onetoone

ISS

UE

4

20

13

THE RAF CONINGSBY JOURNAL

A LOOK BACK ON CONINGSBY’S AUTUMN INTERNATIONALS

onetoone2 3 ISSUE 4 2013

onetoone4 5CONTENTS ISSUE 4 2013

Stn Cdr’s Foreword Group Captain Johnny Stringer

Editor’s Foreword • Sqn Ldr Thom ColledgeEditorial & Distribution Team

Editor

Sqn Ldr Thom Colledge

Distribution

Lead: Cpl Ian ScottDeputy Lead: SAC Graham DexterDistribution Team:SAC Jez Parkinson-Stuart (LS)SAC Paul White (LS)SAC Jonny Anderson (LS)

Printed By

Lance Print LtdTel: 01480 492183

Publishers

Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering NN16 8NL.Tel: 01536 512624 Fax: 01536 515481 Email: mike@lancepublishing.co.uk www.lancepublishing.co.uk

View Onetoone online atwww.onetooneonline.co.uk

Design

Sherrie Bacarese

Advertising

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

ISSUE 4 2013

EDITING THE CHRISTMAS EDITION OF

ONETOONE IS A FUNNY ONE. ALTHOUGH BY

NOW EVERYONE IS FORWARD

FOCUSED ON THE CHRISTMAS BREAK

AND SOME MUCH NEEDED TIME WITH

FRIENDS AND FAMILY, MOST OF THE CONTENT OF

THE MAGAZINE IS A RETROSPECTIVE ON

WHAT EVERYONE HAS BEEN UP TO SINCE THE LAST

EDITION HIT THE STREETS IN LATE SUMMER/

EARLY AUTUMN.

I continue to be amazed at the output of the station. In the short 3 month period since

I last penned this column we have hosted a major combined air exercise with the Royal Saudi Air Force, built and run a deployed international joint force headquarters, deployed on operations in the Middle East at the drop of a hat plus a whole host of other exciting achievements all captured in the following pages.

As I write these words in the week of XI Squadron’s safe return from Cyprus, it is pleasing to think of all the men and woman heading off for some well earned leave, but it won’t be long before they are all back at work and focusing on the next challenge. At times like these, the importance of a positive outlook on life reminds me of a festive tale. A family I know has twin boys whose only resemblance to each other is in their appearance. In every other way they are completely opposite; one is an eternal optimist, the other a doom and gloom pessimist. In the name of experimentation,

last year on Christmas Day their father loaded the pessimist’s room with every toy and game imaginable. The optimist’s room he filled with horse manure. Later that night the father passed by the pessimist’s room and found him sitting amid his new gifts crying bitterly. “Why are you crying?” the father asked. “Because my friends will be jealous, I’ll have to read all these instructions before I can do anything with this stuff, I’ll constantly need batteries, and my toys will eventually get broken.” answered the pessimist twin. Passing the optimist twin’s room, the father found him dancing for joy in the pile of manure. “What are you so happy about?” he asked. The optimist twin replied, “There’s got to be a pony in here somewhere!”

I sincerely hope that every one has a wonderful holiday and a well deserved rest. If you are fortunate to be sitting at home on Christmas Day animatedly discussing with your loved ones what the best festive film is*, please spare

a thought for the Coningsby folk who are working hard to keep you safe. And finally, please don’t wish too hard for a white Christmas; clearing snow off 9000 feet of runway isn’t anyone’s idea of a merry one.

Thom Colledge 01526 347506

CON-GMB-121Editor@mod.uk

*The answer is Die Hard by the way.

onetoone

x

However, I hope both she and you will allow at least some reflection

on a year that had a bit of everything, including a visibly moved Chris Evans. Overseas deployments to the Middle East and America, and one to Cyprus replaced by the real thing...the most significant RAF/ Royal Saudi Air Force exercise yet conducted at the same time...the Dambusters 70th Anniversary, and Jamie Norris flying the flag for Service, Force, Station, Squadron and UK PLC...a record season for BBMF...success on sports pitches, athletics tracks and horse-riding arenas...EAW duties trained for and assumed...and more visitors than I can remember.

Little wonder then that I think Christmas and some time off will be extremely welcome for all of us and our families: it has been hard- and well-earned and I offer my sincere thanks to everyone for the breadth and depth of achievement. Equally, I am

more convinced than ever that we must challenge those things that hold us back, and own and be responsible for those things that we can. I intend to make this a cornerstone of how we approach all of our business in 2014, from providing support and facilities to our families, through to maximising operational capability from the Coningsby Typhoon Wing and our lodging units. We have already kicked off some work on this and everyone has a contribution to make here. I can’t promise jam today, and some things will not be quick fixes, but I am convinced that there are real, tangible improvements that we can make.

Enough of the exhortations: enjoy the break and time with friends and families, stay off the scales (it’s only depressing and the gym is what January was invented for) and from Lisa, James, Henry and me...have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

“A REPRISE OF THE YEAR? HOW BORING.” AFTER ALMOST 18 YEARS OF MARRIAGE, MRS STRINGER KNOWS HER HUSBAND FAR TOO WELL, AND HAS MOVED WELL BEYOND THE PLACE FOR POLITE IF FALSE ENCOURAGEMENT.

FEATURES

Ex SAUDI BRITISH GREEN FLAG 06Coningsby’s Expeditionary Air Wing 08

SQUADRON NEWS

3(F) Sqn 12XI Sqn 1429(R) Sqn 16

BASE SUPPORT WING

Wing Overview 18What’s on at the HIVE 20Padres Piece 21Helpful House Hints 21

ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING

Winter Driving 24Photographer of the Year 26

OPERATIONS WING

A view from the waterfront 28

PEOPLE & ACHIEVEMENTS

60 Second interview 30Bomber Command Clasp 30Military Wives Choir 30Bonfire Night 33

CHARITY

Ex Reds Coast to Coast cycle ride 34

FORCE DEVELOPMENT

Remembering in Luxembourg 36

SPORT

2013 Sporting Roundup 38

onetoone6 7FEATURES ISSUE 4 2013

RAF Typhoons from the 10th Sqn, based at King Fahad Air  Base, Taif were flown into

the Lincolnshire base alongside Tornados from the 75th Sqn, King Abdul Aziz Air Base, Dhahran. No 3 (Fighter) Squadron supplied the RAF Typhoon element, alongside a composite Tornado GR4 force from RAF Marham. The ten day exercise saw the Saudi and RAF crews fly in a series of training flights of gradually increasing

complexity, during which the crews gained a wider knowledge of how the other force works and also how to use the relative strengths of their aircraft to generate greater overall effects.

INSET PHOTOGRAPH: Two nations working together. Formation of from front, RSAF Typhoon, RAF Typhoon, RSAF Tornado, RAF Tornado.

SAUDI-BRITISH GREEN FLAG

AIRCRAFT, CREWS AND SUPPORTING PERSONNEL FROM THE ROYAL SAUDI AIR FORCE, (RSAF) HAVE BEEN OPERATING ALONGSIDE THEIR ALLIES FROM THE ROYAL AIR FORCE AS EXERCISE SAUDI-BRITISH GREEN FLAG TOOK PLACE AT RAF CONINGSBY IN SEPTEMBER.

�The deployment to the UK was a significant exercise for the Royal Saudi Air Force. The Station Commander, Group Captain Stringer, and other RAF personnel join with Brigadier General Al-Shahrani and RSAF personnel after the arrival of the RSAF Tornados.

�Tornado crews from RAF Marham were part of the exercise. Their aircraft are seen here with Royal Saudi Air Force C130s

�God bless you…

� RSAF and RAF personnel joined together to share a traditional meal provided by 3 MCS, assisted by some Saudi chefs.

“FOR CONINGSBY AND FOR THE RAF THIS IS A HUGELY SIGNIFICANT EXERCISE, AN OPPORTUNITY TO FLY THE SAME AIRCRAFT TYPES WITH OUR RSAF FRIENDS, TO SHARE OUR TACTICAL THINKING ON HOW WE EMPLOY OUR PLATFORMS, AND FOR US AS A STATION TO SUPPORT A DETACHMENT AT SIGNIFICANT RANGE FROM A FELLOW AIR FORCE. AT THE END OF THE EXERCISE WE WILL GET TO THE POINT WHERE SUCCESS FOR US, AND I THINK I CAN SPEAK FOR THE RSAF AS WELL, IS THAT OUR PILOTS, NAVIGATORS, ENGINEERS, FIGHTER CONTROLLERS - ALL OF THE PEOPLE WHO THE RSAF HAS BROUGHT ACROSS THAT WE ARE HOSTING BOTH AT CONINGSBY AND MORE BROADLY IN THE UK - NOT ONLY UNDERSTAND AND KNOW EACH OTHER A LITTLE BIT BETTER, BUT IF WE EVER HAVE TO GO AND FLY AND FIGHT ALONGSIDE EACH OTHER FOR REAL THEN WE WILL HAVE THE CONFIDENCE IN EACH OTHER THAT WE ARE ABLE TO DO THAT.

- Group Captain Johnny Stringer, RAF Coningsby Station Commander

“ONE VERY IMPORTANT OBJECTIVE WE HAVE IS TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR PEOPLE, FROM AIRCREW, TO ENGINEERS, TO STAFF, TO FIGHTER CONTROL AND ALL THE OTHER ROLES, WORK SIDE BY SIDE WITH THE RAF; TO BE READY IF WE EVER NEED

TO OPERATE TOGETHER.

- Brigadier-General Mohammed Al-Shahrani, the RSAF Detachment Commander.

BROADWAY CARPETS & CURTAINS LTD

For all your soft furnishing requirements.

Curtains, Carpets, Wallpaper, Blinds, Awnings, Furniture& Lighting Showroom.All types of wood/luxury vinyl flooring and stockists ofSherborne and Parker Knoll Furniture.Come and visit us on the Broadway, Woodhall Spa.Open: Tues - Fri 9.00 am - 5.30pm

Sat 9.00am - 5.00pm

Matthew Temple House,

The Broadway, Woodhall Spa,

Lincolnshire LN10 6ST

T: 01526 353484 F: 01526 353584

E: broadwaycarpets@btconnect.com

W: broadwaycarpetsandcurtains.co.uk

Richard Sivill Galleryinc Tattershall Engraving

Full framing service. Large selection of open andlimited edition prints including aviation prints.

Passport ID Photos taken.

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

4 High Street, Tattershall. 01526 345388

BUILDERNew Build, Alterations, Extensions

Repairs and Maintenance

Silverdale, 126b Horncastle RoadWoodhall Spa, Lincolnshire LN10 6UX

Tel: 01526 353421

JOHN CHAPMAN

onetoone8 FEATURES ISSUE 4 2013 9

EXERCISE CAPABLE EAGLE

Catering was provided by the excellent 3 Mobile Catering Squadron, who extended their already impressive repertoire to include croissants and pastries to cater for the tastes of our French counterparts. Needless to say, they were greatly appreciated by

all concerned and the standard of the food throughout was consistently outstanding.

The first week in support of JOINT WARRIOR gave the EAW staff time to get their procedures in place, convert empty shells of buildings into functional work spaces and sort out all the inevitable teething problems that accompany the setting up of a new IT and secure telephone system. The IT suite provided the benefit of allowing access to live messaging systems which amongst many other things, allowed Air Tasking Orders to be shared by all exercise participants, display the information as a 24hr flying programme. This was a blessing for the planning staff, saving them a lot of work in providing all participants a clear representation of who was airborne, when their tanking slots were and when they are due back at the airfield. Other messaging systems proved invaluable in keeping in touch with higher command and providing situational awareness of what was happening across the JOINT WARRIOR exercise as a whole. The EAW communications contingent alongside their counterparts at the RAF’s 90 Signals Unit ensured connectivity was maintained throughout, continually providing service with a smile under some very testing conditions.

The first week also enabled the UK EAW staff to get to know their French counterparts. It’s amazing how much school French one can recall when needed. The universal language of sweets and chocolate should not be underestimated when cementing international relations.

The second week saw the start of the validation phase of CAPABLE EAGLE, bringing with it all the testing scenarios one would expect. All rapidly became closely acquainted with the floor of the HQ, due to the regularity of simulated rocket attacks. 8 Force Protection Wing, along with the Role 1 Medical facility, were kept busy dealing with casualties from these attacks along with the incredible number of simulated Road Traffic Collisions that occurred within such a small DOB.

47 Sqn, a UK C-130 unit joined the Deployment on the second week. Two of their missions included deploying paratroopers to Spadeadam and extracting a group of civilians from an oil refinery in Stornaway, that was about to be over-run by the enemy. The EAW were tasked to provide food, shelter and medical support for the refugees on their return.

The 15th of October saw a visit by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford and the French Air Force Chief, Gen Denis Mercier who were keen to see all the aspects of the EAW being put through their paces.

There were many elements involved in the making of the 600 strong team that deployed to Leeming. These including heavy transport units, bomb disposal teams, imagery analysts, medics, RAF Regiment and police to name a few. Had the ‘Host Nation’ been less benign, the numbers would have been swelled by Air Traffic and Fire-fighters in addition. It is essential that each individual element of the deployment pulls together as a team, in order to achieve a successful outcome. Testament to the professionalism of all involved, Exercise CAPABLE EAGLE was a resounding success. Over the course of the two weeks, over 180 missions were flown, meeting or exceeding all of the objectives in support of a major exercise.

On the last evening a joint celebration was held and the French did excel in providing some excellent wine, cheese, meat and bread. The Brits, in turn, introduced the French to the delights of John Smiths. At the end of the evening the French sang a rousing rendition of La Marseillaise. Of course, once the Six Nations Rugby starts it will be drowned out by Swing Low Sweet Chariot. There are some old rivalries that will never die!

SINCE THE BEGINNING OF APRIL 2013, BOTH CONINGSBY AND MARHAM HAVE BEEN WORKING TOGETHER TO SET UP A JOINT EXPEDITIONARY AIR WING. PERSONNEL FROM BOTH STATIONS HAVE BEEN PROGRESSING THEIR WAY THROUGH A SERIES OF EXERCISES, CULMINATING IN EXERCISE CAPABLE EAGLE HELD AT RAF LEEMING FROM THE 5TH TO THE 18TH OF OCTOBER.

The purpose of the Exercise was for the Marham-Coningsby EAW to achieve

validation prior to taking over from the Leuchars-Lossiemouth EAW on the 1st of November this year. To add authenticity to the validation, CAPABLE EAGLE was run in support of Exercise JOINT WARRIOR which, in turn, formed part of the work up of the Combined Joint Expeditionary Force.

