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WADDINGTON WINS! - The Insight Online

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INSIGHT<strong>WADDINGTON</strong> <strong>WINS</strong>!<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 1


2 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


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INSIGHTIssue 4 2013From theEditor…Well, who would of thoughtthat a simple engineer and formerhairdresser from North of Hadrian’s Walland who can barely find Waddington ona map would be given the opportunityto be Editor of <strong>Insight</strong> Magazine?But as my day job keepingthe E-3D Sentry aircrew frombreaking things and pullingpanels out of the flight deckdoesn’t keep me nearly busyenough, I thought I’d give ita go. So, here I sit munchingon fried pizza, nibblinghaggis and coveting a box ofyellow hi-lighters to edit themusings and adventures ofa very busy RAF Station.As you see on our cover and inthe Station Commander’s ownforeword, Waddington has hada particularly busy but equallyrewarding year. In recognition, we’vebeen presented 1 Group’s MainOperating Base Excellence Awardand are pleased to call ourselveshome to both 1 Group’s best overallsquadron (5 (Army Cooperation)Squadron) as well as successfullyhosting what has been namedas the highest attended airshowevent in the United Kingdom for2013. Obviously this is due to theeffort, support and patience ofeveryone in and around the Station.cover image © shutterstock/charles whitefield<strong>Insight</strong> continues to invite yoursubmissions, inputs and comments.When they aren’t using their GoogleTranslate Apps to decipher everyword I’m saying, our editorial staffattempts to provide a personalresponse to each, when appropriate.One such example was in responseto our historical piece on theVulcan years here at Waddingtonin Issue 3. It came in from Mr BDavies, who stood alongside theVulcan here at Waddington asan alert forces armourer. Addingdetail to our Station’s Historicalrecords, he noted that:“<strong>The</strong> 4 Vulcans were fully fuelledaircraft on 3 minutes readiness,guarded by one RAF plod with onepistol per aircraft and not evensurrounded by barbed wire. Onseveral occasions it was visitedduring the dark hours by peoplewho escaped from the mentalhospital at St Johns, Bracebridge,who wanted to see what the bigplanes were like!”On that note, I’m off to the hangar.Another Sentry awaits my goldentouch. See you again in the nextaddition where we look at RAFWaddington in the Desert Wars.On the coverWaddington WinsEDITORIAL TEAM:WAD-<strong>Insight</strong>EditorialTeam@mod.ukExternal Email: Use personal email addresses listedTel: 01522 720271 (7801Ext No.)Editor:Sqn Ldr Stewart Bremner8SQN-EngOC@mod.ukDeputy Editor:(Flt Lt) Heather Constantineheather.constantine261@mod.ukAssistant Deputy Editors:(Sqn Ldr) Mark Brammer and (Flt Lt) Levi BirchDistribution:Corporal Stephen CalvertExt 6495 steven.calvert415@mod.ukArtwork: S OliverPhotography:Sgt Karl Whitelaw, Cpl Loz Platfoot, Cpl Sarah Draper,SAC Chris Davidson, SAC Lauren Pope, SAC Andy Stevens, SAC BenStevensonAdvertising by:Jo MarchantTel: 01536 526674Designed by:Mukesh RandevTel: 01536 521126Published by:Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House,Bath Road,Kettering. NN16 8NLTel: 01536 512624Fax: 01536 515481www.lancepublishing.co.ukEmail: mike@lancepublishing.co.ukPrinted by: Lance Print Ltd4 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


20 090617In this Issue…06MountainBike Mayhem13Funny Fokkers22Memorial Garden07StationCommandersForeword16FReD WestVictoria cross284-ship at 1 awards0856 SquadronUnSung Hero17EX Maple Flag29Golf Club095(AC) SquadronCelebrates 100 years188 squadronAssociation ReuNioN3314 Squadron Update12Fake Festival20RAF WaddingtonInternational Airshow38Padre’s Piece<strong>The</strong> magazine is entirely funded by advertising and costs the Station nothing to produce. <strong>Insight</strong> is not an official publication and, unless otherwise stated, views expressed in this magazinedo not necessarily represent MOD, RAF or Station policy. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the editor or publishers. Advertisements acceptedon the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. <strong>Insight</strong> is produced by kind permission of the Station Commander, RAF Waddington.<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 5


Mountain BikeMayhem“How was it?”“It was horrendous, the worstconditions I’ve ever seen loadsof people dropped out”“So you’re not doingit next year then?”“Ok”“Yeah, you should do it too!”It’s probably fair to say thatI went into this without fullyunderstanding what I wouldneed to do to compete in a24 hour mountain bike race.Mountain Mayhem is probablythe best known event of thistype having been establishedfor a number of years with a diehard following. <strong>The</strong> weather hadturned the 2012 race into a testof survival rather than a mountainbike race, this year the racehad been relocatedto GatcombePark the homeof Princess Anne. <strong>The</strong> geologymeant that it should stand upbetter to inclement weather andtherefore a circuit of roughly7 miles had been created onpreviously un-ridden trails.Corporal Richie Nation (Dep OIC)was my guide having done lastyears race on a singlespeed (nogears) and finishing in the topten. You can enter as a team of4 and do laps in a relay style,this is the more sociable andless tiring way to do things. Oryou can enter as a solo rider andgo it alone for 24 hours doingas many laps as possible, this iswhat we would be doing.Time to start training, looking fora bit of guidance on line I founda number of articles which allstarted like this “I’ll assume thisisn’t your first 24 hour race andyour doing it solo as that wouldbe stupid”. Hmmm, a quick phonecall to Richie and he assured methat if I just do 200 miles a weekfor the next 3 months I’ll be fine.My commute to work wouldform the basis of my trainingwhich is a 23 mile round tripon roads and tracks, the mostmiles in a week came to 92.Another phone call to Richieabout food resulted in him tellingme about his nutrition plan, minehad always been to just eat lotsas we would be burning around850 calories per lap. Findingthe right bike was a bit easieras the club had recently had avisit from Scott bikes and theyhad kindly offered to let me usea bike for the race. This was aScott Carbon Spark 920 whichas it turned out was the perfectbike for the race. <strong>The</strong> first testof our relationship was 4 lapsof Sherwood Pines, the bikeperformed brilliantly and the29 inch wheels certainly madea difference as I went round inrecord time.Race day came round quicklyand like all things workcommitments had meant thatthe last few weeks of traininghad involved only a handfulof rides. Registration is on theFriday and we arrived afterimage © shutterstock/L.V. Erickson6 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


