The most numerous VIP visitors to Turnhouse, by far, were HRH The Princess Royal (as President of the Scottish Rugby Union and patron to a host of other Scottish based Institutions and charities) and the Rt Hon. Malcolm Rifkind who was the Secretary of State for Defence at the time (and had his Constituency in Edinburgh). On one now memorable weekend we had a 'close call' that involved these two regulars directly or indirectly. It was a home game for Scotland during the annual Six Nations rugby tournament and on the Friday we received the regular tasking signal from Group outlining a movement for the Saturday evening at around the time that the game would be nearing an end. On the majority of occasions the signal would include details of the VIP and party (if applicable); on this occasion it did not but this did happen from time to time usually citing security requirements. The jet arrived, as normal, around lunchtime on the Saturday and the crew retired to the Officers Mess, a five minute walk from the pan, to watch the Rugby Game (this had become a regular routine for 32 Sqn and my Office for a number of years where Princess Anne was in attendance).
The Princess was not on board so we all assumed it was an outbound task only. Sandy (My Ops Clerk) and I watched the game on the TV in the Ops Office (from where we could see the Main Gate) and noticed that Princess Anne was, indeed, at the game. All is well, we thought. The crew will saunter down just before the final whistle so that they are ready to go as soon as HRH arrives from Murrayfield with her police escort some ten minutes later. Roughly halfway through the second half, we noticed a rather smart black Jaguar arrive at the front gates of the camp; Since we had no permanent Guard stationed at the gates over the weekends, normal procedure was for the duty staff to man the gates from roughly ten minutes before aircraft departure so my Ops Clerk ran up to open the gates. It quickly became clear that our VIP on this occasion was Malcolm Rifkind and he had arrived a little early. I made a dash for the VIP suite (fortunately we always had this prepared for visitors) while at the same time alerting the crew in the Mess, who initially thought it was a prank on my part ("HRH is still at the game" the Captain cried). While I entertained our guest, trying my best to distract him from looking out of the window that overlooked the pan, the crew rushed down and hastily started their pre-flight checks. Fortunately, I had become quite familiar with the Defence Secretary having met him several times and always finding him to be quite affable although I suspect he had a good idea about the issue. Shortly thereafter, I got the thumbs up and escorted our VIP to his aircraft. I thought the drama was over but there was one last act. As the aircraft began to taxi out and I threw up a salute, a sharp-eyed member of the see-off crew noticed that the crew had left the ground locks in place so there was another 30-second delay as these were removed and hastily thrown into the rear hold. So, no Princess Royal on that occasion but I had met her so many times that there was a joke going around the base that she was going to get an invitation to my forthcoming wedding (which according to Chris Goss never actually took place).
The EU Summit in December was also an intense couple of days for our small team. The biggest challenge was handling President Mitterand's jet. At the time, the French authorities insisted on flying three identical Falcon 50s to Edinburgh as part of their close protection protocol for moving the President; the problem was that they would not tell anyone on the ground (Civilian ATC included) which of the three jets contained the Presidential party and so all three aircraft were going to taxi to an already overcrowded dispersal. This played havoc with the local reception party too but we got there in the end without any major dramas.
The Princess was not on board so we all assumed it was an outbound task only. Sandy (My Ops Clerk) and I watched the game on the TV in the Ops Office (from where we could see the Main Gate) and noticed that Princess Anne was, indeed, at the game. All is well, we thought. The crew will saunter down just before the final whistle so that they are ready to go as soon as HRH arrives from Murrayfield with her police escort some ten minutes later. Roughly halfway through the second half, we noticed a rather smart black Jaguar arrive at the front gates of the camp; Since we had no permanent Guard stationed at the gates over the weekends, normal procedure was for the duty staff to man the gates from roughly ten minutes before aircraft departure so my Ops Clerk ran up to open the gates. It quickly became clear that our VIP on this occasion was Malcolm Rifkind and he had arrived a little early. I made a dash for the VIP suite (fortunately we always had this prepared for visitors) while at the same time alerting the crew in the Mess, who initially thought it was a prank on my part ("HRH is still at the game" the Captain cried). While I entertained our guest, trying my best to distract him from looking out of the window that overlooked the pan, the crew rushed down and hastily started their pre-flight checks. Fortunately, I had become quite familiar with the Defence Secretary having met him several times and always finding him to be quite affable although I suspect he had a good idea about the issue. Shortly thereafter, I got the thumbs up and escorted our VIP to his aircraft. I thought the drama was over but there was one last act. As the aircraft began to taxi out and I threw up a salute, a sharp-eyed member of the see-off crew noticed that the crew had left the ground locks in place so there was another 30-second delay as these were removed and hastily thrown into the rear hold. So, no Princess Royal on that occasion but I had met her so many times that there was a joke going around the base that she was going to get an invitation to my forthcoming wedding (which according to Chris Goss never actually took place).
The EU Summit in December was also an intense couple of days for our small team. The biggest challenge was handling President Mitterand's jet. At the time, the French authorities insisted on flying three identical Falcon 50s to Edinburgh as part of their close protection protocol for moving the President; the problem was that they would not tell anyone on the ground (Civilian ATC included) which of the three jets contained the Presidential party and so all three aircraft were going to taxi to an already overcrowded dispersal. This played havoc with the local reception party too but we got there in the end without any major dramas.
Ministers confirm RAF Hercules aircraft will be mothballed next month
The Ministry of Defence is to retire its remaining C-130 Hercules at the end of June, 12 years earlier than previous planned, under a reorganisation announced in 2021. But since that decision was taken they have been used successfully by the RAF in crisis spots, including Afghanistan and Sudan. Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey said: "From the Kabul airlift to the Sudan evacuation, Hercules planes have allowed our troops to rescue thousands of UK nationals from harms way."
In a written answer to a parliamentary question, Defence Minister James Cartlidge confirmed that plans to ground the Hercules would go ahead on June 30. He added: "Appropriate disposal activities have already begun in support of the potential sale of the airframes, flight simulators, support equipment, and the remaining specialised C130J spares inventory."
The Ministry of Defence decided in 2019 to extend the working life of the aircraft to 2035, having previously agreed to retire it in 2030. But just two years later, in 2021, the 'Defence in a Competitive Age' command paper changed the plan to taking them out of service in just two years.
Air Force officials have admitted that plans to replace the ageing airframes - the first US-made Hercules flew more than 60 years ago - with the Airbus A400M Atlas (pictured) would leave the UK with a 'capability gap' lasting two years. The Commons Defence Committee is currently investigating the plan over concerns it would leave the RAF short of airlifting capability.
In February, Air Chief Marshal Michael Wigston, the operational head of the RAF, defended the decision, telling the committee the decision would allow it to move to 'modern, better, faster, tactical transport aircraft with a greater payload'. "The Hercules has been a magnificent platform, and many people will regret its retirement, because of the service it has given over many decades," he said. "But by the time the Hercules goes out of service - our final one lands in June - there will be remaining only a few niche capabilities that the Atlas cannot do, and they will be brought into service within a couple of years."
When pressed by Tory MP Robert Courts that there would be a '(capability) gap, none the less', he added: "Again, this is a remarkable success story, because when the decision was made to take Hercules out of service, some of these capabilities were not programmed to be on Atlas until the end of this decade."
He admitted the change had been made 'to save money'.
dailymail.co.uk
In a written answer to a parliamentary question, Defence Minister James Cartlidge confirmed that plans to ground the Hercules would go ahead on June 30. He added: "Appropriate disposal activities have already begun in support of the potential sale of the airframes, flight simulators, support equipment, and the remaining specialised C130J spares inventory."
The Ministry of Defence decided in 2019 to extend the working life of the aircraft to 2035, having previously agreed to retire it in 2030. But just two years later, in 2021, the 'Defence in a Competitive Age' command paper changed the plan to taking them out of service in just two years.
Air Force officials have admitted that plans to replace the ageing airframes - the first US-made Hercules flew more than 60 years ago - with the Airbus A400M Atlas (pictured) would leave the UK with a 'capability gap' lasting two years. The Commons Defence Committee is currently investigating the plan over concerns it would leave the RAF short of airlifting capability.
In February, Air Chief Marshal Michael Wigston, the operational head of the RAF, defended the decision, telling the committee the decision would allow it to move to 'modern, better, faster, tactical transport aircraft with a greater payload'. "The Hercules has been a magnificent platform, and many people will regret its retirement, because of the service it has given over many decades," he said. "But by the time the Hercules goes out of service - our final one lands in June - there will be remaining only a few niche capabilities that the Atlas cannot do, and they will be brought into service within a couple of years."
When pressed by Tory MP Robert Courts that there would be a '(capability) gap, none the less', he added: "Again, this is a remarkable success story, because when the decision was made to take Hercules out of service, some of these capabilities were not programmed to be on Atlas until the end of this decade."
He admitted the change had been made 'to save money'.
dailymail.co.uk
From: Mark Attrill, Tallinn
Subject: VIP Encounters
Hi Tony,
Having largely avoided it during my early Movements tours, the phenomena of 'VIP Handling' caught up with me with a vengeance after my posting to RAF Turnhouse in December 1991. The assigned post was described as 'OC Supply, Movements & Operations' with my Movements & Operations Staff initially consisting of one RAF Corporal (Air Traffic Control) and me. 95% of all military flights into Edinburgh were handled by our small enclave on the Southern side of the airport, including a large number of RAF/FAA and NATO fast jets that were utilising Scotland's low flying system following the implementation of Post-Cold War restrictions over Germany. In each of the years that I was in post (1991-93) our VIP movements exceeded those of RAF Northolt with my first year being particularly busy since Edinburgh hosted the European Union Summit in December 1992. During my time, I met every senior member of the Royal Family with the notable exception of HRH the Late Princess Diana, countless members of European Royal Families, every EU Head of State, President Yang Shangkun (Peoples Republic of China), most of the Government Cabinet, Neil Kinnock, and Margaret Thatcher (for the first time) among others. Just before the EU Summit the RAF graciously agreed to my request to have an additional, SAC Mover, established for the Movements & Operations Section.
There were, inevitably, several incidents during my tour and the following instantly spring to mind. Prince Phillip was one of our regulars and on this occasion he was travelling outbound and was down to 'fly' his HS.125 to Northern Ireland. The jet duly arrived from Northolt; it was one of the Light Grey versions with the DAS fitted, as was the protocol for NI military flights. At the time, 32 Sqn also operated some of their aircraft in the more traditional White 'biz jet' colour scheme which he preferred so I got finger poked for organising an aircraft in the 'wrong colour scheme'. My suggestion that it was for his own safety went unheeded on this occasion; I had obviously caught him on a bad day.
Subject: VIP Encounters
Hi Tony,
Having largely avoided it during my early Movements tours, the phenomena of 'VIP Handling' caught up with me with a vengeance after my posting to RAF Turnhouse in December 1991. The assigned post was described as 'OC Supply, Movements & Operations' with my Movements & Operations Staff initially consisting of one RAF Corporal (Air Traffic Control) and me. 95% of all military flights into Edinburgh were handled by our small enclave on the Southern side of the airport, including a large number of RAF/FAA and NATO fast jets that were utilising Scotland's low flying system following the implementation of Post-Cold War restrictions over Germany. In each of the years that I was in post (1991-93) our VIP movements exceeded those of RAF Northolt with my first year being particularly busy since Edinburgh hosted the European Union Summit in December 1992. During my time, I met every senior member of the Royal Family with the notable exception of HRH the Late Princess Diana, countless members of European Royal Families, every EU Head of State, President Yang Shangkun (Peoples Republic of China), most of the Government Cabinet, Neil Kinnock, and Margaret Thatcher (for the first time) among others. Just before the EU Summit the RAF graciously agreed to my request to have an additional, SAC Mover, established for the Movements & Operations Section.
There were, inevitably, several incidents during my tour and the following instantly spring to mind. Prince Phillip was one of our regulars and on this occasion he was travelling outbound and was down to 'fly' his HS.125 to Northern Ireland. The jet duly arrived from Northolt; it was one of the Light Grey versions with the DAS fitted, as was the protocol for NI military flights. At the time, 32 Sqn also operated some of their aircraft in the more traditional White 'biz jet' colour scheme which he preferred so I got finger poked for organising an aircraft in the 'wrong colour scheme'. My suggestion that it was for his own safety went unheeded on this occasion; I had obviously caught him on a bad day.
I was also fortunate enough to meet some celebrities during my time though not directly through my primary duties. I worked with the late Bob Dixon in the Media Team for the annual Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford from the mid 1990s where, each year, we lured a like-minded aviation mad celebrity to help us with the official PR launch of the show in the week leading up to the event. Bob appreciated my deep knowledge of all things aviation so I was regularly (t)asked to escort our celebrity visitors around the exhibits that had already arrived for the show. As a result, I met David Jason, Martin Shaw (Inspector George Gently etc), Robert Powell (Jesus of Nazareth), Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom from Harry Potter) and Amanda Holden, among others. David Jason was the standout visitor, adopting his Del Boy persona for much of the guided tour; during our visit to look at a Ukrainian Sukhoi jet he observed the rather threadbare tyres and suggested to a rather bemused member of the groundcrew (who spoke little English) that "these tyres had no doubt been supplied by Boysies Garage".
