THE RAF CONINGSBY JOURNAL onetoone · Kettering NN16 8NL. Tel: 01536 512624 Fax: 01536 515481 ... professional displays. An exciting summer awaits for us all and in ... hands on tour

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THE RAF CONINGSBY JOURNAL

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4 CONTENTS ISSUE 2 2017

STN CDR’S FOREWORD Group Captain Michael Baulkwill

Editorial & Distribution Team

EditorFlt Lt Colette McGinnDeputy EditorFlt Lt Daisy Tidbury

DistributionLead: SAC Jason KnightDep: SAC Paul BraleyTeam: SAC Dean Bruce

Printed ByLance Print LtdTel: 01733 390564

PublishersLance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering NN16 8NL.Tel: 01536 512624 Fax: 01536 515481 Email: [email protected] www.lancepublishing.co.uk

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Design Amanda Robinson

AdvertisingJo MarchantLance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering NN16 8NL Tel: (01536) 526674

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TIME CONTINUES TO FLOW AT PACE AND I PASS 6 MONTHS IN COMMAND, I AM STILL OVERWHELMED BY THE SUPERB EFFORT AND OUTPUT THAT THE STATION PROVIDES.

N umber XI (Fighter) Squadron have just returned from a very

successful Op SHADER tour, whilst Number 3 (Fighter) Squadron are currently on Op BILOXI in Romania.

The Station’s support to our units and those from other stations remains superb, and we continue to impress all who visit Royal Air Force Coningsby, thank you.

The display season has started and so once again, both the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Number 29 (Reserve) Squadron Typhoon Display will thrill the

public with their exciting and professional displays.

An exciting summer awaits for us all and in particularly the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight who are celebrating their 60th Birthday this year.

They have provided outstanding service throughout those 60 years and they are firmly in the hearts of the Nation, a National Treasure! To you all; enjoy the summer, I hope that you can take some well-deserved time off to relax and recharge, you all thoroughly deserve it.

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Editor’s Foreword • Flight Lieutenant Colette McGinn ISSUE 2 2017

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FEATURESPride 08Families Party 08Castle Club Love 10Smiling Sid 10RAF Coningsby Nursery New Build 11

SQUADRON NEWS

29(R) Sqn 123(F) Sqn 14XI(F) Sqn 1641 TES Sqn 18

PEOPLE AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Marathon Motivation 22One Man and his Ferret 23

ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING

Ex FLAMMING BUZZARD - MT 24A Day in the Life of FES 25

BAE AND SPORT/ATBAE at RAF Mount Pleasant Airfield 28Ex SNOW EAGLE 28

YOUTH AND CHARITY Coningsby & Tattershall Scout Group 30 Tattershall Brownies 31 No 17 (Coningsby) Sqn ATC 32 Heckington Juniors FC Visit 33SSAFA 33

BASE SUPPORT WING Deployed Service Families Event 26Padre’s Pause 27

T he winter blues have faded, the spring is still in my step and the jumper is finally off ;

time for us to start planning the all important summer holidays with our families and friends. Many don’t get to spend their summers together due to the usual rotation of operational deployments, exercises and courses etc, and often the family homestead carry on as normal but with a noticeable gap in their lives. It has been said so many times and you’ll notice the theme throughout this edition, how important the never-ending support of families and friends are to us all. The peace of mind someone far away can get from being safe in the knowledge that everything at home is in good hands makes it that little bit easier to be away. We are fortunate here at Coningsby to have a large and supportive community who often act as a

second family, both in and out of work.

Before signing off to find some rays, I must say special thanks and farewell to SAC Jack Welson, who has provided us with many excellent images from the photo section over the past couple of years and will be sadly missed. SAC James Skerrett steps into his shoes and I believe in addition to being behind the camera – he doesn’t mind being in front of it either.

Happy sun-seeking, Ed

SAC James Skerrett

ISSUE 2 20176

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Post OfficeNow open,

Mon - Sat 6 - 6pm Sun 6 - 4pm

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Market Place, Tattershall01526 348822

Barrack News

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Full framing service. Large selection of open and limited edition prints including aviation prints.Passport ID Photos taken.

Full Engraving Service - Trophies, Hip Flasks, Tankards engraved to your specification • Squadron Crests etc.• Ideal leaving gifts • Quick Turnaround

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We are understanding of service personnel detachment and postings and therefore offer a proportional refund up to a maximum of 50% if you are posted. If you are detached

for 3 months or more we will credit you with 3 months membership against the following year. In all cases official written proof of posting or detachment must be provided.

N.B. Follow South Kyme Golf Club on Facebook and supply your email address, we will email you a voucher for a free round of golf (T’s & C’s Apply)

Existing South Kyme Members who introduce new members to full membership (over £300) receive a £50 credit to spend in the club shop, bar or restaurant.

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Century InnLittle people eat freeMon-Friday 6-7pm

Wednesday nightSteak Night 22oz t-bone,8oz fillet or 10oz sirloin

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88 FEATURES ISSUE 2 2017

I have been married to my RAF husband for nearly 15 years. Since then we have seen

the Jaguars at Coltishall, the Predator in Las Vegas, the Tornado at Leuchars, the Chinooks at Odiham and the Typhoons at Coningsby. We have had 7 homes, my 10 year old has had 6 houses!! We have been at Coningsby the longest of anywhere. We have laid down roots. We have met lots of lovely people and made lots of fabulous friends. I have watched friends babies grow, start nursery and get ready to start school. How do I leave a place I feel so happy and settled?

I do so with a very heavy heart. When I met my husband he was doing his Avionics further trade training at Cosford. There is an old favourite, and sometimes hated, saying “Well, you knew what you were getting into when you married him!” In my case this is true. My husband and I talked a lot, over one or three bottles of whisky, about what life would be like for me

as a WAG. He wasn’t far off in his explanation. He underestimated quite how heartbreaking it is to leave family and friends to move time after time. He didn’t know how heartbreaking it is to see your children cry because they don’t want to move and leave their friends, no matter how much they may understand why we have to move. What he didn’t know is how much the housing situation would change over the years. Over the last 15 years the condition of the SFA houses has not changed.

So why do we keep moving with my husband? Why do I keep taking my kids away from their friends? Why do I put my family through living in SFA housing? The answer is simple. We are a family. We are a family of four within a wonderful RAF family. We are very proud to be part of the RAF family and we appreciate everything our lives as a RAF family brings.

Karolyn Lamb

PRIDESO, ITS THAT DREADED TIME AGAIN. TIME TO LEAVE FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND MOVE TO A NEW PART OF THE COUNTRY. TIME FOR MY CHILDREN TO LEAVE THEIR FRIENDS AND CHANGE SCHOOLS, AGAIN.

FAMILIES PARTY

HEROES BAR WAS RECENTLY HOME TO ANOTHER FAMILIES PARTY, HOSTED BY THE JUNIOR RANKS COMMITTEE, BUT AS USUAL, OPEN TO ALL RANKS.

Lamb Family

T his time, in a break from the regular format (and possibly for the first and last

time that Jim will allow a skunk in his bar!) it was attended by Oreo and Friends, an exotic animal encounter.

