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Spring 2013

UniT WELFArE OFFiCES | AAC & rEME UniTS | MOD pOLiCE | HEriTAgE COrnEr

THE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE OF

WATTISHAM FlYING STATION

AlSOPAdrE’S COrNErHIVE NEWS

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The eagle | 05The eagle | 04

From the Editor: Lt Col (Retd) RW SILK MBE Station Staff Officer

advertising by: Kayleigh, Tel: 01536 526666

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The views expressed by the contributors to The Eagle magazine are not necessarily

those of the Editor; MOD, or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All

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ThE EagLE Contents

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19 08

ThE EagLE Contents

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A s I write this short note in mid - March, I am sure that everyone is looking forward to Spring, despite the fact that the airfield is covered in snow and its freezing outside!

The Spring edition of the Eagle again covers a multitude of activities for Wattisham personnel back at the home base, on operations, training and sport. Again I would like to thank all contributors of articles for the Eagle, your community magazine, which not only provides valuable information to all serving and working at Wattisham, but to the wider Suffolk community as well. A reminder for your diary is the annual SSAFA Triathlon, which will be held on Saturday 11 May 2013 at Wattisham Airfield when some 400 entrants are expected.

The editorial deadlines for subsequent issues of the Eagle in 2013 are as follows:

Remember wherever you are serving you can view The Eagle on-line at: www.theeagleonline.co.uk Tip – click on Magazine to view recent issues.

Summer Friday 17 May 2013

Autumn Friday 16 August 2013

Winter Friday 8 November 2013

06 I Foreword

Introduction by Colonel Andy Cash, Station Commander, Wattisham Flying Station.

08 I 3 Regiment aaC

News and updates from 3 Regiment Army Air Corps, including Alpine Skiing and Basketball.

13 I 4 Regiment aaC

News and updates from 4 Regiment Army Air Corps including change of Commanding Officer.

18 I 7 air assault Battalion ReMe

News and updates from 7 Air Assault Battalion REME.

14 I 6 Regiment aaC (V)

News and updates from 6 Regiment Army Air Corp (Volunteers).

20 I B Flt 22 (SaR) Sqn

News and updates from B Flt 22 (SAR) Sqn RAF Search & Rescue.

31 I The hIVe

News and updates from the HIVE.

24 I Welfare Matters

News and updates from the various Unit Welfare Offices.

34 I MOD Police

News from Wattisham’s Defence Community Police Officer.

Editorial:Tel: 01449 728210 Email: [email protected] editorial deadline for the next issue (summer) is Friday 17 May 2013

HQ Wattisham Flying StationWattisham Airfield IPSWICH, Suffolk, IP7 7RA


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ThE EagLE gLIdES

Introduction by Colonel Andy CashCommander Wattisham Flying Station

W ith the extended Christmas and New Year

break just a distant memory, the Spring edition of the Eagle heralds in a challenging year for all those serving and working at Wattisham, and hopefully a return to warmer weather, albeit as I look out of the window in mid-March the whole airfield is once again covered in snow! Again, there has been so much activity at Wattisham that it is impossible to cover everything that has been achieved on operations, training and sport, not forgetting the various community engagement events at all levels back at the home base and in the wider county area.

I was delighted to see that Wattisham Flying Station were the winners in the Armed Forces Category of the Stars of

Suffolk Awards held at Suffolk New College in February, with special recognition being made of B Flt, 22 (SAR) Sqn RAF for their gallant work in the Search and Rescue category. We have also played an active part in developing work arising out of the recent signing of the Suffolk Armed Forces Community Covenant, which has already improved our communication with Suffolk County, District and Borough Councils, and promises to provide many advantages for us in the future. It is also pleasing to see that MoD funding has been approved for a new Childcare Centre build at Wattisham to replace the dilapidated portacabins – this is an important development given our isolated location. The Wattisham Military Wives Choir, now one year old, has also developed into a first class group and has achieved a great deal in spreading our footprint

across Suffolk and wider. My thanks go to Sally Wilkinson for her outstanding efforts in successfully launching the Choir with her small team, for which she has recently been formally recognised by the award of a Station Commander’s commendation.

Of course all units and organisations have continued at their own hectic pace, with Lt Col de la Rue (CO 3 Regt AAC) and 622 Sqn returning from successful tours of duty on Op HERRICK and 663 Sqn now deployed. The CO of 4 Regt AAC, Lt Col Etherington was finally posted after a most successful period in command and has been replaced by Lt Col Bisset – the regiment now faces many challenges, including maintaining readiness for contingency operations worldwide, as well as building up to HERRICK again. Meanwhile 7 Air Asslt

Bn REME have again been involved in all manner of deployments to Afghanistan and exercises in the UK, the USA, Canada and beyond. As you will see from various unit notes in this edition, despite the hectic pace of operations and training, all units have managed to keep their people involved in sport and adventure training, including skiing, rugby, football, field gun teams, basketball and much, much more.

Finally, I was delighted to see that LCpl Symonds 4 Regt AAC won the Dannett Trophy 2012 for being the best AAC soldier, whilst a well deserved formal commendation from Commander Land Forces was awarded to Capt Condon AAC for his sterling efforts in preparing the aircrew of 4 Regt AAC for Op ELLAMY.

