Len Bowen, Chisholm, ACT

One of the faces on the RAF MOVO Reunion at the RAF Club is Jock Drysdale (in November's newsletter). He was Sword of Honour on my OCTU Course and was serving at RAF Khormaksar, Aden, while I was in Borneo. IIRC Jock was the last RAF MOVO out of Khormaksar on the last Herc. He once told me that the only people behind him up the ramp were several large gentlemen in sandy berets who told him that he really, REALLY didn't want to go back into the Air Movements Terminal, especially through the front door... that was the one with the funny wires...

When I showed my wife Penny the picture of Jock Drysdale at the RAF MOVO Reunion her response was "Yes, but look who is beside him, you ***** idiot!".  I'd completely bleeped over Martin Henderson, another old mate.  How could I forget; Martin is first on the left in the attached, wealding the sword over Penny & I on 2nd September 1972.
Thomas Geoghegan, Folkestone, Kent

Referring to two articles in the last issue, much appreciated the little reminder of Singapore in my days. Although I was stationed at Seletar, I visited Changi quite a bit.  There were very interesting aircraft movements from various air forces, great old location.

Next referring to my old mate Murdo MacLeod's bit regarding the cooks at RAF Muharraq, isn't he brave, mind you he's a big man. I have no memory of the fare they produced but on one occasion I went backstage behind the serveries and realised right then the term "cooks tour" the heat was unbearable.

Around the same time, for some reason, a medical officer decided that we motley lot should partake of salt tablets each day, these were to be found at the entrance to the mess. I duly did as the gentleman said and almost immediately blacked out, it seems I was salty enough!
May I take this opportunity to wish all my friends from the 1960's Air Movements fraternity, the finest Christmas and  good health and happiness in the coming year.  Looking forward to the usual great issues from all the air forces in your wonderful monthly magazine.
Chas Gibson, Dundee
Greetings to all Movers wherever they are from a cold and frosty Dundee
Dean Zimmer, Haverfordwest 
To all Movements OBs. Wishing you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous 2016. All the very best.
Nigel (Mac) McCann, Armadale, Falkirk
Would just like to wish Movers past and present a very Merry Christmas, particularly those who won't be at home with their loved ones during the holiday period.
Bruce Oram, San Fulgencio, Alicante
Shirley and I would like to wish all movers, old and new, a very Happy Christmas. To all movers on deployment in these very troubled times, stay safe and return to your families safely in the new year.
Arthur Taylor, Newcastle-under-Lyme
To all Movers, ex colleagues, WAGS and families, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. May all your wishes be granted in 2016.
Doug Murray, Torrevieja
Murdo Macleod, Newport-on-Tay, Fife
A very Merry Xmas to you Tony, and to all my past acquaintances, too many to mention, and anyway they know who they are, and the same wishes to all who are serving, especially on the front line, keeping us safe, you are never far from my thoughts, God bless you all.
Mike Gerry Lefebvre, Oromocto, NB
I would like offer my best wishes to my co-workers from years ago. Memories of hard workers at low wages in not so ideal working conditions. We were the best.  Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Graham Allen (Buckley), Nottingham
Christmas Greetings to all Movers, friends and their families. May you all have a wonderful time and may your new year be prosperous and healthy.
Brian Spademan, Lanarca
Taking this chance to wish all movers and ex movers throughout the world a safe  merry Christmas and hope 2016 is a great year for you all. Stay safe.
Len Bowen, Chisholm, ACT
Simply wishing all my old friends, former workmates and their families a very happy and merry  *********** (select and insert religious holiday of choice), and a happy and pro$perou$ New Year. 
A family photo of the Murray family. All very happy with our decision to leave the cold behind and move to Spain. Now in our 14th year and loving it. We miss the part of being in the mover's world and hope that all who have been a part of our lives over the 27 years we spent in the RAF have a really fabulous Christmas and a happy and healthy 2016!

L to R -  Scott, Francesca (18), Jack (23), Pam, Joshua (25), and myself with my fave Daughter-in-Law, Pia.
Stephen & Beverley Bird, Chester
Season’s greetings to all those  Movers both serving home and abroad and to all the veterans of the Movements Trade.   Our thoughts also go out to the families of Movers who passed away in 2015.
Andrew Kay, Colorado Springs, CO
Wishing all movers, past, present and future a Merry Christmas and a Happy (and more importantly) a safe New Year. And as I do at every Christmas I will raise a glass and remember those we have lost this year.
David & Darrelle Moss, Sorbie
From Darrelle and myself to all movers and other contacts.  Here's wishing all of you from whatever country and service a Happy Christmas and every hope for a more peaceful and prosperous New Year.
Mike & Susan Stoddard, Trenton, ON
Wishing all the loadies and movers from OBA a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Trenton, Canada
Tony Street, Buffalo, NY
To all the Old Bods and Young Bods in the movements/loadmaster game, a very Merry Christmas wherever you may be!
Richard Lloyd, Dalgety Bay
Please accept my personal best wishes for a very happy Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year when it comes. I send the same greetings to all my friends and acquaintances in the world of the Movers, especially those with whom I had the privilege to serve at Lyneham, Khormaksar and Northolt over the years 1965 -70.
David Powell, Princes Risborough

Dear Tony and fellow movers past-it and present. My sincere season greetings to all readers of Tony’s eagerly anticipated newsletters, especially fellow F Team regular contributor Clive Price.

Another excellent year coming to a close.  Well I’m still here, despite 2014’s total ticker failure and subsequent in-flight restart thanks to my on-board implanted cardiac defibrillator - a sort of high tech passive on call pacemaker.  Such an experience makes every day, week, month and year excellent!
Main features of our 2015:  watching first grandchild Isabelle become a real little person has been a joy.  A highlight was parading with the ex-MAMS vets on this year’s Remembrance Day march.  An incredible experience.

