RAAF Air Movements Aid Vanuatu Relief
Air Force logistics specialists have provided vital support to earthquake relief efforts in Vanuatu. The 23 Squadron Air Movements team at RAAF Base Amberley was at the forefront of delivering critical humanitarian aid to Australia’s neighbours. The first Australian relief flight, carrying supplies and personnel, arrived in Vanuatu soon after the 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck in mid-December 2024.
Logistics Specialist Sergeant David Hulse, of Brisbane, is no stranger to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions, with experience gained during a career heading into its eleventh year. “We received the call to support the humanitarian crisis in Vanuatu and within 24 hours were fully operational, demonstrating our ability to respond in a flexible and fluid manner,” Sergeant Hulse said.
Australian disaster response teams were assisted by 23 Squadron aviators in documenting and loading team members and equipment for flights to Vanuatu. “Our team is used to working to and managing competing priorities daily, with safely getting cargo prepared and loaded being our top priority,” Sergeant Hulse said. “Our response was a perfect example of how air movements can flex its muscles. Everything we were trained to do was tested, and we completed the task safely and efficiently.”
Numerous C-17A Globemaster flights from 36 Squadron and C-130J Hercules from 37 Squadron supported the operation in Vanuatu, with the aircraft creating an air bridge to deliver essential relief and personnel, along with repatriating Australian citizens and permanent residents.
defence.gov.au
Logistics Specialist Sergeant David Hulse, of Brisbane, is no stranger to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions, with experience gained during a career heading into its eleventh year. “We received the call to support the humanitarian crisis in Vanuatu and within 24 hours were fully operational, demonstrating our ability to respond in a flexible and fluid manner,” Sergeant Hulse said.
Australian disaster response teams were assisted by 23 Squadron aviators in documenting and loading team members and equipment for flights to Vanuatu. “Our team is used to working to and managing competing priorities daily, with safely getting cargo prepared and loaded being our top priority,” Sergeant Hulse said. “Our response was a perfect example of how air movements can flex its muscles. Everything we were trained to do was tested, and we completed the task safely and efficiently.”
Numerous C-17A Globemaster flights from 36 Squadron and C-130J Hercules from 37 Squadron supported the operation in Vanuatu, with the aircraft creating an air bridge to deliver essential relief and personnel, along with repatriating Australian citizens and permanent residents.
defence.gov.au
Aviation Logistics Specialist Sergeant David Hulse, of 23 Squadron, is part of the team supporting earthquake relief efforts in Vanuatu
From: Fred Martin, Godalming, Surrey
Subject: Re: UKMAMS OBA OBB #113024
Hi Tony,
I have been a life long supporter of Brentford Football Club (FC) and yesterday went to see them beat Leicester City for the first time in 70 years. It brought to mind a story I would like to share.
In 1963, I was an SAC on night duty at RAF Khormaksar in the passenger section. We received a call from HQ MEC saying they had a "Compassionate A" (Comp A) case to be emplaned on the first available flight to the UK. The next flight in was from Hong Kong, bound for Lyneham. A quick check found that the flight was full, mainly with soldiers from the Royal Leicestershire Regt who were stationed in Hong Kong at that time. Leicester City were due to face Manchester United at Wembley in the FA Cup final. As a PR exercise, extra leave and indulgence flights had been arranged for lots of the Royal Leicestershire Regt to fly home to support their team.
Also on board was the Duke of Kent who was stationed in Hong Kong with the Army and was travelling back to the UK to attend the wedding of his sister, Princess Alexandra, to Angus Ogilvy. The Duke was travelling indulgence, and as a Captain was the highest ranked on board. Queen's Regulations clearly stated that in the event of a priority, indulgence passengers had to be offloaded, senior ranks first.
When we told our DAMO that we intended to offload the Duke, he turned a whiter shade of pale and promptly told us we couldn’t do it because the Duke was “Royalty”. We tried insisting that “rules were rules” and we had no intention of offloading any of the Leicester boys.
Urgent calls were made by our DAMO to HQ MEC and the Station Commander and we were asked to find someone who may be happy to be offloaded. Eventually we found an RAF sergeant who was returning to the UK for a course and was prepared to spend a couple of days enjoying the delights of Aden until another flight could be found for him.
The Duke and the Leicester boys stayed on the flight and we got the Comp A away; an interesting occurrence.
Best Wishes
Fred
Subject: Re: UKMAMS OBA OBB #113024
Hi Tony,
I have been a life long supporter of Brentford Football Club (FC) and yesterday went to see them beat Leicester City for the first time in 70 years. It brought to mind a story I would like to share.
In 1963, I was an SAC on night duty at RAF Khormaksar in the passenger section. We received a call from HQ MEC saying they had a "Compassionate A" (Comp A) case to be emplaned on the first available flight to the UK. The next flight in was from Hong Kong, bound for Lyneham. A quick check found that the flight was full, mainly with soldiers from the Royal Leicestershire Regt who were stationed in Hong Kong at that time. Leicester City were due to face Manchester United at Wembley in the FA Cup final. As a PR exercise, extra leave and indulgence flights had been arranged for lots of the Royal Leicestershire Regt to fly home to support their team.
Also on board was the Duke of Kent who was stationed in Hong Kong with the Army and was travelling back to the UK to attend the wedding of his sister, Princess Alexandra, to Angus Ogilvy. The Duke was travelling indulgence, and as a Captain was the highest ranked on board. Queen's Regulations clearly stated that in the event of a priority, indulgence passengers had to be offloaded, senior ranks first.
When we told our DAMO that we intended to offload the Duke, he turned a whiter shade of pale and promptly told us we couldn’t do it because the Duke was “Royalty”. We tried insisting that “rules were rules” and we had no intention of offloading any of the Leicester boys.
Urgent calls were made by our DAMO to HQ MEC and the Station Commander and we were asked to find someone who may be happy to be offloaded. Eventually we found an RAF sergeant who was returning to the UK for a course and was prepared to spend a couple of days enjoying the delights of Aden until another flight could be found for him.
The Duke and the Leicester boys stayed on the flight and we got the Comp A away; an interesting occurrence.
Best Wishes
Fred
From: Andy Kay, Bowling Green, KY
Subject: Re Tony Davies
Hi Tony,
I just got around to reading the November issue of the OBA newsletter and it saddened me greatly to learn of the passing of Tony Davies. Tony and I were in SOAF together (I might have been the ex-corporal that picked him up at Seeb airport on his arrival!) and during my 8 years there we worked in the cargo shed at Seeb airport (SOAF side). Tony was NCO i/c one shift of Omani and Pakistani airmen and I had the other shift.
Tony was always the ultimate professional in everything we did, and a real gentleman. We were a pretty tight group in the Sergeants' Mess at Khasab where our accommodation was and spent many evenings in the mess either watching the video tapes of UK TV shows that were taped by wives back home and sent out on the weekly 1-11 from Hurn airport or playing Trivial Pursuit which none of us were very good at!
Tony's wife, Jill, came out a few times for visits and Tony and Jill always used to host barbecues at the small apartment that was made available for family stays - I'm pretty sure their son Andrew was on at least a couple of those visits. I would be grateful if you could pass along my email to Andrew as I would like to send him my personal condolences. I will have a search through the boxes of photos I have in my garage to see what I can dig out from those days and send the scans along to him.
Andy Kay
Subject: Re Tony Davies
Hi Tony,
I just got around to reading the November issue of the OBA newsletter and it saddened me greatly to learn of the passing of Tony Davies. Tony and I were in SOAF together (I might have been the ex-corporal that picked him up at Seeb airport on his arrival!) and during my 8 years there we worked in the cargo shed at Seeb airport (SOAF side). Tony was NCO i/c one shift of Omani and Pakistani airmen and I had the other shift.
Tony was always the ultimate professional in everything we did, and a real gentleman. We were a pretty tight group in the Sergeants' Mess at Khasab where our accommodation was and spent many evenings in the mess either watching the video tapes of UK TV shows that were taped by wives back home and sent out on the weekly 1-11 from Hurn airport or playing Trivial Pursuit which none of us were very good at!
Tony's wife, Jill, came out a few times for visits and Tony and Jill always used to host barbecues at the small apartment that was made available for family stays - I'm pretty sure their son Andrew was on at least a couple of those visits. I would be grateful if you could pass along my email to Andrew as I would like to send him my personal condolences. I will have a search through the boxes of photos I have in my garage to see what I can dig out from those days and send the scans along to him.
Andy Kay
Canada to Purchase 16 P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft
The Royal Canadian Air Force has selected Boeing’s P-8A Poseidon as the only aircraft suitable to replace its existing fleet of CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircrafts.
