INSIGHT

ISSUE 4

INSIGHTMAGAZINE 1
INSIGHT
ISSUE 4 2018
In this issue…

From the 09
Editor…
39 SQUADRON

Sqn Ldr Keith Bissett MSc BSc RAF.

EDITORIAL TEAM:
WAD-InsightEditorialTeam@mod.gov.uk
External Email:
Use personal email addresses listed
Tel: +44 (0)1522 728377
10
11
12
CADET VISIT

RAFA VISIT

NO. 56 SQUADRON EXERCISE

23 20
Editor: 14 HIGH FLYING SUPPORTERS RECOGNISED
Sqn Ldr Keith Bissett
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A XIII SQN
WAD-InsightEditorialTeam@mod.gov.uk
17 REAPER PILOT
Deputy Editor:
RAF100 BATON RELAY AT RAF
Flt Lt D.J Hopkinson
18 WADDINGTON
daniel.hopkinson524@mod.gov.uk

Welcome to this issue Artwork: 20 RAF100 FLYPAST

of Insight. S. Oliver

18 24
RAF WADDINGTON’S 100 STATIONS IN
Advertising by:
23 100 HOURS
Welcome to this issue of the Insight
Jo Marchant
magazine; my final as editor of the
Tel: 01536 526674 RAF WADDINGTON FRIENDS AND
magazine before I handover to
Sqn Ldr Craig LeDieu. It has been
24 FAMILIES DAY
an enjoyable experience bringing Designed by:
community news to the Station over 51 SQUADRON HISTORY UNVEILED AT
the last 2 years.
Amanda Robinson
amanda@lancepublishing.co.uk
26 RAF WYTON

In this edition we have news from 56

Sqn and their freedom parade, the
Published by: 28 AWARDS
Station Awards dinner and updates Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House,
from the many RAF100 events that Bath Road, Kettering, NN16 8NL 30 RUGBY LEAGUES
happened in June & July. Tel: 01536 512624 Fax: 01536 515481
www.lancepublishing.co.uk 32 THE BATTLE OF THE BARGES
As always we strive to include as
mike@lancepublishing.co.uk
many articles as we can from our THE ISTAR FORCE AT THE ROYAL
Station community. 33 INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO
Printed by:
Please get in touch through WAD- Lance Print Ltd
35

12 33
InsightEditorialTeam@mod.gov.uk or V(AC) SQN DACRE TROPHY
give Craig or Dan Hopkinson a call.

The magazine is entirely funded by advertising and costs the Station nothing to produce. Insight is not an official publication and, unless otherwise stated, views expressed in this magazine
On the cover: A 5(AC) Squadron Sentinel Flying over Buckingham Palace. do not necessarily represent MOD, RAF or Station policy. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the editor or publishers. Advertisements accepted
on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. Insight is produced by kind permission of the Station Commander, RAF Waddington.

