Winter 2015 ASCENT |INAVIATIONALIFETIME |EXERCISECAROUSEL World W ycombe The Magazine of RAF High ofRAFHigh The Magazine Wycombe World Winter 2017 GORDON’S SCHOOL “OUTSTANDING” Ofsted

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The Magazine of RAF High Wycombe Winter 2017

Winter 2015 Winter Wycombe Station Commander’s Foreword World World Group Captain Rob Woods OBE MA BEng (Hons) RAF

a 24-hour football match, a ‘thank you’ – you should London to Brighton cycle be justifiably proud. ride for the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAFA Wings As we approach the end of Appeal in September and one year and look forward the High Wycombe Ladies to the start of another, one Choir performance at ‘Sing that will be particularly it Out!’ in October. Finally, in significant for the Royal Air ASCENT | A LIFETIME IN AVIATION | EXERCISE CAROUSEL November, I accompanied Force, I would like to reiterate other personnel from across my vision for the Station: Editorial Team the unit to Kings Cross Ready, Balanced, Smarter. At OIC: Plt Off Adam South Ext 6748 y the time you receive Station to support the RBL a time when it is traditional Editor: Sophie Sheldon Ext 5414 this edition of Wycombe Poppy Day where we raised to reflect and make new Deputy Editor: WO Claire Old Ext 5251 Sports Editor: Cpl Daniel Phillips Ext 4526 BWorld, the countdown over £22,500, the most at resolutions, I would ask you Distribution: Sgt Steve Monks Ext 4172 to Christmas will be well any location in London. all to take some time to re- Mailbox: HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ underway. Like me, I’m sure Other significant events evaluate what these words mod.gov.uk you’ll be looking forward to have included an Annual mean to you and how you the festivities and spending Reception on possibly could take positive steps in Distribution Team Sgt Steve Monks Ext 4172 time with family and friends. the finest evening of the respect of all three of them. Cpl Julian Frost Ext 3337 But before you do, it’s summer, the Naphill Music Cpl Adrian Catnach Ext 4071 worth reflecting on what Festival on the Crick, Battle I will conclude by thanking SAC Sebastian Marziano Ext 6311 has gone on here at RAF of Britain commemorations, each and every one of you for High Wycombe during the fireworks night and of your service, determination All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format summer and the autumn – course most recently the and tenacity during 2017. with separate JPEG images. there’s been much to enjoy, Remembrance Parades It has been busy year, both Designer: Holly Daniels celebrate, as well as reflect in High Wycombe and at home and in support of Tel: (01536) 526671 on. As ever, this edition elsewhere in the local area. operations across the globe. Email: [email protected] is packed full of articles Some of these activities are Next year will bring a new set from a wide spectrum of covered in more detail here, of tasks but, by continuing to Advertising: Tammie Ridler people across the Station. but they were all successful work together, I am confident Tel: (01536) 526667 Email: [email protected] because of the contribution that the people at RAF High Charity fundraising has of some remarkably Wycombe will be capable Published by: Lance Publishing Ltd been at the forefront over dedicated individuals. I of meeting the challenges 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, the past few months, with would like offer a very public and achieving success. Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: (01536) 512624 Fax: (01536) 515481 Email: [email protected] Editor’s Welcome www.lancepublishing.co.uk Printed By: Lance Print Ltd Sophie Sheldon Tel: (01733) 390 564 Capelin-Jones, who provides editorial involvement with his first reflections here. this publication, I would Submission like to say thank you to I would like to draw the entire Wycombe World Deadline... particular attention to this Team, to Lance Publishing All articles for the SPRING edition’s feature piece, ‘A for designing each issue ISSUE 2018 Edition to be sent Lifetime in Aviation’, which so splendidly, and to you to the Editor no later than 6th chronicles the World War II the readers for taking February 2018 to HWY-Editor flying history of John Hickox, the time to contribute WycombeWorld. Please send files elcome to the a navigator in Bomber - It has been a privilege as word documents with separate Winter Edition of Command. Recounted by reading your stories. photos in the Jpeg format with W Wycombe World. his nephew, Bob Hickox, I wish the new Editor, Cpl highest possible quality to HWY- who works at Air Command, Daniel Phillips, and my EditorWycombeWorld@mod. With RAF 100 on the horizon, it is a fascinating read Deputy Editor, WO Claire gov.uk. this edition commemorates - Look out for a further Old, all the very best, and past achievements and looks instalment in a future issue. hope that you will support forward to future challenges. them in keeping your We also welcome the new As I leave to join another Station Magazine as lively Station Padre, Revd Kevin base, after over a year of and as engaging as ever.

WW: 4 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 Contents Winter 2017

10 14

16 18 24 6 Padre’s Pause 18 A Lifetime in Aviation

10 RAF Benevolent Fund 24 RAF Rowing Club 11 Ascent 25 CO’s Cup Report 30 14 Wings Appeal 26 Princes Risborough School Awarded Grant 16 Dental Centre Update 30 Exercise Carousel 16 Ladies Choir

17 Charity Wi-Fi Project

The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander.

WW: 5 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 Padre’s Pause

I’ve been spending much that our lives don’t have an immigrant on the time meditating on Lego seatbelts. Be it bereavement, run, attempting to avoid © Shutterstock / Tanuha2001 / © Shutterstock Batman recently – my son, estrangement, illness, issues capture by the authorities, who’s just turned four, loves with relationships, finances, and who spent his life as a it. His birthday party was workmates, addictions, the political activist against the Lego-Batman themed, and list is endless. occupying establishment. he insisted on a Batman And it’s His story that we cake. Which is fine by me, And yet, as Batman celebrate at Christmas. Jesus as I got to build the Lego wistfully looks at the family wasn’t born with all the Batmobile and call myself photographs in Wayne advantages of royalty; he ‘Batdad’ a lot. Which is cool. Manor, he mutters: “Hey, wasn’t born into a life with Mom. Hey, Dad. I... I saved seatbelts. Yet he overcame all I won’t put any spoilers in the city again today. I those disadvantages to serve and tell you what happens think you would’ve been those around him and to (although I’m sure you really proud.” become a seatbelt for all. can guess). But there is one point when Batman There is always the I pray that you’ll have and Robin get into the opportunity to overcome the time to reflect on Batmobile together for the the hurdles that life throws the Christmas story this first time. And it’s cosy. at us. And, as Batman finds, season, to watch the Lego it’s the relationships with Batman movie, and know Robin: Why did you those closest to us which that while life doesn’t give

build this thing with only often provide the seatbelts you seatbelts, God does. / Primsky © Shutterstock one seat? for life. And, as a backstop, Sometimes, if nothing else, in there are always those of the form of a Padre. Batman: Uh, ‘cause last us from the Station Welfare time I checked, I only have Team willing to give you the Batman one butt. support for any situation. To be completely honest, Padre And when Robin enquires one of the main reasons I Kevin Capelin-Jones. where the seatbelts are, love the movie is that Robin Batman replies in sardonic spends the whole film calling tone: “Life doesn’t give you Batman ‘Padre’. In reality we seatbelts.” Which is true. are one and the same! You And something we can can call me Batman. probably all agree with from our experiences of life. There was an illegitimate child, born in inappropriate Looking back from year to lodgings that would have year, there are frequently failed any Social Services things that make us feel inspection, who became © Shutterstock / Ekaterina_Minaeva© Shutterstock Christmas Services in the Station Church: Thursday 14th December, 16:00-17:00. Station Carol Service with Mulled Wine & Mince Pies. Saturday 23rd December, 16:00-16:45. Christingle and Crib Service. Saturday 23rd December, 23:30-00:15. Christmas Eve Midnight Communion.

