Paul and Diane Weir, Leighton Buzzard, Beds
On behalf of my wife Di and myself, I would like to wish every Mover throughout the world a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Once again Tony, thank you so much for your endless dedication and enthusiasm by keeping this unique and special web site going. It’s a priceless way of receiving Movers’ news and memories good and, too often, very sad. Let’s raise a glass (or two) to those dear friends who have departed and gone to pastures new, they are sorely missed.
As you can see from the attached pictures, myself and my wife, Diane, are still busy with the business.
In February this year we were very privileged to be invited to the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers Exhibition at the Guildhall in London and, furthermore, to be commissioned to make a unique shopping basket for HRH The Duchess of Gloucester.
Take care everyone, we are not getting any younger but let’s all enjoy life while we still can.
Regards and best wishes.
Paul (Stretch) and Diane Weir
[Paul Weir is a Yeoman member of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers in London. A mark of quality and excellence. www.bedfordshirebasketmakers.freeindex.co.uk]
Exhibition at the Guild Hall London Feb 2019
Basket Presentation to HRH Duchess of Gloucester
Curved Chair Back Restoration
Papasan Chair Restoration
Games Hamper, Parker Games
1925 Austin - Rear Basket Hamper
Large Rectangular Trunks
Large Trunk - Made for "Singing in the Rain" production
From: Shirley and Duane Bach, Carrying Place, ON
Shirley and I wish all you Movers and families a safe and Great New Year. We have a weekly meat draw at the Legion and if you don't win any meat then you have to draw a card to see who wins this prestigious trophy (see picture above) and then you bring it back next week and do it all over again… lots of fun and laughs for the veteran movers and the "Ham & Spam Gang" .... the website I run is for the Brighton legion at rcl100.ca, Have a safe and Great Christmas and Happy New Year!
From: Stephen & Beverley Bird and family, Chester
Seasons greeting's to all of those in within the Movements Family both serving and retired, special thoughts also with those whom are suffering with illness and the families whom have lost loved one this past 12 months.
From: Taff James, Bristol
A very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all current and past Movers wherever you may be.
From: Andy Kay, Colorado Springs, CO
I'd like to send my best wishes to all movers past and present and for them all to have a happy and safe 2020. Let's also raise a glass on New Year's Eve to the memory of those that we have lost in the last 12 months. Cheers lads!
From: Moe Audet, St-Georges, QC
I would like to wish all movers everywhere a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2020.
From: Ian and April Place, Meanwood, West Yorks
Wishing all Movers either side of the pond, throughout the East and Far East and around the World, all the best for Christmas and the New Year!
From: Fred and Bonnie Hebb, Gold River NS
Wishing all Movers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2020. A special wish to those deployed or unable to be home with family and friends. Also wishing everyone good health and happiness for many years to come.
Andy Kay at the Frazier Museum, Louisville, KY, on the Bourbon Heritage Trail
Back yard at the Bowens, with a 'sundowner' of good Canberra wine - Len is c/w battery pack!
Moe Audet bought himself a new hat for the summer
April & Ian Place at their favourite haunt - Vegas!
Fred Hebb - a portrait in black and white
Barry Tappenden spinning the vinyl at Hospital Radio Bedford
From: Len Bowen, Chisholm, ACT
A very merry, happy and safe Christmas to all OBs, your families and friends, and a braw, bright and prosperous New Year to ane' and aw.
From: Barry Tappenden, Shortstown, Beds
Currently working as a volunteer presenter at Hospital Radio Bedford. (HRB) Next year 2020 I'm putting together a programme for all ex servicemen and women, part of the programme is to be dedicated to all movers world wide. So if you want to send a new years message with a record request then get in touch either through our news letter or www.hospitalradiobedford.org.uk , twitter @hrbedford , or btappenden@virginmedia.com . To listen just go to www.hospitalradiobedford.org.uk and just hit the "listen" button.
From: Sue and Richard Lloyd, Dunfermline, Fife
First of all heartfelt thanks for all the work you do to produce such a superb monthly newsletter with all the news from ‘Old Bods’ to whom I wish a blessed Christmas and a wonderful 2020, the year in which Sue and I will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary in April. The above picture was taken at the Military Aviation Museum, Virginia Beach, on the reconstructed ATC Tower rebuilt brick by brick from RAF Goxhall in Lincolnshire. They actually have a flying Mosquito. Recommended!
From: Steve & Jodie Boucher, Leeds
We'd like to wish Movers and ex movers a very merry Christmas and prosperous new year, wherever you are in the world.