More recently I have had a very interesting interaction with King Harald of Norway, who has a similar reputation to that enjoyed by the Late Duke of Edinburgh, but I have rattled on for long enough so I will leave that dit for another occasion.
Cheers
Mark A
More recently I have had a very interesting interaction with King Harald of Norway, who has a similar reputation to that enjoyed by the Late Duke of Edinburgh, but I have rattled on for long enough so I will leave that dit for another occasion.
Cheers
Mark A
Some years later I had my second encounter with Margaret Thatcher. I was the Head of the Defence Passenger Reservation Centre in London and one of the highlights of our social calendar was the annual cocktail party hosted in Lincolns Inn by the Falkland Islands Government Office with which we did a lot of business. All of the uniformed staff of the DPRC (five of us at that time) received an invitation. As you can imagine, the party included a 'who's who' of those key personalities that had been involved in the Falklands War with Margaret Thatcher and Sir Rex Hunt as Guests of Honour. The party always ended with a traditional Beating of the Retreat performed by one of the Guards Regiments in the courtyard to signal that it was time for guests to depart. My 'team' and I had decided to go to the pub afterwards and were just standing off from the pathway to let the VIPs depart first when Margaret and Dennis decided that they were not done with their socialising and made a beeline for the group. In spite of our civilian attire, and as sharp as always, Maggie instantly recognised that we were 'military men' and engaged in some very pleasant conversation with everyone for 10 minutes before they took their leave. She had certainly mellowed since my first encounter with her at Turnhouse in 1992 when she was on the campaign trail supporting John Major for the next General Election.
From: Wayne Flaherty, Winnipeg, MB
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting was without a doubt Lahr, Germany. It started in Jan 1975 and ended in July 1979. Lahr is located in the middle of the Black Forest, which is one of the most scenic areas of Germany. We had a great shift and every other weekend was a long one. We had the best movers in the world. Every one of us received at least one promotion during our tour. I felt blessed to be able to work with all of them. Our off-duty hours were spent visiting the local and not so local sights and often went on Volks Marches with all of our families. A wonderful time with wonderful people. It just never would get any better than this.
Best regards
Wayne
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting was without a doubt Lahr, Germany. It started in Jan 1975 and ended in July 1979. Lahr is located in the middle of the Black Forest, which is one of the most scenic areas of Germany. We had a great shift and every other weekend was a long one. We had the best movers in the world. Every one of us received at least one promotion during our tour. I felt blessed to be able to work with all of them. Our off-duty hours were spent visiting the local and not so local sights and often went on Volks Marches with all of our families. A wonderful time with wonderful people. It just never would get any better than this.
Best regards
Wayne
From: Robert Pountney, Forres, Moray
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
One of my favourite postings was to 1113 Marine Craft Unit at Holyhead, Anglesey where I was the unit storeman and did everything from issuing POL to the boats, normal stores provisioning via a weekly run to RAF Valley and I was a real "Blanket Stacker" with my own blanket and bedding store. Not really enough to keep me busy so I spent a lot of time on the Range Safety Launches, which were used for winching practice for the helicopters from Valley, not knowing that some years later I would be a winchman under training working with the same boats.
I have to add another favourite posting which was to RAF Hack Green, the now-secret bunker, near Nantwich where I was a young SAC, with a Cpl in charge, of the unit supply section. We did everything from delivering coal to the officers' quarters. our own POL pump, normal supply duties, a thrice-weekly run to Ternhill, taking furniture to be refurbished in Manchester but, worst of all, barrack stores including the weekly AMQ sheet change! Not a job for the squeamish as every sheet had to be folded to the satisfaction of the Barrack staff at Ternhill or they wouldn't change them. My days on SAR were probably the most satisfying including a 4½ year tour in Hong Kong but that's another story.
Cheers!
Bob
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
One of my favourite postings was to 1113 Marine Craft Unit at Holyhead, Anglesey where I was the unit storeman and did everything from issuing POL to the boats, normal stores provisioning via a weekly run to RAF Valley and I was a real "Blanket Stacker" with my own blanket and bedding store. Not really enough to keep me busy so I spent a lot of time on the Range Safety Launches, which were used for winching practice for the helicopters from Valley, not knowing that some years later I would be a winchman under training working with the same boats.
I have to add another favourite posting which was to RAF Hack Green, the now-secret bunker, near Nantwich where I was a young SAC, with a Cpl in charge, of the unit supply section. We did everything from delivering coal to the officers' quarters. our own POL pump, normal supply duties, a thrice-weekly run to Ternhill, taking furniture to be refurbished in Manchester but, worst of all, barrack stores including the weekly AMQ sheet change! Not a job for the squeamish as every sheet had to be folded to the satisfaction of the Barrack staff at Ternhill or they wouldn't change them. My days on SAR were probably the most satisfying including a 4½ year tour in Hong Kong but that's another story.
Cheers!
Bob
Cutting fleet of RAF aircraft 'probably worst decision since end of WW2'
From: Gabriele Rusciano, North Sydney, NSW
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hello Tony,
My favourite posting was RAAF base Amberley in QLD. We used to go for hikes up in Mt Tambourine and over to the Gold Coast for a swim and the markets on the Esplanade.
We were fortunate enough to also have a golf course on the base where if you knocked your ball off the green it would be lost for eternity because the rough used to get waist high.
I loved it the most because it was home of my favourite aircraft at the time, the C17-A Globemaster, what a remarkable piece of machinery!
Gabriele
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hello Tony,
My favourite posting was RAAF base Amberley in QLD. We used to go for hikes up in Mt Tambourine and over to the Gold Coast for a swim and the markets on the Esplanade.
We were fortunate enough to also have a golf course on the base where if you knocked your ball off the green it would be lost for eternity because the rough used to get waist high.
I loved it the most because it was home of my favourite aircraft at the time, the C17-A Globemaster, what a remarkable piece of machinery!
Gabriele
From: Eric Batty c/o Andrew Tiny, Witney, Oxon
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
For us I think it had to be Cyprus, although the '74 conflict was smack in the middle of the posting, Akrotiri was the most amazing place. Dad was with the most amazing team (like family!).
Cheers!
Andrew
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
For us I think it had to be Cyprus, although the '74 conflict was smack in the middle of the posting, Akrotiri was the most amazing place. Dad was with the most amazing team (like family!).
Cheers!
Andrew
The UK’s decision to retire the C-130 Hercules aircraft has sparked concerns among experts, as it may significantly impact the country’s airlift capability. Andy Netherwood, a former RAF pilot with extensive experience, including three years flying C-17s for the US Air Force on exchange, recently testified before a parliamentary committee and emphasised the potential consequences of this move.
Netherwood’s expertise in both RAF and US Air Force operations lends significant weight to his concerns about the retirement of the C-130 Hercules. His hands-on experience with various aircraft types allows him to provide unique insights into the challenges the UK may face without this versatile transport aircraft.
Netherwood highlighted the unique role the C-130 Hercules plays in the UK’s military transport, particularly in accessing smaller, austere airfields. He explained, “Sometimes you just need a smaller aircraft because the airfield you go into is quite small… so it really matters how much space you take up on the ramp, and how much runway you need.” He noted that the larger A400 aircraft cannot always replace the C-130 in these situations due to physical limitations.
This could affect special forces operations and other military tasks, as they often require access to smaller airfields. Netherwood stated, “In terms of getting into tiny airfields, the one that springs immediately to mind is special forces, but actually it is anything. Every time we go into a conflict, the airhead is never a well-found, major, Heathrow-size airport; it is always a small regional airport or a small austere strip—so size matters.”
The removal of the C-130 Hercules from the UK’s fleet could also impact the country’s ability to maintain air bridges to strategic locations, such as Cyprus, the Falklands, and Diego Garcia. Netherwood suggested that while peacetime demands might be met with the remaining aircraft, “inevitably, though, we will hollow out the capability that we will need if we go to war.”
Furthermore, the UK’s ability to work with allies, particularly the United States, may be affected by the loss of the C-130 Hercules. Netherwood emphasised the value the US places on allies who can transport their forces and equipment independently, sharing that “one of the things they loved about the UK was that most of the time we can get ourselves from A to B and back again.”
While the integrated review refresh may reconsider this decision, the upcoming Command Paper in June will provide further clarity on the fate of the C-130 Hercules. As it stands, the removal of this critical aircraft from the UK’s fleet could have significant implications for both military operations and international relations.
ukdefencejournal.org.uk
Netherwood’s expertise in both RAF and US Air Force operations lends significant weight to his concerns about the retirement of the C-130 Hercules. His hands-on experience with various aircraft types allows him to provide unique insights into the challenges the UK may face without this versatile transport aircraft.
Netherwood highlighted the unique role the C-130 Hercules plays in the UK’s military transport, particularly in accessing smaller, austere airfields. He explained, “Sometimes you just need a smaller aircraft because the airfield you go into is quite small… so it really matters how much space you take up on the ramp, and how much runway you need.” He noted that the larger A400 aircraft cannot always replace the C-130 in these situations due to physical limitations.
This could affect special forces operations and other military tasks, as they often require access to smaller airfields. Netherwood stated, “In terms of getting into tiny airfields, the one that springs immediately to mind is special forces, but actually it is anything. Every time we go into a conflict, the airhead is never a well-found, major, Heathrow-size airport; it is always a small regional airport or a small austere strip—so size matters.”
The removal of the C-130 Hercules from the UK’s fleet could also impact the country’s ability to maintain air bridges to strategic locations, such as Cyprus, the Falklands, and Diego Garcia. Netherwood suggested that while peacetime demands might be met with the remaining aircraft, “inevitably, though, we will hollow out the capability that we will need if we go to war.”
Furthermore, the UK’s ability to work with allies, particularly the United States, may be affected by the loss of the C-130 Hercules. Netherwood emphasised the value the US places on allies who can transport their forces and equipment independently, sharing that “one of the things they loved about the UK was that most of the time we can get ourselves from A to B and back again.”
While the integrated review refresh may reconsider this decision, the upcoming Command Paper in June will provide further clarity on the fate of the C-130 Hercules. As it stands, the removal of this critical aircraft from the UK’s fleet could have significant implications for both military operations and international relations.
ukdefencejournal.org.uk
From: Fred Hebb, Gold River, NS
Subject: Favourite posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting had to be Air Transport Group Headquarters (ATGHQ) in Standards and Evaluation. It was the most challenging and gratifying job I had to this point. It also led to another great posting to USAFE HQ in Ramstein Germany in the Airlift division.
ATGHQ gave me the opportunity to put to practice the skills I experienced throughout my years in the RCAF. ATGHQ gave me the opportunity to challenge myself with the inception of the Dash 7 having to write emergency procedures for the cabin crew and passengers on the new airplane along with developing the new weight and balance and load planning documents for the Dash 7. Also had some great trips with ATG.
Cheers!
Fred
Subject: Favourite posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting had to be Air Transport Group Headquarters (ATGHQ) in Standards and Evaluation. It was the most challenging and gratifying job I had to this point. It also led to another great posting to USAFE HQ in Ramstein Germany in the Airlift division.
ATGHQ gave me the opportunity to put to practice the skills I experienced throughout my years in the RCAF. ATGHQ gave me the opportunity to challenge myself with the inception of the Dash 7 having to write emergency procedures for the cabin crew and passengers on the new airplane along with developing the new weight and balance and load planning documents for the Dash 7. Also had some great trips with ATG.
Cheers!
Fred
From: Paul “Arfur” English, Sparcells, Wilts
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
Best posting for me was Akrotiri, three years in the sun sampling the Island and getting paid for it! But the real highlight I think was getting to enjoy one of my secondary duties; rescue diver for the sailing club. I did try sailing once but I never enjoyed it. However, give me anything with wings or wheels/engines and I’m happier.
Imagine my surprise when on my first day I met none other than a former Movements instructor John Gardiner, who was now OC Sailing Club and a Sqn/Ldr to boot [John rose through the ranks]. There was a very relaxed atmosphere in the club as to rank. We chatted as if we had left the crew room only the day before.
Wednesday afternoons when not on shift were spent setting out the prescribed course and the just waiting for an incident to occur. Thankfully I only had to rescue one person in that time and one of our float weights which had detached. My fellow crew member was a doctor from Episkopi, an Army Major, who said "I think we have lost that one, bout 3 metres down". Well, I like the odd challenge or two and we were short on weights; mask and snorkel on. “If you get it back,” he says, “the beers are on me!" Over the side I go with rope in hand. I managed to secure the lost weight in two attempts and then enjoyed a few beers in the club house!
Arfur
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
Best posting for me was Akrotiri, three years in the sun sampling the Island and getting paid for it! But the real highlight I think was getting to enjoy one of my secondary duties; rescue diver for the sailing club. I did try sailing once but I never enjoyed it. However, give me anything with wings or wheels/engines and I’m happier.