Everyone welcome. © Shutterstock / Guschenkova © Shutterstock

WW: 6 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017

The team from High Wycombe who cycled from London to Brighton for the RAF Benevolent Fund in September 2017. Led by Fg Off Gareth Davies from BSW, the team were Laura, Andrea, Gareth, Erin, Courtney, Mark and Tom. RAF Benevolent Fund

s the year draws to a close, Air Vice-Marshal ADavid Murray – Controller at RAF High Wycombe of the RAF Benevolent Fund – looks back on the support the RAF’s leading welfare charity During the first half of 2017, Wycombe we are committed Our relationship with the RAF has given to RAF personnel the RAF Benevolent Fund were to developing our strong family is constant, genuine nationwide during 2017. proud to spend over £646,000 and rewarding relationship, and unwavering. Without at RAF High Wycombe. Through allowing us to support even support from the serving “The past twelve months this support, 21 personnel more personnel who need us. RAF, we would not be able have seen the RAF family received Individual Grants. to offer the spectrum of care face new challenges, both at With our help, the Station If you would like to give that we do to the entire RAF home and overseas and as the were also able to continue something back to the RAF family, and for that I thank RAF’s leading welfare charity, their Airplay sessions and Benevolent Fund, please do each and every one of you. we are incredibly proud to maintain their Relate services. get in touch with us. Whether have supported more than And, through our enduring helping us raise awareness I very much hope to see 50,000 members of the RAF commitment to RAF Station through volunteering some of you over the coming community so far this year. Families Days, we awarded activities or support at weeks and months during my Whilst many of those that we RAF High Wycombe with a events, or generating funds visits to RAF stations, but in support are older veterans, significant grant, enabling through challenge activities the meantime I wish you all we are equally devoted to the entire RAF family to come or station occasions, we are an enjoyable festive period helping those who currently together on a momentous always immensely grateful and a very happy New Year.” serve, and their families. occasion. In 2018 at RAF High for the support we receive.

WW: 10 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 former air traffic traditional methods. In September, controller has reignited she created a new design, Aher links to the Royal drawing inspiration from her long Air Force by setting up a new association with the RAF to help company which is supporting a good cause. She explained: ASCENT the RAF Benevolent Fund. team and the producer of a is still serving part-time as an ‘With RAF 100 coming up, I thought local amateur production. In RAF Reservist at Air Command. After a career in the Royal Air that I would like to celebrate my own addition to her work with the Force spanning 30 years, the last service, which amounts to almost RAF Benevolent Fund, she ‘ASCENT’ can be purchased from 14 of which were mostly spent a third of the existence of the RAF, volunteers with the ‘Hearing www.chilterncandle.co.uk at High Wycombe, Wg Cdr Trish which seemed quite an amazing Dogs for Deaf People’ charity and and the RAF Museum. Preston-Whyte decided to leave achievement. I therefore created full-time employment last year ‘ASCENT’ that I specifically designed to embark on a new venture. for the RAF Benevolent Fund who In 2016, she set up the Chiltern have endorsed the product and will Candle Company, where she receive 10% of the profits. ‘ASCENT’ developed her hobby of making is a unisex fragrance that is light, luxurious candles into a business. fresh and will appeal to many.’

Trish, who is married with two An active member of the teenage children and lives locally, Chiltern community, Trish is the makes all the candles herself using manager of her son’s football

WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 11 EARN WHILE YOU LEARN –APPRENTICESHIPS FEATURE The Spring edition of this Wycombe World will include an A4 supplement focusing on apprenticeship opportunities, aimed at the families of RAF serving and civilian personnel. This will look at a range of choices from FE and HE bodies as well as private and public sector employers. We offer options for employer profiles and recruitment opportunities; to advertise, please contact Tammie on 01536 526667 shutterstock 2017 / users: goodluz/ monkey business / pressmaster business goodluz/ 2017 / users: monkey © shutterstock You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun... A spacious 1 bedroom apartment with shared swimming pool. The apartment is situated on the top floor of a 3 storey block. Quiet location, but only 5 mins walk to the marina and another 5 mins to the town centre.

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Bronze Award www.thewheelnaphill.com [email protected] in Buckinghamshire n Friday 8th September 2017, seven members Oof the High Wycombe RAFA Committee braved the RAF High Wycombe rain to support the Wings Appeal Collection in the City of London. An early start at 05:15 saw the team safely into London to the muster point at Guildhall ahead of the traffic, and in plenty of time to grab a good pitch. Unfortunately, the rain shower which started Wings as they left the car park at the Honourable Artillery Company’s Barracks did not abate, and those that were without an umbrella bore the continued downpour with stoicism. A complimentary hot drink from Costa was a welcome relief from the miserable conditions. All Appeal personnel reported a positive

WW: 14 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 reaction from the commuters, with many taking the time to £1,753.62. WOs Claire Old and pause in the rain to chat or just Kev Swift, FS’ Li Smith and Wilky offer their thanks for our service. Wilkinson, Sgts Terri Cambell Fundraiser. Please contact either The High Wycombe contribution and Matt Ridsdale and SAC FS Li Smith on ext. 4313, or FS raised was £1,765.52, part of an Huw Pateman laid siege to the Wilky Wilkinson on ext. 6840. pensions and compensation, overall total of almost £17,000.00 entrance gates and coffee shops To join RAFA, go to breaks for carers and the cared raised on the day by the South- of Air Command, raising £561.02, www.rafa.org.uk for, to access to welfare houses, East Area. Top scorer for High two buttons and a trolley token. RAFA aims to smooth out Wycombe, for the second year RAFA is a service charity that life’s wrinkles for the youngest running, was Sqn Ldr Ady Morris; All of those involved were aims to support all serving and recruit to the oldest veteran. his combination of charm and heartened by the generosity former service personnel and guile netted £420.98 on the day. of those they met, and the their families. To be eligible, The Wings Appeal is the RAF’s positive view held by the public it is necessary to have served fundraising campaign for serving The London event marked of both the service and of RAFA. for only one day in the RAF. and former RAF men and the end of a busy month It was a month of hard work, RAFA recognises that RAF women. It runs throughout the of fundraising for RAF High fun and positive engagement personnel dedicate their lives to year and culminates in Wings Wycombe. In ones, twos that saw RAF High Wycombe the country and tries to ensure Week, which commemorates the and in groups, they toured raise a total of £4,080.16. We that their sacrifice does not result Battle of Britain, in September. Buckinghamshire and parts of continue working to make sure in suffering, poverty or loneliness. Commencing in 1951, the Oxfordshire in support of the all are aware of the good work focus of the appeal is on RAF Wings Appeal. Sqn Ldr Ady RAFA does, but there is also With 540 welfare officers fundraising, of which some Morris, and his wife Tracy, set up fun to be had in fundraising. making 102,200 welfare visits £1.8 million is collected and a stall at the Rebellion Brewery New and old members are and calls per year, RAFA tries distributed annually. at Marlow Bottom, raising £120. welcome, and the High to help with life’s challenges Fundraising events range Sgt Roy Jameson had a very Wycombe committee has and also help homeless from: Brew for a Few, stalls, profitable few days in Marlow and vacancies for an Events veterans rebuild their lives. sponsored events, the Wings Henley-on-Thames, collecting Co-ordinator/Web Manager and From providing advice on Lotto and bucket collections.

Pictured in the dry warmth of the Guildhall after the collection are (from left to right) Sgt Phil Matthews, Sqn Ldr Ady Morris, Cpl Aimee Andrews, FS Paula Murray, Sgt Lori Armstrong, Cpl Rob Shields and Sqn Ldr Chris Morrill.

WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 15 Bridging the Gap RAF High Wycombe Dental Centre Update Ladies

ental Centre Staff visited topical cream throughout the the Dental Showcase day to help ease the pain? For Din Birmingham’s NEC this to work effectively though, Arena for a Training Day on you have to rub the toothpaste h What a Night! see that a handful of people 19th October 2017. Dental into the area for at least one As you will be aware if from RAF High Wycombe/ companies and suppliers minute, as it’s the friction O you read the last edition Air Command had come to come together here to motion which helps achieve of Wycombe World, the RAF support us, as well as some of promote new techniques the results! High Wycombe Ladies Choir our previous members who and products to thousands of took part in the ‘Sing it Out!’ had travelled back from their dental professionals over the A lecture on Periodontal charity concert on 8th October new postings especially. The three-day event. This provides Disease by a leading specialist 2017 to raise money for the hall was packed, with all the us with invaluable updates – Did you know that brushing ‘Hear Their Roar’ project. It was tickets having been sold, and on new developments in alone only cleans 60% of your the first time that most of the the audience was amazing. The the Dental world. This year, tooth surface. To stop gum ladies had performed on stage whole evening was designed to the move towards digital disease and bone loss, you with professional lighting and be a fun and relaxing evening of impressions and scanning was MUST clean interdentally with sound engineers, as well as taking entertainment, and the audience significant, and all the electric floss or brushes every day. part in technical rehearsals. This, were encouraged to show their toothbrush manufacturers coupled with singing alongside appreciation in whichever way had interesting new products And a brief from Oral B about professionals from the West End they preferred, so there was to show. the benefits of Fluoride in in front of a fee paying audience, whooping and cheering, as well toothpaste - Did you know can create a lot of pressure for as applause! From our point of Sqn Ldr Streete, Cpl Robinson that you should spit out excess amateur performers, but the view, the concert went by in a and SAC Reeves all gained toothpaste after brushing your ladies were brilliant, taking it all bit of a blur as before we knew invaluable essential Continuous teeth, but not rinse, to allow in their stride and supporting it, it was all over and we were Professional Development the Fluoride to linger and other members of the cast. finally allowed to attack the cake (CPD), and were also able to strengthen the teeth against stall (no dairy before singing as gather lots of product samples sugar attacks? We had to be there for a 13:30 it is bad for the vocal chords!!!) and patient information, as technical rehearsal, which went well as having their pictures Sqn Ldr Streete also managed very smoothly, and then we The whole day was such a taken in the photo booth to remain conscious spent most of the afternoon lovely mix of fun, hard work and and catching up with old throughout the entire Care rehearsing the ‘all cast’ numbers camaraderie between groups friends from DPHC (Dental), Quality Commission (CQC) which we had never sung of people who had never even both on the stands and visiting inspection lecture. This should together before. In addition to us, met each other before, never the exhibition. be a great help when the CQC there were two other community mind performed together. Every come along to inspect the choirs, some amateur soloists member of the cast gave their We attended briefs from: Dental Centre in the future. and five professional performers, all and, if the audience’s reaction and we had all learnt our parts for was anything to go by, produced Colgate on tackling sensitivity It wasn’t all work though – the three songs in isolation. Our a concert to be proud of; I will – Did you know that if you there were plenty of interactive Musical Director was overjoyed be able to tell you more when have a sensitive tooth, you can stalls and games to play… who when her arrangements worked I have watched the DVD of the apply sensitive toothpaste as a said Dentistry was boring? and we all sang together for the night. At the time of writing, we first time (she is a clever lady!) do not know how much money was raised, but I hope to be Eventually the audience started able to update you in the next to arrive and it was lovely to edition of Wycombe World.

WW: 16 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 If you still wish to contribute, then the details for ‘Hear Their Roar’ are in the box below and details of how you can buy the DVD of Charity Wi-Fi Project the concert will be on the From Vision to Voice Facebook page (we will link it from our page once the details are announced). Reduces Isolation for RAF Personnel The RAF High Wycombe Ladies Choir is open to serving Ladies, Civil Servants and contractors third of serving RAF For those housed in single within the working day to working on RAF High Wycombe personnel can now benefit person accommodation, the manage personal affairs. It is as well as partners and daughters A from free communal opportunities to socialise and vital that when personnel are (16yrs and over) of all three wi-fi provided by the RAF engage with peers are reduced. away from home that they are groups. We rehearse in the Station Association. The charity has Parents are also affected if they able to stay connected and Church on 3 Site from 1900hrs made a £1.2million investment are working away from their alleviate isolation. to 2030hrs on a Wednesday to keep serving airmen and families. Now the Association’s evening and we return from the women connected to their wi-fi hotspots are set up in “We are dedicated to providing summer break on 6th September. friends and loved ones and it is communal areas on station a programme of digital support proving a huge success. Studies to encourage new bonds to all serving personnel, We are always looking for show that workplace loneliness and to build up relationships whether they are newly arrived new members; no previous leads to poorer performances that are key for the working in the service or they are a singing experience is required, in tasks and lesser contributions environment. The wi-fi also seasoned professional away and there are no auditions, so to team roles¹. The ability to stay helps personnel to stay in from their friends and family come along and give it a go! connected digitally helps to avoid contact with their existing on another tour. The free For more information some of those issues for people support networks – family, communal wi-fi project allows search for RAF HW Ladies stationed away from home. friends, partners and children us to continue to be there for Choir on Facebook, email at home. the serving RAF community.” rafhwyladieschoir@hotmail. 16 RAF stations and more than com, or contact the Secretary, 11,000 personnel can now benefit Rory O’Connor, Director The Association is also working Flt Lt Sam Broderick, Samantha. from the free wi-fi. The project of Welfare and Policy, RAF to connect RAF welfare contact [email protected] came about when the Association Association says: “In this age, we houses to this free wi-fi. The or the Deputy OIC, Flt Lt was told of the social isolation are reliant on digital technology charity has so far refurbished 73 Anne Nicholson, anne. that many new recruits feel on to stay in touch with friends contact houses on 32 stations, [email protected] commencing their service life. and family, but also to manage ensuring that separated families Security considerations often our online presence and daily are able to have somewhere on Hear Their Roar is a charity that prevent access to military wi-fi tasks. This is particularly true station where they can reunite has been set up by our MD, for personal use and the cost of when it comes to the armed in a homely environment. These Megan Tanner and her associate extra infrastructure to reach the forces community, who are facilities will be enhanced by Sarah Cuthbertson to facilitate more remote RAF bases is usually often away from loved ones the addition of free wi-fi to young people who have prohibitive. and pressured to find time more than 70 of these houses. experienced trauma to express their experiences and feelings through the arts. The aim is to allow them to explore their issues and situations in a safe space, and to support those who care for them in understanding their experiences. The pair’s focus is currently around London, but they are also planning their first project in East Africa. More information can be found at www.heartheirroar.co.uk or search for Hear Their Roar on Facebook.

¹ Work loneliness and employee performance, Barsade and Ozcelik, 2011

WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 17 A Lifetime in Aviation The Flying Life Of A.J.L. ‘Bill’ Hickox John in peaked cap with his pilot Jack ‘Benny’ Goodman in front of their Mosquito Mk B.IV DZ484 f the name “Johnny Head-in-Air” “G George” of No.627 Sqn at Woodhall Spa early in 1944. from the poem in the wartime Ifilm ‘The Way to the Stars’ could be applied to anyone, then it could certainly be applied to my Uncle John, as I used to call him. Of course, his crewmates would inevitably call him Bill, as I have been called myself.

He once said to me that he considered a day wasted if he wasn’t in the air, and he proved this by flying for over 22,000 hours in his 50-year flying career from 1941 to 1991. He sadly died a few years ago, but not long before, he had been talking to me about taking him to some reunions with his flying mates.

