colleagues, we have a prestigious throughout lengthy careers, or range from Operational to THE FRAZER LODGE Lease are the contractors on Station wide audience of families and RAF Coningsby personnel Honours and Awards system to those who have served above Meritorious Service Medals, and With a fair wind and dry concrete, currently building the new SLAM friends. As well as all the basics, are deployed across the Globe ensure that those most deserving and beyond the call of duty Commendations awarded by the by the time this edition of One-to-One accommodation. The Station is paying the vehicle will also benefit from 365 days a year in support of are fully recognised. This ranges either in the workplace or in their Stn Commander and Air Officer hits the streets the Station will be well for the material for the Lodge with cabin air conditioning, cruise operations. In recognition of the from personnel deployed overseas local community. RAF Coningsby Commanding Number 1 Group. on the way to having a new facility. Lend Lease supplying the materials control, a 4 place bike rack and a effort and sacrifice made by both on operations, to those who have is blessed with dedicated and The last ceremony of The Frazer Lodge is being built next to for the foundation and hard-standing. TV and DVD player. hard working people and the year is scheduled for 5 the existing pavilion near to the sports Lend Lease are also providing the The RAF Coningsby CST accordingly we are proud to have December 2013. However, the pitches. The Lodge will be a small but building expertise to complete the placed the initial bid for the a significant number of honours team still have a large number welcome addition to the Station’s work, along with volunteers from the grant from the Central Fund in and awards to present to our to award and already have 10 infrastructure, and will facilitate a variety Station, coordinated by Flt Lt Williams, Summer 2013 and since then personnel each year. ceremonies scheduled for 2014. of uses. For example: to assist with the labour. The work was the bid was approved and a Starting 2013 with a Each ceremony is held in the due to begin in November. committee formed under the considerable backlog, legacy of Officers’ Mess and the families of • Post sporting fixture recreation, The Lodge has been named leadership of FS Ridley (Safety a tremendously busy 2011 and recipients are invited to attend somewhere warm and dry to to remember Flying Officer Robert Cell) and CT Hartley (MSC) to 2012 on Operations ELLAMY and along with work colleagues and celebrate or commiserate. Frazer DFC, who was killed in action take the project forward. Expect OLYMPICS, the BSW team have bosses. The nature of each award • For the use of the wider Station on his 63rd operation, flying from RAF to see some advertisement soon worked hard this year to clear is explained and each recipient community – for example ‘Gym Tots’. Coningsby in April 1944. Post war, his and be sure to book early to the backlog as well as ensure receives their award in person • A facility for Air Training Cadets/ name was inscribed on the Honours avoid disappointment. Prices that awards are received in a from the presenting officer and Combined Cadet Force on Summer Board in the foyer of SHQ, but due to are expected to range from timely fashion and in a manner following the formal ceremony camps an error he was recorded as ‘R Iraler’. As £290-390 per week. befitting of the recipient’s refreshments are served for all the Lodge will be open for the Spring If you have any ideas for achievements. Accordingly, BSW attendees. All details of future The need for the Lodge was season around the 70th anniversary other projects that could benefit have held 6 Honours and Awards ceremonies are available on identified by the Station Training of his death, and as an opportunity to RAF Coningsby personnel and ceremonies in 2013 at which the the General Duties Team page Officer; Flight Lieutenant Chris Williams. remember one of our own who was which could be paid for by an Force Commander and Station of MOSS or you can contact The scheme was then taken up in a way ‘forgotten’, the decision was RAF Central Fund grant, please Commander have between the Station Adjutant or her by OC SSS, Squadron Leader Nikki made to name the building, ‘The Frazer contact either OC PMS, Sqn Ldr them presented 124 medals Administrative Office for details. Duncan, who sourced funding for Lodge’ in his memory. Warner, or the SCSO, WO Jenkins. 20 BASE SUPPORT WING ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 21

LOOKING FOR A VENUE? HIVE The food and beverage team at The National Golf Centre INFORMATION Are able to cater for Private Parties, Weddings, THIS WINTER the interests of the single living-in Balls & Dinner Parties in our community are addressed. Beautiful Hotchkin Suite Contact details: 01526 347211 COMMUNITY CENTRE DIARY CLINTON PARK, TATTERSHALL Mob: 07919 301832 Seating up to 125 for a dinner dance PROTECTING Monday Tiny Typhoons 0930 – 1130 Wednesday Tales & Tunes 0930 – 1045 Or 150 for a formal dinner COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Wednesday Youth Clubs 8 - 12 yrs 1730 – 1900 For smaller parties we can cater for OFFICER 12 - 15 yrs 1930 – 2100 YOUR FAMILY The role of the Community Thursday Rainbows 1800 – 1915 Your requirements in the HIVE INFORMATION SERVICE Development Officer (CDO) is to Thursday Pilates 1915 – 2015 The RAF HIVE Service supports promote a sense of community and Thursday Zumba 2015 – 2100 Clubhouse Dining Room the Chain of Command and tri-Service general well being for personnel Friday Community Support Clinic 0930 – 1130 We also cater for conferences AND HOME community through the provision of and families of people living and Friday Tiny Typhoons 0930 – 1130 up to date and relevant information. working at RAF Coningsby through: Mon, Wed - Fri Cupcake Café 0930 – 1230 & business seminars. uring the winter and a low setting when out or at night RAF HIVE Information Officers particularly over the festive (never below 15°C) • Networking and supporting Our bar is fully licensed until 1am are able to provide an extensive D season when you may Isolate and empty outside taps range of information on relocation, access and development of COMMUNITY CLINICS be leaving your Service Families PROTECT - local facilities, schools and further community provision For a brochure and further information Accommodation (or private family If you are going away leave the education, housing, healthcare • Ensuring community provision is Solicitors Office Tuesday Clinton Park Please call Denise on 01526 351825 home) empty there are a few heating on constant and set the complying with best practice and facilities, employment and training 0900 – 1200 Community Centre e-mail: [email protected] things to consider: thermostat to a minimum 15°C opportunities. Information on future government guidelines Wednesday Turn all your radiator valves on to relocations is one of the key areas of • Managing the Airplay project and 0900 – 1200 PREPARE - full and leave internal doors open information support and is available the Youth Engagement Team Test your heating and report any Turn your water off at the either in advance or on arrival at the Contact details: 01526 347865 Solicitors Clinic Wednesdays Station HIVE faults to the MHS helpdesk on stopcock receiving unit. RAF HIVE staffs are also Mob: 07799 273033 1200 – 1300 RAF Coningsby 0800 707 6000 PATCH MATES - involved in providing Operational (For Bardney Occupants call 0800 If you are away leave spare keys deployment support, including THE LOUNGE Mortgage Clinic Last Tuesday monthly Station HIVE 027 2057) and contact details with a trusted distributing deployment support The Lounge is a modern 1200 – 1330 RAF Coningsby PREVENT - friend or neighbour and ask them resources and providing information ‘living area’ for livers-in (all ranks) at Consider leaving your heating on to check the house and report on ways of communicating with Coningsby and is situated above RBL Clinic: Friday Clinton Park permanently and turning down to any problems deployed personnel. Heroes Bar. A non-alcoholic facility, 0930 – 1130 Community Centre Contact details: The Lounge has a staffed Coffee Station HIVE 01526 347868 Bar, wide screen TV, Playstation 3, Community Fridays Clinton Park PADRE’S PIECE CONTACT NUMBERS Coningsby HIVE 01526 342679 Wii, games and Wi-Fi. Support Team Clinic 0930 – 1130 Community Centre Station Contact Number 01526 342581 Open weekdays 1130—1330 PADRE MARK KENNARD gift that almost certainly involved SSAFA The Lounge is run by volunteers heartache, probably tears, and no Duty Personnel SSAFA provides a confidential in the evenings so opening times COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM BOARD little cost to the giver. Giving is never service to the RAF community, may vary. See doors for times. TRAVELLING ROUND without cost. Guardroom 24 hours: 01526 347212 / 347411 dealing with issues including: Bring Your Own Lunch!! Add a Chair - Wg Cdr Beer THE STATION IN PSF duty clerk /orderly officer Via Main Guardroom 01526 347212 delicious hot or cold drink from OC PMS - Sqn Ldr Warner Any parent will eventually be Relationship difficulties OCTOBER I WAS 01526 347346 / 347533 / 347208 the menu and enjoy a relaxed Station Medical Officer - Wg Cdr Davies GREETED WITH THE able to recount the story of letting go Chaplaincy Bereavement and loss comfortable lunch break. Station Chaplaincy - Padres Elliott, Kennard & Hall of a child to allow them to make their Duty Chaplain: 0777 5946573 Childcare Air Cadet Liaison Officer - CT Russell NEWS THAT THERE own way in the world. Station Medical Centre 01526 347217 Housing RAF CONINGSBY NURSERY & OC PSF - Flt Lt Jim Schofield WERE ONLY TWO Out of Hours 0845 045 0281 Separation KIDS CLUB Station Training Officer - Flt Lt Chris Williams What could I put under the NHS direct 111 Special needs PAY CHEQUES UNTIL Registered to provide services Service Community Support Officer - WO Al Jenkins CHRISTMAS. tree that might make a difference Community Support Personnel Benevolent Fund applications for 50 weeks of the year, closing for Youth Activities Liaison Officer - Flt Lt Garland for more than just Christmas this Contact details: two weeks over Christmas. Providing Community Development Officer - Lou Henderson his completely new thought year? The TV remote (so others can SSAFA Support Worker 01526 347846 / 347193 / 07775 948269 Office: 01526 347846 / 347193 nursery education funded places HIVE Information Officers - Tina Proctor & Ann Parkinson on the approaching season choose)? A night’s family ironing SSAFA Out of Hours 0207 463 9358 Mob: 0777 594 8269 for children aged 2—4 yrs for 38 SSAFA Personal & Family Support Worker - Jean Pattenden & T gave me pause to think. (every week)? A cherished memory Out of hours: 0207 463 9358 weeks of the year, following the local Dan Parkinson in a photo frame? Nights out as Service Families Accommodation (SFA) Fault reporting SSAFA Volunteer schools term times. DIO Housing Officer - Kate Ellis The “built in” response that “named driver” (or nights in as baby Modern Housing Solutions Co-ord: 0776 899 6738 Clinton Park, Tattershall, LN4 4QZ. I found myself thinking was that sitter)? (MHS) 01526 344325 Christmas is much more than Coningsby / Tattershall / SERVICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT www.nurseryandkidsclub.co.uk spending money and gifts. However Blessings for a Happy Christmas Horncastle / Sleaford SFA 0800 707 6000 OFFICER [email protected] in the harder times that many of us ACIS – Bardney SFA 0800 027 2057 The role of the Service live in now there are thoughts that are CHRISTMAS SERVICES AT HCR maintenance – Community Support Officer (SCSO) RAF Coningsby Nursery and [email protected]@mod.uk almost alien to us: we can’t afford to RAF CONINGSBY Substitute SFA 01256 313764 is to assist in the provision of ‘first line’ Kids Club CONTACT: RAFConingsbyHIVE@RAFConingsbyHIVE@ do that this year, we can’t manage a 1st December - 1000 Christingle support to Service personnel and btconnect.combtconnect.com present like that. 18th December - 1600 Station Carols Security their families, including acting as an ConingsbyConingsby HIVE (at SHQ) RAF Police - 01526 347588 interface between SFA Occupants and 01526 347868 / 342679 RAFConingsbyHIVERAFConingsbyHIVE Christmas is about a gift but 24th December -1500 Crib Service Lincolnshire Police - 101 the Housing authorities, coordinating one which relates directly to us now, - 2300 Midnight Mass Police Lincs Beat Manager - 07500 920076 stress management events in line a father gave his son to the world. A 25th December - 1000 Family Service In an emergency dial - 999 with current policy, and ensuring that 22 ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 23