StationCommander’sForeword...Group Captain Al GillespieStation CommanderSuccessbreedssuccess….driving through heavy rainto pitch our tent track side asthis would also be our pit stopduring the race. RAF Cyclingwere also there to offer help andsupport as they had entered anumber of teams, the men’s Ateam would eventually finish 3rdoverall with 34 laps. After doublechecking everything it was timeto get our heads down beforethe noon start the next day.During the night it rained heavilyand in the morning I dreaded tothink what would confront mewhen I opened the tent. But asbriefed the geology had meantthat most of the rain had drainedaway and the campsite was inpretty good shape. <strong>The</strong> morningwas spent fettling, eating andlistening to the riders brief.Just before noon you placeyour bike near the start andline up for the 1km run backto your bike which is traditionat Mayhem. <strong>The</strong> excitementis measureable as people talkabout bike setups, tyre choice,food and plans of action.After all the rain the course isa big unknown as those thathad pre ridden it on Fridayhad done so in the dry. Bang!Running in cycling shoes isnot the most natural thingbut it certainly helps spreadout the field. I can feel myselfgetting caught up with theracers and the excitementbefore I remember that therewill be no one to handoverto in the main arena, itsjust me now for the next 24hours. <strong>The</strong> first lap is comedyas people slip and slideall over the place in deep,slimey mud and then fallover again as they struggleto get back on their bike.This is the theme for the firstcouple of laps, some sectionsare un-rideable and somerequire you to stop every 2minutes to removethe mud by handto preventyour bike fromclogging up.Looking back at the last fewmonths, this has been ahugely successful period forthe Station with the deliveryof another outstanding AirShow, winning the MainOperating Base ExcellenceAward at the 1 Group dinnerand celebrating the 100thanniversary of 5 (ArmyCo-operation) Squadron.<strong>The</strong> success of theseevents is the culminationof many months of hardwork and the continuingenthusiasm of personnelacross both the Station andthe wider community.<strong>The</strong> Air Show epitomisesthe heights that can bereached when the Stationpulls together and commitsto presenting an outstandingspectacle. <strong>The</strong> fabulousweather played its part inthe achievement of 145,000spectators but the quality ofthe show reflects the unityof effort and unstintingsupport of all the peopleinvolved. <strong>The</strong> impact of sucha spectacular event is hard toimagine but the interactionof so many station personnelwith the public will leavea lasting impression andensure positive perceptionsof RAF Waddington andthe Royal Air Force witha significant audience.Following on theachievements of the AirShow, RAF Waddington’sachievement at the No.1 Group Awards Dinnercontinued the Station’ssuccessful trend. With 4awards in total, including5 (Army Co-operation) Sqnwinning the Dacre Trophyfor the best overall squadronin 1 Group and the Stationreceiving the Main OperatingBase Excellence award, itis pleasing to see that theachievements of this stationare being recognised atGroup level. I felt immensepride receiving the stationsaward for the outstandingcontribution to 1 Group, theRAF community and widerdefence. Every sportsmanknows the pride and joy thatwinning a competition bringsbecause they also understandthe sacrifices and hardshipsthat have to be enduredto achieve consistentlyhigh levels of performance.Everyone associated withRAF Waddington should beincredibly proud of theseawards and reflect on theirpart in this achievement.<strong>The</strong> Dacre Trophy was a greatachievement for 5 (ArmyCo-operation) Squadron’sefforts this year and a doublecelebration with the 100thanniversary of their formationon 26 July 1913. <strong>The</strong> ceremonyand dinner on Friday 26 Jul2013 and the commemorationservice on Sunday in LincolnCathedral were a fitting tributefor such a historic achievement.Finally, I have to thank SquadronLeader Mark Brammer forhis sterling efforts in editingthe <strong>Insight</strong> Magazine for thelast year. His dedication andenthusiasm have been evidentthroughout and his focus onthe history of RAF Waddington,and ability to capture thebreadth of activity acrossthe Station and communityhas ensured the magazinecaptures the essence of lifeon and around the Station. Ihope you enjoy this edition,reflecting the successes andachievements of our personnel,families and community.<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 7


56 Squadron’sUnsung HeroMajor Richard Graham Blomfield D.S.O. mustbe considered a truly great un-sung hero of56 Squadron; a man who commanded theSquadron during a key period in its history.From his arrival on theSquadron on February 6, 1917,he was determined to make 56Squadron the finest fightingSquadron in the RFC. Knownas the ‘prince of organisers’he left nothing to chance andchose his flight commanderscarefully. Of note, Blomfield’searly capture of Capt AlbertBall, the RFC’s leading ace, wasa clever move which gave theSquadron a reputation andstanding before it even left forFrance for the first time.Tremendously energetic and keen,he was always to be seen runninghere and there, giving closepersonal attention to every area ofthe Squadron’s work – activity andorganisation personified. He hadall his pilots out for a run beforebreakfast, kept them busy aroundthe sheds all day and turned themloose in town at night. <strong>The</strong>y had tobe tip top aviators and bring downHuns. Nothing else mattered!A large part of his success wasdue to the group of 30 veryexperienced engineers he hadbeen poaching from his previousSquadrons. When the Wingdecided he couldn’t keep thisnumber of experienced men andthat they would supply 30 newtrainees to replace them the Majorhad a cunning plan; some of themen on camp had developed fluand were in quarantine. When the30 new untrained men arrivedthey were billeted with 2 menwith flu, and within four days theytoo had flu and were declaredunfit to deploy, so 56 Squadronretained their trained engineers.Major Blomfield was popular withall ranks of the Squadron. Duringone of the Squadron’s moves inFrance inquiring what the officerswere having for dinner, and beingtold roast beef, Blomfield thenasked, ‘and the men?’ On beingtold that the men were havinga cold dinner as their cookingstoves had not been set up,the Major ordered that all rankswould have a cold dinner untilthe cooking stoves were ready.Blomfield’s office always had a signnailed to the door stating ‘Enterwithout knocking’. A young pilot atVert Gallant who had knocked onthe door before entering the CO’soffice had been told ‘This is not abedroom or a lady’s boudoir; if youhave business here walk straight in’.He had particularly views on howhis pilots should behave. One pilotrecalls arriving on the Squadron tobe asked 3 questions by Blomfield.Are you Married?No.Good. Engaged?No.Very Good. Regular girlfriend?No.Excellent.Perhaps not appropriate behaviourfor a CO today, but at the time,maybe a necessary philosophy.September 11, 1917, Blomfeld,as always trying to drive his menonto greater things circulateda letter to the Squadron givingthe number of Huns broughtdown per Flight as follows:By B Flight 56.By C Flight 56.By A Flight 54.This gives the Squadron a total of166 Huns. We understand that thecrack German Squadron, namelythe Travelling Circus, claims tohave brought down 200 machinesin seven and a half months. ThisSquadron arrived in France on 7thApril and since that date has got166 Huns in five and a half months.This now leaves us 75 days to get34 Huns. Of course during our fiveand a half months we wasted 2weeks over training at Vert Galantand 2 weeks protecting England,but even counting this as actualflying time there should be nodifficulty beating the record.Needless to say the Squadronachieved the requestednumber of kills and werecongratulated personally byMajor General Trenchard ontheir magnificent work.Major Blomfield left the Squadronon promotion after just 8 monthsin command. Whilst only a fleetingmoment in the history of 56Squadron, it is safe to say a trulysignificant and lasting impressionwas left by the Major, and he has tobe considered a 56 Squadron great.Author: Sqn Ldr J Tunnard8 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


5(AC) SquadronCelebrates 100 yearsHaving been formed on 26thJuly 1913, 5 (Army Co-operation)Squadron based at RAFWaddington in Lincolnshire isone of the earliest British militaryflying units to be established.On Friday 26th July andofficially 100 years old, theSquadron began a weekendof celebrations to markits Centenary.From its humble beginningsat Farnborough when fragileaircraft made from wood andfabric were referred to asflying machines to present dayadvanced radar technologycoupled to an advancedpressurised air platform, 5(AC)Squadron continues to provideessential intelligence to enablecommanders to monitor themovements and activities ofhostile forces by looking fromthe air, beyond the visualhorizon. Now, as a century ago,this deployable ‘all-seeing’ and‘all-hearing’ capability is highlysought-after and essentialfor our national and regionalsecurity and remains at thefront line of air power.With music provided by boththe RAF Waddington VoluntaryBand and the RAF WaddingtonPipes and Drums celebrationsbegan on Friday evening witha Beating of the Retreat anda Sunset Ceremony whichconcluded with a flypast fromthe Sentinel R1 as well as avintage Hurricane aircraftwhich saw service with 5(AC)Sqn at the height of conflictduring WWII.Celebrations concludedon Sunday 28th July whenpersonnel both past andpresent gathered in theAirman’s Chapel at LincolnCathedral for a Serviceof Commemoration. Inattendance was 96 year oldFlight Lieutenant “Paddy”O’Leary (Retired). Paddy whois still an active member of theSquadron Association, servedon 5(AC) Squadron for fouryears from 1942 to 1946 whenthe Squadron flew Mowhawks;a US built fighter which wasfaster and better able tointercept probing Japanesereconnaissance aircraft.Officer Commanding 5(AC) SqnWing Commander Al Marshallsaid:“It is a privilege to commanda Squadron with such anillustrious history; one thatdates back to earliest daysof fledgling aviation. 5(AC)Sqn has excelled in militaryoperations all over the worldand it’s an honour to be ableto celebrate this occasion withthe men and women whocontinue to make 5 (AC) Sqnthe formidable force that it is.”<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 9