The EAW were tasked with setting up a Deployed Operating Base (DOB) from RAF Leeming in support of 1 (Fighter) Typhoon Sqn from RAF Leuchars and a French L’Armee de L’Air Mirage 2000-N. More than 600 UK airmen and women plus 100 French personnel were involved in the Exercise – one of the biggest training events in Europe.

The EAW sent an Advance

Party to Leeming on 17 Sep who, with expert help from the Royal Engineers, erected a tented city which was to be home for over 600 for the duration of the Exercise. Each tent was reasonably homely; equipped with one light, a multi-socket and a heating system, which was invaluable for drying out wet kit as well as keeping warm.

cater for thecounterpartthey were g

support of J

o

y

out was

RUSSELL GREEN Resident ial Care Home for the Elderly

11 Stanhope Avenue, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, LN10 6SP

Set in the beautiful village of Woodhall Spa.With a short level walk to all the village amenities.

24 hour care provided by professionally trained staff

A Home Care Service is also available taking the same standard of care and

commitment out into the local community

For more detailed information visit our website at www.russellgreencarehome.co.uk

Telephone: 01526 352879

Veterinary GroupPROSPECT STREET, HORNCASTLE, LINCOLNSHIRE LN9 5AY

TELEPHONE: (01507) 522236 or (01507) 523365www.banovallumvets.co.uk

SURGERY TIMESHORNCASTLE Monday - Saturday: 8.30 - 9.30am drop in Monday - Friday: 4.00 - 6.30pm by appointment

WOODHALL SPA Monday - Friday: 1.30 - 2.30pm drop in CONINGSBY Monday - Friday: 3.30 - 4.30pm drop in

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE PLEASE TELEPHONEHORNCASTLE 522236 or 523365

Banovallum

Peebles & HiltonO P T O M E T R I S T S

EYE EXAMINATIONS

CONTACT LENS PRACTITIONERS

COMPLETE EYE CARE - NHS & PRIVATE PATIENTS

SUPER RANGE OF QUALITY FRAMES

OWN WORKSHOP AND REPAIR FACILITIES

DAVID HILTON BSc FCOptom SUSAN COWAN BSc FCOptom

16 SILVER STREET CONINGSBY TEL: (01526) 344556

“LYNDON” TAWNEY STREET BOSTON TEL: (01205) 365395

onetoone10 11ISSUE 4 2013

onetoone12 133(F) SQN UPDATE ISSUE 4 2013

3(F) SQNUPDATE

Squadrons from Coningsby that served during the Battle (everyone except XI Sqn) a hugely enjoyable night was had by all until the small hours. The following day the Officers of 3(F) Sqn and one stowaway WAAF, Doris Bader, travelled to London to conduct a force development day using the Battle Of Britain Memorial Walk. Beginning at RAF Uxbridge the walk encompassed various sites of significance and included a total of 6 stands where short presentations were made to reflect on the Battle and draw comparisons to 3(F)Sqn’s contemporary primary role of defending the UK’s airspace.

In September the Squadron held a combined ‘bottom table’ at the White Hart Hotel in Lincoln. Newly promoted Sgt Kieron ‘Mongo’ Taylor hosted the night assisted by SAC(T) Tom Reilly (dressed in a 60’s silver suit) as Mr Vice. Following a superb meal, a game of naming the countries of the Commonwealth was undertaken and after a few laps of the room the pressure was on. Not wanting to lose face in front of his troops Flt Lt James Kingswood, 3(F) Sqn JEngO, provided his final answer of…Germany – nice work. A huge thanks to SAC(T) Ben Wingfield and SAC(T) Ben Pell for organising the event.

Another social high point was an impromptu TACEVAL of the Station Commander at the start of October. Dressed in a wide variety of Halloween outfits entertainment on the night was provided by a firework competition and Flt Lt ‘Simmo’ Simcox dressed as Miley Cyrus – the white underpant, twerking version (nasty).

3(F) welcomed Sqn Ldr Steve Kenworthy from the OCU in September, a former Harrier GR9 instructor and display pilot. We’re looking forward to his endless stories about VIFF, running out of water and birdstrikes. Flt Lt Tris Simkins a former GR4 pilot and OC TTF also joins from 29(R) to bolster the 3(F) Junta ranks. When he isn’t flying Tris runs a small but highly profitable sideline as a slightly chubby Philip Schofield lookalike and has already expressed a strong desire to join the Cheshire Group.

Focus for the RAF’s first operational Typhoon Squadron now moves to the Advanced Tactical Leadership Course (ATLC), a large force exercise in the UAE which will be covered in the next edition. The 5 week deployment will allow the Squadron to practice a large scale deployment of 8 aircraft to what will be a highly enjoyable and challenging exercise. Until next time

– TERTIUS PRIMUS ERIT.

Heavy weapons training was flown in the Aberporth Danger Area located in

Cardigan Bay. Fourteen weapons were dropped utilising GPS, self laser designation and cooperative laser designation attacks achieving fourteen direct hits. This training is invaluable for refreshing live weapon experience for all pilots and is a fundamental part of our capability as a multi-role Squadron.

Finishing the summer on a high, Flt Lt’s Kev Broder, Si Taylor, Gregor Ogston and ‘Grob’ Thomas conducted an Overseas Training Flight to Malbork Airbase in Poland. Landing on Friday afternoon the 4 pilots were joined by CT Ady Walker, Cpl’s Kris Blake and Andy Keighron, SACs Anderson, Smith, Gardner, Rawson and Flt Lt Luke ‘D’JEngO’ Bonnett. A thoroughly enjoyable weekend in Gdansk culminated in four sorties of 1v1 Dissimilar Air Combat Training flown on Monday against the MiG-29, a highly capable adversary which provided exceptionally valuable training for the four pilots.

The next big event that occurred in 3(F)’s busy calendar was Saudi British Green Flag. The Exercise proved to be very successful and ensured that old acquaintances and new friendships were reaffirmed in a tactically relevant exercise. Despite this commitment some excellent work by the 3(F) Sqn engineers ensured that routine Squadron training continued as normal in addition to the standing task of

maintaining aircraft for QRA duties – an excellent achievement.

3(F)’s resident exchange officer, Flt Lt ‘Fiddy’ Nilson continued his European adventures (having attended the Zeltwig Air Show earlier in the summer) by leading a pair of aircraft to the Malta Air Show. Accompanied by Flt Lt Tim Pye and a small engineering team the 3(F) jets proved to be one of the highlights of the show.

On the social front the Squadron supported the Battle of Britain Dining in Night en masse. Given the Squadron’s 101 year history it is unsurprising to find that it had a role to play in the RAF’s finest hour. Joined by the other

THE RAF’S OLDEST FIXED-WING SQUADRON (YES, II(AC) SQN. CHECK

YOUR FACTS) HAS, ONCE AGAIN, BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF LIFE

AT RAF CONINGSBY DURING A BUSY AUTUMN PERIOD. SINCE

THE LAST EDITION, 3(F) SQN HAVE PARTICIPATED IN HEAVY WEAPONS

TRAINING, SAUDI BRITISH GREEN FLAG (SBGF), OVERSEAS TRAINING

WITH THE POLISH AIR FORCE, THE MALTESE AIRSHOW AND A

NUMBER OF SOCIAL EVENTS.

A family run award winning traditional pub/restaurant, serving good home cooked food with a large selection

of 15 cask and keg ales (CAMRA Good Beer Guide 20012/13) 3.5 miles from Coningsby.

Families, children and dogs welcome. The bar has an open coal fire ensuring a warm friendly convivial atmosphere in which to enjoy your meal with friend,

family or that special person. Free Wi-Fi available too.

Food is served Tuesday to Sunday between noon and 2pm and 6pm - 9pm

Sunday Lunch available noon - 2pmAll year round a great place to eat and drink!

(Always advisable to book - Telephone 01526 354560)

Our best wishes to youall for a happy 2014

Dates for your diary (booking required for each event)

For details on all our events,email reception@petwood.co.uk to join our mailing list.

We look forward to welcoming you

1st JanuaryNew Year’s Day Brunchwith live entertainment,

11am-2pm, £20pp

New Year’s Day Afternoon Tea, 3pm-5.30pm £10.50pp

14th & 15th FebruaryValentine’s Dinner, £35pp

Sunday 30th MarchMothering Sunday Lunch,

£22.50pp

onetoone14 15XI SQN ISSUE 4 2013

Instead, the Royal Air Force’s premier Typhoon Squadron were deployed to sunny Cyprus on Op LUMINOUS

leaving our lucky comrades from 3(F) Squadron to pick up double Q for us. We’ve also had 6 people depart from the glorious XI Squadron, including a boss and an IntO, but with the addition of 4 new pilots and the return of Sqn Ldr Al Allsop from the South Atlantic.

XI Squadron hosted its annual ladies guest night at Branston Hall. Organised in toto by Flt Lt Owen ‘Thompo’ Thompson, the evening saw a much delayed dining out for Sqn Ldr Matt ‘D’Aubs’ D’Aubyn and a pre-emptive one for Wg Cdr Rich ‘Wellsa’ Wells. We also saw Flt Lt Dan ‘Daisy’ Hayes, Flt Lt Thompson and Flt Lt James ‘Pearcie’ Pearce declared as Combat Ready after a busy first few months with XI Squadron. A superb evening was had by all due to a very accommodating host with a flowing bar, although a few

people were mildly disappointed when a piano duel fell through after a double booking of pianists.

As the dust settled over the weekend following the dining in night, few would have expected to be in Cyprus the following week. As the news of Chemical Weapon use in Syria flooded the newspapers, XI Squadron returned to work with eager anticipation. Sure enough, the call was received and on the 29th of August all hands went to action stations. After cancelling 29(R) Squadron’s holiday in the Mediterranean, we hijacked their trail plans and deployed 6 aircraft and a number of personnel, including 12 pilots, to RAF Akrotiri in record time. After getting the engineers out to Cyprus shortly after the aircraft arrived, XI Squadron was ready to do whatever was required.

XI Squadron settled into a routine of Q in 40 degree heat with no air

conditioning! It wasn’t particularly comfortable but the wake boarding club at the snugs beach out there did their best to cool us all down. Once training flying was cleared in Cyprus, the pilots started to rack up the hours due to a Tanker being airborne everyday. With 3(F) Squadron not yet at ATLC, Cyprus became the place to be for XI Squadron to fly full stop! HMS Dragon also saw her 6 month tour extended by several months in the Mediterranean for Op LUMINOUS and were keen to work with XI Squadron. As a result, pilots saw several air-maritime integration sorties which culminated in HMS Dragon hosting a few XI Squadron personnel for a tour of the ship and most importantly, the Officers’ Ward Room!

On the 24th September, Wg Cdr Wells had his last flight and handed over the XI Squadron baton to Wg Cdr Chris ‘Laydo’ Layden who joins us from his year of Staff College at RAF Shrivenham. For

XI SQN UPDATE

conditioning! It wasn’t particularly comfortable but the wake boarding

October, XI Squadron saw some more good flying out in Cyprus providing Close Air Support training with ground troops and even more maritime training with our French friends in the Chevalier Paul frigate. The routine of flying and Q continued while XI Squadron, as part of 121 Expeditionary Air Wing, saw several senior visits including the Typhoon Force Commander Air Cdre Gary Waterfall, the Joint Force Air Component Commander Air Cdre Phil Beach and Commander Joint Operations Lieutenant-General David Capewell. At the time of print however, XI Squadron are expecting to come home at the end of November to enjoy a few weeks of regular training flying in the run up to Christmas and the pilots’ lunch.

Unfortunately XI Squadron has lost a few people. Firstly we said goodbye to Flt Lt Mark ‘Schlongy’ Long who heads to 29(R) Squadron to train some more talent for XI. We wish him the best over on the other side and look forward to seeing him on Q! Flt Lt Giles ‘Crofty’ Croft has also disappeared into the depths of 22 Gp on the Hawk T2 at RAF Valley. We shall miss him at Coningsby but we’re sure he will be a huge contribution to IV(R) Squadron. We also lose Major Derek ‘Ajax’ Syswerda our American exchange officer. He has been sent back across the pond to become an instructor on the USAFs latest fighter aircraft the Joint Strike Fighter. We shall miss the American banter on Squadron and we can only apologise to the

USAF for introducing him to alcohol and cigarettes! Flt Lt Andrea ‘Spy’ Holt has gone to RAF High Wycombe and taken her recce briefs with her. How are we supposed to remember British Racing Dream Machines now?! Our devoted OpsO Flt Lt Stuart ‘Stu’ Hicken has gone to Al Udeid leaving us to learn very very quickly how to write a flying programme. How did you make it so effortless Stu?! Finally we lost our OC, Wg Cdr Wells, to a desk in RAF High Wycombe. You will be missed Sir, try not to get too ground happy!

Despite our loses, we gained 4 new pilots. Capt Curtis ‘Cyprus’ Switzer replaces Ajax as the American exchange officer. Flt Lt Mark ‘Suggs’ Sugden and Flt Lt Scott ‘no-yes’ Noyes join us after 5 long years at RAF Valley on the Hawk. Finally, fresh off of the QWI course, Flt Lt Martin ‘Marti’ Geraghty joins us who is already enjoying ‘the quiet life’ on XI Squadron. All should be combat ready before Christmas so hopefully an XI Squadron patch can be included under the Christmas tree!

The next few months should see XI Squadron settling into its normal training rhythm. Not forgetting the highlight of January though, a Middle Eastern training exercise, where XI should see some live drops and a bit more winter sun. Let’s hope we find a bit of time for a social………

OCIORES ACRIORESQUE AQUILIS

AFTER AN EVENTFUL SUMMER, XI SQUADRON WAS LOOKING FORWARD TO IT’S TIME RUNNING UP TO CHRISTMAS. WE HAD THE DELIGHTS OF EX JOINT WARRIOR TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE BEAUTIFUL VALE OF YORK ALONG WITH OUR OWN EXERCISE DOUBLE DIAMOND IN DECEMBER.

onetoone16 1729(R) SQN UPDATE ISSUE 4 2013

As with any change of scenery, morale rocketed and the Sqn was on a high.

It was during this time that we said goodbye to Opcon 20 and we wish you all the best. As a result of that course’s careful deliberation, Nick Graham sets a new record for the longest consecutive run of B*****d Pot awards. Congratulations Nick!

In early September we sent Pockers and Killa (combined age: 96) to fly the flag and re-enforce our presence on the tiny peninsula of Gibraltar and partake in the Battle of Britain celebrations. Their safety pilots for the journey were Flt Sgt Barker and Sgt Coots. The 29 team were also there as part of the renaming ceremony for the headquarter building for RAF Gibraltar. The building had recently been renamed after a famous French pilot who managed to flee to the UK, through Gibraltar. Once back in the UK he continued his fight in the war flying Spitfires for the RAF.