Inspiring all to a lifelong love of learning!

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Primary SchoolTelephone: 01473 823268 Fax: 01473 822777

Email: [email protected]: www.stmaryshad.co.uk Headteacher: Mr A. Frolish

We invite you to visit our friendly, welcoming school to see how we develop children into successful learners and caring members of the community.

Please contact the office to find out more about our school or arrange a visit.

St Mary’s Church of England Primary School is a vibrant, Christian school, in which all children achieve well and are inspired to a

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3 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS 3 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS

Capt Davison, Capt Howard, Lt Watkinson, Airtpr Cardwell, Airtpr Jones & Airtpr Ramwell.

L eaving Wattisham very early on a Friday morning, the team were half way across

the Channel by the time the rest of the Regiment were on CO’s PT. A long journey down to Switzerland, carrying 48 pairs of skis between 3 and 4 Regiment, we arrived in the small, yet rather affluent, village of Verbier a day before the other Regts. We immediately hit the slopes as Verbier had seen record snowfall over the few days before. We were the only ones there, which was probably a very good thing. Capt Davison’s first day of skiing, under the somewhat shabby tutelage of Lt Watkinson, resulted in an outstanding wipeout on to some hidden rocks and ice, thankfully caught on video.

The official training started on the Monday morning. We had some expert ski instructors; some of which had represented Switzerland. The conditions were so spectacular that race training

had to be delayed to give some of the less experienced skiers a chance to try powder (pow), and to let the more advanced skiers try some real back country off-piste (totally rad sick pow).

Ex WHITE KNIGHT is an almost historic exercise, celebrating it’s 30th year next year. It combines the Royal Armoured Corp’s and the Army Air Corp’s ski teams and acts as the training camp prior to the Divisional, and potentially the Army or even Tri-Service Championships. The exercise has always been held in Verbier; a resort that is considered one of the most exclusive in the world. It is well furnished with après ski bars, pubs and night clubs; in turn, this provides an extra challenge to the soldier’s early morning physical robustness and young officer’s management skills.

A couple of days into the exercise, the snowfall was sufficient to shut the entire resort. The majority of the exercising troops were then

3AAC Alpine Ski TeAm29 OCT 12 - 23 Jan 13

looking forward to getting some ‘admin’ sorted, but the ski instructors had a better idea. An ‘Ice Hockey’ competition between the 13 Regiments, without skates or real hockey sticks. Due to Airtpr Cardwell and Lt Watkinson’s Ice Hockey experience, alongside Airtpr Jones’s lack of self preservation and Capt ‘the enforcer’ Howard’s wish to upset or break every other member of the exercise, 3 Regt came out on top with a Capt Davison penalty in extra time to seal it. 3 Regt started well; it could only go downhill (pun intended) from here.

The first 3 weeks prior to Christmas stand down was general ski practice, building to race training; something that no one from the 3 Regt team had ever done. The exercise, although it sounds like a walk in the park, was a relentless beast. There was rarely ever any time for relaxing, and within a couple of weeks the injuries started. Airtpr Jones, was the first to crumble.

After skiing like a maniac for the first portion of the exercise, he fell whilst taking his skis off at the bottom of the slope, breaking his wrist. The Regt’s best chance of a Downhill medal had gone. Exactly one week later, Airtpr Ramwell slipped on some ice on the way back from a team meeting, breaking his leg. The divisional team of 4 had been selected for us.

Christmas leave came and went in just 4 days and we were into racing. There are 4 disciplines that we race: Slalom, Grand Slalom, Super G and Downhill (skilful, quite skilful, quite scary and completely mental, respectively). The majority of our competition had officers and soldiers who come back each year, so are well practiced at all events. The aim of 3 Regt therefore was as per usual.... beat 4 Regt!

After the initial seeding, it looked competitive. Lt Watkinson was well in the top 20 and the others were fighting with 4 Regt

for places in the middle of the pack. The first event was slalom; Capt Davison was competing with the other novices and came out on top, winning best novice. The other events followed, again, competitive each time. On the Downhill, the chief instructor, Davide, built a spectacular jump that the top skiers would pass at over 80 km/h. Thankfully there were only 5 serious injuries, with one helicopter evacuation, which didn’t frighten to many of the new skiers. During the race period Capt Howard picked up a minor boo boo, and was immediately flown back to the UK.

At the end of Ex WHITE KNIGHT, the team of 6 was down to 3; this meant that if anyone missed a gate or wiped out in the divisional competition, the team were out. Also, we lost out to 4 Regt due to some poor gate keeping decisions in Verbier. We did have a chance for revenge though at the divisional Ex SPARTAN HIKE in Serre Chevalier.

We left our beautiful chalet in beautiful Verbier, driving south to Serre Chevalier in France. As a resort, it lacked the ambiance that Verbier had, and held a somewhat aggressively serious atmosphere, with little opportunity for entertainment. We were there for one reason though, to beat 4 Regt; if we got a medal it was a bonus.