Kids and parents, got up close and personal with all manner of critters and creatures; raccoons, snakes, hedgehog, meerkats, a tarantula. The children (and most parents) were brave enough to feed and handle all the animals. All fingers were gladly accounted for at the end of the night! Those of faint heart hid in the main bar and enjoyed the music or had their faces painted instead.

Once again the Heroes team served up some great food offers, kids eating free with adult main meals amongst the regular deals. There were also some great raffle prizes donated which are unique to RAF Coningsby, with a flight in the Typhoon simulator and a hands on tour of the fire section, so thanks to those involved. As ever, whilst becoming better and better attended by families, future events depend on the support from the community.

Please come along to the next one in July and the ever popular Halloween party planning is well underway and promises to be a spooktacular affair!

Thanks to the recent backing of the Community Team, these events are also free for deployed families. The biggest thanks of all goes to the lovely people who help out, especially on the night, without whom, these would not be possible.

Rachel Patchett

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10 FEATURES ISSUE 2 2017

SMILING SID SIGN

A t a recent Annual General Meeting the parents articulated that they had

noticed a significant increase of traffic and speeding in the area and it was only a matter of time before someone was hurt. 

The Nursery and Kids Club Management Team and Officer Commanding, Squadron Leader Nikki Duncan investigated possible solutions; after a plethora of research and lengthy engagement with external stakeholders, they decided that a Smiling Sid Speed sign would be the best option not only for the Nursery and Kids Club but also the local community. 

Following a consultation with Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership they agreed to a trial period and upon completion of the trial it was noted that there was a 30% reduction in traffic speed during the trial period. 

It was then agreed that this would be the best course of

action for the community – it was now just up to the Nursery and Kids Club Committee to work out how to pay for the sign! 

RAFA has significant links to RAF Coningsby and the wider community and they were more than happy to provide a grant to pay for 50% of the sign.  Subsequent charity events and support from friends and family of the RAF Coningsby Nursery and Kids Club enabled the nursery to raise the other 50%. 

The sign has now been active for some months and it is pleasing to note that the Whole Force ‘friends and family’ community has noticed a positive reduction in traffic speed.  

Without the support from RAFA and the friends and family community, it would not have been possible to purchase this sign - which if you are familiar with the area, you will agree it has been an overwhelming success.

CASTLE CLUB LOVE

J anet had gone with her friend on a free girls only bus that went from

Skegness to RAF Coningsby. Keith had also gone with his friend and it was the first time they had been as neither of them were in the RAF and only a few of the local lads were allowed in. The dance hall was full of people enjoying dancing to a live group. They met on the dance floor and Keith and Janet danced the night away until it was time for Janet to catch the bus home.  They agreed to see each other afterwards and got married later that year in September 1967, it really was the swinging sixties for them. They now have a son, daughter and their three grandchildren.

They’ve often thought over the years about trying to re-visit The Castle Club but as it was on the base they thought that it wouldn’t be possible. However, they had a chance meeting in 2016 with a long

lost niece Sarah. Her partner Flt Lt Kev Page, based at RAF Waddington, was able to help Keith arrange a surprise visit for Janet to visit RAF Coningsby and have lunch at very same “Castle Club” (now known as Heroes) for the 50th anniversary of the first time they met. They both remembered it well as it was mostly unchanged after all these years. Keith & Janet would like to thank Kevin & Sarah and Audra Bishop at RAF Coningsby Hive for giving them another lovely day to remember.

THE RAF CONINGSBY NURSERY AND KIDS CLUB

IS SITUATED ON THE RING ROAD OF A BUSY

HOUSING ESTATE.

KEITH & JANET COBB MET IN THE “CASTLE CLUB”  AT

RAF CONINGSBY IN FEBRUARY 1967 (50 YEARS AGO).

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RAF CONINGSBY NURSERY NEW BUILD

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T he Stn Cdr, RAF Coningsby Nursery staff, children and contractors

in front of the new building which will enhance RAF Coningsby Nursery current facilities. Due to be up and running by the end of the year and situated behind the Community Centre; it will provide much welcomed space for 3 & 4 year olds and the Kids Club.

The foundations are down

As the building goes up

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12 29(R) SQN ISSUE 2 2017

29(R) SQN

Cpl Liam O’Keeffe

THIS ISSUE, WE’D LIKE TO GIVE YOU A SMALL INSIGHT INTO WHAT LIFE IS LIKE FOR SOME OF OUR MOST

IMPORTANT SQUADRON MEMBERS - THE PARTNERS AND FAMILIES OF

SERVING PERSONNEL ON 29(R) SQUADRON.

W e have interviewed Rachel, wife of Cpl Liam O’Keeffe

about her experiences as “OC Home Command!”

Tell us a bit about yourself?My name is Rachel O’Keeffe and I am a full time mum to 3 boys: Sol (12), Theo (9) and Lochlan (5). We have been at RAF Coningsby for 3 ½ years.

What is your husband’s job?Liam is a Corporal on 29 Squadron who specialises on the mechanical side of the Typhoon. He has also been a member of the Typhoon Display Team for the past 2 years. Prior to this, he was a member of The Red Arrows. We met when he was working on Sea Kings at RAF St Mawgan.

How long have you been a “supporting member” of the RAF?Liam and I have been together for 15 years and married for the last 14, so I have followed him around the RAF for over a third of my life!

What have been the main challenges for you and your family?The main challenges arise when Liam is deployed. He has recently returned from 4 months in the Falklands and it has been tricky dealing with the boy’s behavioural changes and mood swings. The car and washing machine always seem to break down whilst he is away as well!

Have there been any unique opportunities for you or your family as RAF dependants?My biggest perk so far was getting a back seat flight in a Red Arrow Hawk. I got to experience G forces and aerobatics, which was an opportunity of a lifetime!

What experiences of the military support network have you had?This year, whilst Liam was away, was the first time I used any of the support offered by the HIVE. Family members of deployed personnel had a tour of 29 Squadron and I also went to the Mothers’ Day lunch. A few years ago, I was taken ill in hospital and the RAF flew Liam home from America to be with me.

What advice would you give to other families in a similar situation to you?There is support available for families; however, you have to put yourself forward for it by visiting the HIVE.

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Coningsby St Michael’s Church of England Primary SchoolSchool Lane, Coningsby, Lincolnshire, LN4 4SJ

Tel: 01526 342312 Email: [email protected]: www.coningsbyprimary.co.uk

Coningsby St. Michael’s CofE Primary School is a caring and positive school where every child is nurtured and valued. We aim to develop ‘whole’ individuals and promote independent learning. Our topic and learning question approach to teaching the National Curriculum ensures entitlement for all children to an enriched learning experience, appropriate to their individual needs. The Church School values we teach the children are the foundations to our school and underpin our curriculum. Our values this year are: Forgiveness; Perseverance; Thankfulness; Truthfulness; Friendship and Compassion. We teach the children values for life through these making links to bible stories enabling our children to make choices and decisions, both in and out of school.

Teachers strive to create purposeful and stimulating learning environments, both inside the classroom and by using our generous school grounds. The curriculum is enhanced through a range of visitors into school and a variety of trips throughout the year, as well as a range of extra-curricular activities.