In October a small group of 29 personnel enjoyed some AT on the beautiful island of Ascension. During their sub-aqua adventures they managed to write themselves into the history books by not only catching one of the largest Hawksbill turtles on record, but also by helping to fit the second ever GPS tracker to such a turtle!

A special mention must also be made to congratulate the engineering team, headed up by Flt Sgt York and Flt Sgt Proctor, for their labour of love getting the 29 Sqn Gate Guard into its current glorious state. Although the Lightning has been on display for a little while now, it has nonetheless recently been awarded with a Station Commander’s Commendation. Congratulations to all involved.

As part of the ever increasing student turnover we welcome Opcon 22, comprising Steve Moore, Wally (not to be confused with simulator Wally), Wildy, and finally Yoshi, our American Marine. Finally a steady flow of Abo’s instead of crusty old re-treads. We are also joined by Opcon 23; Jamie Lenox, Tori, James Milmine and Will Ricketts. Welcome to you too.

With one course arriving we must inevitably congratulate another. Opcon 21 recently graduated, sending Yorkie Beevers and Scott Noyes to XI Sqn whilst Bondy joins 3 Sqn. After finally finishing the course we welcome Sqn Ldr Batu, Aka ‘Tils’, as our newest Flt Cdr. It is with the arrival of our new OC B that we must say goodbye to Sqn Ldr Ewen Robertson who departs the Sqn to continue the good work at Warton. We wish yourself and the family all the best as you make your way closer to your motherland.

As Wg Cdr Pemberton’s time in charge of 29 Sqn draws to a close, he, along with a select team, recently spent the weekend in Austria furthering Anglo-Austrian relations whilst gaining an insight into how one of the other Typhoon nations run their Sqn. He took with him the XO, to carry his bags, Stuka, Ben W-B, Mike Mason, and 8 engineers under the guidance of Flt Sgt York. On an aside, for those few he is yet to tell, Mike is soon to pack his bags and fishing rod and depart to Australia on exchange flying F-18s. Also making the journey to Austria were Strats’ pants, which by the looks of it had some pretty good chat. Rumour has it that the pants took them both home that night. It has been a strong finish to the year and we look to continue the good run long into the next. Who knows, next year we may finally get to Cyprus! Merry Christmas!

29(R) SQNIT HAS BEEN A BUSY PERIOD FOR 29. THE SQN HAS GRADUATED 2 COURSES, SAID GOODBYE TO SEVERAL OF ITS STAFF, WELCOMED SOME MORE, AND OF COURSE, GOT WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE OF CYPRUS. HOWEVER, ALL WAS NOT LOST, AND WHILE XI SQN SUNNED THEMSELVES ON THE BEACH, 29 DEPARTED CONINGSBY TO OPERATE FROM RAF WADDINGTON.

Amongst the 100 top performing

schools based on sustained

improvement in Level 4+ each

year from 2009 - 2012

100% of children made the

Governments required 2

levels progress in 2012

Good Church of England Primary SchoolHigh standards of behaviour

Small classes,

high percentage of Teaching Assistants,

many out of school activities,

good links with the community.

Enquiries and visits welcome.

01507 568304www.mareham.lincs.sch.uk

Breakfast Club available from8am every day

At Tattershall Primary School we work in close partnership with parents and carers to help all children achieve their full potential in a happy and caring learning environment. We set high expectations for learning and behavior and continually strive to raise standards through providing a relevant, varied and stimulating curriculum.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed.

Please contact the administrator Mrs A Porter or the headteacher Mrs Janette Davey who will be pleased to show you around the school and answer your queries.

TattershallPrimary School

Tattershall, Lincoln LN4 4QZTel/Fax: 01526 342045

Email: enquiries@tattershallprimary.lincs.sch.ukHeadteacher: Mrs Janette Davey

Kirkby on BainChurch of England Primary School

Learning together for life

At Kirkby on Bain Church of England Primary School, children are nurtured and inspired, within a safe and happy

environment, to become well-rounded independent learners who are academically and socially prepared for the future.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed at any time

Wharf Lane, Kirkby on Bain, Woodhall Spa LN10 6YW

01526 352715 • www.kobps.lincs.sch.uk

“Kirkby on Bain is a happy, inclusive and deeply caring school... The school, through its

distinctive Christian character, is outstanding at meeting the needs of all learners.”

(Church Schools Inspection, July 2012)

The Frithville andNew York Federation

Executive Headteacher: Mr P BarghPlease take a look at our two wonderful village schools!

Our VisionAttitude, Belief and Commitment are the ABC of our Federation.

We care, we hope, we respect, we create.Together as a community we learn!

Frithville Primary SchoolFrithville, Boston,

Lincolnshire, PE22 7EXTelephone and fax: 01205 750291

E-mail: enquiries@frithville.lincs.sch.ukwww.frithville.lincs.sch.uk

New York Primary School New York, Langrick Road,

Lincs LN4 4XHTelephone/fax 01205 280320

E-mail: Lisa.Hawkins@newyork.lincs.sch.ukwww.newyork.lincs.sch.uk

onetoone18 19

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR CONTINGENT OPERATIONS?

The Marham Coningsby Expeditionary Air Wing stood up on 1 November 2013 under the leadership of Stn Cdr RAF Coningsby and from the outset BSW personnel played an integral and important part in the planning and coordination.  With people as our most important asset, it is vital that we get our job right!  Firstly, we need the right mix of people and that includes ranks, trades/branches, competencies and experience.  Secondly, we need to ensure they are trained and prepared for their roles.  Finally, we need to ensure they are adequately provided for and supported when called upon, either in an Exercise environment or on Operations. 

With the constant changing demands on our people, our Operational Establishment Table (OET) (the list of people and skills needed from both Stations to meet the EAW commitment) changes by the day; as therefore do the associated preparation and training requirements for those people.  All those on the OET are held at high readiness so if called upon they must be ready to move within a very few

days.  It is therefore essential that our people remain fully prepared to avoid any delays to the deployment which could adversely impact operations.

This is where BSW come in.  Passports, driving licenses, fitness testing, medical and dental checks plus vaccinations, common core skills training, individual contingency readiness training and weapon handling tests must be in date whilst personal details including next of kin and emergency contact details must be up to date.  All of this preparation must be fitted in around the routine business of BSW as well as the primary duties of all 80 RAF Coningsby EAW personnel. Flexibility therefore is the key to ensuring that the Station can continue to maintain its Force Elements @ Readiness posture.  

BASE SUPPORT WING ISSUE 4 2013

JRS HAVE THEIR SAY WITH THE NEW JUNIOR RANKS COMMITTEE (JRC)

The newly established Junior Ranks‘ Committee (JRC) aims to provide the JRs with a coherent voice, sprinkled with a bit of muscle so that they own what functions happen in their bar and also what food choices they have in their mess.  This is nothing new for Sgts and Officers but for JRs this is a complete step change and a shift into the 21st century, whilst seizing the opportunity to get the most out of the CRL partnership. 

The JRC might be at the embryonic stage but the initial meetings have sparked enthusiasm, vision and future plans; the first being the JRs’ Christmas Cocktail Party.  Gone is the traditional Living In Christmas ‘sprout throwing’ Dinner in the JR Mess as the JRC are proposing a Cocktail party with Christmas themed canapés and cocktails on 12 Dec 13 in the Typhoon Bar and Heroes.  Another step change is that the function will be open to all JRs and provide the opportunity to get dressed up for a function that will not be too dissimilar to Sgts’ and Officers’ Mess Christmas draws.  Sadly the greatest challenge facing the JRC is ‘hard cash’ as JRs do not have the luxury of generating money in the same way that messes can; however, a number of options are currently being explored with the Stn and CRL – so watch this space!

As you read this the JRC are planning and preparing a comprehensive entertainments package coupled with regular theme nights in the mess but the largest venture over the course of the next 6 months will be the transformation of the Typhoon Bar.  With the full support of the Stn and CRL, the JRC hope to change what is currently a dark and dismal bar area into a multi-functional inviting environment that JRs will want to use and chill out in.    

The future is very exciting; we have a JRC which has a vision and is currently planning to make this vision come to life and supporting them in the process is the Stn and CRL.

BASE SUPPORT WING OVERVIEWIF RAF CONINGSBY IS ABOUT AIRCRAFT, EQUIPMENT AND PEOPLE, THEN BASE SUPPORT WING IS VERY MUCH AT THE FOREFRONT OF SUPPORTING THE LATTER. IN THIS EDITION WE DESCRIBE THE RANGE OF WORK THAT HAS BEEN GOING ON IN BSW IN SUPPORT OF THOSE WHO SERVE AT RAF CONINGSBY AS WELL AS THE FAMILIES THAT SUPPORT THEM.

Never is there a greater need to support our people and their families than during operations

and as the RAF moves from deployed ops onto a contingent footing, exercises such as the recent CAPABLE EAGLE in support of the contingent Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW) ensure that we are all working to the same operational end.

When the EAW is called upon to deploy, either on exercise or for real, we have 2 sets of people to look after.  Our ‘home team’ caters for, and supports, the needs of our families and those left behind and the ‘away team’ is responsible for looking after

those deployed.  When deployed the role of my staff is just as broad as back at base, albeit more complex.  We continue to deliver routine personnel services, along with arguably one of our most important roles - dealing with compassionate and welfare cases, whilst also managing personnel movements, the accommodation plot, flight bookings, arrivals briefs, soft facilities management, infrastructure issues, disciplinary casework and, close to everyone’s hearts, the provision of welfare and fitness training and equipment.  This is just a flavour of the diverse work we do.

FORMAL RECOGNITION FOR RAF CONINGSBY HIGH FLIERS

RAF Coningsby personnel are deployed across the Globe 365 days a year in support of operations. In recognition of the effort and sacrifice made by both

our Service personnel and civilian colleagues, we have a prestigious Honours and Awards system to ensure that those most deserving are fully recognised.  This ranges from personnel deployed overseas on operations, to those who have

served with loyalty and distinction throughout lengthy careers, or those who have served above and beyond the call of duty either in the workplace or in their local community.  RAF Coningsby is blessed with dedicated and hard working people and accordingly we are proud to have a significant number of honours and awards to present to our personnel each year.  

Starting 2013 with a considerable backlog, legacy of a tremendously busy 2011 and 2012 on Operations ELLAMY and OLYMPICS, the BSW team have worked hard this year to clear the backlog as well as ensure that awards are received in a timely fashion and in a manner befitting of the recipient’s achievements.  Accordingly, BSW have held 6 Honours and Awards ceremonies in 2013 at which the Force Commander and Station Commander have between them presented 124 medals

and 23 commendations.  These range from Operational to Meritorious Service Medals, and Commendations awarded by the Stn Commander and Air Officer Commanding Number 1 Group.

The last ceremony of the year is scheduled for 5 December 2013. However, the team still have a large number to award and already have 10 ceremonies scheduled for 2014.  Each ceremony is held in the Officers’ Mess and the families of recipients are invited to attend along with work colleagues and bosses.  The nature of each award is explained and each recipient receives their award in person from the presenting officer and following the formal ceremony refreshments are served for all attendees.  All details of future ceremonies are available on the General Duties Team page of MOSS or you can contact the Station Adjutant or her Administrative Office for details.

WE’RE ALL GOING ON A SUMMER HOLIDAY

BSW are pleased to announce that RAF Coningsby will soon take delivery of its very own motorhome thanks to a grant from the RAF Central Fund, additional funding from our Local Initiative Grant and much hard work and effort by the Community Support Team (CST).

The upshot of all of this has been the purchase of a brand new Elddis Autoquest 180 which will be available for RAF Coningsby personnel to hire from early 2014.  This 6-berth motorhome can be driven by personnel aged over 25 years who hold a full car licence and so should prove attractive to a wide audience of families and friends.  As well as all the basics, the vehicle will also benefit from cabin air conditioning, cruise control, a 4 place bike rack and a TV and DVD player. 

The RAF Coningsby CST placed the initial bid for the grant from the Central Fund in Summer 2013 and since then the bid was approved and a committee formed under the leadership of FS Ridley (Safety Cell) and CT Hartley (MSC) to take the project forward. Expect to see some advertisement soon and be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. Prices are expected to range from £290-390 per week.

If you have any ideas for other projects that could benefit RAF Coningsby personnel and which could be paid for by an RAF Central Fund grant, please contact either OC PMS, Sqn Ldr Warner, or the SCSO, WO Jenkins.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME…

You’ve got to be fit to fight, whether that fight is at 39,000 feet or just 3 feet above sea level. Physical training is a fundamental part of Service life and being fit to fight is also about being well educated on the best ways to train and achieve your goals. It is not all about being ‘beasted’ into shape; it is about pushing personal stamina and capability, but not breaking people in the process! That is what the Station Physical Education Flight is here to do – to provide training and education.

Having recently welcomed several new members of the team, namely Sgt Rob Gale, Cpl Andy McMahon and Cpl Sadie Williams, the Physical Education Flight has started to deliver a more diverse programme of training and education as part of the new PEd timetable. That includes more frequent circuit sessions that are spread out across the week and scheduled to cater for day and night shift personnel, and yet more to come as new ‘core strength and stability’ sessions will appear in the timetable in the New Year. Keep an eye out for announcements.

The support of squadron sports and fitness reps has been immense and generated significant increases in fitness testing and pass rates. In October alone the PEd Flt tested over 30% of the Station population yet still ran a full programme of daytime and evening sports and fitness sessions. There is much work going on behind the scenes as the PEd Flight is working to improve the existing gyms, including the Typhoon Aircrew Conditioning Area and the Health and Fitness Suite, by rationalising all of the equipment and sharing it out across the Station. The aim is to distribute more equipment across more floor space to maximise the numbers of people who can take part in physical training. On the teaching side ‘survival training’ will be returning to the main gymnasium and it will be delivered by qualified members of PEd Flt using a new parachute training rig. New Adventurous Training (AT) equipment has

been purchased and will go into a new AT store. With 3 AT instructors now based at RAF Coningsby the Station is well placed to make the most of arduous and experimental activities to train and develop people to be fit for ops.

PEd Flt will be making the very best use of existing facilities and working to continuously improve services, so if you want more details about taking part in formal and informal physical training, education and development at RAF Coningsby please speak to Sgt Gale and his team in the Station Gymnasium. That’s the shape of things to come for PEd and PT here at Coningsby: more choice, more options, more people, more often!

A NEW FACILITY AND A NAME REMEMBERED - THE FRAZER LODGE

With a fair wind and dry concrete, by the time this edition of One-to-One hits the streets the Station will be well on the way to having a new facility. The Frazer Lodge is being built next to the existing pavilion near to the sports pitches. The Lodge will be a small but welcome addition to the Station’s infrastructure, and will facilitate a variety of uses. For example:

• Post sporting fixture recreation, somewhere warm and dry to celebrate or commiserate.