The Canadian government issued a press release informing of the selection of the Poseidon as a replacement for its CP-140 Aurora aircraft (Canada’s version of the P-3 Orion), which were originally acquired in 1980 and will be retired from active service by 2030.
A Request for Information (RFI) was released in February 2022 to obtain information from industry. Following engagements with industry and Canada’s closest allies, the government has determined that the P-8A Poseidon is the only currently available aircraft that meets all of the CMMA operational requirements, namely anti-submarine warfare and C4ISR. This platform is a proven capability that is operated by several of Canada’s defence partners including all of its Five Eyes allies—an intelligence alliance formed by the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand—as well as Norway, and South Korea. Germany has also recently purchased this platform.
With a view to exploring this option in more detail, Canada has recently submitted a Letter of Request (LOR) through the United States government’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program outlining Canada’s requirements and requesting an offer. These requirements include up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft and associated equipment and initial servicing, as well as access to intellectual property and technical data.
The issuance of a LOR does not commit Canada to purchasing the P-8A Poseidon and the project remains in Options Analysis. The final decision will be based on the capability offered, availability, pricing and benefits to Canadian industry.
aviacionline.com
The Canadian government issued a press release informing of the selection of the Poseidon as a replacement for its CP-140 Aurora aircraft (Canada’s version of the P-3 Orion), which were originally acquired in 1980 and will be retired from active service by 2030.
A Request for Information (RFI) was released in February 2022 to obtain information from industry. Following engagements with industry and Canada’s closest allies, the government has determined that the P-8A Poseidon is the only currently available aircraft that meets all of the CMMA operational requirements, namely anti-submarine warfare and C4ISR. This platform is a proven capability that is operated by several of Canada’s defence partners including all of its Five Eyes allies—an intelligence alliance formed by the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand—as well as Norway, and South Korea. Germany has also recently purchased this platform.
With a view to exploring this option in more detail, Canada has recently submitted a Letter of Request (LOR) through the United States government’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program outlining Canada’s requirements and requesting an offer. These requirements include up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft and associated equipment and initial servicing, as well as access to intellectual property and technical data.
The issuance of a LOR does not commit Canada to purchasing the P-8A Poseidon and the project remains in Options Analysis. The final decision will be based on the capability offered, availability, pricing and benefits to Canadian industry.
aviacionline.com
From: David Powell, Princes Risborough, Bucks
Subject: UK 2025 Honours & Awards
Hi Tony,
Thank you for the latest mammoth Christmas virtual-group-hug OBA newsletter.
Also, just picked up the latest UK Honours and Awards, military bit. No, didn't recognise any of the names. However, I did see that the RAF Air and Space Commander's Team Commendations included the UKMAMS Op CHAMBRAY Detachment. Well done those involved.
As Op CHAMBRAY was a new one for me, wound up t'internet to find out that, apparently, last April within days of the Hamas-Israel war starting, the British government launched Operation Chambray aiming (and I quote), "To contain the spread of war by providing political support to Israel, humanitarian aid for Palestinians and military assistance to the United States as it fought off attacks on its forces across the Middle East." Which seems a cunning multi dimensional plan produced by Black Adder's Baldrick based on backing all the horses in a race to ensure a win!
All the best for 2025. Stay warm, stay well, stay safe.
David
Subject: UK 2025 Honours & Awards
Hi Tony,
Thank you for the latest mammoth Christmas virtual-group-hug OBA newsletter.
Also, just picked up the latest UK Honours and Awards, military bit. No, didn't recognise any of the names. However, I did see that the RAF Air and Space Commander's Team Commendations included the UKMAMS Op CHAMBRAY Detachment. Well done those involved.
As Op CHAMBRAY was a new one for me, wound up t'internet to find out that, apparently, last April within days of the Hamas-Israel war starting, the British government launched Operation Chambray aiming (and I quote), "To contain the spread of war by providing political support to Israel, humanitarian aid for Palestinians and military assistance to the United States as it fought off attacks on its forces across the Middle East." Which seems a cunning multi dimensional plan produced by Black Adder's Baldrick based on backing all the horses in a race to ensure a win!
All the best for 2025. Stay warm, stay well, stay safe.
David
From: Steve Sparkes, Lyminge, Kent
Subject: Petition: Abolish the basic State Pension,
increase the new State Pension and pay to all.
Hi Tony,
This will be of interest to OBA members on the old UK State Pension which is now a lot less than than the new State Pension; "Abolish the basic State Pension, increase the new State Pension and pay to all."
If any British Citizen (including those living overseas) wish to sign this active petition, please follow the link: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/700122
The petition deadline is 25 May 2025.
Steve Sparkes
Subject: Petition: Abolish the basic State Pension,
increase the new State Pension and pay to all.
Hi Tony,
This will be of interest to OBA members on the old UK State Pension which is now a lot less than than the new State Pension; "Abolish the basic State Pension, increase the new State Pension and pay to all."
If any British Citizen (including those living overseas) wish to sign this active petition, please follow the link: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/700122
The petition deadline is 25 May 2025.
Steve Sparkes
From: Mick Craner, Yeovil, Somerset
Subject: The Early Hercules Days…
Hello Tony,
In the early days of the Hercules, flying as an Air Quartermaster (AQM) with 36 Sqn, I was tasked on a double-crew Changi trip. The other AQM was my very good friend, Tom Conway. After checking in at the Changi Creek Hotel [RAF transit hotel], we decided to dine at Mr. Lim’s open-air restaurant in Changi Village. The next day we went to the Yacht Club, Tom borrowed a yacht and, accompanied by a case of cold Tiger beer, we went sailing.
That evening, a party had been arranged by a friend of Toms named Bill Jenner. Bill was to be tour-ex shortly and was posted to St Mawgan. Bill had a problem; he had a large yacht that he would have to sell in Singapore at a loss. We of course could not allow this to happen and told Bill we would take his yacht back to the UK on OUR aircraft.
At about 3am, we borrowed a Land Rover and towed the yacht on its trailer through Changi Village across the concrete to the Hercules. After loading and lashing down the yacht, we made out a F1380 and manifests and convinced the DAMO that all was ok as it was a training flight.
On arrival back in the UK, Lyneham was fog bound and we were diverted to Thorney Island. UK Customs said there could be duty to pay unless the yacht originated in the UK, Tom assured them that the yacht came from the Chichester area. The next day we flew to Lyneham then offloaded and towed the yacht with Tom’s car to his married quarter and put it into Tom’s back garden.
About a week later, Tom and I were part of a triple-crew detailed for MCT at St Mawgan. Tom convinced our CO that it would be useful to relieve a backlog of indulgence freight for St Mawgan. The yacht was loaded onto the Hercules. On arrival at St Mawgan, we borrowed a Land Rover and towed the yacht to the Sgts’ Mess car park. Bill was absolutely delighted to see his pride and joy through the window!
My Good Friend Tom passed away in 1992 at age 63, having been present at the Christmas Island atom bomb tests.
Thomas Ignatius Conway 24,48 and 36 Sqns plus 242 OCU. 1929- 1992. "Sure, if you were galloping by on a horse, you would never notice."
Subject: The Early Hercules Days…
Hello Tony,
In the early days of the Hercules, flying as an Air Quartermaster (AQM) with 36 Sqn, I was tasked on a double-crew Changi trip. The other AQM was my very good friend, Tom Conway. After checking in at the Changi Creek Hotel [RAF transit hotel], we decided to dine at Mr. Lim’s open-air restaurant in Changi Village. The next day we went to the Yacht Club, Tom borrowed a yacht and, accompanied by a case of cold Tiger beer, we went sailing.
That evening, a party had been arranged by a friend of Toms named Bill Jenner. Bill was to be tour-ex shortly and was posted to St Mawgan. Bill had a problem; he had a large yacht that he would have to sell in Singapore at a loss. We of course could not allow this to happen and told Bill we would take his yacht back to the UK on OUR aircraft.
At about 3am, we borrowed a Land Rover and towed the yacht on its trailer through Changi Village across the concrete to the Hercules. After loading and lashing down the yacht, we made out a F1380 and manifests and convinced the DAMO that all was ok as it was a training flight.
On arrival back in the UK, Lyneham was fog bound and we were diverted to Thorney Island. UK Customs said there could be duty to pay unless the yacht originated in the UK, Tom assured them that the yacht came from the Chichester area. The next day we flew to Lyneham then offloaded and towed the yacht with Tom’s car to his married quarter and put it into Tom’s back garden.
About a week later, Tom and I were part of a triple-crew detailed for MCT at St Mawgan. Tom convinced our CO that it would be useful to relieve a backlog of indulgence freight for St Mawgan. The yacht was loaded onto the Hercules. On arrival at St Mawgan, we borrowed a Land Rover and towed the yacht to the Sgts’ Mess car park. Bill was absolutely delighted to see his pride and joy through the window!