Imagine my surprise when on my first day I met none other than a former Movements instructor John Gardiner, who was now OC Sailing Club and a Sqn/Ldr to boot [John rose through the ranks]. There was a very relaxed atmosphere in the club as to rank. We chatted as if we had left the crew room only the day before.
Wednesday afternoons when not on shift were spent setting out the prescribed course and the just waiting for an incident to occur. Thankfully I only had to rescue one person in that time and one of our float weights which had detached. My fellow crew member was a doctor from Episkopi, an Army Major, who said "I think we have lost that one, bout 3 metres down". Well, I like the odd challenge or two and we were short on weights; mask and snorkel on. “If you get it back,” he says, “the beers are on me!" Over the side I go with rope in hand. I managed to secure the lost weight in two attempts and then enjoyed a few beers in the club house!
Arfur
RAF Akrotiri Sailing Club
Aircraft stationed at RAF Brize Norton [played] a pivotal role in the evacuation of British citizens from Sudan. The RAF’s Air Mobility Force, which includes C-17 Globemaster, A400M Atlas, and C-130J Hercules aircraft, has been conducting flights from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus to Sudan to execute this critical evacuation operation.
In addition to the evacuation efforts, the Air Mobility Force aircraft have been operating between RAF Brize Norton and RAF Akrotiri to ensure that the support force, consisting of over 1,500 UK Armed Forces personnel, is positioned and ready to conduct the operation on the UK Government’s orders while remaining properly supported.
Air Marshal Harv Smyth, Deputy Commander Operations of the RAF, stated, “The ability of the Air Mobility Force and all our associated supporting units to conduct this operation with such pace and precision demonstrates our flexibility and agility to utilise air power at range, at a moment’s notice, to protect UK citizens anywhere across the world.” He added that the RAF is concurrently supporting other critical operations, such as those in Ukraine and across the Middle East, expressing immense pride in the team’s ongoing efforts.
Evacuation flights were conducted by A400M Atlas and C-130J Hercules aircraft, departing from Wadi Seidna north of Khartoum. Upon arrival at Larnaca Airport in Cyprus, evacuees were subsequently returning to the UK on board FCDO-chartered aircraft. Concurrently, RAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft had been carrying equipment to Sudan and the surrounding region to support ongoing operations. In addition to these essential sorties, members of Number 1 Squadron, RAF Regiment, were deployed to provide security at landing sites in Sudan, while RAF Police are assisting evacuees. Air Movements personnel have also been deployed to manage logistics, with 24/7 command and control supported by Number 11 Group at HQ Air Command in Buckinghamshire.
As part of the initial flights, RAF Voyager aircraft transported elements of the 16 Air Assault Brigade to Cyprus, along with additional RAF personnel to augment the British Forces already stationed on the island. The RAF has also deployed further support, including chefs from 3 Mobile Catering Squadron, medics from the Tactical Medical Wing, and communication technicians from 90 Signals Unit.
ukdefencejournal.org.uk
In addition to the evacuation efforts, the Air Mobility Force aircraft have been operating between RAF Brize Norton and RAF Akrotiri to ensure that the support force, consisting of over 1,500 UK Armed Forces personnel, is positioned and ready to conduct the operation on the UK Government’s orders while remaining properly supported.
Air Marshal Harv Smyth, Deputy Commander Operations of the RAF, stated, “The ability of the Air Mobility Force and all our associated supporting units to conduct this operation with such pace and precision demonstrates our flexibility and agility to utilise air power at range, at a moment’s notice, to protect UK citizens anywhere across the world.” He added that the RAF is concurrently supporting other critical operations, such as those in Ukraine and across the Middle East, expressing immense pride in the team’s ongoing efforts.
Evacuation flights were conducted by A400M Atlas and C-130J Hercules aircraft, departing from Wadi Seidna north of Khartoum. Upon arrival at Larnaca Airport in Cyprus, evacuees were subsequently returning to the UK on board FCDO-chartered aircraft. Concurrently, RAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft had been carrying equipment to Sudan and the surrounding region to support ongoing operations. In addition to these essential sorties, members of Number 1 Squadron, RAF Regiment, were deployed to provide security at landing sites in Sudan, while RAF Police are assisting evacuees. Air Movements personnel have also been deployed to manage logistics, with 24/7 command and control supported by Number 11 Group at HQ Air Command in Buckinghamshire.
As part of the initial flights, RAF Voyager aircraft transported elements of the 16 Air Assault Brigade to Cyprus, along with additional RAF personnel to augment the British Forces already stationed on the island. The RAF has also deployed further support, including chefs from 3 Mobile Catering Squadron, medics from the Tactical Medical Wing, and communication technicians from 90 Signals Unit.
ukdefencejournal.org.uk
From: Stephen Davey, Tadcaster, North Yorks
Subject: Favourite Posting
Tony,
My favourite posting was definitely not Brize Norton! I would put Brüggen at the top of my list. I met and worked with some great folks and got to visit all over Europe. There was plenty of opportunity to play my favourite sports, i.e. cricket and football and also my hobby which was fishing. Oh, and by the way, I actually did some work as well when called for!
Just an aside, my WO in SCAF was Joe Walcott (Theo Walcott's grandad), look him up, he was also a cricket umpire so I was always well in with him!
Regards
Steve
Subject: Favourite Posting
Tony,
My favourite posting was definitely not Brize Norton! I would put Brüggen at the top of my list. I met and worked with some great folks and got to visit all over Europe. There was plenty of opportunity to play my favourite sports, i.e. cricket and football and also my hobby which was fishing. Oh, and by the way, I actually did some work as well when called for!
Just an aside, my WO in SCAF was Joe Walcott (Theo Walcott's grandad), look him up, he was also a cricket umpire so I was always well in with him!
Regards
Steve
From: Barry Tappenden, Shortstown, Beds
Subject: Favourite Posting
Good evening Tony,
I don’t think I can have a favourite posting after my tour with MAMS in the Far East, but a close second would be my posting as Detachment Commander at RAF Biggin Hill. When I arrived the station had been closed for some time but still supported the Officers' Married Quarters that housed some officers who were currently working in London.
One of the most outstanding achievements whilst there was to look after the Chapel and ensuring that visitors were given a brief history; pointing out that the Book of Remembrance is turned to the current day and that the floor was made of converted wooden aircraft props from WWII era fighter aircraft. Also I arranged for the gate guardian aircraft to get a “face lift” courtesy of the “Painters and Dopers” at RAF St Athan. The station held many awesome WW2 stories and in the evening, whilst walking around the remaining camp site, you could “feel” a strong bond.
Barry
Subject: Favourite Posting
Good evening Tony,
I don’t think I can have a favourite posting after my tour with MAMS in the Far East, but a close second would be my posting as Detachment Commander at RAF Biggin Hill. When I arrived the station had been closed for some time but still supported the Officers' Married Quarters that housed some officers who were currently working in London.
One of the most outstanding achievements whilst there was to look after the Chapel and ensuring that visitors were given a brief history; pointing out that the Book of Remembrance is turned to the current day and that the floor was made of converted wooden aircraft props from WWII era fighter aircraft. Also I arranged for the gate guardian aircraft to get a “face lift” courtesy of the “Painters and Dopers” at RAF St Athan. The station held many awesome WW2 stories and in the evening, whilst walking around the remaining camp site, you could “feel” a strong bond.
Barry
RAF Biggin Hill - a spruced up gate guardian
with St. George's Chapel in the background
with St. George's Chapel in the background
Inside St. George's Chapel - the wooden floor is made up of repurposed wooden propellers from WWII fighter aircraft
A stained glass window in the chapel depicts a slain dragon with St George in the foreground and a scene from the Battle of Britain in the upper background
A stained glass window in St. George's Chapel at Biggin Hill commemorating the ground control WAAF personnel during the Battle of Britain
From: Andy Downard, Ballarat, VIC
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting would have to be Gan. The best holiday ever (with a little work on the side). Highlights would be the Marine Bar run by SASF, snorkelling the reef and the beach behind Air Movements. The work wasn’t bad either, I got picked to be the Trim Clerk, something that was initially terrifying, but came with the benefit of all those lady ‘Loadies’. My farewell mug was inscribed “sensual trimsheets”. I also got to do some interesting stuff, like offloading marine cargo from the regular resupply ship. I’d probably add in the jolly across to Singapore with Dave Whyke as a highlight, but we won’t go into any details on that! So definitely, Gan! … Although Akrotiri, where I met my lovely wife, should also get a mention😉
Andy
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting would have to be Gan. The best holiday ever (with a little work on the side). Highlights would be the Marine Bar run by SASF, snorkelling the reef and the beach behind Air Movements. The work wasn’t bad either, I got picked to be the Trim Clerk, something that was initially terrifying, but came with the benefit of all those lady ‘Loadies’. My farewell mug was inscribed “sensual trimsheets”. I also got to do some interesting stuff, like offloading marine cargo from the regular resupply ship. I’d probably add in the jolly across to Singapore with Dave Whyke as a highlight, but we won’t go into any details on that! So definitely, Gan! … Although Akrotiri, where I met my lovely wife, should also get a mention😉
Andy
Hercules vs Atlas: How do the RAF transport aircraft compare?
An RAF Atlas during the UK's Sudan evacuation mission
The RAF's last remaining C-130J Hercules transport aircraft are expected to be retired in June this year, with the A400M Atlas set to take their place. Primarily used as a tactical transport aircraft, the C-130J variant has been in service since 1999 but the Hercules has been flown by the UK since 1966. It has been used frequently in countries or regions where there is a threat to aircraft – its performance, tactics and defensive systems make it perfect for those operations.
So, how do the two aircraft compare?
Hercules - Well, the C-130J Hercules is flown by two pilots and uses four 4,700shp Rolls-Royce AE2100D3 turboprop engines. The aircraft has a wingspan of 132ft 7in (40.38m) and a cruising speed of 593km/h (368mph). There are slight variations between the Mark 4 and Mark 5 aircraft. The Mk4 has a length of 112ft 9in (34.34m) and a ferry range of 4,908km (3,049 miles), whilst the Mk5 has a length of 97ft 9in (29.77m) and a ferry range of 5,078km (3,155 miles). Both variants have a maximum altitude of 40,000ft and a cruising altitude of 28,000ft.
The aircraft itself is highly flexible, with the ability to airdrop both stores and paratroopers and operate from natural surface landing zones – not just airbases and runways. The crew of the Hercules are also highly skilled in low-level flying in order to perform in its role, whilst night-vision goggles allow the aircraft to perform the same duty at night. Station-keeping equipment means it can remain in formation during bad weather, while Air Survival Apparatus can be carried for search and rescue missions. The Hercules has been deployed in theatres across the globe since it entered service, including most recently in Sudan to help the UK Government's evacuation mission of the country. The Hercules was also deployed to Turkey after the country was hit by a devastating earthquake in February 2023, as well as in the Middle East as part of the RAF's Operation Shader – combatting the threat of ISIS militants in Iraq and Syria.
So, how do the two aircraft compare?
Hercules - Well, the C-130J Hercules is flown by two pilots and uses four 4,700shp Rolls-Royce AE2100D3 turboprop engines. The aircraft has a wingspan of 132ft 7in (40.38m) and a cruising speed of 593km/h (368mph). There are slight variations between the Mark 4 and Mark 5 aircraft. The Mk4 has a length of 112ft 9in (34.34m) and a ferry range of 4,908km (3,049 miles), whilst the Mk5 has a length of 97ft 9in (29.77m) and a ferry range of 5,078km (3,155 miles). Both variants have a maximum altitude of 40,000ft and a cruising altitude of 28,000ft.
The aircraft itself is highly flexible, with the ability to airdrop both stores and paratroopers and operate from natural surface landing zones – not just airbases and runways. The crew of the Hercules are also highly skilled in low-level flying in order to perform in its role, whilst night-vision goggles allow the aircraft to perform the same duty at night. Station-keeping equipment means it can remain in formation during bad weather, while Air Survival Apparatus can be carried for search and rescue missions. The Hercules has been deployed in theatres across the globe since it entered service, including most recently in Sudan to help the UK Government's evacuation mission of the country. The Hercules was also deployed to Turkey after the country was hit by a devastating earthquake in February 2023, as well as in the Middle East as part of the RAF's Operation Shader – combatting the threat of ISIS militants in Iraq and Syria.
Atlas - The Atlas A400M entered service with the RAF in 2014, providing tactical airlift and strategic oversize list capabilities alongside the Hercules, and C-17 fleets. The Atlas, like the Hercules, is also a four-engine turboprop aircraft. It can carry a payload of 37 tonnes more than 2,000 nautical miles to both established and remote airfields, or short unprepared airstrips. It can accommodate as many as 116 fully equipped troops, as well as vehicles and helicopters, including Chinooks. It is also capable of carrying mixed loads, including nine aircraft pallets and 54 passengers, or other combinations of vehicles, pallets and personnel up to 37 tonnes.