• For the use of the wider Station community – for example ‘Gym Tots’.

• A facility for Air Training Cadets/Combined Cadet Force on Summer camps

The need for the Lodge was identified by the Station Training Officer; Flight Lieutenant Chris Williams. The scheme was then taken up by OC SSS, Squadron Leader Nikki Duncan, who sourced funding for

the project in partnership with one of our contractors, Lend Lease. Lend Lease are the contractors on Station currently building the new SLAM accommodation. The Station is paying for the material for the Lodge with Lend Lease supplying the materials for the foundation and hard-standing. Lend Lease are also providing the building expertise to complete the work, along with volunteers from the Station, coordinated by Flt Lt Williams, to assist with the labour. The work was due to begin in November.

The Lodge has been named to remember Flying Officer Robert Frazer DFC, who was killed in action on his 63rd operation, flying from RAF Coningsby in April 1944. Post war, his name was inscribed on the Honours Board in the foyer of SHQ, but due to an error he was recorded as ‘R Iraler’. As the Lodge will be open for the Spring season around the 70th anniversary of his death, and as an opportunity to remember one of our own who was in a way ‘forgotten’, the decision was made to name the building, ‘The Frazer Lodge’ in his memory.

onetoone20 21BASE SUPPORT WING ISSUE 4 2013

TRAVELLING ROUND THE STATION IN OCTOBER I WAS GREETED WITH THE NEWS THAT THERE WERE ONLY TWO PAY CHEQUES UNTIL CHRISTMAS.

This completely new thought on the approaching season gave me pause to think.

The “built in” response that I found myself thinking was that Christmas is much more than spending money and gifts. However in the harder times that many of us live in now there are thoughts that are almost alien to us: we can’t afford to do that this year, we can’t manage a present like that.

Christmas is about a gift but one which relates directly to us now, a father gave his son to the world. A

gift that almost certainly involved heartache, probably tears, and no little cost to the giver. Giving is never without cost.

Any parent will eventually be able to recount the story of letting go of a child to allow them to make their own way in the world.

What could I put under the tree that might make a difference for more than just Christmas this year? The TV remote (so others can choose)? A night’s family ironing (every week)? A cherished memory in a photo frame? Nights out as “named driver” (or nights in as baby sitter)?

Blessings for a Happy Christmas

CHRISTMAS SERVICES AT RAF CONINGSBY1st December - 1000 Christingle 18th December - 1600 Station Carols

(at SHQ)24th December -1500 Crib Service - 2300 Midnight Mass25th December - 1000 Family Service

D uring the winter and particularly over the festive season when you may

be leaving your Service Families Accommodation (or private family home) empty there are a few things to consider:

PREPARE - Test your heating and report any faults to the MHS helpdesk on 0800 707 6000 (For Bardney Occupants call 0800 027 2057)PREVENT - Consider leaving your heating on permanently and turning down to

a low setting when out or at night (never below 15°C) Isolate and empty outside tapsPROTECT - If you are going away leave the heating on constant and set the thermostat to a minimum 15°CTurn all your radiator valves on to full and leave internal doors openTurn your water off at the stopcockPATCH MATES -If you are away leave spare keys and contact details with a trusted friend or neighbour and ask them to check the house and report any problems

CONTACT NUMBERS

Station Contact Number 01526 342581

Duty Personnel

Guardroom 24 hours: 01526 347212 / 347411

PSF duty clerk /orderly officer Via Main Guardroom 01526 347212

Chaplaincy01526 347346 / 347533 / 347208Duty Chaplain: 0777 5946573

Station Medical CentreOut of HoursNHS direct

01526 3472170845 045 0281111

SSAFA Support Worker 01526 347846 / 347193 / 07775 948269

SSAFA Out of Hours 0207 463 9358

Modern Housing Solutions (MHS)Coningsby / Tattershall / Horncastle / Sleaford SFAACIS – Bardney SFAHCR maintenance – Substitute SFA

0800 707 60000800 027 2057

01256 313764

Security

Police

RAF Police - 01526 347588Lincolnshire Police - 101Lincs Beat Manager - 07500 920076In an emergency dial - 999

Community Support Personnel

Service Families Accommodation (SFA) Fault reporting

THIS WINTER PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY AND HOMEHIVE INFORMATION SERVICE

The RAF HIVE Service supports the Chain of Command and tri-Service community through the provision of up to date and relevant information.

RAF HIVE Information Officers are able to provide an extensive range of information on relocation, local facilities, schools and further education, housing, healthcare facilities, employment and training opportunities. Information on future relocations is one of the key areas of information support and is available either in advance or on arrival at the receiving unit. RAF HIVE staffs are also involved in providing Operational deployment support, including distributing deployment support resources and providing information on ways of communicating with deployed personnel.Contact details:Station HIVE 01526 347868Coningsby HIVE 01526 342679

SSAFA SSAFA provides a confidential

service to the RAF community, dealing with issues including:

Relationship difficultiesBereavement and lossChildcareHousingSeparationSpecial needsBenevolent Fund applications

Contact details: Office: 01526 347846 / 347193Mob: 0777 594 8269Out of hours: 0207 463 9358SSAFA VolunteerCo-ord: 0776 899 6738

SERVICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT OFFICER

The role of the Service Community Support Officer (SCSO) is to assist in the provision of ‘first line’ support to Service personnel and their families, including acting as an interface between SFA Occupants and the Housing authorities, coordinating stress management events in line with current policy, and ensuring that

the interests of the single living-in community are addressed.Contact details: 01526 347211Mob: 07919 301832

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

The role of the Community Development Officer (CDO) is to promote a sense of community and general well being for personnel and families of people living and working at RAF Coningsby through:

• Networking and supporting access and development of community provision

• Ensuring community provision is complying with best practice and government guidelines

• Managing the Airplay project and the Youth Engagement Team

Contact details: 01526 347865Mob: 07799 273033

THE LOUNGEThe Lounge is a modern

‘living area’ for livers-in (all ranks) at Coningsby and is situated above Heroes Bar. A non-alcoholic facility, The Lounge has a staffed Coffee Bar, wide screen TV, Playstation 3, Wii, games and Wi-Fi. Open weekdays 1130—1330

The Lounge is run by volunteers in the evenings so opening times may vary. See doors for times. Bring Your Own Lunch!! Add a delicious hot or cold drink from the menu and enjoy a relaxed comfortable lunch break.

RAF CONINGSBY NURSERY & KIDS CLUB

Registered to provide services for 50 weeks of the year, closing for two weeks over Christmas. Providing nursery education funded places for children aged 2—4 yrs for 38 weeks of the year, following the local schools term times.Clinton Park, Tattershall, LN4 4QZ. 01526 344325www.nurseryandkidsclub.co.uk info@nurseryandkidsclub.co.uk

RAF Coningsby Nursery and Kids Club

COMMUNITY CENTRE DIARY CLINTON PARK, TATTERSHALL

Monday Tiny Typhoons 0930 – 1130Wednesday Tales & Tunes 0930 – 1045 Wednesday Youth Clubs 8 - 12 yrs 1730 – 1900 12 - 15 yrs 1930 – 2100Thursday Rainbows 1800 – 1915 Thursday Pilates 1915 – 2015Thursday Zumba 2015 – 2100Friday Community Support Clinic 0930 – 1130Friday Tiny Typhoons 0930 – 1130Mon, Wed - Fri Cupcake Café 0930 – 1230

COMMUNITY CLINICS

Solicitors Office Tuesday Clinton Park 0900 – 1200 Community Centre Wednesday 0900 – 1200

Solicitors Clinic Wednesdays Station HIVE 1200 – 1300 RAF Coningsby

Mortgage Clinic Last Tuesday monthly Station HIVE 1200 – 1330 RAF Coningsby RBL Clinic: Friday Clinton Park 0930 – 1130 Community Centre

Community Fridays Clinton ParkSupport Team Clinic 0930 – 1130 Community Centre

COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM BOARD

Chair - Wg Cdr BeerOC PMS - Sqn Ldr Warner Station Medical Officer - Wg Cdr DaviesStation Chaplaincy - Padres Elliott, Kennard & HallAir Cadet Liaison Officer - CT RussellOC PSF - Flt Lt Jim SchofieldStation Training Officer - Flt Lt Chris WilliamsService Community Support Officer - WO Al JenkinsYouth Activities Liaison Officer - Flt Lt GarlandCommunity Development Officer - Lou HendersonHIVE Information Officers - Tina Proctor & Ann ParkinsonSSAFA Personal & Family Support Worker - Jean Pattenden &

Dan ParkinsonDIO Housing Officer - Kate Ellis

HIVEINFORMATION

CONTACT: Coningsby HIVE01526 347868 / 342679

CON-BSWHiveHIO1@mod.uk RAFConingsbyHIVE@btconnect.com

RAFConingsbyHIVEConingsby HIVE01526 347868 / 342679

CON-BSWHiveHIO1@mod.uk RAFConingsbyHIVE@btconnect.com

RAFConingsbyHIVE

PADRE MARK KENNARD

PADRE’S PIECE

LOOKING FOR A VENUE? The food and beverage team at

The National Golf CentreAre able to cater for

Private Parties, Weddings, Balls & Dinner Parties in our

Beautiful Hotchkin Suite Seating up to 125 for a dinner dance

Or 150 for a formal dinnerFor smaller parties we can cater for

Your requirements in theClubhouse Dining Room

We also cater for conferences& business seminars.

Our bar is fully licensed until 1amFor a brochure and further information

Please call Denise on 01526 351825e-mail: d.rayward@woodhallspagolf.com

onetoone22 23ISSUE 4 2013

38 High Street,Coningsby, Lincoln,

LN4 4RA01526 34545601526 345355

CONINGSBY POST OFFICE carries Euros and US Dollars on demand, with other currencies on

preorder by 1pm for next day collection. We also now have PASSPORT FORMS and carry out a CHECKING

SERVICE for them. THE BOOKSHOP has a wide range of titles but

will order others in if requested to. Can be in stock the next day.

We also take in SHOE REPAIRS as an agent for LOCKS + LEATHERS OF HORNCASTLE.

They are quick and professional.

TelevisionsLaptops

ComputersSpares and Parts

Repairs & Servicing

* Standard Delivery in UK is Royal Mail UK 1st Class Recorded. For International items standard RM delivery is Royal Mail International Signed For.

Visit us online today! www.sivillservice.co.uk

S ivill Service. WEEE recycling & handling specialists. Experts in

the sales, repair & Servicing of LCD TVs, Plasma screens, Laptops, Desktop computers

CALL 01526 344102Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm

FREE DELIVERY ON ALL UK ORDERS*

@Sivillservice

Sivill Service

• Great value for money• High quality service• High quality products

FREAL

12 MONTH

WARRANTY

& other electrical goods. Individual tailored quotes for repairs & servicing. Great value services and sales all carrying a warranty!

We stock spares for all major brands of laptops, computers and TVs. These spares and parts are sold on a global scale to both the public and trade. If you are looking for spares, parts, repairs, servicing or general sales of electrical goods then look no further.

20a Market Place Tattershall Lincolnshire LN4 4LJ Telephone: 01526 344102

To arrange a visit or to apply for a place in September 2014, contact Mr Chris Liston (Head of Boarding)

The Priory Academy LSST, Cross O’Cliff Hill, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN5 8PW

Telephone: 01522 889977 l Email: boarding@prioryacademies.co.uk l Visit: www.prioryacademies.co.uk/boarding

Sixth Form boarding at one of England’s top State schools

The Robert de Cheney Boarding House is situated in the grounds of The Priory Academy LSST, an academy in Lincoln which is consistently among the top five performing non-selective State schools in the country. It provides a wonderful opportunity for Sixth Form students to develop and flourish, both academically and socially.

• Academy and Sixth Form rated outstanding by Ofsted

• 99% A-Level pass rate (three subjects) and 99% GCSE pass rate (5+ A*-C, including English and Maths)

• 94% first or second choice university success rate in 2013, with 34% of Y13 students obtaining places in the Russell and 1994 Groups

• Modern, home-from-home boarding comprising 60 single en-suite study bedrooms with internet access

• Kitchen, dining area and laundry plus a Common Room on each floor

• Designated Sixth Form support and pastoral staff to ease the transition from school to university, employment and independence

• State-of-the-art Sixth Form science facility, with research laboratories, a planetarium and a debating chamber

• Spectacular sports provision including a 60m indoor sprint track and a 400m synthetic outdoor running track, plus excellent field athletics facilities

• Swimming pool, fitness suite, climbing wall, spinning suite, dance studio and badminton courts

• Stunning residential centre in Normandy• Thriving CCF, DofE and pastoral programmes

onetoone24 25ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING ISSUE 4 2013

A GUIDE TO WINTER DRIVINGTHE BRITISH WINTER IS UNPREDICTABLE. SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS CAN ARISE WHEN LEAST EXPECTED AND CAN BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS IF YOU’RE ON THE ROAD.

Driving is a risky business at the best of times- 9 people die on UK roads every day, so

hazards such as darkness, rain, fog, ice and dazzling sunshine only add to the danger.

If you must drive, make sure you are prepared for the conditions:

• Only drive if it’s absolutely necessary and don’t be afraid to turn back if you think the conditions are too treacherous.

• Make sure your windows are completely clear before you start driving.

• If you’re driving to meet someone, let them know where you are travelling and when you expect to arrive.

• You may need to leave as much as 10 times the normal recommended gap between you and the car in front.

• If you do encounter a skid. Steer into it- for example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right. Do not take your hands off the steering wheel or stamp your foot on the brakes.

• Controls such as brakes, as well as the steering, accelerator and even gear changing should be operated both smoothly and slowly.

• A higher gear may be more appropriate to aid the tyres gripping when moving off on packed ice.

WEATHER CONDITIONS Certain precautions need to be

taken when driving in different weathers:• RAIN: Potentially dangerous, Spray off vehicles, standing water, Aquaplaning, Use dipped headlights and reduce your speed.

• HAIL: Unpredictable, can cause absolute blindness to drivers, normally advisable to pull over and wait, Always use dipped headlights, slow down and increase your stopping distance, Beware of the road conditions after the storm has passed.

• FOG: More frequently in winter, density may vary, freezing fog is extremely dangerous, reduce your speed, use dipped headlights and Fog lights (100m), take extra caution at junctions.

• SNOW, LARGE WET FLAKES: Slow down and corner gently, Use the same tracks and beware of the snow compacting.• SNOW, POWDERY SNOW: Initially blows over the road surface, very quickly fills gaps in road surface, can become sheet ice, drive with extreme caution.