12 MONTH FREEFRE DELIVERY ON CALL 01526 344102 WARRANTY ALLAL UK ORDERS* Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

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38 High Street, Televisions Coningsby, Lincoln, Laptops LN4 4RA 01526 345456 Computers 01526 345355 Spares and Parts CONINGSBY POST OFFICE carries Euros and Repairs & Servicing US Dollars on demand, with other currencies on preorder by 1pm for next day collection. We also now Visit us online today! www.sivillservice.co.uk have PASSPORT FORMS and carry out a CHECKING SERVICE for them. * Standard Delivery in UK is Royal Mail @Sivillservice UK 1st Class Recorded. For International THE BOOKSHOP has a wide range of titles but items standard RM delivery is Royal Mail will order others in if requested to. International Signed For. Sivill Service Can be in stock the next day. We also take in SHOE REPAIRS as an agent for 20a Market Place Tattershall Lincolnshire LN4 4LJ LOCKS + LEATHERS OF HORNCASTLE. They are quick and professional. Telephone: 01526 344102

Sixth Form boarding at one of England’s top State schools

The Robert de Cheney Boarding House is situated in the grounds of The Priory Academy 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.

• Academy and Sixth Form rated • State-of-the-art Sixth Form science facility, outstanding by Ofsted with research laboratories, a planetarium • 99% A-Level pass rate (three subjects) and a debating chamber and 99% GCSE pass rate • Spectacular sports provision including a 60m (5+ A*-C, including English and Maths) indoor sprint track and a 400m synthetic • 94% first or second choice university success outdoor running track, plus excellent field rate in 2013, with 34% of Y13 students athletics facilities obtaining places in the Russell and 1994 • Swimming pool, fitness suite, Groups climbing wall, spinning suite, • Modern, home-from-home boarding dance studio and badminton courts comprising 60 single en-suite study • Stunning residential centre in Normandy bedrooms with internet access • Thriving CCF, DofE and pastoral programmes • Kitchen, dining area and laundry plus a Common Room on each floor • Designated Sixth Form support and pastoral staff to ease the transition from school to university, employment and independence

To arrange a visit or to apply for a place in September 2014, contact Mr Chris Liston (Head of Boarding) 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/boarding 24 ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 25

Abbey Tim Stebbings

School of Friendly, patient tuition Motoring Competitive prices with discounts for block bookings Member of the Good Garage Scheme Longest established - MAXXIS TYRES-LIFETIME Driving School in Diploma in Driver Education -EXHAUSTS Coningsby, Horncastle GUARANTEE and Woodhall Spa Birthday Gift Vouchers - SERVICING - BRAKES - PERFORMANCE PARTS Phone: 01526 353550 • 0778 4648 426 - POLISHES - OILS Email: [email protected] - ONE STOP MOTORIST SHOP SERVICING FOR £55 D&M T WING PLUS PARTS A GUIDE TO 0RELOHWRZEDU¿WWLQJVHUYLFH OPEN MON - SAT 9 - 6 :LWWHU%ULQN 3&77RZEDUVVXSSOLHGDQG¿WWHG • SNOW, SLUSH: Beware on dry strips controlled airport snowplough. The 9DQ3O\OLQLQJDQGH[WUDVHDW¿WWLQJ of road they can be just as slippery, vehicle is fitted with a spray system that SUNDAY 10 - 5 changing lanes can become hazardous, can deliver a metered amount of fluid 6HUYLFHGLVFRXQWDYDLODEOH maintain a slow speed especially when de-icer media of between 20 to 40 gm/ NORTHGATE, SLEAFORD driving over ridges of slush. m2 over widths of 3m,12m and 24m. • SNOW, ICE: Normally the result of 7HO0RELOH 01529 415550 WINTER overnight temperature drops, most Anti-icing is the application of (PDLOGDQGPWRZLQJ#EWLQWHUQHWFRP