HAINTON HOUSE, BRANSTON, LINCOLNSHIRE“LIVING IN THE PAST, INVESTING IN THE FUTURE”If you have ever dreamed of living in one of Britain’s HistoricHouses but longed for an uncomplicated, modern style of livingthen Hainton House is for you.Seven luxurious Apartments lie within this beautiful Georgianbuilding, dating back to 1765 and situated in the historic villageof Branston, two miles south of the City of Lincoln and all itsamenities.Hainton House was built by the Curtois Family, who werepatrons and rectors of the Church and Parish of Branstonbetween 1680 and 1891, and after extensive renovation byLincoln based Developer, Castle Square Developments Ltd, thebuilding has entered a new chapter in its long and colourful life.Turned into Apartments in the 1930’s, two US Air Force Officerslived in the top floor Apartments during WWII.George Lockwood, A Director at Castle Square DevelopmentsLtd said: “Hainton House faced an uncertain future and requiredcareful restoration and imagination to bring it into the 21stCentury, whilst preserving the Georgian charm that made it suchan important building within the community.”With affordable prices ranging from £135,000 to £220,000and up to 1,230 square feet, the Apartments are an idealopportunity to enjoy grand country living with none of themaintenance worries associated with an historic building. VirtualFreeholds (999 year Leases) are available for all the Apartmentsand a Management Company has been set up to take care ofthe running and ongoing maintenance of the building andlandscaped gardens. Each purchaser will become a member of theManagement Company. A separate, two bedroom Cottage andGeorgian ‘Smoke House’ are also available.Tim Downing, of property agents Pygott and Crone said: “Thisis one of the finest examples of Georgian property in the Lincolnarea and its history is certainly something that has a wide appeal.It has been sympathetically restored and that has given it a newlease of life.”With high ceilings and double aspect views, every property isunique and comes with two allocated car parking spaces. <strong>The</strong>reare either Church or village views from the Apartments and alllook down onto the landscaped gardens to the North and South.Apartments have some or all of the following features: originalGeorgian cornicing, fireplaces, panelling, stained glass windows,double height ceilings and front and rear aspects. SeveralApartments have their own, private garden.New Homes Manager at Pygott and Crone, Mel Parker said:“<strong>The</strong>re is terrific local support for the project, serious interestfrom a wide catchment and sales are progressing well.”To view the Apartments or find out more, please callMel Parker at Pygott and Crone on 01522 518295 and visitwww.haintonhouse.co.uk.10 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


THERAF FFWILL SPEAKPASSIT ON01780 781650www.raf-ff.org.uk<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 11


Inside marquee,Licensed bar& foodraf waddington3 top UK tributes:TRIBUTE: KINGS OF LYON–| 5 local support bands:stark, the Visitors, spot onno releVance, stolen fridayssupported BySAT 07 SEP12.30-11.45PM @ Officers Mess Lawn, raf waddingtOnticKets frOM: the hive @ raf waddingtOnAdult (18+) £10.00 • YOuNG (10-17) £5.00 • CHIld (0-9) FREE • dOOR £15.00 (YOuNG £10.00)Bring your family picnics * * nO drinKs aLLOwed intO festivaL, Licensed Bar avaiLaBLe12 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


FUNNYFOKKERSBIGNIGHTOUT<strong>The</strong> bunting wasstrung, the staffwere standingby and thestage was set.Waddington Funny FokkerComedy Night had finallyarrived and Ravens Bar waspacked. <strong>The</strong> crowd enjoyed ano-holds barred comedy nightthat had them in its grip frombeginning to end.MC Chris Gilbert pulled theshow together with his cuttingwit and banter (yes, you shouldknow better than to sit in thefront row by now, people... )and well-known comediansTerry Alderton and Bob Millshad the crowd in uproar.We had the ‘Sold Out’ sign readyto put up, and ended up withonly six tickets unsold, whichis cutting it as fine as you canwithout turning people away.Many people commented onwhat a great night it was, andwanted to know when the nextTour would be. I don’t think wewill be struggling to sell ticketsnext time round!ISS Marketing andCommunications Manager,Tina Muncaster<strong>The</strong> greatest gift of all is the gift of LIFE…..We are here for YOU will you be here for US?Please support your local Air Ambulance.<strong>The</strong> Lincs & Notts Air Ambulancewww.ambucopter.org.uk - Enquiries@ambucopter.org.uk - 01522 548469Registered Charity No. 1017501<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 13


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Secure a brand new home inLincolnshire for 80% of its full price!Property-seekers in Lincolnshire are being offereda superb opportunity to snap up a stunning newhome for less with Taylor Wimpey!<strong>The</strong> Government’s Help to Buy shared equityscheme enables first-time buyers and those lookingto move home the chance to secure a propertyfor just 80% of its full price – and it’s available atthe leading housebuilder’s developments acrossLincolnshire.This sensational scheme means the customer onlyrequires a deposit as low as 5% and a 75% loanto-valuemortgage, which allows them to access amuch wider choice of deals from lenders offeringmore competitive rates.Mariana Knight, Regional Sales and MarketingDirector for Taylor Wimpey, says: “Help to Buymakes a huge difference to both first and secondtimebuyers who can afford the monthly repaymentson a mortgage but not the hefty deposit.“However, we are experiencing huge levels ofinterest in the scheme, so I’d advise anyone hopingto take advantage of this incredible initiative to visitone of our developments in Lincolnshire as soon aspossible – or risk missing out!”Help to Buy is available at all three of TaylorWimpey’s new homes developments in Lincolnshire:Oak Springs, Elsea Park, BourneTel: 01778 300604Pilgrims Chase, Wygate Park, SpaldingTel: 01775 660421Roman Fields, Juniper Way, Witham St HughsTel: 01522 305478Further information about Help to Buy and TaylorWimpey developments across the region isavailable by calling 0116 281 6470 or visiting thewebsite at www.taylorwimpey.co.uk/eastmids.<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 15