• SNOW, SLUSH: Beware on dry strips of road they can be just as slippery, changing lanes can become hazardous, maintain a slow speed especially when driving over ridges of slush.• SNOW, ICE: Normally the result of overnight temperature drops, most dangerous at the thawing out stage, Black ice is an invisible danger, treat all your controls delicately, avoid braking on corners.• STRONG WINDS: Beware of exposed roads, Try not to move from shelter and overtake in cross winds, unladen vehicles with large surface areas are most at risk, bad cases can cause the vehicle to wander or even be lifted.• WINTER SUN: Set lower in the sky in winter, causes a dazzling glare, glasses and sun visors are a must, avoid looking directly into the sun, The effect can be made worse by wet roads, reduce your speed.

OP BLACKTOP SNOW & ICE VEHICLES

RAF Coningsby MT is responsible for the snow clearing and ice prevention by pre-treating the Main ASP and surrounding areas. MT use two main vehicles in order to maintain the runways:

LIQUID AIRFIELD DE-ICER SPRAYER

The Liquid Airfield De-icer Sprayer (LADS) has been procured to effectively and accurately apply liquid chemical de-icer to their airfields. It is self propelled, equipped with the capacity of 10,000 litres and will be fitted with a hydraulically

controlled airport snowplough. The vehicle is fitted with a spray system that can deliver a metered amount of fluid de-icer media of between 20 to 40 gm/m2 over widths of 3m,12m and 24m.

Anti-icing is the application of chemicals that not only de-ice, but also remain on a surface and continue to delay the reformation of ice for approximately 6 hours depending on temperature and prevents adhesion of ice to make mechanical removal easier.

AIRFIELD SNOW CLEARANCE VEHICLE

The Airfield snow clearance vehicle (ASCV) has been procured to ensure military runways and aircraft operating areas are clear of snow. It is fitted with a 5600 mm airport snow plough. Between the axles is a 914 mm dia x 4200 mm long broom with a max speed of 900 rpm, adjustable and road speed related. At the rear of the machine high speed jet blowers are fitted which can produce a max appropriate velocity of 500 kmh. This jet sweeper was developed as a high-performance device for the rapid disposal of snow on airfields. Clearing, sweeping and blowing as a compact unit in one vehicle means high mobility and high clearance performance.

If you are driving within the camp area and see any Snow and Ice Vehicles, please allow them plenty of room. They are carrying out essential Station tasking to keep the airfield and surrounding areas clear and safe.

Abbey School of Motoring

Longest established Driving School in

Coningsby, Horncastle and Woodhall Spa

Phone: 01526 353550 • 0778 4648 426 Email: abbeysom@btinternet.com

Tim Stebbings

Diploma in Driver Education

Competitive prices with discounts for block bookings

Friendly, patient tuition

Birthday Gift Vouchers

D&M T WING

MAXXIS TYRES-LIFETIME GUARANTEE EXHAUSTS

SERVICING BRAKES PERFORMANCE PARTS

POLISHES OILS ONE STOP MOTORIST SHOP

OPEN MON - SAT 9 - 6SUNDAY 10 - 5

NORTHGATE, SLEAFORD01529 415550

CANWICK HILL, LINCOLN 01522 533665

SERVICING FOR £55 PLUS PARTS

Member of the Good Garage Scheme

MOT FROM £35.00 AT CANWICK BRANCH

onetoone26 27ENGINEERING & LOGISTICS WING ISSUE 4 2013

CONINGSBY PHOTOGRAPHER WINS RAF PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

SAC GRAHAM TAYLOR HAS BEEN

ANNOUNCED AS RAF

PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR DURING

THE ANNUAL CELEBRATIONS

HELD AT THE RAF CLUB IN LONDON. CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF, AIR CHIEF

MARSHAL SIR ANDREW PULFORD

PRESENTED HIM WITH HIS AWARD.

�Portrait of SAC Taylor

� It does what it says on the tin

� Night Guardian

S AC Taylor: “It was a massive shock to win this award, but at the same time rewarding, to have

your work recognised”.

SAC Taylor has been an RAF photographer for four years. He said “It is my job to identify what is interesting or relevant in a scene and to then find the best way to convey that to an audience.”

His winning portfolio included a shot of a Spitfire taken just after start up, flames erupting from the exhaust stubs, “This is a shot that I have wanted to capture ever since I arrived here. The Spitfire is renowned as a thing of beauty, but I wanted to capture what the name represents, a fire-breathing war machine.”PHOTO: It does what it says on the tin

His image of a Typhoon at night during a deployment to the Middle East. “I wanted to demonstrate that we are a 24 hour force. I used a time-lapse technique to contrast the stillness of the aircraft with the activity behind it. The stars also produced a lovely effect.”PHOTO: Night Guardian

The rules of the competition mean that one non-service photo has to be submitted, “This was a friend’s motorbike. The bike is called a Devil Daytona, so I used the light to produce a piece that had an ominous quality to it.”PHOTO: Devil Daytona

SAC Taylor’s final piece is a desert landscape. An obvious but important part of the job of an RAF photographer is to produce imagery that explains the role the RAF undertakes, “This Typhoon was captured against a desert sunset on exercise. This picture is about the aircraft in an environment, rather than just the aircraft itself.”PHOTO: Typhoon Sunset

The RAF Coningsby Photo section entered a number of high quality submissions in addition to SAC Taylor’s winning quartet, a small selection of which are featured here and throughout the magazine.

� Typhoon Sunset

� Devil Daytona

AJB MOTORS

ELECTRONIC FAULT DIAGNOSIS USING THE LATEST SOFTWARE FOR ABS, AIRBAG AND ENGINE

MANAGEMENT FAULTS

• GENERAL SERVICING AND REPAIRS

• CLUTCHES SUPPLIED AND FITTED

• MOT PREPARATION

• AIR CONDITIONING RECHARGING AND SERVICING

For further information please telephone:

01526 354 333 or 07979 942 952Moorland Service Station,Horncastle Rd, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6UX

32 years Vauxhall Main Dealer92 years old, a family business you can rely on!Always 80 Network Q Used Vauxhall cars in stock WWW.TWELLS.CO.UK

We will collect and redeliver your car from your base

Masterfit Service Centre LIMITED OFFER:-

Quality Tyres from only £34.99

Quality Batteries fromonly £29.99

exhausts from only £49.99

pads fromonly £49.99

for accident repairs, paintless dent removal. upholstery repairs. enhancement and valeting

Vauxhall Approved BodyshopAlways call Twells FIRST

TWELLS

TEL: 01526 86000049-51 High Street, Billinghay

Open 6 Days a week for Drive-In Drive-Out

service

We usually come out as good on price- but our quality is superior

Service & MOT from

£99.00

MOT’s now ONLY £34.95

Spend £100 or more with our service department

and When you bring this advert with you.

Massive New Car Discounts and/or 0% APR FinancePlans available to HM FORCES

Finney’s GarageCar Maintenance

Langrick Road, Coningsby,Lincs LN4 4RUt: 01526 342665finneysgarage@hotmail.co.uk

• MOT £37.50• Servicing available• Competitive rates on tyres• Small body repairs

undertaken in our new up-to-date spray booth

• Classic and kit car friendly• Full diagnosis service

available• Follow us on Facebook at

Facebook.com/finneysgarage

Feel free to ring for a quote

www.finneysgarage.co.uk

onetoone28 29OPERATIONS WING ISSUE 4 2013

A successful visit from the ‘trappers’ under the belt, the attention of the wing turned

squarely on to the preparation to host our Saudi friends who were due to arrive at the end of August for an intensive 2 week exercise. Whilst most of the attention was focused on the Tornados and Typhoons they were bringing, Ops Wing were quietly chipping away at the facilitation of a stream of up to four Saudi C130s arriving and departing every day in the run up all requiring customs and immigration, flight planning and navigation services, loading and unloading. Even though they fall

under the auspices of Eng & Logs Wg, respect must be paid to the Movements Flight. They were easy winners of the Most Tired Looking Section at Coningsby award for much of September yet remained heroic throughout.

Over the same period the wing has had individuals deployed all over the place including, Bastion ATC, FOB JUNO, the Falklands, Exercise PASHTUN JAGUAR, Cyprus, the Leuchars Air Show, Exercise CAPABLE EAGLE, Exercise CHAMELEON, Exercise JOINT WARRIOR and Exercise LIGHTNING FORCE which just goes to illustrate the variety of work the wing is undertaking.

In amongst all this ‘routine’ business was the excitement of deploying the Typhoon force to Akrotiri in response to some Syrian aggression at the end of August just as Exercise SAUDI BRITISH GREEN FLAG was getting underway. Whilst the Wing HQ was heavily involved in the planning of the operation, a number of wing personnel deployed in support, most notably one of ATC’s civilian assistants, Mr Colin Wylie, who detached to Akrotiri last-minute to train runway caravan controllers for the arrival of the Typhoon detachment. The devil is always in the detail.

The Fire Section finally received a long overdue uplift in manning, seeing 5 new LAC’s  and 2 CPL’s arrive

on section to replace some of the manpower lost over the summer. They arrived not a moment too soon as the section upped its capability from Crash Cat 3A using 6 crew members to Crash Cat 4A using 10 crew members making up 2 crews doing 24 hr shifts each for the month of September to enable Exercise GREEN FLAG. In addition, section personnel were deployed in 3 crews of 4-5 fire-fighters to Moreton-in-the-Marsh for Incident Response Unit training in the build up to Op Fodient, the military provision of civil fire and rescue services during the National Fire Service strike anticipated in September. The training covered civil specialisations such as Mass Decontamination and Hazardous Material training. After they had received the training, Coningsby personnel were deployed RAF Leeming, Cosford and Dale Barracks on standby for the period of Industrial Action.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight rounded off another successful season with the Lincolnshire Lancaster Association day on the 29th of September. Attended by over 3000 people, the event saw all the flight’s aircraft take to the sky in an impressive celebration of history that we are extremely privileged to have on our doorstep.

The wing continues to lead the way with sporting achievements including representative target rifle shooting, swimming, boxing, football, mountain biking, running plus a host of station team players especially in football which appears to be dominated by Ops Wing. If only crashing MOSS was a competitive sport; I’m sure we would be champions at that too.

THE VIEW FROM THE

ALBERT EINSTEIN ONCE SAID THAT THE ONLY REASON TIME EXISTS IS SO THAT EVERY THING DOESN’T HAPPEN ALL AT ONCE. AT CONINGSBY, IT SOMETIMES JUST FEELS LIKE EVERYTHING DOES, ESPECIALLY WITH THE AMOUNT THE WING HAS ACHIEVED OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS.

� OC Ops Wg getting stuck into some Saudi cuisine.

shtioTbcaaiaau

onetoone30 31PEOPLE & ACHIEVEMENTS ISSUE 4 2013

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? Queuing at Anfield after school to get a Football ticket for my father so he could go & watch the game. WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU COULD GIVE SOMEONE?  Follow your instincts.

WHAT’S ON YOUR DESK?  A load of paperwork & a cold cup of tea.

WHO’S YOUR WORK OR PERSONAL HERO/HEROINE?  When you have stood beside any veteran it is a humbling experience. They are all heroes to us.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PERFECT DAY AWAY FROM WORK?  Completing a DIY task correctly.

WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST WORK ACHIEVEMENT?  Attaining the rank of WO in the trade of MT Driver.

WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT?  Going back to RAF St Athan as a Driving Instructor after nearly being chopped very early on in my career. My Instructor couldn’t believe his eyes.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE GADGET?  House Key

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE OR MOTTO?  Lest we forget

WHAT’S THE WORST QUALITY IN A LEADER?  Bullish behaviour

WHAT WAS THE WORST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN? You should retire at 55.

WHAT WAS YOUR BEST MEETING EVER (AND WHY)? Numerous Royals, but meeting Clive Rowley when he was OC BBMF was a turning point for me & being welcomed onto ‘The Flight’.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PASTIME/RELAXATION ACTIVITY? Model making. I plan to build another model railway in the not too distant future.

WHAT’S YOUR ALL TIME FAVOURITE BOOK (AND WHY)?  Red Watch by Neil Wallington. His son is currently going through 29 (R) Sqn OCU.

NAME ONE PERSON YOU’D LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH (AND WHY)?  Anybody who eats as slow as me, I love dining experiences.

TELL US ABOUT A TURNING POINT IN YOUR CAREER Going to Horncastle Job Centre in Jan 04 shortly after completing 37 years service & being told they couldn’t find a job for me & did I know anybody at CGY who could help me find one. Thanks to Angie Walsh & the other Civilian Admin ladies, I was offered a temporary position in Works Services before being offered my present role at BBMF.

WHAT WAS YOUR WORST JOB?  MT Officer at Mount Pleasant Airfield in the Falkland Islands in 2000/01. Far too many road traffic incidents; all down to bad driving practice.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?  The interaction with the whole team & members of the public, I get a tremendous buzz out of showing people around the Flight.

WHAT WAS YOUR WORST MISTAKE (AND WHAT DID YOU LEARN)?  Thinking I could out walk our Border Collie (I can’t).

WHAT’S THE QUESTION YOU’D MOST LIKE TO HAVE BEEN ASKED (AND WHY)? What’s it like when Parky’s on leave.

60 SECOND INTERVIEW

JIM STEWART, BBMF STALWART, MODEL

TRAIN ENTHUSIAST AND WORLD’S NICEST MAN. THE MEMORIAL FLIGHT

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT KEEPS THE SECRET OF HOW TO TAME A SPITFIRE PILOT FIRMLY UNDER WRAPS IN

HIS 60 SECOND INTERVIEW.

O n Friday the 4th Oct WO D Nicholson (ret’d) visited RAF Coningsby. He was

accompanied by members of 36 (Hetton-Le-Hole) Sqn ATC. WO Nicholson served as member of 44 Rhodesia Sqn and took part in many Lancaster raids over Germany.

On arrival he was given a tour of 3(F) Sqn, to see the sharp end of the RAF today before being given the opportunity to revisit his past at BBMF. After a tour of BBMF and a reminisce over the Lancaster, the Station Commander awarded him his Bomber Command Clasp.

WWII VETERAN AWARDED BOMBER COMMAND CLASP

became the Coningsby ‘Roses’ Military Wives Choir.

RAF personnel deploy frequently throughout the world and it would not be possible to do this without the support provided by families of Servicemen. The pressures put on Service families can be enormous, as for months on end they become single parent families usually hundreds of miles away from their own roots, and dealing with emotional loneliness and isolation. Through singing, the Coningsby ‘Roses’ MWC lend mutual help and support to each other, providing a sense of belonging and camaraderie that would be immediately familiar to their serving partners. The MWC Foundation motto is ‘supporting the women who support our troops’, and fun seems very much the order of the day, the choir borrowing the Service ethic of ‘work hard, play hard’.