My Good Friend Tom passed away in 1992 at age 63, having been present at the Christmas Island atom bomb tests.
Thomas Ignatius Conway 24,48 and 36 Sqns plus 242 OCU. 1929- 1992. "Sure, if you were galloping by on a horse, you would never notice."
RNZAF wants 737s or A321s to replace aging Boeing 757s
NZ7572, one of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s two Boeing 757s, at Pegasus Airfield in Antarctica
The Royal New Zealand Air Force has begun a tender process for the replacement of its two Boeing 757 aircraft, naming Boeing 737 MAX 8s or Airbus A321s as their preferred options.
Entering Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) service in 2003 after ten years with Dutch airline Transavia, the air arm’s two Boeing 757-200s replaced two Boeing 727s which had served since the 1980s. With both airframes over 30 years of age, increased maintenance costs and unreliability are pushing forward a “fast tracked” procurement process for replacements to arrive before the end of 2027.
Acting as long-range multirole transports, the RNZAF’s 757s have travelled the globe on missions supporting overseas operations, humanitarian relief, executive transport, and medical evacuations. Modified shortly after their acquisition, the former civilian airliners were fitted with large cargo doors allowing the loading of up to 11 pallets of cargo or palletized equipment into the main cabin. Integrated boarding stairs were also retrofitted to improve the 757s’ capability to operate from austere locations without ground equipment available.
theaviationist.com
Entering Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) service in 2003 after ten years with Dutch airline Transavia, the air arm’s two Boeing 757-200s replaced two Boeing 727s which had served since the 1980s. With both airframes over 30 years of age, increased maintenance costs and unreliability are pushing forward a “fast tracked” procurement process for replacements to arrive before the end of 2027.
Acting as long-range multirole transports, the RNZAF’s 757s have travelled the globe on missions supporting overseas operations, humanitarian relief, executive transport, and medical evacuations. Modified shortly after their acquisition, the former civilian airliners were fitted with large cargo doors allowing the loading of up to 11 pallets of cargo or palletized equipment into the main cabin. Integrated boarding stairs were also retrofitted to improve the 757s’ capability to operate from austere locations without ground equipment available.
theaviationist.com
From: Barry Tappenden, Shortstown, Beds
Subject: Memorabilia
Good evening Tony,
Attached is a photo of the most useful item I had. Used constantly up to a month ago when it was stolen from my shed on the allotment.
Subject: Memorabilia
Good evening Tony,
Attached is a photo of the most useful item I had. Used constantly up to a month ago when it was stolen from my shed on the allotment.
From: Derek Barron, Calne, Wilts
Subject: Purloined Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Tales of Vikings, Scrambled Egg and Bratwursts
Waaay back in the last century, a day trip to Sumburgh turned into a weathered-in night stop. Down we went to the bar to spend a jolly evening amongst the local folks. During the evening, I spied, way up on the wall, this beautiful Viking axe, "Aha said I, that should be ours," my Viking ancestry stirring. The opportunity for change of ownership arose when the nice barman closed up for the night leaving us drinks on the bar. After much giggling and climbing on each other, we retrieved ’our’ axe. Next morning, while fitting the axe into my hanging wardrobe, I realized that it was not the axe of high quality that I had seen through beer-enhanced eyes, but an inferior home-made thing. Nevertheless it hung in the UKMAMS Crew Room for many years.
A quick Sunday trip to somewhere in the Med resulted in a short stop at Gibraltar. Movements were closed so we ended up in the Visiting Aircraft Servicing Flight (VASF) facilities. We grabbed a coffee and hung about for an hour when I spotted this unemployed RAF Officer's hat; I thought this has UKMAMS Crew Room written all over it. So, I disappeared it! Monday morning comes and I get a call from Ops to come and see the Wingco asap. Great, I thought, a special mission for me, pat on the back, promotion! I grab the said hat and jumped in my car, and as I’m driving I noticed the hat had loads of scrambled egg on it, Ooops!
"Sit, Sgt Barron!" (soon to be LAC?) said the Wingco, “The Station Commander at Gibraltar has misplaced his hat and the finger is pointing at your team.” (There was only me and Nip Betts.) Game up, resulting in a neatly packed hat and a letter of apology to the C.O. on the next aircraft to Gib (Thank you, Wg/Cmdr Lambert, for being a sport).
Whilst at Wildenrath 79 -82, I was I/C Off-Base Tasking (like UKMAMS but smaller, with bratwursts). Teams deployed would often come back with ‘collected’ brass signs (i.e. doctors, solicitors etc.). A certain P/Off Nameless returned with his team from a task with several signs. I took him aside and asked him to make himself available the next day as agents from INTERBOLS were coming to interview him and team about stolen property; a very worried young officer went off to the Mess. Unfortunately, the S/Ldr took pity on him and told him not to bother as INTERBOLS meant International Bureau of Lost Signs. It took him several days to speak to me again!
Derek
Subject: Purloined Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Tales of Vikings, Scrambled Egg and Bratwursts
Waaay back in the last century, a day trip to Sumburgh turned into a weathered-in night stop. Down we went to the bar to spend a jolly evening amongst the local folks. During the evening, I spied, way up on the wall, this beautiful Viking axe, "Aha said I, that should be ours," my Viking ancestry stirring. The opportunity for change of ownership arose when the nice barman closed up for the night leaving us drinks on the bar. After much giggling and climbing on each other, we retrieved ’our’ axe. Next morning, while fitting the axe into my hanging wardrobe, I realized that it was not the axe of high quality that I had seen through beer-enhanced eyes, but an inferior home-made thing. Nevertheless it hung in the UKMAMS Crew Room for many years.
A quick Sunday trip to somewhere in the Med resulted in a short stop at Gibraltar. Movements were closed so we ended up in the Visiting Aircraft Servicing Flight (VASF) facilities. We grabbed a coffee and hung about for an hour when I spotted this unemployed RAF Officer's hat; I thought this has UKMAMS Crew Room written all over it. So, I disappeared it! Monday morning comes and I get a call from Ops to come and see the Wingco asap. Great, I thought, a special mission for me, pat on the back, promotion! I grab the said hat and jumped in my car, and as I’m driving I noticed the hat had loads of scrambled egg on it, Ooops!
"Sit, Sgt Barron!" (soon to be LAC?) said the Wingco, “The Station Commander at Gibraltar has misplaced his hat and the finger is pointing at your team.” (There was only me and Nip Betts.) Game up, resulting in a neatly packed hat and a letter of apology to the C.O. on the next aircraft to Gib (Thank you, Wg/Cmdr Lambert, for being a sport).
Whilst at Wildenrath 79 -82, I was I/C Off-Base Tasking (like UKMAMS but smaller, with bratwursts). Teams deployed would often come back with ‘collected’ brass signs (i.e. doctors, solicitors etc.). A certain P/Off Nameless returned with his team from a task with several signs. I took him aside and asked him to make himself available the next day as agents from INTERBOLS were coming to interview him and team about stolen property; a very worried young officer went off to the Mess. Unfortunately, the S/Ldr took pity on him and told him not to bother as INTERBOLS meant International Bureau of Lost Signs. It took him several days to speak to me again!
Derek
For Australia, the best replacement for a C-130J is another C-130J
The Royal Australian Air Force decided to replace and reinforce its fleet of 12 C-130J Super Hercules medium transport aircraft, with nothing better than newer Super Hercules.
Under the AIR 7404 Phase 1 project, the Royal Australian Air Force is looking to replace and expand its current medium airlift fleet of 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, which it acquired in 1999. Australia would be looking to replace some of the older units and expand its fleet, potentially purchasing up to 30 new C-130Js from the factory.
The Australian Ministry of Defense contacted several aircraft manufacturers and received information on all available medium air mobility options. The relative merits of each aircraft type were assessed in relation to Australia's capabilities requirements.
Having learned from past mistakes (such as the Collins-class submarines or the ARH Tiger and MRH-90 Taipan helicopters), this time a low-risk, full-function certified, proven, mature and affordable replacement aircraft was sought to meet Australia's air mobility needs. The project principles have incorporated learned lessons from previous major defense acquisitions, as well as from the operational experience of the current combat-supplier C-130J fleet.
The Australian Ministry of Defence made the determination that new C-130J Super Hercules represents the only option that satisfies all the requirements outlined in the AIR 7404 Phase 1 project and secures Australia's medium air capability, without substantial in-inheritable cost, technological immaturity, capability and risk.
The Australian Ministry of Defence reported that the only option will be submitted for government approval under the AIR 7404 Phase 1 project in 2023 will be the purchase of a new batch of Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules.
aviacionline.com
Under the AIR 7404 Phase 1 project, the Royal Australian Air Force is looking to replace and expand its current medium airlift fleet of 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, which it acquired in 1999. Australia would be looking to replace some of the older units and expand its fleet, potentially purchasing up to 30 new C-130Js from the factory.