Air Commodore Fred West Victoria CrossA couple of days enjoying the rare sunshine in a beautiful churchnear Windsor all started with a simple tweet by @VCTrust...Being a curious personand never having heardof this charity, I had a lookat their website www.victoriacrosstrust.org.Air Commodore West VC?Why does that sound familiar?His grave was on the page asneeding urgent refurbishment.Air Commodore FerdinandWest; the First World War flyingace and Victoria Cross recipient,who had a German Gestapoprice on his head in the SecondWorld War, was the very firstRoyal Air Force Victoria Crossrecipient and just happened tobe on 8 Squadron at the time.Lieutenant Ferdinand MauriceFelix West’s Victoria Cross wasgazetted on November 8th, 1918- Ferdinand Maurice Felix West,Lieut. (Acting Captain), Royal AirForce (formerly of the SpecialReserve, Royal Munster Fusiliers).Captain West, while engaginghostile troops at a low altitudefar over the enemy lines, wasattacked by seven aircraft. Earlyin the engagement one of hislegs was partially severed byan explosive bullet, and fellpowerless into the controls,rendering the machine for thetime unmanageable. Liftinghis disabled leg, he regainedcontrol of the machine, andalthough wounded in theother leg, he, with surpassingbravery and devotion to duty,manoeuvred his machineso skilfully that his observerwas enabled to get severalgood bursts into the enemymachines, which drovethem away. Captain Westthen, with rare courage anddetermination, desperatelywounded as he was, broughthis machine over our lines andlanded safely. Exhausted byhis exertions he fainted, buton regaining consciousnessinsisted on writing his report.After a full RAF career, he diedJuly 7 1988 at Windsor andis buried in the Holy TrinityChurchyard, Sunningdale,Berkshire. His Victoria Crossis held by the Imperial WarMuseum, London.As a current member of 8Squadron, I wondered whatwe could do to renew ourassociation with what is afundamental part of ourSquadron and the Royal AirForce’s history. Tweets bouncedback and forth until a date hadbeen set and a plan of actiondecided upon. I gatheredtogether an intrepid band of 8Squadron personnel, with thesole aim of tidying up the graveof Air Commodore West VC.With lots of help and assistancefrom the Victoria Cross Trust wesoon found out that the graveactually needed professionalrefurbishment, so a ‘just giving’page was set up and withindays the required £1000 wasraised and the Victoria CrossTrust arranged for a stonemasonto carry out the work at thesame time 8 Squadron wouldbe at the site.This could have madethe need for 8 Squadron’sinvolvement defunct until asearch found out that the samegraveyard contained variousCommonwealth War GravesCommission graves. <strong>The</strong> VictoriaCross Trust gained permissionfor us to also tidy their gravesand we were back on! An earlystart at the beginning of Mayand a fair amount of timeparked on the M25 led ournow tired team to the gravesite in Sunningdale. <strong>The</strong> stonemason had arrived beforeus and had made amazingprogress turning what initiallylooked like stone back to thebrilliant white marble gravestone that was placed in 1988.16 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


Chief Technician Andy ‘Monty’Burden, Sergeant MichelleRuzzak, Corporal AndyNaylor, Senior Aircraftsman(Technician) Dan Howitt andSenior Aircraftsman (Technician)Nathan Cunningham all set offto explore the church yard andsearch out military graves. Withthe support of the vicar, his staffand the local community, the8 Squadron team managed totidy and clean 18 graves withknown links to all three services.With the café in the churchproviding copious amounts oftea and a seating area outside,the work was extremelyenjoyable and the task plannedto take 2 days was actuallycompleted on the first day.Throughout the day, GaryStapleton and DuaneAshworth, father of the latestVictoria Cross recipient LanceCorporal James Ashworth,carried out media interviewsto explain the work of theVictoria Cross Trust and thereason for the event. VictoriaCross Trust chairman, GaryStapleton said: “We areeternally grateful to those whosee the continued memoryof our military heroes as apriority, and who wish to helpus preserve their final restingplace in a state of utmostrespect. “We hope events likethis will continue across thecountry and that more andmore people get involved tosupport the work we do.”Ex MAPLE FLAGRAF Waddington personnel from 8 Squadron,recently participated in Exercise MAPLE FLAG atCanadian Forces Base Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada.This large scale, international,air combat exercise is heldannually and took place overthe period 27 May - 21 June13. Exercise MAPLE FLAGis one of the largest andmost advanced air combatexercises in the world.It was developed to enhancethe survivability and improvethe performance of Canadianand Allied fast-jet aircrew.Two E-3D crews, engineersfrom 8 Squadron and supportpersonnel deployed from RAFWaddington. In addition to theE-3D and assets from Canada,the exercise also involved aircraftfrom 13 other nations. Duringthe exercise, participants usedthe Cold Lake Air Weaponsrange which covers 1.17 millionhectares (7,250 square miles),the only tactical bombingrange within Canada. <strong>The</strong> vastunrestricted airspace, with nocivilian air traffic and morethan 640 targets, providesan ideal training area.Exercise MAPLE FLAG was theperfect opportunity to displayand test the unique capabilitiesof the E‐3D Sentry as well as themental agility of the 8 Squadroncrews. Using the complex onboardAN/APY-2 radar, crewswere able to detect friendlyand simulated enemy aircraftover the weapons range. <strong>The</strong>ywere then able to manage thebattlespace by directing friendlyfighters to target hostile aircraftensuring mission success.Operating in a multi threat,dynamic environment pushedboth experienced and juniorcrew members to the limit.<strong>The</strong> exercise scenarios slowlyincreased in complexity as eachphase progressed. Culminatingwith over 40 aircraft under E-3Dcontrol against a multitudeof ground and air threatssimulated by Canadian F-18sand civilian operated aggressorAlpha jets. <strong>The</strong> hard work ofboth engineering and supportpersonnel resulted in achieving19 of the 20 planned sorties.Throughout the exercise, theSquadron received an excellentlevel of support from the hostnation. Many experiences wereshared with our Canadian andAllied colleagues which helpedreinforce our bonds with partnernations. In fact, 8 Squadronmade such an impact with theCanadian Forces that when itwas time to depart back to theUK a lone Canadian piper arrivedat the aircraft unannouncedand insisted that everyone bepiped on board. As the soundof the bagpipes drifted acrossthe pan to the departing E-3D,everyone was able to reflect on asuccessful Exercise MAPLE FLAG.An evening in Windsor laterand we were up for a secondday but with little idea of whatto actually do – shouldn’t haveworried, Sue, the curate at Holytrinity Church had a long listof tasks that she wondered ifwe could help with and in true8 Squadron fashion the teamfired into them all. A busy andfulfilling couple of days wererounded off by the arrival of OC8 Squadron, Wing CommanderJim Beldon and the standardparty. A quick change in to No1s and standard party practice(Warrant Officer 8 Squadroncould have done with a littlemore!!) and the rededicationwas carried out. With wreathslaid by Officer Commanding 8Squadron and Duane Ashworthon behalf of the Victoria CrossTrust, the ceremony was a verypeaceful and personal affair.Now that 8 Squadron haverekindled links with our history,the Squadron is going to makean annual trip to maintain thegrave of Air Commodore WestVC and help with basic tasksaround the Holy Trinity Church.Does your Squadron have aVictoria Cross recipient? Is thegrave in need of help? Have alook at the Victoria Cross Trustwebsite and get involved.<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 17


8 SquadronAssociationReunionand HunterUnveilingOn 1 June, 8 Squadron heldthe first of many 8 SquadronAssociation events. <strong>The</strong> dayopened with the unveiling ofthe new 8 Squadron Huntergate guardian and was markedwith a Hunter flypast...Poignantly, Squadron Leader(retired) Tam Syme, the firstof the Squadron’s OfficerCommanding during theHunter era, had been able tovisit from the USA to markthis remarkable occasionand was there to witness themajestic Hunter, flying overRAF Waddington.<strong>The</strong> new 8 Squadron gateguard, Hawker Hunter XE620was the culmination of 4 yearsof hard work, led by FlightSergeant Barry Dobson and ChiefTechnician Powell, to replacethe 23 Squadron Phantom witha more appropriate figurehead,referencing the Squadron’s richoperational heritage. Thanksmust also go to the large teamof retired RAF personnel who soably restored the aircraft: GaryWatson, Mick Coombes, TerryRobbins, and Ben Bennet, whoseinvaluable enthusiasm andskills ensured the success of thisproject. 8 Squadron has receivedamazing financial support forthis project, and so to all of thosewho contributed to the ‘buy abrick’ scheme, thank you for yourgenerous support! Bricks can stillbe ordered for the area around theHunter through the 8 Squadronwebsite www.8Squadron.co.ukand we are hoping to start thebuilding of this important tributearea shortly. Again, many thanksto all who contributed not onlyfinancially, but also so generouslywith their time and effort. <strong>The</strong>auspicious occasion saw thecurrent Officer Commanding 8Squadron, Wing CommanderJim Beldon, join previous OfficersCommanding, Group Captain(retired) Tim Almond and SquadronLeader (retired) Tam Syme, inunveiling the aircraft in front of alarge crowd of 8 Squadron andHunter Association members andtheir families<strong>The</strong> day continued with visits tothe Sentry Dynamic simulatorand Station Heritage Centre withthe main events focused aroundthe newly renovated Squadrontea-bar and outdoor area - wherekind donations from the Nuffieldtrust had helped purchase newoutdoor furniture and BBQ set. ASentry aircraft helped set theperfect backdrop to the eventand, combined with the beautifulweather, helped set off an excellentday. For the evening the actionmoved to Lincoln, with a formaldining-in held in the Assemblyrooms. <strong>The</strong> evening was full ofrecollections of daring do andstories from 8 Squadron personnelold and new. Thanks must go toFlight Lieutenant Adele Brownwho was pivotal in not onlyhelping re-energise Squadron linkswith the Association but also inpulling together these two hugelysuccessful events. We hope theseare the first of many joint eventsto be held with the 8 SquadronAssociation, particularly as wenow look towards the 8 Squadroncentenary event in 2015.18 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 19