The structure of the exercise was similar to Verbier, but the courses were physically a lot more challenging; in some cases, twice as long as before. Prizes in Serre Chevalier were a bit more swept up, with either a gold or silver medal in a presentation case, engraved with the event and category. Capt Davison knows this the best, as he won 3 Gold Medals. Top Slalom, Downhill and overall Best Novice. In the Downhill, he got a time that beat most of the well seasoned skiers, coming 13 out of 135, even managing to beat Lt Watkinson, who still disputes the result as a glaring error in timekeeping.

Due to Airtpr Cadwell’s determination to climb back up the slope twice to get in a recorded time, Capt Davison’s exceptional improvement and Lt Watkinson’s solid performances, 3 Regt destroyed 4 Regt and justice was served.

The exercise, although quite expensive for the Army and held over Christmas, was thoroughly enjoyed by all and everyone agreed that it was well worth it. It’s a fantastic opportunity for all ranks and exposes younger elements of the Regt to something that would be almost impossible to afford outside of the services. It is an unforgiving exercise, which does test the courage, commitment and discipline of all abilities and ranks.

A n incredibly busy three months have seen the Regiment firmly

settle into its operational stride with the second of our three squadrons now committed to Op HERRICK. We welcome back 662 Sqn Gp from their well-earned post-operational tour leave and wish 663 Sqn Gp continued success for the rest of their tour.

2012 was a demanding year for the regiment and 2013 looks set to be no different. Although the Apache Force has served in Afghanistan for over 6 years, the situation there is constantly evolving and we are integrating the lessons learned by the 662 Sqn Gp’s experiences into our operating and training practices. Our primary goal in this task remains the delivery of the AH Force capability on operations. 653 Sqn Gp are now entering the final phase of their pre-deployment training with exercises in the UK and Arizona. In addition we are looking towards the future, ensuring we retain our capability as a highly effective and adaptable force in preparation for the challenges of contingency operations.

I am constantly aware of the burden that ongoing operations place on the Regiment, and am hugely appreciative of the steadfast efforts of those who

Commanding Officer: Lt Col T E de la Rue AACSecond in Command: Maj M J Brown AACAdjutant: Capt R J Simcock AACRegimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) J Bayliss

3 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS

keep the regiment running and support the deployed forces from home-base. It is our highly commendable ability to adapt and work under these conditions that makes us so successful every time we deploy. To our families and loved ones I can’t stress enough how grateful we are for your unwavering support, and I hope the Christmas break was enough time to say thank you to our families for that support.

Within the regiment we have kept up our commitment to sporting and adventurous training activities. At the Divisional Skiing Championships Capt Davison had great success, eventually winning the Top Slalom, Downhill and Overall Best Novice Medals, despite skiing for the first time only 5 weeks before. Our sporting prowess has also been evident on the rugby field where Cpl Chennell has been selected to represent the Army Rugby Union against London Scottish RFC and Cambridge RFC.

I would like to thank Major Hayhurst for his lasting contribution to the Regiment and wish the best in his next role and promotion. Finally I wish you all good luck for 2013 and ask that we keep in our thoughts those deployed and their families at home.


3 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS 3 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS

HQ Sqn 2IC, Capt Hayward, who played for the Corps in his earlier years,

entered a 3 Regt AAC Basketball Team into 5 Division Basketball tournament in February 2012 at the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, in Grantham. It was a nine team competition, of which we managed a well deserved 5th position. To that end, after an encouraging and what we thought was a successful tournament, we put together a Wattisham Station Basketball Team, which is growing in popularity. During the training sessions, we identified enough AAC players to build a Corps Basketball Team for the Army Inter Corps Competition scheduled for November 2012.

Training at Wattisham continued since then, taking place every Monday afternoon and Thursday evening with the team coaches LCpl Kansonkho

(HQ Sqn) and Airtpr Webb-Ireland (662 Sqn). The training focused on both our offensive and defensive games and developing individual skills and fitness. During training, the AAC team would play friendly matches against other cap badges helping to improve our overall game.

With the support from the Corps, we entered an AAC Basketball Team into the Army Inter Corps Basketball competition, again in Grantham. Alongside the continued training at Wattisham, Capt Hayward, with the support of the Wattisham Gym Staff, put together a training camp held in the week prior to the competition. This gave us the chance to bring in and, more importantly, train with players from around the Corps. The training camp consisted of an hour of swimming each morning followed by a tactics session; then in the afternoon,

It has been a long time since the AAC entered a team into the Inter Corps Basketball competition, the last time was in 1999. The sport is continuing to gain popularity within the Armed Forces; mostly due to the relentless efforts of the British Army Basketball Association.

offensive and defensive training sessions and finally a practice match each evening. It was hard work but much needed training for the team.

The Inter Corps Basketball championship itself was divided into two divisions. The AAC team expected to play in the 2nd Division, but to our surprise we found ourselves in Div 1! In Div 2, we thought we had a great chance to succeed; but knowing the teams in Div 1 consisted of Army level players, it looked as though we would be in for a tough competition.