The Australian Ministry of Defense contacted several aircraft manufacturers and received information on all available medium air mobility options. The relative merits of each aircraft type were assessed in relation to Australia's capabilities requirements.
Having learned from past mistakes (such as the Collins-class submarines or the ARH Tiger and MRH-90 Taipan helicopters), this time a low-risk, full-function certified, proven, mature and affordable replacement aircraft was sought to meet Australia's air mobility needs. The project principles have incorporated learned lessons from previous major defense acquisitions, as well as from the operational experience of the current combat-supplier C-130J fleet.
The Australian Ministry of Defence made the determination that new C-130J Super Hercules represents the only option that satisfies all the requirements outlined in the AIR 7404 Phase 1 project and secures Australia's medium air capability, without substantial in-inheritable cost, technological immaturity, capability and risk.
The Australian Ministry of Defence reported that the only option will be submitted for government approval under the AIR 7404 Phase 1 project in 2023 will be the purchase of a new batch of Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules.
aviacionline.com
From: Andy Downard, Ballarat, VIC
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I had a look in my box of stuff and could have uploaded copies of the handbook they issued to us at Brize or various other load and tiedown plans, but I decided that the item shown in the picture should trigger some memories for the older cohort who would recognise the aircraft the item was from and why movers always carried the second item. As a clue to the identity, the aircraft's motto was “Around the world in 80 Delays!’
As a further clue to the aircraft’s identity, I’ve attached a PAX manifest for one of the last aircraft out of Muharraq, December 10, 1971 (in PCF configuration a few days before the final close-down). Most pax were movers. This aircraft went u/s in Muharraq and Akrotiri on the way home. Recognise any names; perhaps you were also on that flight?
Andy
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I had a look in my box of stuff and could have uploaded copies of the handbook they issued to us at Brize or various other load and tiedown plans, but I decided that the item shown in the picture should trigger some memories for the older cohort who would recognise the aircraft the item was from and why movers always carried the second item. As a clue to the identity, the aircraft's motto was “Around the world in 80 Delays!’
As a further clue to the aircraft’s identity, I’ve attached a PAX manifest for one of the last aircraft out of Muharraq, December 10, 1971 (in PCF configuration a few days before the final close-down). Most pax were movers. This aircraft went u/s in Muharraq and Akrotiri on the way home. Recognise any names; perhaps you were also on that flight?
Andy
(Click on image to see full size)
From: Donald Milburn, Swindon, Wilts
Subject: Memorabilia
Tony,
I have unusual pieces of memorabilia - sitting in a display cabinet next to my computer. They are ceramic penguins and were made by my wife Jan and the Lyneham Ceramic Club for an RAF Lyneham open day in, I think, 1987. These could be painted in any squadron or rank. Mine were, as you can see, for me as a Flt Sgt on UKMAMS. Happy days.
I have other items, including the print (by Bill Perring) of a Hercules flying past the Cherhill White Horse and a flying suit name badge. A most enjoyable time!
Subject: Memorabilia
Tony,
I have unusual pieces of memorabilia - sitting in a display cabinet next to my computer. They are ceramic penguins and were made by my wife Jan and the Lyneham Ceramic Club for an RAF Lyneham open day in, I think, 1987. These could be painted in any squadron or rank. Mine were, as you can see, for me as a Flt Sgt on UKMAMS. Happy days.
I have other items, including the print (by Bill Perring) of a Hercules flying past the Cherhill White Horse and a flying suit name badge. A most enjoyable time!
From: Steve Byatt, Marlborough, Wilts
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I transited Las Vegas as part of a UKMAMS team circa 1997, supporting Red Flag and remember watching the Treasure Island Pirate Show and visiting the Stratosphere. We were put up at the Holiday Inn, Casino Boardwalk, which was eventually flattened to make way for Aria / Cosmopolitan.
I’ve since been back so many times in corporate life it feels depressingly familiar. Many of the old hotels are being ripped down, Mirage being the latest.
I’ve since been back so many times in corporate life it feels depressingly familiar. Many of the old hotels are being ripped down, Mirage being the latest.
This time I’m staying at the Wynn (no kettle in the room!) overlooking Treasure Island and grandstand views of Trump hotel, eyes peeled for cyber trucks. So I guess this is living memorabilia- every year I say it’s my last visit… but here I am…
Exercise Red Flag 2025 Begins
Royal Air Force aviators have joined counterparts from the United States, Canada and Australia on Exercise Red Flag Nellis 25-1, considered one of the world’s toughest air combat training environments, to hone their war-fighting skills.
RAF personnel, including Rivet Joint aircrew from 51 Squadron, Air Operations Controllers from 19 Squadron and 20 Squadron, along with eight Typhoons and a Voyager aircraft are participating in the exercise, running 27th January to 14th February at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, United States.
Exercise Red Flag was established by United States Air Force in 1975, after the Vietnam War revealed the first 10 combat missions to be the most dangerous for aircrews. The first 10 missions of a modern air campaign are recreated in Red Flag to provide an invaluable experience for all participants.
Generations of RAF aviators have attended this exercise, and it continues to evolve and reflect the threats and challenges faced on modern operations. Missions are conducted to the nearby Nevada Test and Training Range, and further to the southwest of the United States where there is integration with maritime units. This year’s exercise involves approximately 3,000 personnel and up to 150 aircraft over 15 different locations, conducting large force employment missions in a range of scenarios.
raf.mod.uk
RAF personnel, including Rivet Joint aircrew from 51 Squadron, Air Operations Controllers from 19 Squadron and 20 Squadron, along with eight Typhoons and a Voyager aircraft are participating in the exercise, running 27th January to 14th February at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, United States.
Exercise Red Flag was established by United States Air Force in 1975, after the Vietnam War revealed the first 10 combat missions to be the most dangerous for aircrews. The first 10 missions of a modern air campaign are recreated in Red Flag to provide an invaluable experience for all participants.
Generations of RAF aviators have attended this exercise, and it continues to evolve and reflect the threats and challenges faced on modern operations. Missions are conducted to the nearby Nevada Test and Training Range, and further to the southwest of the United States where there is integration with maritime units. This year’s exercise involves approximately 3,000 personnel and up to 150 aircraft over 15 different locations, conducting large force employment missions in a range of scenarios.
raf.mod.uk
From: Gary Basterfield, Calgary, AB
Subject: RAF Movements Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I kept a file of old load sheets, movement school tests and handbook; it’s so far removed from the modern world of scroll and drop.
All the best from a cool Calgary
Gary Basterfield
1979-1991
Subject: RAF Movements Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I kept a file of old load sheets, movement school tests and handbook; it’s so far removed from the modern world of scroll and drop.
All the best from a cool Calgary
Gary Basterfield
1979-1991
From: John Furney, Dymock, Gloucestershire
Subject: Movement Courses
Hi Tony,
A few more nostalgic names still remembered perhaps by a few?
Subject: Movement Courses
Hi Tony,
A few more nostalgic names still remembered perhaps by a few?
No 5 Senior Air Movements Course RAF Abingdon December 1964 - February 1965
Back row: Sgt Benson, F/Sgt Barrett, Sgt Denolt, Sgt Dogitt, WO Buchanan, Sgt Revell, Sgt Meredith, Fg Off Day, Sgt Guthrie, Sgt Haywood
Front row: Plt Off Haines, Mr Kelly (Malta Movs), Plt Off Furney, Sgt Levy (DS), Flt Lt Rowe (DS), Fg Off Stones, Plt Off Todd, Plt Off Weaver
And of course the beloved Beverley!
Back row: Sgt Benson, F/Sgt Barrett, Sgt Denolt, Sgt Dogitt, WO Buchanan, Sgt Revell, Sgt Meredith, Fg Off Day, Sgt Guthrie, Sgt Haywood
Front row: Plt Off Haines, Mr Kelly (Malta Movs), Plt Off Furney, Sgt Levy (DS), Flt Lt Rowe (DS), Fg Off Stones, Plt Off Todd, Plt Off Weaver
And of course the beloved Beverley!
Thanks for all your good work over the past year which I am sure has been responsible for rekindling memories, renewing friendships, stimulated discussion and helped to keep the association alive and involved.
John
John
From: Norman Stamper, Torrevieja
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Just going through our attic trying to find where all our memorabilia is stashed away and came across the attached - LIONESS - a News Sheet for those families who were with us in Cyprus during the Turkish invasion and their subsequent evacuation in August 1974. Photos of other items that have been gathering dust for the past 20-50 years or so are also attached.