John, as I will call him, knew long before age 18 that he wanted to fly and, if it hadn’t been for his At that time crews required 40 Mersa Matruh at 2345 hrs flying a flying boat “Bangor” and flew to headmaster’s refusal to sign his trips to complete their tours, Ju 88 C-6. It was Rokker’s third kill Poole Harbour via Bathurst, Lisbon, papers, he would have joined which John had completed by of a total of 64 and Shannon the RAF at age 16. An amusing 24th June 1942, but was back on by the war’s end, (Foynes). It was anecdote he mentioned to me the battle order two nights later. and he would this long trip was that he was so keen to buy German night fighter activity in be awarded which showed and read aviation books before the the region was increasing, but the the Eichenlaub him the future war, that he bought a book called allies weren’t fully aware of the (Oak Leaves). He survived the potential of civil aviation. ‘Sky Pilot’ without looking inside. Luftwaffe’s growing capability in the war, and may be still alive. When he got home and opened area and crews still thought that His close call with death was it up, he found to his horror that it the chances of being intercepted Luckily, John landed without enough to adversely affect anyone’s was about a vicar. Whether he got by night fighters was negligible. mishap by parachute in the nerve and chain smoking and his money back for it I do not know. darkness of the desert. And, by trembling hands were symptoms of John and his crew, flying out of calling out, the four surviving crew this, as his younger sister observed When he joined the RAF in 1941, Cairo West, were spotted by an members were able to reestablish when he was at home on leave. his eyesight was not quite good aircraft which the rear gunner contact with each other. They However, after a period of rest enough to be a pilot, so he trained misidentified as a Beaufighter. The concluded afterwards that the and recuperation, he was ready as a navigator with 15 OTU (Officer colours of the night were fired aircraft that attacked them was a to go back on active service. Training Unit) at Harwell on Avro off twice. But the aircraft veered Junkers Ju.88, which looked similar Ansons and Blackburn Bothas. In off, returned, and fired at the port to a Beaufighter in the dark. Although in 1943 his eyesight 1942, he was posted to No.70 engine which burst into flames. was good enough when he Squadron on Wellington 1C’s, The order to bail out was given by Navigating by the stars, and being volunteered again for pilot training, where operations began after the Captain. Only four of the crew careful to avoid nasty clanking John’s navigating skills were of the squadron flew out to North managed to leave the aircraft, the noises nearby as they did not know too much merit to be lost. Africa, bombing the Germans front gunner bailing out into the which side of the enemy lines as they advanced eastwards good engine and the Captain going they had landed, they progressed From March 1943, he instructed towards Egypt and being based down with the flaming aircraft. slowly in a northeasterly direction. at various OTUs (Officer Training at a number of Desert Landing With the coming of daylight, they Units) on Wellington III’s, Grounds, including Kabrit and Abu According to John’s log book, he finally came across some British Lysanders, Oxfords, Whitleys and Sueir, and ending up at Cairo West. was on operations to Benghazi to infantry on a reconnaissance Miles Martinets. In September attack the Barrani to Matruh road having a brew next to their lorry, 1943, he volunteered to join the from LG (landing ground) 224 on and were rescued. They each Pathfinders as a navigator in night the night of 26th June 1942. They got a certificate for joining the bombing raids in a two-crew were attacked at 01:30, 40 miles “Late Arrivals Club” when they got D.H. 98 Mosquito, a wooden SE of Matruh by a Ju.88, and port back to their home base at Cairo aircraft so fast that it did not need engine set on fire and forced to bail West long after their due ETA. defensive armament and could, in out. The Captain, Sgt Clayton, and exceptional circumstances, carry the front gunner were missing. After a period of leave in Palestine, a bomb load almost as much as John was posted home on a BOAC the Boeing B-17 Fortress with A reliable source has since Short Empire flying boat “Corsair”, an eight-man crew, which was Wellington 1C discovered that he was shot down via Central Africa and the Congo. used in daylight bombing raids by Lt Heinz Rökker of 1./NJG 2 SW At Lagos, he boarded a Boeing 314 by the U.S. 8th Army Air Force. WW: 18 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 Oakington and John and his pilot, as members of ‘C’ Flight, No.139 Squadron, formed part of the Part One – Wartime Flying nucleus of the new squadron. They moved to Oakington in November 1943, again operating the Mosquito B Mk.IV. The Bomber Command offensive against Berlin was beginning, and they took part in seven bombing missions against the ‘Big City’, operating as part of No.8 Group Light Night Striking Force.