Holidays included a Norwegian Fjord adventure on one of Hurtigruten cruise /postal ship fleet which operate from Bergen to Kirkenes and back.  Highly recommended, although it was strange going back to places such as Trondheim, Tromso and Bodo, last visited in the 1960s and 70s with F Team and 38 Group. 

My wife of (redacted) years is well and continues with her weekly hospital admin volunteering at Stoke Mandeville. 

As requested, photo of self and Sue enclosed.  This was taken at Great Central Railway at Loughborough where we were part of a group celebrating one of the Risborough Model Railway Club members, ex RN Doc. Tim Peacock’s 60th.
Still not got round to being fully-retired.  Although I did give up university business school lecturing following the ticker incident.  Meanwhile, I continue to fund my model railways and malt whiskey tasting with railway voice-overs with Transport Video Publishing, accrediting University courses for the Association for Project Management and other odd jobs which drift my way.

I’m also working on a new direction in dementia prevention research based on the observation that railway modellers appear to be avoiding the disease.  This I put down to the wide range of handicraft skills embraced by the hobby.  Because of their wide range, the dexterity never gets hard-wired (such as shoelace tying, touch typing or playing a Beethoven piano concerto) and the fiddling, filing and fettling continues to exercise the neocortex brain cells, thus preventing atrophy of the neocortex, aka Alzheimer’s.  However, I have failed to get academia interested as current and any new initiatives appear largely dominated by pharmaceutical industry profit related research; even prevention is focussed on immunisation!  Also, little enthusiasm for a new direction in academic research when nobody else working in the field; as nobody to refer, go to overseas conferences with or who might cite the research in their own work!
Instead, last month I decided to try some DIY research at the National Model Railway Exhibition at the NEC, Birmingham, where I help out in the show control office and man the PA.  During the 2-day show, I managed to make time to interview members of some 20 UK model railway clubs.  These represented a community of some 1,200 active railway modellers and the responses seem to suggest that I may be onto something.  Anyway I hope to publish something somewhere in 2016. 

Meanwhile - if you don’t have a handicraft based hobby or an interest which requires dexterity, concentration and in sufficient variety so that the dexterity never becomes hard wired like shoelace tying: then you may wish to consider taking up such a pastime as a New Year resolution!

Stay safe, best wishes for 2016
Tony Saw, Sleaford, Lincs
I hope that everybody has a great Xmas and New Year.  Stay Safe!
Keith Hubbard, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire
Best wishes to all past and current MAMS /Air Movements members
Brian (Taff) Jenkins, Portland, Dorset
I wish all movers including the old and not so old, near and faraway, a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year from the windswept Isle of  Portland on the Dorset coast.
Jim Birrell, Lake Munmorah, NSW
To Movers and ex-Movers all over the world. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year. Let’s think and pray for the teams deployed in support of our respective country’s anti-terrorism efforts.
Steven Fuller, Kettering, Northants
I wish you and everyone associated with UKMAMSOBA a Happy and Healthy Xmas and a Terrific New Year. I'd like to spare a thought for those Movers sadly departed in 2015 and their families.
Sandy Bunn, Cobourg, ON
I would like to wish all Movers around the world a safe and happy holiday. (Former 2 AMU member, 436 SQN Loadmaster and 1 AMU member.)
Baz Chappell, North Las Vegas, NV
Sorry I have not been in touch, I'm having a battle with a Cat 4 brain tumor, seemingly not a good one.  However let me say Season's Greetings to those that know me and to all the Movements trade in general. Have a great Xmas to you and yours.
Wade & Mary Ellen Seymour, Kingston, NS
On behalf of the Seymour Family in Kingston NS, we would like to wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Fred Hebb, Gold River, NS
Wishing  all movers active or retired a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year no matter where you are in the world.
Brian Lay, Wellington
From the Kiwi Movers we wish all a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year, a massive thanks for your efforts with this fantastic newsletter, also a big thanks to the RAF C-17 Sqn for getting our 5 Sqn team home for Xmas from the Middle East.
Luanne MacKinney, Fredericton, NB

You be sure to put me on the 'nice' list.  I am SOOOOOOO happily retired in Fredericton, NB with the majority of my family no more than 30 minutes away. Much better than being provinces away!

Being retired, I thought I would have many of those 'lazy - hazy' days....but I am busy enough that it keeps me out of trouble.  I volunteer with an organization called Elementary Literacy Friends (Elf) and I am going back to school helping 5 children improve their reading.  Yup.  I am an Elf. ... lol.  I also volunteer with another organization and once in a while I am a dealer for Texas hold'em.   I sure do wish that by being a dealer it would have improved my own poker playing. Oh well... ya' can't have everything!

I wish a healthy and joyful Merry Christmas to one and all and I hope that we will be blessed with many more.
Mick Hughes, Ipswich, QLD          
Hoping that you all get a chance to spend time with family and friends, and maybe a frosty treat or two.  Also that the best of this year becomes the worst of 2016
John Boates, Frankford, ON
Sending you & your family  greetings for a Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year. Great work on the newsletters, I  wait for it every month, great articles in it.
Jon "Head" Felton, Gladstone, QLD 
Greetings fellow "Old Bods" from Summer Down under!  Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, and prosperous New Year holiday period!  Those on deployment with MAMS and ALT tasks, stay safe and keep your powder dry. We will all have a drink or ten in your absence! Kia kaha
Glenn Richardson, St John's, NL
Merry Christmas to the best bunch of guys on the planet, from Newfoundland, Canada.
Glenn Buesnel-May, Brisbane, QLD
To all my Mover mates, all the best and look forward to hearing about all your crazy antics in the New Year.
Charles & Elaine Collier, Ewhurst, Surrey
Christmas is around the corner so Elaine and I send our best wishes to all Movers wherever they may be and hope they are having a smashing time.
Dave (Jarvo) Jarvis, Palmoli, Abruzzo
Happy Xmas and a wonderful New Year to all from Jarvo, K, all the pigs, goats, chickens, hens and dogs here in italy
Glenn Richardson
Glenn Buesnel-May
Elaine Collier
Charles Collier
Jarvo...  Bad for your elf at Xmas!
Jarvo and K
Allan Walker
Wade & Mary Ellen Seymour
Fred Hebb is Santa Claus!
Brian Lay & Cane of Knowledge
Nobby Clarke
Len Bowen with granddaughter, Lily
Ian & Sue Envis Crowborough, East Sussex
At this time of Festive Cheer may I take the opportunity of wishing all those Movers who are still involved in Operations around the world, enjoy the down time and may you come home safely to your families and friends - and then party like there is no tomorrow. To the remainder of the Movements world old and new, my many retired friends and acquaintances, all of your extended families - peace on earth, goodwill to all and may you enjoy the Festive Season and have a safe, healthy and prosperous 2016.
Andy Spinks, Dubai
Christmas Greetings to all from a warm and sunny Dubai. Of the 4 years as F Troop Team Leader, 2 Christmases were spent overseas: one in Belize but a much more pleasurable one on the C130 Christmas Standby. As many will recall, Group would position a C130 plus crew and MAMS team (volunteers from any team) in HKG for a week in case of any emergencies in the region over the Christmas/New Year period. We went eastabout the whole way, returning from HKG across the Pacific and US. There is more to this story but, due to the Internet and Google, some detail must forever remain off the Web. A great trip!
Michael O'Brien, Corinda, QLD