From: Andy Downard, Ballarat, VIC
Please pass on seasons greetings to all mover’s, past and present, hoping everyone has a great Christmas and an even better new year in 2020. The photo this year provides confirmation for those that served with me in the ’60s and ‘70s that I was a know it all smart alec. Pictured is me picking up my PhD from Victoria University, aged 68.
From: Liam and Diane Devlin, Port Talbot
From the windy shores of The Mumbles in Swansea Bay, Diane and I wish every one of our friends in the Movements world a Very Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2020.
From: Dougie and Jackie Betambeau, Swindon
Seasons Greetings to all, especially those that will be separated from their families... Our warmest wishes for 2020. The picture shows us renewing our marriage vows in Gretna Green, Scotland.
Mike and Sandra McCann, Beckwithshaw, North Yorks
To all movers, near and far, old and new, Mike and Sandra McCann wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Trevor Porter, Birgu
Seasons Greetings to all past and present Movers. Stay safe and healthy in 2020.
From: Donald Milburn, Swindon, Wilts
To all current brothers, sisters and ex-members of the Movements empire, my best wishes on the forthcoming festivities. May you all enjoy both Christmas and the coming New Year with the same enthusiasm as you do/did in your service career.
From Mike and Gerry Lefebvre, Burton, NB
To all our friends and acquaintances, far and wide and at home, Gerry and I would like to wish you and yours a most memorable and happiest Christmas ever. Our wishes for a healthy, prosperous and peaceful 2020 to all, with a special thank you to you, Tony for doing such wonderful work year after year. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year.
Don Hunter - still globetrotting
Andy Downard picking up his PhD from Victoria University, aged 68
Liam and Diane Devlin spending some time on the Swansea Mumbles
Dougie and Jackie Betambeau are in Scotland renewing their vows
Sue and Richard Lloyd at the Military Aviation Museum, Virginia Beach
Sandra and Mike McCann
in Budapest last year
Trevor Porter soaking up the
sunshine at home in Malta
Donald Milburn enjoying a brew at
his neice's wedding last summer
From Steve and Pam Legg, Wigan, Lancs
Best wishes and seasonal greetings to the Movements family, serving and retired. All the very best for 2020.
From: Gordon and Ann Black, Swindon, Wilts
Ann and I would like to wish all movers past and present all the best for the New Year. In particular those who are separated from their families and those who are no longer with us.
From Tim Buckeridge, Calne, Wilts
I had the honour of attending the Festival of Remembrance at The Royal Albert Hall in November; it was very moving. Seasons Greetings to everyone.
From: Ian & Christine Berry, West Swindon
Seasons's Greetings to all members of the Movements Family wherever you are in the World. Stay safe, stay healthy and have a brilliant 2020.
From: Peter Clayton, Wroughton, Wilts
I would like to wish Movers and their families everywhere a Happy New Year and hope you all had a Merry Christmas. As you are reading this message I will be on the Outer Hebrides, Harris & Lewis to be precise in my camper van. Obviously hoping to avoid any storms but you never know, not just during the winter but almost any time of the year these days. I'm sure it will be very different but enjoyable I hope, hoping to do a bit of cycling in preparation for May 2020 when I cycle from Vatersay to Butt of Lewis or the full length of the Hebrides. Best wishes to you all, near and far.
From: Duncan Andrews, Pinner Middx
New Year‘s Eve is a time for celebration of friendship, of love, of life. It is time to feel thankful for the wonderful people who are next to us but also for our family and friends around the world. I hope that 2020 brings joy and magic into your lives! Happy New Year to all Movers, their families and friends from Duncan, Heather, Poppy and Harvey Andrews, Pinner, London.
From: Gary Farndale, Torpoint, Cornwall
Just to wish all the old movers around the world that I had the pleasure of working and more importantly socialising with throughout my RAF career seasons greetings and a prosperous New year! Attended the cenotaph this year for remembrance service and had great catch up with all the lads and lasses; a real highlight for me. Marching was a giggle but that's another story!
Christine and Ian Berry
cruising on the MSC Sinfonia
Peter Clayton was in the Hebrides earlier this year
The Andrews family, Christmas 2019
Gary Farndale & Kids at the North Pole
which is surprisingly near Plymouth!
Dee and Martin Gledhill at the Bristol Docks when
visiting old pals Alan and Carol Kilpatrick
H Firth at Port Issac, Cornwall
From: Martin and Dee Gledhill, Selby North Yorks
To all Movers around the world, have a great Christmas and a prosperous New Year and keep safe!