4 INSIGHTMAGAZINE INSIGHTMAGAZINE 5
Station Commander’s
Foreword...
Gp Capt Tom Burke
MA BSc RAF
Welcome to Insight
magazine. I’m writing
this on what promises
to be the hottest day
ever recorded in the UK.
I
know the heat won’t last
and by the time you read
this, it might feel like
the summer of 2018 is long
gone. It certainly has been
an extraordinary season.
Political turmoil, Brexit
uncertainty, England making
the semi-finals and of
course the RAF100 national
events. The preparation
and participation in the
Parade, 104 aircraft Flypast,
Air Power Conference and
Royal International Air Tattoo
placed extra demands on
everyone in the RAF to some
extent, but I hope you agree
it was worth the effort.
We should all be very
proud of the style and
professionalism displayed
by every member of the
team and the fact that we
sustained high tempo air
operations throughout.
My particular thanks go to
often unsung Air Cadets
who supported local and
national events in huge
numbers with characteristic
enthusiasm and energy.
We’ve had several excellent
local events: the RAF100
baton visited the Station
– circling around most
of the unit; the Station
Awards Dinner – where
we recognised the best
amongst the Whole Force;
and various RAF100 charity,
8 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
39 Squadron
Presentation of Flying
Force Development and Wings and Honours
& Awards
Adventurous Training
events. Our Friends’ and
Families’ Day and STEM
engagement program
were bigger and better
this year as additional In June, 39 Squadron medal (LS&GC). This
RAF100 Engagement celebrated a significant marked a fitting end for
money was made available number of milestones
the Squadrons Warrant
from LIBOR funding. Officer who has departed
for its personnel. the Squadron to work in the
Reaper Force in Waddington.
T
The capstone event of
the RAF100 celebrations he experience levels, Corporal Bradshaw
was of course the one like any squadron, received a Commendation
hundred aircraft flypast vary and many for his excellent work as
over London on Tuesday 10 have thousands of hours an acting Sergeant and
July, concurrent with the of flying experience and Reaper Liaison officer in
presentation of the new RAF some decades of service Al Udeid, supporting UKRF
Colour, and the culmination in the RAF. The ISTAR Force operations on Op SHADER.
of the RAF100 Baton relay Commander, Air Commodore
– 100 days after the 100th Dean Andrew OBE MA MBA However arguably the most
anniversary of the Royal Air RAF, visited 39 Squadron at important aspect of the
Force as an independent Creech Air Force Base in Las ceremony was the award of
air force. What an amazing Vegas as Reviewing Officer the new Remotely Pilots Air
The
Generous Briton
achievement and day of for the Squadron’s Wings Systems (Pilot) brevets to the
celebrations – televised live. presentation and Honours & new ab initio members of
Awards event. the Reaper Force pilot cadre.
The flypast was the largest
gathering of the royal Personnel receiving honours Flying Officers Bennett,
family and RAF aircraft and awards included Master Cocks and Higgins were
since 1977 (the Silver Good Food - Good Beer - Good Company Aircrew Jim Tracey, who presented with their brevets,
Jubilee). The Station and received a total of three which were blessed by
the ISTAR Force were well awards; his Royal Warrant, Wing Chaplain Major Joel
represented with every Meritorious Service Medal Kornegay from the US Air
Squadron Standard proudly and a Clasp to the Long Force, prior to the Force
paraded down the Mall into Service & Good Conduct Commander awarding them.
the grounds of Buckingham
Palace for the ceremony
represented at the Royal
in front of Her Majesty
International Air Tattoo
The Queen. No V(AC),
static display at Fairford.
VIII, 14 and 51 Squadrons
joined the celebration as
I hope you have the
part of the 19-element
chance to enjoy the rest
display flying overhead
of the summer whether at
Buckingham Palace, spread
Waddington or deployed
over 9 minutes, then
away. We have some
splitting to the Runnymede
new challenges to look
Memorial, Heathrow Airport
forward to in the Autumn
and the RAF Museum.
as the Modernising Defence
Programme matures and
Not only did we successfully
we continue to build the
launch all the elements
of the RAF100 flypast but
Next Gen Air Force. 72 High Street, Brant Broughton, Lincs LN5 0RZ
every squadron was also For Faith and Freedom. 01400 272119 www.thegenerousbriton.co.uk
INSIGHTMAGAZINE 9
 Cadet Visit
Cadets from 127
(Wakefield) Sqn ATC
recently visited RAF
Waddington in order
to learn how a flying
station works and to
see the different roles
that ensure the Station
runs smoothly.
D
uring the visit
cadets visited 8
Sqn and a number
of sections and got to see
how day to day operations
are conducted. The cadets
received a capabilities brief
on the E-3D Sentry aircraft
before going on board to
see how the aircraft works,
followed by visits to Survival
Equipment Section (SES)
and Air Traffic Control (ATC).
SES are responsible for
providing flying clothing, life
jackets and life rafts, along
with a number of other
pieces of safety and survival
equipment, which allow
aircrew to carry out their
roles safely.
Fg Off Devreau shows cadets the inner workings of ATC, highlighting the key
role in ensuring aircraft can safely land and take-off at RAF Waddington.
10 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
RAFA Visit
Cadets visit 8 Sqn dispersal, learning about the role that Sentry carries
out within the ISTAR force.
ATC provides a crucial
service managing the
airspace around Waddington
ensuring that aircraft can
take off and land safely. of Waddington, Mr Tony Kiddle, Ex Sgt Pilot. Unfortunately the
your local supermarket serving the local community. 56 Sqn technician pilot was discharged a few
Visits like this are an hours prior to Tony visiting
opportunity for all to • Fresh Fruit & Vegetables • Cream Cakes and four esteemed but having signed into the
• Fresh Meat, • Groceries colleagues of RAFA
showcase the work they do to medical facility the pilot
the next generation, allowing Poultry & Fish • Frozen Foods Wisbech were hosted was informed.
cadets to hear about roles • Fresh Dairy Produce • Wines, Beers & Spirits by the RAF Waddington
within the RAF that they may • Chilled Ready Meals • Newspapers & Magazines Stn RAFALO team. He found Mr Kiddle at work
not be aware of. Equally it is a • Lunchtime Snacks • Flowers & House Plants on the flight-line and the
great opportunity for cadets • Freshly Baked Bread • Carpet Cleaning picture shown E-3D was
S
On board Sentry cadets see the work stations that
to gain knowledge of the RAF are operated in flight by a variety of different trades. tarting the visit at the silk scarf given to him
and its operations and an • Home delivery • Glass Loan the Heritage centre, by Sgt Atkinson in 1951 for
awareness and understanding • Cash Dispenser • National Lottery the guests were his kind gesture. In 2016
of the demands on people and • Celebration Cakes • Extended range now given a very insightful brief this was donated to 56 Sqn
aircraft across the Service.  (to order) available about the history of RAF as an historical exhibit.
• Payzone • Free Parking Waddington by Historian Mr Moving to 8 Sqn guests were
If you are interested in finding Chris Dean. Tony recalled hosted by Flt Lt Tidbury who
out more about the RAF Convenient opening hours: stories linking his time to 56 provided a walk around of
go to www.raf.mod.uk/ or Mon – Fri 7.30am – 10pm Sat 7.30am – 9pm Sun 10am – 4pm Sqn, of particular interest an E-3D and informed the
if you are interested in the Major credit cards accepted. was the story of the day he group of the intricacies of
joining the Air Cadets go to attempted to visit a downed working life in the Air.
www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets/
for more information. Bar Lane, Waddington Lincoln
01522 721970
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Fg Off Devreau shows cadets the inner workings of ATC, highlighting specialists. Experts in and trade. If you are looking for
the key role in ensuring aircraft can safely land and take-off at the sales, repair & Servicing spares, parts, repairs, servicing
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SAC Hart, a survival equipment fitter, briefs the cadets on the role 20a Market Place Tattershall Lincolnshire LN4 4LJ
of SES and the different equipment provided to aircrew. Telephone: 01526 344102
INSIGHTMAGAZINE 11
No. 56 Squadron exercise
their ‘Freedom of the District’ in
North Weald
On Sunday 10 June
18, No. 56 Squadron
personnel were able
to exercise their newly
acquired ‘Freedom
of the District’ in the
village of North Weald,
parading through
the village in this, the
RAF’s Centenary year.

T
he squadron - based
at RAF Waddington - is
one of the oldest and
most notable units of the
RAF, having played a part in
the Battle of France and the
Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.

The community were able

to enjoy the parade by 56
Squadron, a picnic, music
courtesy of the Epping
Forest Band and the band of
56 squadron ATC, as well as
a magnificent fly-past from
a Hurricane of the Battle of
Britain Memorial Flight. The
sunny day concluded with
the laying of the wreaths-
a wonderful tribute to
over 250 servicemen,
servicewomen and civilians
employed at the station,
who lost their lives in peace
and war since the airfield’s
inception, 102 years ago.
The ‘Freedom of a District’
is quite the honour, having
been a custom as far back
as Ancient Roman times, the
honour is granted to military
units which have earned
the city’s trust and as such
allows them the freedom to
parade through the district,
and is an affirmation of the
bond between the unit and
council with the community
of North Weald. The honour
was only very recently
bestowed upon 56 Squadron
by the Epping Forest District
Council on 24 April.
No. 56 Squadron stands to
remain as a significant part
of North Weald’s history;
whilst North Weald is no
longer an air base, it stood
as an important fighter
station during the Great War
and remains the spiritual
home of 56 Squadron having
been based there from 1927
until 1941.
Seeing the local community
turn out to show their
support in such numbers
was a proud moment for
the Squadron, further
strengthening the
relationship between 56
Squadron, North Weald and
Epping Forest District.   exercise our Freedom.”
Officer Commanding 56 Sqn
said:
“It is with a great sense
of pride that 56 Squadron
first exercised the
Freedom of its spiritual
home at North Weald and
marched on to its Battle
of Britain airfield on 10
Jun 18. Representing the
RAF in its centenary year
with a superb parade,
the Squadron further
reinforced the enduring
links between the Service
and the District of Epping
Forest – a connection
that goes back more
than 100 years. Made
to feel very welcome by
the local community,
56 Squadron personnel
were in high demand by
the residents, especially
for photographs! The
Firebirds all look forward
to the next time we