Sittin’ ’n waitin’ for the arrival of No. 2 GrandChild, a girl, who unlike her 3 and-a-half year old brother, doesn’t look like being early!  She’s due Christmas Day according to SWMBO-Minor, and SWMBO-Major is getting suitably clucky, anticipating …
And on the topic of what was my most memorable Christmas so far:  1974, in Darwin, as a callow youth, and RAAFie Singly, we were all quite complacent leading up to Christmas as there'd been a bit of a blow earlier in the month from a Cyclone that wasn't really serious … or so we reckoned! 

Then on Christmas Eve all 40-odd thousand Top Enders were celebrating the imminent arrival of the fat bearded bloke and instead we got Tracy … with her 200+ km/hr winds and rain, which proceeded to pretty much flatten the town, and bring us all back to reality … sort of.
The next couple of days were a blur of getting people ready to evacuate when the RAAF and CivAir started flying in again, on Boxing Day … all comms were down, and it was a series of Ham Radio Operators on Christmas Day, who ended up getting the message out to the world that Darwin had been blown off the face of the map … a huuuge effort ensued to reduce the population to those who could and would work to restore things to a semblance of normal. 

I spent my time for the first week loading ambulant cargo mostly onto Hercs and any other Air Force assets that came in … notably, a VIP flight with a fat politician who refused to accept “those people”, most of whom had lost everything, when we tried to load about 20 mothers and children.   he had, unfortunately, sat himself by the window, so Mum and toddler sat in the aisle seat and I deposited a fairly odourous bub with a wet nappy in his lap!  I heard later that he was not impressed … I’m pleased however that he could fly back to Can’tBerra that day to his family and home …

My singly accommodation was looted sometime during the days after the Cyclone and the majority of my “home” and possessions were obviously deemed more necessary to someone other than myself!  Like a lot of the singlies, I was clothed by the Salvos and whatever we “found” in the RAAF Clothing Store to see us thru.
A remarkable time, where-in so many gave so much to help others; all the emergency services and civil aid elements from all over Australia hooke-in and helped.

All the military elements stood up to make our lives better as quickly as possible … and Ronnie managed to get both C-130 Squadrons into the air, with I believe, 23 out of 24 airframes in the air at the same time [I’ll stand corrected if necessary, but it certainly felt like we had all of ‘em on the tarmac at Darwin …]

I’ve attached some pics, below, none of which are mine, and grovelling apols to any whom I have offended by using them, but which I believe to be ‘open copyright’, as they’ve been in the public domain for some time:
So, all the best to all the Movers, from OBie, for the Festering Season and the coming New Year!  We will lift the odd glass or three, and as soon as Herself has arrived we’ll lift a few more … it’d be really funny if she arrives early Christmas morning, and the Heirs name her Tracy, hey!
Darwin Travelodge Hotel swimming pool on Christmas Morning
(I was living in Hong Kong, working in Task Plans Kai Tak, when Tracy hit Darwin, and because of my previous MAMS experience was Shanghaied (excuse the pun) onto an RAF Herc on Boxing Day to bring medical supplies and help out down there.  What a mess!   I remember seeing what was left of the Aspa City Motel where I had spent many a night on previous visits.  You and I probably worked side-by-side on the ramp some 41 years ago - holy cow - small world!  - TG)
Personally I spent the dark hours, sometime after midnight Christmas Eve/early morning of December the 25th, helping get people out of their houses before the roofs/walls etc went south, and depositing the mostly women and kids in the relative safety of a ground floor flat, in the suburb of Nightcliff, of the mate and his pregnant wife with whom I was spending the night … every time we brought someone back to “safety” his wife gave us a glass of scotch from a 40 Oz that we’d won in a raffle on Christmas Eve, before it got too windy!  By the time it was daylight on Christmas Morning things were pretty grim, indeed, however we weren't feeling any pain!
Bob Whitaker, Victoria, BC
Wishing everyone in OBA-Land and their families a safe and happy Christmas/New Year from (almost) sunny Victoria, BC.
Ian Place, Meanwood, West Yorks
Have a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.  I am still working for Swissport part time 30hrs a week as a dispatcher, maybe when I am 70 yrs will I give up walking the Ramp who knows?
Brian & Lussi Gibson, Paralimni  
To all fellow "Movers" serving or retired and all their families. I would like to extend to you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year 2016, a special thought to all families who have lost their loved ones and to those who are fighting with illness.
Mick Maybery, Alcaudete
Here's wishing a Safe, Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year to all of you wherever you may be in the world.
Keri Eynon, Thatcham, Berks
May you have a blessed and peaceful as well as joyful Christmas and have a Happy New Year all the best for 2016
Bob Whitaker
Ian Place at Swissport
Brian Gibson
Lussi Gibson
Mick Maybery
Keri Eynon
Vic Smith, Brassall, QLD
Please pass on my wishes to all Movers for a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.
Denis Culver, Trenton, ON
Merry Christmas to all the fellow movers out there.  May the holiday season bring you health and happiness.
Mike Hagarty, Mesa, AZ
At this special time of year I want to wish all members of our Movers Family a Very Merry Christmas and a Particularly Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Bob Whitworth, Masirah
I would like to wish all movers  a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Gary (Elvis) Farndale, Torpoint, Cornwall
To all serving and ex serving movers: Seasons greetings from a wet and stormy Cornwall. Thinking of all the lads and ladies on current operations around the world. Stay safe and hope you're back with your loved ones very soon.
Liam Devlin, Port Talbot
It's been a long time since I said hello to any of my friends and colleagues on the MAMS OBA. I am now living here in South Wales in the rain! Missing the 'war' stories, you know the sort. Feeling my age, one of my young airman I first met when he left the Movements School and joined us at Lyneham, is now a Warrant Officer and is about to be retired himself - Duncan Andrews, he's just about to get his 'blue card' Do they still use the blue card? So I wish all you ol' MAMS guys a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year.
Chris Wootten, Collinsville, QLD