From H Firth, Bude, Cornwall
I would like to wish all the members of the Movements Trade past and present and their families, wherever in the World they are, a wonderful Christmas and a Peaceful and Prosperous 2020.
L-R: Martin 'Geordie' Sweeney, Simon Clarke, Colin 'Toyboy' Neat, Roger Gough, Andy Triggs is in front.
From: Mick Goater, Goole, East Yorkshire
Merry Christmas & Happy 2020 to all. Remember, I am in East Yorkshire and always available for a beer or two if you are up this way.
From Alan and Josephine Potts 11100 Narbonne
Merry Christmas to all movers, young and old, near and far and all good fortune for the year ahead.
From: Arthur Rowland, St Ives, Cambs
Message to all Movers, past and present. Trust you are keeping well and have a very merry Christmas and an especially good 2020.
From: Andy Holloway and Family, Durham
Hello to all Movers past and present. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas wherever you are around the globe, and a very happy 2020. I'm currently a Section Manager with ALDI at their Darlington distribution centre and enjoying civilian life. The wife and I are off to San Francisco and Las Vegas in April next year, so if anyone is in the vicinity it'll be good to catch up.
From: Len Bowen, Chisholm ACT
Subject: My First ‘Sharp End’ Christmas
I sort of remember serving Christmas Lunch in the Airmens' Mess at RAF Labuan, Borneo, in 1965. In the true tradition of the RAF the Officers had RV's at the Sergeant’s Mess, and then, suitably primed, proceeded down to the Airmen's Mess. Traditional Christmas fare beautifully cooked by our RAF cooks, chef and the locally-employed civilian catering team despite tropical heat and 90% humidity. Tables well laden with cans of Tiger and Anchor beer (for the un-initiated into Far East Air Force drinking culture at that time, you were either a Tiger drinker or an Anchor drinker, and never the twain shall meet - rather like Ford & Holden supporters at Bathurst).
Also on the table were a number of bottles of wine, but the erks had no taste for "That nobby Officers' piss". They, too, were well lubricated prior to the meal, probably from and by the travelling beer garden run by the visiting RAAF Sabre Squadron. The fighter jocks and their ground support crew had commandeered an Air Dispatch tractor & trailer combination, and having fitted it out with Aussie eskies [‘chilly bins’ for our Kiwi readers] and copious quantities of free Aussie beer, had been circulating round the Station since Christmas Eve, dispensing good will and good cheer to all.
As a result Pilot Officer Bowen, like many of his peers up to and including the CO - Wg Cdr 'Rusty' Pinn - was serving the blokes their meals with a bottle of wine in each pocket of his bush jacket (No 1 [Tropical] Dress required for all Officers & SNCOs serving the meal) and sipping liberally from each as the meal progressed. I do remember getting the Christmas pudding out round the tables - amazingly enough without anointing any of my Air Movements team with hot custard (we all tried to serve our own Flight or Section blokes first)....but thereafter it was something of a blur, and I barely made it back to our own Mess for our Christmas Dinner, via, I was informed the following day by my AMS Shift SNCO, Sgt 'Nobby' Clark with "Just a little afternoon snooze in the Sergeant's Mess Beer Garden, Sir!"
Letters to the Editor
From: Dennis Martin, Woking, Surrey
I wish all Movers, wherever you are, an enjoyable Christmas. My story is detailed in the archives for any one of the same period to see (http://ukmamsoba.org/dennis_martin.htm). I can say that I have not found any airmen who served the same intake as me - Sept 1952 - 55. I think the Movements trade at Lyneham was in its very early days. I have enclosed a picture of me circa 1964 when I welcomed The Beatles to London Airport (later to be renamed as Heathrow) who were performing in London prior to a tour of USA. In the first picture, I am the one on the left - Duty Shift Officer for British Eagle. The Beatles picture was in front of the plane where it had been parked so that the public could glimpse the Fab Four.
From: Howard & Bronwyn Thomas, Caravonica, QLD
Hello to all the Movements Family around the world. 2019 was momentous in many ways. My son, Troy, joined the Australian Army and is training as an Electronic Warfare Operator - who said all the Xbox time was wasted?
My eldest daughter Tahali has completed her Captain's Course (just got promoted) and takes up a position as a Commander of the brand newly ADF formed Cyber Warfare Regiment in January. On the home front living in Cairns in Far North Queensland is as lovely as ever, hot humid and blissful. My youngest daughter Telita has found a position in Childcare and my wife Bronwyn has retrained and now works in Child Safety (a massive problem with our indigenous population that live locally) And for those of you reading this now, I confidently predict 1 day before the election at the time of writing, that Jeremy Corbyn (the most traitorous leader Britain has ever known) will already have been consigned to the dustbin and history where he belongs! I wish you all a great Xmas and Happy New Year.