The Choir has about 25 members who meet twice a week to practice (as well as socialise, drink tea and eat cake). A choir is not a choir however until it performs, and the girls perform regularly around the county, lending their services for charity and public events, providing a strong bond and awareness between RAF Coningsby and the local community. Since July, the Choir’s Musical Director has been Audrey Wheeler. Audrey is a singer/songwriter who studied music in college and was classically trained as a young girl. Being a choir member has helped Audrey battle her longstanding issues with agoraphobia and Bipolar

Affective Disorder, demonstrating the therapeutic nature of song.When you join the choir as a singer you will be placed in a group according to your vocal range, either soprano (not the ‘gangsta’ kind), mezzo-soprano, or alto. For some women thinking of joining the choir, entering such a bubbly bunch of ‘sisters’ could be daunting, so at this stage I think I would like to introduce just a few of them.

Angela Sowden, currently the choir chairperson, sings an understated but sweet soprano, which she uses to her full advantage in her solo pieces in ‘Stronger Together’, which is a firm choir favourite. As confidence increases, the opportunity to take the spotlight opens, so you could end up singing solo on one of your favourite songs, like soloists Sally Forder and Stephanie Eustace. Sally most often sings the solo on their ‘signature song’, ‘the Rose’. She brings her wonderful blend of warmth and gentleness to the song, and indeed, to the whole choir. Like many RAF ‘partners’, Sally lives away from the unit so making friends was difficult until the choir provided a vital link into the RAF community. Steph joined the choir when her husband was posted to Coningsby in August and helps as a vocal coach and provider of baked goodies for the choir. She performs one of the solo parts in ‘Rule the World’, to which she brings her astounding range and power.

Other sopranos include Emma Riley, a wonderfully pure singer. She performs the tricky soprano solos in Les Misérables ‘On My Own’, which she does with a heart breaking humility and depth of feeling. Her battle with stage fright brings an added depth to an already emotionally laden song, and has grown enormously as a performer with the encouragement of her choir sisters. Sonia MacArthur sings in her gorgeous musical Scottish lilt. She joined the choir a few months ago from Islay, on the West Scottish coast, where she sang in a Gaelic choir. Not a WAG like the other choristers, former serving Tornado mechanic, Hayley Fyfe has music in her blood. She her tricky soprano solo in ‘Wherever You Are’ with accuracy and beautiful emotion. The pressure of singing such a well-known and tricky solo never affects her performance, and she never lets her audience down.

Mezzo-soprano, Yvonne Bates, is well known locally for her work in local theatre and charity work for SSAFA. She sings the War Songs (Vera Lynn) solo with great emotion, and great diction, using her stage training and excellent stage presence to its fullest.Adding power to the songs, are altos Bianca Frost, Sarah Rodgers. Bianca has a phenomenal range and power in her voice, but prefers to sing alto. She sings the solo in the War Songs (Vera Lynn) Medley, in which she lets her personality shine through and brings her own blend of fun, enjoyment and power to the song. Sarah sings a quiet but pure alto with musical experience (you have been rumbled Sarah). Her solo in the choirs’ cover of Take That’s ‘Rule The World’ is a wonderfully simple, understated performance, where her lovely pure notes shine through.

Most recently the choir performed at the British Legion Poppy Appeal Launch at East Kirby Aviation Centre, where the choir performed for 30 minutes to over 200 people (and had nearly the whole audience

singing along to the Vera Lynn melody), and at the Boston Festival of Remembrance, where they supported the Boston Choral Society performing five songs, one of which the choirs combined for, which was a magical experience. Other events the choir have performed at have been at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Horncastle in support of SSAFA, turning on the Boston Christmas lights and Tattershall Christmas lights, a charity fundraiser at Heroes Bar, alongside the RAF Digby MWC at the Sleaford Festival, the Armed Forces Day at Boston, Help for Heroes Bear-A-Q and at the Boston LIVES First Responders Funday. They are even planning ‘flash mobs’ in Lincoln where they will ‘spontaneously’ perform.

Musical experience is not necessary to join the choir; you could be a highly experienced singer or X-Factor dropout and still find a place. We teach you to read music, we help you develop your skills, and you don’t even have to audition! The only qualities you need are those as a military wife (fiancée, girlfriend, daughter) you will already have in abundance, a ‘can do’ attitude (or ‘will try’ at least), a willingness to get out and make new friends, and a love of music and fun. The girls meet twice a week at the RAF Coningsby Church, on Monday and again on Wednesday, at 1830 for two hours of socialising and singing. They prove time and time again that, as one of their signature songs say, they are indeed, Stronger Together.

The Coningsby Roses MWC can be contacted on coningsby@militarywiveschoirs.org for booking requests or for other information. The next new intake night is in early January, and details of this and of other new intake nights and events can be found via their facebook page - ConingsbyMilitaryWivesChoir.

CONINGSBY ROSES MILITARY WIVES CHOIRIF YOU ARE WALKING PAST THE CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT AT RAF CONINGSBY IN THE EVENING, AND YOU HAPPEN TO HEAR ANGELIC VOICES FROM WITHIN, PLEASE DO NOT BE ALARMED. YOU ARE NOT WITNESS TO DIVINE OR SUPERNATURAL EVENTS, THE AFTERLIFE IS NOT UPON YOU, AND THE PADRE IS NOT IN THE SHOWER. YOU ARE MERELY HEARING THE CONINGSBY ROSES MILITARY WIVES CHOIR (MWC) IN PRACTICE.

T he choir is a group of wives, daughters, fiancées and girlfriends of personnel based

at RAF Coningsby and the local area, as well as women either currently or formerly serving in the RAF.

Choirs are by no means a new occurrence around RAF Stations, but they have experienced a surge in the wake of the TV series of the Choir and

support of Gareth Malone. Inspired by what was a very successful programme and how much was achieved by the original choir; wives, girlfriends and female serving members at RAF Coningsby started their own choir, the ‘Coningsby Roses’, in October 2012. Subsequently, the Military Wives Choir Foundation was launched uniting all the Wives Choirs from all Stations, Units and Services. The Coningsby Roses

ables

onetoone32 33PEOPLE & ACHIEVEMENTS ISSUE 4 2013

The 7th of November heralded the annual station bonfire and fireworks display ably organised

by Survival Equipment Flight with the help of Depth Support Squadron. The fireworks were launched by Cadet Corporal Tyler Spencer who was granted the honour in recognition of his sterling work in raising funds for good causes over the year. Food was laid on by Catering Flight, some of the profits of which, along with donations raised on the night by collectors will go towards next year’s event. An extra big thank you is owed to 17 (Coningsby) ATC Sqn for helping out with fundraising and crowd control on the night.

STATION BONFIRE NIGHT

,

J.W.L. PERKINS & SONEstabli shed 1920

7 Market Place, Horncastle Tel: 523291

Newsagent, Stationer,Bookseller

alsoGreeting Card Specialist

R. WISBY(FAMILY BUTCHER) LTD

We are a Traditional family Butchers offering top quality products with polite and courteous service. A warm welcome to all our customers, please phone to discuss your requirements.

Wragby Shop

01673 858968

Horncastle Shop

01507 527371

• Hot Pies and Food to go • Bureau de Change on Demand

• Groceries, bread, Milk• Fantastic Selection of Papers & Magazines

• Wines & Spirits • Passport Check & Send Service

Post Office, TattershallLincolnshire LN4 4LJ

Tel: 01526 342822

onetoone34 35CHARITY ISSUE 4 2013

of keeping dry feet were scuppered when we traversed up a hill to get back to what was the path. All of us ended up shin deep in mud and so gained the path with the prospect of another day of wet feet ahead. The climb itself was on an old mining track and was, in contrast to the previous day, ride-able on the bike, but it was very hard going, with a proper burn being felt in both the legs and the lungs! The climb up from Low Barrowdale to Belt Howe was again a push and a carry, but provided a fast downhill section to arrive at the M6 where we stopped for lunch at the 25 mile point and 5 hours of riding.

We stopped only for 20 minutes, enough to down a hot meal, and then off again, out of the Lake District through Tebay and onwards and Eastwards towards Ravenstonedale. Another quick cuppa here (we were doing much better for tea today!!) before going up into the Yorkshire Dales, heading towards the high hills at Woofergill. The track became very sparse and boggy and in some places, non-existent, and as we approached the river we found that the bridge that had once crossed it had now gone. Going back through the quagmire and traversing around would put us way behind a schedule we were already behind and it was extremely tough going, so we elected to cross the river before having to push the bikes up a steep incline to find the line of the woods and eventually up to the path that would take us to Tan Hill Inn, the highest pub in England. We arrived at the pub after 10 hours in the saddle and decided that not only would we have a cuppa here, but a swift beer too, to bolster the spirits. We had covered just over 48 miles of the 85 we wanted to ride that day. Finishing the planned route was going to be a tall order. Happily, being the highest pub in England meant that we were now going downhill. Fast. We hit 43 mph on the stretch between Tan Hill Inn and Reeth, covering the distance of 12 miles in just over 20 minutes! This was to be the fastest stretch of the whole ride! Because we had been going so long, the GPS ran out of batteries at this point and we had to follow the support wagon for navigation along the small tarmacked roads to Brompton. On arriving at Brompton at 2030hrs we had spent 14 hours in the saddle and

had traversed across the Eastern side of the Lake District, over the Yorkshire Dales and positioned ourselves on the Western side of the North Yorkshire Moors. We cycled over 85 miles and climbed over 10500ft! This is undoubtedly the hardest days cycling any of us had ever done! We got the bikes in the wagon and drove back to the pub we were staying at for a pint of Black Sheep, a pie, a shower and bed!

We were cycling again by 0655hrs heading up to the base of the first big climb of the day. It was clear from looking West that we were in for a very wet day. We began the long climb onto the ridge. Although steep and wet, it was ride-able and after a 45 minute climb through Arncliffe Wood we were rewarded with a steep but fast downhill section in the now pouring rain. From there it was a really good track that coasted downhill through the woods, across fields and onto small single track roads. It was some of the most enjoyable riding we’d had yet, even though we were knackered and wet! It couldn’t last though and as we approached Wath, we were off and pushing the bikes up a very steep muddy climb beneath Barkers Crags before finding a more ride-able track. After just under 4 hours we had achieved just over 19 miles. When Angus and Sam arrived around the corner, they had brought with them the best bacon baguettes ever created. I can honestly say that I have never had a bacon sandwich as good as that one! We were about to leave any semblance of civilisation and get properly onto the top of the moors. It was going to be very exposed. Soon after leaving the wagon we were back to pushing up hill again up a 400ft incline before picking up the mining track on top of Urra Moor and progressing to the top of Round Hill in thick fog with a strong breeze in our faces and driving rain. After a further 2 hours up on the moors, we found the support wagon and lunch at about 1300hrs. The afternoon took us across Danby High Moor and over Glaisdale Moor and onto Glaisdale Rigg and down into Glaisdale itself. Morale was building now as we knew we had the worst behind us and were nearly there. We had been going 7 hours and were 38 miles in, but with mostly metalled roads ahead, the going should get better. We started down the incredibly

steep hill down to Grosmont, which we worked out translated as ‘Big Hill’. We hit 47 miles an hour down the hill into the village but realised that the downhill part of Grosmont was not the only hill. We started up a 25% gradient which set the scene for no less than 4 25% climbs in the next hour, of differing distances. As we got to the bottom of the hill at Sleights, we knew this was the last climb, although it was a big one to the top of Ugglebarnby Moor. A mile and half, starting at 25% gradient and then easing off toward the top to a mere 15%!!

Once gathered at the top with a new found energy in our legs for the last 7 miles to Robin

Hoods Bay. As we cruised down the hill at high speed at Fylingthorpe, we were a little disbelieving that we were actually going to make it. Remarkably, for the final 10 miles, the weather had cleared and as we reached the North Sea and with enormous grins, dipped our wheels in the water, the sun shone down and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. After some hugs, pictures and having stowed the bikes away, we had a few pints, and sat in the sun. We had cycled over 175 miles, climbed 21,500ft and achieved it in 52 hours almost to the minute!HELP US REACH OUR £10,000 TARGET BY SPONSORING US AT:http://www.justgiving.com/teams/ExRedC2C

EX REDS COAST TO COAST CYCLE

SQN LDR DUNC MASON, OC BBMF AND FORMER RED ARROW SET OUT

TO CYCLE FROM COAST TO COAST IN SUPPORT OF THE JON EGGING TRUST. TOGETHER WITH 2 OTHER

EX-REDS AND EMMA EGGING, THE WIDOW OF JON, THE TEAM

AIMED TO RAISE BOTH FUNDS AND AWARENESS FOR THE CHARITY

SET UP TO GIVE DISADVANTAGED YOUNG PEOPLE THE OPPORTUNITY

TO ACHIEVE THEIR POTENTIAL THROUGH GAINING ACCESS TO

A VARIETY OF INSPIRATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCING

THE THRILL OF FLIGHT.

These young people are not achieving their potentials because of various negative factors in their

lives which are beyond their control. The students the Trust supports often have low self-esteem and confidence, they lack role models, have limited horizons and struggle with problems such as bullying and in some cases would drop out of education to become another statistic of crime or unemployment without initiatives such as this.

Setting off from St Bees in Cumbria, I was travelling light with only a couple of waterproof coats, a bivvy bag and first aid kit in case we got in trouble and some dry clothes and energy bars. At 1210hrs on the 17th Sep 2013 we dipped our wheels in the Atlantic and started riding.

The first hour saw us cycling down tiny lanes that belied the terrain that was to come but as we approached Ennerdale Water the peaks of Lank Rigg and Seatalian were rising into the clouds to remind us that it wouldn’t be long before we started climbing and we left the metalled road and joined a decent track that hugged the side of the lake. We weren’t to know at this point that this was the last decent track we would see until it got dark!

The Lakes had seen a lot of rain in the preceding days and it looked like the hills would be throwing most of it at us! We had been going just over 2 hours and had covered just 17 miles when we started to climb Black Sail Pass it was evident that we wouldn’t be cycling for a while, we’d be carrying the bikes and the question going through my mind was whether we’d get off the mountains before it was dark! The terrain was so steep and slippy that we had to set up a shuttle run to carry the bikes to the top of the hill. It was awkward and very tiring, but we got to the saddle just under an hour later and started the steep and difficult descent into Wasdale. It was going down the wet stony path that I went over my handlebars not only once, but twice (careless!) and the other boys fell too. Nobody was badly hurt though, just a few scratches and bruises and we picked ourselves up and carried on. By this time we all had sodden feet

and crossing the waterfall half way down the descent meant that our feet wouldn’t be wetter if we were stood in a swimming pool!