RAF Waddington International AirshowA Sky-High Success!‘‘This year’s RAF WaddingtonInternational Airshowhas once again been anexciting opportunity for allmembers of the family toview fantastic flying displays,equally engaging were thevariety of ground exhibitsshowcasing the work ofthe RAF and its partnerorganisations. I hope ourvisitors had a great day out atthe Royal Air Force’s premierairshow and I look forwardto welcoming everyoneagain to next year’s Airshowon July 5th and 6th 2014.Mr Paul Sall, Air Show director20 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


<strong>The</strong> RAF WaddingtonInternational Air Showhas proved to be ahuge success andby every account,Britain’s largest airshow this year.<strong>The</strong> weather was been fantastic over theweekend attracting more than 145,000visitors from across 5 continents overthe two days, all intent on enjoyingthe spectacular displays and exhibitsat the RAF Waddington Air Show.This year’s themes were the 95thAnniversaryof the Royal Air Force, the 70th anniversary ofthe Dambusters Raid and ISTAR 13. <strong>The</strong> Battleof Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster PA474showed off its new nose art and identity tomark the 70th anniversary of the founding of617 Squadron. It is now called DV 385, ThumperMark III. <strong>The</strong> raid was marked by a flypast by theBattle of Britain Memorial flight with TornadoGr4’s from the present-day 617 Squadron.ISTAR 13 showcased the information that is vitalto every force commander on the battlefield. Tosupply this resource, the Royal Air Force operatesa variety of aircraft equipped with world-leadingreconnaissance systems. Number 5 Armyco-operation Squadron celebrated its centenaryin July 2013. With these themes in mind it wasparticularly fitting that the Waddington-basedE-3D Sentry of 8 Squadron and the Sentinelfrom 5 Squadron provided the curtain-raiserto both days in this year’s spectacular air show.5 Army Cooperation Squadron also showedoff its new tailart to celebrate its centenary.With its unique and eye-catching flyingdisplay, the RAF Chinook won first prize forthe most polished display - demonstratingthe power and surprising manoeuvrability ofthe aircraft followed by the Breitling Xtreme.In the Static category the Belgian F16 wonthe first prize followed by the LoachOH-6A.UK Airshow Review’s founder andwebmaster, Paul Osborne, noted:“the weekend that saw a seismic shift in thelandscape of the British Airshow... helped bythe inspired booking of the Swedish Air ForceHistoric Flight’s SAAB Viggen – hottest, and mostmust-see diplay item in Europe.Waddington hasshown it can think big, and be big – let this be alesson to other shows this season and beyond.”<strong>The</strong> bar is raised and see you July 2014!<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 21


Supply Logs SqnMemorial GardenOn Thursday 2ndMay 2013 SupplySquadron held theirfirst BBQ in the newlyrefurbished MemorialGarden. <strong>The</strong> eventwas to bid farewellto Squadron LeaderGray and to welcomethe new OC LogsSqn, Squadron LeaderDaniela Nowalski.<strong>The</strong> Memorial Garden is a smallcourtyard area at the centreof Supply HQ, in an effort tobrighten the courtyard upSupplier Senior AircraftwomanClaire Boulter painted mural ofLincoln Cathedral.Sadly Claire was tragically killedwith her boyfriend Cpl ‘POB’ LeeHeads a Mover based at RAFBrize Norton in a road trafficaccident on 24thJune 2003. Inher and Corporal Lee Headsmemory the Squadron decidedto dedicate the courtyard asa place of memory for themboth. Unfortunately over theyears the affects of the weatherhad deteriorated the mural andgarden area.Sergeant Michelle Rees-Martindecided to lead the chargeof revamping the garden asshe knew Claire from whenthey had worked together inSupply at RAF Coningsby. Shestarted by organising a newbrass plaque for the Gardenwith additional photos of Claireand Lee provided by Claire’smother, Mrs Sandra Boulter.Not satisfied with a new plaqueand pictures Michelle alsoapproached the Amenities Fundin hope of getting money torenovate the courtyard areato create a tranquil garden inmemory of both Claire and Lee(‘Pob’). Successful in her questMichelle was granted £768.97 topurchase plants, flowers a picnictable and gas BBQ, which FightSergeant Mark Middleton andhis son spent many hours at aweekend building.To complete the transformationMichelle organised thepaintwork to be repaired andthe guttering was brokenand causing paint to peel offthe walls which was slowlydestroying the mural. With alittle extra help the team thendonned their scruffs and thework began painting the wallsand wooden sleepers, dug outall the old plants and weedsbefore re-potting plants tocreate a beautiful garden area.Mrs Boulter visited thememorial garden on 1stMay,she said: “I was amazed by itstransformation. It is brilliant, areally big difference. It’s so niceto see that the garden can beenjoyed by the whole Squadron.”Sergeant Michelle Rees-Martin“I would like to thank everyonewho assisted in creating thisbeautiful area. It has beenexcellent watching everythingcome together. Supply staffhave shown exceptional teamwork and along with theassistance of ESS personnelhave created a beautiful gardenarea in memory of both Claireand Lee for years to come.”By Sgt Michelle Rees-MartinSNCO Assurance/LFP, Logs Sqn22 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


BEFORENationalCitizen ServiceAFTERNational Citizen Service (NCS)is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunitythat helps young people buildskills for work and life, whiletaking on new challenges &meeting new friends.Year 11 and 12 students (and 16 and 17 year olds not ineducation) can develop the tools and belief to unlock theirpotential and make a positive impact in their communities.NCS gives thousands of young people across England the chance to:• Meet other young people from all backgrounds and tackle outdoorchallenges on an exciting residential week away from home.• Join with local businesses and social leaders to learn new skills forwork and life and discover more about their area.• Make their mark by developing and delivering local volunteeringprojects that matter to them.NCS takes place over several weeks (out of school time) in spring,summer or autumn. It features a short time away from home anda project in the local community. A focus on social mixing, regularguided reflection and social action projects led by young peoplemakes NCS a unique and fulfilling experience.For more information, please visitwww.ncsem1.org.uk and sign up!Brochures will be available in the HIVE, or contact Flt Lt KennyHemlin (Station Schools Engagement Officer) on Ext 6142.<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 23