Trooper Thomas
Digger Thomas
Captain Tahali Thomas
John, Jerry and Joe Gillis, Grand Mira South, NS
Hey Tony, on behalf of my brothers, John, Jerry and me (Joe) whom as you know we were all “Movers” I’d like to wish all our brothers and sisters in the Movements field our best regards for a happy, healthy, holy and honourable Christmas Season with the same continued throughout 2020.
And thank you for keeping us informed through your excellent newsletters. Below please find a couple of pictures of us: in our back yard growing up and in the twilight of our careers. Yes, we were poor, but proud. Cheers Tony...
Joe, Jerry and John
“Jerry, John & Joe” shows us in Uniform years later; the three of us were Air Force Movers. Jerry retired as a BGen, John as a CWO and I as a LCol ; not bad for the sons of a coal miner!
From Dave and Cindy Salmon, Springfield, OR
I would like to wish all Movers past and present a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year from Springfield, Oregon. For the first time since Christmas in Gander 1999, I will be spending Christmas with one of my kids, my oldest daughter Bryony will be with us for 2 weeks over the Christmas holidays.
In May 2020, all being well, I will be in the UK for a couple of weeks, visiting my son, 3 daughters and 3 granddaughters. I hope to see many of you at the Movers' reunion.
Cindy and I, Woodland, CA
Bryony and I, Japanese Gardens, Portland OR, July 2019
From Gordon Gray, Allestree, Derby
I don't know who painted this one, with the Cathedral background but it is a favourite of mine. Not just because I went to school in Salisbury but there has recently been a DVD produced highlighting some of the Spitfire production that was diverted into many local garages, private facilities and bus stations in the town after Southampton had been bombed during WW2. Lord Beaverbrook certainly knew what he was doing.
[The painting is by Philip West and is entitled “From Dawn to Dusk - Spitfire”]
From: Bob Dixon & Family, Royal Wootton Bassett, Wilts
Many thanks for your continuing and excellent service to Movers in the UK and beyond Tony - bringing like people together in this very interesting and uniquely international website.
In sending my greetings to fellow Movers, I have attached a photo taken this summer which might reflect on my current status as grandfather and father now that Service life recedes further into the memory. However, not all brain and activity cells have yet died as can be seen from my T-shirt which was completely disowned by the family as we holidayed in France last summer! The second picture was taken two days before Christmas - it's nice having the clan together. May you all thrive in 2020 – keep takin’ the tablets!
From: Len "Woody" Wood and Family, Pembroke, ON
To all MOVERS, on Deployed Ops around the world, on Domestic Ops and Retired Movers everywhere and their families: We wish all Trappers (Movers) and their families around the World a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year... We also wish you good health & prosperity for 2020. To those deployed on Operational Missions, be safe and return home injury free and in good health - physically and mentally.
Len, formerly 1 AMU, Namao, 8 MAMS
From: Andy Kime, Llangollen
All is well here in Llangollen, and enjoying a few weeks off after a busy year as Acting OC 605 (County of Warwick) Sqn RAuxAF followed by a fascinating mobilisation to the Dept of International Trade to manage the Overseas Delegates attending the Defence and Security Exhibition International in September. Plenty to keep me busy here in Wales but looking forward to my next Reservist adventure in 2020.
Best wishes to all Movers past and present, and wishing you a wonderful Christmas wherever you are.
Photo: T'was in the Vulcan cockpit at the Avro Heritage Museum, Woodford, back in January of this year. I took my Dad (ex-Vulcan Engineering Officer), for a morning out and to deliver the huge Vulcan graphic panel that we used for the London and Manchester RAF100 Aircraft Tour events.
From: Simon Coughlan, Chiseldon, Swindon
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all the movers (and shakers) around the World; especially those serving abroad, or who can’t be with their families this season. To those that left us this year on the ‘Last Chalk’, my thoughts go to their families trying to get through a Christmas without them for the first time. Seasons Greetings to you and your loved ones.
Photo: That was my first job at RAF Brawdy - OC TMSF - we did the trooping in/out of the German Army Tank Regt who had a base at Castlemartin Ranges in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. It was just me and Cpl Neil Baldock who went on to have a distinguished career retiring recently as a WO. It was crazy in those days (mid eighties) the British Army went over to Germany to train and they came over here to train!