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Just going through our attic trying to find where all our memorabilia is stashed away and came across the attached - LIONESS - a News Sheet for those families who were with us in Cyprus during the Turkish invasion and their subsequent evacuation in August 1974. Photos of other items that have been gathering dust for the past 20-50 years or so are also attached.
Lioness Page 1
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Lioness Page 2
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Lioness Page 3
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Lioness Page 4
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Lioness Page 5
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Lioness Page 6
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Lioness Page 7
(Click for full size)
(Click for full size)
Plaque for G Flt 305 Entry 1966
This was designed between the flight members
This was designed between the flight members
Cap Badges and button stick issued 1966 Hereford. Two cap badges were issued, one was kept clear for use with your SD hat and the other was smoothed down with Brasso on the back of your bedside mat and then flattened and worn on your beret.
RAF Gan (Maldive Islands) Tankard 1969 - 70
Plaque from RAF Aldergrove
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)
RAF Aldergrove Farewell gift early 1980
Aldergrove farewell gift
Wildenrath Tankard. 1985 / 88.
Poshest tankard so far
Poshest tankard so far
The inscriptions on the lid:
AUF WIDERSEHEN NORMAN 30 Sep 85-7 Aug 88
Bottom: Movements Squadron - Move in Strength
Centre: Two crossed tensioners.
AUF WIDERSEHEN NORMAN 30 Sep 85-7 Aug 88
Bottom: Movements Squadron - Move in Strength
Centre: Two crossed tensioners.
Wildenrarth 10th Anniversary Bash in the FDC Bar
Standing: Trevor (Ozzie) Oswald, Paul (Dava) Winburg, Rod Morgan, Norman Stamper
Kneeling: Sean (Swinders) Jenkin, Colin Jehan, Garry Richards
Standing: Trevor (Ozzie) Oswald, Paul (Dava) Winburg, Rod Morgan, Norman Stamper
Kneeling: Sean (Swinders) Jenkin, Colin Jehan, Garry Richards
Wildenrath 10th Anniversary bash
Mark 'Turk' Bird - main support man!
Mark 'Turk' Bird - main support man!
Wildenrath closing down bash. What a few days that was. Bus pick up started at Lyneham then Brize Norton, with Harry Sutcliffe and myself boarding at a pub in Stockenchurch near where we lived and worked at HQSTC, followed by a couple more pickups along the M25 before heading off to Dover then overnight to Wildenrath arriving in time for breakfast and meeting up with other movers before the celebrations began.
Badges warn on flying suits / overalls
Farewell gift at my top table do at the WO & Sgts Mess at High Wycombe.
"FS Norman Stamper - Royal Air Force - Jan 1966 to Jun 2004"
"FS Norman Stamper - Royal Air Force - Jan 1966 to Jun 2004"
From: Neil Middleton, Ipswich, Suffolk
Subject: Memorabilia
Good morning Tony,
Please find attached photo from NEAF MAMS Crew room showing some of the memorabilia we acquired.
Subject: Memorabilia
Good morning Tony,
Please find attached photo from NEAF MAMS Crew room showing some of the memorabilia we acquired.
NEAF MAMS Crew Room - Pete, Colin, Neil, John, Pete and Frank
A bonus photo from somewhere down route.
Andy, Pat, Dougie and Neil
Andy, Pat, Dougie and Neil
From: Ron Turley, Davao
Subject: Old Stuff
Tony,
I recently had a fit of tidiness and went through my ancient 40 odd year old Samsonite briefcase and found:
1. Personal Medical Record with multiple Cholera and Yellow Fever vaccination certificates dating back to August 1978 as well as Hep A and B from a little later
2. A Range Firing Certificate for SMG and 9mm from April 1982
3. An RAF Lyneham Operational Defence Aide Memoire.
4. UK MAMS Competency Record which shows competency to operate, various AC doors and 60KVA generator, 10K FLT and 25K Condec these going back to 1977. The Condec certificate was signed off by WO Jim Carey in the days when it was classified as ACHE. When the powers that be decided that this was no longer the case and the Condec became a piece of MT I was Training Officer on UK MAMS and we had the unusual task of training up MT drivers to operate the beast and to certify them as competent. Not all achieved the standard! And so, the RAF, proving that inflexibility was indeed the key to Air Power, insisted that MT drivers be deployed wherever a Condec went!
All the best and keep up the good work!
Ron
Subject: Old Stuff
Tony,
I recently had a fit of tidiness and went through my ancient 40 odd year old Samsonite briefcase and found:
1. Personal Medical Record with multiple Cholera and Yellow Fever vaccination certificates dating back to August 1978 as well as Hep A and B from a little later
2. A Range Firing Certificate for SMG and 9mm from April 1982
3. An RAF Lyneham Operational Defence Aide Memoire.
4. UK MAMS Competency Record which shows competency to operate, various AC doors and 60KVA generator, 10K FLT and 25K Condec these going back to 1977. The Condec certificate was signed off by WO Jim Carey in the days when it was classified as ACHE. When the powers that be decided that this was no longer the case and the Condec became a piece of MT I was Training Officer on UK MAMS and we had the unusual task of training up MT drivers to operate the beast and to certify them as competent. Not all achieved the standard! And so, the RAF, proving that inflexibility was indeed the key to Air Power, insisted that MT drivers be deployed wherever a Condec went!
All the best and keep up the good work!
Ron
From: Gordon Black, Swindon, Wilts
Subject: Memorabilia
Tony,
Haven’t kept that much memorabilia but have got my flying log book while serving on NEAF MAMS, 1st entry May 1972 last Jan 1975. Also a Nav Bag. In the loft is a full set of flying clothes; flying suit complete with UKMAMS badge, flying jacket and boots. For years I had an aircrew watch but that eventually broke.
Cheers
Gordon
Subject: Memorabilia
Tony,
Haven’t kept that much memorabilia but have got my flying log book while serving on NEAF MAMS, 1st entry May 1972 last Jan 1975. Also a Nav Bag. In the loft is a full set of flying clothes; flying suit complete with UKMAMS badge, flying jacket and boots. For years I had an aircrew watch but that eventually broke.
Cheers
Gordon
Bus Stop in New York - In 1968, I was detached from UKMAMS to bolster the RAF Movements Detachment, then at JFK New York, pending the arrival of the second movements officer, as it settled into its increased task following switching from sea passages from UK to VC10s for Service and MoD Civil personnel and their families posted or detached to North America. Later this operation would switch to Washington Dulles International. Previously in the UK Delegation to the UN building in Manhattan, the office had now moved to a block of mainly lawyers with an excellent view of the Queens District Supreme Court. Also, it was now just a short bus ride to the airport. At JFK we could usually be found in the BOAC complex in the International Terminal. To help maximise the effectiveness of my Rate 1 travel allowance for meals and accommodation, I had moved myself to a small and cheap Italian run hotel a short walk from the Office.
In 1988, now at HQSTC, High Wycombe, I had my second staff visit to the RAF Stanley Supply team, which included a free day on the Sunday. When asked what I would like to do, having already done the usual Penguin walks etc., I asked if I could borrow a Landrover to go off and do some train spotting, which raised some eyebrows, but never argue with the expert from Command HQ, especially during a Pre-AOC’s inspection! I duly trundled across to Moody Brook to walk the route of the Camber Railway, to give it its official title. It was one of those very occasional days in the Falklands, sun shining, blue sky and a gentle breeze. It was easy to follow the track bed, and I soon found some badly rusted wagon underframes and lengths of half buried track. The line has been built with flat bottom rail directly attached to wooden sleepers with 5" spikes as used on most 24" narrow gauge lines at that time. It was one of these that I picked up and brought home as a happy memory of the Falklands and a great day’s train spotting!
All the best to you and yours, stay safe, stay warm
David Powell
F Team UKMAMS 1987-89 RAF Abingdon
All the best to you and yours, stay safe, stay warm
David Powell
F Team UKMAMS 1987-89 RAF Abingdon
From: David Powell, Princes Risborough, Bucks
Subject: Souvenirs
Hi Tony,
Two offerings for your collection on memorabilia:
Subject: Souvenirs
Hi Tony,
Two offerings for your collection on memorabilia:
This is how I came to be walking back to my accommodation when I came across this 1960’s American Bus Stop sign, with no obvious indications of where it may have fallen from. I therefor exercised my civic duty to keep America clean, and took it back to the hotel. In due course, the sign came back with me to RAF Abingdon and I have had it ever since. One day I might think of something to do with it.