12 INSIGHTMAGAZINE INSIGHTMAGAZINE 13
High Flying Supporters Recognised
at RAF Welfare Charity’s Annual
Awards Ceremony
The RAF Benevolent
Fund’s annual awards
ceremony, in London,
celebrated the charity’s
generous supporters.
T
he recipients of 10
awards spanning RAF
Station of the Year to
incredible corporate support
were announced, watched
by an audience of RAF
personnel, including Chief
of the Air Staff, Air Chief
Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier
and beneficiaries of the RAF’s
leading welfare charity.
As in previous years, the most
hotly contested award was
the RAF Station of the Year
which went to RAF Marham.
Throughout 2017, personnel
from RAF Marham carried
out a host of fundraising
challenges, all in aid of the
RAF Benevolent Fund.
Personnel reached new
heights when they scaled
Mount Kilimanjaro, the team
galvanised public interest
and participation in events
such as the New Year’s Eve
10K and GEAR 10K and
they hosted many other
fundraising activities such
as quizzes, golf tournaments
and even a Tornado pull
during their Families’ Day.
RAF Marham’s collective
efforts have raised more
than £30,000 for the RAF
Benevolent Fund.
Air Vice-Marshal David
Murray, Chief Executive at
the RAF Benevolent Fund,
said: “The annual awards
ceremony is a highlight in
14 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
Award winners on the night.
Photo: RAF Benevolent Fund.
the RAF Benevolent Fund’s
calendar as it’s a chance for
us to champion all of our
wonderful supporters and
share the incredible stories
of the people they enable us
to help. This year’s cohort of
nominees and award winners
are all truly inspiring; their
creativity and endeavour
to continue to support our
charity is what inspires all of
us at the Fund to carry out
our mission of ensuring no
member of the RAF Family
faces adversity alone.”
Winners in the remaining
nine categories were:
Welfare Caseworker of
the Year, Michael Raw of
SSAFA, the Armed Forces
charity; Airplay Youth
Worker of the Year, Julia
Purton from RAF Henlow;
Outstanding Support from an
Organisation, the Worshipful
Company of Bakers with the
RAF Target Rifle Club; ATC
Squadron of the Year, No
723 (Wigan) Squadron Air
Training Corps; Corporate
Fundraising Activity of
the Year, Aston Martin
Cambridge; RAF Stations
Challenge Cup, Leuchars
Station; Above and Beyond,
Squadron Leader Ryan
Morris; Fundraising Team
of the Year, Team RAFBF
Cosford; Special Recognition
Award, Sue and Chris Beadel.
Chief of the Air Staff Air
Chief Marshal Sir Stephen
Hillier said: “The RAF could
not do what we do without
the support of the RAF
Benevolent Fund, who in
turn could not carry out their
vital welfare work without
the support of fundraisers
and corporate organisations
like those celebrated here
tonight. “It was an honour
to meet some of the
beneficiaries who have been
supported by the Fund and
to hear the impact the Fund
has had on their lives.”
Sue Beadel and her husband
Chris received the Special
Recognition Award for their
dedication and commitment
to raising vital funds for the
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charity which supported
No matter what age or mileage
them when their 25-year-
old son, Simon, passed
away unexpectedly.
On collecting her award,
Sue said: “We are so touched
to receive this award; it
means so much to us. No one
expects to lose a child but
when we did, the Fund were
there for us. It felt as though
they dropped everything to
be there for us. So for us we
wanted to give something
back but you don’t have
to have gone through
something like this to raise
money for charity.”
This is the sixth year
that the RAF Benevolent
Fund has recognised the
outstanding contributions
of its supporters, personnel
on stations and corporate
partners who support the
charity each year.
The awards ceremony, which
was sponsored by Lockheed
Martin, was held at Gibson
Hall, London.
 A Day in the Life of a XIII Sqn Reaper Pilot
You could be My day begins rather
early with an alarm at
task of the morning, filling
my coffee flask. I’ll see the
The first checklists setup
the box and configure the
similar system run via line of
sight. We contact this crew

in the Algarve,
0500 when I find the
courage to get up to
go to the gym. I’m not
Sensor Operator and Mission systems to work with the and let them know all the
Intelligence Coordinator satellites. After checklist relevant details they need
who will be my crew for the number 4 I’ll make a to plan the recovery of the
day and discuss anything telephone call to the other aircraft and run a couple of

relaxing in the sun...

a morning gym person
but I’m too fatigued to
train effectively after
a full day in the ‘box’.
of significance that’s
happened already such
as weapons employment,
emergencies etc.
It’s now time for the main
crew. There will be a formal
handover release message
them and a formal accept
message from us. From this
point onwards we are legally
responsible for the aircraft.
checklists. Once ready we
hand over control and the
aircraft is their responsibility.
Now we get in-briefed
by the Auth, have a crew

I
n a job where I sit down brief with presentations debrief and, if required,
all day it’s surprisingly from Squadron Operations, We fly the sortie as tasked by a weapon debrief. I will
Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own tiring, albeit mentally not Intelligence and Met the unit we are supporting sign the aircraft back in,
residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle physically. I finish gym by personnel followed by a that day. The typical complete all the relevant
of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and 0615, have some breakfast quick flight notes brief from tasking relates to combat paperwork, ensure there’s no
another 5 to the town centre). and then make my way to the Auth. We then complete intelligence, surveillance, further admin to do within
XIII Squadron for 0700; at our crew brief, discuss the target acquisition and the Squadron and leave to
It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven,
this time the aircraft are specific details of the day’s reconnaissance. This means the mess for some dinner.
microwave, toaster, fridge freezer and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The
lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, being flown by colleagues. tasking and talk through we investigate hostile I need to be in bed early
DVD ,CD player and WiFi are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors some potential emergency activity and then, if required, so I’m ready to start it all
which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. Firstly, I’ll ensure my crew scenarios. Then I, as Captain, prosecute with lethal again tomorrow. We work a
There is ample car parking space in front of the building.
has no currency issues fill out the Auth sheets and precision strike ordinance. 6 days on, 3 days off cycle
that will become prevalent we get an out brief from the When we reach our ‘off task so if you ever ask someone
www.algarve-retreats.com/property-to-rent/apartment-meia.htm during the out brief process, Auth. We then step to the time’ we begin the transit on XIII Squadron what day
PRICES: then sign for the aircraft box and begin the process home. As we near the home it is don’t be surprised if
Jan - March £225 and consider the clearances of gaining the aircraft. base we begin to hand the your first response is ‘day
April £300 the crews have been given aircraft back to the launch 4’. The Reaper is far from
May £325 by tactical air traffic control There are: 5 checklists, 5 and recovery crew. As the perfect but as someone who
June £375 safety switch crosschecks, aircraft has an inherent
so far and start building has joined the RAF to fly
July/August £475
Sept £375 my situational awareness. 2 phone calls, 4 people and satellite delay it’s extremely them I can honestly say this
Oct £325 some standardized text hard to land or take off. is my dream job and I feel
Nov/Dec £250 However, it’s not always messages (through a secure absolutely honoured to be
a single set of clearances text chat) needed to gain Therefore, there is a crew co- part of such an innovative
for a single aircraft that I the aircraft successfully. located in theatre who use a technological boom.
would be looking for. As the
aircraft has a phenomenally
long loiter time it would
be unbearable to keep
the crews in the box for
the entire sortie. As such
we have a unique ability
to relieve the main crew
witha ‘flex crew’. This crew
jumps between the different
control boxes giving each
dedicated crew a much
needed break. Therefore
it’s essential to know the
details of all of the aircraft
flying for that day.