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Sixth Form boarding at one ofEngland’s top State schools<strong>The</strong> Robert de Cheney BoardingHouse is situated in the grounds of <strong>The</strong> PrioryAcademy LSST, an academy in Lincoln whichis consistently among the top five performingnon-selective State schools in the country.It provides a wonderful opportunity for SixthForm students to develop and flourish, bothacademically and socially.• Academy and Sixth Formratedoutstanding by Ofsted• 99% A-Level pass rate(three subjects)and 99% GCSE pass rate(5+ A*-C, including Englishand Maths)• 83% first-choice universitysuccess rate, with 27% ofYear 13 students obtainingRussell Group places• Modern, home-from-homeboardingcomprising 60 single ensuitestudybedrooms with internetaccess• Kitchen, dining area andlaundryplus a Common Room oneach floor• Designated Sixth Formsupport and pastoral staffto ease the transitionfrom school to university,employment andindependence• State-of-the-art Sixth Formscience facility,with research laboratories,a planetariumand a debating chamber• Spectacular sportsprovision including a60m indoor sprint trackand a 400m syntheticoutdoor running track, plusexcellent field athleticsfacilities• Swimming pool, fitnesssuite,climbing wall, spinningsuite,dance studio andbadminton courts• Stunning residential centrein Normandy• Thriving CCF, DofE andpastoral programmesTo arrange a visit or to apply for a 2014 place, contact Mr Chris Liston (Head of Boarding)<strong>The</strong> Priory Academy LSST, Cross O’Cliff Hill, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN5 8PWTelephone: 01522 889977 l Email: boarding@prioryacademies.co.ukVisit: www.prioryacademies.co.uk/boarding<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 25


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Growth continues at Sir William Robertson Academy<strong>The</strong> highly successful Sir William RobertsonAcademy is celebrating a very excitingacademic year following the introduction ofits new Sixth Form last September. Morethan 100 pupils have applied for places in theSixth Form for September 2013. <strong>The</strong> School,which also became an Academy in 2012,offers comprehensive education for 11-18year olds. Sir William Robertson is quiteunique with its safe, rural location betweenthe villages of Welbourn and Leadenhamin Lincolnshire but easily accessible fromLincoln, Grantham, Sleaford, Newark andsurrounding villages – with school busesserving each of these areas.Mr Mark Guest, Head Teacher is delightedby the Sixth Form uptake and commented:“<strong>The</strong> school is driven by the aim to ASPIREand this directs the work of all staff andpupils. In recent years the school has becomeone of the most sought after schools inLincolnshire, with parents recognising thebenefits of choosing a very successful schoolin a safe, rural setting with superb pastoralcare. <strong>The</strong> addition of the Sixth Form facilitymeans that parents are confident that theirchildren can continue their education in thissupportive environment with high academicresults. ”<strong>The</strong> school was praised in its most recentOfsted inspection for attention it gives to thecare and support of its pupils with studentsand parents overwhelmingly testifying to this.Students speak highly of their teachers andthere is a strong sense of community at theAcademy. In a recent Keele University survey,97% of pupils say they are happy at the school.Sir William Robertson is constantlypursuing high academic standards and, as aresult, exam results have increased in termsof 5 or more A*-C grades from 53% in 2006to 92% in 2012. This has led to the schoolachieving the ‘Most Improved Schools Award’from the Specialist Schools & Academies Trust.<strong>The</strong> school is extremely well-resourced,has a rich and vibrant artistic life, and hasdeveloped high levels of participation in sport,with 22 available to pupils including archery,kickboxing and lacrosse.Sir William Robertson Academy alsoprovides many opportunities for thedevelopment of its pupils’ education beyondthe classroom, including visits and charitableprojects overseas. Pupils with a positiveapproach to learning, highly committed staff,and supportive parents have between themcreated a good school that aspires to beoutstanding in every area of its work.Potential pupils and parents are welcometo visit, either individually or by attendingone of the series of Open Days/Evenings on16th/17th and 18th September and a SixthForm Open Evening on November 7th.Further details about life at the schoolcan be found on the website:www.swracademy.org<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 27


Waddington’s4-ship at 1Group AwardsRAF Waddington once againreigned supreme at the 1 GroupAwards’ Dinner on Thur 11 July,held at HQ Air Command.<strong>The</strong> ‘Waddington Double’ in2012, gave Waddington theOperational Performance (14Squadron) and EngineeringExcellence (Senior EngineeringOfficer 8 Squadron) Awardsafter only being in the Groupfor less than 7 months. RAFWaddington doubled theirefforts yet again this year to walkaway with not 2 but 4 Awards.<strong>The</strong> evening flowed in atypical Dining-In Night format,entertaining officers from every1 Group Station includingForce Commanders and StnCommanders and attendedby sponsors of the Awardsthemselves. Wing CommanderJayne Casebury, OfficerCommanding Base Support Wingat RAF Waddington, and SquadronLeader Dave McRitchie from HQAir Command, led the Ceremony(Oscar-style) and announced 15Award Recipients ranging fromOperational Command to <strong>The</strong>People Award, and EngineeringExcellence to Force Development.Group Captain Al Gillespie, StationCommander Waddington proudlyreceived the MOB ExcellenceAward from BAE Systems, awardedto the MOB making the greatestcontribution to 1 Group (andthe wider Defence and RAF28 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


community) throughout theyear. In addition he collectedthe inaugural Dowding Awardon behalf of Flight LieutenantSimon Bowes (14 Squadron,RAF Waddington) for hiscontribution to the developmentand advancement of air powerknowledge within No 1 Group. <strong>The</strong>Waddington 4-ship also featuredWing Commander Al Marshall,Officer Commanding V (AC)Squadron, receiving <strong>The</strong> DacreTrophy, sponsored by the DacreFamily and presented on theirbehalf by Air Vice Marshall Atha, AirOfficer Commanding 1 Group. <strong>The</strong>trophy was awarded to the bestoverall Squadron within 1 Group.Wing Commander John Stowell,Chief of Staff FHQ, RAF Waddington,also received the Staff ExcellenceAward from Lockheed Martin UK.A good night was had by alland RAF Waddington proudlywalked away with two individual,a Squadron and a Stationaward representing the uniquecontribution made by Intelligence,Surveillance, Target Acquisitionand Reconnaissance (ISTAR) andRAF Waddington. <strong>The</strong> StationCommander was quick to passon his congratulations to all thoseacross RAF Waddington who havehelped make the last 12 monthssuch a success. Well Done!RAF WaddingtonGolf Clubin association with StoneacreVolvo Lincoln Help for HeroesOn a warm and balmy day withlight winds and clear skies...No that did not happen, itwas cold very windy andvery wet when a few bravesouls played golf as part ofthe Volvo National Golf ClubChallenge competition insupport of Help for Heroes.<strong>The</strong> RAF Waddington GolfClub and Course in associationwith Stoneacre Volvo Lincoln,hosted the competitionopened to all golfers. <strong>The</strong>weather was less than perfectbut despite that, some goodscores were recorded. <strong>The</strong>sescores will be forwardedto the Volvo National GolfClub Challenge organisingcommittee who will take thescores from other participatingclubs; the club with the best5 scores will go forward toregional finals and shouldthey again be successful, tonational finals to be held at theTurnberry Resort in September.In conjunction with the golfcompetition is an associationwith the local Volvo dealerto raise awareness of thework of Help for Heroesand to raise some moneyfor this very worthy cause.With RAF Waddingtonmember’s contributions andthat of Stoneacre Volvo, amagnificent sum of £600 wasraised and will be forwardedto Volvo National GolfChallenge organisers to beadded to the money raisedby other clubs and handedto Help for Heroes at theTurnberry finals.I would like to thank theRAF Waddington Golf Clubmembers for braving suchan awful day to play andcontribute to the fundraisingeffort and to Stoneacre Volvofor their support to whatturned out to be a fantasticeffort by the small band ofRAF Waddington Golf Clubmembers.Sqn Ldr WoolfsonOIC RAF WaddingtonGolf Club and Course<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 29