Our first game was against the AGC, the eventual championship winners. In short, we played four games and lost all! We played against the Royal Engineers, Royal Artillery and Royal Logistic Corps. We may have lost our games but we did earn respect on the court. Knowing the level of players we were up against, we changed our

objectives. We wanted to learn as much from the competition as we could, and take away lessons from which we would develop our game for next year’s Division and Inter Corps competitions. We averaged 40 points or more in every game; our fitness and defensive work was good, but we will need to improve our offensive skills – i.e. putting the ball in the basket! Our performance was respectable and we stepped up to the challenge, showing the competition that we had heart.

It has been a long time since the AAC entered a team into the Inter Corps Basketball competition, the last time was in 1999. The sport is continuing to gain popularity within the Armed Forces; mostly due to the relentless efforts of the British Army Basketball Association.

by LCpl Kansonkho

Army Air CorpS BaSKETBaLL TEaM

Early last year HQ Sqn trained and revalidated Motor Transport (MT)

personnel qualifications so they could deploy as members of Arming Teams in support of Ex CRIMSON EAGLE, whilst those remaining few maintained a Regt’l MT. The MT personnel performed as well as the flying squadron’s arming teams receiving a lot of positive feedback. This goes to show the AAC’s flexibility still exists.

The Training Wing planned and executed numerous training events but focussed on contingency exercises. Ex SUFFOLK WARRIOR 01/12 was an infantry style exercise with personnel living in field conditions – no Tier 1 or 2 accommodation; just a poncho, ration packs and what they could carry! The focus was on re-teaching and developing lost soldiering skills; basic fieldcraft and section battle drills that lead to a platoon attack on the final day. Ex SUFFOLK WARRIOR 02/12 moved from boots to vehicles, continuing to develop those skills. Convoy drills,

camouflage & concealment and vehicle anti-ambush drills were the main training objectives. The success of those exercises and an appetite for more has lead to additional ‘One Day War’ exercises being planned. Landing Point Commander and Rigger Marshaller training, a forgotten Corps skill in the AH environment, has been brought back to life with revalidation courses run by our Helicopter Handling Instructors under Cpl Hurrell. All this with our eye still firmly on Op HERRICK, pre-deployment training and MATT training.

The Quartermasters Departments and Medic Centre continues to provide the high level of support. With issuing operational clothing to those personnel and flying squadrons deploying, the introduction of the new General Service Respirator and normal daily routine whilst they continued to work late and hard preparing the regiment for the annual external inspections. The long hours and hard work paid off with successful passes in all our inspections.

It’s not just work, work, work! We have seen some success stories and achievements in the sporting world. Rugby, football,

basketball, golf, snowboarding and skiing to name a few! Thanks must go to all the Sporting Reps; without them these events wouldn’t take place and our soldiers wouldn’t get the opportunities. Of note, we have had two Army Snowboarding champions, representation at Corps Rugby, a Women’s Football player, Aviation Golf Championship runner up and team winners, and a world champion weightlifter, all just from HQ.

In essence, a short snap shot of Op HERRICK, Contingency Training, Final Training Exercises, Sports and Inspections; this has been a busy period (I said it and I apologise) for Headquarter Squadron. It comes to no surprise that HQ Sqn continues to provide the essential support that enables the flying squadrons to deliver their effectiveness on exercise and on Ops, achievable by the flexibility and professionalism of HQ Sqn pers.

Lastly, a farewell to Major Dave McGee AAC, after a long career in the Army Air Corps. We wish him and his family all the best for the future from all ranks serving in the Corps particularly from 3 Regiment HQ Sqn.

3 regimenT Army Air CorpShEadquaRTER SquadROna quICK ROund-uPby Captain Leon hayward aaC

We learnt a lot that will prepare us for next year’s competitions. LCpl Kansonkho and Airtprs Griffiths and Webb-Ireland, have gained coaching qualifications so we can continue to develop our skills as individuals and as a team. We are looking forward to the next challenge and of course are always on the look out for potential players at all levels, so please spread the word and get in contact.

This has been an interesting and diverse period for Headquarter Squadron. I won’t go on about how busy we have been because the whole regiment has been going no-stop! However, each and every person in Headquarter Squadron should be proud of their achievements and the level of support we have provided and continue to provide.

4 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS

Commanding Officer: Lt Col C Bisset MBE AAC. Second in Command: Major S De Labilliere AACAdjutant: Captain HV Goodley AACRegimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) R Drake

The eagle | 12 The eagle | 13

fig 1

On arrival my immediate impressions were of a superb team

of people, delivering highly valued capability at the very leading edge of defence. My concern was that the forecast of events for the first half of 2013 looked incredibly busy, with key exercises taking place in February, March and April and the long exercise in the USA (Ex CRIMSON EAGLE) also happening over this entire period. The team in the regimental headquarters have done their best to try and trim this down wherever possible and minimise the time our people are required to spend away; we have already had some

Happy New Year to all of you and I hope the extra week of Christmas leave was a welcome respite from the recent relentless workload. After a short period away I am both delighted and privileged to be back at Wattisham and in command of 4 Regt AAC. My thanks must go to my predecessor, Lt Col Jason Etherington AAC, for a short but very comprehensive handover and for leaving the Regiment in such good health.

success in achieving this. Secondly, we face a blizzard of change as further unpalatable redundancies and cuts take place in the next 2 years. As the Army continues to reduce down in size to the target of 82,000 regular soldiers, it would seem that there is no let up in the demands made on Army Aviation and it is highly likely that we will be among the last of the force elements to leave Afghanistan in 2014.