Secondly, I check in with

the Authorizer (Auth) to
To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 make sure there are no
Apartments can also be booked very competitively at judith.hall6@btinternet.com short notice changes to
the program and then get Fg Off King, XIII Sqn.
into the truly essential
INSIGHTMAGAZINE 17
RAF100 Baton Relay at RAF Waddington
On 14th June, as part of the RAF’s centenary celebrations, the OC 14 Squadron, Wing
Commander Farrow rides
Squadron Leader Blackwell hands over to 51 Squadron.

nationwide RAF100 Baton Relay arrived at RAF Waddington via to V(AC) Squadron.

Lincoln Cathedral and the International Bomber Command Centre.

T
he Station Commander,
Group Captain Burke,
was greeted by the
Sub-dean of Lincoln who
then took custody of the
baton in the picturesque
setting of the Cathedral. The
Station has close ties with
the magnificent building - it
features on the Station crest
as it helped to guide crews
back home in World War II.
Group Captain Burke in
Lincoln Cathedral.
The baton’s journey
continued to the
International Bomber
Command Centre and saw
a member of 8 Squadron,
part of the Narrow Boat
Committee and personnel
from the Physical Education
Flight, getting their hands
on it. Whilst there, the team
were hosted by a tour guide
and told various stories
that captured significant
historical events. This
highlighted how important
the celebration of RAF100 is.
Stopping by the International
Bomber Command Centre.
After visiting the All
Saints Primary School in
Waddington, the baton
was delivered to Station
by the “100 stations in
100 hours” cycling team.
In formation, the team
rode on to the camp and
presented the relay baton
to the Station Commander.
Following a group photo
of BSW personnel, the
ISTAR Force Commander
and Station Commander
congratulated members
of the cycle team on their key part in the logistics of
fantastic achievement. moving the baton around
the Station, visiting every
Group Captain Burke said: squadron on the loop of
The baton relay has been a RAF Waddington; OC 14
great way of connecting the Squadron took the baton
Station to the community.  for a spin, 5 Squadron
RAF Waddington has always accepted the baton in front with the baton and saw the Waddington Fire Section
enjoyed close links to city of of their Sentinel R1 and 51 arrival of two airfield fire gave the baton a lap of
Lincoln.  It was a privilege to Squadron also welcomed the engines and their crews. honour around the camp
start the baton relay at the baton in front of the Rivet Finally, after the day’s prior to its departure.
Cathedral that is symbolized Joint with a team photo.  excitement, the RAF
on our Station Crest. We The Station personnel
were delighted the relay was To complete the day performed the final
seen by so many people in the baton was then lap of the Station with
the County, especially the handed to pupils of the the RAF100 baton..
next generation who will see Station Nursery from OC
us into our second century. Personnel Management
Squadron. There the
To maximise the availability children enjoyed the roar
of the baton on Station the of the motorbikes, had
Motorcycle Club played a photograph opportunities The nursery children enjoy time with the baton.
Wing Commander Cloke hands over the RAF100 baton Baton-Nursery Handover: Station RAF100 Project Officer,
to the Station Commander for its relay on Station. Squadron Leader Bissett hands over to Squadron Leader Schofield.

Cathedral_Baton_Outside : The Station celebrating

RAF100 with the Clergy of Lincoln Cathedral. The 100 stations in 100 hours ride onto the Station.

18 INSIGHTMAGAZINE INSIGHTMAGAZINE 19
The ISTAR Force Turn Out for the
RAF100 Flypast
One hundred days The holds over the North Sea
after the centenary allowed the crews to perfect
their timings – they had to
anniversary of the be on time plus/minus 5
formation world’s first seconds to be able to safely
independent air force, fly over the capital at around
over 100 aircraft took to 1000 feet above the ground.

the skies on 10th July, The ISTAR aircraft were

to form up for a special spread throughout the
flypast over London. formation and had a
secondary flypast objective

W
ith more than 1000
Service personnel
on parade on the
ground, and many hundreds
more taking part in the
commemorative service in
Westminster Abbey, as well
as the activities on Horse
Guards Parade, this was a
once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
On the ground, each of the
Station’s Squadron Standards
were paraded, along with
every Colour and Standard
in the RAF’s inventory. Over
100 Waddington personnel
were involved either on
parade, collecting for the
RAF100 Appeal or in another
official capacity. For those
on parade the 10 days spent
in ‘boot camp’ ensured that
they looked their best.
of overflying the Runnymede
Air Forces Memorial just
south of Heathrow a couple
of minutes after ‘saluting’
Her Majesty, and the
Colours and Standards of
the Royal Air Force, in the
grounds of Buckingham
Palace. Runnymede is the
Commonwealth War Graves
Commission memorial
commemorating over 20,000
airmen & women lost in
World War II who have no
known graves and overlooks
Heathrow Airport (formerly
RAF Heston).
It was estimated that over
100,000 members of the
public in Central London
came out to see the flypast
with approximately 65,000
in The Mall.

This was the largest

formation of aircraft to
fly over London since Her
Majesty The Queen’s Silver
Jubilee celebrations in 1977.
The ISTAR Force provided 2
Shadows from 14 Squadron,
one Sentinel from 5(AC)
Squadron, a Rivet Joint from
51 Squadron and one Sentry
from 8 Squadron for the
formation. The ISTAR aircraft
took to the skies from RAF
Waddington over an hour
before the flypast to take up
their holds over the North
Sea. Coordinating a flypast
of 19 elements, with over
100 aircraft flying over the
capital, is a complex affair
as the ground speed of the
aircraft varied from 90 knots
to over 300 knots causing
a concertina effect over
Buckingham Palace.

20 INSIGHTMAGAZINE INSIGHTMAGAZINE 21
 RAF WADDINGTON’S 100 Stations
In 100 Hours
Back in September
2017, during a cycling
outing, two Wing
Commanders from RAF
Waddington thought,
while battling into a
head wind, that it would
be good to do some
sort of cycling challenge
to celebrate RAF100.
pick up the RAF100 baton for
its tour of the Station.
After around 80 hours and
with over 540 miles on
the clock, neither could
remember which of the two
Wing Commanders exactly
came up with the words
‘physical, hard, challenge’
but they managed it. On
arrival at Waddington the
team presented the baton to
the Station Commander.