I have been good, I hope?  Well, from a member in the deep north of down under, I would like to send my deepest, fondest wishes for a happy and cheerful enjoyment of the upcoming festive season close to your loved ones. 

To those who cannot be home with loved ones, I pray for a safe time for you all. My wife Camille and I will be trotting up to Townsville to visit with our son Dale for the Christmas weekend, then back home for New Years. A quiet time.  We are suffering with 36 degree Celsius heat and no rain likely. Will not have to mow the lawn, its dead. Water here is too expensive to buy from council.
David Hardy, Lake, Isle of Wight
I wish all past and present “Movers” a Happy Christmas and illness free New Year.
Syd Avery, Guardamar del Segura
Both myself and my partner, Riet, wish all Movers past and present, a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas. For 2016 we hope that everything works out as you plan it. Happy CHRISTMAS.
Brent Keenan, Derby
Currently living in Derby, working for Royal Mail as Revision Manager. In regular contact with lots of ex Movers
Mike Damaren and Donna Neil, Winnipeg, MB
Retirement has been busy and allowed me many different opportunities. Donna is still at 2 Air Mov Sqn patiently waiting her turn to retire and join me. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all movers wherever you may be.
Dave Hardy
Syd Avery & Riet
Brent Keenan
Donna Neil and Mike Damaren
Gary Ferguson, Ilkley, West Yorks
I would like to wish all Members of the UKMAMSOBA a very Merry Christmas and hope that you all have a great year in 2016, and to all those still serving keep up the great work.
Mick Sullivan, Carterton, Oxon
Merry Christmas to all past and present Movers both home and abroad, those away on Ops stay safe and enjoy the festive period best you can. All the very best to all for 2016.
Steve Harpum, Shrivenham, Oxon
Wishing all Movers, wherever they be in the world this Christmas, a happy festive season and a peaceful and successful new year.
Figgy Ferguson, Carterton, Oxon
Happy Xmas and a very drunken New Year to all movers past and present and thoughts for those no longer with us.
Paul & Diane Weir, Leighton Buzzard, Beds

Thought I would attach one of my latest commissions, a lovely 1850s bath chair. It was commissioned by a local museum at Pitstone in Buckinghamshire

Bath chairs were invented by James Heath of Bath (hence the name) in around 1750. They soon grew in popularity and by 1830 there were many being used around the country as early wheel chairs where the nurse pushed the chair whilst the patient steered. The seat is normally done out in a fine padded leather. Also when the internal combustion engine was invented many were used as side cars on the very early Phelan motorcycles. Many were also used during WW1 to ferry the wounded to the field hospitals.

Both Diane and myself would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone out there serving and retired a very merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Tony Last, Huntingdon, Cambs
Season’s greetings from Pat and I, to all Movers, wherever they may be and we hope those in conflict areas all return safe and sound. A very happy 2016 and beyond to everyone.
Budgie Baigent, Takaka, Tasman
Here's wishing Festive Greetings to Movers around the globe from sunny Golden Bay.  Have a great 2016
David “Sid” Thompson, Paltamo
Wishing all on UKMAMS OBA a very Merry Christmas from here in snowy Finland and may the New Year bring even better times for all. I'll be raising a glass to you all.
Kevin Stanger, Calgary, AB
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the "movers" serving and retired.  Raise a glass or two to those deployed and to those who are now in the creation in the sky.
Tony Last
Budgie Baigent
David “Sid” Thompson (AKT '83)
Kevin Stanger
John Guy, Northampton
To all movers & their families wherever they may be, a very Happy Christmas, a healthy & prosperous New Year.
Jimmie Durkin, Stafford, Staffs
Please forward my very best wishes to all our members and families and other Movers who may get to read our newsletter for a Very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous, Healthy and Safe New Year 2016. And, let's not forget our absent friends
Nobby Clarke, Swaffam, Norfolk
Merry Christmas to all you old Movers and a Happy New Year.
Dave (Pinky) Salmon, Springfield, OR 
I would like to wish all Movers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Springfield, Oregon. I hope to see many of you at the reunion in May 2016.
Alan Potts, Temecula, CA 
To all friends, past work mates and all the ‘Movers’ everywhere I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas holiday and a very successful 2016.
John McGrath, Blackpool, Lancs
Happy Christmas to you all. I hope you have a happy and healthy New Year. This message is sent to you from a damp Lancashire.
Chis Briggs, Coventry, West Midlands
Just to wish all movers past and present a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and also to say how proud I was to represent the movers at the Remembrance Sunday parade in London. Hopefully see you all next year.
Ian Sloan, Aberlour, Banff 
I would like to send greetings to all the OBA's. I don't suppose many will remember me as it was so long ago that I was a mover; FEAF MAMS, Brize & Lossiemouth. Thank you very much for your newsletter, I do look forward to it.  All my best wishes for Christmas and the New Year
Andy Marshall, Witney, Oxon
I do hope that everyone, wherever they are,  enjoys the Christmas break and has a great 2016.
Mick Brummell, Truro, Cornwall
Let me take this opportunity to wish your good self and all that know me Christmas Greetings and a very Happy and Prosperous New Year. To you Tony, very many thanks for putting together a lot of fantastic newsletters full of fun, great news and articles producing lots of memories; thanks a lot.
Tony Freeman, Thornhill, Dumfries
I send my best wishes to you and all members of the OBA for a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Steve Perry, Royal Wootton Bassett
Best wishes to you and all the movements family around the world. For those away from their families, stay safe and remember all our thoughts and wishes are with you.
Tom Burrows, Sudbury, Suffolk
Christmas greetings to all my friends and colleagues I have served with in the UK, Australia and Canada. I hope you have a great Christmas and the New Year is all you wish for.
Jerry Allen, Cheltenham, Glos
RAF Movements was my life, work and entertainment for 20 years.  The memory of those years remains my entertainment.  To those Movers I was fortunate to know and those who I have yet to meet, I wish you and your families all of the very best for Christmas and a fantastic 2016.
Mike Perks, Lutterworth, Leics
I would like to send my best wishes to "Movers" everywhere, whether they know me or not. In my experience, there will be Movers hard at work over Christmas and I wish them all that they wish themselves. A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and yours.
Barry Tappenden, Shortstown, Beds 
A very Happy Christmas and New Year to all.
Russ Carter, Caldercruix, North Lanark
Firstly, thank you very much for your efforts for producing the OBA newsletter. Your latest email prompted me to ensure that I appear on the ‘nice’ list and to give a wee update of what I have been up to since leaving UKMAMS in August 1991.