For one operation, Nos. 627 and 139 Squadrons were briefed for an all Mosquito attack on the ‘Big City’. John and ‘Benny’ took off for an uneventful trip, except that they returned to bad weather over the airfield with a cloud base of 500 feet and heavy rain, which made landing tricky. At debrief, they learned that they had been the only RAF aircraft over Germany A line up B Mk.IV Mosquitos at RAF Marham; late 1942. that night. Operations had been cancelled at a very late stage and the other Mosquito that had The Pathfinders were an elite Composite, to conserve fuel for the the task of pin-pointing targets taken off turned back with engine bomber force created and headed long Atlantic crossing. This led to his with different coloured flares, so trouble. No wonder that the by the then Wing Commander Don pioneering flying at the start of the that the main bomber force could mission had been so peaceful. Bennett, who was a hard-working, transatlantic Air Ferry Command then aim their bombs at the flares. no nonsense individual, who would in 1940 which, by the end of Technological advances based on The Pathfinder Mosquitoes had get things done by cutting through the war, had ferried thousands radar included the blind bombing another navigational aid called red tape. It was said that he had of American aircraft across the device ‘Oboe’, whereby an aircraft ‘Gee’. This used three widely-spaced written the first definitive text book Atlantic, to contribute to the war could be controlled by stations ground radar transmitters which on Air Navigation whilst cruising effort against Fortress Europe. in England but was limited by sent radio pulses in a set order. on a ship on his honeymoon with the curvature of the earth, and The aircraft receiver enabled the his new Swiss wife before the war, He also developed FIDO (Fog demanded extremely precise flying. navigator to measure the difference not wishing to waste time. What Investigation and Dispersal Each pair of ‘Oboe’ stations could in time between the reception of his new wife thought of this I do Operation) for the clearing of serve only one aircraft at a time and the various pulses, and by referring not know. But at that time, wives fog from runways by burning its best application was therefore these to a special ‘Gee’ map of generally had to put up with things barrels of petrol each side of the to the high-flying Mosquitoes Europe, covered with lattice lines, they would not put up with now. runway, creating enough heat which dropped the marker flares. the position of the aircraft could At that time, Bennett had begun to disperse the fog to enable be determined with considerable experimental transatlantic flights in returning bombers to land at H2S, a ground mapping radar accuracy, although this deteriorated a four-engined floatplane aircraft, night on certain FIDO equipped which could distinguish between with distance, but was good ‘Mercury’, taking off piggy-back runways, when all other airfields land and water, built-up areas enough for aircraft at distances as style on top of a larger flying boat were closed down by fog in winter and open country, was fitted to far as the western half of Germany. ‘Maia’, the Short-Mayo S.20/S.21 weather. As this procedure used the Main Force bombers, which, up much valuable petrol, it was from 1943 onwards, were mostly However, ‘Gee’ could be easily only limited to a few airfields on Lancaster and Halifax heavy jammed by the Germans, which especially foggy winter nights. bombers, to help their navigators reduced its effective range to an to find their approximate position arc running along the Dutch coast. At the first experimental trial of over Germany, particularly This meant that navigators had to this new system, when a large when the target city was on the work very quickly to calculate an number of petrol-filled barrels coast or a river ran through it. accurate wind speed and direction were lit to create enough hot air before heading into Germany. On above the runway to disperse the Initially on 1655 Mosquito Training long trips to Berlin or Munich for fog, Bennett had failed to warn Unit at RAF Marham, John teamed example, they were sometimes the local fire brigade who, seeing a up with his pilot Flying Officer Jack helped by a route marker put large red glow in the sky, thought ‘Benny’ Goodman where they down halfway to the target, and that there had been a terrible trained together on a Mosquito possibly another even closer. These accident at the airfield and raced Mk B.IV and then were posted were laid either by Pathfinder there at top speed. Bennett had to No.139 (Jamaica) Squadron Lancasters or No.139 Squadron to apologise for not letting them at RAF Wyton, flying the same Mosquitoes equipped with H2S. know. But at least there was no mark of Mosquito. John and his terrible emergency. He became pilot together flew some very The only other navigational aid in an Air Vice-Marshal and after dangerous missions during their the Mosquito was a VHF radio set, the war founded, and was Chief 40-operation tour. Their night from transmissions of which it was Executive of, British South American bombing operations included visits possible to take a bearing on the In 1942 John was given this Airways, an airline pioneering to Cologne, Hamburg, Dusseldorf, position of the transmitting aircraft “Late Arrivals Club” certificate routes to South America. Berlin, and Gelsenkirchen. and give it a course to steer for by No.70 Sqn after walking back home base. This was a life saver, to Allied lines when shot down The Pathfinders needed excellent A new Pathfinder squadron, and stopped many an aircraft from over the Western Desert. navigators and pilots as they had No.627, was formed at RAF flying off in the wrong direction WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 19 and ending up force-landing in Mosquito shot up like a lift at Due to plans for Operation marking mission with three other enemy territory, or in the North Sea least 500 feet and performance Overlord and the necessity of Mosquitoes against the Usine or Channel, on running out of fuel. overall improved greatly. crippling the French transportation Lictard engineering works outside system before the invasion, Tours in France. This was then The Mosquito However, this was accurate bombing of French flattened by accurate bombing had no defensive their only ‘cookie- railway marshalling yards had to when, previously, the US 8th Army armament and, carrying’ mission be undertaken. But French loss Air Force had dropped most of on one mission, as, in April 1944, of life had to be minimised at all their bombs on open fields. John and ‘Benny’ they moved to costs. Thus, the low-level marking lost the starboard Woodhall Spa, Mosquitoes were employed to try On the next mission they nearly engine over Germany due to a alongside No.617 Squadron, to and ensure accuracy, and John and met their maker or, if luckier, would loss of oil pressure and their speed take part in specialised target ‘Benny’ took part in the attack on have had to walk back from the and height was reduced to that of marking operations for No.5 the Juvisy railway marshalling yard Continent. The target was Mailly- the heavily-armed Lancasters. As Group. These were under the outside Paris, which proceeded le-Camp, a German tank depot their only generator was powered direction of Wing Commander with excellent results. The railway near Epernay in eastern France. by the failed engine, they had to Leonard Cheshire, who was later yards were marked at each end Wg Cdr Leonard Cheshire led the turn off internal lights, the Gee promoted to Group Captain with red spot-flares and the low-level marker aircraft and eight box and their VHF radio set to and awarded the Victoria Cross Main Force Lancasters bombed Mosquitoes of No.627 Squadron conserve power in their internal for successfully completing 100 between the target indicators. were at a slightly higher level to battery. When they reckoned they missions over enemy territory, The bombing was concentrated, dive-bomb the light flak positions were over the Dutch coast, John and for his sustained courage and the yards were destroyed, few known to be around the depot. switched the Gee box back on contribution to the effectiveness of French lives were lost and all Although the target was marked with the power left in the battery Bomber Command. After the war, aircraft returned safely to base. accurately and Cheshire gave the and was able to plot a fix. Turning he founded the Cheshire Homes, order to bomb, the first wave did the VHF set back onto the distress initially for disabled servicemen, Other targets they marked in not receive the instruction and frequency, they were able to but later for any disabled people. missions over Germany included began to orbit the target. This was transmit and were given a course Brunswick, Munich and Schweinfurt because of interference from an to steer for the nearest airfield at The operations from then on in April 1944. In the case of Munich, American broadcasting station in RAF Coltishall, where they landed comprised low-level target marking 90% of bombs fell on target, doing England, which should not have without further trouble on an for which the Mosquito was best more damage in one night than been on the same frequency. unfamiliar airfield in the dark. suited. The Lancaster Pathfinder had been achieved by Bomber This caused the unnecessary Squadrons were to identify the Command and the US 8th Army loss of many British lives as the They had been shadowed by a target areas on H2S and were Air Force together in the last four German night fighters moved Beaufighter from over Holland to lay a carpet of flares over a years of war. The superiority of the in and began to shoot down when its crew realised they were in given target, under which No.627 new marking system was clearly the Lancasters. Eventually the trouble. They had been completely Squadron would locate and mark shown, but the irony was that situation was sorted out and the unaware of its benign presence, the precise aiming point. The the German Flak was almost all of depot was bombed, but the cost which would have been needed target would then be destroyed by the heavy variety, for use against was high, 46 of the 362 attackers if they had been attacked by a No.5 Group Lancaster Bombers. relatively high-flying aircraft. There being lost. This just shows that in German night fighter. People was not much light flak, which was wartime a seemingly small, but looked after each other in those The Lancaster Pathfinders were concentrated in France and the totally avoidable, mistake can have days. They had to when it was to lay a Netherlands, the most serious consequences a matter of life and death. concentrated and made causing many lives to be lost. carpet of these Before one mission, they were hooded flares, targets John and Benny could see bomber stood down in favour of a new the light from much more after bomber coming down in crew. John and his pilot had air- which would dangerous flames towards them and had a tested the aircraft that morning be directed downwards onto the for the low-level markers difficult time as they dived on the and found it was fully serviceable. target, making it as bright as day. than the German ones. light flak batteries, dropped their When the new crew took off that A small number of Mosquitoes, bombs singly on them, avoided night, both engines failed when just four or six, would orbit, find the In April 1944, both John and light flak and burning Lancasters airborne and, in the dark, the crew aiming point, and then mark it in a ‘Benny’ were awarded the and managed to keep out of were killed in the resulting crash. shallow dive with 500 lb spot-flares. Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), harm’s way. After they had dropped Fate had looked kindly on John and Marker Leader would assess the which were the first decorations their bombs, Benny called Marker ‘Benny’ that day. They flew further position of the spot-flares relative awarded to members of No. Leader and was told to go home. bombing missions over Germany to the aiming point and would 627 Squadron. The wording of John gave him a course to steer to Dusseldorf, Franfurt, Kiel, pass on this information to the John’s award was as follows : - for the French coast, and they Leipzig, Stuttgart, Kassel, Duisberg, Master Bomber in one of the should have climbed to 25,000 feet. Hanover, Essen, and Osnabruck. Pathfinder Lancasters. The Master “Now on his second tour of But, because of the mayhem at a Bomber would then take over and operational duty, Flying Officer higher altitude in the target area, In the spring of 1944, a standard direct the Main Force Lancasters Hickox has served both in the they decided to stay at low level. Mk IV Mosquito flew in, which had onto the target. This was a system European and Middle East theatres been modified to carry a 4,000 lb which would bring unheard of of war. During his first tour of On their way back at high speed bomb, the ‘cookie’. The bomb bay accuracy to night bombing. duty in the Middle East, he was at 500 feet, a searchlight suddenly had been strengthened and the navigator in an aircraft which was shone directly on them, followed bomb doors re-designed, and An intensive period of dive shot down in flames. He succeeded by two or three more. Light flak the belly had been expanded to bombing practice was therefore in landing by parachute. Since this came up and exploded all around. look markedly rotund. John and undertaken at the Wainfleet hazardous experience, this officer They could not lose height nor ‘Benny’ were to fly the cookie- Bombing Range. It was found that has participated in many successful climb as this would have been carrier as much as possible, as the diving from 2,000 feet straight at sorties, invariably evincing a gift to the German gunners. most experienced crews were to the target was the best method exceptional skill, enthusiasm and With John shouting “watch your take her on normal operations. to obtain the necessary accuracy unflinching determination to instruments”, Benny turned steeply The pregnant Mosquito was and, with practice, this was complete each mission successfully.” to port, leveled out and turned sluggish on take off and climbed achieved. But doing this while steeply to starboard and repeated sedately. But when they dropped flying against the enemy would The now decorated crew then the performance. Although held the bomb over the Ruhr, the be a very different matter. undertook a further successful by searchlights and flak for some WW: 20 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 and has consistently displayed great I am not sure whether the ability and skill. His imperturbable comment that John was carefree coolness in dangerous situations on the ground was much of a has been highly commendable.” criticism, as it was surely better to be like that than continually John was then summoned to worrying about one’s mortality. the Air Ministry and offered a Such worry could undermine job as an aide de-camp, a sort morale and job efficiency in a of ‘on the run’ organiser, for a bomber crew, which had to work senior officer. This was the way well as a team and, whilst the Messerschmitt ME 262B-1a/U1 Night Fighter to promotion. But John declined Mosquito had a crew of two, a the offer as he “just wanted to fly”. Lancaster would have a typical time, they were not held by one Cherbourg Peninsula. This gun was Staying mostly on the ground crew of seven. If one member searchlight and one gun for very supposed to cover the approach was not his way, promotion or no of the team was not working up long and were able to zigzag their to Utah Beach on D-Day. Being promotion. He was therefore sent to scratch, it would endanger way towards the coast. Luckily well camouflaged, it was difficult to Hendon with No.510 Met.Com. the rest of the crew. In the they were not hit and, as they to find. But when found, they (Metropolitan Communication) Mosquito, the two crew cleared a low hill, they saw the sea were able to mark it, and it was Squadron in November 1944, flying were directly dependent on before them. The final group of straddled with armour piercing on Dominies (Dragon Rapides), each other to carry out their searchlights shone through the bombs from 100 Lancasters. After Ansons, Hudsons, Lockheed 12A, mission successfully, and to trees at the top of the hill they several direct hits, the casemate and Dakotas. He was then posted avoid being shot down. had just flown over, and were burst open and collapsed, so that it to No.6 LFS (Lancaster Flying above them and lighting them on was just a heap of rubble on D-Day School) Ossington in November The Mosquito’s escape hatch was their way. They roared over a river and no threat to the Americans. 1945, flying on Yorks and Dakotas. in the lower side of the cockpit. estuary, passing the lighthouse at In an emergency, in favourable Le Treport, and then were away After one more successful trip to On secondment to BOAC at circumstances at high altitude, over the sea, climbing to safety and the railway yard at Saumur, their Whitchurch in December 1945, the two crew might have 45 home. A lucky escape indeed. tour ended and John and ‘Benny’ John flew as navigator on Dakotas seconds in which to escape. After Goodman had flown together around the Mediterranean and disconnecting tubes, plugs and The Germans were always very against Fortress Europe 38 times. West Africa. In April 1946, he seat belts and jettisoning the hatch, quick to take advantage of But they would not fly together was seconded to BEA based at the navigator had to clip on his any mix up or mistakes in an again. John had flown a total Northolt, again on Dakotas, flying chest parachute and manoeuvre attack, which usually resulted in of 81 operations, the balance as navigator around Europe. But his way through the hole where a disproportionate number of of the total in North Africa. with the war over, and having the hatch had been, which was casualties. The German defenses seen the potential of civil aviation, scarcely big enough to get through were always very sharp. It did John was posted to No.1655 MTU John decided to leave the RAF and even without a parachute. The pilot not do to (Mosquito seek a future with civilian airlines. then followed him, wearing the underestimate Training parachute attached to his backside. them, as you Unit) at During the war, John’s John and Benny both failed to get could be caught Warboys Commanding Officers wrote out in time in a practice drill and with the flick in July their comments in his logbook decided it was best not to have of a searchlight 1944, on his performance in the role to try. Luckily, they never had to switch and instructing of navigator. The C.O. of 15 O.T.U leave their aircraft in a hurry. they were very on Oxfords wrote in November 1941, when reluctant to let and John was new to his trade : - Group Captain Leonard Cheshire you go without Halifaxes. VC summed up the bombing shooting you Both Average. A capable navigator campaign as follows : down. The same John and who keeps a very neat log. There applied if you were caught by one ‘Benny’ were awarded a Bar to their is room for improvement in his “If when the bomber offensive of their night fighters, although DFC’s in October 1944, recognising navigational ability, however. and the whole war is analysed, Mosquitoes were able to outrun their brave contribution to the war it is decided we had lifted the lid these, unless taken by surprise, effort. The wording to this award The C.O. of No.70 Squadron on Fortress Europe just enough until almost the end of the war. stated of my uncle the following : - wrote in July 1942: - to let the Allied armies in, then Above average. Has by God that was enough. And In March 1945, the Germans had “During his long and successful improved, is now a very good that is what we did do. The made their deadly Messerschmitt record of operations Flt Lt navigator but is inclined to bomber offensive was absolutely Me.262 jet fighter operational with Hickox has attacked many of be carefree on the ground. necessary and we could never 10/NJG11 night fighter wing in the most strongly defended have won without it. I think northern Germany. The version targets in Germany and on The C.O. of No.627 Squadron people are beginning to come used was the Me.262B-1a/U1 with numerous occasions his aircraft wrote in July 1944 : - round to the idea that perhaps a tandem cockpit to include the has been heavily engaged by Exceptional. A thorough we did have to do what we did.” radar operator. This aircraft could enemy defenses. He has recently and extremely efficient fly nearly 100 mph faster than undertaken many hazardous sorties navigator in Mosquitoes. CREDITS: the Mosquito, and its jet turbine engines and advanced design Mosquito in Action (Parts 1 & 2) - represented a revolutionary new Gp Capt. J.R.Goodman (dec’d), technology, which would power Five of the Many – Steve Darlow the next generation of fighter and Flypast magazine 1986 bomber aircraft. The tables had Staff Magazine No.3 - been suddenly turned against the Birmingham European Airways Mosquito, and a number of them Wartime Logbook of were lost before the war ended. A.J.L.Hickox (dec’d) Chris Goss – Author of a number On May 28 1944, John and Benny of books about the Luftwaffe were briefed to attack a heavy German gun on the coast of the BOB HICKOX WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 21 INDEPENDENT LIVING AT CHILTON HOUSE Taking an apartment should also give you the peace of mind The clock tower, adjacent to chilton house, is home to our that should your needs change, we can adjust the level of care two newly refurbished independent living apartments. These support without you having to leave the apartment where you apartments may suit people who are finding their houses and feel at home. gardens too much of a burden, but wish to continue living an They have just been completed, and we would love to show you independent lifestyle and enjoying their retirement to the full. round the apartments and the stunning views over the lake from With a choice of packages to suit your needs, you are able to the terrace. continue with you “own front door”, but have the option to use all chilton house’s facilities, and the security of having our care For more information or to book a show round please call us team on call should you require them. today on 01844 265200