It delivers each load via parachute or gravity extraction – dropping – from the aircraft's rear ramp. It has a length of 147ft 11in (45.10m), a wingspan of 139ft 1in (42.40m), a maximum range of 7,593km (4,718 miles) and a maximum altitude of 40,000 ft. Powered by four 11,000shp EuroProp International TP400 turboprops, the Altas has a maximum speed of 741 km/h (460mph). The Atlas aircraft has been used in the UK's evacuation of Sudan, as well as during the evacuation of Kabul airport following Nato's withdrawal from Afghanistan.
On 15 May, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace defended the A400M after MPs in the Commons raised reports that said internal documents showed the aircraft is plagued by problems. Mr Wallace pushed back against the concerns and said the A400M "outperforms" the Hercules in most areas. "It's got a longer range, bigger capacity, can land in the same area, in fact, can land in shorter distance, and in Kabul, the massive evacuation of Kabul, one A400 had a fault for six hours and managed to continue on its course," he said. "The simple reality is the A400 outperforms it (the Hercules), its availability was extremely successful, the Hercules only accounts for 10% of the fleet and the overall fleet for lift is now the biggest it has been for 50 years."
Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge also protected the aircraft's record, highlighting its key role in the Sudan evacuation mission. "I know there is a great affection for the Hercules but just to go back to what the secretary of state was talking about in terms of the recent performance in Sudan, it's such an important operation," he told the House of Commons. "The largest number of evacuees carried out of Sudan by the Hercules was 143. The largest number in an A400 I can confirm was around 100 more than that."
In March 2021, Mr Wallace announced the C-130J Hercules would be retired in June, 2023, after 24 years of service while 22 A400Ms would be part of efforts to "provide a more capable and flexible transport fleet".
forces.net
It delivers each load via parachute or gravity extraction – dropping – from the aircraft's rear ramp. It has a length of 147ft 11in (45.10m), a wingspan of 139ft 1in (42.40m), a maximum range of 7,593km (4,718 miles) and a maximum altitude of 40,000 ft. Powered by four 11,000shp EuroProp International TP400 turboprops, the Altas has a maximum speed of 741 km/h (460mph). The Atlas aircraft has been used in the UK's evacuation of Sudan, as well as during the evacuation of Kabul airport following Nato's withdrawal from Afghanistan.
On 15 May, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace defended the A400M after MPs in the Commons raised reports that said internal documents showed the aircraft is plagued by problems. Mr Wallace pushed back against the concerns and said the A400M "outperforms" the Hercules in most areas. "It's got a longer range, bigger capacity, can land in the same area, in fact, can land in shorter distance, and in Kabul, the massive evacuation of Kabul, one A400 had a fault for six hours and managed to continue on its course," he said. "The simple reality is the A400 outperforms it (the Hercules), its availability was extremely successful, the Hercules only accounts for 10% of the fleet and the overall fleet for lift is now the biggest it has been for 50 years."
Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge also protected the aircraft's record, highlighting its key role in the Sudan evacuation mission. "I know there is a great affection for the Hercules but just to go back to what the secretary of state was talking about in terms of the recent performance in Sudan, it's such an important operation," he told the House of Commons. "The largest number of evacuees carried out of Sudan by the Hercules was 143. The largest number in an A400 I can confirm was around 100 more than that."
In March 2021, Mr Wallace announced the C-130J Hercules would be retired in June, 2023, after 24 years of service while 22 A400Ms would be part of efforts to "provide a more capable and flexible transport fleet".
forces.net
From: Stephen Bird, Warrington, Cheshire
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hello Tony,
My favourite posting by a country mile was RAF Gutersloh from 1984 – 1988; having recently got married with a little baby girl in tow (who’s now nearly 40!).
Holding the rank of SAC Operator with very little spare cash, the appeal initially was purely financial. I was posted out to Gutersloh and had to wait for several months for an AMQ. I was initially accommodated in the first block on the right as you went through the gates at Gutersloh along with the other single movers out there, I was a born again singly (well, for several months).
I final got allocated a AMQ which was a rental in Marienfeld, a tiny village with just a scattering of RAF families. It was a lovely flat, but not as good as some around there. I was in that flat for 2 years before moving to Blankenhagen which was so much more user friendly for me and my family due to fact there was a lot more RAF/Army families in the locality.
For me the Gutersloh thing was work hard and play hard/harder, the movers had their own bar of which I worked in initially as a barman but eventually ending up running the Squadron disco, along with Rhys Warner, who was the main man. In addition to this there was so much to do around the local area. There were always trips being organised to somewhere, the highlights being the Mohne Dam and the Hartz Mountains along with many others. There was a lot of beer involved during the whole tour and at 1 DM for a pint in the NAFFI it was hard to refuse, and this was when we were getting 5 DM to the £. This would always be followed by food from the Chicken Inn outside catering on the way home.
But this will sound a bit cheesy, but for me it's what I learnt out there trade-wise, I literally worked in every aspect of the trade in all areas, the aircraft loads and experience gained was never to be surpassed elsewhere. We would regularly be working up at Hanover and on occasions other locations around West Germany, a lot of thinking on our feet was required. We had some excellent WO’s, SNCO’s and Cpl’s who taught me so much, sadly many of the older ones like Chick Hatch and Harry Sutcliffe and have now passed. We had exercise Lionheart whilst I was there the biggest peacetime military exercise ever, something just by the sheer scale of it I will never forget. In December 1984, I was detached to RAF Port Stanley with 3 day's notice, this was much to the dismay of my first wife, maybe that explains why the marriage did not last!
I went there as an Operator and weeks after getting back to the UK as a Controller I was offered my tapes, I literally did every movement related course whilst I was out there, but like I stated, this was my best posting, a heavy mix of work verses pleasure.
Regards
Steve
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hello Tony,
My favourite posting by a country mile was RAF Gutersloh from 1984 – 1988; having recently got married with a little baby girl in tow (who’s now nearly 40!).
Holding the rank of SAC Operator with very little spare cash, the appeal initially was purely financial. I was posted out to Gutersloh and had to wait for several months for an AMQ. I was initially accommodated in the first block on the right as you went through the gates at Gutersloh along with the other single movers out there, I was a born again singly (well, for several months).
I final got allocated a AMQ which was a rental in Marienfeld, a tiny village with just a scattering of RAF families. It was a lovely flat, but not as good as some around there. I was in that flat for 2 years before moving to Blankenhagen which was so much more user friendly for me and my family due to fact there was a lot more RAF/Army families in the locality.
For me the Gutersloh thing was work hard and play hard/harder, the movers had their own bar of which I worked in initially as a barman but eventually ending up running the Squadron disco, along with Rhys Warner, who was the main man. In addition to this there was so much to do around the local area. There were always trips being organised to somewhere, the highlights being the Mohne Dam and the Hartz Mountains along with many others. There was a lot of beer involved during the whole tour and at 1 DM for a pint in the NAFFI it was hard to refuse, and this was when we were getting 5 DM to the £. This would always be followed by food from the Chicken Inn outside catering on the way home.
But this will sound a bit cheesy, but for me it's what I learnt out there trade-wise, I literally worked in every aspect of the trade in all areas, the aircraft loads and experience gained was never to be surpassed elsewhere. We would regularly be working up at Hanover and on occasions other locations around West Germany, a lot of thinking on our feet was required. We had some excellent WO’s, SNCO’s and Cpl’s who taught me so much, sadly many of the older ones like Chick Hatch and Harry Sutcliffe and have now passed. We had exercise Lionheart whilst I was there the biggest peacetime military exercise ever, something just by the sheer scale of it I will never forget. In December 1984, I was detached to RAF Port Stanley with 3 day's notice, this was much to the dismay of my first wife, maybe that explains why the marriage did not last!
I went there as an Operator and weeks after getting back to the UK as a Controller I was offered my tapes, I literally did every movement related course whilst I was out there, but like I stated, this was my best posting, a heavy mix of work verses pleasure.
Regards
Steve
From: Steve Tomlinson, Teneriffe, QLD
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
Ditto to HKG! Fascinating, bustling, place, where life seemed to travel at 100 mph, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year! A place where abject poverty and fabulous wealth lived side by side. The RAF Airport Unit was certainly a unique experience, operating closely with our Mover brethren at the "Booking Office" in Osborn Barracks. With the main RAF contingent based at Sek Kong, in the New Territories, I was a privileged member of the RAOC Blackdown Barracks Mess along King Fuk Gai in San Po Kong located very close behind Kai Tak.
We all had access to an amazingly exotic lifestyle, I was lucky to be a member of many interesting social groups, the RAOC Mess, the "Downtowners" (a group of RAF officers, of wide-ranging specialities & ranks, who were based Downtown), HAMA (the Hong Kong Airport Managers Association where a lot of local logistical challenges could be overcome whilst quaffing a pint of San Miguel with one's civilian airport contemporaries!). I had the chance to take a Cantonese language course, work with the many Gurkha regiments and visit so many Far Eastern countries, whether for work or play, and to experience their differing cultures.
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
Ditto to HKG! Fascinating, bustling, place, where life seemed to travel at 100 mph, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year! A place where abject poverty and fabulous wealth lived side by side. The RAF Airport Unit was certainly a unique experience, operating closely with our Mover brethren at the "Booking Office" in Osborn Barracks. With the main RAF contingent based at Sek Kong, in the New Territories, I was a privileged member of the RAOC Blackdown Barracks Mess along King Fuk Gai in San Po Kong located very close behind Kai Tak.
We all had access to an amazingly exotic lifestyle, I was lucky to be a member of many interesting social groups, the RAOC Mess, the "Downtowners" (a group of RAF officers, of wide-ranging specialities & ranks, who were based Downtown), HAMA (the Hong Kong Airport Managers Association where a lot of local logistical challenges could be overcome whilst quaffing a pint of San Miguel with one's civilian airport contemporaries!). I had the chance to take a Cantonese language course, work with the many Gurkha regiments and visit so many Far Eastern countries, whether for work or play, and to experience their differing cultures.
Prior to HKG, I really enjoyed my 2 tours "down south" in 84 & 85. Working with a close-knit team of guys at Port Stanley, in less-than-ideal conditions (I'm sure the guys in 82 had it much worse!), looking after the "Airbridge" from ASI which was fun and rewarding. The following year, deployed to MPC (Mount Pleasant Complex - not a RAF Station at that stage as being "politically sensitive", no one wanted to upset our sister Services!), to set up "wide body" jet operations from the new airfield. Interesting project, setting-up B747/L1011 operations from what was ostensibly a building site! When I got there, our offices were flat-packed portacabins, yet to be erected, with no furniture to speak of (eventually clandestinely purloined by members of the Flight, from who knows where, I didn't ask! One of the magical abilities of the "Mover" fraternity, to conjure-up much needed equipment from thin air!). All the ACHE was piled-up in the corner of the one, complete, hangar which, 4 weeks out from the first aircraft, we couldn't get out to the Apron as the contractors hadn't even laid the concrete in front of the hangar yet! The amazing sight of 3500-ish civilian workers, lining the runway (with quite a few, on it!) taking snaps of the first aircraft to ever land there! Very emotional for those workers who had toiled all that time with everything, other than local rock and sand, having to be imported from afar. Starting with a pristine site, in the middle of nowhere and resulting in an "operational airport" within 18 months!
Post-HKG, my short stint as a Station Operations Officer at Marham! As any Supply officer, who were seconded into such work will tell you, something totally different, challenging, but immensely rewarding. Also, having the secondary duty of Ops Wing Security Officer certainly kept me busy! I enjoyed every minute of it, with many hilarious moments, shared with my cohort of air traffic control assistants! I'm sure that the following story is not restricted anymore? On one occasion, early in my tour, down the other end of my bench in the COC, I spotted a familiar MMARS terminal. Not busy, I sat at the terminal and started bashing away at the keyboard. At that point, I became aware that the whole COC had fallen silent and everyone was looking at me! SLOPS asked me, curiously, if I knew how to use the machine? Apparently, they used to receive regular reports, via the printer, on the numerous Victor "tanker trails" between the UK & US, but it had fallen silent some months before! Being the helpful chap, I "kick started" the printer, whereupon about 3 to 4 rolls worth of messages, that had lain dormant, "stacked" in the British Airways Booking System computer, eventually spilled out on the floor!!
All that said, we all remember the good times but tend to suppress the bad times, however, I seem to remember "having a ball" wherever I was posted. My 5 years on Nimrods as a Radar Technician at St Mawgan in the early 70's where the "summers" seem to go-on forever. The three "halcyon" months spent, as a pilot-in-waiting, on a holding posting at Binbrook, Lightning Training Flight, were magical! "Supply" tours at Strike Command, Boulmer & Wittering, the "Movements" tours at UKMAMS, Port Stanley, Mount Pleasant, Kai Tak and finally JATE, all had their entertaining moments but, most of all, it was all the people we worked with that made any "Tour" successful & enjoyable.
Cheers!