As we draw down in Afghanistan there is now also a growing requirement to be ready for contingency operations anywhere in the world and this will need a change in mindset. Right now this means that a large

portion of the Regiment, not committed to upcoming Afghanistan rotations, are at 5 days notice to move for a whole range of scenarios. Uncertainty is definitely uncomfortable and can wreak havoc with family commitments but, we need to accept that that it will be increasingly the norm as the Army starts to look beyond operations in Afghanistan. 4 Regt AAC already leads the way on this, stunningly underlined by the delivery of the operation in Libya (Op ELLAMY). We will build on this success and aim to emerge from this period of change ready for the challenges ahead.

My congratulations go to a few regimental personnel on recent

successes; LCpl Symonds was awarded the 2012 Dannatt Trophy, presented annually to the best soldier in the AAC and Captain Marc Condon was awarded a Commander Land Forces Commendation in the New Years Honours List for his work in preparing aircrew from 656 Sqn and 664 Sqn for Operation ELLAMY. Captain Sarah Burke led the only AAC detachment of Nordic skiers on this season’s challenging competition circuit.

Continuing sporting success for the ladies include netball (Lt Jo Binns, Airtprs Drafahl and Carter) and Capt Lee-Smith, who was in the winning team in the Inter Corps Indoor Hockey competition.

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677 SquadROn aRMY aIR CORPS (VOLunTEERS)6 REgIMEnT aRMY aIR CORPS (VOLunTEERS)

Commanding Officer: Lt Col NA Banks AACTraining Major: Major MSA Green AACAdjutant: Captain BE Jones AACRegimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) WV Cooper

T here were two main options for crew: Sailing courses conducted in the

Solent or mile building cruises out of Ipswich.

Both yachts, Trochus and Syrinx, started off in the Solent cruising and running courses. After the first week came the time for Syrinx to depart Ipswich, but the weather had different ideas. After three days of sheltering from Force 8’s heading the wrong way, the crew of the Syrinx went for it and 48 hours and one inflated lifejacket later arrived, soaked through, at the wrong marina (this

one just happened to be closer to the bars). Apart from that the weather was particularly good, considering the time of year, and some brilliant sailing ensued.

There were many minor issues that arose: The sail that didn’t want to be a sail due to an ill fitted car, the boat that didn’t want to be a boat due to a leak, the replacement boat’s VHF radio that didn’t operate on VHF (or any other F for that matter), the skipper who’s crew needed 3 bottles of wine for “cooking” purposes, the mystery non-flusher of toilets which turned out to be a broken valve, the crew members who arrived bang on time

to the wrong location (170 miles away), the boat that decided to hop out of the water and onto the mud for a short “rest”, the attempted rescue of said boat by the coastguard (in a car), and last but not least the festiduous handover/takeovers for the REME yacht. But through some high quality bodge jobs, hard work, and the abuse of 6 AAC’s abundance of Assistant Adjutants none of these managed to de-sail the exercise.

Finally after 6 weeks of dodging super tankers and sandbanks day and night and a trip to France where the yacht in question returned considerably lower in the water than when it had departed (said to be due to an ingress of liquid other than water), the last crews jumped onboard the two yachts. The Trochus (it had

been fixed since the incident of water being where it should not) went for a final cruise in the Solent accompanied by a course on one of the REME’s Halberg Rassis. The Syrinx went to depart from Ipswich but once again the weather, this time heavy fog, held the crew there for two days. Setting off on Wednesday morning as the fog cleared, with the brilliant advice from the Nautical Almanac to avoid sea mines at all costs and take special care not to prod them with a boat hook, the crew shot round the south east coast in 36 hours including a short stop in Ramsgate.

The yachts all arrived safely back into Gosport and were scrubbed down ready for a slick handover to their owners and Ex: Dragon Sea Eagle was complete.

Exercise Dragon Sea Eagle was a Sailing Expedition run by 6 AAC (V) involving two and sometimes 3 yachts sailing at different locations in England and France over 6 weeks.

W e would like to thank you for your outstanding efforts and

contribution towards making 677 Sqn what it is today. To celebrate their departure could only mean one thing, Regimental Dinner, and a good excuse to dust off the Mess Dress, Black tie or dresses for the ladies and throw some shapes on the dance floor.

Cpl Julie Hardingham worked extremely hard to ensure that the event was a great success and Maj Scott was seen off in a befitting manner. Thank you to LCpl Charlie Wilson for getting the name places done in a fancy laser print, and to Cpl Daz Elston for his expertise in making the Regt marches happen and operating the disco in to the early hours. Not too sure about “Agadoo or “Doing the time Warp” though. Unfortunately Capt Jones and WO2 Greengrass,

could not make it, and 48 guests were called to dinner, which included a member of 655 Sqn, taking part in the driver training weekend, who quickly made his way down to ASDA and purchased a new jacket for the occasion. (Pictured on the right above)

A mention must go to “Madame Vice” Airtpr Vikky Hebborn, who performed her duties extremely well, even though she was set up do all the toasts etc in a broad Norfolk accent, which I can only assume that WO2 Fred Savage had a hand in it. Lastly I would like to welcome Maj Tex Bennett to 677 Sqn, who has already made his mark in getting the Squadron ready to deploy as a self sufficient sub unit. Again thank you to all those that made the function a great success and we hope that all those who have recently left 677, find happiness in their new ventures.