The photo was taken on the last day of the season of my last year there. I am shaking hands with my German oppo Capt Manfred (?) - a great guy with a truly British/Monty Python sense of humour.
From: Amanda Herbert-Davies (Part 1 of 2)
Great to see a photo of my father, Sgt Doug Lister, on the Pakistan Evacuation Dec 1971 [photo on the following frame]. I shall print & send a copy off to him - he will be most surprised. He is 90 yrs old now.
He also took part in Operation Shoveller 1970 & his name is on the Jordan plaque. Does anybody know where this plaque is now? My mother recalls sewing Red Cross insignia on his uniform for Jordan. She still has the Red Cross badge. Her story (can’t ask Dad I’m afraid, he suffers from dementia) is that the plane landed under fire. One chap who refused to leave the aircraft was later court martialled. I have no idea if this is true.
Operation Shoveller involved 2 teams from NEAF MAMS (plus one team from UKMAMS). They were tasked with handling Hercules and Argosy aircraft from 70 Squadron in Akrotiri and a swingtail CL44 from a civilian airline, Tradewinds.
The aircraft flew troops with their equipment to Amman to help keep peace in Jordan after an attempt was made to overthrow King Hussain of Jordan by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. For their part in the Operation, the teams were presented with The People of Jordan's Medal. This is currently on display in the UKMAMS HQ.
The inscription reads: NEAF MAMS The People of Jordan’s Medal presented to the Near East Air Force Mobile Air Movements Flight in October 1970. It was given in gratitude for the NEAF MAMS handling of the relief airlift utilising Hercules and Argosy aircraft of No 70 Sqn and CL44 aircraft owned by Tradewinds into Amman resulting from a Palestine Liberation Organisations plot to oust King Hussain of Jordan.
Those MAMS team members listed on the plaque: Flt Lt James, FS Hudson, FS Ainslough, Sgt Lister, Sgt Henderson, Cpl Turner, Cpl Wood, SAC Marlow, SAC Stevens, SAC Barfield, SAC Husband, Sgt Mason, FO Wood.
From: Amanda Herbert-Davies (Part 2 of 2)
In the photo you have of Operation Hamish, Dad is wearing his trade-mark black rimmed glasses, he had rather poor eyesight. He was also profoundly deaf in one ear (he bribed the medic 12 shillings to get into the RAF).
Both NEAF MAMS and UKMAMS teams were involved in the evacuation of refugees from Chaklala to Karachi in 1971. Standing, left to right: Frank Holmes, Peter Herring, Keith Parker, John (Troop) Smith, Bob Thacker, Chas Dalgleish, Norrie Radcliffe, John Middleton and Roy Millington (Movs Masirah). Kneeling left to right: Doug Lister, Colin Allen, Hugh Curran, Charlie Marlow and Keith Simmonds.
From: Mark Attrill, Tallinn
Fellow Old Bods - Greetings once again from Tallinn!
In spite of my grand statement that 2019 would be my last year in the Service, I find myself extended for yet another year and on course to have served for 41 years during 2020.
It's been another extremely busy year here in Estonia with work and anniversaries, which have included the Centenary of the Estonian Air Force and I now look forward to further challenges and opportunities.
All the best to you and yours for Christmas 2019 and the New Year of 2020, wherever you are in the world.
Special thoughts go to those who will be on duty over the festive season and, of course, our esteemed colleagues who have left us for the crewroom in the sky during the last year.
In the photo is yours truly at the Former Soviet Nuclear Submarine Training Base in Paldiski in November 2019. The site is still subject to a 40-year nuclear clear-up operation akin to that in Chernobyl.
From: Ed and Karen Stout, Aylesbury
Karen and I wish all movers and their families, all over the world, a very Happy Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous year ahead.
From: Alan and Barbara Walker, Burnley, Lancs
To all Movers, Past & Present, wherever you may at this time of the year, a Very Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous New Year.
From: Kev Koslowski-Smith & Clan, Cambridge
To all you worn out Movers, with bad backs & aching joints, have a fantastic Yule & may 2020 be as crazy as you need it to be.
From: Dan Dupuis, Comox, BC
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Dupuis clan Comox British Columbia.
From: John & Rosemarie Harney, Perth, WA
That time of the season again when we think of past times and people we worked with wherever we were stationed throughout the world with RAF Movements and MAMS teams and remember those who have passed on throughout the year. So, to all Movers active and retired and all members of the OBA and your families, Rosemarie and I wish you all a very Merry Xmas and a safe and Happy New Year 2020.