A
s they talked an
idea emerged.
One of the Wing
Commanders said: “Why
don’t we celebrate the
RAF’s 100 years by visiting
100 present and former
RAF Stations by bike in
100 hours.” The trip needs
to be physical, hard and a
challenge though…
 
Ten months later, after
months of long practice
rides, they set out to start
their mammoth task. The
team departed from Air
Command in RAF High
Wycombe on Sunday 10th
June and cycled around
100 miles per day taking
in various sites on the way
to RAF Waddington. They
took in sights including RAF
Bovingdon, Medmenham,
Uxbridge, and many Force
Development stops along
a very interesting one at
Bletchley Park, staying at
Halton and Scampton for
night stops during their tour
of bases.

The arduous ‘tour’ of the

RAF’s stations required
many stops along the way
to recharge the team’s
batteries; aided by their
support team with snacks
and drinks as well as several
cake & lunch stops later
an energised crew arrived
in Lincolnshire for the
last hundred miles. After
a circuit of the stations
in Lincolnshire the team
arrived in Waddington to

22 INSIGHTMAGAZINE INSIGHTMAGAZINE 23
RAF Waddington Friends and
Families Day 2018
After months of
planning, Friends and
Families Day 2018 finally
arrived and despite
some troubling early
forecasts, the weather
held for what was a
fantastic afternoon
of family fun on the
Sports Pitches.
W
ith the help of our
numerous industry
partners, Service
Charities, RAF LIBOR funding
and local sponsors, we
wanted to provide a fun-
filled, family orientated
event with a little something
for everyone.
In doing so, we hoped to
embrace the fantastic energy
of the RAF100 celebrations
to-date and capitalise on the
excellent work undertaken
throughout the year by
the Station’s Science,
Technology, Engineering and
Maths (STEM) Ambassadors.
This superb team of
volunteer ambassadors
provide a hands-on
insight into the fabulous
opportunities associated
with a career in STEM,
inspiring the next
generation of scientists,
engineers, mathematicians
and hopefully, RAF
personnel. On the day, the
opportunity to fly micro-
UAVs was a particular hit
with youngsters and grown-
ups alike!
Attracting more than 3000
people, Friends and Families
Day provided the perfect
opportunity for the wider-
Station community to come
together, relax and enjoy
a vibrant mix of live music,
24 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
children’s entertainment, Overall, it was a fantastic
fairground rides, living event made possible thanks
history re enactors, food, to the incredible support
drink and community of our industry partners,
outreach teams. With live Service Charities and
music performances by the local sponsors whose very
RAF Waddington Volunteer generous donations, allowed
Band and the Military Wives us to put on this much-loved
Choir, the stage proved a event. We hope you all had a
real highlight amongst the fantastic day and are looking
crowds, with the dancing forward to next year’s event!
lasting right until the
end of our headline acts’ Friends and Families Day
fantastic set. 2018
It was also great to see our
wonderful Service Charities
represented, furthering
the work of the RAF100
charitable campaign and
reaching out to the people
they support. We were also
proud to be able to invite
a number of local veterans
along, to join in the fun,
celebrate their contribution
and recognise the
important place they play in
our community.
Our very own Fire Section
were on-scene providing
invaluable fire safety advice
to our families and the ever-
popular Lincs and Notts Air
Ambulance, whose arrival
certainly proved popular
with the kids, were also there
supporting the day and
raising the profile of their
important work.
INSIGHTMAGAZINE 25
51 Squadron History Unveiled at
RAF Wyton
51 Squadron was based
at RAF Wyton during
its Cold War days from
1963, until it’s move
to RAF Waddington
in 1995, after which it
came “into the light” and
adopted the more overt
stature enjoyed today.
D
uring the Wyton era
the Squadron used
platforms including
the Canberra and Comet
before converting to the
Comet derived Nimrod R1.  position in the timeline.
In close alliance with 51
Squadron was Electronic
Warfare Avionics Unit (EWAU)
which later developed
into the Electronic Warfare
Avionics Detachment
(EWAD). The role of EWAD
was to design, develop and
build the complex avionics
housed on the Nimrod R1
airframe to enable its crews
to carry out its specialised
and complex tasking.
RAF Wyton has enjoyed a
rich history since the birth
of the RAF, from training
pilots, to being the centre of
excellence for Intelligence
Gathering in many varied
fields. To that end, a group of
enthusiasts wished to build
26 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
a fitting archive and display
of historic memorabilia in
well thought out displays. 
All this has been housed
within an old part of the
station infrastructure
(formerly a Barrack Block
then the Station library) to
finally become the Wyton
Heritage Centre. Inside
the 2-storey facility a very
interesting Wyton timeline
has been created by Group
Captain (Retired) Steve
Lloyd (formerly of the Air
Historical Branch), where
each room is linked to its
It was decided that the
display could be enhanced,
in the 1960s - 1990s area,
with a larger 51 Squadron
presence as the Squadron
was stationed at Wyton for
more than 30 years. Museum
curator, Jim Blackwood, set
Ron Hewlett explains the
purpose of equipment he
designed for the Nimrod R1.
centre stalwarts and former
EWAU/EWAD members, Alan
Palmer and Ron Hewlett,
onto the task of setting
up the SIGINT area and
commissioning a board
displaying the names of
the Officer Commanding
of 51 Squadron during
the 1963-1995 era. 
With funding, and donations
of items, from 51 Squadron
and 51 Squadron
Association, there are
now several declassified
artefacts on display.
On Wednesday 25 July 18 a
formal unveiling ceremony
took place with Station
Commander RAF Wyton, Wg
Cdr Rachel Dixon, receiving
the board from Sqn Ldr
Keith Bissett, Executive
Officer 51 Squadron. 
Also in attendance were
present and former
members of the Squadron
including Mr Dave Thorne,
ers
role of Offic
The unveiled 51 Sq uadron MAcr Glyn, MAcr ‘Spike’,
N o.
Commanding ) Mrs Sutton and the wider
1962 to 1995
(Wyton era enterprise including Wing
Commander Ray Smith.
MAcr ‘Spike’ looks at the recently declassified equipment where
he used to operate.
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Awards
RAF Waddington has
been celebrating the
exceptional people
that make up the
ISTAR Whole Force.
A
bespoke visit to
the International
Bomber Command
Centre was followed by
an awards evening with a
guest appearance by Phil
Vickery - a member of the
England Rugby Union 2003
World Cup winning squad.
There were several awards
categories ranging from the
Outstanding Team Award
to the Spirit of Waddington
Award, each one given in
recognition of how RAF
Waddington’s personnel
continue to make a significant
contribution to operational
output, take leading roles
in the community and
accomplish outstanding
sporting achievements whilst
continuing to provide world
class Combat ISTAR from our
home base and deployed
locations around the world.
Held in the Warrant Officers’
and SNCOs’ mess, the evening
was a fantastic finale to a
day of events attended by
award nominees, industry
partners, representatives from
the County Council, local
adult education providers
and station personnel.
Group Captain Tom Burke
(Station Commander RAF
Waddington) said:
“This evening has been