Starting from £1,100 per week, the base support package includes all maintenance, utilities, housekeeping, laundry, administration assistance, and access to all chilton house’ facilities & activities. You will also enjoy access to the hairdressing salon, physiotherapy and a busy events programme. Pets are welcome by prior agreement.

Shoe Repairs, Key Cutting, To advertise in the next issue of Sports Trophies & Engraving this publication, please contact Tammie Also dry cleaning & watch batteries Tel: 01536 526667 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE Email: tammie@ Tel: 01844 274651 Email: [email protected] lancepublishing.co.uk

Welcome to the Ultimate Team Sport

n a bright autumn The RAF Rowing Club represents morning, as the mist all disciplines within the sport. Olifts from the River In addition to the sliding-seat Thames, and our coxless fraternity, we support Cornish four zips effortlessly away pilot gigs at RAF St Mawgan from the bank, you pinch and send several contestants yourself as you remember to the British Indoor Rowing how lucky the RAF community Championships. Rowing is an is to enjoy the Central incredibly inclusive sport; we Fund facilities at Danesfield arrange overnight trips down near Medmenham. As well the Thames for recreational as canoeing and force rowers and much of our fleet development, Danesfield can be converted for adaptive hosts the RAF’s Home for Sport rowing to accommodate for rowing. para-athletes who might be RAF Women’s squad boating for the prevented from participating in Women’s Eights Head of the River Race In addition to twice weekly other sports. You are never too meetings for rowers from old to row, British Rowing offers throughout the Thames Valley, Veterans’ classes from age 27 to Danesfield provides a terrific over 85. Don’t think you have to and homely base for three be a 6’6” gym monster to row, 4-day Learn to Row courses lightweight events are popular every year. The latest of for those under 72.5 kg (men) these courses, at the end of and 59 kg (women). And while September, saw 40 rowers we are on the subject of slender from complete beginners participants, we are always to GB trialists, engage in the looking for people to squeeze ultimate team sport. The course into the coxing seat. culminated in the athletes competing against the Navy and If you are an existing rower, the Army in the Joint Services or are interested in trying out Regatta at Reading; Novices the sport for the first time, RAF Women’s with only a few days on the you can email us at squad race under water won silverware alongside [email protected], or contact Barnes’ Bridge our more experienced crews our Development Officer, Paul such as the Senior Men’s Eight. MacDonald on 01494 497496.

RAF Women’s squad row to the start of the Women’s Eights Head of the River Race

WW: 24 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 CO’s Cup Report

others who lacked some of the abilities required to stay upright and, more importantly, onto the n Wednesday 13th board. This brought the water September 2017, staff into play, intervening to help Opersonnel from around people back on their boards on the Station met at MT for what numerous occasions. The second was planned to be a great day leg was even more eventful, as down at the Robson Resilience the blindfolded individuals had Centre, Danesfield. The day began definitely drawn the short straw, with individuals being issued having to step onto the boards with wetsuits and attempting to or, in some cases, not onto the familiarise themselves with each boards at all, but straight into the individual piece of watercraft, water instead. ranging from paddle boards, canoes, kayaks and coracles. After The final event was the giant some capsizing, and some poor paddle board, where every navigation ending in multiple member of the team was to get collisions, everyone was content. onto the board before paddling out to the buoy and back, and The group was then split down disembarking the board as fast into four teams of six and prepared as they could. Fastest time wins. for the first event: canoe racing, Apart from a few wobbles, and but with a slight twist. Three one individual missing the board individuals were to be used for when stepping on, the water this event, two of which would be remained pretty undisturbed paddling whilst blindfolded, with with all teams making it back in the third in charge of navigation. quick time. This went as well as you can imagine, with teams paddling in After all events were complete, the wrong direction, into other the Station Commander, Group canoes and away from the centre; Captain Woods, delivered a thankfully, with some gentle speech thanking all participants guidance from the Staff in the for what was a great event. He water, teams eventually managed gave particular thanks to the RRC to return to the side of the river Danesfield Staff, Sgt Crawford unharmed and dry. and Cpl Hobday, for leading the event and ensuring that everyone The second event was the kayak enjoyed their day out. The trophy relay race, where teams of four was awarded to the overall took it in turn to paddle until they winning team, which was the were in line with the buoy, before Yellow Team. turning round and returning to swap with a team mate. Although there were a few wobbly moments with the changeovers, once again all teams returned unscathed.