After a brief spell working in Yemen for an oil exploration company where I was involved in the training and running of their heliborne seismic operation I joined Wiltshire Police. I worked in Swindon and Highworth for 8 years before transferring to Strathclyde Police in August 2000.

Having spent the last 15 years in and around the Glasgow area I find myself in my last year of Police service. Thanks to the 8 years I spent as mover, I will be able to retire from the Police on a full 30 year pension. I look back fondly on the time that I spent in the RAF and I am always happy to swing the lantern with tales from my days back in the cold war era with anyone that is willing to listen.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all movers past and present a safe and merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.
Allan Walker, Burnley, Lancs 
With best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to all Movers, both old and new wherever you may be.
Sam Mold, Brighton & Hove
A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  May 2016 find you all healthy, prosperous and full of great joy!
Gaetan Chasles, Gatineau, QC
Joyeux Noël et Bonne et Heureuse Année à tous les "Movers" de ce monde. Que l'année soit prospère et pleine de joie.  Au plaisir de vous voir ou de vous lire dans un temps rapproché.  Salut.
Mick Bedford, Caerwent, Mon
Sue & I would like to wish all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous  New Year.
Justin Bernard, Winnipeg, MB
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all Movers everywhere! For those serving abroad, I wish you a speedy end of tour and safe return to your family and friends.  Let’s raise a glass on New Year’s Eve to those who have passed away and remember them for their comradeship and service.
Hugh Thompson, Swindon, Wilts
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all my serving and ex-serving “mover” friends both locally and wherever in the world you find yourself. Those of you potentially in “harm’s way” on operations, stay safe and come home to your families and loved ones.”
Sam Mold
Gaetan Chasles
Mick & Sue Bedford in Tenerife
Justin Bernard
"Captain" Hugh Thompson in
the Britannia at Kemble
Brian Cock, Hailsham East Sussex
I wish all those Humperdinck and dumpers of the Association and of 4624 RAuxAF a very Merry Christmas and  a healthy and wealthy New Year
Al Gordon, Edmonton, AB
I would like to wish all the movers that I have known and worked with over the years a Merry Christmas. Special thoughts and prayers go out to those who are no longer with us and those who are going through trying times. I wish all a safe and happy New Years especially all the movers who are still serving.
Jack Cross, Moralet, Alicante
A very Merry Christmas to all my readers, and may 2016 be all that you wish it to be.  If any of you are coming to the Alicante (Spain) area feel free to contact me and buy me a few drinks.
Babs Sugg, Swindon, Wilts
Greetings to Kenneth Mckenzie, ex mover RAF, stationed  in Dusseldorf 1957 -1960, Greetings to your good self and anyone else who may remember me and my late husband Gwyn (Taff) Sugg.
Brian Kent, Carterton, Oxon
Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all Movers everywhere - the best career in the Air Force
Bernie Connolly, Wantage, Oxon
Happy Christmas to all who may still remember me!  Hard to believe that it was 50 years ago earlier this year that we finished training at Hereford! A lot of water has gone under the bridge since then!  Best wishes to you all, and Tony, keep up the good work! You are doing a fantastic job.
Howard Firth, Cranwell Village, Sleaford, Lincs
May I wish "Movers" worldwide a most wonderful Festive Season and a prosperous and most importantly, a peaceful and safe 2016.  This applies especially to those who are separated from their families on ops.
Steve Cross, Doncaster, South Yorks
Wishing all current & past movers a safe, healthy & drunken Christmas, especially those who remember Christmas 1989 at MPA as part of the 1990 Club. If you're not wearing your badge, consider yourselves slabbed!
Peter Herring, Gosport, Hants
Happy Christmas to all in the Movers club....especially those of NEAF MAMS fame!  Also a special time of year to remember those heroes who now inherit the great Turtle Club in the sky. We remember them all with affection- God bless them. And Happy Christmas to all.
Rick Siddons, Ottawa, ON
Merry Christmas / Happy New Year to you and all the other Movers out there.
Bill Girdwood, Ealing, London

To all movers across the world, Tony, I send my very best wishes for a very happy, healthy and prosperous (some hopes!) 2016! To all those who are away from their families and loved ones, rest assured that your interests will always be at the forefront of the minds of every OBA member and your interests will always be paramount! And, always remember that from drinking water, you can catch typhoid!  I send my very best regards and best wishes for the future to all.