dangerous at the thawing out stage, chemicals that not only de-ice, but 8QLW3ULGH&RXUW6OHDIRUG(QWHUSULVH3DUN CANWICK HILL, LINCOLN Black ice is an invisible danger, treat all also remain on a surface and continue your controls delicately, avoid braking to delay the reformation of ice for 6OHDIRUG1**/ 01522 533665 on corners. approximately 6 hours depending on :HEGDQGPWRZLQJFRXN • STRONG WINDS: Beware of exposed temperature and prevents adhesion of MOT FROM £35.00 AT CANWICK BRANCH roads, Try not to move from shelter and ice to make mechanical removal easier. DRIVING overtake in cross winds, unladen vehicles with large surface areas are most at AIRFIELD SNOW CLEARANCE THE BRITISH WINTER IS risk, bad cases can cause the vehicle to VEHICLE wander or even be lifted. The Airfield snow clearance UNPREDICTABLE. SEVERE WEATHER • WINTER SUN: Set lower in the sky in vehicle (ASCV) has been procured to CONDITIONS CAN ARISE WHEN winter, causes a dazzling glare, glasses ensure military runways and aircraft and sun visors are a must, avoid looking operating areas are clear of snow. It is LEAST EXPECTED AND CAN directly into the sun, The effect can fitted with a 5600 mm airport snow be made worse by wet roads, reduce plough. Between the axles is a 914 BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS your speed. mm dia x 4200 mm long broom with a max speed of 900 rpm, adjustable IF YOU’RE ON THE ROAD. OP BLACKTOP SNOW & ICE and road speed related. At the rear of VEHICLES the machine high speed jet blowers riving is a risky business at • A higher gear may be more appropriate RAF Coningsby MT is responsible are fitted which can produce a max the best of times- 9 people to aid the tyres gripping when moving for the snow clearing and ice prevention appropriate velocity of 500 kmh. Ddie on UK roads every day, so off on packed ice. by pre-treating the Main ASP and This jet sweeper was developed as a hazards such as darkness, rain, fog, surrounding areas. MT use two main high-performance device for the rapid ice and dazzling sunshine only add WEATHER CONDITIONS vehicles in order to maintain the disposal of snow on airfields. Clearing, to the danger. Certain precautions need to be runways: sweeping and blowing as a compact If you must drive, make sure you taken when driving in different weathers: unit in one vehicle means high mobility are prepared for the conditions: • RAIN: Potentially dangerous, Spray off LIQUID AIRFIELD DE-ICER and high clearance performance. vehicles, standing water, Aquaplaning, SPRAYER • Only drive if it’s absolutely necessary Use dipped headlights and reduce The Liquid Airfield De-icer Sprayer If you are driving within the camp and don’t be afraid to turn back your speed. (LADS) has been procured to effectively area and see any Snow and Ice Vehicles, if you think the conditions are • HAIL: Unpredictable, can cause and accurately apply liquid chemical please allow them plenty of room. They too treacherous. absolute blindness to drivers, normally de-icer to their airfields. It is self propelled, are carrying out essential Station tasking • Make sure your windows are advisable to pull over and wait, Always equipped with the capacity of 10,000 to keep the airfield and surrounding completely clear before you use dipped headlights, slow down litres and will be fitted with a hydraulically areas clear and safe. start driving. and increase your stopping distance, • If you’re driving to meet someone, let Beware of the road conditions after the them know where you are travelling storm has passed. and when you expect to arrive. • FOG: More frequently in winter, density • You may need to leave as much as 10 may vary, freezing fog is extremely times the normal recommended gap dangerous, reduce your speed, use between you and the car in front. dipped headlights and Fog lights • If you do encounter a skid. Steer into (100m), take extra caution at junctions. it- for example, if the rear of the car is • SNOW, LARGE WET FLAKES: sliding to the right, steer to the right. Slow down and corner gently, Use Do not take your hands off the steering the same tracks and beware of the wheel or stamp your foot on the brakes. snow compacting. • Controls such as brakes, as well as the • SNOW, POWDERY SNOW: Initially steering, accelerator and even gear blows over the road surface, very quickly changing should be operated both fills gaps in road surface, can become smoothly and slowly. sheet ice, drive with extreme caution. 26 ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 27