I would like to start by saying, on behalf of 677 Sqn, we are sad to see the departure of Maj Les Scott, moving over to 3 R Ang, Capt Trevor Jones who moves to the Un-posted list, and WO2 Brian Greengrass who has come to the end of his illustrious career.

Finally I will leave you with some of the images that may haunt you for some time!

REgT dInnER nIghT

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The eagle | 16

7 aIR aSSauLT BaTTaLIOn REME

Commanding Officer: Lt Col CJ Platt REME Second in Command: Maj D Reeves REMEAdjutant: Capt MPD Massey REMERegimental Sergeant Major: WO1 (RSM) G Matthews

71 aVIaTIOn COMPanyScribe: Cpl Farres

The past few months have been a very busy period for 71 Company, with manpower being distributed across many areas of army aviation. This has seen technicians arriving and returning from Op Herrick as the Company continues to support 3 Regiment, 32 Artillery and 657 Squadron working on platforms such as Apache, Lynx 9a and Hermes 450.

The company has also been involved with numerous Aircraft moves which involved

In Wattisham things never stop…… This is certainly true for the resident REME Battalion, in between sweeping snow and defrosting spanners, there has been plenty to occupy ourselves with and for those lucky enough, there was even the chance to see some sun.

technicians escorting the assets to Afghanistan on a C-17. Upon arrival, the technicians would spend two weeks on the rebuild, and also the dismantling of Aircraft due to return to the UK for depth servicing. With Aircraft returning from operations and long term exercises such as Crimson Eagle, Intimate Support Company has been inundated with work and additional manpower was provided to speed the process of post-desert maintenance.

For the few technicians that remained in the UK, there has been opportunity for them to attend useful courses

such as Gazelle and Lynx Mk 9a equipment courses, driver training and advanced maintenance practices.

On Herrick, they also found time to build such creature comforts as giant hammocks, swing chairs and a wooden hut to rest from the intense heat, although rustic in design they served a much needed purpose and improved scavenging and hand skills.

Christmas was as eventful as ever, with a football tournament being held between the Officers, seniors and juniors. It was the seniors that dominated this year with them winning both games.

72 aVIaTIOn COMPany Scribe: LCpl Priestley

& LCpl Gledson

72 Company has transitioned from the Operations Phase of the Battalions 8 month cycle to Intimate Support Company (ISC) in September, we have settled into our new routine and are carrying out the work required to support flying operations abroad and in the UK.

Moving into the ISC phase has meant that we have taken over the responsibility of carrying out scheduled maintenance on the Apache as well as carrying out Pre and Post desert operations. Due to the high tempo flying taking place on flight line, 72 Company has also been providing a number of personnel to support maintenance activities. This

The eagle | 17

7 aIR aSSauLT BaTTaLIOn REME

enables flight line to maintain a high number of aircraft available for planned training flights, exercises and operations.

A recent example of this was when a substantial amount of 7 AA Bn technicians, including 13 members of 72 company assisted 4 Regiment AAC in an aircraft move to RAF Brize Norton, which involved preparing 8 Apaches for air transportation to California for Ex Crimson Eagle.

While committing much of the work force to this aim, many soldiers have been able to attend a variety of equipment courses including; Wildcat in Yeovil, Lynx Mk9A and Gazelle in Arborfield and Unmanned

Aerial Systems (UAS) in Israel. This 4 week UAS course aided 72 Company personnel in preparation for a deployment to Afghanistan in April 2013. During the course there was the opportunity to do a bit of sight seeing around Jerusalem and the Dead Sea. Other fortunate technicians have also been able to get away to places such as Canada supporting Gazelle in BATUS and also a detachment on Op Lansbury in RAF Odiham supporting Special Forces. Several JNCO’s also recently spent 2 weeks in STANTA in Thetford, successfully completing their JCLM Part 1 which will prepare them to take the next step in

their careers and take on more responsibility and leadership roles within the Company.

On returning to the UK, after 6 weeks of post operational tour leave, adventure training was organised for those who toured on Herrick 16 with 4 Regiment AAC on Apache and 9 Regiment AAC on Lynx. The activities included; Paintballing, Go-karting and Hill walking. This enabled the troops to return rested and ready to work.

2012 ended with a joint Christmas function with 71 Company in Ipswich, arranged by CPL Gargan and LCPL Hume, allowing the two Companies to wind down ready for the festive period.

Continued >>>

The Company has also been involved in a variety of sports by forwarding a number of footballers to the Battalion team, competing in the Intercompany Cross Country and Swimming. Also, once again, LT Orchard (RN) and AQMS Hembery are gearing up the Field Gun team by leading from the front, ready for another successful campaign.

Due to operational commitments, 71 Company may not be able to take over ISC in May as expected and 72 Company may need to continue working in ISC until well into June. If this is indeed the case 72 Company will continue to operate as a professional team and endeavour to maintain our high engineering standards.