(now a resident in Ealing, London; missed the latest Carlisle floods by about 30 days and 200 metres!)
Frank Johnston, Navarre, FL 
Season's greetings to one and all from the Sunshine State! The hat is mine but the ugly sweater is my wife's idea.
Frank Breithaupt, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs
Here’s wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t.
Shawn Bellas, Bungedore, NSW
To all my mover friends spread across this globe, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Adventurous New Year. A special mention to all my old team members from UKMAMS 2001-2003.
Basil Hughes, Pattaya
May I wish you and all the old Movers a very happy Christmas and every blessing for the New Year from Neeanne, Basil and Bim (Step Granddaughter)
Frank Johnston,
Maralyn & Frank Breithaupt
Shawn Bellas
Basil and Bim (Little Lady)
New members joining us recently are:
RAF
John Kay, Reading, Berks, UK
David Wright, Huddersfield, West Yorks, UK
RCAF
Wayne Shaw, Hillcrest, AB, Canada
Welcome to the OBA!
Jim & Mary Marchant, Cupar, Fife
Mary and I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
Chas Cormack, Lyneham Village
I first worked with MAMS in 1962 in Nicosia and was attached to the team at Akrotiri for the first Cyprus evacuation in February 1964 prior to my posting back to Abingdon in August 64,I am really beginning to feel my age. It is 50 years in 2016 since the squadron was recognised and awarded Squadron status and I have met and worked with some great friends over the years and would like to wish everyone the best wishes for Christmas and the New Year and hope to see some old friends at the Reunion Dinner which should take place in May 2016.
Davey Jones, Wellington
For all those whom I have had the pleasure of supporting, career managing, posting or detaching in my former life I send season's greetings of Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  For those who remain serving, especially those deployed on active service and support roles - the same applies with the caveat of stay safe and return home. (Former RAF TG18b drafter)
Pete Morrison, Stafford
Wishing a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to all Movers past and present wherever you may be.  Jacqui and I are flying to Australia on Boxing Day evening for all but a month (holiday) Perth, Sydney and Douglas Bay, anyone down that way fancy a beer then drop me a line.  Still trying to convince Jacqui to let me play Rugby in the Boxing Day Dads and Lads game with my 2 boys before traveling but she’s not keen!
Mike Stepney, Glasgow
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all current and past Movers world-wide a very merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year for 2016.
Gordon Gray, Derby
To those serving in hostile areas during this festive time and those of us who are retired I send Seasonal Greetings!
Nige Robinson, Chippenham, Wilts
Wishing all a very Happy Christmas, and a prosperous New Year. To all that are separated by ops, I hope time will go fast and you will be together again soon.
Wayne Harker, Edmonton, AB
To all movers, still serving or retired I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and all the best in 2016. I hope as many of you as possible will be with your families, and that you will all be safe wherever you are.  God Bless you all.
Paul (Arfur) English, Swindon, Wilts
I would like to wish all the Movements family past and present a very happy crimbo and a prosperous New Year.
Terry Fryer, Castle Donington, Derby 
Wishing everyone who knows me and everyone that doesn't a very Happy Christmas and a very prosperous New Year.
Don Hazlewood, Somewhere Sandy
I have seen that many Christmas’s, and missed a few in my time. Merry Crimble to all ye youngsters. (I'll be home for Christmas!)
Graham Ellis, Feilding
Season's greetings to all the Movers out there, both at home and deployed to the four corners of the world.
David Stevens, Bangor
I wish all my UKMAMS friends a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous and Peaceful New Year.
Howard (Taff) Farrow, Stafford
Please pass  my warmest festive greetings to all Movers serving over the Christmas period and also to Old Bods of Brize Norton and UK MAMS
Bernie Lafrance, Nanaimo, BC
Hi to all the Traffic Techs! Wishing each and every one all the best for this festive season and a wonderful 2016. May all your wishes come to fruition.
Cap’n Al Sadler, Caribbean
To all my mover friends and family, I wish you and your family a safe, happy, and joyful Christmas from the tropical island of St. Maarten/St. Martin and the British Virgin Islands. Plus I hope you have a fantastic 2016, may all your dreams come true next year!
Martin Gledhill, Selby, North Yorks
To all movers past and present. Have a great festive season and try not to drink too much (as movers tend to do). Merry Christmas and an excellent New Year.
Lee Kincart, Basel
A big hello to all the Movers and wishing you all the best for Christmas and the New Year.
John Gillis, Hanwell, NB
On behalf of Allana, Maggie and myself, I want to wish all movers and their families a special Merry Christmas and the best New Year ever. For those men and women who are separated from their families at this time of year, we are all thinking and praying for your safe return. Merry Christmas and God Bless
Bernie Lafrance
Cap'n Al Sadler
Martin Gledhill
Lee Kincart (Kink)
Allana, Maggie & John Gillis
Tony Dunphy, Swindon, Wilts
Thanks for your hard work and to you and all members worldwide I wish a merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and safe New Year
Barrie (Tug) Wilson, Chickerell, Dorset
Could you please wish all ex UKMAMS, all Movers past and present a Very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year wherever they are throughout the world.
Kumar & Christine Mohindra (Uncle & Mrs Mo), Tuffley, Glos
Hello movers worldwide. A Merry Christmas and a Happy prosperous New Year to you and your families.  Those still in peril away from home: SAFE road back team. God Bless u all. Thank u for all u are doing to keep us all safe.
Dave (Wishy) Wash, Eastern Passage, NS
Merry Xmas & Happy New Year along with Happy Holidays to all the Movers at Home & abroad this season. Keep safe
Andy Kime, Marlow, Bucks
Season's Greetings to you and all Movers everywhere, with a special 'Thank You' to all down-route and away from home this Christmas.  Still going strong at HQ AIR, enjoying a 2 year extension of service.
Don Milburn, Swindon, Wilts
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all current and ex-members of the Movements Empire. I extend these greetings to our colonial brothers be it north or south of the equator. Don't get too drunk but DO enjoy it.
Christine Dunn (Widow of Brian), Upwood, Cambs
Seasons Greetings to all "Movers" who were at RAF Abingdon 1964-1969, especially Ian Stacey, Jimmie Jamieson and Chas Cormack.
Colin Pay, Isle of Wight
Linda and I wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year.
Gordon Black, Swindon, Wilts
Wishing every member of the OBA the best of times for Christmas and a Prosperous New Year, particularly those who may be separated from friends and family at this time.
Don Lloyd, Calgary, AB
For all the “Loadies” and “Movers” around the world,  wherever you may be deployed over the holidays keep in mind the spirit of the season, and of course the memories of those that are keeping the fireplace aglow until you return home.  My wife Judy and I want to wish you all, whether you will be at home or away over the festive season, a “Very Merry Christmas” and a “Happy, Prosperous and Healthy New Year. And may we also take a minute to reflect on those that can’t be with us because they also “Have Served”.
Joe Gillis, Grand Mira South, NS