Steve
All that said, we all remember the good times but tend to suppress the bad times, however, I seem to remember "having a ball" wherever I was posted. My 5 years on Nimrods as a Radar Technician at St Mawgan in the early 70's where the "summers" seem to go-on forever. The three "halcyon" months spent, as a pilot-in-waiting, on a holding posting at Binbrook, Lightning Training Flight, were magical! "Supply" tours at Strike Command, Boulmer & Wittering, the "Movements" tours at UKMAMS, Port Stanley, Mount Pleasant, Kai Tak and finally JATE, all had their entertaining moments but, most of all, it was all the people we worked with that made any "Tour" successful & enjoyable.
Cheers!
Steve
From: Steve Harpum, Faringdon, Oxon
Subject: Favourite Posting
Tony,
I was one of the lucky ones - three accompanied overseas tours (four if you count RAF Lossiemouth!) and plenty of good times in the UK too - but as an overall package RAF Akrotiri in the early 1990's was probably top of my list.
The kids were young, they had loads of friends and it was very safe for them - the Cypriots were generally friendly, loved children and made a fuss of them wherever we went. The weather was reliably good but seldom excessively hot, the on-base family facilities were excellent in those days, the working day was sensibly arranged to allow time to enjoy the aforementioned facilities, the social life was excellent and work itself was interesting and varied. How could we not enjoy 2 and a half years on an island that people pay to visit for just two weeks a year (as indeed I am about to do!)
Best Wishes,
Steve
Subject: Favourite Posting
Tony,
I was one of the lucky ones - three accompanied overseas tours (four if you count RAF Lossiemouth!) and plenty of good times in the UK too - but as an overall package RAF Akrotiri in the early 1990's was probably top of my list.
The kids were young, they had loads of friends and it was very safe for them - the Cypriots were generally friendly, loved children and made a fuss of them wherever we went. The weather was reliably good but seldom excessively hot, the on-base family facilities were excellent in those days, the working day was sensibly arranged to allow time to enjoy the aforementioned facilities, the social life was excellent and work itself was interesting and varied. How could we not enjoy 2 and a half years on an island that people pay to visit for just two weeks a year (as indeed I am about to do!)
Best Wishes,
Steve
From: Graham Allen, Cropwell Butler, Notts
Subject: Best posting
Hi Tony,
The posting I enjoyed the most was Gutersloh. I got to work with some great guys and really enjoyed the variety of work. I knew the area before I got there as I was posted just down the road at Bielefeld and Detmold in my Army days. The family loved going to the Mohne Dam for a picnic when they finished school. Great area.
It said it all when we got posted back to Northolt and on the way through London the kids asked if they could go home now as they did not like London. As much as I agreed with them we had to stay! Went back a few times though for holidays! Pity it’s all gone now! Really sad.
All the best
Graham
Subject: Best posting
Hi Tony,
The posting I enjoyed the most was Gutersloh. I got to work with some great guys and really enjoyed the variety of work. I knew the area before I got there as I was posted just down the road at Bielefeld and Detmold in my Army days. The family loved going to the Mohne Dam for a picnic when they finished school. Great area.
It said it all when we got posted back to Northolt and on the way through London the kids asked if they could go home now as they did not like London. As much as I agreed with them we had to stay! Went back a few times though for holidays! Pity it’s all gone now! Really sad.
All the best
Graham
Bombardier and General Dynamics team up on Canada’s CP-140 replacement
Canadian business jet manufacturer Bombardier is teaming with defence contractor General Dynamics to develop a possible replacement for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF’s) Lockheed Martin CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol aircraft. In a joint statement issued on 18 May, Bombardier and General Dynamics said they will collaborate on a bid for the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMAA), which seeks to expand the capabilities of the ageing Aurora fleet.
A Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 at the Royal International Air Tattoo in 2016. The Canada
Multi-Mission Aircraft programme seeks to replace the CP-140, which is to be retired in 2030
Multi-Mission Aircraft programme seeks to replace the CP-140, which is to be retired in 2030
The move challenges Boeing, which until recently appeared to have a lock on the programme. Bombardier’s Global 6500 jet, which the company produces domestically, will be the foundation for its bid. General Dynamics would be responsible for integration of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) mission systems.
“The foundation for the [CMMA] team’s solution is the highly efficient and agile Global 6500 aircraft, the right-sized jet for the CMMA, with next-generation engines, long range, high endurance, and coupled with proven reliability and better fuel efficiency,” the two companies say. “This platform provides the very latest in airborne mission management technology while ensuring Canada’s continued leadership in the ASW and ISR domains,” they add.
Ottawa announced the CMMA programme in February 2022, noting its fleet of 15 CP-140s had been procured in 1980 and are scheduled for retirement in 2030. CP-140 is Canada’s designation for Lockheed’s P-3 Orion maritime patrol craft. The type was developed for the US Navy (USN) and remains in service around the world. The USN has retired all of its active duty P-3s, replacing them with Boeing’s P-8 Poseidon, a derivative of the airframer’s 737-800 commercial airliner. Boeing put forward the P-8 as a contender for CMMA shortly after Ottawa announced the programme in 2022.
Until the recent Bombardier announcement, Boeing was the only viable contender for the contract. On 27 March, the Canadian government revealed that no other suitable proposals had been submitted.
“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 [ISR],” the Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) agency said.
“The foundation for the [CMMA] team’s solution is the highly efficient and agile Global 6500 aircraft, the right-sized jet for the CMMA, with next-generation engines, long range, high endurance, and coupled with proven reliability and better fuel efficiency,” the two companies say. “This platform provides the very latest in airborne mission management technology while ensuring Canada’s continued leadership in the ASW and ISR domains,” they add.
Ottawa announced the CMMA programme in February 2022, noting its fleet of 15 CP-140s had been procured in 1980 and are scheduled for retirement in 2030. CP-140 is Canada’s designation for Lockheed’s P-3 Orion maritime patrol craft. The type was developed for the US Navy (USN) and remains in service around the world. The USN has retired all of its active duty P-3s, replacing them with Boeing’s P-8 Poseidon, a derivative of the airframer’s 737-800 commercial airliner. Boeing put forward the P-8 as a contender for CMMA shortly after Ottawa announced the programme in 2022.
Until the recent Bombardier announcement, Boeing was the only viable contender for the contract. On 27 March, the Canadian government revealed that no other suitable proposals had been submitted.
“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 [ISR],” the Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) agency said.
Bombardier is proposing its Global 6500 as a possible contender for the RCAF’s maritime patrol Canada Multi-Mission Aircraft
flightglobal.com
From: Ian Berry, Eastleaze, Swindon, Wilts
Subject: Favourite Postings
Hi Tony,
Without a doubt, mine too was the Far East, namely Singapore. I was stationed at the HQ UK Forces Singapore and worked in the Joint Services Booking Centre running the Commercial Airlines Desk. The HQ was located at Woodlands just next to the Sembawang Dockyard and very close to the Causeway with Malaya. I was single when I arrived out there although engaged. I lived in what was formerly HMS Terror. The whole station was Joint Service and a brilliant experience. The Navy ran the Discip Office, the Messes had either an Army/RAF WO in charge and a Sgt Army/RAF as his deputy and on it went.
The work was brilliant and the social side moreso. We had such a talented Sgt's Mess Committee that some of the events could never be matched. For example we hired a Malaccan Ferry for the night and then bussed/trucked down to the Quay all our own booze, food and Mess Staff and Band! This was the time when the original Bugis Street still existed too and what fantastic free entertainment. Add to this other incredible episodes such as a day on board Concorde flying all around the Middle and Far East. I even did a " bottle run" for the office. In UK that would entail going from N Ireland to Germany and back with a duty free order. In Singapore that entailed me flying down to Gan in the Maldives and staying the night and then back with the order.
I ended up on a lot of Royal Navy ships too and always remember their hospitality. Towards the end of my tour and the Singapore closedown, I flew back to UK to get married and brought my new wife out with me. Even though no more families were allowed at this point, the Movements Mafia and local Joint Service cooperation kicked in. Over a few beers with the Army Families Officer it was agreed I could have an Officers' Married Quarter to occupy rent-free as long as I paid the power bills direct. We even had an Amah! Other rules could not be broken and one being a spouse indulgee could not travel on the same aircraft as the other on duty. The solution - my wife flew back on a VC10 indulgence whilst I flew back on a British Airways 747 the same night. So many happy memories and we were there just last March - gone to reminisce!
Ian
Subject: Favourite Postings
Hi Tony,
Without a doubt, mine too was the Far East, namely Singapore. I was stationed at the HQ UK Forces Singapore and worked in the Joint Services Booking Centre running the Commercial Airlines Desk. The HQ was located at Woodlands just next to the Sembawang Dockyard and very close to the Causeway with Malaya. I was single when I arrived out there although engaged. I lived in what was formerly HMS Terror. The whole station was Joint Service and a brilliant experience. The Navy ran the Discip Office, the Messes had either an Army/RAF WO in charge and a Sgt Army/RAF as his deputy and on it went.
The work was brilliant and the social side moreso. We had such a talented Sgt's Mess Committee that some of the events could never be matched. For example we hired a Malaccan Ferry for the night and then bussed/trucked down to the Quay all our own booze, food and Mess Staff and Band! This was the time when the original Bugis Street still existed too and what fantastic free entertainment. Add to this other incredible episodes such as a day on board Concorde flying all around the Middle and Far East. I even did a " bottle run" for the office. In UK that would entail going from N Ireland to Germany and back with a duty free order. In Singapore that entailed me flying down to Gan in the Maldives and staying the night and then back with the order.
I ended up on a lot of Royal Navy ships too and always remember their hospitality. Towards the end of my tour and the Singapore closedown, I flew back to UK to get married and brought my new wife out with me. Even though no more families were allowed at this point, the Movements Mafia and local Joint Service cooperation kicked in. Over a few beers with the Army Families Officer it was agreed I could have an Officers' Married Quarter to occupy rent-free as long as I paid the power bills direct. We even had an Amah! Other rules could not be broken and one being a spouse indulgee could not travel on the same aircraft as the other on duty. The solution - my wife flew back on a VC10 indulgence whilst I flew back on a British Airways 747 the same night. So many happy memories and we were there just last March - gone to reminisce!
Ian
From: Terry Jackson, St Albans, Herts
Subject: Best Posting
Hi Tony,
Having endured Aden (enjoyed really) between 1960-1962, I was in front of my class at the School of Supply RAF Hereford May 1965 when there was knock on the classroom door. My friend and colleague from SHQ entered. “Who do you know at records “ he asked. “No one” I replied, “why”. “Your posting is through, RAF Western Hill, Penang Island. Pearl of the Orient”.
How lucky can you get. Working with a MAMS Team led by Bill Girdwood and guys like Derek Smith and Bob Turner. Travelling to a site at the top of Penang Hill by Funicular Railway with low humidity at the top and wonderful views across the water towards RAAF Butterworth The job was to move a TPS 34 Radar to the top of Penang Hill in response to a threat to the Malay Peninsular by Indonesia and General Sukarno.
So, a hiring in the Hillside area of Penang. A wonderful housekeeper, Bee, to look after the children. Snake Charmers entertaining young children at birthday parties and of course the Penang Swimming Club. Functions at Minden Barracks where the Royal Green Jackets were in residence. Trishaw races in Georgetown with ‘Baby Love’ by The Supremes playing out of every record shop. Frequent trips to Singapore for sporting events and nights out in Bugis (Boogie)Street. Visitors not in the know would take the street urchins on at noughts and crosses. I never saw a street urchin beaten. Others also not in the know would disappear in a trishaw with a’lady’ of the night?
Wonderful memories. Thank you Royal Air Force.
p.s. I was in the Sergeants' Mess RAAF Butterworth in the early hours of the morning listening to the 1966 World Cup Final. When Germany scored in the 89th minute to equalise, all the Aussies leapt to their feet and cheered. All's well that ends well.
Terry
Subject: Best Posting
Hi Tony,
Having endured Aden (enjoyed really) between 1960-1962, I was in front of my class at the School of Supply RAF Hereford May 1965 when there was knock on the classroom door. My friend and colleague from SHQ entered. “Who do you know at records “ he asked. “No one” I replied, “why”. “Your posting is through, RAF Western Hill, Penang Island. Pearl of the Orient”.
How lucky can you get. Working with a MAMS Team led by Bill Girdwood and guys like Derek Smith and Bob Turner. Travelling to a site at the top of Penang Hill by Funicular Railway with low humidity at the top and wonderful views across the water towards RAAF Butterworth The job was to move a TPS 34 Radar to the top of Penang Hill in response to a threat to the Malay Peninsular by Indonesia and General Sukarno.
So, a hiring in the Hillside area of Penang. A wonderful housekeeper, Bee, to look after the children. Snake Charmers entertaining young children at birthday parties and of course the Penang Swimming Club. Functions at Minden Barracks where the Royal Green Jackets were in residence. Trishaw races in Georgetown with ‘Baby Love’ by The Supremes playing out of every record shop. Frequent trips to Singapore for sporting events and nights out in Bugis (Boogie)Street. Visitors not in the know would take the street urchins on at noughts and crosses. I never saw a street urchin beaten. Others also not in the know would disappear in a trishaw with a’lady’ of the night?