Train Spotting in the Falklands - My next offering dates from around 1915 but I only rescued it from rusting oblivion in the Falklands in November 1988. In 1915, a new radio transmitter had been installed at a site overlooking Moody Brook. This consumed a huge amount of electrical power from its own power station. Its boilers were fired by coal. This had to be conveyed some 3½ miles from the Camber Depot at Navy Point. This had meant constructing a 2ft (610mm) narrow gauge line, the Camber Railway, with trains hauled by a couple of Kerr Stuart “Wren” class 0-4-0T steam locomotives. However, rapid developments in radio soon made the huge transmitters redundant. The railway fell into disuse in the late 1920s.
Train Spotting in the Falklands - My next offering dates from around 1915 but I only rescued it from rusting oblivion in the Falklands in November 1988. In 1915, a new radio transmitter had been installed at a site overlooking Moody Brook. This consumed a huge amount of electrical power from its own power station. Its boilers were fired by coal. This had to be conveyed some 3½ miles from the Camber Depot at Navy Point. This had meant constructing a 2ft (610mm) narrow gauge line, the Camber Railway, with trains hauled by a couple of Kerr Stuart “Wren” class 0-4-0T steam locomotives. However, rapid developments in radio soon made the huge transmitters redundant. The railway fell into disuse in the late 1920s.
From: Gordon Gray, Powick, Worcs
Subject: More blasts from the past
Tony,
Attached memories from down route:
Subject: More blasts from the past
Tony,
Attached memories from down route:
In front of Herc 204 at Dakar 3/4 May '82 en route to Ascension. Hotel Team, Tony Searle, Mac McDermott, Chris Thistle.
English Bay Field Mess, Ascension, either May or September '82. Sat, Pete Biggs?, Steve Croston and Tony Searle standing.
In front of Kenya Airways DC-9 tail at Nairobi. Scouse Leman, Cpl Haines (MAMS Eng), ? Skelton, John Buchanan, Chris Thistle, Gray. (Ex Larch Pole / Strident Call. VC10-Palermo/ Nairobi 19-23 Jan'83)
Rear of Vulcan on Ascension 'Hotel' team, outside Nose Hangar... Gray, Mac McDermott, Chis Thistle, Tony Searle, forget chap extreme right and mislaid our Team Brief identifying (someone might remind me?)
Finally, that's Chris Thistle with me on a Suffield Rotation at Calgary sat on the bonnet of the RAFLO's car we borrowed on a trip to Lake Louise July '82. That was a 14-day stint for A/C handling with a weekend break when Chris and I were taken by my wife's cousin and husband who lived in Calgary, to a Ranch (Richardson?) camping and horse riding. Us two 'billeted' Delta Hotel, Bow Valley; managed a seat at the Calgary stampede. I learned a great deal from Chris in my early Mobile days!
From: Colin Eyre, Bridgend, Glamorgan
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I also have a shoebox with not a lot in it. I do however have a programme for RAF Abingdon open day which was held on the 14th June 1968. This was when the Queen visited to mark the 50th anniversary of the formation. That was quite a good day.
Then I have a programme for UKMAMS AT HOME day. Can’t remember the date [1971] only that I was hoping to impress my wife on that day that when away from home it wasn’t all gourmet meals and first class hotels. She was not convinced.
I also have a copy of The Haight Ashbury Maverick which was a hippy newspaper that I picked up in San Francisco at the time when flower power was all the rage.
The map I have of Nairobi National Park brings back memories of the wild life we saw whilst there. Lastly I have a Belfast trim sheet that is a real nostalgia trip.
Rgds
Colin
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I also have a shoebox with not a lot in it. I do however have a programme for RAF Abingdon open day which was held on the 14th June 1968. This was when the Queen visited to mark the 50th anniversary of the formation. That was quite a good day.
Then I have a programme for UKMAMS AT HOME day. Can’t remember the date [1971] only that I was hoping to impress my wife on that day that when away from home it wasn’t all gourmet meals and first class hotels. She was not convinced.
I also have a copy of The Haight Ashbury Maverick which was a hippy newspaper that I picked up in San Francisco at the time when flower power was all the rage.
The map I have of Nairobi National Park brings back memories of the wild life we saw whilst there. Lastly I have a Belfast trim sheet that is a real nostalgia trip.
Rgds
Colin
From: Steve Tomlinson, Tenerife, QLD
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Just a few of the items I have dotted around the place that do bring back fond memories.
Firstly the hammer, presented to me by the Avionics Bay at RAF St Mawgan before I headed off to RAFC Cranwell and greater things! The story starts back in 77, I was the last Air Radar J/T's to complete the 2nd line course for the Central Tactical Computing System (TACNAV) on the Nimrod MR1! The story behind the rushed course was that the last man in the RAF, with the Q-annotation for the equipment, was being demobbed from RAF Kinloss in 10 days! Frantically, so not to lose ALL the expertise on this vital equipment, a Chief Tech. was selected from Nimrod Line Sqn, then locked in a room with the, soon-to-be-demobbed Chief, for 7 days, and the departing Chief told to "teach him all you know about the equipment"! Typically, the RAF then turned it into a 4½ month course!
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
Just a few of the items I have dotted around the place that do bring back fond memories.
Firstly the hammer, presented to me by the Avionics Bay at RAF St Mawgan before I headed off to RAFC Cranwell and greater things! The story starts back in 77, I was the last Air Radar J/T's to complete the 2nd line course for the Central Tactical Computing System (TACNAV) on the Nimrod MR1! The story behind the rushed course was that the last man in the RAF, with the Q-annotation for the equipment, was being demobbed from RAF Kinloss in 10 days! Frantically, so not to lose ALL the expertise on this vital equipment, a Chief Tech. was selected from Nimrod Line Sqn, then locked in a room with the, soon-to-be-demobbed Chief, for 7 days, and the departing Chief told to "teach him all you know about the equipment"! Typically, the RAF then turned it into a 4½ month course!
Suitably awarded the Q-AN-AR3 annotation, following said course in sunny Scotland, I was posted back to St Mawgan, but this time to the Avionics Bay, and not Nimrod Line! Rather than go through all the procedures set down in the servicing manuals, it was a lot quicker to whip the "can" off the computer then gently tap the circuit boards with a hide-faced hammer until the red light went out! 90% of the time the problem was a dirty edge connector and, once that had been cleaned, and the fault fixed, then you could put the gear through the extensively gazetted functional checks before signing it up as serviceable. One day my boss caught me gently tapping the boards and "tore-a-strip-off-me! I don't think it helped my case when I told him, in my defence, that I was a qualified technician, so I knew exactly where to hit it, and how hard! At which point he went ballistic while everyone in the vicinity fell about, wetting themselves. Funnily enough, I got promoted to corporal the following week so it didn't harm my prospects. I eventually left avionics for good in 1980, everyone remembered the incident, hence, the small hammer on my departure!
Second object, the large Ball Bearing and the Paxolin Spacer which came from a Type 85 Radar Head turntable.
It reminds me of my time as OC Supply at RAF Boulmer, yes, I had to look it up on a map myself when I was posted there! I thought the known world ended at Newcastle, but Boulmer was another 40 miles up the A1, near Alnwick! From the map it looked like it was miles from any civilization, however, I had a ball, really beautiful Northumberland countryside, great beaches & wildlife, lots of castles and plenty of history, good "northern" beer and a fantastic Mess life.
Newcastle was 1 hours drive South and Edinburgh was 1 hour drive North.
It reminds me of my time as OC Supply at RAF Boulmer, yes, I had to look it up on a map myself when I was posted there! I thought the known world ended at Newcastle, but Boulmer was another 40 miles up the A1, near Alnwick! From the map it looked like it was miles from any civilization, however, I had a ball, really beautiful Northumberland countryside, great beaches & wildlife, lots of castles and plenty of history, good "northern" beer and a fantastic Mess life.
Newcastle was 1 hours drive South and Edinburgh was 1 hour drive North.
It was a busy Supply Flight, not only the usual technical problems associated with supplying kit for a major UKADGE radar station but we also had 2 x SAR Sea Kings (A Flt, 202 Sqn). Whenever they planned any exercises with the Lake District Mountain Rescue guys, I used hitch to go hill walking, but with the proviso that I also checked the quality of our fuel caches that we had prepositioned over there at Whitehaven Hospital and Keswick. It always made me laugh whenever I walked into the Ops building, there would be a room full of seasoned air traffic controllers (Border Radar) trying to keep aircraft apart, then wander into the next room which was full of youthful Fighter Controllers, frantically trying to get aircraft together (on intercepts!). FYI I had a great mentor, in Ian Envis, who was at RAF Buchan, the next radar station, up the coast.
My third item is a souvenir from Port Stanley, when I took over from Peter Heap at the Air Movs Flt, it spent 4 months propping-open my office door. It appears to be a small lump (9kg) off a 1000lb bomb, dropped on the airfield during the conflict, Harrier or Vulcan, I don't know? It was a little more novel, as a souvenir, than the usual 105mm Shell cases and fluffy toy penguins everybody seemed to be taking home.