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THE VIEW FROM THE

on section to replace some of the ALBERT EINSTEIN ONCE SAID THAT THE ONLY REASON TIME manpower lost over the summer. They EXISTS IS SO THAT EVERY THING DOESN’T HAPPEN ALL arrived not a moment too soon as the section upped its capability from AT ONCE. AT CONINGSBY, IT SOMETIMES JUST FEELS LIKE Crash Cat 3A using 6 crew members to EVERYTHING DOES, ESPECIALLY WITH THE AMOUNT THE Crash Cat 4A using 10 crew members making up 2 crews doing 24 hr shifts WING HAS ACHIEVED OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS. each for the month of September to enable Exercise GREEN FLAG. In successful visit from the under the auspices of Eng & Logs addition, section personnel were ‘trappers’ under the belt, the Wg, respect must be paid to the deployed in 3 crews of 4-5 fire-fighters A attention of the wing turned Movements Flight. They were easy to Moreton-in-the-Marsh for Incident squarelys on to the preparation to winners of the Most Tired Looking Response Unit training in the build up hosth our Saudi friends who were due Section at Coningsby award for to Op Fodient, the military provision of tot arrive at the end of August for an much of September yet remained civil fire and rescue services during the intensivei 2 week exercise. Whilst most heroic throughout. National Fire Service strike anticipated ofo the attention was focused on the in September. The training covered TornadosT and Typhoons they were Over the same period the wing civil specialisations such as Mass bringing,b Ops Wing were quietly has had individuals deployed all over Decontamination and Hazardous chippingc away at the facilitation of the place including, Bastion ATC, FOB Material training. After they had received a stream of up to four Saudi C130s JUNO, the Falklands, Exercise PASHTUN the training, Coningsby personnel were arrivinga and departing every day JAGUAR, Cyprus, the Leuchars Air Show, deployed RAF Leeming, Cosford and ini the run up all requiring customs Exercise CAPABLE EAGLE, Exercise Dale Barracks on standby for the period anda immigration, flight planning CHAMELEON, Exercise JOINT WARRIOR of Industrial Action. anda navigation services, loading and and Exercise LIGHTNING FORCE which unloading.u Even though they fall just goes to illustrate the variety of work The Battle of Britain Memorial the wing is undertaking. Flight rounded off another successful season with the Lincolnshire In amongst all this ‘routine’ Lancaster Association day on the business was the excitement of 29th of September. Attended by over deploying the Typhoon force to Akrotiri 3000 people, the event saw all the in response to some Syrian aggression flight’s aircraft take to the sky in an at the end of August just as Exercise impressive celebration of history that SAUDI BRITISH GREEN FLAG was getting we are extremely privileged to have underway. Whilst the Wing HQ was on our doorstep. heavily involved in the planning of the operation, a number of wing personnel The wing continues to lead the deployed in support, most notably one way with sporting achievements of ATC’s civilian assistants, Mr Colin Wylie, including representative target who detached to Akrotiri last-minute to rifle shooting, swimming, boxing, train runway caravan controllers for the football, mountain biking, running arrival of the Typhoon detachment. The plus a host of station team players devil is always in the detail. especially in football which appears to be dominated by Ops Wing. If only The Fire Section finally received crashing MOSS was a competitive OC Ops Wg getting stuck into some Saudi cuisine. a long overdue uplift in manning, sport; I’m sure we would be seeing 5 new LAC’s and 2 CPL’s arrive champions at that too. 30 PEOPLE & ACHIEVEMENTS ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 31 CONINGSBY ROSES MILITARY WIVES CHOIR became the Coningsby ‘Roses’ Military IF YOU ARE WALKING PAST THE CHURCH Wives Choir. OF THE HOLY SPIRIT AT RAF CONINGSBY IN WHAT’S THE WORST QUALITY RAF personnel deploy frequently IN A LEADER? THE EVENING, AND YOU HAPPEN TO HEAR throughout the world and it would Bullish behaviour ANGELIC VOICES FROM WITHIN, PLEASE DO not be possible to do this without NOT BE ALARMED. YOU ARE NOT WITNESS the support provided by families of WHAT WAS THE WORST PIECE OF Servicemen. The pressures put on ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN? TO DIVINE OR SUPERNATURAL EVENTS, Service families can be enormous, You should retire at 55. THE AFTERLIFE IS NOT UPON YOU, AND THE as for months on end they become PADRE IS NOT IN THE SHOWER. YOU ARE single parent families usually hundreds 60 WHAT WAS YOUR BEST MEETING of miles away from their own roots, EVER (AND WHY)? MERELY HEARING THE CONINGSBY ROSES and dealing with emotional loneliness SECOND Numerous Royals, but meeting Clive and isolation. Through singing, the Rowley when he was OC BBMF MILITARY WIVES CHOIR (MWC) IN PRACTICE. Coningsby ‘Roses’ MWC lend mutual INTERVIEW was a turning point for me & being help and support to each other, welcomed onto ‘The Flight’. he choir is a group of wives, support of Gareth Malone. Inspired by providing a sense of belonging Affective Disorder, demonstrating the Other sopranos include daughters, fiancées and what was a very successful programme and camaraderie that would be therapeutic nature of song. Emma Riley, a wonderfully JIM STEWART, BBMF WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE T girlfriends of personnel based and how much was achieved by immediately familiar to their serving When you join the choir as a singer you pure singer. She performs the STALWART, MODEL PASTIME/RELAXATION ACTIVITY? at RAF Coningsby and the local area, the original choir; wives, girlfriends partners. The MWC Foundation will be placed in a group according to tricky soprano solos in Les Misérablesables TRAIN ENTHUSIAST AND Model making. I plan to build as well as women either currently or and female serving members at RAF motto is ‘supporting the women who your vocal range, either soprano (not ‘On My Own’, which she does with a singing along to the Vera Lynn WORLD’S NICEST MAN. another model railway in the not too formerly serving in the RAF. Coningsby started their own choir, the support our troops’, and fun seems very the ‘gangsta’ kind), mezzo-soprano, heart breaking humility and depth of melody), and at the Boston Festival THE MEMORIAL FLIGHT distant future. ‘Coningsby Roses’, in October 2012. much the order of the day, the choir or alto. For some women thinking feeling. Her battle with stage fright of Remembrance, where they OPERATIONS ASSISTANT Choirs are by no means a new Subsequently, the Military Wives Choir borrowing the Service ethic of ‘work of joining the choir, entering such brings an added depth to an already supported the Boston Choral Society KEEPS THE SECRET OF HOW WHAT’S YOUR ALL TIME occurrence around RAF Stations, but Foundation was launched uniting all hard, play hard’. a bubbly bunch of ‘sisters’ could be emotionally laden song, and has performing five songs, one of which TO TAME A SPITFIRE PILOT FAVOURITE BOOK (AND WHY)? they have experienced a surge in the the Wives Choirs from all Stations, Units daunting, so at this stage I think I would grown enormously as a performer the choirs combined for, which was a FIRMLY UNDER WRAPS IN Red Watch by Neil Wallington. His wake of the TV series of the Choir and and Services. The Coningsby Roses The Choir has about 25 members like to introduce just a few of them. with the encouragement of her choir magical experience. Other events the HIS 60 SECOND INTERVIEW. son is currently going through 29 (R) who meet twice a week to practice sisters. Sonia MacArthur sings in her choir have performed at have been Sqn OCU. (as well as socialise, drink tea and eat Angela Sowden, currently gorgeous musical Scottish lilt. She at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? cake). A choir is not a choir however the choir chairperson, sings an joined the choir a few months ago in Horncastle in support of SSAFA, Queuing at Anfield after school to get NAME ONE PERSON YOU’D LIKE until it performs, and the girls perform understated but sweet soprano, from Islay, on the West Scottish coast, turning on the Boston Christmas a Football ticket for my father so he TO HAVE DINNER WITH (AND regularly around the county, lending which she uses to her full advantage where she sang in a Gaelic choir. lights and Tattershall Christmas could go & watch the game. WHY)? their services for charity and public in her solo pieces in ‘Stronger Not a WAG like the other choristers, lights, a charity fundraiser at Heroes Anybody who eats as slow as me, I events, providing a strong bond and Together’, which is a firm choir former serving Tornado mechanic, Bar, alongside the RAF Digby MWC WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE love dining experiences. awareness between RAF Coningsby favourite. As confidence increases, Hayley Fyfe has music in her blood. at the Sleaford Festival, the Armed OF ADVICE YOU COULD and the local community. the opportunity to take the spotlight She her tricky soprano solo in Forces Day at Boston, Help for Heroes GIVE SOMEONE? TELL US ABOUT A TURNING Since July, the Choir’s Musical Director opens, so you could end up singing ‘Wherever You Are’ with accuracy Bear-A-Q and at the Boston LIVES First Follow your instincts. POINT IN YOUR CAREER has been Audrey Wheeler. Audrey is a solo on one of your favourite songs, and beautiful emotion. The pressure Responders Funday. They are even Going to Horncastle Job Centre singer/songwriter who studied music like soloists Sally Forder and Stephanie of singing such a well-known planning ‘flash mobs’ in Lincoln where WHAT’S ON YOUR DESK? in Jan 04 shortly after completing in college and was classically trained as Eustace. Sally most often sings the and tricky solo never affects her they will ‘spontaneously’ perform. A load of paperwork & a cold cup 37 years service & being told they a young girl. Being a choir member has solo on their ‘signature song’, ‘the Rose’. performance, and she never lets her of tea. couldn’t find a job for me & did I helped Audrey battle her longstanding She brings her wonderful blend of audience down. Musical experience is not know anybody at CGY who could issues with agoraphobia and Bipolar warmth and gentleness to the song, necessary to join the choir; you WHO’S YOUR WORK OR help me find one. Thanks to Angie and indeed, to the whole choir. Like Mezzo-soprano, Yvonne Bates, is could be a highly experienced singer PERSONAL HERO/HEROINE? Walsh & the other Civilian Admin many RAF ‘partners’, Sally lives away well known locally for her work in local or X-Factor dropout and still find a When you have stood beside any ladies, I was offered a temporary from the unit so making friends was theatre and charity work for SSAFA. place. We teach you to read music, veteran it is a humbling experience. position in Works Services before difficult until the choir provided a She sings the War Songs (Vera Lynn) we help you develop your skills, and They are all heroes to us. being offered my present role vital link into the RAF community. solo with great emotion, and great you don’t even have to audition! The at BBMF. Steph joined the choir when her diction, using her stage training and only qualities you need are those WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PERFECT husband was posted to Coningsby in excellent stage presence to its fullest. as a military wife (fiancée, girlfriend, DAY AWAY FROM WORK? WHAT WAS YOUR WORST JOB? August and helps as a vocal coach and Adding power to the songs, are altos daughter) you will already have in Completing a DIY task correctly. MT Officer at Mount Pleasant Airfield provider of baked goodies for the choir. Bianca Frost, Sarah Rodgers. Bianca has abundance, a ‘can do’ attitude (or ‘will in the Falkland Islands in 2000/01. She performs one of the solo parts in a phenomenal range and power in try’ at least), a willingness to get out WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST WORK Far too many road traffic incidents; all ‘Rule the World’, to which she brings her voice, but prefers to sing alto. She and make new friends, and a love ACHIEVEMENT? down to bad driving practice. her astounding range and power. sings the solo in the War Songs (Vera of music and fun. The girls meet Attaining the rank of WO in the trade Lynn) Medley, in which she lets her twice a week at the RAF Coningsby of MT Driver. WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT WWII VETERAN personality shine through and brings Church, on Monday and again on YOUR JOB? her own blend of fun, enjoyment and Wednesday, at 1830 for two hours of WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST The interaction with the whole team power to the song. Sarah sings a quiet socialising and singing. They prove PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT? & members of the public, I get a AWARDED BOMBER but pure alto with musical experience time and time again that, as one of Going back to RAF St Athan as tremendous buzz out of showing (you have been rumbled Sarah). Her their signature songs say, they are a Driving Instructor after nearly people around the Flight. solo in the choirs’ cover of Take That’s indeed, Stronger Together. being chopped very early on in COMMAND CLASP ‘Rule The World’ is a wonderfully simple, my career. My Instructor couldn’t WHAT WAS YOUR WORST understated performance, where her The Coningsby Roses MWC believe his eyes. MISTAKE (AND WHAT DID n Friday the 4th Oct WO On arrival he was given a tour of lovely pure notes shine through. can be contacted on coningsby@ YOU LEARN)? D Nicholson (ret’d) visited 3(F) Sqn, to see the sharp end of militarywiveschoirs.org for booking WHAT’S YOUR Thinking I could out walk our Border O RAF Coningsby. He was the RAF today before being given Most recently the choir requests or for other information. FAVOURITE GADGET? Collie (I can’t). accompanied by members of 36 the opportunity to revisit his past performed at the British Legion Poppy The next new intake night is in early House Key (Hetton-Le-Hole) Sqn ATC. WO at BBMF. After a tour of BBMF and Appeal Launch at East Kirby Aviation January, and details of this and of WHAT’S THE QUESTION YOU’D Nicholson served as member of a reminisce over the Lancaster, the Centre, where the choir performed other new intake nights and events WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE MOST LIKE TO HAVE BEEN ASKED 44 Rhodesia Sqn and took part in Station Commander awarded him for 30 minutes to over 200 people can be found via their facebook page OR MOTTO? (AND WHY)? many Lancaster raids over Germany. his Bomber Command Clasp. (and had nearly the whole audience - ConingsbyMilitaryWivesChoir. Lest we forget What’s it like when Parky’s on leave. 32 PEOPLE & ACHIEVEMENTS ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 33 J.W.L. PERKINS & SON Established 1920