From: Jacques Leclerc and Sophie, St-Alexandre de Kamouraska, QC
Merry Chrismas and Happy new year to everyone. Joyeux Noel at Bonne année.
From: Allan and Kay Mitchley, Rhyl, Denbighshire
This year we have closed the guesthouse and this is the first year since 2002 that we have not hosted Stars from Panto for 6 weeks at this time. Myself and Kay, who still remember many of us older movers, would like to wish you and all those serving and now retired a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. We hope to be able to meet up with some former movers next year.
Steve, Carol and Luke Perry, Royal Wootton Bassett
Best wishes to all movers and their families worldwide, especially those away from their loved ones. Have a great Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
From: John & Kay Tudor, Stevenston, Ayrshire
We wish that you, yours and all movers from all countries have a lovely Christmas and very happy New Year. Stay safe everyone.
Dan Dupuis - a blast from the past
John Harney having coffee in the garden
on a trip to UK earlier this year.
Jacques Leclerc and Sophie - best friends
Allan and Kay Mitchley - retired at last
Luke, Carol and Steve Perry -
spending quality time together
Kay & John Tudor - "The two of us"
From: Keith and Daphne Parker, Bowerhill, Wilts
Another year has passed and I'm still here, Daphne and I would like to say A Very Happy Christmas and a safe New Year to all Movers everywhere especially those away from their families. Also a special Happy Christmas to all my Canadian and American Mover friends. This year I managed to get in touch with two old mover friends who asked me to add on to this message, Tony Ferrison and Dave Gillinder both send their regards. Finally we must reflect on the guys who are no longer here but in that rather large Crewroom in the Sky, and let their families know that they are in the thoughts of all Movers.
From: Michael and Susan Stoddard , Carrying Place, ON
To all the movers may you have a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year in 2020
From: Mark (Turk) Bird, Edmonton, AB
Greetings to all fellow movers and families. Have a very Merry Christmas and a safe, prosperous New Year.
Richard (Kit) and Christine Kitson, Doddington, Cambs
Merry Christmas to all the movers around the world and especially anyone I had the pleasure to work and play with!
From: Mick and Sue Bedford, Newton Abbot, Devon
Sue and I would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and all the very best for 2020.xx
NEAF MAMS Blue Team of 1973, 46 years later, to celebrate the life of John (Hank) Middleton, our much loved chiefy.
Neil Middleton, Peter Orton, Peter Herring, Frank Holmes and Gordon Black.
From: Bernie & Osa Lafrance, Nanaimo, BC
To all my friends and movers may this season be joyful and greatly appreciated allowing for lots of good health and cheers. Blessings to each of you and all the best for 2020.
From: Syd Avery, Guardamar del Segura, Alicante
Mr. Syd Avery and Miss Riet Poissonnier will not be taking a full page advertisement in either the Daily Telegraph or the Daily Star (covering all bases) to wish all and sundry an extremely Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous 2020. Instead they will use this far more widely reaching platform which personages of greater intelligence and more empathy peruse. Having stated our case, we wish all chaps, chapesses, and families, whether they be at home or away, (come home safely, soon), a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2020. Take care of each other and go well in whatever you do. May your landings equal your take-offs.
From: Jim and Margaret Mackintosh, Glasgow
We both would like to wish all Movers and their families a very Merry Xmas and a Happy, Healthy 2020. Special thanks to Tony for the sterling work he does on our behalf.
From: Lynne and John Leek, 79380 La Ronde
Wishing all past and present movers a very festive Christmas and a super 2020!
From: Neil Middleton, Ipswich, Suffolk
Here’s wishing yourself and all who I know (and those I don’t), a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.
From: Lee Kincart, Basel
All the best for Christmas and the New Year to all Movers young and old alike. Take care, Kink
From: Don and Judy Lloyd, Calgary, AB
To Tony and all movers worldwide, may the warmth of the Christmas tree combined with the blessings of the Nativity help to make this holiday season the best it can be wherever you are stationed. We also include in our thoughts those that cannot be with us. These warm wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous and Happy New Year are extended to all from us both.
Charlie Marlow, Freshwater, Isle of Wight
A very Merry Christmas to all and may 2020 be a happy, exciting and peaceful time for everyone.
From: David & Darrelle Moss, Sorbie, Dumfries and Galloway
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Prosperous and most importantly Safe and Peaceful New Year. As always to those of you who due to the exigencies of service duty are away and unable to spend Christmas with family and friends, know that you are always in our hearts and minds, and we hope you are all home safe as soon as possible.