Lastly, a set of glasses that were specially engraved for the opening of Mount Pleasant. I think the whole Movements Flight scored a set of these at the time, it was May 85, I had been sent back down to the Falklands (at my own request, plans within plans!!) the previous month to set-up Interim Operations for wide body aircraft (BA B747 & RAF L1011 Tristar) at Mount Pleasant. It was even more fun than Stanley, one 9000ft runway and a building site with 3500 civilian workers! The "route prover" the first aircraft to land there, was an RAF Tristar stacked full of dudes from MoD & Strike who just wanted the Falklands "tick-in-the-box", I think Gil O'Toole was the first guy I met at the aircraft door! Then we had the VIP aircraft, with everybody that was anybody on board, on 12 MAY 85, to officially "open" the airfield with Prince Andrew in attendance (he was in HMS Brazen at the time as their helicopter pilot), on behalf of HRH the Queen. Enjoyable times, lots of well laid plans that "didn't survive first contact with the enemy", having to think on ones feet & outside the proverbial box and to end it all, a really great wind-down "Beach Party" (another story) for the troops & others, arranged by Dave Quantick (Air Traffic) & yours truly, for the day after the VIP's departed. A lot of input from the local Civi workforce and a few movers around the Globe, not to mention the unsung hero's at BZN, the other end of the Route.
420th ABS Air Transportation Team Elevates Mission Readiness
Royal Air Force Fairford or more simply RAF Fairford is a Royal Air Force station in Gloucestershire, United Kingdom. While being an RAF station, Fairford hosts United States Air Force personnel. Since 2019, the base has played host to a Lockheed U-2S Dragon Lady detachment from the 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron. It is the USAF's only European airfield for heavy bombers and routinely supports Bomber Task Force operations. (Wikipedia)
RAF FAIRFORD, England - At their core, Air Transportation Specialists are responsible for securely managing cargo and passengers. They ensure that everything and everyone on a military aircraft is transported safely and quickly. From food and medical supplies to helicopters and ground vehicles, they get valuable assets where they need to be.
The 501st Combat Support Wing (CSW) and 420th Air Base Squadron (ABS) currently do not have billets for Air Transportation (2T2X1) personnel. However, with the help of the Military Personnel Appropriation (MPA) Man-Day Program the 420th ABS Logistics Readiness Flight secured four highly skilled members from the Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard. “We’re all coming with the same qualifications so we’re all filling the same roles,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Lazerus Wooten, 420th ABS air operations chief. “Those roles include Joint Inspect (JI) of any cargo and the redeployment of Bomber Task Force (BTF) and 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron (ERS).”
Previously when 2T2X1 support was needed the method was to secure an Air Trans team through a higher headquarters request via Temporary Duty Assignments. “These were ‘just in time’ solutions to airlift requirements,” said Mr. Joseph W. Browning, 420th ABS Logistics Readiness Flight chief. “The folks we have now are stationed here for the next year and provide better continuity of operations.”
The MPA Man-Day Program allows Guard and Reserve members to support an active-duty mission. Each tour lasts 365 days, but with approved funding can be extended one year at time with a maximum of three years per member. “Being here allows the wing to support Bomber Task Forces (BTF), Agile Combat Employment (ACE) exercises, the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), and any forward deployments of the 99th ERS without having to contact USAFE to source personnel like they have in the past,” said Wooten. “The team is made up of two MSgts and two TSgts with 14 deployments between us which brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience.”
Since the team arrived, they aided in the success of BTF 25-1 which included operations with four U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress's, processing 200 deployed members and a joint inspection of 206,445 lbs. of cargo. Future projects include upgrading equipment. “We are currently in contract to purchase a set of highline docks to streamline our process of inspecting, uploading, and downloading multi-pallet trains,” said Wooten. “It’s been wonderful having them here,” said Browning. “We have a very experienced team who allow us to build consistency in supporting airlift operations. Previously, we would get different Air Trans teams from USAFE & AMC for short-duration missions. Now we have a team that will grow here, develop long-term processes and enable organizational learning.”
The utilization of the MPA Man-Day Program and the support of four highly skilled Air Trans members continues to solidify RAF Fairford as Europe’s premiere forward bomber base and the 501st as the go-to unit for European theater BTF support.
501csw.usafe.af.mil
The 501st Combat Support Wing (CSW) and 420th Air Base Squadron (ABS) currently do not have billets for Air Transportation (2T2X1) personnel. However, with the help of the Military Personnel Appropriation (MPA) Man-Day Program the 420th ABS Logistics Readiness Flight secured four highly skilled members from the Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard. “We’re all coming with the same qualifications so we’re all filling the same roles,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Lazerus Wooten, 420th ABS air operations chief. “Those roles include Joint Inspect (JI) of any cargo and the redeployment of Bomber Task Force (BTF) and 99th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron (ERS).”
Previously when 2T2X1 support was needed the method was to secure an Air Trans team through a higher headquarters request via Temporary Duty Assignments. “These were ‘just in time’ solutions to airlift requirements,” said Mr. Joseph W. Browning, 420th ABS Logistics Readiness Flight chief. “The folks we have now are stationed here for the next year and provide better continuity of operations.”
The MPA Man-Day Program allows Guard and Reserve members to support an active-duty mission. Each tour lasts 365 days, but with approved funding can be extended one year at time with a maximum of three years per member. “Being here allows the wing to support Bomber Task Forces (BTF), Agile Combat Employment (ACE) exercises, the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), and any forward deployments of the 99th ERS without having to contact USAFE to source personnel like they have in the past,” said Wooten. “The team is made up of two MSgts and two TSgts with 14 deployments between us which brings a vast amount of knowledge and experience.”
Since the team arrived, they aided in the success of BTF 25-1 which included operations with four U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress's, processing 200 deployed members and a joint inspection of 206,445 lbs. of cargo. Future projects include upgrading equipment. “We are currently in contract to purchase a set of highline docks to streamline our process of inspecting, uploading, and downloading multi-pallet trains,” said Wooten. “It’s been wonderful having them here,” said Browning. “We have a very experienced team who allow us to build consistency in supporting airlift operations. Previously, we would get different Air Trans teams from USAFE & AMC for short-duration missions. Now we have a team that will grow here, develop long-term processes and enable organizational learning.”
The utilization of the MPA Man-Day Program and the support of four highly skilled Air Trans members continues to solidify RAF Fairford as Europe’s premiere forward bomber base and the 501st as the go-to unit for European theater BTF support.
501csw.usafe.af.mil
From: Ian Berry, Eastleaze, Swindon, Wilts
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I've collected a few mementos in my time and unless hidden, my wife finds them and throws them out...
In 1982 I did a trip to Hong Kong and night stopped in Kathmandu both ways. I picked up a pair of "working" Kukris, not in immaculate condition, but real life working models. The intention was to get them mounted but they are still stowed away in the attic. With all the panic of knife crime in UK and different people's attitudes, that is probably where they will remain. Too sentimental to throw out but too cautious to bring out!
I recall doing one task with Echo Team in the early '70s where, whilst under the influence of wobbly pop, I/we purloined a painting from an hotel and even got it back to the UK in a Hercules. However, on arrival at Lyneham, guilt and fear took over and the painting was abandoned in the aircraft. Wind the clock forward some 25 years and whilst DAMO at Lyneham, on clearing an arrived Hercules, I discovered behind the "para seats" an abandoned 24" x 18" picture made of papyrus. I knew exactly what had happened... the picture now hangs on my living room wall!
Subject: Memorabilia
Hi Tony,
I've collected a few mementos in my time and unless hidden, my wife finds them and throws them out...
In 1982 I did a trip to Hong Kong and night stopped in Kathmandu both ways. I picked up a pair of "working" Kukris, not in immaculate condition, but real life working models. The intention was to get them mounted but they are still stowed away in the attic. With all the panic of knife crime in UK and different people's attitudes, that is probably where they will remain. Too sentimental to throw out but too cautious to bring out!
I recall doing one task with Echo Team in the early '70s where, whilst under the influence of wobbly pop, I/we purloined a painting from an hotel and even got it back to the UK in a Hercules. However, on arrival at Lyneham, guilt and fear took over and the painting was abandoned in the aircraft. Wind the clock forward some 25 years and whilst DAMO at Lyneham, on clearing an arrived Hercules, I discovered behind the "para seats" an abandoned 24" x 18" picture made of papyrus. I knew exactly what had happened... the picture now hangs on my living room wall!
From: Richard Bass, Nottingham
Subject: Op Granby
Hi Tony,
I have a one off 10-minute video with some well-known Supply and Movements faces taken at RAF Wittering, homemade in August 1990, loading a VC-10 during Op Granby that you may be able to incorporate in one of your future issues.