We had about 2.5 hours of daylight left. The question was, would we make it down off the mountain before dark? We had just under 4 miles to the bottom of the valley on some of the most challenging terrain available for a bike. Our decision? We were all comfortable with navigating at night and concluded that if the worst came to the worst we could leave the bikes and walk off the hill if necessary. Press on! We managed to ride some of the downhill sections but a lot of the terrain meant pushing or carrying the bike up the hill and soon we were bantering about changing the name of the challenge to the Ex Reds Coast to Coast Mountain Bike Push!

As we began our final descent from Rossett Pike into Langdale Fell we again found ourselves carrying the bikes or negotiating steep descents. I went over the handlebars again for good measure and everyone else had a tumble at some point on this difficult descent. We entered the valley of Langdale Fell in twilight, but in the distance we could see a very welcome sight. The support wagon. And that meant our first cup of tea in what was now nearly 8 hours of riding! We cycled into Ambleside at 2045hrs having been cycling for 8 hours 40 minutes. A bath, a bite to eat, a pint and then to bed as we knew that day 2 was going to be even bigger! Everyone was delighted when I told them that they were to be ready to go at 0615 the following day and that we were starting with a big ascent!

Everyone was out and ready to go at 0615 (even Emma…). The support team had cleaned the bikes the night before and had everything looking like new. None of us had slept particularly well, the boys all having woken about 4ish.

We cycled out of Ambleside down the side of Windermere on a lovely morning with mist lying over the lake but no wind, and happily no rain! We stopped at Troutbeck for breakfast before setting off up Moor Head. We couldn’t find the path initially and any thought www.ambucopter.org.uk - Enquiries@ambucopter.org.uk - 01522 548469

Registered Charity No. 1017501

onetoone36 37 FORCE DEVELOPMENT ISSUE 4 2013

Travelling by minibus via the Eurostar to Luxembourg, we took the opportunity to visit Ypres and to pay

our respects at the Menin Gate Memorial. We arrived in Ypres in the early evening, checked into our hotel where the SEngO and Flt Sgt discovered that whilst there were certainly two beds in the twin room they were sharing, the room was so small they could not actually push them apart; the SEngO insisted FS Jeffery had the extra pillow to cuddle to prevent any awkward encounters.

The whole party then headed straight out to explore Ypres. The Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres is dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers of World War I whose graves are not known. The memorial marks the beginning of one of the main roads that led Allied soldiers to the front line.

I was unsure what it would be like before we got there, but walking through the Hall of Memories, I was staggered by the number of names on the walls (over 54,000 I later discovered). It occurred

to me that it was a place that my Great Grandfather would likely have marched through on his way to Passchendaele and I was grateful for the opportunity to stand in the place he might have been. In fact one of our party, Sgt Phil Lincoln, was able to find and photograph the inscription to his grandfather.

After paying our respects at the memorial itself, two of our party had prepared a short brief about Menin Gate and its historical significance; we then attended a Last Post ceremony. The Last Post ceremonies are held daily at 8pm by the citizens of Ypres and are ordinarily performed by the local Fire Brigade but on this occasion they were accompanied by a parade of 40 members of the British Army Intelligence Corps. It was again amazing to see approximately 300 people gather to watch this daily event with school parties from the UK, Holland and France in the crowd.

The next morning before we continued on our journey to Luxembourg we went to the ‘In Flanders Museum’ where we saw WWI photographs, uniforms and some of their personal stories. It was a fascinating and worthwhile visit. Sadly we could not stay for long as we had to continue on our journey.

We arrived in Luxembourg in late afternoon and got ready to go to the

reception being held by the British Ambassador to Luxembourg, Alice Walpole. On arrival, wearing No 1 uniforms, at the Ambassador’s Residence we were given our duties, which largely involved the welcoming and ushering of the guests which included two Ambassadors, the UK Defence Attaché, four RAF Air Marshalls, two RAF Air Vice Marshalls and senior members of the Luxembourg Armed Forces. After our duties had been satisfied we were invited to enjoy a glass of champagne and had an opportunity to chat with representatives from RAFA Luxembourg and other branches of the Armed Forces who were also in attendance, which was really interesting. As the reception drew to a close, the SEngO later described the panic he felt when he looked up to see the British Ambassador stood in group of 7 SACs all sipping champagne and in deep conversation; he was less reassured when he later found out she had been suggesting a number of venues

that her daughters used to ‘socialise’ in which she thought we might enjoy if we wanted to continue our evening (interestingly, when asked by one of the SACs if her daughters would be out that evening, she informed the group that ALL of her daughters were away for the weekend). However, she was spot on with her recommendations of where a visitor to Luxembourg may want to visit, or so I’m told.

On Saturday morning SAC Liam Atkinson, who was entrusted with ensuring the party was awake in time, spent most of the night worrying about sleeping in but luckily overcame this and made sure we were all ready. We travelled by coach to join the VIPs, RAFA members and local dignitaries at a wreath laying ceremony in Hollerich where six RAF personnel were buried, including the crew of a Stirling Bomber who died when their aircraft crashed near Koerich after being hit by German flak. This event involved the RAF Coningsby contingent undertaking a range of duties from wreath handling, where SAC Matt Griffin kept getting mixed up with his VIPs and giving the wrong wreath to the wrong 4 Star, whilst the remainder of the party acted as Guard of Honour; the SEngO was later heard complaining about how stiff he had got holding the salute for the full 2 Minutes Silence. We then proceeded to Marscherwald to a site where an RAF Halifax bomber was shot down in August 1943. Three crew members were killed and four survived of which one was captured by German forces and the remaining three were hidden by the local population and eventually returned home. Because of its remote location, only a small group could attend the crash site itself but again members of the RAF contingent provided the Honour Guard. At the crash site, wreaths were laid and a small ceremony was held.

After the visit to the crash site, the full party moved to the town of Marscherwald where the community had gathered again for a memorial event not only for the downed RAF airman but also those locals killed or forced into military service by the Nazi occupiers. This was a larger event with more wreath laying at the memorial in Marscherwald and culminated in the Coningsby party parading and Marching Past the Memorial and VIPs accompanied

ON 17 OCTOBER, MYSELF AND 15 OTHER REPRESENTATIVES FROM RAF CONINGSBY’S

TYPHOON MAINTENANCE FACILITY AND MISSION SUPPORT CENTRE WENT TO LUXEMBOURG TO

REMEMBER BRITISH AND COMMONWEALTH SERVICEMEN WHO DIED IN THE GRAND DUCHY

DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR.

EXERCISE LUXEMBOURG MEMORIAL

BY SGT T. HALFORD

by the Marscherwald town band. Despite some problems with the SNCOs struggling to remember which was left and which was right, the event was a huge success and was extremely well received by the local community. At a reception in the local community centre the families of the Marscherwald citizens involved in rescuing, nursing and concealing the servicemen gave an inspiring account of what happened and presented an information board that was to be placed at the crash site of the Halifax.

We returned to the hotel in Luxembourg where we prepared for the RAFA Wings Ball. When we arrived we were seated at tables with an interesting variety of people all of whom made the Coningsby contingent very welcome. Members of our group were again involved in fundraising by selling raffle tickets all in aid of RAFA raising an impressive 4000 Euros. Although most of our party didn’t partake, we certainly witnessed some dancing and it was a fitting end to a rewarding weekend.

The trip to Luxembourg was deemed a resounding success by all the party; from the poignant trip to the Menin Gate and Flanders Museum, to hearing of the often forgotten heroism of the Resistance who risked the lives of themselves and also their families to help save the lives of RAF airmen. The people of Luxembourg have clearly not forgotten WWII and the sacrifices made to free them from occupation, but it was a real honour for the RAF Coningsby party to be able to honour the fallen of both the RAF but also population of a beautiful but brave little country.

b h h ld b d

onetoone38 39SPORT ISSUE 4 2013

S TRIIIIKEEE! An all familiar sound that’s been heard at numerous bowling centres

across the UK and Europe as bowlers from Coningsby plight their passion in representation of both the station, the RAF and in some cases their country. 2013 has seen Chf Tech Tony Lee (CAMO) and Cpl Chris Jaap (GSS), represent both the RAF and Wales; whilst WO Paul Maddock (Typh IPT) and FS Chris Quilter (GEF), have been part of the RAF’s Development Squad; competing as well as nurturing the junior members on route to the full RAF squad.

In highlighting the major achievements of the Coningsby side both Chf Tech Lee and Cpl Jaap were part of the RAF Red Team that won the highly contested Composite Team event at this RAF Championships whilst finishing 6th at the European Corporate Championships. In addition to this WO Maddock formed one of a development squad pairing that in March this year won the Division

B Doubles event at the National Championships. Together with FS Quilter WO Maddock was a member of the Development Squad that won both sport and the divisional awards as well as a haul of medals at the UK Corporate Games in July.

The Station team have figured well in a number of events; not least 2nd handicap and 1st scratch in the RAF Fours as well as a number of successes at this years 50th RAF Championships with Maddock & Quilter winning the doubles and Lee and Jaap finishing 2nd in the team event. In all the events attended scoring has been high, with all Coningsby bowlers hitting in excess, or very close to, 200 averages; the highest of the lot being Tony Lee’s 233 at the European Corporate Championships that saw him finish 7th in the rankings of the 400+ bowlers that took part.

In 2014 the squad look to maintain and surpass the achievements of 2013; indeed the season has already started well with successes at the RAF

Championships. All 4 of the above mentioned players have once again been selected for their representative teams; Lee and Maddock also managing the RAF and Development squads respectively.

RAF Coningsby dispatched a strong continent to the annual Ski and Snowboard Championships in Austria, Jan 13. From those participants Cpl Rathbone and SAC Mather were selected to represent the RAF at the inter-Service competition in Meribel. It was their first year at the inter-Services competition and they played a key role in point scoring for all 3 events: Boardercross, Slalom and Slopestyle. For some the competition element has not stopped; SAC Mather represented Coningsby at the Indoor Championships at Castleford in Sep 13 where he was placed 1st at the Slopestyle event and is a frequent winner of the North v South RAF Snowboarding Super League.

RAF Coningsby has a large snowboarding contingent; the North v South competitions, held monthly at various Snowzones, are well represented by Coningsby personnel. These events are organised by the RAF Snowboarding Events Co-ordinator, SAC Mather, and the events are open to all riders within the RAF. The event has the aim of promoting year-round interest in the sport whilst improving the standard of riding whilst providing an opportunity to push individuals to their limits in a competitive and controlled environment.

As we look ahead to the winter season Coningsby will once again have excellent representation within

the RAF Snowboard Squad and the chances of representation going beyond Station level is high. There is hope that Coningsby personnel will be selected to represent the RAF at the forthcoming inter-Service competition and results dependant; they may be selected to represent the Combined Services at the 2014 British Snowboard Championships.

The 2014 Ski and Snowboard Championships will once again host the Australian Defence Force as they return to Saalbach Hinterglem to participate in the RAF competitions, rather than to Tignes with the Royal Navy. For those Coningsby personnel who are participating at the 2014 Championships we now have the opportunity for an additional international competition which will make for a tougher competition and raise the competitive standards of both skiers and riders alike.

RAF Coningsby’s Running Club has had an excellent sporting year, the team “cleaned up” in the Lincolnshire Services Cross Country League (LSCCL), The Mens A, B and C teams were 1st in the respective team comps and 1st Male LSSCL, 2nd Vet B (50 plus) 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 8th Senior male (18-39).

The RAF XC Champs at Halton saw Coningsby collect more silverware with SAC Sam Mitchell the 2013 RAF XC Champ and the team scooping the Inter-Station trophy for the first time since 1986. Inter Service XC saw 2 of Coningsby team runners representing the RAF, with SAC Mitchell 2nd and Cpl Bailey 15th Overall, aiding the RAF Team to an IS win.

The London Marathon saw Cpl Bailey competing again for the RAF and finishing in 2:40, Sgt Plant made his debut at Marathon Distance with a credible 3:01.

Coningsby also competed in the Lincolnshire Road Racing League (LSRRL), with trophies for 1st and 3rd Senior Male (Sgt Plant and SAC Gambrill) 1st Senior Lady (Cpl Barnes) and 6th Male Vet A (40-49) Sgt Willey adding to the haul for ’13.

Coningsby runners also compete at various RAF and Civilian races, notably the Benson 7 mile RR, Honington 10k and Henlow 10 mile RR. Cpl Ian Bailey finished 2nd overall at the Honington 10 and SAC Sam Mitchell won the Henlow 10 in 2013 with an impressive finish time of 54mins.

RAF Coningsby running Club welcomes runners of all abilities and distances from 5k to Ultra Marathon.

This year the RAF Coningsby Rugby Club has seen 7 of its players represent the RAF at all levels and 2 at Combined Services level and 2 representing the GB Armed Forces World Cup side.

SAC Jordon Andrade was selected to play Rugby League for the RAF Senior team and has also been selected for the Combined Services side; culminating in his selection for the GB Armed Forces World Cup side along with Cpl Nathan Parker. Both players established themselves as RAF 1st XIII players and warranted their selection for this fantastic event.  The World Cup was hosted by Combined Services Rugby League and was played at Colchester Garrison in early Jul 13. SAC(T) Andrade’s performance against Australia is worthy of special mention, demonstrating exceptional courage and playing ability.  Both players commitment and determination to make the squad

2013 STATION SPORTING ROUNDUP

started in Jan 13, seeing them progress through considerable strength and conditioning programmes to ensure a high level of physical preparedness. WO Damian Clayton (MT) had the prestigious honour of coaching the GB Armed Forces World Cup side.

Cpl John Ledger and SAC Adam Flintham were selected to represent the RAF Senior side at Rugby League. This saw them play in all Combined Services fixtures; beating the Navy at Cranwell on a wet Sept evening. Unfortunately it was not enough to stop the Army taking the trophy for 2013. SAC Daniel Gibbons represented the RAF U23’s and stood in at short notice to help out the RAF Veterans presidents XV at Kersteven. This was a bit of a step up for the youngster who was not used to playing with such greats of the rugby field. Age and treachery will always be the undoing of youth and speed.

SAC’s Fraser Welsh and Sam Smith were selected to represent the RAF Hawks U20 XV and also represented the RAF Eagles Divisional side.

Coningsby also had SAC’s Jason Phillps, John Watt, Joe Gray and Ryan Batchelor selected for the RAF Eagles Divisional rugby XV side. This team is made up of the best players from Coningsby, Cranwell, Digby, Scampton, Honington and Waddington; players attend a 2 day training camp before being selected to play at Halton over a 3 day event which establishes the best divisional team in the RAF. Out of the 25 man squad Coningsby provided 6 personnel who played in all 5 matches.