Wonderful memories. Thank you Royal Air Force.
p.s. I was in the Sergeants' Mess RAAF Butterworth in the early hours of the morning listening to the 1966 World Cup Final. When Germany scored in the 89th minute to equalise, all the Aussies leapt to their feet and cheered. All's well that ends well.
Terry
From: H Firth, South Scarle, Notts
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
Thanks for the opportunity to tell you all about my favourite tour, or tours. In a career spanning 39 years I had some fantastic tours, ranging from RAAF Maralinga in 1966 -1967 to RSAF Khamis Mushayt in 1999-2003. In between there were great overseas tours: RAF Gan 1967-68, and then RAF Gan again 1971-1972, RAF Luqa Malta 1973-1976, RAF Akrotiri 1977- 1980, RAF Wildenrath 1985 –1988, RAF Bruggen 1988-1992. UK postings included: Colerne, Stafford (hated it), RAF Thorney Island 1972-1973, RAF Lyneham 3 tours, RAF Brize Norton 2 tours, RAF Northolt 2 tours and RAF Uxbridge. Each and every one of these tours had its own challenges of course but offset against this was the great life stlye and friendships forged in the very best Trade of the RAF.
Included in this list should also be a fantastic detachment as the WO Mover on board MV Keren transiting betwenn ASI and the Falklands. This highly challenging appointment, was served in some very severe conditions. I was certainly blessed with a great career which included me seeing some exceptional places. However, the best for me must be RAF Gan and I would not be surprised if this posting did not feature highly amongst other Movers from the era. Gan was favoured with great weather, fantastic opportunities for sport and as as a single guy, R & R in Singapore and Thailand. So for me RAF Gan would be the best, first as a supplier working on the Bulk Fuel Installation and then on Movements for a second tour.
Regards
H
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
Thanks for the opportunity to tell you all about my favourite tour, or tours. In a career spanning 39 years I had some fantastic tours, ranging from RAAF Maralinga in 1966 -1967 to RSAF Khamis Mushayt in 1999-2003. In between there were great overseas tours: RAF Gan 1967-68, and then RAF Gan again 1971-1972, RAF Luqa Malta 1973-1976, RAF Akrotiri 1977- 1980, RAF Wildenrath 1985 –1988, RAF Bruggen 1988-1992. UK postings included: Colerne, Stafford (hated it), RAF Thorney Island 1972-1973, RAF Lyneham 3 tours, RAF Brize Norton 2 tours, RAF Northolt 2 tours and RAF Uxbridge. Each and every one of these tours had its own challenges of course but offset against this was the great life stlye and friendships forged in the very best Trade of the RAF.
Included in this list should also be a fantastic detachment as the WO Mover on board MV Keren transiting betwenn ASI and the Falklands. This highly challenging appointment, was served in some very severe conditions. I was certainly blessed with a great career which included me seeing some exceptional places. However, the best for me must be RAF Gan and I would not be surprised if this posting did not feature highly amongst other Movers from the era. Gan was favoured with great weather, fantastic opportunities for sport and as as a single guy, R & R in Singapore and Thailand. So for me RAF Gan would be the best, first as a supplier working on the Bulk Fuel Installation and then on Movements for a second tour.
Regards
H
Spartan Proven Ready for More
It was Friday afternoon when the call was made for RAAF Base Amberley-based 35SQN to mobilise and move to RAAF Base Townsville, testing the squadron’s tactical readiness to plan, deploy and fly missions at short notice, for Exercise Ready Spartan Prove.
Loadmasters CPLs Alannah Badger and Jakeb Thorogood had the C-27J Spartan loaded. Pilots FLTLT Matthew Still and FLGOFF Brianna Hawkins, the first of the team, were on their way from RAAF Amberley. Once the Spartan landed at RAAF Base Townsville, its crew were immediately put through a number of scenarios in the aircraft’s light tactical fixed-wing role, with additional simulated threats – increasing in complexity – pushing the crews to plan and complete missions at short notice.
SQNLDR Rob Crawford oversaw the exercise, which included tactical day and night flying, and a first for the Spartan – flying into Cormorant airfield, a grass runway, west of Townsville.“Cormorant is a relatively short and narrow grass airstrip, ideally suited for the C-27J Spartan,” SQNLDR Crawford said. “The airfield was only recently surveyed for Air Mobility Group use and Exercise Ready Spartan Prove provided the first opportunity to land at Cormorant. “We now have another proven landing point of operations in the Townsville field training area to support Army and 383 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron on future exercises.”
It was a fast-moving exercise, with C-27J Spartan pilot FLGOFF Brianna Hawkins challenged but pleased with the seamless integration involving other ADF units, including Townsville-based 383SQN, and a resupply of Army’s 3BDE.“This was a good learning opportunity for all three units to integrate and gain efficiencies for future exercises,” FLGOFF Hawkins said. “The most challenging part of a readiness exercise like this one is staying on the front foot while the plan changes and making sure you can still achieve the mission as the scenario builds and gets more complex.”
This was the seventh iteration of Exercise Ready Spartan Prove, with more planned for the future.
AirForce (RAAF)
Loadmasters CPLs Alannah Badger and Jakeb Thorogood had the C-27J Spartan loaded. Pilots FLTLT Matthew Still and FLGOFF Brianna Hawkins, the first of the team, were on their way from RAAF Amberley. Once the Spartan landed at RAAF Base Townsville, its crew were immediately put through a number of scenarios in the aircraft’s light tactical fixed-wing role, with additional simulated threats – increasing in complexity – pushing the crews to plan and complete missions at short notice.
SQNLDR Rob Crawford oversaw the exercise, which included tactical day and night flying, and a first for the Spartan – flying into Cormorant airfield, a grass runway, west of Townsville.“Cormorant is a relatively short and narrow grass airstrip, ideally suited for the C-27J Spartan,” SQNLDR Crawford said. “The airfield was only recently surveyed for Air Mobility Group use and Exercise Ready Spartan Prove provided the first opportunity to land at Cormorant. “We now have another proven landing point of operations in the Townsville field training area to support Army and 383 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron on future exercises.”
It was a fast-moving exercise, with C-27J Spartan pilot FLGOFF Brianna Hawkins challenged but pleased with the seamless integration involving other ADF units, including Townsville-based 383SQN, and a resupply of Army’s 3BDE.“This was a good learning opportunity for all three units to integrate and gain efficiencies for future exercises,” FLGOFF Hawkins said. “The most challenging part of a readiness exercise like this one is staying on the front foot while the plan changes and making sure you can still achieve the mission as the scenario builds and gets more complex.”
This was the seventh iteration of Exercise Ready Spartan Prove, with more planned for the future.
AirForce (RAAF)
From: Gordon Gray, Powick, Worcs
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
RAF Aldergrove provided job satisfaction with very tight security restrictions but then JSPU Cyprus in contrast with a relaxed lifestyle but countered by an unfortunate tense internal working relationship for two of my three years in Limassol Docks and with 10 Port Squadron RCT at RAF Akrotiri Mole.
Just to explain; it was two years in Northern Ireland (NI) with my family from 1975-77 during the ‘Troubles’. Although being extremely restricting, was enjoyable socially. We had a Families Club in the centre of the Married Quarters patch which was always well patronised. Alternatively, by way of a change the Sergeants' Mess including our dinner nights were always good fun or additionally, the Blue Lantern RAF Police Club of which we had honorary membership. For the greater part of those two years our SAMO boss was a ‘great’ guy, with his delightful wife. The Movements workload was intensive under Operation Banner so there never was a dull moment. We worked hard and played hard.
I even water-skied on Lough Neagh courtesy of our boss’s project and a grant from PSI at the time. The Roulement with British Frces Germany (BFG), mainly Gutersloh, often offered an aircraft seat for a duty-free run to Gutersloh. The Army Air Corps and Odiham Helicopter Detachment got us into the Province's local air space, albeit always personally armed up. My role in Load Control, which was not only an Air Booking Centre, had links with Shorts Belfast for air transporting their Blowpipe missiles. As well as the regular VIPs including NI Ministers flying in and out of Stormont we had visits from various dignitaries and Royalty.
Remembering Roy Mason, who was NI Secretary; during his tenure ‘toing and froing’ from his Yorkshire constituency or RAF Northolt, he designed and produced for our boss the ‘Crabair’ tie. Despite strict security we still managed our various pursuits including regular games of golf at Malone and RAFA competitions at Royal Portrush Golf Club.
In contrast, my JSPU Cyprus move occurring less than 18 months after NI was for two of the three years a tense working experience personally, in internal work relationships. Fortunately, the varied elements of the role encompassing container shipping for Army Unit moves, interaction with local Agents, handling RFA vessels both dockside and at the Mole, with a predominant civilian staff was thoroughly enjoyable. We all, with the exception of one member of our small RAF Movers and Army RCT team of six, had an excellent rapport with each other's Service and that included the 10 Port Squadron staffs operating out of the Mole. The Army BFT runs were often enjoyed by five of us other ranks. However, aside from the work being a thoroughly rewarding experience, Cyprus life and culture has memories we as a family will never forget. Living on Akrotiri base and maintaining links with the Air Movers' and never losing sight of aircraft, all the activities for leisure as well as Mess functions, Band concerts at Curium amphitheatre, skiing on Troodos if good snowfall, all provided a marvellous experience of a very enjoyable overseas Service posting.
Best regards
Gordon
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
RAF Aldergrove provided job satisfaction with very tight security restrictions but then JSPU Cyprus in contrast with a relaxed lifestyle but countered by an unfortunate tense internal working relationship for two of my three years in Limassol Docks and with 10 Port Squadron RCT at RAF Akrotiri Mole.
Just to explain; it was two years in Northern Ireland (NI) with my family from 1975-77 during the ‘Troubles’. Although being extremely restricting, was enjoyable socially. We had a Families Club in the centre of the Married Quarters patch which was always well patronised. Alternatively, by way of a change the Sergeants' Mess including our dinner nights were always good fun or additionally, the Blue Lantern RAF Police Club of which we had honorary membership. For the greater part of those two years our SAMO boss was a ‘great’ guy, with his delightful wife. The Movements workload was intensive under Operation Banner so there never was a dull moment. We worked hard and played hard.
I even water-skied on Lough Neagh courtesy of our boss’s project and a grant from PSI at the time. The Roulement with British Frces Germany (BFG), mainly Gutersloh, often offered an aircraft seat for a duty-free run to Gutersloh. The Army Air Corps and Odiham Helicopter Detachment got us into the Province's local air space, albeit always personally armed up. My role in Load Control, which was not only an Air Booking Centre, had links with Shorts Belfast for air transporting their Blowpipe missiles. As well as the regular VIPs including NI Ministers flying in and out of Stormont we had visits from various dignitaries and Royalty.
Remembering Roy Mason, who was NI Secretary; during his tenure ‘toing and froing’ from his Yorkshire constituency or RAF Northolt, he designed and produced for our boss the ‘Crabair’ tie. Despite strict security we still managed our various pursuits including regular games of golf at Malone and RAFA competitions at Royal Portrush Golf Club.
In contrast, my JSPU Cyprus move occurring less than 18 months after NI was for two of the three years a tense working experience personally, in internal work relationships. Fortunately, the varied elements of the role encompassing container shipping for Army Unit moves, interaction with local Agents, handling RFA vessels both dockside and at the Mole, with a predominant civilian staff was thoroughly enjoyable. We all, with the exception of one member of our small RAF Movers and Army RCT team of six, had an excellent rapport with each other's Service and that included the 10 Port Squadron staffs operating out of the Mole. The Army BFT runs were often enjoyed by five of us other ranks. However, aside from the work being a thoroughly rewarding experience, Cyprus life and culture has memories we as a family will never forget. Living on Akrotiri base and maintaining links with the Air Movers' and never losing sight of aircraft, all the activities for leisure as well as Mess functions, Band concerts at Curium amphitheatre, skiing on Troodos if good snowfall, all provided a marvellous experience of a very enjoyable overseas Service posting.
Best regards
Gordon
From: Paul Thornton, Blyth, Northumberland
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting, and an unique one, was becoming the first SNCO to be posted to Travis AFB in Northern California. Covering the Western half of the USA, plus Hawaii and Alaska it meant a lot of travelling. This was mainly completed through Southwest airlines from Sacramento, but I did drive a few times from Fairfield down to Nellis AFB, 570 miles away. Living there was a joy, visiting all the best spots that California had to offer. From giant trees to desert, from high mountains to the Pacific ocean. Every visitor was taken to Napa valley and glass of wine consumed. Being 8 hrs behind UK a cheeky round of golf could be squeezed in mid afternoon. All in all a fantastic posting.
Cheers!
Paul
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
My favourite posting, and an unique one, was becoming the first SNCO to be posted to Travis AFB in Northern California. Covering the Western half of the USA, plus Hawaii and Alaska it meant a lot of travelling. This was mainly completed through Southwest airlines from Sacramento, but I did drive a few times from Fairfield down to Nellis AFB, 570 miles away. Living there was a joy, visiting all the best spots that California had to offer. From giant trees to desert, from high mountains to the Pacific ocean. Every visitor was taken to Napa valley and glass of wine consumed. Being 8 hrs behind UK a cheeky round of golf could be squeezed in mid afternoon. All in all a fantastic posting.