a great opportunity to
28 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
celebrate the achievements
and selfless dedication of
some very special people
from across the Whole
Force.  The RAF Waddington
awards nominees and
commendation winners
are exemplars of
professionalism, courage
and commitment.  They are
truly the best of us.  I would
also like to pay particular
thanks to the seven industry
partner organisations for
sponsoring the event.”
The Winner of the RAF
Waddington People’s
award is Pamela from
the Station Nursery
Pamela has managed the
Station nursery and kids’
club since 2013 transforming
the nursery and pre-
school club into a central
element that brings families
together. Pamela was
praised for making sure she
maximises the learning and
development of our service
children with a care and love
that is echoed throughout
her entire team providing
outstanding childcare.  It
is Pamela’s passion and
hard work that keep the
Station Nursery and kids’
club a safe, fun and loving
environment to learn in.
The Spirit of RAF
Waddington Award -
awarded in recognition
of overcoming adversity
to excel in personal and
professional excellence.
Awarded to Bob a Flight
Sergeant who joined the
Service in 1984 has served
in an engineering role for
a third of the RAF’s 100
years.  Diagnosed with
cancer in April 2017 Bob
has endured and continues
to receive complex
and lengthy treatment.
A personal choice, Bob
continues to work,
managing and supporting
his team to deliver
exceptional results. He’s
always upbeat, cheerful
and positive, and as many
of his colleagues have said
– Bob typifies all that is
great of a military man. He,
and his young family, have
bravely faced the challenges
put in front of them with
exceptional courage.
Also awarded the Spirit of
Waddington Award was a
small team of individuals
singled out for the support
and compassion they have
shown to Tom, a young
Officer diagnosed with a
terminal illness. Unable to
attend the event, Tom has
praised these individuals for
the care and consideration
they have shown for him
and his young family.
Processes have been put
in place to ensure that
the family have access
to medical and pastoral
support 24/7 and the team
have been there to help
with the difficult decisions
that a family must make
when faced with a terminal
illness. In Tom’s words -
“If there were medals for
kindness, these 4 individuals
should all be at the front of
the queue.  They have made
me feel like their priority
always and constantly strive
to ensure that my family and
I are being cared for. They
have never let anything get
in the way of helping me
and my family and continue
he has run a series of long fundraise for the charity first aid cover for station
distance events and has in local supermarkets, city events and carry out school
raised nearly £6000. centres etc. They also provide visits to educate children
regarding emergencies and
The Winner of the RAF dialling 999. Our scheme
Waddington Outstanding operates under the banner
Team Award is the Military Volunteer Lifesavers
Lincolnshire Emergency and are known throughout
described as innovative Medical Response Team EMAS as ‘RAF Responders’.
and is making a significant
difference already.  LEMR is a registered charity
set up to provide a rapid
The Winner of this years RAF and dynamic response to
Waddington Outstanding 999 calls across the entire
Contribution to Charity county of Lincolnshire. In its
is Stu, a Flight Lieutenant 20th year, LEMR is manned
to help me manage what with a passion for a charity by serving and ex-service
is a pretty grim situation.” close to his heart. personnel who give up
He’s completed a series their spare time to man two
The Winner of the RAF of charity events in aid of Rapid Response Vehicles.
Waddington Outstanding raising funds and awareness Fully equipped including
Sporting Achievement is for Duchenne Muscular ambulance markings and blue
awarded to Sam a Senior Dystrophy (DMD) in support lights, they are deployed by
Aircraft Technician. of friends of his who have a East Midlands Ambulance
little boy who suffers from Control as a regular asset, in
Sam is the Royal Air Force’s DMD.  Stu decided to set response to emergency calls.
only licensed amateur about raising money and On top of normal shifts and
National Hunt jockey; awareness of this condition. training, these volunteers
regularly competing in Over the last 12 months also give up their time to
nationally televised races
including prestigious
courses such as Cheltenham
and Sandown park. Self-
supported and funded he
has placed 14 times with
3 wins in his career.
Described as daring and
always competitive, Sam
has raced the Grand Military
Gold Cup 6 years running.
This 3 - mile race, held since
1841 over steeplechase
fences, is the pinnacle
of the Military racing
calendar with Her Majesty
the Queen as its patron.
The Winner of the
RAF Waddington
Resourcefulness and
Innovation Award is
Jillian, a Sergeant at
RAF Waddington who
has been praised for
her work as a Stress and
Resilience Champion. A
qualified Trauma and Risk
Management practitioner,
she has developed and
pioneered procedures so
that personnel have the
skills to identify and deal
with stress and resilience
issues. Jill’s work has been
INSIGHTMAGAZINE 29
Rugby League 9’s
RAF Waddington
Rugby Club hosted the
inter-station RAF Rugby
League 9’s competition
on Wed 18 Jul 18.
T
he competition has
been devised to
encourage more
players to try the sport and
ensure the game is being
played at Station level. This
is the third and final 9’s
competition culminating
in advancing the 4 best
teams into the RAF Rugby
League XIII Cup Final and
Plate respectfully.
Waddington Rugby started
the day well and had real
strength in depth across
the squad, so much so
some players were farmed
out to travelling teams to
ensure everyone had good
numbers. The competition
was in parts fierce and
exhilarating with some
strong displays of energy,
determination and mateship
were shown across all
the teams.
30 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
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Wg Cdr Gordon, Chairman
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presented the trophy and
exclaimed his gratitude to
Waddington for organising
such a well-received event.
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The Other Battle of Britain: The Battle of
The Barges
The period of August
and September 1940
was of huge significance
for the Royal Air Force.
J
une had seen the
evacuation of Dunkirk
and fall of France:
Britain was alone and facing
almost certain defeat at
the hands of Germany. The
German forces in France
spent July in reinforcement,
rest, and refit in preparation
for Operation Sealion, the
Invasion of Britain, and the
scent of victory was in the
air. However, the Germans
had to convince Britain to
surrender. Although a good
proportion of the battered
British Army had been
evacuated from France, it
had left behind its heavy
equipment and supplies.
However, an obstacle to
German victory still stood
in the way: the English
Channel. The Germans had
to cross the sea to bring its
victorious army to battle
and their High Command
hoped that an early British
surrender would lead to an
unopposed crossing. How to
achieve this?
Despite its ill-equipped
army, Britain still had two
vitally important assets to
prevent invasion: the Royal
Navy at its main base at
Scapa Flow, and the Royal
Air Force. Germany could
not invade while the RN was
able to intervene: its capital
ships greatly outnumbered