Catering for yourBusiness or Private FunctionNow in our 14th year of providingfabulous food in Lincolnshire• Garden now open• Finest quality home-made food,hot or cold• Affordable prices• All dietary requirements catered for• Choice of menus or choose your own• Use of our welcoming café foryour celebration or party,seating for 40 people• Air conditionedLittle Stars Day Care Childminding is based inBracebridge Heath and also offers:Flexibility for shift workers and studentsOvernight, Evening and Weekend CareSchool Holiday PlacesSchool run to St John’s Primary AcademyPlaces currently available!Opening hours: Mon to Fri 7.30am – 6pmPlease contact Donna regarding placementand fees on 07580 319063littlestarsdaycare.org.ukweekly in: Boston, Lincoln,Newark, Grimsby, Spilsby,Scunthorpe, Gainsboroughand Nocton30 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


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Wrightway Motorcycles & CarsMotorcycle & Scooter M.O.T’sWe service and repair cars too!Fully Qualified Master TechnicianUnit 5, 1 Sadler RoadLincoln, LN6 3RSTel: 01522 698487Mobile: 07725347338Email: wrightwaymc@gmail.comwww.wrightwaymc.comLincoln’s No. 1 Motorcycle Repair CentreWe also offera full collectionserviceSERVICING EXCEEDSMANUFACTURERSSTANDARDSINSURANCE APPROVEDACCIDENT REPAIRSSPECIALIST ENGINEERSREBORING etc.ROAD & MOTOR CROSS TYRESBEST PRICES IN AREAMoTTestingLincoln01522 52382014 Clifton Street, Lincoln. LN5 8LQ (alongside Pelham Bridge)ClassiClandroversLEARNERDRIVINGCENTRES<strong>The</strong> unique system of tuition isso sucessful at getting people throughtheir test, we’ve become the 3rd largestUK driving school in just a few years.British Classics * Heritage MotorsParts 1948 to dateretail Trade exportspecial Projectsrestorations • ManufacturingCountry Workshops, Risegate,Nr. Spalding,Lincolnshire, England, PE11 4EZTel/Fax: 01775750223www.british4x4centre.co.ukPass withand share in our sucess!First 5 lessons for £60!Discount on normal hourly rateavailable for military personnel.To book contact Mick Smith onTel: 07979 912740 / 01673 860853Email: info@passwithmick.co.ukWebsite: www.passwithmick.co.uk32 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


14 Sqn UpdateAs usual there’s been no let up in the tempoof business on 14 Sqn as we move fromspring into the beginnings of summer....With the current OperationalConversion Course nearlycompleted, we have a furthertwo crews fully ticked upand with their ‘golden ticket’in hand, are now ready fordeployment!B Flight are finishing offthe copious amounts ofdeployment paperwork andwill be in for the hot stint overthis summer, so stay safe andapply the sun tan lotion!<strong>The</strong> pilots have been out inWichita, Kansas for a week,working with Flight SafetyInternational doing RecurrentSimulator Training. For most,there is likelihood to end upspending half a months wage inthe local mall and definitely eattoo many buffalo chicken wingsand steak! Aside from this, theinstruction gives invaluablesimulator training and hasbecome an integral part of ourdeployment routine.Further to our training, theSquadron has been involvedin Ex PASHTUN SABRE up innot quite so sunny OtterburnRanges! This comprises workingwith troops on their PreDeployment training, givingthem a bird’s eye view on whatthey would expect to receivein Afghanistan when workingwith similar airborne assets.With the surprisingly semidecentUK weather we hadover the previous coupleof months, there has beenscope to include someAdventure Training andForce Development days inamongst our hectic schedule!In commemoration of theDambusters 70th anniversary,Flight Lieutenant Tim Gillettand Flight Lieutenant Penneckorganised Ex DAMBUSTERSPURSUIT. This involvedmountain biking aroundLadybower Reservoir withvarious chats on the raid itself,stopping at points along the30km route. All off nicely witha well earned drop of ale whilstsitting in the sun at the LadyBower Inn that overlooks thewater. Furthermore, SergeantNick Everingham organiseda squadron golf afternoon inthe hope to get even morecompetitive spirit goingbetween the Engineers andAircrew! I think the Aircrewwere boasting so much abouttheir handicaps that it scaredthe Engineers off (they say theyhad too much work on, fixingthe aircraft we managed tobreak…) Yeah, yeah! A greatafternoon was had laughing atsome interesting shots!Further to one of the previouseditions, Flight LieutenantBall will pick up the story ofCrusaders FC half way throughtheir inaugural season in theLincoln City 6-a-side league…After a less than auspiciousstart Crusaders foundthemselves in a very favourableposition at the midpoint of theseason, two points off the topof the table and promotion avery realistic possibility. <strong>The</strong>momentum that had builtover the opening two monthstook a serious dent however,when they were beaten by theleague leaders with five gamesleft to play. Crusaders could notafford to dwell on this defeatif they were to achieve whatmany believed impossible atthe beginning of the year andsecure promotion into leaguetwo, and they duly restoredtheir confidence with a victoryin the very next fixture. Threematches to go and Crusaderswere back in the driving seatfor that second promotionspot, and with the team gellingmore every week they wenton the win all their next twomatches, meaning they neededonly a point to secure secondspot! A trophy, medals andmore importantly the chanceto play at a considerably higherstandard next season awaitedCrusaders as they joyously leftthe pitch, 2 nil victors on thefinal night! Division One awaits!Finally, a huge congratulationsto Corporal Rachel Mills who’shard work, diligence andputting up with us lot has paidoff! Rachel has been promotedand will be moving downto RAF Brize Norton for hernext post. Furthermore ourbeloved Senior EngineeringOfficer, Squadron Leader ClaireFelipes is also moving on fromthe illustrious 14 Squadronto pastures new. We wish youboth all the best and will besad to see you go! That’s allfrom 14 Squadron, have agreat summer!<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 33


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of Waddington,your local supermarket serving the local community.• Fresh Fruit & Vegetables• Fresh Meat,Poultry & Fish• Fresh Dairy Produce• Chilled Ready Meals• Lunchtime Snacks• Freshly Baked Bread• Home delivery• Cash Dispenser• Celebration Cakes(to order)• PayzoneBar Lane, Waddington Lincoln01522 721970• Cream Cakes• Groceries• Frozen Foods• Wines, Beers & Spirits• Newspapers & Magazines• Flowers & House Plants• Carpet Cleaning• Glass Loan• National Lottery• Extended range nowavailable• Free ParkingConvenient opening hours:Mon – Fri 8am – 10pm Sat 8am – 9pm Sun 10am – 4pmMajor credit cards accepted.Convert your skill, experience and training into a internationally recognised civilianqualification with an ILM certified course at RAF WaddingtonLM Leadership and Managementaward level 2 £175ILM Leadership & Managementaward level 3 £750 & level 5 £950ILM Coaching award level 3 and NLPPractitioner £1500ILM Coaching and Mentoring certificatelevel 5 and NLP Practitioner £1700NLP Practitioner only(not ELC eligible) £795Starting an On-line Business & ILM Enterprise &Entrepreneurship level 3 £1500Continuous Improvement manager - ILM level5 qualifications in Service Improvement &Leadership & Management £22501 - 2 Oct 20132 - 4 Feb 20149 - 12 Sept 201310 - 13 Feb 20147 - 10 Oct 2013 (Part 1)4 - 8 Nov 2013 (Part 2)3 - 7 Mar 2014 (Part 1)7 - 11 Apr 2014 (Part 2)14 - 18 Oct 201312 - 16 May 2014Feb March 2014We are fully approved so you can use SLC’s, ELC’s or Resettlement grants to fund trainingAll courses are available at RAF Coningsby on an ‘as requested basis’.Please speak to TDF for details.£250 discount if 2 courses are booked togetherFor further info contact your Learning Centre or Inspired2Beon 01522 501886 or email info@inspired2Be.com