First and foremost I wish to extend best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year to all Movers.

Since I retired from the RCAF in 2010, I pursued my passion for music, putting together a small band and playing gigs locally. Notwithstanding, I began to write songs and got a penchant to produce my own CD. The CD is called, Will Ye No Come Back Again, borrowed from the phrase of Robbie Burns who wrote about the Scots longing for the return of Robert The Bruce after the Battle of Culloden. My song refers to the exodus of the youth from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, who have to leave the Island to seek work “out west”.  There are three original songs on the CD.
One of the cuts is called, Bill and Jack and Tom, which I have included for you to upload so that Movers can have a listen to and if they are so inclined perhaps will purchase the CD from Itunes, when it is available on that site within the next few days, or simply go this site to listen to the clips and purchase as they please http://cdbaby.com/cd/joegillis   .... 

“Bill and Jack and Tom” is a song that touched me deeply and really is one of the best “Remembrance Day” songs that I have heard. Whenever I sing this song at a ceremony, there are not many dry eyes. I don’t know much about it and would appreciate if any of the movers know anything about this song, i.e. who wrote it, the band who covered it, etc.  I would appreciate the info in order to give credit where due. Despite my research I can find no information regarding same.

Thanks again Tony and please know that my brothers and I surely appreciate your efforts on this site that we find extremely informative. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours.
Harold & Val Jones, Neston, Cheshire
Wishing you and all Movers everywhere a very MERRY Christmas and all the very best for 2016. As Val and I are fully paid up members of the "Sandwich Generation"  I could not resist this garden ornament depicting a very relaxed and contented couple without a care in the world.
Pete Orton, Camberley, Surrey
Yet another year wizzed by, some old friends "posted out "and sadly missed,  but "Old Movers never die, they just slacken their chains.". So here's to another year, best wishes to you and the other 976 members of this brilliant association.
Steve Tomlinson, Tenerife, QLD
Please pass on my heartfelt Best Wishes to all during this Festive Season and I hope everyone has a Happy, Merry & Safe Christmas.
George Readman, Yate, South Gloucester
Please wish all Movers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. In particular anyone on FEAF MAMS 1961/64 and UK MAMS 1966/68. I have enclosed mug shots of then and now just in case  anyone is in danger of forgetting me.
Keith Smith, Swindon, Wiltshire
I would like to wish each and every one of my fellow Movers both past and present, the compliments of the Festive Season and all best wishes for a happy and healthy 2016. I enclose a photo of Jackie Brice & myself as we formed up just before we marched on Remembrance Sunday 081115 - Unforgettable experience.
John Bell, Desborough, Northants
I am attaching a recent photo of me laying a wreath at the Desborough Remembrance Day ceremony last month. A female naval officer asked me why I was wearing a RAF hat (chip-bag) and sporting a beard. A retired soldier asked me why I was putting a dart board on the monument!  To all movers everywhere, those I know and those I have never met, I wish you and your families a happy Christmas and the best of fortunes in 2016 and beyond.
Val & Harold Jones
Sue & Pete Orton at Lake Louise
Steve Tomlinson
George Readman - then
George Readman - now
Jackie Brice & Keith Smith
John Bell
Ronald Coupe, Houston, TX  
WIshing all a very Merry Christmas (RAF Habbaniya, Iraq, 1952-54)
Stan Seggar, Sheffield
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all. especially any ex Boy Entrants 50th Entry C Flight 3 Squadron u/t Suppliers RAF Hereford 1963-65.
Neil & Barbara Middleton, Ipswich, Suffolk
We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
(NEAF MAMS 1971-74)
Ken Knott, Nottingham, Notts  
You had better put me on the nice list as I would like to wish all Humpers and Dumpers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May they always honour the movers tradition of being First into the bar and Last Out.
Michael “Dino” Dean, Huntington
I never was a “Mover”, I stayed pure and kept to the much more simple “Supply” trade.  I could bore all of the “Movers” with my tales of deadlines and budgets  met, Demand Satisfaction Rates exceeded (yawn) anyway, it is very good to hear from you.  So Merry Christmas to all in the “Supply & Movements” Branch. (Ex 50th B/E).
Charlie & Patsy Marlow, Freshwater, Isle of Wight
Christmas greetings to all. For those still serving keep up the good fight. God bless everyone. Have a peaceful and Merry Christmas and a successful and Happy New Year
Jeff Thomas, Llandrindod Wells, Powys
Hello from Mid-Wales where the weather is getting good for Christmas. Please include me on your good boy list as I send Best Wishes, Happy Christmas and  Merry New Year greetings to all the guys. And for you, many thanks for keeping the news coming to me in this remote part of the world.
Tim Newstead, Bourton-on-the-Water, Glos
Very best wishes and greetings to all past and present movers, stay safe.  I hope too that you have a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2016.  Tony, very many thanks to you for keeping this brotherhood (and sisterhood!) alive and well
Ron Turley, Davao, Mindanao
Best wishes to all movers anywhere in the World. Special thoughts go to those who find themselves on deployed duty and away from their families. Thank you for your service
John (Hoss) Wall, Fairford, Glos
From the Oggie Movers to all Movers in Moverland, 
a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

(4624 Squadron RAuxAF)
Click little arrow to advance to the next cards
Mario Martinelli, Baldivis, WA
My family and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year filled with fun, friends and family. 