We aim to offer all the children who come to Coningsby St. Michael’s CofE Primary School opportunities to help them learn new skills and develop these in areas of interest and enjoyment. All achievements are celebrated enthusiastically and parents are encouraged to share these with us. School should be an exciting experience, enjoyed and remembered. We hope your child is happy at Coningsby St. Michael’s CofE Primary School. Together with you, we work hard to ensure they are.

We are a small village primary school with enthusiastic and committed staff, all prepared to ‘go the extra mile’ to provide a learning experience that your child will enjoy and remember.

learn together, work together,

succeed together

Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted 2016

Breakfast Club available from 8am every day

‘Children make good progress and behave well’ Ofsted 2016

Visitors are welcome, please contact us on

01507 568304 www.mareham.lincs.sch.uk

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Holy TrinityChurch of England Primary School

TattershallOur school, which has a strong Christian ethos, is a happy place where children enjoy learning and playing together.

We pride ourselves on academic achievement and the quality of our relationships within the

school and the wider community.

We offer a ‘Bluey Club’ for Service families and a New Pupil Mentor for all families joining our school.

Visits to the school are very welcome.Telephone: 01526 342349Email: enquiries@holytrinity.lincs.sch.ukwww.holytrinitytattershall.co.uk

14 3(F) SQN ISSUE 2 2017

3(F) SQN

crew in

Protecting the skies on Op BILOXI

Jet Departing for Op BILOXI

AS 3(F) SQN ENTER THE SUMMER MONTHS IN THE MIDST OF ANOTHER OVERSEAS DEPLOYMENT, THIS TIME TO THE SUNNY SHORES OF THE BLACK SEA IN ROMANIA, IT USHERS IN A SUMMER OF DISJOINTED OPERATIONS.

As 3(F) Sqn enter the summer months in the midst of another overseas

deployment, this time to the sunny shores of the Black Sea in Romania, it ushers in a summer of dispersed operations. Half the Sqn will remain at home to take care of the regular business of training and workups as well as the constant UK QRA requirement, while others will regularly rotate to and from Romania. As always this will leave many families alone at home and we on the sqn remain eternally grateful to them and the invaluable support they provide. But as the BBQs at home burn and frosty beers flow, 3(F) Sqn are providing a real punch to NATO defences by bolstering the Romanian QRA effort on the south-eastern border of the NATO alliance, only a couple of hundred miles from Russian-held Ukrainian territory.

This will be the RAF’s first venture to Romania in many years and thus a lot of preparation has had to go into the setup of the detachment. An early reconnaissance of the proposed site revealed that there was a lot of

work to do to make it suitable for Typhoon ops, including planning to deal with the many half-stray dogs and cats all over the airfield! Mihail Kogălniceanu Airport (MK), 3(F) Sqn’s adoptive home for the summer, has a lot of Cold War history and equipment on show, but once you look beyond the austere location you can begin to appreciate what Romania has to offer. Reasonably priced food and drink has been a great way to appreciate the local culture not to mention led to some questionable dance moves by OC A Flt, Sqn Ldr Hanson. However, beyond the local entertainments there are many interesting training opportunities. Mixed formations with MiG-21 LanceRs is a chance that few will want to pass up and the upcoming prospect to conduct air combat with those same MiGs will be an exciting first for many on the Sqn.

Importantly, 3(F) Sqn is in Romania to conduct serious business. The mission is de-escalatory, however, presence is an effective way to show solidarity for our allies on NATO’s south-eastern flank. Only time will tell how busy

3(F) Sqn will be in their primary role of supporting the QRA effort in Romania.

As always, change is constant on the Sqn and we fondly bid farewell to both Sqn Ldr Pete ‘Pikey’ Walker and Sqn Ldr Mark ‘Robbo’

Robertson, who leave for exciting new challenges. Joining us are Sqn Ldr Dan ‘Slim’ Shaw and Flt Lt George Hibbert. The whole of 3(F) Sqn are looking forward to a challenging and exciting summer and we wish the same for you.

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3(F) SQN

Jet Departing for Op BILOXI

Tel/Fax: 01526 342045

www.tattershallprimary.lincs.sch.ukenquiries@tattershallprimary.lincs.sch.ukTattershall, Lincoln LN4 4QZ

At Tattershall Primary School we work in close partnership with parents and carers to help all children achieve their full potential in a happy and caring learning environment.

We set high expectations for learning and behaviour and continually strive to raise standards through providing a relevant, varied and stimulating curriculum.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed.Please contact Mrs A Porter or the headteacher Mrs J Davey who will be pleased to show you around the school and answer your queries.

Headteacher: Mrs Janette Davey

TattershallPrimary School

Our children were invited to play their brass instruments at The Royal Albert Hall.

Bardney Church of England and Methodist Primary SchoolHenry Lane, Bardney, Lincoln, LN3 5XJ01526 [email protected]• Happy children, happy

parents, happy staff• Consistently outstanding

results and progress• Established RAF

nurture groups• Small class sizes

• Breakfast club from 7:30am and afterschool club until 5:45pm

• Teaching assistants in every class

• Positive church school ethos

What our parents say about us…“A great place to start life’s learning”

“Small, personal, friendly school. The headmaster knows all the children’s names”

“Good quality teaching and excellent facilities for the children”

“The children are happy to come to school and really enjoy being here”

“Opening the door to learning”

- NEW NURSERY CLASS OPENING SEPTEMBER 2016 -

16 SQUADRON NEWS ISSUE 1 2017

T he hours are long in

Cyprus; on average a day shift lasts at least 12 hours

and night shifts last until the jets are ready for the next day, whatever that entails. All are in positions of leadership, from the top to the bottom, working hard to maintain a high standard of output from their people, while handling the fluctuations that inevitably come with operational deployments.

While pilots can visit loved ones as they return to the UK every 7-8 weeks for simulator currency sorties, the engineers, squippers, operations and intelligence staff are deployed for the entire 4 months (and the rest). This has a strain on life that is hard to quantify. Without the love and support from our families back home this would not be doable; it gives the people the energy that allows us to maintain the high tempo of the job.

As spring continues the weather is heating up and thunderstorms still turn up out of the blue to hassle engineers and pilots. The battle rhythm timings change and every week there are new situations to understand.As the ground forces make

AS XI(F) SQN CONTINUE TO BRING THE FIGHT TO THE SO-CALLED ISLAMIC STATE, WE MUST TAKE STOCK OF THE MASSIVE SUPPORT WE’VE HAD FROM OUR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS.

significant gains, if somewhat slow in built up areas of Mosul, the disposition of friendly and enemy forces alternates. The pilots must stay at the top of their game to keep track but we are ably supported by our resident Ground Liaison Officer. “Megatron”, as he is known, has now returned to the UK on promotion to take the enviable title of ‘Goat Major’, but he, and his furry upper-lip friend, will never be forgotten. We thank him for his sterling work in keeping us informed in the best way possible

to enable us to complete our missions.

Whilst away, life goes on at home and families continue to grow; in the last three months we’ve had 3 new arrivals to 3 different members of the Squadron. The end of the deployment is in sight and the Squadron members will soon return to their families with a bit of a tan and an Arms t-shirt to boot.