the Kriegsmarine and would
have decimated the invasion
fleet. Germany needed air
superiority for the Luftwaffe
over the invasion area to
allow its bombers to keep
the Royal Navy at bay – it
needed to destroy the Royal
Air Force before any invasion
could begin. The Battle of
Britain began in August
1940, with RAF Fighter
Command at its very limit
32 INSIGHTMAGAZINE
to keep the Luftwaffe at bay
before the final victory in
late September. The story of
the Battle of Britain is not
for these pages however –
we need to concentrate on
Waddington’s part in keeping
the invasion away.
As the Battle of Britain got
underway, the Germans
sailed their fleet of invasion
barges, loaded with troops
and supplies, to the Channel
ports and awaited orders to
transport the Wehrmacht
to England. These were not
the landing craft to be seen
later in the War – these were
large sea-going cargo barges
that in peacetime plied their
trade along the channel
coast and the German river
and canal systems. Most
were bulk carriers, converted
to carry troops and vehicles
by fitting a ramp to the bow.
They were slow, unwieldy,
and after being unloaded
in the ports were packed
together in their new
harbours waiting for their
time to bring the army over.
While the Luftwaffe engaged
with Fighter Command
during daylight hours, at
night, the aircraft of Bomber
Command went out to strike
the German invasion forces.
As part of No 5 Group, RAF
Waddington’s Hampdens of
No 44 Sqn were assigned
the barges moored in the
cross-channel ports as their
priority target.
The Battle of the Barges
got underway at the end
of August. The Waddington
crews were happy to get to
grips with packed shipping
in easy to find locations,
although the Germans
ensured that the ports
were heavily defended:
so great was the show of
searchlights and flak that
the crews referred to the
“Blackpool Front” and it took
considerable nerve to pick
out the target at night and to
accurately bomb the barges
from a relatively low altitude.
On the night of 7th - 8th
September 1940, intelligence
reports suggested that the
invasion barges were being
readied to move, and Bomber
Command went to full alert,
recalling all crews that were
on stand down. Three of 44
Sqn’s Hampdens, led by their
OC, Wg Cdr Reid, were tasked
to attack barges at Ostend.
Sgt Jim Taylor, Wg Cdr Reid’s
W/Op Gunner in this scratch
crew described the scene:
“Having identified his
target. Wg Cdr Reid climbed
to 1,000 feet, the worst
possible height for flak as
virtually all calibres could
get you up there! Almost
immediately we were
coned by searchlights and
pounded by what seemed to
be all the flak in the World
– light, medium and heavy.
Inevitably we were hit and I
was fascinated to see lumps
flying off our tail, that is
until lumps started flying off
my radio set right next to
me. Both the under gunner
and I fired off long bursts
at the searchlights, but as it
was almost as bright as day
over the docks, I doubt that
it made much difference,
although it did make us feel
better to be doing something
vaguely militaristic.”
Despite this very fierce
opposition, the attack was
successful and Wg Cdr Reid
was awarded an immediate
DFC: his citation for the
award read:
“One night in September
1940, this officer successfully
carried out a dive bombing
attack on an assembly of
barges in Ostend Harbour.
On arrival over the target
area he made reconnaissance
runs at an altitude of 1,000
feet, during which he
selected the most vital parts
to attack. He then climbed
to 6,000 feet and made
a dive attack to 500 feet,
obtaining direct hits on the
target with a stick of eight
250lb bombs. During the
preliminary runs and in the
attack, intense anti-aircraft
fire seriously damaged
his aircraft, affecting his
controls and shattering the
pilots’ compass and the rear
gun hatches. Despite these
difficulties, W/Cdr Reid
pressed home his attack with
great determination and skill,
showing complete disregard
for his own safety.”
The action above was
typical of the attacks carried
out during this period by
Waddington’s bomber crews.
At the end of the Battle, in
addition to Wg Cdr Reid’s
DFC there were DFCs for Sqn
Ldrs Collier and Gardner; Flt
Lt Eustace, and Plt Offs Jones,
Lewis, and deMestre. There
were DFMs for FS Clayton and
Sgts Wintle, Chesters, Collins,
and Ayton. It wasn’t always
one sided – seven of 44 Sqn’s
Hampdens failed to return
during the battle: 18 aircrew
died and 5 became prisoners
of war.
Bomber Command’s
achievement during the
Battle of the Barges was
vital to Britain’s survival. On
12th September, Admiral
Raeder reported that “…
the harbours at Ostend,
Dunkirk, Calais and Boulogne
cannot be used as night
anchorages because of the
danger of British bombing.
Further delays are to be
expected in the assembly of
the invasion fleet”, and on
17th September, German
High Command ordered that
invasion shipping should be
dispersed in order to reduce
losses. The Battle of the
Barges had been won.
Every September, we
remember the Battle of
Britain and pay tribute to
the 550 pilots of Fighter
Command who died during
the Battle of Britain…
perhaps we should also
remember the 790 aircrew of
Bomber Command who died
during this same period.
Footnote: a painting depicting
Wg Cdr Lewis’ attack currently
hangs in the foyer of
Waddington’s Officers’ Mess. A
print from this painting is in the
Sgts’ Mess.
German invasion barges in Boulogne
Harbour, September 1940.
Wg Cdr Reid (bending over), with
other personnel of 44 Sqn in
May 1940.
Wg Cdr Reid (bending over), with
other personnel of 44 Sqn in
May 1940.
The ISTAR Force at the Royal
International Air Tattoo
The Royal International Sentinel, 51 Squadron Rivet
Joint and a 14 Squadron
Air Tattoo (RIAT) at
Shadow. There were also future
RAF Fairford this elements of the ISTAR Force out
year celebrated the in force to inspire the audiences
RAF’s centenary as of RIAT: The P-8A Poseidon,
manned by many members of
part of our RAF100 our RAF maritime ‘Seedcorn’
commemorations and crews, and the new Protector
held 100 days after the Remotely Piloted Air System,
made the journey over the
centenary itself.
Atlantic from the United States
of America for the air show.
T
he RIAT team
It is unusual to gather the
encouraged mass
ISTAR Force together for any
participation from
event and even more so for
the RAF, as part of over 300
an airshow – this was the UK
aircraft, that travelled to
Rivet Joint’s first airshow.
Fairford for the show over
Visitor numbers for the event
the weekend of 13-15 July.
exceeded 185,000 over the
weekend and many people
The RAF showing was
stopped to have a tour inside
impressive. In addition to
a Sentry or talk to the crews of
the RAF Sports Teams, RAF
the Sentinel and Rivet Joint.
Police, Mountain Rescue
Teams, and other ground
demonstration there was a
mass of RAF aircraft in the
‘RAF Village’. As part of the
‘RAF Village’ the ISTAR Force
supplied an 8 Squadron
Sentry, 5(AC) Squadron
INSIGHTMAGAZINE 33
 Subscribe for FREE V(AC) SQN Dacre Trophy
Online at www.easyresettlement.co.uk
On 13 June 2018 the Throughout the trophy’s
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Awards Ceremony was has won the coveted title
held at Halton House on no less than seven
Officers’ Mess. previous occasions.
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…is proudly
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…is proudly
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ir Officer awarded in 2005 onwards
and subsequently fell into
Spring 2013, £Free Summer 2013, £Free Autumn 2013, £Free Winter 2013, £Free