Event three saw the coracles introduced, with each team providing their best paddler. With some questionable techniques, some individuals just ended up in a spin, drifting downstream rather than to the specified route of the buoy and back, much to the delight of onlookers.

The Penultimate event saw the paddle boards come into use, as the race involved an individual going to the buoy and back, before two people got onto the boards: one to navigate and the second to paddle whilst blindfolded. The first leg of the race saw a few individuals shine, with some good paddle boarding technique and balance, WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 25 Princes Risborough School (PRS) Awarded Grant from the Ministry of Defence Education Support Fund

rinces Risborough School recently welcomed Group PCaptain Rob Woods, the Royal Air Force High Wycombe Station Commander, to assist in opening a Ministry of Defence funded (MOD) project.

The Ministry of Defence Education Support Fund was created to assist publicly funded schools, to help mitigate the effects of mobility or deployment on their Service communities.

Although its primary focus is toward Service children, one of the key criteria of the Fund is that the Bid should benefit all students. So, in September 2016 the school placed a ‘tentative’ bid to redevelop a barren area of land, to provide not only a ‘covered area’ for pastoral and restorative purposes, but also to regenerate the surrounding landscape with a ‘multi-purpose’ surface.

In January 2017, we received the amazing news that PRS had been awarded £33,300 to Pete Rowe welcomes Group Captain Rob Woods to PRS, achieve this task! Preparatory to officially open our new pastoral and sheltered area. clearance work started in early June – to show ‘value for money’ and to ensure this project was an This is a fantastic project and organic process, our Construction one that I’m pleased to endorse students were involved from the – the fact that the kids have also outset ensuring the area was had an input from the beginning cleared before our contractors and that the plaque was designed started work in late July. On and produced by PRS is a brilliant behalf of the MOD, Group initiative! I’m really pleased that Captain Woods was invited to the MOD has been able to support commemorate this event and the school in this way. to show our appreciation to the MOD for providing the funds. - Group Captain Rob Woods

WW: 26 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017

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uring the summer, and led military activities. More This was an opportunity an unfortunate period specifically, the Staff Ride to allow personnel to Dof JPA unavailability for would discuss the use of soak up history, using the essential upgrades and post a Air Power during the Battle lessons learnt in order to MODNet migration, members of Britain and the vital role progress with individual of the Service Complaints played by civilians working and collective ‘Whole Force’ Team (SCT) embarked on with the military. The various leadership training, for future due to work pressures; a series of visits to various stands throughout the week application. Many of those individuals nominated had, Battle of Britain sites, in order would provide an insight in attending the Staff Ride had in some circumstances, never to provide the participants to how the air power roles waived the CAS’s directive undertaken any Staff Rides with exposure to research- developed and evolved. for attendance many times in their entire careers.

Day 1 - Battle of Britain which appears on many Battle whereas other members of the were instrumental in how the Memorial, Capel-Le-Ferne of Britain documentaries. team joined the fighter aces RAF conducts operations in The central statue of a lone ranks on their first attempts. the Air Environment today. Leaving early after the Bank pilot is complemented by the Holiday, the SCT mounted the Memorial Wall, which features The day was wrapped up with This was followed up by Sqn MT battle bus and headed to the the names of the almost two stands. The first delivered Ldr Saunders and Mr Scott Battle of Britain Memorial, sited 3,000 fighter aircrew who by Flt Lt Ian Cummings and Coleman “examining the tactics on the White Cliffs at Capel-le- flew in the Battle, some with Flt Lt Masters was “compare and resources used by the RAF Ferne, near Folkestone, on the interesting stories and many and contrast the influences that and Luftwaffe during the Battle coast of Kent. Stopping briefly recognisable household names. senior officers (in the Luftwaffe of Britain”. This was related to on the 3-hour journey for a and RAF) had on the tactics of the previous stand, primarily quick comfort break, the team Also on the site are replicas the aerial battle fought and the because it provided further arrived in time to be welcomed of a Hawker Hurricane and political and public opinion of context and detailed the tactics by the trustees and for a spot Supermarine Spitfire, where these leaders”. This provided used by each side during the of lunch in the new visitor people can get up close to a clear outline of the Battle Battle of Britain. The debate centre called, The Wing. Built the life-sized models. After of Britain and the events highlighted the perceived in the shape of a Spitfire wing, the tour by the trustees of the leading up to it. The stands differences, and the historical it was opened in 2015 and is Memorial, the team entered highlighted the importance inaccuracies reported at the home to the exciting Scramble into the Scramble Experience. of the IADs, and the Battle of time, to intentionally mislead the Experience, as well a viewing The Experience includes a large France and Lowlands. Poor opposition into surrender. Whilst platform for the Memorial. interactive touchscreen, where planning was a huge factor in both were very broad topics to you can download almost the Axis failure, as well as over- open the week of activities, it The Memorial is a monument to anything relating to the aerial commitment. But the resolve was agreed that it was a good aircrew who flew in the Battle battle, including diary entries and determination of the British starting point for the activities of Britain. It is most notable and flying records. Despite people were underestimated to come later in the week, as we for the hill figure formed of a being a qualified commercial too. The strategy of winning sat on the gun embankments, large white propeller-shaped pilot, OC SCT failed to get off ‘hearts and minds’ is of huge in the sun looking out over base, with the figure of a the ground whilst playing on importance to modern the cliffs towards France, seated pilot at the centre, and the fighter pilot simulation, Operations. These lessons quietly reflecting.

WW: 30 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 This place was a poignant Museum and one of Britain’s British) was employed early Harrier was suspended in a reminder of those who gave largest aviation museums. on, and was significant in dynamic pose high above us their lives fighting in the air. It is However, at the outbreak of war giving early warning to attacks. all. The group highlighted how a quiet, special place, yet enjoys in September 1939, Duxford was However, the RAF were very advances in technology have far reaching views across the home to three RAF squadrons ineffective in the early days enabled UK forces to attack and English Channel. With France engaged on coastal patrol due to lack of aircraft, aircrew defend much more effectively, only 23 miles away, and within duties. From July 1940, Duxford positional reporting and the and thus prevent the large loss eyesight of the Memorial, saw considerable action lack of belief in Radar and of life that occurred during you gained a sense of how during the Battle of Britain as other advances in technology. World War II. It provoked debate perilous the Battle of Britain a sector station of RAF Fighter on modern LOAC and whether was. The enemy planes came Command’s No.12 Group Amongst the bustle of the the actions during the Battle from across the water with which played a prominent role museum and the rain falling on of Britain would be acceptable very little warning, and it was during the Battle of Britain. the roof, the team were nestled today: a deep topic of the grave responsibility of the amongst some of Duxford’s conversation for so early on in multi-national pilots to defend The stands started immediately larger exhibits including the day. Following a brief talk on the air and Britain. You can on arrival in the Airspace hangar Concorde and some of the the Lancaster by the museum never appreciate what some with Flt Lt Ainsworth and Miss technical advancements of the staff, the team explored the people have given for their Casey Algar “recognising the 4 modern military. This provided other collections of material country until you visit a place Air Power Roles articulated in Ms. Gail Moxon and Ms. Maria such as film, photographs, like this. Quite an experience. JDP 0-30, relating one of them Stone with an opportunity to documents, books and artefacts. to the Battle of Britain and “examine how technological Day 2 – Imperial War Museum the RAF”, which followed the advancement developed through Duxford was later used by Duxford, Cambridgeshire previous day’s stands nicely. It conflicts to the present day”, United States Army Air Forces firstly provided understanding making reference to many of fighter units in support of the Day 2 saw the SCT back on and context to stage long / the aircraft and weapons in daylight bombing of Germany: the Battle Bus and heading close range operations from the exhibition hall, such as the it was therefore a fitting site for north, this time to Duxford the UK. Radar (originally a Avro Lancaster which took pride the prize-winning American Air in Cambridgeshire. The site is German invention but first of place amongst the static Museum and for the final stand a branch of the Imperial War utilised effectively by the displays, whilst the Hawker of the day. Sqn Ldr Atherton

WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 31 “examined the role of the RAF in the US and the formation during the heart of the battle. station. Unfortunately, due to the partnership of nations during of the USAF after the war. During the previous stands the poor weather, we were the Battle of Britain comparing we discussed at great length unable to see any aircraft flying it to today’s partnerships”. This In keeping with the site’s the “Dowding System” and from the working airfield. was a moving stand, which history, many of Duxford’s the significant technological highlighted that many other original buildings, such as advancement it represented Day 3 – Bletchley Park, nations were involved in the hangars used during the during the Battle of Britain was Milton Keynes Battle of Britain, including Battle of Britain, are still in use. highlighted by everyone. Seeing those classed as deserters in Many of these buildings are how it all came together in the Day 3 saw a smaller team depart their country (France) and of particular architectural or Operations room was a good on the Battle Bus for Bletchley those who denounced their historic significance and the point to reflect, and soak up the Park, Buckinghamshire. Once own nationality (USA) in order day was rounded off with a visit atmosphere and surroundings the top-secret home of the to assist. It provided a telling to the 1940’s Operation Room. of the airfield and exhibits. World War Two Codebreakers, backdrop when discussing the The Operations Room was following significant number of Non-UK nationals the nerve centre of Duxford’s With a fantastic mix of investment, books, films and fighting during the Battle Battle of Britain. From here, the aeroplanes, including the TV documentaries, it is now a of Britain and how these men and women who worked Vulcan and Concorde, as well vibrant heritage attraction. It numbers have increased on the ground at Duxford as vehicles and tanks, the housed the Government Code with partner operations. In directed the station’s pilots into museum showed how people and Cypher School (GC&CS), particular, we covered the combat. The room was laid out lived, worked and fought for our which regularly penetrated non-national contribution as like any Operations room country. Duxford’s pioneering the secret communications of (Czech and Polish Sqns) at the from the summer of 1940 with and inspiring aircraft, military the German Enigma ciphers. time. Lt Col Gillman, the SCT equipment, charts and plans vehicles and exhibits, from the According to the official USAF Legal Exchange Officer, mapping the movements of iconic Spitfire to the record historian of British Intelligence, provided further clarification the aircraft in battle overhead. breaking Concorde, form part the “Ultra” intelligence produced on many of the US exhibits Over the audio commentary of its unmatched collection at Bletchley shortened the and individuals showcased, were sounds of a German air of aviation and military war by two to four years and including many of the aircraft raid, which gave a real insight history, in the unique setting without it, the outcome of used during World War II by to how the room operated of a frontline Battle of Britain the war would have been

WW: 32 WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 uncertain. Key cryptanalysts Deciphering German Luftwaffe at Bletchley Park during World Minister, Benjamin Disraeli and recruited by the British War messages was Bletchley Park’s War II and their contributions during World War II, home to an Office included linguists, chess first substantial contribution to the Air Campaigns and RAF intelligence base code- champions and top solvers of to the British war effort, and overall war effort”. This rounded named “Hillside” that carried out cryptic crossword puzzles, as helped predict the targets off the series of stands. The vital mapmaking for crucial raids these individuals had strong and routes of the Luftwaffe civilian contribution from including the sinking of Tirpitz lateral-thinking skills. Amongst bombers, which ensured that Bletchley Park has long been and bombing the Eagles Nest. them was local hero Dillwyn RAF fighter aircraft could underestimated, and only “Dilly” Knox, a papyrologist. ambush them on their way to the recent films and release Walking from Hurricane block, their targets. It also ensured that of protected information has past 3 Site, everyone reflected Arriving at the main gate the authorities on the ground enabled a wider understanding on the activities of the week. opposite the train station like could anticipate and prepare for of the units established at Detouring down a country all those codebreakers 70 the raids, limiting the number Bletchley during that time. track, the group soon reached years ago, we were introduced of deaths and the amount of Hughenden in time for the to the concept of Bletchley damage, so far as was possible. The stand highlighted that café to open. Basking in the Park with a short introductory Later in the war, decrypts made from an initial 2,000 people at sun, everyone was able to video at the visitor centre. The a significant contribution to the the start of the war, “Bletchley look back at specific moments aim of the day’s stands was to Allied bombing offensive over Park was growing faster than during the week and reflect. “examine the contributory role Germany, with the interception the rabbits could breed”. of the Cypher School to the war and analysis of transmissions Notwithstanding increasing effort”. In January 1945, at the from the German air defence Day 4 – Hughenden Manor, morale and welfare of those peak of codebreaking efforts, network minimising losses. False Buckinghamshire participating, the Staff Ride some 10,000 personnel (civilian broadcasts were also made to also brought to life a better and Service) were working at confuse the enemy system. Following three full days of understanding of Air Power Bletchley. About three-quarters Due to the lower numbers travelling and Staff Rides, it during the Battle of Britain, of these were women, and on the day, Flt Lt Bridge led was decided that the wash up which will no doubt lead meant Bletchley Park was the solo stand, discussing would incorporate a leisurely to an increase in output able to read huge numbers of the “factors that led to the walk to Hughenden Manor, the and a bonding of the SCT German Luftwaffe messages. formation of the specialist units former country house of Prime in the coming year.

WYCOMBE WORLD WINTER 2017 WW: 33 Are you looking for exceptional childcare?

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Alongside retirement Police heroes like mighty Caesar and Huntsman they provide sanctuary to horses, ponies and donkeys that need a second chance That first day of a new year is always special; many of the horses enjoy at life after suffering unspeakable cruelty and terrible ordeals. Their Home of meeting visitors, after spending their working lives surrounded by large Rest in Speen is a haven, a place where some of the UK’s hardest working crowds performing their duties on State occasions and ceremonies like Royal dedicated equine public servants get to see out their twilight years in Weddings, Trooping the Colour, The State Opening of Parliament and Royal tranquillity and where those who were badly treated can feel safe and Ascot. You can find all the details on the Events page of the website www. loved again. horsetrust.org.uk or by following them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ HorseTrust The Home of Rest for Horses is a beautiful spot with some of the finest views in the area and a great place to visit. For ten months of the year they are open Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays from 2pm - With the festive season just around the corner why not visit their online shop 4pm, but not in December and January. where you will find a host of stocking fillers and inexpensive gifts. One of the most popular is our fabulous new calendar which this year features stunning The Trust run lots of events throughout the year that offer fun for the whole images of some of our best loved residents. You can see the full range available family. While many of the activities are geared towards the younger members at https://helping-the-trust.horsetrust.org.uk/gifts/ and of course you can order of the family you can be sure there’s always a little something for the grown- online although with you being ever so close by it might be even easier to ups to enjoy. telephone the order hotline on 01494-488464 and we can arrange for you to collect. If you love all things Christmas, it’s just a shame you couldn’t join us on Sunday 26th November for the Neddy Noel event where you might have met Father We are proud of our long working relationship with the UK’s armed forces Christmas! There was a host of festive treats to enjoy; sadly, that was the and to attract many visitors from all around the world but we really enjoy last day of opening for 2017 but the gates will be open again to visitors on seeing new faces and it’s always a pleasure to welcome our friends and Thursday 1st February. neighbours from RAF High Wycombe.

The Horse Trust, Home of Rest for Horses, Speen, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0PP TEL: 01494-488464 WEB: www.horsetrust.org.uk EMAIL: [email protected] RAF Benevolent Fund Christmas cards are on sale now!

Help us to support the RAF Family. Order online at www.rafbf.org/shop or call 0300 770 1350 36

The RAFBF is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109).

RAFBF Xmas Card A4 27 Sept.indd 1 27/09/2017 12:48