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7 aIR aSSauLT BaTTaLIOn REME 7 aIR aSSauLT BaTTaLIOn REME

The eagle | 19

73 aVIaTIOn COMPany Scribe: LCpl Wooderson

Over the Christmas period and the beginning of 2013, 73 Company has taken part in a range of exciting activities and training packages. As support to training, we’ve deployed as multiple teams to Brize Norton to prepare aircraft for transportation to and from theatre and Crimson Eagle, also a team was dispatched to Castle Martin to recover a grounded aircraft from an exercise it was involved in.

Ex Supreme Glacier, taking place in Nov/Dec of 2012, was an exercise located in Stubai, Austria, that consisted of multiple people from the company taking part in a choice of sports, these choices being

Alpine skiing, snowboarding or telemark skiing. The chalet we stayed in was fantastic with great facilities and lovely surroundings. The first day was spent being assessed by the instructors, the abilities ranged from beginners to advanced and by the end of the week everyone came away having learnt something new. The skills that we had been taught were put to the test at the end of the week with a race, which included some very appealing prizes and a sense of achievement to go with it. All round this was a very good exercise with lots of laughs and a few mugs of mulled wine to go with it, this lead us nicely into the Christmas period.

In the build up to Battalion Christmas day the company took part in their own Christmas function, this entailed a festive

meal, plenty of drink and the officers smashing out their best moves on ‘Just Dance’ on the Nintendo Wii. The night was ended with a raffle prize giving where people won a tablet pc, camera and even £250. Also over the Christmas period there was a Battalion Christmas day, this involved a 0700 wake up call to ‘gun fire’, followed by football, carols and a sit down meal where the officers served us.

January 2013, the company focused in on operational deployments, those deploying in May started the year with a brisk week in Folkstone for their pre deployment training. This involved a week of varying serials focused around close quarter combat, a sanger shoot and a pistol shoot, this kept us all interested as it was a completely different

experience to what we know as a normal range. This was followed by a CT exercise in Beckingham, Organised by the Platoon Commanders and CSM, it involved: orienteering, Matts training and a late night Navigational exercise, this was quiet challenging due to the adverse weather conditions. The group then moved on to an optag package based out of Wattisham learning centre, over the two day course we endured multiple lectures and endless PowerPoint presentations which ultimately were really beneficial to those of us that haven’t deployed to Afghanistan before.

On the whole the company is looking forward to deploying and the class 2 technicians can’t wait to develop their skills and experience new things.

132 aVn SP Sqn RlC Scribe: Cpl Oyugi

Ex COUGAR 12 was one of the major highlights on the 132 Aviation Supply Squadron RLC calendar in 2012. The Squadron is the only RLC unit that supplies aviation spares and was deployed during a two month long exercise on HMS Illustrious in the Mediterranean in support of 656 AAC Squadron.

HMS Illustrious also known as ‘Lusty’ by the ship company serves as the UK’s high readiness helicopter and command carrier operated by the Royal Navy. Ex COUGAR was an exercise deployment testing the newly formed Response Force Task Group (RFTG). The force is designed to respond to rapidly unfolding world events and is a Tri-service organisation. The exercise also served as a platform for inter-relation among other Nations forces to ensure that

they could cooperate on a military level in the future.

132 Avn Sup Sqn’s main task during the exercise on the Mediterranean was to support the Apache Fleet on board the HMS Illustrious. This is made possible by ensuring a fully stocked Deployable Spare Pack (DSP) goes anywhere the Fleet is deployed. This proved to be a very challenging task to ensure that we could provide the right spares at the right time to ensure that the REME could keep the fleet serviceable. The major limitation experienced during Ex COUGAR was spares replenishment once the DSP had been utilised. Being that we were not on land and could not get the spares required on time proved very frustrating to everyone involved, but taught us all valuable logistic lessons. Ex COUGAR also served as a learning curve for the Squadron, we were able to work together

with the Navy suppliers as a joint team to overcome some of our handicaps and also to share our working knowledge and skills for future deployments.

Even though the HMS Illustrious was running a tight operational schedule, and after successful Exercise Corsican Lion which saw the Royal Marines train alongside the French forces in amphibious landing on the French Island Corsica supported by the air assets, we docked in France to allow for stores replenishment for both the ship and all the embarked forces.

On a winning note, due to the hard work undertaken by the whole 656 AAC 4 Regt Wksp Squadron and support provided by 132 Avn Sup Sqn, to ensure that all the Apache fleet were serviceable, there were some major achievements to note. For the first time Apache gunships fired Hellfire from the deck in

UK waters and they flew 160hrs from the deck carrying out 225 deck landings.

Finally, It was time for HMS Illustrious to come back home, before that she arrived in Malta for a five day visit. The previous Illustrious has a long standing history with Malta. Over the period the locals were invited to the ship for a public tour which turned out to be a very successful public relation event. Adventure Training packages were also organised by both the ship company and 656 Sqn during our stay at Malta.