RESETTLEMENT
Commanding
BE YOUR
skillforce
FRom mESS
Room to
(AOC) 1 Gp, Air abeyance; however, in 2013,
ResettlemeNt

whaT iS
logistics?
ClaSSRoom
Many Service
leavers want their ResettlemeNt
RESETTLEMENT

FRAUD & OWN BOSS

an industry that next job to make a
Fit ACCIDENT For many leaving the service the temptation
Gp Capt Phil Dacre (retd)
Vice Marshal (AVM) Gerry
to be your own boss is tempting
welcomes former service difference P8
INVESTIGATION
personnel because of
their transferable FoR TRAINING
RolE RMH has been a

agreed on behalf of the

skills P18 ResettlemeNt RESETTLEMENT

Mayhew announced that

training investigator
ENhaNcEd hospitality
Careers in Health
and Fitness
Put since 1992 XTHREE
SURVEILLANCE
lEaRning CAREERS iN
youRSElF PURVEYORS
Dacre family to revive the
cREdit elc fuNdiNg HOSPiTAliTy
FRom FoRcEs
News
schEmE
all the information wANT FoR tHE
SERviCE
lEavER
ResettlemeNt
A FutuRE in tElEcomS
FoR SERvicE lEAvERS
in tHE
FRAmE
ON FACT
the winners of the 2017/18
To civiliaN liFE
lord ashcroft asks
you need to
know P38 TO TRAiN ilM delivers learning and The industry predicts a very
NEWS

THE WINNERS annual competition and

Dacre Trophy (for best Sqn
ARE…
veterans: how can we development for today’s managers healthy growth pattern For a Future in Photography

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headiNg
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in 1 Gp) were No V(AC)

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chaRity
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and contact details on the
various charities. P14
fRaNchise
Chris Davis Service and Technical
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pest control technician P28
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P32
locksmith traiNiNg
loCking in to
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locksmiths provide a range of services P26
Talented Military Veterans Recruited
by Nationwide Building Society in
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SkillS
in Close Protection
AmbulAncE
SEctoR
Opportunities for Training and
Jobs in the Ambulance sector
Sqn of RAF Waddington. reflect the Royal Air Force
Sqn Ldr L’Abbate, Senior of today. And so, after a gap
News resettlemeNt avaiatioN work placemeNt News ResettlemeNt ChaRity ResettlemeNt RESETTLEMENT EDUCATION CHARITY ELC SCHEME
The new State Pension, The transition from the Higher apprenticeship takes Would be IT professionals, beware of Hermes, the leading Diver Safety is Paramount says Combat Stress is the UK’s Downland Cycles Training There are many courses Preparing for a new role in civilian Firebrand Training provides the fastest The MoD’s Enhanced Learning
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Career Opportunities for Armed Forces Personnel Summer 2013 Easy Resettlement Magazine 1 Career Opportunities for Armed Forces Personnel Autumn 2013 Easy Resettlement Magazine 1 Career Opportunities for Armed Forces Personnel Winter 2013 Easy Resettlement Magazine 1

of over 8 years, V(AC) Sqn

w E a R E a l S o o Nl iNE: w w w. E a s Y R E s E t t l E m E n t.c o m w E A RE A l S O O Nl iNE: w w w. E a S y R E S E t t l E m E n t.C o m w E A RE A l s O O Nl iNE: w w w. E A S y R E S E t t l E m E n t.c o m W E A RE A L S O O NL INE: W W W. E A S Y R E S E T T L E M E N T.C O M

Engineering Officer (SEngO)

V(AC) Sqn accepted the
award on behalf of all
Plus your chance to be part of our £100,000 free training - squadron members.
See partner companies in the centre pages. The Dacre Trophy was
created by Air Commodore
George Dacre and his
wife Mrs Elizabeth Dacre
Copyright: alphaspirit in memory of their son
Kenneth, who was killed
in action over Germany
www.forcesrecruiting.com in 1943. First awarded
in 1952 to the “…regular
squadron of Fighter
Command showing greatest
Leaving the armed forces? proficiency in weapons
training…” it is a Bronze
Looking for training? casting of three classical
archers, representing
Need a Job? military skill and expertise.
became the first recipients
of the Dacre Trophy in the
modern era in recognition
of their outstanding
achievement and sustained
contribution to operations
in Afghanistan and their
highly effective bilateral
collaboration supporting
French military forces
in Mali.
Speaking of the award, Wg
Cdr Holland, V(AC) Sqn’s
Officer Commanding said: “
“This is an incredible
achievement for V(AC)
Squadron and the Whole
Force that recognises the
hard work and dedicated
ic a l a rc h e rs
th re e cl a ss
o p h y, a B ro n ze o f is e .
T h e D a cr
e Tr d e x p e rt
ry sk il l a n
p re se n ti n g m il it a
re
effort of everyone, past
and present: Engineers, HR,
Force has contributed to
this success and we are
CIS, Ops, Pilots, Mission extremely proud of this
Crews, our industry partners achievement. The award
and the support units at of the Dacre Trophy also
RAF Waddington. recognises the sacrifices
that our families and friends
During the last year, every make every day; without
single member of V(AC)
Squadron and the Whole
them we simply wouldn’t be
able to do what we do.”

The glass keepsake

trophy presented to
V(AC) Sqn.

Sqn Ldr L’Abbate, SEngO V(AC) Sqn receiving the keepsake glass
trophy from AOC 1 Gp, AVM Gerry Mayhew, flanked by the ISTAR Force
Visit www.forcesrecruiting.com for a smoother transition whilst going through your resettlement!
Commander and Station Commander RAF Wadddington.

INSIGHTMAGAZINE 35