From: Andy and Penelope Spinks, Aylsham, Norfolk
As we leave the old year and enter a new one, our thoughts are with all Movers deployed away from their families or otherwise having to work over the holidays. I have nothing but continued admiration for all the good work that is done by our successors throughout the year. And to you Tony for such a fantastic production, keeping us up to date throughout the year. Happy Christmas everyone!
Neil Middleton - Favorite Grandad!
Lee Kincart and Mark Price celebrating
his 50th in Ireland last September
Don and Judy Lloyd's Christmas tree
waiting for Santa to arrive in Calgary
Charlie Marlow and eldest daughter, Collette
David Moss at the RAF memorial in Newton
Stewart on Remembrance Sunday
Andy and Penelope Spinks, chillaxing in Venice
From: Mike and Pat Green, Coventry
A very merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year to movers everywhere (‘C’ Team UK MAMS 1964-67).
From: Fritz and Carol von Kaitz, Edmonton AB
We would like to wish all movers, whether at home or deployed, a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous 2020.
From: Paul and Ellie Austin, Marham
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all Movers, past and present, whether you be in the UK or somewhere else around the world. Traditionally, this is a time to catch up with special friends and family so how about we all toast each other on Christmas Day and send festive vibes across the globe. Be good.
From: Ken Usher, Edmonton, AB
How time has passed from days ago and I would like to wish all Movers around the world, at home and overseas, to have a very Merry Christmas and all the very best of health and happiness in 2020. Please, let us always keep in our hearts, those that have ascended to the Great Warehouse above the clouds! God Bless!
From: Mick Cocker, Swindon, Wilts
With Christmas looming I thought I had better put something down to reach out to that fantastic bunch of people around the world. I am constantly astonished by the friendships that endure both time and distance. Friendships forged in both happy, sad, hard and easy times. I often think back to the time I first decided to join the RAF and think how lucky I was to make that decision, and better still, get the chance to spend 30 years as a Mover. Can I just wish all those that know me, and those that don't, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Anyone in the Old Town of Swindon area is welcome to call in for a brew... I promise not to force them to buy any fishing tackle!
From Paul and Penny Newman, Peterborough, Cambs
Season's greetings and salutations to all Movers past and present. Special thanks to Tony for the fantastic newsletter!
From: Mick Sullivan, Carterton Oxon
Seasons Greetings to all Movers both Veterans and serving. We have lost a few more to the final departure lounge this year. I hope you all have a great Christmas and New Year. Eat, drink, but stay safe and those on Ops keep your head down.
From: Ken Davie, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
I look back on my years in UKMAMS with great nostalgia. Wonderful trips, wonderful friends, lazy days in Abingdon at the pubs. Bloody marvellous! Happy Holidays to all of the movers in the world who did such a great job for decades in horrible conditions for the most part. I would go back tonight and relive it all again if I could. Sharjah, Dubai, Belize, all of the Norway and Denmark trips, Germany, France, Ireland, Machrihanish, oh God did I just say that? The back of beyond but lovely (if a wee bit dour) people. Have a wonderful Holiday Season everyone!
From: Ian and Angela Sloan, Aberlour, Banff
I would like to send all my bets wishes for Christmas and a very happy new year to all FEAF MAMS especially but also to anyone who remembers me from Brize and Lossiemouth. Thank for your hard work doing the newsletter Tony, I do really look forward to it each month, So have a nice time and don't drink too much!
From: Tony Mullen, Toowoomba, QLD
From a very hot, dry and smoky Australia a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2020 to all ex Movers wherever they may be.
From: OBie O’Brien, Corinda, QLD
G’Day Tony and Movers of the World. Money’s tight, times are hard, so here’s OBie’s Christmas Card! This morning, 4th December, the fires, covering some 47,500 hectares are still out of control, and the coastal highway is cut/impassable in both directions ... not a good start for our coastal communities who are tourist/holiday season dependant. Cop Yers, and do enjoy the Festering Season.
From: Frank & Janet Johnston, Navarre, FL
Season’s greeting to one and all from the Sunshine State!
From: Steve Tomlinson and Muriel, Tenerife, QLD
Seasons Greetings to all from my partner, Muriel and I, taken at the Brisbane Marriott Christmas Day lunch. Here's hoping you all had a very Merry Christmas & wishing you a prospective Happy, and safe, New Year. Roll-on 2020!
Mick Cocker's business in Swindon
(Cheap advertising if you ask me!)