In the meantime XI(F) welcome on board Sqn Ldr Jamie ‘Noz’ Norris, whom some of you

will remember from his display season flying the Typhoon a few years back. He takes post as one of our executives while Wg Cdr (as he is now) Cockroft departs to higher climes. We must also say farewell to Flt Lt Leroy Jenkins and, in my last article for the Sqn, to me! Jenks leaves to become CEO of Anger Management UK Ltd while I start my new career as a professional food taster - at least I’ll get paid for being this massive from now on.

Flt Lt Bobby Neaum

XI(F) SQN ISSUE 2 201716

Air refuelling overhead the Operational Theatre

Communication headsets enable a quick flow of information between pilot and engineer to start up and depart efficiently

17

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W ith a vibrant mix of valued military personnel and

civilians, and an upbeat working environment, squadron life on ‘41’ has that definite family atmosphere. Over the past few months, it has been just as evident as ever with a healthy balance of training, socials and deployments.

Ex HIGH RIDER 17-1 saw a relatively small trials detachment to China Lake, USA in March. Three Tornados were joined by with a small Typhoon contingent utilising aircraft from II(AC) Sqn – already in the USA and hot off Ex GREEN FLAG WEST 17-4. As usual, the tight-knit

detachment, including aircrew, engineers, squippers, GEF, C4I, logs, admin, ops and analysts who worked hard to achieve, but also made time for the all-important down time. This included the locals – from our friend Shane at ‘Enterprise’ to the local footie team. Aside from the BBQs and FD trips, there was an all-important rematch of a football game played during HR 16-2 in which 41 Sqn had lost 3-2 …

Freedom Park in Ridgecrest, in blistering 28 degree heat against local team Caesar’s Centurions. The game started frantically, with an early goal by Sgt Zenko. The next forty minutes were spent pinned in our

own half defending numerous attacks on goal. An unfortunate concession from 41 only ten seconds in; however, we soon gained the upper hand with three excellent goals. The Centurions then made it 4-2 from a rebound. SACs Dan Laing and Lowell ‘Sergio Ramos’ McKnight started causing problems for the opposition. Elliott played a 50 yard ball for Zenko who made it 5-2. The Centurions responded for 5-3. Leckenby won a free kick, which Zenko curled into the top right corner. Finally, a long ball finished well past Taylor made it 6-4. A hard slog in the heat and 41 had avenged the earlier loss!

Fitness and Family FunOrganised by Flt Lt Laura

Frowen, over 40 sqn members and their families congregated in Woodhall Spa on a mild Sunday in February for Lunch at The Inn. Preceded by a meandering dog walk around the woods, it was a wonderful opportunity to catch up and socialise! Always enthusiastically promoting group fitness and the family atmosphere, Laura’s next venture is the Sqn Sports Day on 25 May. Including white water rafting, mountain biking, clay pigeon shooting, archery, golf, high ropes and a football match against our American colleagues from

41 (R) TES ISSUE 2 2017

41(R) TES

FAMILY, FRIENDS, FITNESS, FOOTBALL & FREEDOM FRIESThree combat aircraft together as one happy family

Ex HIGH RIDER Social

Ex HIGH RIDER FOOTBALL TEAM

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Lakenheath, we are all excited to come together for a day of sport before a 41 Sqn All Ranks Dining In Night (with a hundred attending!) that evening. Family and Friends First – washed down with NLP and ‘brainberries’…..

As a sqn, we have had a few events lately that have been a stark reminder of the importance for all of us to look out for one another and take care of our own physical and mental health. With well-being a sqn priority, we look forward to the upcoming Stn led ‘Mind, Body and Soul’ events. 41 Sqn SEngO’s wife, Sarah Preston, has been flying the flag for Alzheimer’s Society, raising over £1000 in the recent Milton Keynes Marathon. A family affair, his daughter Isabelle has raised hundreds and donated her long flowing locks to the Little Princess’ Trust – how impressive! 41 Sqn XO, Major Muller, has been keeping a pastoral eye on us all and we will be taking a leaf out of his book – literally! Maj Muller’s reading list comes highly recommended and we’d like to share a couple with you:‘Making a Good Brain Great’ – Dr. Daniel Amen.

This book gives you the tools you need to optimize your brain power and enrich your health and your life in the process. Based on years of cutting-edge neuroscience research and the experiences of thousands of people, provide a wealth of practical information to

teach you how to achieve the best brain possible. It’s never too late to start!‘Change Your Brain, Change Your Life’ Dr Daniel Amen -

This book offers simple techniques which will help you to: Quell anxiety and panic; fight depression; boost memory; conquer impulsiveness and learn to focus; and stop obsessive worrying.

Flt Lt Jo Murray

Sarah Preston at Milton Keynes Marathon

A

Banovallum School Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6DA. [email protected] 01507 522232

s a smaller secondary school we are fortunate to know each of our

students as individuals and are able to cite successes for every one of them within and beyond the curriculum. As well as a clear academic focus, we recognise that education is about the wider opportunities and I am fortunate, as a Headteacher, to have a dedicated staff who always go the extra mile for our young people.

We are proud of our Young Enterprise winners, our Project X winners, our Duke of Edinburgh achievers, our Anti-bullying ambassadors, our dramatists, musicians, Sports Personality winners, Literacy Leaders, and young writers who launched their first published book last yea r .

The school is led on the principles of

hard work and collaboration and our partnership with Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School allows us to extend those principles even further. Our Academy status has facilitated great improvement to the school environment. We encourage visits from parents and carers to come and see for themselves our inspiring and positive learning community.

©LW

The Banovallum School

Open Days Our Year 6 Open Evening is scheduled for Wednesday 20th September 2017. Open Morning tours are available week commencing Monday 25th September 2017. Further details are available from the school office.

Banovallum SchoolBoston Road, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 [email protected] 01507 522232

20 ISSUE 2 2017

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22 PEOPLE AND ACHIEVEMENTS ISSUE 2 2017

MARATHON MOTIVATIONSPERSPECTIVES ON SETTING A GOAL AND STICKING TO THE PLAN TO TRY AND ACHIEVE IT.

M any can attest to the fact that the Marathon is an arduous

challenge. Combining this with the potential to run the English qualifying standard for the Commonwealth Games and you have a recipe which is going to be both testing and risky, yet with the prospect of a fantastic reward. I think my experience at the London Marathon in 2017 has relevance to both sport and wider skills, and hope is something to which people of all abilities can relate.

Having run 2:17 in my first marathon back in 2014, I felt achieving the 2:14 English qualifying standard was a realistic goal for this attempt. Doing so would need a thorough and extensive training programme, with mine having commenced

in Oct 16. Although the goal was realistic if the training went to plan, unfortunately the realities of being on a front line Squadron put paid to the necessary preparation. The working day meant I rarely trained during working hours, and opted to complete sessions before work in an attempt to ensure they were achieved. Combining this with routine deployments and flying supervision duties was a challenge and resulted in a significant amount of my quality mileage being lost, and an uncertainty over my form leading in to the race.

On race day, the weather forecast suggested near perfect conditions and many were hopeful for a fast day in the Capital. The excitement and adrenalin combined with a

tailwind over the first few miles was likely to mean a swift start and splits being somewhat ahead of the schedule. Experienced coaches and athletes will advise that you ‘cannot bank time in a marathon’, meaning that going out hard is unlikely to prove fruitful later on in the distance, since the fatigue of the early pace will result in your ability dropping off later on.