Kindest Regards
Rich Bass
Ed: Unfortunately, the raw video wasn't suitable for inclusion... but, I have taken some screenshots of the highlights and made up a slide show. If anyone would like to obtain the original video drop me an e-mail and I will send it to you (295 MB): ukmamsoba@gmail.com
Subject: Op Granby
Hi Tony,
I have a one off 10-minute video with some well-known Supply and Movements faces taken at RAF Wittering, homemade in August 1990, loading a VC-10 during Op Granby that you may be able to incorporate in one of your future issues.
Kindest Regards
Rich Bass
Ed: Unfortunately, the raw video wasn't suitable for inclusion... but, I have taken some screenshots of the highlights and made up a slide show. If anyone would like to obtain the original video drop me an e-mail and I will send it to you (295 MB): ukmamsoba@gmail.com
To see a comprehensive article on Operation Granby, click on the image below:
A new member joining us recently is:
Nigel Rosier, Weston Turville, Bucks
Welcome to the OBA!
From: Phil Overson, Broad Hinton, Wilts
Subject: RE: UKMAMS OBA OBB #123124
Dear Tony,
Thank you for compiling the packed bumper Christmas edition of the OBA newsletter.
I’m honoured that you featured my article on Keith Parker’s and my pilchards and whiskey Christmas lunch – an everlasting memory of an unforgettable day with a wonderful man and SNCO who I miss dearly.
Secondly, I was shocked and saddened to see this issue dedicated to the memory of Ingrid Trautrim of the Canadian Air Force. You might remember that I saw her name in a previous issue and remembered her from our time together in Zagreb, Croatia back in ’92. You kindly put us back in touch together and we shared memories via email from a difficult but very rewarding detachment where we worked and socialised so well together. Ingrid was the most beautiful and talented Mover, always with a beaming smile and friendly nature and she was the most skillful rough terrain forklift driver I ever came across! Would it be possible and respectful to tell me how she passed at such a young age? Although we’ve not met for thirty-two years seeing her name in the obituary was very upsetting. I sincerely hope that she’s missed and fondly remembered by her CAF colleagues and those across the pond alike.
Wishing you a happy and healthy 2025 Tony. Thank you for all your amazing work keeping us all together, an amazing feat with us scattered all across the world.
Yours sincerely,
Phil Overson
Subject: RE: UKMAMS OBA OBB #123124
Dear Tony,
Thank you for compiling the packed bumper Christmas edition of the OBA newsletter.
I’m honoured that you featured my article on Keith Parker’s and my pilchards and whiskey Christmas lunch – an everlasting memory of an unforgettable day with a wonderful man and SNCO who I miss dearly.
Secondly, I was shocked and saddened to see this issue dedicated to the memory of Ingrid Trautrim of the Canadian Air Force. You might remember that I saw her name in a previous issue and remembered her from our time together in Zagreb, Croatia back in ’92. You kindly put us back in touch together and we shared memories via email from a difficult but very rewarding detachment where we worked and socialised so well together. Ingrid was the most beautiful and talented Mover, always with a beaming smile and friendly nature and she was the most skillful rough terrain forklift driver I ever came across! Would it be possible and respectful to tell me how she passed at such a young age? Although we’ve not met for thirty-two years seeing her name in the obituary was very upsetting. I sincerely hope that she’s missed and fondly remembered by her CAF colleagues and those across the pond alike.
Wishing you a happy and healthy 2025 Tony. Thank you for all your amazing work keeping us all together, an amazing feat with us scattered all across the world.
Yours sincerely,
Phil Overson
From: Tony Gale, Gatineau, QC
To Phil Overson,
Subject: Ingrid...
Hi Phil,
To Phil Overson,
Subject: Ingrid...
Hi Phil,
From: Phil Overson, Broad Hinton, Wilts
Dear Tony,
Thanks for that info regarding Ingrid’s passing. I’m a little shocked, she was such a fun person and as you say taken far too soon. Thank you for the link to her obituary. I’ve added an entry to her guest book to let her family know how well thought of she was across the pond. I’ve found a few old photos from our Zagreb ‘92 detachment and will add my favourite.
I’ll be raising a glass to her memory and remembering good times in the snow with her and Glen Falardeau, what a great team. Thanks for keeping us all in touch with each other - a thankless but much admired task.
With very best wishes for 2025 and beyond.
Phil
Dear Tony,
Thanks for that info regarding Ingrid’s passing. I’m a little shocked, she was such a fun person and as you say taken far too soon. Thank you for the link to her obituary. I’ve added an entry to her guest book to let her family know how well thought of she was across the pond. I’ve found a few old photos from our Zagreb ‘92 detachment and will add my favourite.
I’ll be raising a glass to her memory and remembering good times in the snow with her and Glen Falardeau, what a great team. Thanks for keeping us all in touch with each other - a thankless but much admired task.
With very best wishes for 2025 and beyond.
Phil
Ingrid – it was a shocker. She was living in Pembroke, some 146 Km from where I am living in Gatineau – and I meant to go and visit with her someday – but that never happened. She died of cancer on December 8th.
Her obituary is here: https://www.mdbfuneralhome.com/obituaries/ingrid-trautrim Scroll down the page to the Guest Book for some wonderful memories from relatives and friends.
She left us at far too young an age.
Her obituary is here: https://www.mdbfuneralhome.com/obituaries/ingrid-trautrim Scroll down the page to the Guest Book for some wonderful memories from relatives and friends.
She left us at far too young an age.
An Homage to Charlie Marlow (RAF)
Duncan Grant, Edinburgh
That is a b****r Tony. Charlie was on the staff when I was OC The School. He was an exuberant yet professional character who made the most of life-particularly over the last 10 years. God Speed and RIP Charlie. Duncan.
That is a b****r Tony. Charlie was on the staff when I was OC The School. He was an exuberant yet professional character who made the most of life-particularly over the last 10 years. God Speed and RIP Charlie. Duncan.
Colin Waitt, Herndon, VA
Quite a loss and a shock. Appreciated that you forwarded his arrangements. Kind Regards, Colin.
Quite a loss and a shock. Appreciated that you forwarded his arrangements. Kind Regards, Colin.
Jerry Edwards, Cwmbran, Mon
That is so sad to hear. I only met him a few times but my memories are that he was a really lovely guy. RIP Charlie. Sleep well mate.
That is so sad to hear. I only met him a few times but my memories are that he was a really lovely guy. RIP Charlie. Sleep well mate.
Ian Envis, Rustington, West Sussex
Another iconic Mover now in God's Waiting Room.
Another iconic Mover now in God's Waiting Room.
Joseph Gallant, Trenton, ON
My condolences to his family and friends. RIP Charlie. Joe
My condolences to his family and friends. RIP Charlie. Joe
Allan and Kay Mitchley, Rhyl, Denbighshire
We knew Charlie both from his days as a mover and after he left the RAF. He was a credit to the trade and will be missed by all who knew him . He was a partner at an estate agents in Carterton many years ago; it was called Taylor, Marlow and Wells. We would often call in for a chat and he always had a smile. RIP Charlie. Allan and Kay.
We knew Charlie both from his days as a mover and after he left the RAF. He was a credit to the trade and will be missed by all who knew him . He was a partner at an estate agents in Carterton many years ago; it was called Taylor, Marlow and Wells. We would often call in for a chat and he always had a smile. RIP Charlie. Allan and Kay.
Brian Gibson, Kakopetria
So sad to hear of Charlie's passing; a wonderful and genuine friend that I had the pleasure of working with in the past. I enjoyed his company for an afternoon in the summer 2023 when we met up while he was on holiday in Paphos. We regularly called each other through Messenger and I was only chatting with him three weeks ago [early November 2024] and he was fine, in fact he was looking forward to meeting up with his daughter in Portsmouth.
So sad to hear of Charlie's passing; a wonderful and genuine friend that I had the pleasure of working with in the past. I enjoyed his company for an afternoon in the summer 2023 when we met up while he was on holiday in Paphos. We regularly called each other through Messenger and I was only chatting with him three weeks ago [early November 2024] and he was fine, in fact he was looking forward to meeting up with his daughter in Portsmouth.
Paphos, Cyprus - Summer of 2023
Brian Basting, Brian Gibson, Charlie Marlow and Brian Spademan
Brian Basting, Brian Gibson, Charlie Marlow and Brian Spademan
This Newsletter is Dedicated
to the Memories of:
Boyd Gilby (RCAF)
Pete Francis (RCAF)
to the Memories of:
Boyd Gilby (RCAF)
Pete Francis (RCAF)
Tony Gale
ukmamsoba@gmail.com
ukmamsoba@gmail.com