• Hairdressers• Airbase HD Airbrush Make Up• Tanning & Waxing• Aromatherapy• Massage & Facials• Weddings, Balls, Promsand in October will present their own hair showto an audience of 1000 hairdressers at Excel inLondon during the weekend of Salon International.Often described as a ‘life changing experience’ bythe team members, this year marks the 8th yearof Inspirational Youth. Highly respected withinthe professional hairdressing arena, InspirationalYouth has developed from an original conceptby iconic hairdresser and TIGI founder, AnthonyMascolo whose philosophy is to identify andsupport emerging talent. This year the Teamare to be mentored by senior TIGI InternationalCreative Team members including TIGI GlobalCreative Director, Nick Irwin, TIGI EuropeanCreative Director, Akos Bodi, TIGI EuropeanSession Director, Maria Kovacs and TIGI AcademyCreative Director, Philip Downing. Other mentorsinclude TIGI’s in-house photographers, TIGI showdirector, TIGI Global PR and TIGI Casting Director.Lauren Dickinson from Studio 11 Hair & Beautyin Waddington has been selected for a placein the 2013 TIGI Inspirational Youth Team.TIGI has announced the Inspirational YouthTeam 2013. <strong>The</strong> 10 talented young hairdresserschosen for this year’s Team will begin an excitingjourney to develop their skills. Over the next 5months they will undergo intensive training inall aspects of hairdressing including advancedcreative cutting and finishing, colouring, sessionstyling and product knowledge. <strong>The</strong>y willalso be introduced to the world of fashion andphotography, learn stage and presentation skillsDuring training sessions the Team are filmedto show their progress. <strong>The</strong> final film will beplayed as background during their show.<strong>The</strong> 10 young hairdressers arrive as individuals butquickly develop into a strong team, working togetherand supporting each other. <strong>The</strong> selection processfor this year’s Team was particularly competitive,each applicant had to send in a full resumé witha filmed interview to support their application.Training begins in early June at Bed HeadStudio and the TIGI European Academy,both located in Battersea, South London.42 Bar Lane, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9SA01522 720415Opening Times: Tue - Wed 9:00 - 5:00 Thurs - Fri 9:00 - 7:00 Sat 9:00 - 1:0036 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


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Padre’sPieceOne of my colleagues at RAFCosford, in the days before DCAECosford, frequently remindedme that he was born in the greatprincipality of the Red Dragon.Your Chaplaincy Team:Kevin HartSenior Chaplain01522 727063Alex HobsonCoE Chaplain01522 727081Dawn ColleyCSFC Chaplain01522 728539Ezra YatesChaplains’ Assistant01522 727039To you and me we call itWales. He wasn’t too proudof his roots because he wouldregularly make fun of theWelsh people, particularlythe native language;“Welsh is the language of heaven,because it’s no earthly use!”For the linguists among us, andI’m not just thinking about 51Sqn, you will have noticed thatthe crest on the left of this pagecarries a motto written in Latin.And you thought Welsh was adead language! Very few schoolsteach Latin, and it is no longer arequirement for pharmacists tobe able to understand it, so I don’texpect many of you to jump upimmediately with the Englishtranslation. I do expect most ofyou have understood part of thetranslation, and therefore realisethat the motto speaks aboutministry and chaplaincy.<strong>The</strong> English translation of the RAFChaplains’ Branch motto is – Toserve, not to be served.If you listen to a couple ofcomputer geeks talking to eachother, or two RAF personnel usingjargon to speak about their life andwork, or listen to gangster, street orgraffiti talk, you might understandmore if you were listening to Welshor Latin being spoken. <strong>The</strong> problemis that languages can sometimesblock our understanding; churchlanguage can sometimes makeus feel like aliens visiting a strangeplanet, it sounds so different to theway we talk every day. Some ofthe older translations of the Bible,though beautiful to those whogrew up with them, can make usthink that Jesus has nothing goodto say to us today.When you get close to anotherperson you don’t need languageany more, you seem tounderstand what the other personis thinking before they speak.You know what makes that otherperson tick, what they’re afraid of,what they hate doing and whatthey enjoy. You know somethingof what they’ve been through,what they can cope with easilyand what they find very hard. Youalso know when to respect theirprivacy and space, and whento go looking for them. All thisand you haven’t even spoken aword yet.RAF Chaplains are proud of theirmotto and the new ChaplaincyTeam for RAF Waddington andScampton know the importance oflistening, sensing, seeing and beingalongside people as colleagues,confidants, and friends, even beforewe say anything. Our promise toyou is that we are here to serve, notto be served. Oh, that’s not just ourpromise to you; it also applies tothose close to you as well.Yours, as ever, Padre Kevin.Independent FInancIal advIceat RaF Waddingtonorried about your retirement planning,your savings need reviewing orWdo you need insurance to reflect yourcurrent needs? We can help.Independent Financial Adviser Alastair Rush, servedfor over 20 years in the RAF and understands yourconcerns. For expert advice, insight and empathy,contact us for a free and friendly discussion.Call today01572 897311 / 07887 422275advice@yourwealthcare.co.ukwww.echelonwealthcare.co.uk18A Leicester Rd, Uppingham LE15 9SDEchelon Wealthcare a trading style of Wealthcare (1985) Ltd is anappointed representative of <strong>The</strong> Whitechurch Network Limited whichis authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.“Somepeopledon’t knowwhat they’redoing at2020 hours,let aloneIN 2020”Unicorn TreeBooks & Crafts<strong>Online</strong> Shopwww.lincolnbookshop.co.ukBooks, Gifts, Jigsaws,Crafts & MoreSpecialist , New & Pre-lovedBooks, Dvds, Music, Stationery,Religious Books& Supplies,Candles& More!We also offer:Mail OrderBook SearchesOrdering ServiceUS ImportsLoyalty Scheme35-40 LincolnCentral MarketSincil Street,Lincoln LN5 7ET01522 525557unicorntreebooks@aol.comwww.lincolncentralmarket.co.ukwww.lincolnchristianbookshop.co.ukwww.jigsawsandmore.co.ukADMIT Services Ltd.Tel: 0845 30 20 40 4Advice on Private Alcohol andDrug Detox and Rehab Clinics• Free advice on private rehabclinics in the UK & abroad• Immediate access to treatment• Free referrals & assessments• Rehab clinics from £500 to £5000 per week• Large discounts availableCall Keith or Louise:0845 30 20 40 4or Mobile: 07971 3824938 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays,9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sat & Sun.www.admitservices.co.ukADMIT is member of the Referral Agents’ Federationestablished to ensure the appropriate and ethicalreferral and treatment of addiction patientswww.referralagentsfed.org.ukD&M T WINGMobile towbar fitting serviceWitter, Brink, & PCT Towbars supplied and fittedVan Ply lining and extra seat fitting.Service discount available01529 306670Mobile 07740 683867Email dandmtowing08@btinternet.comUnit 3, Pride Court, Sleaford Enterprise Park,Sleaford NG34 8GLWeb dandmtowing.co.ukBroken, leaking or blocked gutteringat your home or business?Conservatory roof needing cleaning or fixing?Don’t know who to call?GUTTERCLEANSECAN HELP!• Emergency call out• Gutters cleaned and repaired• Yearly health checks of your guttering• ConservatoryFull Public Liability InsuranceNo job too small or too bigCall Dave01529 41038007877 362941To advertisein thispublicationCall Jo01536 52667438 <strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE


<strong>Insight</strong>MAGAZINE 39

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