Noting the goal, I opted to latch on a group containing both pacemakers and athletes of a comparable standard to myself. However in doing so, I failed to stick to the game plan which was more conservative and would have seen me go through the 5km mark somewhat slower than 15:26, a split which

suggested a 2:10 finishing time rather than the already stretch target. Not sticking to the plan at this early stage was likely to cost me dearly and highlighted the need to focus on the goal rather than being lured by what seemed to be the right thing at the time. I stuck with the group through to the 9mile mark where I elected to drop back, logic and reasoning overcoming the excitement and glory which had driven me to go so hard from the outset. Of those runners who stayed in the group, none of them achieved the intended Commonwealth standard, likely due to the early pace.

My splits for the remainder of the race steadily slowed and by half-way my time had

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slipped just outside the goal. Consistency is key though for the marathon and continued focus meant I held this 2:15 pace for a considerable period through Canary Wharf and towards the final 10km. In doing so I started to pass a number of other runners who had remained in my initial group. Others dropped out, whether through injury or fatigue, highlighting another important lesson: to continue to focus on the aim despite what may have gone before. Although I too slowed in the final sections, the performance was sound and accelerated towards the end to finish in 2:19:54, 32nd overall and 12th British athlete. Granted someway outside the goal, but considering the preparations and uncertainties going in to the race, a credible achievement which bodes well for the future when supported by a more appropriate level of training.

The London Marathon is used as both the RAF and Inter Services Championships; I placed as first male in both competitions and nearly 6 minutes ahead of my nearest rival, though unfortunately our combined time failed to retain the Team title as the Army proved to have more consistency across their squad. The event provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the RAF within a high profile event: television coverage of our group

throughout the first half provided excellent coverage of both the RAF vest and the RAF Athletic Association prime sponsor, the Royal British Legion. The Team are grateful for their support and that from the RAF Central Fund, since without them the sports of Distance running, Track and Field, and Tug of War would be far lesser supported or invested in. Moving in to the summer, the Association will now focus on the Inter-Services Championships on the Track, Field and Tug of War, all of which will also provide athletes an opportunity to progress to UK Armed Forces representation and international competitions. The future is bright and strengthening across all cadre.

Competing at this standard is highly valuable to me due to the development it serves as both an athlete and in personal skills. The numerous takeaways are relevant in sporting and work environments, and to personnel of all abilities or levels, since although my finishing times may be somewhat faster than the majority, the themes around their achievement remain the same. In the case of my experience this year though, my lasting memory will be that a risky strategy is likely to reap rewards, but needs to be bounded by realism: straying too far beyond is likely to compromise the goal.

Sqn Ldr Ben Livesey

ONE MAN AND HIS FERRET…

MT DRIVER, SAC CHARLIE HAMMERTON COMPLETED A CHARITY TREK ACROSS HADRIAN’S WALL WITH HIS THREE YEAR OLD PET FERRET ‘BANDIT’.

N ormally a five day trek, Charlie accompanied by Bandit, started

on 10th April and walked across the famous Roman structure in just over 3 days, to raise money for St. Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich and the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association, after his mum died earlier this month from the disease.

Charlie said before the challenge, “After the tragic passing of my mum just days before Mother’s Day I’ve decided to fund raise for the

condition that took her life. 1 in 300 people will suffer from motor neurone disease, which is incurable, that’s the equivalent of 1 victim per average size cinema audience. Me and Bandit, my pet ferret, will be walking the length of Hadrian’s wall in as little as 3 and a half days. The money we will raise will support patients, families and research into MND.”

Charlie & Bandit raised over £4K for their chosen charities, well done!

24 ENGINEERING AND LOGISTICS WING ISSUE 2 2017

T he MT requirements for Ex FLAMMING BUZZARD started on 13th March 17.

This was a large operation and it comprised of two full articulated trucks a day, travelling from RAF Coningsby to RAF Leeming. This took MT eight full artic loads to get all the required equipment to RAF Leeming before the aircraft arrived.

All of the MT drivers were fully briefed by the MTO and MT control staff on their responsibilities and to fully adhere with driver’s hours regulations at all times. Over the course of the week MT transported in excess of 100 tonnes of GSE and support equipment ready for the arrival of 29 Sqn.

The movement of equipment for this exercise would not have been possible without the close cooperation and help from Sgt Parks, 29 Sqn Unit Movements Officer, Sgt Wood and Sgt Tilston from the movement’s flight; between them they arranged the GSE, aircraft spares, tools and other equipment required for the Ex. The planning and safe loading of the equipment was carried out by MT personnel under the supervision and guidance Sgt Haith, SNCO MT Control and the JNCO’s within MT TT&L.

During Ex FLAMMING BUZZARD, and to cause less impact on the Sqn, MT was required to ensure that all of

29(R) Sqn’s vehicles were serviced and in date with their MOT’s for the duration of the Ex. This was successfully arranged by MT Control Staff and completed by the White Fleet contractor.

To alleviate the burden on ASMT at RAF Leeming, SAC’s Millott, Mallpass and Johnson from RAF Coningsby ASMT deployed as Ex support to assist with the delivery of aviation fuel and keep the Ex running efficiently.

The same loading procedures and movement of vehicles was in place for the return of the equipment back to RAF Coningsby. The last Artic load returned to RAF Coningsby for unloading on the 6th April 17.

In support of Ex FLAMMING BUZZARD, MT covered a total of 4,160 miles to transport the equipment to and from RAF Coningsby and RAF Leeming.

LAC Gray

EX FLAMMING BUZZARD 29(R) SQN BOLTHOLE

LOGISTICAL MOVEMENTSIN ORDER FOR 29(R) SQN TO KEEP UP THEIR OPERATIONAL CONVERSION UNIT COMMITMENTS WHILST RUNWAY IMPROVEMENTS WERE BEING CARRIED OUT AT RAF CONINGSBY, IT WAS PARAMOUNT THAT THE SQN COULD DEPLOY TO RAF LEEMING FOR A PERIOD OF TWO WEEKS.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF FORWARD ENGINEERING SQUADRON

“Forward Engineering Squadron (FES) is a shining example of ‘Whole Force Concept’ at squadron level. FES is a diverse mix of

engineering specialists, civilian and military, regular and reserve, working together to support the RAF Coningsby Mission.

Whether maintaining Survival Equipment to protect our valuable aircrew, preparing explosive ordnance or engines for our aircraft, maintaining and

repairing Airfield Support Equipment, repairing vital airfield support vehicles, supplying critical engineering test equipment, maintaining and supplying Small Arms for Force Protection, or capturing RAF life though the eye of a lens, we are

involved in literally every aspect of RAF Coningsby’s day. FES is truly engineering diversity at its best. Great environment, great people, great Squadron!”

Sqn Ldr Wilf Martin, Officer Commanding Forward Engineering Squadron.