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• Hot Pies and Food to go • Bureau de Change on Demand • Groceries, bread, Milk BONFIRE • Fantastic Selection of Papers & Magazines • Wines & Spirits • Passport Check & Send Service NIGHT Post Office, Tattershall he 7th of November heralded Lincolnshire LN4 4LJ the annual station bonfire and Tfireworks display ably organised Tel: 01526 342822 by Survival Equipment Flight with the help of Depth Support Squadron. The fireworks were launched by Cadet Corporal Tyler Spencer who was granted the honour in recognition of his sterling work in raising funds for good causes over the year. Food was laid on by Catering Flight, some of the profits of which,, along with donations raised on the night by collectors will go towards next year’s event. An extra big thank you is owed to 17 (Coningsby) ATC Sqn for helping out with fundraising and crowd control on the night. 34 CHARITY ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 35

of keeping dry feet were scuppered had traversed across the Eastern side when we traversed up a hill to get of the Lake District, over the Yorkshire back to what was the path. All of us Dales and positioned ourselves ended up shin deep in mud and so on the Western side of the North gained the path with the prospect of Yorkshire Moors. We cycled over 85 another day of wet feet ahead. The miles and climbed over 10500ft! This climb itself was on an old mining is undoubtedly the hardest days track and was, in contrast to the cycling any of us had ever done! We previous day, ride-able on the bike, got the bikes in the wagon and drove but it was very hard going, with a back to the pub we were staying proper burn being felt in both the at for a pint of Black Sheep, a pie, a legs and the lungs! The climb up shower and bed! EX REDS from Low Barrowdale to Belt Howe was again a push and a carry, but We were cycling again by provided a fast downhill section to 0655hrs heading up to the base of arrive at the M6 where we stopped the first big climb of the day. It was for lunch at the 25 mile point and 5 clear from looking West that we were hours of riding. in for a very wet day. We began the long climb onto the ridge. Although COAST TO We stopped only for 20 minutes, steep and wet, it was ride-able and enough to down a hot meal, and after a 45 minute climb through then off again, out of the Lake District Arncliffe Wood we were rewarded through Tebay and onwards and with a steep but fast downhill Eastwards towards Ravenstonedale. section in the now pouring rain. Another quick cuppa here (we were From there it was a really good track doing much better for tea today!!) that coasted downhill through the COAST CYCLE before going up into the Yorkshire woods, across fields and onto small Dales, heading towards the high single track roads. It was some of the hese young people are not and crossing the waterfall half way hills at Woofergill. The track became most enjoyable riding we’d had yet, SQN LDR DUNC MASON, OC BBMF achieving their potentials because down the descent meant that our feet very sparse and boggy and in some even though we were knackered AND FORMER RED ARROW SET OUT Tof various negative factors in their wouldn’t be wetter if we were stood in a places, non-existent, and as we and wet! It couldn’t last though and lives which are beyond their control. The swimming pool! approached the river we found that as we approached Wath, we were TO CYCLE FROM COAST TO COAST students the Trust supports often have the bridge that had once crossed it off and pushing the bikes up a very low self-esteem and confidence, they We had about 2.5 hours of daylight had now gone. Going back through steep muddy climb beneath Barkers IN SUPPORT OF THE JON EGGING lack role models, have limited horizons left. The question was, would we make the quagmire and traversing around Crags before finding a more ride-able and struggle with problems such as it down off the mountain before dark? would put us way behind a schedule track. After just under 4 hours we had TRUST. TOGETHER WITH 2 OTHER bullying and in some cases would drop We had just under 4 miles to the bottom we were already behind and it achieved just over 19 miles. When EX-REDS AND EMMA EGGING, out of education to become another of the valley on some of the most was extremely tough going, so we Angus and Sam arrived around statistic of crime or unemployment challenging terrain available for a bike. elected to cross the river before the corner, they had brought with THE WIDOW OF JON, THE TEAM without initiatives such as this. Our decision? We were all comfortable having to push the bikes up a steep them the best bacon baguettes ever with navigating at night and concluded incline to find the line of the woods created. I can honestly say that I have AIMED TO RAISE BOTH FUNDS AND Setting off from St Bees in Cumbria, that if the worst came to the worst we and eventually up to the path that never had a bacon sandwich as good AWARENESS FOR THE CHARITY I was travelling light with only a couple of could leave the bikes and walk off the would take us to Tan Hill Inn, the as that one! We were about to leave waterproof coats, a bivvy bag and first aid hill if necessary. Press on! We managed highest pub in England. We arrived at any semblance of civilisation and get SET UP TO GIVE DISADVANTAGED kit in case we got in trouble and some to ride some of the downhill sections the pub after 10 hours in the saddle properly onto the top of the moors. dry clothes and energy bars. At 1210hrs but a lot of the terrain meant pushing and decided that not only would we It was going to be very exposed. YOUNG PEOPLE THE OPPORTUNITY on the 17th Sep 2013 we dipped our or carrying the bike up the hill and soon have a cuppa here, but a swift beer Soon after leaving the wagon we steep hill down to Grosmont, which Hoods Bay. As we cruised down the TO ACHIEVE THEIR POTENTIAL wheels in the Atlantic and started riding. we were bantering about changing the too, to bolster the spirits. We had were back to pushing up hill again we worked out translated as ‘Big hill at high speed at Fylingthorpe, name of the challenge to the Ex Reds covered just over 48 miles of the 85 up a 400ft incline before picking up Hill’. We hit 47 miles an hour down we were a little disbelieving that THROUGH GAINING ACCESS TO The first hour saw us cycling down Coast to Coast Mountain Bike Push! we wanted to ride that day. Finishing the mining track on top of Urra Moor the hill into the village but realised we were actually going to make it. tiny lanes that belied the terrain that the planned route was going to be a and progressing to the top of Round that the downhill part of Grosmont Remarkably, for the final 10 miles, A VARIETY OF INSPIRATIONAL was to come but as we approached As we began our final descent from tall order. Happily, being the highest Hill in thick fog with a strong breeze was not the only hill. We started up the weather had cleared and as we Ennerdale Water the peaks of Lank Rigg Rossett Pike into Langdale Fell we again pub in England meant that we were in our faces and driving rain. After a a 25% gradient which set the scene reached the North Sea and with ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCING and Seatalian were rising into the clouds found ourselves carrying the bikes or now going downhill. Fast. We hit further 2 hours up on the moors, we for no less than 4 25% climbs in the enormous grins, dipped our wheels THE THRILL OF FLIGHT. to remind us that it wouldn’t be long negotiating steep descents. I went over 43 mph on the stretch between found the support wagon and lunch next hour, of differing distances. As in the water, the sun shone down before we started climbing and we left the handlebars again for good measure Tan Hill Inn and Reeth, covering the at about 1300hrs. The afternoon took we got to the bottom of the hill at and there was hardly a cloud in the metalled road and joined a decent and everyone else had a tumble at some distance of 12 miles in just over 20 us across Danby High Moor and over Sleights, we knew this was the last the sky. After some hugs, pictures track that hugged the side of the lake. point on this difficult descent. We entered minutes! This was to be the fastest Glaisdale Moor and onto Glaisdale climb, although it was a big one and having stowed the bikes away, We weren’t to know at this point that this the valley of Langdale Fell in twilight, stretch of the whole ride! Because Rigg and down into Glaisdale itself. to the top of Ugglebarnby Moor. we had a few pints, and sat in the was the last decent track we would see but in the distance we could see a very we had been going so long, the Morale was building now as we A mile and half, starting at 25% sun. We had cycled over 175 miles, until it got dark! welcome sight. The support wagon. And GPS ran out of batteries at this point knew we had the worst behind us gradient and then easing off toward climbed 21,500ft and achieved it in that meant our first cup of tea in what and we had to follow the support and were nearly there. We had been the top to a mere 15%!! 52 hours almost to the minute! The Lakes had seen a lot of rain in was now nearly 8 hours of riding! We wagon for navigation along the small going 7 hours and were 38 miles HELP US REACH OUR £10,000 the preceding days and it looked like the cycled into Ambleside at 2045hrs having tarmacked roads to Brompton. On in, but with mostly metalled roads Once gathered at the top TARGET BY SPONSORING US AT: hills would be throwing most of it at us! been cycling for 8 hours 40 minutes. A arriving at Brompton at 2030hrs we ahead, the going should get better. with a new found energy in our http://www.justgiving.com/ We had been going just over 2 hours bath, a bite to eat, a pint and then to bed had spent 14 hours in the saddle and We started down the incredibly legs for the last 7 miles to Robin teams/ExRedC2C and had covered just 17 miles when we as we knew that day 2 was going to be started to climb Black Sail Pass it was even bigger! Everyone was delighted evident that we wouldn’t be cycling for when I told them that they were to be dŚĞŐƌĞĂƚĞƐƚŐŝŌŽĨĂůůŝƐƚŚĞŐŝŌŽĨ>/&͙͘͘ a while, we’d be carrying the bikes and ready to go at 0615 the following day and the question going through my mind that we were starting with a big ascent! was whether we’d get off the mountains tĞĂƌĞŚĞƌĞĨŽƌzKhǁŝůůLJŽƵďĞŚĞƌĞĨŽƌh^͍ before it was dark! The terrain was so Everyone was out and ready to go at steep and slippy that we had to set 0615 (even Emma…). The support team up a shuttle run to carry the bikes to had cleaned the bikes the night before WůĞĂƐĞƐƵƉƉŽƌƚLJŽƵƌůŽĐĂůŝƌŵďƵůĂŶĐĞ͘ the top of the hill. It was awkward and and had everything looking like new. very tiring, but we got to the saddle None of us had slept particularly well, the just under an hour later and started the boys all having woken about 4ish. dŚĞ>ŝŶĐƐΘEŽƩƐŝƌŵďƵůĂŶĐĞ steep and difficult descent into Wasdale. It was going down the wet stony path We cycled out of Ambleside down that I went over my handlebars not only the side of Windermere on a lovely once, but twice (careless!) and the other morning with mist lying over the lake boys fell too. Nobody was badly hurt but no wind, and happily no rain! We though, just a few scratches and bruises stopped at Troutbeck for breakfast before and we picked ourselves up and carried setting off up Moor Head. We couldn’t on. By this time we all had sodden feet find the path initially and any thought www.ambucopter.org.uk - [email protected] - 01522 548469 Registered Charity No. 1017501 36 FORCE DEVELOPMENT ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 37