The RAF Eagles side is managed and coached by Sgt Kev Wynn (QCIT) who is also the coach of the Coningsby Panthers XV.

From Rugby League to Union RAF Coningsby was integral in keeping grass roots rugby alive across the board with some exceptional talent showing through. The individuals above have shown a fantastic work ethic and willingness to push that little harder than the rest which has reaped much deserved rewards. Coningsby’s Rugby Team hope to build on this success in the coming season and hope to regain the RAF RL Inter Station Cup lost this year for the first time in 3 years. Rugby Union wise we hope to see more new players turn out for the Station and help get Coningsby back to the forefront of rugby in the RAF.     

What a season for the RAF Coningsby Football Club (FC). RAF Coningsby FC entered 4 competitions during the calendar year season and won them all.

The hard work which lead to this success started way back in July 12 as the squad began pre-season training. The manager, Cpl Graeme Hodgson (LS), put a lot of hard work into getting the Station players comfortable on the ball, he also ensured the hard miles were put in to bring the players fitness levels up to scratch. This was fundamental in maintaining the ‘high tempo’ game plan used throughout the season.

After an unconvincing start; an away defeat, a home draw and then a 5-0 away win at local rivals Waddington, the team embarked on an impressive 10 game unbeaten run in all competitions, a feat that was set to continue.

This excellent run of form enabled progression through the RAF Challenge Cup group stages; the team amassed an incredible 21 goals whilst conceding only 2 over 3 games to ensure passage through to the RAF Challenge Cup Quarter final.

The RAF Challenge Cup Quarter Final win over RAF Brampton booked Coningsby a place in the Semi-Final, away, at RAF Leeming. A last minute winner from SAC Green sent the Station through to the RAF FA’s prestigious Final.

The Club secured the Lincolnshire Services

Association Football League (LSAFL) Division 1 title, the LSAFL League

Cup, the RAF 5-a-side ‘Festival of Football’ trophy before beating RAF Lossiemouth in the RAF Challenge Cup final 2-0; which was held at RAF Cranwell in May 13.

An unprecedented 4 trophy haul was a great reward for all the efforts players and staff put into the season. RAF Coningsby continues to supply players for both the RAF U23 Mens and RAF Senior Mens Football sides with SAC Jack Debnam also representing the Combined Services team.

All of these sporting achievements wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of sporting personnel’s Line Managers. The release of these players is key to providing an inducement to physical fitness which in turn contributes to military effectiveness by encouraging personal qualities such as courage, resilience and esprit de corps.

On a personal note I’d like to thank all of the staff within MT Flight and especially WO Clayton who continues to provide a first class travel service to all of our teams and sporting representatives. Without Mr Clayton and his staff’s support many of our fixtures would be unable to take place. As incumbent in the role of Officer Commanding Physical Education I’d like to thank MT Flight on behalf of the entire sporting fraternity here at Coningsby for their continued support and faultless service.

ALTHOUGH SPORTS ARE NORMALLY ALL ABOUT SEASONS RATHER THAN YEARS; THE FESTIVE PERIOD IS ALWAYS A GREAT TIME TO TAKE STOCK AND LOOK BACK AT THE PAST 12 MONTHS. AS THE STATION TRAINING OFFICER (WHICH ENCAPSULATES THE TRADITIONAL OFFICER COMMANDING PHYSICAL EDUCATION ROLE) I’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH YOU A ‘SNAPSHOT LOOK’ AT RAF CONINGSBY’S SPORTING CLUB HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR OF 2013.

m

BY FLT LT CHRIS WILLIAMS

onetoone40 41SPORT ISSUE 4 2013

ALL THE ICE HOCKEY TEAMS WITHIN THE ARMY, NAVY AND RAF CONVERGED ON SHEFFIELD FOR THE ANNUAL TRI SERVICE CHAMPIONSHIPS. DUE TO THE CURRENT HIGH OPERATIONAL TEMPO, LESS TEAMS TOOK PART THAN NORMAL, BUT 11 SQUADS STILL MANAGED TO TAKE TO THE ICE.

T he standard was high with some teams boasting semi-pro English National Ice

Hockey League players amongst their ranks. The format involved teams representing Corps, Bases, Units or regions from of each of the three Services playing each other in a preliminary league competition. League positions then determined who competed in a playoff for the Cup. The RAF managed to field 5 teams this year: RAF Scotland (a combination of the Lossiemouth Jets and the Leuchars Knights), the Benson and Brize Bluewings, RAF Cosford Stars and RAF Eastern Crusade (who were large enough to enter 2 full teams).

RAF Eastern Crusade are a club based at Peterborough Ice Rink and represent all RAF bases in the East of

England. Drawing from Coningsby, Waddington, Wittering, Marham and a number other smaller bases in between, the team have evolved from the perennial whippings boys of Services Ice Hockey, to emerge as regular trophy winners and a well-respected developer of new players.

When the trawl for available players took place, it soon became apparent that the club would be in the luxurious position of having more than enough players to enter 2 teams. The problem faced by management now was who would make the ‘A team’. This proved very difficult due to the calibre of players available, most of whom were easily good enough to represent the first team. The decision was made to put out 2 evenly matched teams that could both be competitive. One would be called RAF Eastern, the other RAF Crusade. Airman 1st Class Anthony Poissant (RAF Lakenheath) captained Eastern, Corporal Karl Elliott (RAF Coningsby) captained Crusade. There was a concern that we were ‘watering down’ what could be a very strong first team, but we agreed that team spirit was more important, and we went ahead regardless, hoping to meet each other in the final.

The first day saw all the teams split into 2 groups. RAF Eastern and RAF Crusade were fortunate to avoid each other in the group league. Each team set about their separate campaigns, with a shared goal of bringing the Cup back to Peterborough. After an explanation of how the group positioning effected playoff match ups, it was soon evident that the best way for Eastern and Crusade to avoid each other was to simply win their respective groups. Simple! Not quite,

especially after Eastern began with 2-1 loss to a very fit Royal Marines side. Crusade started with a bang, leaving the Royal Navy all at sea with a 12-1 thumping. Both teams went from strength to strength, with Eastern winning the remainder of their games, and Crusade winning all save a 2-2 draw against the Army Allstars. This left both teams top of their respective groups as hoped for. Most importantly they were in separate quarter finals, meaning they could only meet in the final. The way both teams were playing a final playoff was a likely bet.

RAF Eastern took on an RAF Scotland team not short on talent, but unfortunately, short on players. The pace and intensity of Eastern’s play proved too much for the Scottish team who conceded 3 goals to one. RAF Crusade faced the newest addition to Tri Service Ice Hockey, the Sappers. Possibly the worst performance of the tournament from Crusade left the team 1 goal down with a minute left to play. Coach, Sgt Marcus Barnes (RAF Marham), made the decision to pull the goalie, leaving us with and empty net, but with one extra man on the ice. Good possession was key with this strategy, and all the play was contained to the Sappers end of the rink. With the boisterous crowd on the edge of their seats, the equalizing goal came with just 15 seconds left on the clock. It was now down to penalty shots to decide the tie. Crusade were able to seal the victory with 2 penalty shots to 1.

So on the semi finals. Eastern faced CCS Army Chieftains. Crusade faced the Army Allstars (who they failed to beat in the group stages). Crusade had really zeroed in their shooting by this point and swept the opposition aside 6-2 to make the final. Eastern dominated CCS Army Chieftains, but mistakes cost them dearly, and they went down 4-1. The final score was not a true reflection of the game at all but the dream of an all RAF Eastern Crusade final was over.

RAF Crusade focused their thoughts towards their Cup final opponents, the CCS Army Chieftains. Crusade had already beaten them 2-1 in the group stages, but were painfully aware that they had been outplayed in that game and had benefitted from some dubious refereeing decisions. Knowing that Army teams are extremely strong and fit, the players knew they had to dig deep. A promising start put them in control

of the game but the Army team posed a constant threat from breakaways. It was tense stuff, as any mistake could cost the team dearly. They conceded against the run of play, but remained calm and kept probing at the Army defence, keeping play mostly in the opposition zone. Always ones for drama, it was 2 late goals from Sgt McDonald (RAF Waddington) that sealed the victory and RAF Crusade were crowned Tri-Service 2013 champions! RAF Eastern eventually come 4th overall meaning the trip back down the A1 could be conducted with heads held high after a fantastic club achievement.

Ice Hockey is a growing recognised sport in the RAF, and players of all levels are welcome. If anyone with previous Ice or Roller Hockey experience, or feels they are a strong skater, get in touch. CPL Guscott x8156 or SAC Dunn x7239

RAF EASTERN RESULTS:GROUP:Lost to Marines 2-1Beat Army Chieftains 13-1Beat RAF Bluewings 2-1Beat Army Sappers 4-1PLAYOFFS:¼ FINAL:Beat RAF Scotland 3-1SEMI FINAL:Lost to CCS Chieftains 4-13RD PLACE MATCH:Lost to Army Allstars 6-5

RAF CRUSADE RESULTS:GROUP:Beat Navy general service 12-1Beat RAF Scotland 6-1Beat CCS Chieftains 2-1Drew with Army Allstars 2-2Beat RAF Cosford 13-0PLAYOFFS:¼ FINAL: Drew 2-2 with Army Sappers. Won shootout 2-1SEMI FINAL:Beat Army Allstars 6-1FINAL:Beat CCS Chieftains A 2-1

ICE HOCKEY TRI-SERVICE CHAMPIONSHIPS

BY CPL KARL ELLIOTT

COMPETITION

SPOT THE DIFFERENCEONCE AGAIN

CONINGSBY’S AWARD WINNING

PHOTOGRAPHIC SECTION HAVE

ALTERED ONE OF THESE IMAGES.

I f you think you know how many differences there are, email the editior of the OnetoOne magazine

(CON-GMB-121 Editor) stating the number you can spot. Be warned, some of them are pretty subtle.

Mr Les Anderson of the Visiting Aircraft Handling Flight was the lucky winner of the last competition. He was thoroughly overwhelmed by his

prestigious prize of a limited edition Royal Air Force hat. Up for grabs this time is a fabulous Royal Air Force Official Calendar*. All competition entries must be received before Monday 20th of January 2014.

*No, not a 2013 calendar you cynics. An actual 2014 version featuring all the latest and greatest aircraft (and Tornado).

onetoone 4342

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

ISSUE 4 2013

P.J.BClock

Repairs

116 West St.

Boston, LincsPE21 8QZTelephone:

01205 361555

Penny’s PlaceCottage Cafe

39 Sliver Street, Coningsby, Lincs, LN4 4SY

A wide choices of All Day Breakfast A wide choice of light lunches, snacks,

mouth watering cakes and pastries available throughout the day

All our food is locally sourced and freshly made for your pleasure

to eat in or take awayWishing you a prosperous New Year from Penny and all staff.

Home delivery service now availableWe now take debit cards

Contact 01526 342122

Open 8am till 4pm Monday to SaturdayBreakfast served ALL day.Home cooked lunches served between 12 pm and 2pm

Alan TittershillGas Services Engineer

Natural Gas, LPG and Oil Appliances,

Landlord Safety Certificates,

Install, Service, Repair, System Power Flushing,

Heating & Plumbing

Maintenance 303251

Business Mobile: 07908 961155

Home Number: 01526 343598

26376

www.justjillsalternativeremedies.co.uk

GILLIAN R ROBINSONHMD. DI.HOM. F.B.I.H.Homeopathic Practitioner

Alternative Remedies

Health Food Shop

Postal Service Available

12 The Broadway, Woodhall Spa, LincolnshireTel: Shop 01526 353 794 Home: 01526 353 417

Email: info@justjillsalternativeremedies.co.uk

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

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

• Dry Cleaning• Wedding Dress

Cleaning and Boxing Service

• Evening Dresses & Ball Gown cleaning

• Curtain and Soft Furnishing Cleaning

• Ironing Service• Repairs and

Alterations• Duvets Cleaning• Collection and

Delivery (Contact us for details)

24 Dolphin Lane, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 6EU

Tel : 01205 354229

Dry Cleaners

CHRISTMAS GIFT SETS NOW AVAILABLE IN BOTH HAIR &

BEAUTY PRODUCTS.

These gift sets are now in stock and are an excellent idea for that

special Christmas present.

Do not delay contact Cherries now as these gifts are available

to purchase from the Salon.

75-77 High Street, Coningsby, Lincs. LN4 4RBTelephone: 01526 344414

Broken, leaking or blocked guttering at your home or

business? Conservatory roof needing cleaning or fixing?

Don’t know who to call?GUTTERCLEANSE

CAN HELP!• Emergency callout • Gutters cleaned and repaired • Yearly health checks of

your guttering• Conservatory roofs cleanedFull Public Liability Insurance

No job too small or too bigCall Dave

01529 410380 07877 362941

Golden Dragon

15 THE BROADWAY, WOODHALL SPA,LINCS LN10 6ST

Chinese Restaurant

Tel: 01526 352148

Opening Times:Tues - Sun 5.30pm - 10pm

A surprising selection of footwear for all the family.

Also Clarks’ childrensshoes fitted by trained

staff.www.poyntonsshoes.co.uk

POYNTON’S SHOES

18 HIGH STREET HORNCASTLE LN9 5BL

01507 522582

TheKing’s ArmsChurch Road • Martin Dales

• Woodhall SpaLincolnshire • LN10 6XZ

Tel: 01526 352 633Riverside Pub

Evening meals available

Traditional Sunday lunch

Themed evenings including Quiz

Nights & Bingo

Local Historical Attractions

nearby

Mark and Lynda Limb

TheKing’s Arms

For further info contact your Learning Centre or Andy Greene Inspired2Be on 01522 501886 or email info@inspired2Be.com www.inspired2be.com

Lincolnshire Course 4-12Wadd = Waddington

Con = Coningsby

We are happy to discuss putting on courses at a place and time

that suits you

We are fully approved so you can use SLC’s, ELC’s or Resettlement grants to fund training£250 discount

if 2 courses are booked

together

ILM Leadership and Management award level 2 £175 3 - 4 Feb Wadd

ILM Leadership & Management award level 3 £750 & level 5 £950 10 - 13 Feb Wadd

ILM Coaching award level 3 including NLP Practitioner £1500ILM Coaching award level 5 including NLP Practitioner £1700

NLP Practitioner only (not ELC eligible) £895

3 - 7 Mar (Part 1) Wadd31 Mar - 4 April (Part 2) Wadd

Starting an On-line Business & ILM Enterprise & Entrepreneurship level 3 £1500 12 - 16 May Wadd

Continuous Improvement Manager £220024 - 25 Feb (Part 1) Con24 - 25 Mar (Part 2) Con