“ENGINEERING DIVERSITY AT ITS BEST”

Aircraft Techniciansmaintaining an EJ200 Typhoon Engine

Survival Equipment Specialist preparing an Ejection Seat Parachute for packing

Survival Equipment Specialist maintaining a Typhoon pilot’s ‘HMSS’ Helmet

RAF Photographer carrying out engineering photography

Aircraft Technicians maintaining an EJ200 Typhoon Engine

General Engineering Technician welding aircraft componants

General Engineering Technicianmaintaining the runway arrestor cable Aircraft Technicians

maintaining an EJ200 Typhoon Engine

Armament Technician maintaining an SA80 Assault Rifle

Survival Equipment Specialist conducting‘on-man testing’ of Aircrew Equipment Assemblies

26 BASE SUPPORT WING ISSUE 2 201726

COMMUNITY TEAM LOOKING AFTER DEPLOYED SERVICE

PERSONNEL’S FAMILIES

T he aim of the visit was to provide families with the opportunity to have an

exclusive tour of a typhoon, chat to the Community and Welfare teams and lunch in the WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess.

On a cold Friday morning 64 personnel of varying ages, babies to grandparents, were met by Ann and Audra from the HiVE, escorted onto the waiting coaches and transported to 29(R) Sqn. On arrival the families were welcomed by OC PMS, Sqn Ldr Nikki Duncan, the Community and Welfare teams and WO John Hooper (29(R) Sqn), who had kindly volunteered to host us for the day.

The highlight for many of the families, apart from the Community Support goodie bags and the refreshments, was the brilliant tour of the typhoons provided by Cpl’s Cave, Palfree, Ross and SAC Sharpe. Family members sat in the typhoons and lots of pictures were taken and although the families were reluctant to leave the typhoons, the simple line ‘your fish and

chips are ready’ saw the families quickly move to the waiting buses! As always the food in the WO’s & Sgts’ Mess was exceptional and the lunch provided another chance for families to share their experiences with other families and chat with members of the Community and Welfare teams.

The Community Team could not have ‘pulled’ off this very successful event without the support of 29(R) Sqn, WO & Sgts’ Mess, Police Flt, Photogs; Coningsby truly is ‘awesome’. On a serious note, having had the opportunity to chat directly with the families, the Community and Welfare teams left with their heads full of ideas of how we might provide more for families when our service personnel are deployed. Reoccurring comments from the families were “it is nice not to have to cook”, “I will not need to cook dinner now”, so with that in mind we worked quickly and closely with ISS to organise a Mother’s Day lunch. Once again the response was unbelievable and nearly 70 personnel got to sample a lovely roast cooked

expertly by Laura (Heroes) with a choice of desserts. As always, the service and execution from Julie Sandiford and her Heroes team was outstanding and it was another community event that was very well received by our families.

There is now lots on the horizon, so please make sure you keep your family informed of what is going on, especially if you are going to be deployed anytime soon.

What do you need to know... simply, when you are sat in your UPLOAD brief, make sure you ‘OPT IN’ – if you ‘opt out, your family will miss out’

A sample of what is to come:18th Jun – Father’s Day Lunch11th Aug – 3(F) Sqn visitIf you have any ideas or suggestions for future events, please contact the HiVE on ext 7868.

Comments received from families after the events.Just wanted to say thank you to everyone involved for the event this morning. My Mum and I had a lovely morning and felt really welcomed by everyone.

We all really enjoyed our Mothering Sunday Lunch and my son said what a good idea it was as I didn’t have to cook on Mother’s Day.

Thank you so much for a lovely lunch last Sunday. It was very kind of the staff to give up their time to organise this and it was very much appreciated.

I just wanted to say what a lovely idea I thought it was and great to organise something for mums and kids while our husbands are away.

THE COMMUNITY TEAM INVITED THE FAMILIES OF DEPLOYED SERVICE PERSONNEL TO RAF CONINGSBY ON FRI 24 FEB 17.

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T he lyrics of Pharrel Williams have echoed in many a persons’ audio

space since its release in Nov 2013 especially when it became the soundtrack to the film ‘Despicable Me 2’. And it’s one of those songs that if you’re not careful you can find yourself singing irresponsibly to whilst forgetting to maintain the British stiff upper lip!

Life can often get in the way of us being happy; we get dealt a rotten hand, suffer misfortune or we’re just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Life in the forces also brings about its own stresses, frequent postings, deployments, accommodation and childrens’ education can all often affect our contentment. Having just moved my family to Coningsby as I start another posting I understand this all too well!

So how is it that as Brits we find it so hard to share our emotions and let people see

the ‘real’ us, the tears as well as the laughter, the pain as well as the joy?

The Bible helps us to understand the value of contentment in life for we see what the apostle Paul had to stay;

’Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.’So how can we be content?

Surround yourself with people who make you laugh.  Forget the bad, and focus on the good. Love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don’t. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living. 

MY PRAYER FOR YOU TODAY THEREFORE:

May there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.… and clap along if you feel like that’s what you wanna do!

Padre Chris Carré

Padre Chris Carre

The Padres are looking to run ‘The Happiness Course’ on station; two half-day sessions focussing on what makes us happy in life; success, relationships and purpose. If you would like more details please contact the Chaplaincy Centre on: 01526 347995/[email protected].

BECAUSE I’M HAPPYCLAP ALONG IF YOU FEEL LIKE A

ROOM WITHOUT A ROOFBECAUSE I’M HAPPY

CLAP ALONG IF YOU FEEL LIKE HAPPINESS IS THE TRUTH

BECAUSE I’M HAPPYCLAP ALONG IF YOU KNOW WHAT

HAPPINESS IS TO YOUBECAUSE I’M HAPPY

CLAP ALONG IF YOU FEEL LIKE THAT’S WHAT YOU WANNA DO

28 BAE AND SPORT/AT ISSUE 2 2017

AT RAF MOUNT PLEASANT AIRFIELD

TYPHOONS BASED OUT AT RAF MOUNT PLEASANT PROVIDE SECURITY FOR THE FALKLANDS ISLANDS, THE SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS AND SOUTH GEORGIA. The Falklands are a remote South Atlantic range of islands, with rough terrain and harsh weather, temperatures often hitting minus 20 degrees. As part of the Typhoon Total Availability Enterprise contract (TyTAN) BAE Systems will mitigate risks to the Typhoon aircraft based at RAF Mount Pleasant, as well as make significant cost savings by sending out personnel to the Falklands base to deliver essential scheduled primary maintenance to the jets.

Four teams of eighteen personnel will be based in the Falklands Islands for two six month periods to deliver the maintenance work. By providing the maintenance work on-site at Mount Pleasant and instead of the aircraft making the journey to RAF Coningsby’s Typhoon Maintenance Facility, the aircraft will not only have less flying hours, but will not have to encounter the risks of a 17 hour flight, which also requires a significant amount of expensive and limited logistical support.

The team will be using IMS to help them deliver the maintenance work needed, IMS is a maintenance planning system that provides information

on the steps and time it takes to complete individual tasks. Through IMS the team will also be linked to the TyTAN team at RAF Coningsby, ensuring they have updated information at all times.

Jase Edwards, Operations Team Leader said; “It’s a great experience for the guys to go out to the Falklands and experience the culture. The Falklands is ‘Stornoway times ten’, there is only 2G mobile and all of the food is frozen and transferred from the UK, it was a real shock to the system the first time I went out there! We prepare the teams by briefing them on the accommodation, the facilities, the scope of work and also by sharing stories of past experiences out on the islands”.