Paul Newman over Loch Leven/Portmoak,
an annual occurrence.
Paul and Penny Newman
in Tenerife last Christmas
Mick Sullivan with Robbie Collins last April
Ken Davie having a meaningful
conversation with a giraffe
Ian and Angela Sloan celebrated their 50th in 2018
Tony Mullen visited the Sydney Opera House
OBie O'Brien with the smoke from
the bush fires in the background
Frank and Janet Johnston spending
Christmas at home on the Panhandle
Steve Tomlinson is cuddling with Santa
Santa is cuddling with Steve
Tomlinson's partner, Muriel
From: Pete Orton, Camberley, Surrey
Best wishes to young and old movers around the globe. Thanks to this site, I have re- kindled friendships from over 50 years ago. Thank you Tony.
From: Brian and Lussi Gibson, Paralimni
Wishing all serving, retired members and their families of the Movements World a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hoping 2020 will be a good one for you all.
From: Aaron Reynolds, Darwin, NT
Seasons greeting to all the awesome Movers in the world, have a great break if you can, enjoy the beginnings of a new decade and remember, it always gets better…
From: Ian Stacey, Nashville, IN
Now living among the hills and forests of Southern Indiana USA and wishing all my old colleagues and friends the very best for this festive season and the coming year (Delta Team Leader 1964 - 1967).
From: Bruce Gill, Newton Abbot, Devon
A very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year to all movers, past and present.
The Royal New Zealand Air Force Operation Christmas Drop 2019 crew, maintenance and support team.
The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is participating for the first time in Operation Christmas Drop in Guam, packaging and delivering supplies to islands in the Western Pacific.
Operation Christmas Drop is an annual United States Air Force tradition that dates back to 1952. It started when locals on the island of Kapingamarangi, in the Federated States of Micronesia, waved at the aircrew of a passing WB-50 Superfortress, prompting the crew to gather supplies from the aircraft and drop them by parachute to people on the islands. Now in its 68th year, Operation Christmas Drop includes air forces from Australia and Japan, and this year the RNZAF has sent a Hercules C-130 aircraft and personnel from №40 Squadron to participate.
Air Component Commander Air Commodore Tim Walshe said the RNZAF was keen to enter into the spirit of Christmas by being part of the operation, which was also an opportunity to work with partners and gain useful training. “We’re pleased to be working with our military partners on this operation, bringing some Christmas cheer but also delivering much-needed items to the people on these islands,’’ Air Commodore Walshe said.
Flight Lieutenant Joe Hargraves, the Detachment Commander for the operation, said the crew were excited about working with the other nations delivering supplies to outlying Micronesian islands. The operation was also a valuable opportunity for the crew to practice low-cost, low-altitude airdrops from C-130 aircraft over un-surveyed drop zones, Flight Lieutenant Hargraves said. “These skills are very important during humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions, so participating in Operation Christmas Drop is an invaluable experience for us all.”
During the week-long operation, supplies will be delivered to more than 20,000 people living on 56 Micronesian islands spread over 1.8 million square nautical miles. The packages include food, tools and clothing, plus other goods donated by private donors, charitable organisations and the University of Guam.
RNZAF CPL Toni Thompson goes through a pre-flight check at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam
Aircrew assigned to the Royal New Zealand Air Force and U.S. Air Force prepare a Low-Cost, Low-Altitude bundle on board their C-130H
Royal New Zealand Air Force loadmasters, CPL Toni Thompson (right) and SGT Ethan Moran, (left) run through their checklists.
An air sickness bag holder is adorned with festive holiday decorations on the C-130H
Sgt Ethan Moran and CPL Toni Thompson await the green light.
Sgt Ethan Moran and CPL Toni Thompson prepare to cut the supplies.free
Green on - Sgt Ethan Moran and CPL Toni Thompson cut the supplies free .
Low-Cost, Low-Altitude bundles fall to a Micronesian island as part of Operation Christmas Drop 2019, Dec. 11, 2019.
CPL Toni Thompson collects parachute straps above a Micronesian island after dropping supplies.
Sgt Ethan Moran and CPL Toni Thompson wave to locals after dropping supplies.
This newsletter
is dedicated to
the memories of:
Jean Cowan, wife of Pete Cowan (RAF)
Anna Hubbard, wife of Keith Hubbard (RAF)
If you wish to help support the OBA:
In Canada, via e-mail transfer
Overseas (including the UK), you may send Cheque or Money Order to:
Tony Gale
602-60 Rue Cormier,
Gatineau, Quebec, J9H 6B4
Canada