Cheers!
Paul
From: John Bell, Birmingham
Subject: Favourite Posting
Not an easy subject Tony.
Together with my wife Jean, I had a truly great 40 years in the RAF. My overseas postings were:
Subject: Favourite Posting
Not an easy subject Tony.
Together with my wife Jean, I had a truly great 40 years in the RAF. My overseas postings were:
Kenya 1962 to 65 (15 months at Eastleigh (Nairobi) on Air Movs and 15 at Mombasa) on Sea and Air Movs
Thailand 67/68 six months at Korat on Supply
Tengah 68/70 Supply 2 Years
Kai Tak 74/76 Air Movs 2 ½ Years
Belize 81/84 Supply and Movs 2 ½ Years
Riyadh 92/94 Supply 2 ½ Years
Thailand 67/68 six months at Korat on Supply
Tengah 68/70 Supply 2 Years
Kai Tak 74/76 Air Movs 2 ½ Years
Belize 81/84 Supply and Movs 2 ½ Years
Riyadh 92/94 Supply 2 ½ Years
Each of these postings was different and trying to decide on a favourite is like asking a grandparent which was his favourite grandchild. All postings were accompanied except Thailand. Having said that, I think my time in Kenya was at least one of my favourites. Unlimited use of a PSI landrover enabled us to travel the game parks and flamingo lakes. To see so many animals in their natural environment was wonderful; even getting chased by a short-sighted rhino and sharing a cage with a cheetah, sent to Entebbe airport to collect an aero engine left behind by the Duke of Edinburgh on a royal visit, a couple of duty flights to Zanzibar and shopping trips to Khormaksar to buy a load of prizes for the Sgts Mess Xmas draw (I was a Cpl at the time).
Sent to Mombasa for the second part of my time in Kenya, I worked on shipping and Air Movs. There were only 3 Movers and one RAF policeman in Mombasa. Fg Off Harry Lawson was the boss and Sgt Pete Skidmore my SNCO, I was a Cpl. We would go to our office about 8 am and deal with signals and other messages. If Nairobi was sending down a Beverley one of us would go to the airport and deal with any freight to be moved to the docks or cargo to be backloaded to Eastleigh. Twice a week I would see in the charter flight from Aden that brought servicemen and their families to Mombasa for a week of R&R at the Nyali Leave Centre. Our RAF policeman, Charly Garvey, would attend the arrival of the charter and do the security brief.
Each posting was a marvellous experience, leaving me with wonderful memories.
John
Sent to Mombasa for the second part of my time in Kenya, I worked on shipping and Air Movs. There were only 3 Movers and one RAF policeman in Mombasa. Fg Off Harry Lawson was the boss and Sgt Pete Skidmore my SNCO, I was a Cpl. We would go to our office about 8 am and deal with signals and other messages. If Nairobi was sending down a Beverley one of us would go to the airport and deal with any freight to be moved to the docks or cargo to be backloaded to Eastleigh. Twice a week I would see in the charter flight from Aden that brought servicemen and their families to Mombasa for a week of R&R at the Nyali Leave Centre. Our RAF policeman, Charly Garvey, would attend the arrival of the charter and do the security brief.
Each posting was a marvellous experience, leaving me with wonderful memories.
John
UK Royal Air Force receive final A400M Atlas
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) subsidiary, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), has delivered the 22nd and final A400M Atlas transport aircraft to the UK Royal Air Force (RAF). The aircraft’s arrival at RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire, marks the end of the UK’s order from Airbus, the original equipment manufacturer.
The 22 Atlas aircraft have replaced the C-130J; the UK MoD listed its legacy fleet for sale in October 2022. The withdrawal of the 14-strong C-130J fleet will be a blow to the service’s airlift capability, although the induction of the larger Atlas will offset the loss. The four-engine turboprop aircraft can deliver 37 tonnes of cargo over 2,000 nautical miles at speed. Its short field performance enables it to operate from short unprepared as well as semi-prepared strips, all achievable whilst using night vision goggles.
The MoD faced challenges in the procurement process, which the National Audit Office (NAO) outlined in a report published in November last year. The report detailed concerns that the MoD could not afford to induct more than 22 units. “An option to purchase additional A400M aircraft was assessed as unaffordable. Air Command is developing an affordable choice to improve A400M availability.”
When the UK listed the C-130J fleet for sale at the end of last year, it was amid serious economic decline in the country. Defence equipment sales would offer a way to cut sustainment costs while also generating some funds that could be returned to the ministry for use elsewhere. As the RAF lacks the intended number of units it sought, the NAO’s assertion tells us that we can expect future contracting work to enhance the capabilities of the RAF’s new fleet.
What does the Atlas bring to the table? Besides deploying troops and equipment between theatres, the aircraft has been used to support humanitarian missions. Most recently the aircraft evacuated British nationals from war-torn Sudan.
Since entering RAF service in 2014, the Atlas has performed relief operations in the Caribbean and contributed to the military response to COVID, transporting patients, equipment and vaccines. It played a pivotal role in the evacuation of personnel from Afghanistan and Sudan and has provided support to UK Defence operations around the globe, including the Middle East, Falkland Islands, and Mali.
airforce-technology.com
The 22 Atlas aircraft have replaced the C-130J; the UK MoD listed its legacy fleet for sale in October 2022. The withdrawal of the 14-strong C-130J fleet will be a blow to the service’s airlift capability, although the induction of the larger Atlas will offset the loss. The four-engine turboprop aircraft can deliver 37 tonnes of cargo over 2,000 nautical miles at speed. Its short field performance enables it to operate from short unprepared as well as semi-prepared strips, all achievable whilst using night vision goggles.
The MoD faced challenges in the procurement process, which the National Audit Office (NAO) outlined in a report published in November last year. The report detailed concerns that the MoD could not afford to induct more than 22 units. “An option to purchase additional A400M aircraft was assessed as unaffordable. Air Command is developing an affordable choice to improve A400M availability.”
When the UK listed the C-130J fleet for sale at the end of last year, it was amid serious economic decline in the country. Defence equipment sales would offer a way to cut sustainment costs while also generating some funds that could be returned to the ministry for use elsewhere. As the RAF lacks the intended number of units it sought, the NAO’s assertion tells us that we can expect future contracting work to enhance the capabilities of the RAF’s new fleet.
What does the Atlas bring to the table? Besides deploying troops and equipment between theatres, the aircraft has been used to support humanitarian missions. Most recently the aircraft evacuated British nationals from war-torn Sudan.
Since entering RAF service in 2014, the Atlas has performed relief operations in the Caribbean and contributed to the military response to COVID, transporting patients, equipment and vaccines. It played a pivotal role in the evacuation of personnel from Afghanistan and Sudan and has provided support to UK Defence operations around the globe, including the Middle East, Falkland Islands, and Mali.
airforce-technology.com
From: Alan Potts, Narbonne
Subject: Favourite Postings
Hi Tony,
Not any easy thing to decide after 38 years in uniform. Wherever I served was enjoyable, knowing that usually you would be on the move again in 2 to 3 years it was important to get to know your Station and its environs quickly and become part of the community, and for me part of the basketball team.
I admit to being very fortunate with all my postings, all seemed to happen at the right time for me and my family and mostly to wonderful places. Three overseas tours in Asia; Labuan, Changi and Hong Kong, also 9 months in Cyprus, 3 years in Germany and 4 months in Nepal. However, besides the wonderful locations it was also the people, work colleagues and local friends who made the times special.
The first overseas tour with my family was in 1969 to Singapore where I took over from the illustrious Jim Mackintosh on the trim desk at Changi. Really magical place. RAF Bruggen was also great, worked hard played hard but the favourite and the icing on the cake of my Service career was my 7, yes 7, years in Hong Kong
For me anywhere in Asia has a magic feel about it and Hong Kong was no exception. My posting there in 1990 was the result of many conflicting logistical problems and the attempt by the Army to take control of the Gurkha trooping programme. My original posting was to Nepal but was eventually changed and I arrived in Hong Kong with responsibility for Gurkha trooping, for the provision of flights to meet the requirements of the HQ Hong Kong exercise programme and for the admin flight programme between Hong Kong and Brunei.
Due to the restrictive and limited land area of Hong Kong the Gurkha units all deployed to locations, generally in south east Asia, on more or less a monthly basis. Prior to my arrival all such exercise flight had been undertaken, where possible by the ATF or by locally contracted flights hurriedly arranged by a staff officer from MoD, Sqn Ldr Gil O’Toole, who had been travelling between the UK and Hong Kong for several months. The aging VC10 fleet and limited C130 availability could no longer be relied upon and hence a permanent MoD (RAF) presence, in the form of yours truly, was established in Hong Kong.
Subject: Favourite Postings
Hi Tony,
Not any easy thing to decide after 38 years in uniform. Wherever I served was enjoyable, knowing that usually you would be on the move again in 2 to 3 years it was important to get to know your Station and its environs quickly and become part of the community, and for me part of the basketball team.
I admit to being very fortunate with all my postings, all seemed to happen at the right time for me and my family and mostly to wonderful places. Three overseas tours in Asia; Labuan, Changi and Hong Kong, also 9 months in Cyprus, 3 years in Germany and 4 months in Nepal. However, besides the wonderful locations it was also the people, work colleagues and local friends who made the times special.
The first overseas tour with my family was in 1969 to Singapore where I took over from the illustrious Jim Mackintosh on the trim desk at Changi. Really magical place. RAF Bruggen was also great, worked hard played hard but the favourite and the icing on the cake of my Service career was my 7, yes 7, years in Hong Kong
For me anywhere in Asia has a magic feel about it and Hong Kong was no exception. My posting there in 1990 was the result of many conflicting logistical problems and the attempt by the Army to take control of the Gurkha trooping programme. My original posting was to Nepal but was eventually changed and I arrived in Hong Kong with responsibility for Gurkha trooping, for the provision of flights to meet the requirements of the HQ Hong Kong exercise programme and for the admin flight programme between Hong Kong and Brunei.
Due to the restrictive and limited land area of Hong Kong the Gurkha units all deployed to locations, generally in south east Asia, on more or less a monthly basis. Prior to my arrival all such exercise flight had been undertaken, where possible by the ATF or by locally contracted flights hurriedly arranged by a staff officer from MoD, Sqn Ldr Gil O’Toole, who had been travelling between the UK and Hong Kong for several months. The aging VC10 fleet and limited C130 availability could no longer be relied upon and hence a permanent MoD (RAF) presence, in the form of yours truly, was established in Hong Kong.
The Army and HQ Hong Kong were not happy at this outcome as they had expected MoD (RAF) to hand them the funding and let them get on with it and hence did not offer me an office in the HQ building even though I was on the spot to help them! Due to the good work of the Airport Unit I was found an office (more like a broom cupboard) in Blackdown Barracks. Two years into my tour and the HQ realised I was a benefit to them and I was granted in office alongside the SO2 Mov, David Thompson.
Enough of the explanations. I enjoyed a great time working with experienced guys like Mike Stepney, Chas Cormack and Tony Dunphy and eventually Lee Doherty, all of whom made my life easy and I was made an honorary member of the Unit. Basically, they knew the loads that had to be moved, when and where and we worked out the best aircraft type for the job and I procured it, simple really (not always!).
Hong Kong was such a wonderful base for seeing the rest of Asia and besides my regular work trips to Kathmandu and Brunei my wife and I were fortunate enough to visit most Asian countries as well as Hawaii and Australia.
Even without leaving Hong Kong it was a great place, the food, the events such as the Dragon boat races, Chinese New Year fireworks, enjoying racing at Sha Tin or Happy Valley and of course shopping! I feel blessed that my wife and my 2 daughters were also able to enjoy a great life in Hong Kong. I could go on but suffice to say that after 7 years of living the high life returning to a desk at HQSTC, High Wycombe was a reality check!
Alan
Enough of the explanations. I enjoyed a great time working with experienced guys like Mike Stepney, Chas Cormack and Tony Dunphy and eventually Lee Doherty, all of whom made my life easy and I was made an honorary member of the Unit. Basically, they knew the loads that had to be moved, when and where and we worked out the best aircraft type for the job and I procured it, simple really (not always!).
Hong Kong was such a wonderful base for seeing the rest of Asia and besides my regular work trips to Kathmandu and Brunei my wife and I were fortunate enough to visit most Asian countries as well as Hawaii and Australia.
Even without leaving Hong Kong it was a great place, the food, the events such as the Dragon boat races, Chinese New Year fireworks, enjoying racing at Sha Tin or Happy Valley and of course shopping! I feel blessed that my wife and my 2 daughters were also able to enjoy a great life in Hong Kong. I could go on but suffice to say that after 7 years of living the high life returning to a desk at HQSTC, High Wycombe was a reality check!