reception being held by the British Ambassador to Luxembourg, Alice Walpole. On arrival, wearing No 1 uniforms, at the Ambassador’s Residence we were given our duties, which largely involved the welcoming and ushering of the guests which included two Ambassadors, the UK Defence Attaché, four RAF Air Marshalls, two RAF Air Vice Marshalls and senior members of the Luxembourg Armed Forces. After our duties had been satisfied we were invited to enjoy a glass of champagne and had an opportunity to chat with representatives from RAFA Luxembourg and other branches of the Armed Forces who were also in attendance, which was really interesting. As the reception drew to a close, the SEngO later that her daughters used to ‘socialise’ in described the panic he felt when which she thought we might enjoy if he looked up to see the British we wanted to continue our evening Ambassador stood in group of 7 SACs (interestingly, when asked by one all sipping champagne and in deep of the SACs if her daughters would conversation; he was less reassured be out that evening, she informed when he later found out she had the group that ALL of her daughters been suggesting a number of venues were away for the weekend). However, she was spot on with her recommendations of where a visitor to Luxembourg may want to visit, or so I’m told.

On Saturday morning SAC Liam Atkinson, who was entrusted with ensuring the party was awake in time, spent most of the night worrying about sleeping in but luckily overcame this and made sure we were all ready. We travelled by coach to join the VIPs, RAFA members and EXERCISE local dignitaries at a wreath laying ceremony in Hollerich where six RAF byb theh Marscherwaldh ld town bband.d personnel were buried, including Despite some problems with the the crew of a Stirling Bomber who SNCOs struggling to remember which died when their aircraft crashed near was left and which was right, the Koerich after being hit by German event was a huge success and was flak. This event involved the RAF extremely well received by the local Coningsby contingent undertaking a community. At a reception in the local LUXEMBOURG range of duties from wreath handling, community centre the families of the to me that it was a place that my Great where SAC Matt Griffin kept getting Marscherwald citizens involved in Grandfather would likely have marched mixed up with his VIPs and giving rescuing, nursing and concealing the through on his way to Passchendaele and the wrong wreath to the wrong 4 servicemen gave an inspiring account I was grateful for the opportunity to stand Star, whilst the remainder of the party of what happened and presented in the place he might have been. In fact acted as Guard of Honour; the SEngO an information board that was to be one of our party, Sgt Phil Lincoln, was able was later heard complaining about placed at the crash site of the Halifax. to find and photograph the inscription to how stiff he had got holding the We returned to the hotel in MEMORIAL his grandfather. salute for the full 2 Minutes Silence. Luxembourg where we prepared BY SGT T. HALFORD ravelling by minibus via the Eurostar We then proceeded to Marscherwald for the RAFA Wings Ball. When we to Luxembourg, we took the After paying our respects at the to a site where an RAF Halifax bomber arrived we were seated at tables ON 17 OCTOBER, MYSELF AND 15 OTHER Topportunity to visit Ypres and to pay memorial itself, two of our party had was shot down in August 1943. Three with an interesting variety of people REPRESENTATIVES FROM RAF CONINGSBY’S our respects at the Menin Gate Memorial. prepared a short brief about Menin Gate crew members were killed and four all of whom made the Coningsby We arrived in Ypres in the early evening, and its historical significance; we then survived of which one was captured contingent very welcome. Members TYPHOON MAINTENANCE FACILITY AND MISSION checked into our hotel where the SEngO attended a Last Post ceremony. The Last by German forces and the remaining of our group were again involved in SUPPORT CENTRE WENT TO LUXEMBOURG TO and Flt Sgt discovered that whilst there Post ceremonies are held daily at 8pm three were hidden by the local fundraising by selling raffle tickets all in REMEMBER BRITISH AND COMMONWEALTH were certainly two beds in the twin by the citizens of Ypres and are ordinarily population and eventually returned aid of RAFA raising an impressive 4000 SERVICEMEN WHO DIED IN THE GRAND DUCHY room they were sharing, the room was performed by the local Fire Brigade but home. Because of its remote location, Euros. Although most of our party so small they could not actually push on this occasion they were accompanied only a small group could attend the didn’t partake, we certainly witnessed DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR. them apart; the SEngO insisted FS Jeffery by a parade of 40 members of the British crash site itself but again members some dancing and it was a fitting end had the extra pillow to cuddle to prevent Army Intelligence Corps. It was again of the RAF contingent provided to a rewarding weekend. any awkward encounters. amazing to see approximately 300 people the Honour Guard. At the crash The trip to Luxembourg was gather to watch this daily event with site, wreaths were laid and a small deemed a resounding success by all The whole party then headed school parties from the UK, Holland and ceremony was held. the party; from the poignant trip to the straight out to explore Ypres. The Menin France in the crowd. After the visit to the crash site, Menin Gate and Flanders Museum, to Gate Memorial in Ypres is dedicated to the full party moved to the town of hearing of the often forgotten heroism the British and Commonwealth soldiers of The next morning before we Marscherwald where the community of the Resistance who risked the lives World War I whose graves are not known. continued on our journey to Luxembourg had gathered again for a memorial of themselves and also their families to The memorial marks the beginning of we went to the ‘In Flanders Museum’ event not only for the downed RAF help save the lives of RAF airmen. The one of the main roads that led Allied where we saw WWI photographs, airman but also those locals killed people of Luxembourg have clearly soldiers to the front line. uniforms and some of their personal or forced into military service by the not forgotten WWII and the sacrifices stories. It was a fascinating and worthwhile Nazi occupiers. This was a larger made to free them from occupation, I was unsure what it would be like visit. Sadly we could not stay for long as event with more wreath laying at but it was a real honour for the RAF before we got there, but walking through we had to continue on our journey. the memorial in Marscherwald and Coningsby party to be able to honour the Hall of Memories, I was staggered by culminated in the Coningsby party the fallen of both the RAF but also the number of names on the walls (over We arrived in Luxembourg in late parading and Marching Past the population of a beautiful but brave 54,000 I later discovered). It occurred afternoon and got ready to go to the Memorial and VIPs accompanied little country. 38 SPORT ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 39