I have attached a photo of myself and my fellow movers from 1/89 Air Movements Section Operators Course conducted at RAAF Richmond, NSW.
Duncan Grant, Trentham, Staffs
I found this photo recently . It brings back memories (just) of a fantastic old fashioned Christmas with basha bar competitions for Christmas. Needless to say my shift won the competition! Those of you of a certain age will recognise this "gem" in the crown of the Empire. With every good wish to Movers young and old(er) for Christmas 2015 and a Happy New Year from Duncan Grant. Class of '68.
Bob Wetherill, Chesterfield, Derby
Celebrated Christmas here in 1965 (over celebrated here and fell full length into an abandoned urinal)

Christmas Greetings to All
Bob Robinson, Wellingborough
Merry Christmas to all movers past and present, and a happy new year to all, including Gerry Davis and my son Steve. 

Attached Photo of D Shift Akrotiri & Nicosia circa 1964-1965.

Robert Pountney, Forres, Moray
Merry Christmas Tony and all Movers everywhere and may 2016 be happy and safe.

p.s. If anyone is looking for Santa he's at Morayvia in his Sea King Grotto!
Clive Price, Brecon
Myself and Geordie Readman at one of the last UKMAMS gatherings at RAF Lyneham.  Old and grey, but still upright and breathing. We ask no more.

My best wishes to all humpers and dumpers worldwide, and have a very merry xmas and a healthy /wealthy new year.
Pete Clayton, Wroughton, Wilts
I would like to say Merry Christmas and  Happy New Year to all Movers worldwide.  May you all stay safe and well; if you are away from home over Christmas enjoy as best you can and return to an even better celebration.  The local Mover’s family still meets on a regular basis, the last time being Friday 11th December when it was great to see old friends and to enjoy a beer together. I attach some photos of the usual regulars.
Paul Amies, Swindon, Wilts
A quick couple of lines to wish all Movers and ex-Movers a happy, healthy and prosperous Christmas and 2016!

Attached photo was taken after the UKMAMS Cenotaph march last month, a memorable and moving event.
Allan Walker, Burnley, Lancs 
Cartoon drawn by the late Flt Lt Steve Taylor in 1971 which I think  fully depicts the ingenuity of all Movers
Len "Woody" Wood, Pembroke, ON
MERRY CHRISTMAS, TRAPPERS

Our family wish all Movers and their families World wide, serving & retired, a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  May you be safe, have good health and a prosperous future.  May God Bless.
Pictured: Dave, Diane, Chris & Woody
Stephen Croston, Twyford, Berkshire
Allow me to wish every member, ex member and readers of the magazine around the Globe a Very Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Peaceful New Year.  I have taken the liberty of attaching a recent picture, taken in Newbury on Remembrance Sunday, just before the wreath was paraded through the town and placed at the memorial cenotaph in Newbury. I am the one without the beret but sporting the old UKMAMS tie, the eagle eyed amongst you may spot! Just in case you guys have forgotten how age sits with me.
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John Tudor, Stevenston, Ayrshire
Tony, may I wish yourself and all movers or ex movers everywhere and anywhere in the world a very happy and safe Christmas plus a very merry New Year.
Brian Harper, Glenwood, NL
Wishing all movers a happy Christmas and New Year, and hope it is a peaceful one for those in Ops
Gus Turney, Chippenham, Wilts 
Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2016 to all movers everywhere, past and present.  Currently employed by Interserve Defence Ltd, at DTCC Lyneham.
Bill Nangle, Kingston, ON
Thanks for being there and doing such a fantastic job producing the newsletter.  I look forward to every edition as every one brings back some memory or another.  It hard for me to get my mind around the fact it was 37 years ago that I started work on D Shift under Derek Pilkington, and what a time it was!  I worked there with some great people. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to all Muppets, past and present.
Eddie Mottram, Woodley, Berkshire
Thank you Tony for all the hard work you do on the newsletter keeping us in touch with old friends. I wish, to you and all Old Bods, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous New Year.
Paul Newman, Newmarket 
Thank you for such a great newsletter. Christmas greetings to all OBA members from Newmarket where I am working for a man who owns a few horses.
Alan & Lorraine Irving, Royal Wootton Bassett
To all Movers wherever they may be: From our house to your house may your Xmas and New Year bring you and your family much joy and happiness.
Mick Craner, Yeovil, Somerset
Best wishes to all Boys and Girls, serving and retired.  Let us all remember people on their own, a visit, a pressy, or a phone call; one of the worst things in life is to be lonely. 
Derek Grayson
I would like to thank you and also wish you a Merry Xmas and Happy New Year and thank you for all the hard work you do on the OBA Newsletter; while I worked in the Middle East it was a life line in some respects and helped keep me up to date on all the happenings and goings on with members and all the interesting stories, great memories, thank you!  Also I would like to wish all OBA members a great Xmas and a Happy 2016.  I have now retired from my job in Oman and for those who remember me I'm alive and kicking back in Blighty... getting used to early retirement.
I hope all the movers and shakers are taking it easy too.  All the Very best wishes to you all!
Download lyrics: Bill and Jack and Tom
This newsletter is dedicated
to the memory of
Ray Hedinburgh
That's it for this edition and this year!

From my home to yours, have a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Tony
ukmamsoba@gmail.com