Alan
From: Michael Hunter, Portland, ON
Subject: Favourite Posting
Tony,
In my career my favourite had to be my UN tour in Honduras, Central America The direct conditions of having an apartment etc., were obvious, but the work conditions were what mattered. There was one sergeant and me, a corporal. We handled customs and immigration for the Canadian ONUCA contingent. We had a steady flow of C130s as helicopters had to be shipped back to Canada for major maintenance and replaced.
When the contingent was withdrawn early we had to load sea containers and get our vehicles onto ships to get them back to Canada. The responsibilty with no overbearing supervision was appreciated. The other side of life was great. My minimal Spanish picked up and I got see a lot of the area including Costa Rica.
Cheers!
Michael
Subject: Favourite Posting
Tony,
In my career my favourite had to be my UN tour in Honduras, Central America The direct conditions of having an apartment etc., were obvious, but the work conditions were what mattered. There was one sergeant and me, a corporal. We handled customs and immigration for the Canadian ONUCA contingent. We had a steady flow of C130s as helicopters had to be shipped back to Canada for major maintenance and replaced.
When the contingent was withdrawn early we had to load sea containers and get our vehicles onto ships to get them back to Canada. The responsibilty with no overbearing supervision was appreciated. The other side of life was great. My minimal Spanish picked up and I got see a lot of the area including Costa Rica.
Cheers!
Michael
From: Mark Attrill, Tallinn
Subject: Favourite Posting
Dear Tony,
Without a doubt, and mindful that I completed a 3-year tour in Hong Kong and served again overseas continuously from 2005-2021 (including 2 x OOAs in this time), my all time favourite tour was as OC MSF at RAF Coltishall in the mid-1980s. It was the height of the Cold War (Part 1) and I was pretty much given 'free rein' to run the Flight in the way in which I wanted to. I had a great Flight, for most of my tour supported by Mick Day and Paul 'Stretch' Weir who have both sadly passed away in relatively recent times.
We supported all of the Squadron deployments, of which there were many, from Bardufoss to Decimomannu and stretching over to Canada and the United States. Since RAF Coltishall held primary ownership for the Flyaway Packs (FAPs) for the entire Jaguar Force (The RAFG Jaguar Squadrons were, in theory, meant to operate from home base in time of conflict), I had lead responsibility for being the permanent Deployed Mobility Officer for RED FLAG at Nellis and both Tirstrup in Denmark and Bardufoss in Norway. I spent upwards of 7 months a year away from 'Colt' although fortunately most of this was during the autumn/winter exercise season; the summers in Norfolk were brilliant.
Highlights of my tour were many but included a full RED FLAG dissimilar air sortie with the 47 Sqn (S&D) C-130 Crew during which I shared 'airborne observer' duties with MALM Pete Scott, an excellent friend of UKMAMS, and our Jaguar pilot passenger regularly threw up!
As a long-term Las Vegas resident (3+ months) I got a Trans-Am Hire Car and also remember racing a BMW soft-top down the empty runway at Tirstrup at almost a ton after the last jet departed from a rather challenging summer TACEVAL in 1985. As one of the regular detachees, I made a ton of friends among the aircrew community; for some reason the Jaguar pilots did not have the same mentality as their single-seat Harrier and Lightning brethren. I was made an honorary member of 6 Squadron and am still in touch with several of the pilots across the entire Jaguar Wing 'til this day. Sadly we lost one or two during my tour, including my room mate from Initial Officer Training at RAF College Cranwell six years earlier. I could not put my finger on it during my time but 'Colt' was one of those stations with a special 'feel' to it. I visited the unit five years after I left while on a course and the atmosphere had not changed, even if the personalities had. Happy Times indeed.
Cheers
Mark A
Subject: Favourite Posting
Dear Tony,
Without a doubt, and mindful that I completed a 3-year tour in Hong Kong and served again overseas continuously from 2005-2021 (including 2 x OOAs in this time), my all time favourite tour was as OC MSF at RAF Coltishall in the mid-1980s. It was the height of the Cold War (Part 1) and I was pretty much given 'free rein' to run the Flight in the way in which I wanted to. I had a great Flight, for most of my tour supported by Mick Day and Paul 'Stretch' Weir who have both sadly passed away in relatively recent times.
We supported all of the Squadron deployments, of which there were many, from Bardufoss to Decimomannu and stretching over to Canada and the United States. Since RAF Coltishall held primary ownership for the Flyaway Packs (FAPs) for the entire Jaguar Force (The RAFG Jaguar Squadrons were, in theory, meant to operate from home base in time of conflict), I had lead responsibility for being the permanent Deployed Mobility Officer for RED FLAG at Nellis and both Tirstrup in Denmark and Bardufoss in Norway. I spent upwards of 7 months a year away from 'Colt' although fortunately most of this was during the autumn/winter exercise season; the summers in Norfolk were brilliant.
Highlights of my tour were many but included a full RED FLAG dissimilar air sortie with the 47 Sqn (S&D) C-130 Crew during which I shared 'airborne observer' duties with MALM Pete Scott, an excellent friend of UKMAMS, and our Jaguar pilot passenger regularly threw up!
As a long-term Las Vegas resident (3+ months) I got a Trans-Am Hire Car and also remember racing a BMW soft-top down the empty runway at Tirstrup at almost a ton after the last jet departed from a rather challenging summer TACEVAL in 1985. As one of the regular detachees, I made a ton of friends among the aircrew community; for some reason the Jaguar pilots did not have the same mentality as their single-seat Harrier and Lightning brethren. I was made an honorary member of 6 Squadron and am still in touch with several of the pilots across the entire Jaguar Wing 'til this day. Sadly we lost one or two during my tour, including my room mate from Initial Officer Training at RAF College Cranwell six years earlier. I could not put my finger on it during my time but 'Colt' was one of those stations with a special 'feel' to it. I visited the unit five years after I left while on a course and the atmosphere had not changed, even if the personalities had. Happy Times indeed.
Cheers
Mark A
From: Jim Aitken, Sunshine Coast, QLD
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
I initially joined the RAF during National Service days and came out after three years. After a couple of years as a civilian and having met my future wife, we decided that a career in the RAF wasn't a bad idea after all. Cardington again for kitting out and a posting to RAF Lyneham.
I knew that I would be up for an overseas posting, so elected for either Singapore, Hong Kong or Ceylon. My fingers were crossed very tightly because there were many 12-month unaccompanied postings still available, such as Gan, Christmas Island or the dreaded Middle East area. Lucky me, Singapore it was!
I was employed in the Changi Creek Transit Hotel on passenger handling duties under CO Flt Lt Myers and 2 i/c Fg Off Lambert. It was a real breeze with 24 hours on and 48 hours off shifts. There was never much traffic overnight so a meal at the Hotel and a bed if there was a spare unoccupied room was oftentimes the routine!
After such a wonderful time in Singapore and having contracted polio, I was on a casevac flight back to the UK - but's that's a tale for another time.
Best regards to all!
Jim
Subject: Favourite Posting
Hi Tony,
I initially joined the RAF during National Service days and came out after three years. After a couple of years as a civilian and having met my future wife, we decided that a career in the RAF wasn't a bad idea after all. Cardington again for kitting out and a posting to RAF Lyneham.
I knew that I would be up for an overseas posting, so elected for either Singapore, Hong Kong or Ceylon. My fingers were crossed very tightly because there were many 12-month unaccompanied postings still available, such as Gan, Christmas Island or the dreaded Middle East area. Lucky me, Singapore it was!
I was employed in the Changi Creek Transit Hotel on passenger handling duties under CO Flt Lt Myers and 2 i/c Fg Off Lambert. It was a real breeze with 24 hours on and 48 hours off shifts. There was never much traffic overnight so a meal at the Hotel and a bed if there was a spare unoccupied room was oftentimes the routine!
After such a wonderful time in Singapore and having contracted polio, I was on a casevac flight back to the UK - but's that's a tale for another time.
Best regards to all!
Jim
Changi Creek Transit Hotel
From: Ken Usher, Penticton, BC
Subject: Western Traffic Technician and Friends 8-10 September 2023
Good day Tony,
Subject: Western Traffic Technician and Friends 8-10 September 2023
Good day Tony,
Western Traffic Technician and Friends 8-10 September 2023
So here is the new cost breakdown for the 2023 reunion!
A block of hotel rooms has been reserved at the Quality Inn and Suites, 4204 32nd Street, Vernon, BC
20 - Standard 2 Queen Beds, $125/night plus taxes.
5 - Standard 1 King Bed, $125/night plus taxes.
1 - Suites with 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Bed, $155/night plus taxes.
** Please note all prices are based on 2 adults, additional adults will be extra. **
We look forward to hosting your group on September 7, 8, 9, 10, 2023. These rooms will be held under Western Traffic Technician Reunion.
The hotel highlights include:
Complimentary Hot Buffet Breakfast
Heated indoor pool
Complimentary high-speed wireless internet
Discounts of 10-15% at local partner restaurants (Boston Pizza, White Spot, Kelly O'Bryans, and more!)
If you are going to need accommodations make sure you call 250.542.4434 prior to July 31, 2023, after that date all unclaimed rooms will return to general inventory.
* Meet & Greet and Registration is Friday Sept 8th, 2023 starting at 3:00 pm and please wear a RED SHIRT in support of our troops! Cost $10.
* Mike Hagarty Invitational Golf Tournament is Friday, Sept 8th at 10:00 am on the Executive Course. Please advise us if you are interested in signing up for this so we can book the appropriate Tee times. This is a pay as you play event.
* The Golf Tourney is Saturday, Sept 9th, with a 10:00 am shot-gun start. So arrive early and make your way to the assigned starting hole (Teams will be listed/set up Friday at the Meet n Greet). Please feel free to make your own team and dress in a team garb. Prize will be given for “best dressed”/“best theme” team! Cost $40 pp including cart.
* For the Non-Golfers; Lots of wineries, cideries and even a distillery. A few hours at the lake! It’s all up to you!
* Dinner and Auction is Saturday, Sept 9th starting at 3:30 pm. Steak or Chicken option available with all the fixings. Cost $40 pp.
* Final Hurrah is Sunday Sept 10th starting at 3:00 pm at the Dawson’s. Bratwurst and all the fixins’ provided compliments of our Reunion Fund. Bring along the musical instrument of your choice, and join us for an afternoon of song, tall tales & camaraderie!
Please message me on Messenger to confirm your choices!
We are looking forward to seeing one and all!
Cheers and have a great summer everyone!
A block of hotel rooms has been reserved at the Quality Inn and Suites, 4204 32nd Street, Vernon, BC
20 - Standard 2 Queen Beds, $125/night plus taxes.
5 - Standard 1 King Bed, $125/night plus taxes.
1 - Suites with 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Bed, $155/night plus taxes.
** Please note all prices are based on 2 adults, additional adults will be extra. **
We look forward to hosting your group on September 7, 8, 9, 10, 2023. These rooms will be held under Western Traffic Technician Reunion.
The hotel highlights include:
Complimentary Hot Buffet Breakfast
Heated indoor pool
Complimentary high-speed wireless internet
Discounts of 10-15% at local partner restaurants (Boston Pizza, White Spot, Kelly O'Bryans, and more!)
If you are going to need accommodations make sure you call 250.542.4434 prior to July 31, 2023, after that date all unclaimed rooms will return to general inventory.
* Meet & Greet and Registration is Friday Sept 8th, 2023 starting at 3:00 pm and please wear a RED SHIRT in support of our troops! Cost $10.
* Mike Hagarty Invitational Golf Tournament is Friday, Sept 8th at 10:00 am on the Executive Course. Please advise us if you are interested in signing up for this so we can book the appropriate Tee times. This is a pay as you play event.
* The Golf Tourney is Saturday, Sept 9th, with a 10:00 am shot-gun start. So arrive early and make your way to the assigned starting hole (Teams will be listed/set up Friday at the Meet n Greet). Please feel free to make your own team and dress in a team garb. Prize will be given for “best dressed”/“best theme” team! Cost $40 pp including cart.
* For the Non-Golfers; Lots of wineries, cideries and even a distillery. A few hours at the lake! It’s all up to you!
* Dinner and Auction is Saturday, Sept 9th starting at 3:30 pm. Steak or Chicken option available with all the fixings. Cost $40 pp.
* Final Hurrah is Sunday Sept 10th starting at 3:00 pm at the Dawson’s. Bratwurst and all the fixins’ provided compliments of our Reunion Fund. Bring along the musical instrument of your choice, and join us for an afternoon of song, tall tales & camaraderie!
Please message me on Messenger to confirm your choices!
We are looking forward to seeing one and all!
Cheers and have a great summer everyone!
This Newsletter is Dedicated
to the Memories of
"Yorkie" Higgins (RAF)
Gareth Thomas (RAF)
Pat Aitken, wife of Jim Aitken (RAF)
Mida Coolen, wife of Roy Coolen (RCAF)
to the Memories of
"Yorkie" Higgins (RAF)
Gareth Thomas (RAF)
Pat Aitken, wife of Jim Aitken (RAF)
Mida Coolen, wife of Roy Coolen (RCAF)
Tony Gale
ukmamsoba@gmail.com
ukmamsoba@gmail.com