From Rugby League to Union Cup, the RAF 5-a-side ‘Festival of RAF Coningsby was integral in keeping Football’ trophy before beating RAF grass roots rugby alive across the Lossiemouth in the RAF Challenge board with some exceptional talent Cup final 2-0; which was held at RAF showing through. The individuals Cranwell in May 13. above have shown a fantastic work ethic and willingness to push that little An unprecedented 4 trophy haul harder than the rest which has reaped was a great reward for all the efforts much deserved rewards. Coningsby’s players and staff put into the season. Rugby Team hope to build on this RAF Coningsby continues to supply success in the coming season and players for both the RAF U23 Mens and hope to regain the RAF RL Inter Station RAF Senior Mens Football sides with Cup lost this year for the first time in 3 SAC Jack Debnam also representing years. Rugby Union wise we hope to the Combined Services team. see more new players turn out for the Station and help get Coningsby back All of these sporting started in Jan 13, seeing them progress to the forefront of rugby in the RAF. achievements wouldn’t be possible through considerable strength and without the continued support of conditioning programmes to ensure What a season for the RAF sporting personnel’s Line Managers. a high level of physical preparedness. Coningsby Football Club (FC). RAF The release of these players is key to WO Damian Clayton (MT) had the Coningsby FC entered 4 competitions providing an inducement to physical prestigious honour of coaching the GB during the calendar year season and fitness which in turn contributes to 2013 Armed Forces World Cup side. won them all. military effectiveness by encouraging personal qualities such as courage, Cpl John Ledger and SAC Adam The hard work which lead to this resilience and esprit de corps. Flintham were selected to represent success started way back in July 12 as the RAF Senior side at Rugby League. the squad began pre-season training. On a personal note I’d like to STATION This saw them play in all Combined The manager, Cpl Graeme Hodgson thank all of the staff within MT Flight Services fixtures; beating the Navy (LS), put a lot of hard work into getting and especially WO Clayton who at Cranwell on a wet Sept evening. the Station players comfortable on continues to provide a first class travel Unfortunately it was not enough to the ball, he also ensured the hard service to all of our teams and sporting stop the Army taking the trophy for miles were put in to bring the players representatives. Without Mr Clayton SPORTING 2013. SAC Daniel Gibbons represented fitness levels up to scratch. This was and his staff’s support many of our the RAF U23’s and stood in at short fundamental in maintaining the ‘high fixtures would be unable to take place. notice to help out the RAF Veterans tempo’ game plan used throughout As incumbent in the role of Officer presidents XV at Kersteven. This was a the season. Commanding Physical Education I’d bit of a step up for the youngster who like to thank MT Flight on behalf of ROUNDUP was not used to playing with such After an unconvincing start; the entire sporting fraternity here at greats of the rugby field. Age and an away defeat, a home draw and Coningsby for their continued support treachery will always be the undoing then a 5-0 away win at local rivals and faultless service. BY FLT LT CHRIS WILLIAMS Championships. All 4 of the above the RAF Snowboard Squad and the The London Marathon saw Cpl of youth and speed. Waddington, the team embarked on mentioned players have once again chances of representation going Bailey competing again for the RAF and an impressive 10 game unbeaten run been selected for their representative beyond Station level is high. There is finishing in 2:40, Sgt Plant made his debut SAC’s Fraser Welsh and Sam in all competitions, a feat that was set ALTHOUGH SPORTS ARE NORMALLY ALL ABOUT teams; Lee and Maddock also hope that Coningsby personnel will at Marathon Distance with a credible 3:01. Smith were selected to represent to continue. SEASONS RATHER THAN YEARS; THE FESTIVE managing the RAF and Development be selected to represent the RAF the RAF Hawks U20 XV and also PERIOD IS ALWAYS A GREAT TIME TO TAKE STOCK squads respectively. at the forthcoming inter-Service Coningsby also competed in the represented the RAF Eagles This excellent run of form competition and results dependant; Lincolnshire Road Racing League (LSRRL), Divisional side. enabled progression through the RAF AND LOOK BACK AT THE PAST 12 MONTHS. RAF Coningsby dispatched a they may be selected to represent with trophies for 1st and 3rd Senior Male Challenge Cup group stages; the teamm AS THE STATION TRAINING OFFICER (WHICH strong continent to the annual Ski the Combined Services at the 2014 (Sgt Plant and SAC Gambrill) 1st Senior Coningsby also had SAC’s Jason amassed an incredible 21 goals whilst ENCAPSULATES THE TRADITIONAL OFFICER and Snowboard Championships in British Snowboard Championships. Lady (Cpl Barnes) and 6th Male Vet A (40- Phillps, John Watt, Joe Gray and Ryan conceding only 2 over 3 games to Austria, Jan 13. From those participants 49) Sgt Willey adding to the haul for ’13. Batchelor selected for the RAF Eagles ensure passage through to the RAF COMMANDING PHYSICAL EDUCATION ROLE) I’D Cpl Rathbone and SAC Mather The 2014 Ski and Snowboard Coningsby runners also compete Divisional rugby XV side. This team Challenge Cup Quarter final. LIKE TO SHARE WITH YOU A ‘SNAPSHOT LOOK’ AT were selected to represent the RAF Championships will once again host at various RAF and Civilian races, notably is made up of the best players from RAF CONINGSBY’S SPORTING CLUB HIGHLIGHTS at the inter-Service competition in the Australian Defence Force as they the Benson 7 mile RR, Honington 10k and Coningsby, Cranwell, Digby, Scampton, The RAF Challenge Cup Quarter Meribel. It was their first year at the return to Saalbach Hinterglem to Henlow 10 mile RR. Cpl Ian Bailey finished Honington and Waddington; players Final win over RAF Brampton booked FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR OF 2013. inter-Services competition and they participate in the RAF competitions, 2nd overall at the Honington 10 and SAC attend a 2 day training camp before Coningsby a place in the Semi-Final, played a key role in point scoring for rather than to Tignes with the Royal Sam Mitchell won the Henlow 10 in 2013 being selected to play at Halton over a away, at RAF Leeming. A last minute TRIIIIKEEE! An all familiar B Doubles event at the National all 3 events: Boardercross, Slalom and Navy. For those Coningsby personnel with an impressive finish time of 54mins. 3 day event which establishes the best winner from SAC Green sent the sound that’s been heard at Championships. Together with FS Slopestyle. For some the competition who are participating at the 2014 divisional team in the RAF. Out of the Station through to the RAF FA’s S numerous bowling centres Quilter WO Maddock was a member element has not stopped; SAC Mather Championships we now have RAF Coningsby running Club 25 man squad Coningsby provided 6 prestigious Final. across the UK and Europe as of the Development Squad that won represented Coningsby at the Indoor the opportunity for an additional welcomes runners of all abilities and personnel who played in all 5 matches. bowlers from Coningsby plight both sport and the divisional awards Championships at Castleford in Sep international competition which will distances from 5k to Ultra Marathon. The Club secured their passion in representation of as well as a haul of medals at the UK 13 where he was placed 1st at the make for a tougher competition and The RAF Eagles side is the Lincolnshire Services both the station, the RAF and in Corporate Games in July. Slopestyle event and is a frequent raise the competitive standards of both This year the RAF Coningsby Rugby managed and coached by Association Football League some cases their country. 2013 has winner of the North v South RAF skiers and riders alike. Club has seen 7 of its players represent Sgt Kev Wynn (QCIT) who (LSAFL) Division 1 title, seen Chf Tech Tony Lee (CAMO) The Station team have figured Snowboarding Super League. the RAF at all levels and 2 at Combined is also the coach of the the LSAFL League and Cpl Chris Jaap (GSS), represent well in a number of events; not least RAF Coningsby’s Running Club Services level and 2 representing the GB Coningsby Panthers XV. both the RAF and Wales; whilst WO 2nd handicap and 1st scratch in RAF Coningsby has a large has had an excellent sporting year, the Armed Forces World Cup side. Paul Maddock (Typh IPT) and FS the RAF Fours as well as a number snowboarding contingent; the North team “cleaned up” in the Lincolnshire Chris Quilter (GEF), have been part of successes at this years 50th RAF v South competitions, held monthly Services Cross Country League SAC Jordon Andrade was selected of the RAF’s Development Squad; Championships with Maddock & at various Snowzones, are well (LSCCL), The Mens A, B and C teams to play Rugby League for the RAF Senior competing as well as nurturing the Quilter winning the doubles and Lee represented by Coningsby personnel. were 1st in the respective team team and has also been selected for the junior members on route to the full and Jaap finishing 2nd in the team These events are organised by the RAF comps and 1st Male LSSCL, 2nd Vet B Combined Services side; culminating in his RAF squad. event. In all the events attended scoring Snowboarding Events Co-ordinator, (50 plus) 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 8th Senior selection for the GB Armed Forces World has been high, with all Coningsby SAC Mather, and the events are open male (18-39). Cup side along with Cpl Nathan Parker. In highlighting the major bowlers hitting in excess, or very close to all riders within the RAF. The event Both players established themselves as achievements of the Coningsby side to, 200 averages; the highest of the lot has the aim of promoting year-round The RAF XC Champs at Halton RAF 1st XIII players and warranted their both Chf Tech Lee and Cpl Jaap were being Tony Lee’s 233 at the European interest in the sport whilst improving saw Coningsby collect more silverware selection for this fantastic event. The part of the RAF Red Team that won Corporate Championships that saw the standard of riding whilst providing with SAC Sam Mitchell the 2013 RAF World Cup was hosted by Combined the highly contested Composite Team him finish 7th in the rankings of the an opportunity to push individuals XC Champ and the team scooping the Services Rugby League and was played event at this RAF Championships 400+ bowlers that took part. to their limits in a competitive and Inter-Station trophy for the first time at Colchester Garrison in early Jul 13. whilst finishing 6th at the European controlled environment. since 1986. Inter Service XC saw 2 of SAC(T) Andrade’s performance against Corporate Championships. In addition In 2014 the squad look to Coningsby team runners representing Australia is worthy of special mention, to this WO Maddock formed one of maintain and surpass the achievements As we look ahead to the winter the RAF, with SAC Mitchell 2nd and demonstrating exceptional courage and a development squad pairing that of 2013; indeed the season has already season Coningsby will once again Cpl Bailey 15th Overall, aiding the RAF playing ability. Both players commitment in March this year won the Division started well with successes at the RAF have excellent representation within Team to an IS win. and determination to make the squad 40 SPORT ISSUE 4 2013 COMPETITION onetoone 41