To ensure the health and wellbeing of the deploying personnel, as a company BAES have ensured that along with the briefings robust welfare support is available to the personnel 24/7.

Richard Hamilton, TyTAN Delivery Director commented; “We are continuing to deliver efficiencies and cost savings to the customer and this project of work over in RAF Mount Pleasant is a great example of TyTAN in action.”

BAE EX SNOW EAGLEON THE 26 FEB 17, PERSONNEL FROM RAF CONINGSBY (CBY)

PARTICIPATED IN EX SNOW EAGLE 17 IN SOUTHERN GERMANY.

T hose attending from Coningsby were joined by over 100 other personnel

from various RAF Stations to participate in the weeks Adventurous Training. SNOW EAGLE is designed to teach individuals how to ski for the first time or improve their skills if they have previously skied.

The exercise was split into 3 groups; first being Skiing Foundation 1 (SF1), which was for those who had never skied before and were taught the basics of skiing. SF2, is designed for individuals who had previously skied, confident skiers or completed SF1 and finally, SF3, for the advanced group which included cross country skiing with avalanche and specialist winter training.

Throughout the week the groups visited various ski resorts in the Bavarian Alps to experience skiing on a variety of different level slopes. After 2 days of local training, the SF1 group travelled to the German Austrian

border for a day’s skiing. By this stage, the beginners group had built up the confidence to test themselves on Blue, Red and’ some’ the Black slopes.

Overall the weather was great throughout the week apart from Tuesday which consisted of severe snow storms and mist. The weather tested personnel and apart from suffering from the effects of the cold, some individuals experienced skiing in poor visibility.

The Bavarian and Austrian Alps tested all as individuals.  For some new to skiing, they struggled to find the confidence to ‘just let go’ and ‘get down’ the slope. Others reacted very well and offered help and guidance to the individuals who were struggling. To summarise, the week was full of ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ but overall, the week was a great success and everyone who attended would ‘snap up’ the chance attend one of next year’s serials.

FS Gav Sayer

onetoone 29

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Newsagent, Stationer,Bookseller

alsoGreeting Card Specialist

Our staff are trained in all aspects of dry cleaning and stain removal.

Our Dolphin Lane, Boston shop is fully equipped to deal with a full range of services, a list of which is below. We reward ourselves with a quality service and take pride in our work. We offer a full range of services including:

• Dry Cleaning• Wedding Dress

Cleaning and Boxing Service

• Evening Dresses & Ball Gown cleaning

• Curtain and Soft Furnishing Cleaning

• Ironing Service• Repairs and

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To advertise in the next issue of this publication,

please contactJo

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Email:[email protected]

www.algarveestatemanagement.co.uk/property/apartment-meia_19744

Phone Judith on01536 711884

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.

Self Catering Holiday Apartment• Twin bedroom.• Open plan kitchen & lounge.• The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven,

microwave, toaster and washing machine.• Family sized bathroom.• The lounge has a sofa (which converts into

two single beds) and a table to seat four.• A TV, DVD and CD player are also available.• Patio doors open onto the balcony, offering

views over the pool and across Lagos.• Ample parking space in front of the building.

You could be in the Algarve,relaxing in the sun...

PRICES:Jan - March £225April £300May £325June £375July/August £475Sept £375Oct £325Nov/Dec £250

2 LUXURY STATICHOLIDAY CARAVANS FOR HIRE

With miles and miles of golden sandy beaches opposite the park, you can also benefit from the facilities of the Haven Holidays Park which include: an outdoor pool with flume and a heated indoor pool. A Funfair with plenty of rides, a large fun area with a playground, climbing wall and crazy golf.

There are also two coarse fishing lakes. Entertainment, both daytime and evening and a bar and restaurant.

GOLDENSANDS HOLIDAY PARK MABLETHORPE

Based at the

The Caravans are comfortable, clean and spacious. Central and electric heating throughout, with a fully equipped kitchen area. Both have extra wide showers, with separate toilets. The large lounges have comfortable seating a TV, DVD and CD player, with a second TV in the double bedroom.

Both are situated together with a large grass area at the front with outdoor tables and chairs.The caravans are available for hire from 10th March to 20th November

3 Nights Fri - Mon 4 Nights Mon - Fri 7 Nights Fri - Fri

Booking MUST be made through eastuk-holidays.com Look for - Bermuda 8 Berth or Richmond 8 Berth

30 YOUTH ISSUE 2 2017

2ND CONINGSBY AND TATTERSHALL

SCOUT GROUP

BEAVER SCOUTS (AGED 6-8), CUB SCOUTS (AGED 8-11) AND SCOUTS (AGED 11-14)

T he Scout Association offers everyday adventure and activity to over 450,000

young people across the UK, and the Movement is the largest co-educational youth organisation in the world, with over 31 million members in 216 countries and territories. In the UK Scouting is organised through The Scout Association, and has a clear purpose “To actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.” and as such our Scout Group works hard to ensure we achieve this. Scouting makes a positive contribution to society by helping young people develop as active members of the community. Scouting works well when young people enjoy learning by taking part in a variety of activities, new experiences exploring the outdoors of their local and wider

community, participating in team events within the Group, District, County, Nationally, and more importantly taking responsibility for themselves. Our Scout Group gives Young People the opportunity to learn by working through the Programme. The Programme is a continuous progression of training, activities and awards that covers everything young people do in Scouting from the age of 6 to 25; and yes it’s been open to girls since 1976!

The Scout numbers of our Group are only limited by the amount of ‘’uniformed’’ Leaders in each Section, which can be supported by ‘’Occasional Helpers’’ and ‘’Young Leaders’’…however, like any organisation there are a variety of roles for adults, which can help the Group grow and provide even better Scouting such as fundraisers, gardeners, activities support, first

aid instructors and adults with any skills which can be used to support the programme.

Due to the age of the hut, the Group has a ‘’Wigwam Fund’’ for a new hut, and now need to get plans drafted and expected costs identified so we can move this project forward; any guidance or offers are more than welcome!

We do need your help to grow and move forward, and would welcome any new adult or Young Persons to join or help with our Group…Training for all adult roles will be provided and you only have to give up as much time as agreed under your ‘’Job Description’’

If you’re interested and want to know more, then please contact Sgt Jonny Guite, EOF, on Ext 7512, or email: [email protected].

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GIRL GUIDING IS DEDICATED TO CREATING A BETTER WORLD FOR GIRLS AND YOUNG WOMENWE EMPOWER GIRLS, WE GIVE THEM SPACE TO GROW AND WE ENSURE THAT EACH ONE OF THEM CAN GET INVOLVED - NO MATTER WHAT THEIR BACKGROUND OR ABILITY.

TATTERSHALL T ogether we provide continuity and support for children and young adults;

essential when their families are deployed, and also in providing necessary respite for parents. Through new experiences, they make friends with children from different schools and backgrounds, enabling them to mix with those they may not normally socialise with, forming strong relationships and building confidence.