especially after Eastern began with of the game but the Army team posed a 2-1 loss to a very fit Royal Marines side. constant threat from breakaways. It was Crusade started with a bang, leaving tense stuff, as any mistake could cost the the Royal Navy all at sea with a 12-1 team dearly. They conceded against the thumping. Both teams went from run of play, but remained calm and kept strength to strength, with Eastern probing at the Army defence, keeping play winning the remainder of their games, mostly in the opposition zone. Always and Crusade winning all save a 2-2 ones for drama, it was 2 late goals from draw against the Army Allstars. This Sgt McDonald (RAF Waddington) that left both teams top of their respective sealed the victory and RAF Crusade were groups as hoped for. Most importantly crowned Tri-Service 2013 champions! they were in separate quarter finals, RAF Eastern eventually come 4th overall meaning they could only meet in the meaning the trip back down the A1 could final. The way both teams were playing be conducted with heads held high after a a final playoff was a likely bet. fantastic club achievement.

RAF Eastern took on an RAF Ice Hockey is a growing recognised Scotland team not short on talent, sport in the RAF, and players of all levels are but unfortunately, short on players. welcome. If anyone with previous Ice or The pace and intensity of Eastern’s Roller Hockey experience, or feels they are play proved too much for the Scottish a strong skater, get in touch. team who conceded 3 goals to CPL Guscott x8156 or SAC Dunn x7239 one. RAF Crusade faced the newest addition to Tri Service Ice Hockey, the Sappers. Possibly the worst RAF EASTERN RESULTS: performance of the tournament from GROUP: Crusade left the team 1 goal down Lost to Marines 2-1 with a minute left to play. Coach, Sgt Beat Army Chieftains 13-1 ICE HOCKEY Marcus Barnes (RAF Marham), made Beat RAF Bluewings 2-1 the decision to pull the goalie, leaving Beat Army Sappers 4-1 us with and empty net, but with one PLAYOFFS: SPOT THE DIFFERENCE extra man on the ice. Good possession ¼ FINAL: ONCE AGAIN f you think you know how many prestigious prize of a limited edition TRI-SERVICE was key with this strategy, and all the Beat RAF Scotland 3-1 differences there are, email the Royal Air Force hat. Up for grabs this play was contained to the Sappers SEMI FINAL: CONINGSBY’S I editior of the OnetoOne magazine time is a fabulous Royal Air Force end of the rink. With the boisterous Lost to CCS Chieftains 4-1 (CON-GMB-121 Editor) stating the Official Calendar*. All competition crowd on the edge of their seats, 3RD PLACE MATCH: AWARD WINNING number you can spot. Be warned, entries must be received before CHAMPIONSHIPS the equalizing goal came with just Lost to Army Allstars 6-5 PHOTOGRAPHIC some of them are pretty subtle. Monday 20th of January 2014. 15 seconds left on the clock. It was now down to penalty shots to decide RAF CRUSADE RESULTS: SECTION HAVE Mr Les Anderson of the Visiting *No, not a 2013 calendar BY CPL KARL ELLIOTT England. Drawing from Coningsby, the tie. Crusade were able to seal the GROUP: Aircraft Handling Flight was the lucky you cynics. An actual 2014 version Waddington, Wittering, Marham victory with 2 penalty shots to 1. Beat Navy general service 12-1 ALTERED ONE OF winner of the last competition. He featuring all the latest and greatest and a number other smaller bases Beat RAF Scotland 6-1 was thoroughly overwhelmed by his aircraft (and Tornado). ALL THE ICE HOCKEY in between, the team have evolved So on the semi finals. Eastern Beat CCS Chieftains 2-1 THESE IMAGES. TEAMS WITHIN THE from the perennial whippings boys faced CCS Army Chieftains. Crusade Drew with Army Allstars 2-2 ARMY, NAVY AND of Services Ice Hockey, to emerge as faced the Army Allstars (who they Beat RAF Cosford 13-0 regular trophy winners and a well- failed to beat in the group stages). PLAYOFFS: RAF CONVERGED ON respected developer of new players. Crusade had really zeroed in their ¼ FINAL: SHEFFIELD FOR THE shooting by this point and swept Drew 2-2 with Army Sappers. ANNUAL TRI SERVICE When the trawl for available the opposition aside 6-2 to make the Won shootout 2-1 players took place, it soon became final. Eastern dominated CCS Army SEMI FINAL: CHAMPIONSHIPS. apparent that the club would be in the Chieftains, but mistakes cost them Beat Army Allstars 6-1 DUE TO THE CURRENT luxurious position of having more than dearly, and they went down 4-1. The FINAL: HIGH OPERATIONAL enough players to enter 2 teams. The final score was not a true reflection of Beat CCS Chieftains A 2-1 problem faced by management now the game at all but the dream of an all TEMPO, LESS TEAMS was who would make the ‘A team’. This RAF Eastern Crusade final was over. TOOK PART THAN proved very difficult due to the calibre NORMAL, BUT 11 of players available, most of whom RAF Crusade focused their were easily good enough to represent thoughts towards their Cup final SQUADS STILL the first team. The decision was made opponents, the CCS Army Chieftains. MANAGED TO TAKE to put out 2 evenly matched teams Crusade had already beaten them 2-1 TO THE ICE. that could both be competitive. One in the group stages, but were painfully would be called RAF Eastern, the other aware that they had been outplayed he standard was high with RAF Crusade. Airman 1st Class Anthony in that game and had benefitted some teams boasting semi- Poissant (RAF Lakenheath) captained from some dubious refereeing T pro English National Ice Eastern, Corporal Karl Elliott (RAF decisions. Knowing that Army teams Hockey League players amongst Coningsby) captained Crusade. There are extremely strong and fit, the their ranks. The format involved was a concern that we were ‘watering players knew they had to dig deep. A teams representing Corps, Bases, down’ what could be a very strong first promising start put them in control Units or regions from of each of team, but we agreed that team spirit the three Services playing each was more important, and we went other in a preliminary league ahead regardless, hoping to meet each competition. League positions other in the final. then determined who competed in a playoff for the Cup. The RAF The first day saw all the teams managed to field 5 teams this split into 2 groups. RAF Eastern and RAF year: RAF Scotland (a combination Crusade were fortunate to avoid each of the Lossiemouth Jets and the other in the group league. Each team Leuchars Knights), the Benson and set about their separate campaigns, Brize Bluewings, RAF Cosford Stars with a shared goal of bringing the and RAF Eastern Crusade (who Cup back to Peterborough. After were large enough to enter 2 full an explanation of how the group teams). positioning effected playoff match ups, it was soon evident that the best RAF Eastern Crusade are a club way for Eastern and Crusade to avoid based at Peterborough Ice Rink and each other was to simply win their represent all RAF bases in the East of respective groups. Simple! Not quite, 42 ISSUE 4 2013 onetoone 43

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