Guiding is inclusive of all levels ensuring girls can excel at their own ability and pace, including SEN, in a girl only environment. Learning life skills and values, they can gain a sense of achievement through adventure, badge work and discovery, constantly developing to reach their potential.Learning about role models and responsibility gives opportunity for each individual to really flourish and be creative without being judged. Each member makes a promise:• to be an active citizen of

her community and the wider world

• to help others – from a kind word to a

neighbour to huge international campaigns,

• to develop her spiritual side - whatever she believes or cares about, and to respect the beliefs of others.We also welcome parents to

help at the weekly meetings and events enabling the opportunity to meet other parents, as well as experience this girl-only environment that will stay with them for life.

If you have a spare 90 mins a week and would like to make a difference, or have children who wish to join why not contact us through the guiding website at https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/ and come for a taster. The warranted guide leaders are fully trained and have completed their leadership qualifications to provide this charity for your community!

Guiding is an extended family community

providing safe environments for girls aged

5-7 Rainbows7-10 Brownies10-14 Guides

14-18 Senior Section

Parent Leaders with Brownies

Parachute Activity

Brownie Promise with Mum

32 YOUTH/CHARITY ISSUE 2 2017

THE AIR CADETS FROM 17 SQUADRON CONINGSBY ASSEMBLED WEARING THEIR FINERY TO ATTEND THE SQUADRON’S ANNUAL, “DINING OUT – EATING IN” EVENING.

NO17 (CONINGSBY) SQN ATCT he event took place at the

Abbey Lodge, Kirkstead. The guest of honour was

Wing Commander, Claire O’Grady. Along with other guests, Rev (Wing Commander) Alasdair Nicoll from RAF Coningsby and Squadron Leader Simon Dunn from Trent Wing. The evening followed the traditional RAF format, right down to the table layout. This was to emulate the RAF experience, which is at the core ethos of the Air Cadet organisation.

Unfortunately, the Squadron’s Officer in Charge, Flight Sergeant Keith Clark was unable to attend, but a speech was read out on his

behalf by Civilian Instructor, Malcolm Emsden. In this speech it celebrated some of the Squadrons many achievements during the past year. These achievements included; raising £891.25 for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, taking part in the Air Training Corps 75th Anniversary parade at Lincoln Cathedral, coming fifth in the Annual Wing Field Day competition and taking part in many Air Experience Flights, leading to many of the squadrons cadets flying for the first time and some of the cadets even taking control of the aircraft.

During the evening there were several promotions awarded

to cadets who had worked hard and shown themselves worthy of a promotion.

The Cadets promoted were:Sergeant Chris Sykes promoted to Flight Sergeant.Corporal Kobe Sandiford promoted to Sergeant.Cadet Rowan Thompson promoted to Corporal.Cadet Luke Hogg promoted to Corporal.

Following the promotions, Wing Commander O’Grady gave a highly inspirational speech drawing on her personal experience of being an Air Cadet herself. The Wing Commander shared some interesting statistics

with the Squadron, these being, 50% of the current serving pilots and 40% of the current serving officers in the RAF at one time used to be members of the Air Cadet organisation, which gave plenty for the cadets to think about.

Of the evening, Wing Commander, O’Grady said, “It has been a real privilege to attend 17 Squadrons annual dinner this evening. It brought back lots of great memories and reminded me what a fantastic organisation the Air Cadets is and what a great tribute 17 Squadron is to the organization on a whole”.

CI (Civilian Instructor) Robin Ayling

Air Cadets is a youth organisation open to 12 – 17 year old girls and boys which parades twice a week on a Tuesday and Thursday and is run entirely by volunteers. Activities include flying, gliding, sports, shooting and Duke of Edinburgh to name a few. We are continually looking to recruit not only young people but adult volunteers. If you are interested in finding out more please call on 07928 214981 or email [email protected]

Rowan Thompson receiving her Corporal tapes

Chris Sykes receiving his Flight Sergeant tapes

Four cadets received well deserved promotions on the night

Cadets, staff & guests of No 17 Sqn Air Cadets

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HECKINGTON JUNIOR FC VISIT RAF CONINGSBY

ON 5 APRIL 17, RAF CONINGSBY WELCOMED HECKINGTON JUNIOR

FC FOR A VISIT TO 29(R) SQUADRON AND THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

MEMORIAL FLIGHT.

T here was a mixture of boys and girls ranging from 5 to 15 years old, accompanied

by 7 adult members of the Football Committee, headed by the Club Chairman Grahame Brown and Club President Warrant Officer Brian McCracken. The excited children were able to see the first wave of 4 Typhoon aircraft take off from the 29(R) Sqn viewing platform. Once the aircraft was out of sight, the children were given a warm welcome to 29(R) Sqn by Flt Lt Jonny Dowen and Chief Technician Tracey Haddon from the Typhoon Display Team. This was followed by an in-depth tour of one of the Typhoons, which allowed the children to post some rather imaginative questions to Flt Lt Dowen and US Air Force pilot, Lt ‘Guerkin’ Len, which they handled superbly! I never knew that’s how a pilot went to the toilet at 30,000ft travelling in excess of 500mph! After the children had their photos taken in the cockpit they were kindly presented with a Squadron print by Flt Lt Dowen and a selection of goodies from the Display Team.

It was then time to roll back the years and show the children some of the Royal Air Force’s aircraft of old. Thanks to Miss Law-Crookes, the team were provided with two BBMF tour guide volunteers, Phil and Tony, who expertly delivered a tour of the hangar and aircraft. Whilst the tour was ongoing they took a short break to be able to see one of the Flight’s Hurricanes taxi out and take off. This particular Hurricane was flown by a Polish member of the RAF who was shot down by enemy aircraft. The children were extremely engaging throughout the visits and the questions again came thick and fast, all of which were extremely well answered. At the end of the tour the children were presented with a range of BBMF memorabilia.

To conclude, the visit was a massive success for both the Station and Heckington Junior FC, and continues to maintain strong connections between the RAF with the local community of Lincolnshire.

Sgt Ben Haith

Visiting BBMF

Visiting 29(R) Sqn

Lt Len giving a cockpit brief

SSAFASSAFA PROVIDES VITAL

SUPPORT TO THE WHOLE FORCES FAMILY.

E stablished in 1885, SSAFA focuses on supporting families as well as serving

personnel and veterans. We give practical, emotional and financial help to current and former members of the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the British Army and the Royal Air Force and their families – forever.

We are often recompensed by those we help in the community. Back in February, Sgt Mark Bradbury’s daughter Emily volunteered to “Get the Chop” and raise money for SSAFA, by donating her beautiful locks to the Little Princess Trust. The Little Princess Trust provides real hair wigs free of charge to boys and girls across the UK and Ireland that have sadly lost their own hair due to cancer treatment and other illnesses.

Emily, with support of Mum Martine, was fantastic and managed to raise over £700 for SSAFA!

With so many opportunities and events it’s easy to get involved either within a committee role, as a community volunteer or as a fundraiser. This worthwhile charity understands the demands of the busy lifestyles we all have, and therefore appreciates what little time you can offer.

The next Coningsby event is the SSAFA Big Brew to be held in the Lounge on 7 Jun from 10am.

Come and join us for a cake and a cuppa, and you too can make a difference.

34 ISSUE 2 2017

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