On the 31st December, HMS Illustrious docked in Portsmouth and we were finally back on dry land after a successful Ex COUGAR 12. Another triumph by 132 Avn Sup Sqn proving that it is always at the fore front of aviation support and up to the task to support its fleet whether on land or at sea.

fig 3Officer Commanding: B Flt Sqn Ldr Penny GraysonSecond in Command: Flt Flt Lt Jon Hill

The winter months have brought a great deal of excitement for B Flt 22 Sqn, Wattisham’s resident Search and Rescue Flight. Some exciting jobs coupled with a number of visits and trips have kept us all busy, even over the Christmas period.

December saw the flight visited by STANEVAL, the team responsible for

monitoring the standards of all Search and Rescue flights in the UK. The visit was a great success with B Flt performing to a high standard, thanks to the efforts of all on the flight.

On 4th February, Flt Lt Laura Hearnshaw managed to pass her Op Captaincy Check, which saw her become a fully fledged Search and Rescue captain. Her check involved a number of challenging scenarios, including homing to four beacons which had been dropped into the North Sea, two of which were attached to live ‘survivors’ whom she had to rescue! She was also made to conduct a search, operate in confined areas, and carry out a low level navigation route. The long, challenging trip was a success and we are pleased to congratulate Laura on her achievement.

On 9th February B Flt was given an interesting rescue, which happened to be Flt Lt Hearnshaw’s first as captain. Rescue 125 was tasked to an

oilrig, ‘Seafox 4’, about 40 miles off the coast of Gt Yarmouth, where an oilrig worker was suffering with a suspected pulmonary embolism. The Sea King landed on the rig to collect the patient, and transferred him to James Paget Hospital. This goes as a stark reminder as to the versatility of the Sea King, and the value of a Search and Rescue capability. There are many oilrigs in operation in the North Sea, and oilrigs are dangerous places to be. Many hundreds of employees live and work on these rigs many miles away from dry land, and it is inevitable that sometimes they need urgent medical care. Without the use of a Search and Rescue helicopter as operated by B Flt, the injured or ill would be facing a lengthy boat ride before being able to receive the appropriate medical care. Fortunately for this worker, we were on hand.

Also in February was a visit by the new Search and Rescue Force Commander, Gp Capt Mackmin. Again the visit went

very well, and a great opportunity to meet our new Force Commander and to have our questions regarding the future of the Search and Rescue Force answered. Needless to say, there were a number of social activities involved as well!

In January, five members of B Flt travelled to Saalbach-Hinterglem, a ski resort in Austria, to partake in the annual RAF Alpine Championships. The two weeks spent in Austria were a great success and fantastic fun to those who were lucky enough to attend, whether seasoned skier or relative newcomer. Flt Lt Hearnshaw, who seems to be having a good few months, even managed to pick up a silver medal in the ‘Improvers GS’ race!

We have also welcomed to the flight a couple of new faces. Flt Lee Docherty returns to Wattisham as a Search and Rescue pilot after a stint at Chivenor. We also say hello to Sgt Duncan Bowden, a winchman, who is new to Search and Rescue having joined us from the Chinook Force. We’re sure they’ll fit in well.

So, once again it has been a busy few months for B Flt, as was most of 2012. We finished the year having had 159 jobs, with 83 people assisted. In fact, we were the 4th busiest RAF Search and Rescue Flight! Lets hope 2013 continues as it’s begun, with lots of both success and excitement… except maybe an improvement in the weather!

The eagle | 20

B FLT 22 (SEaRCh & RESCuE) Sqn RaF

Finally Wattisham were the winners in the Armed Forces category of the Stars of Suffolk Awards, held in Ipswich.

The eagle | 20 The eagle | 21

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The eagle | 24

3 REgIMEnT AAC unIt welfAre offICe

B ack to regimental life, our final welfare trip for 2012 was to Colchester Zoo on

the 9th December. The weather on the day was cold but kind, the children and parents alike thoroughly enjoyed what was on offer. Santa even took time out of his busy schedule to spend time in the Zoo’s Grotto, unfortunately due to high demand not everyone got to meet the man in person and collect a gift. Before returning home all were treated to a Christmas dinner at ‘Frankie and Bennys’ with all the trimmings. Would highly recommend Colchester Zoo to all regardless of the weather and I look forward to my next visit in the near future.

Homecoming

In preparation of 662 Squadron returning from operations at the end of January 2013 we held a Homecoming Briefing at the Community Centre at Wattisham Airfield on 12 Jan 13. WO2 ‘Buster’ Alexander slaved away in the kitchen all day ensuring no

unIT WELFaRE OFFICES

Welfare Contact Details

Office Tel: 01449 728321Emergency other than

999 services: 01449 728220 (Guard Room)

E-mail: [email protected]

Twitter @ 3AACWelfareFacebook: Threeaac

Welfareofficer

Capt Carl VickersUnit Welfare Officer

WO2 Buster AlexanderUnit Welfare Warrant Officer

LCpl Laura FittonUnit Welfare Driver

Well done to the wives for managing to get out of bed the following morning to drop the kids off at school and not to forget Rachel the Mess Manager for putting up with my humour.

one went hungry with plentiful amounts of bacon sandwiches and pancakes on the menu. The day consisted of the mandatory briefing for the spouses of those deployed, children’s entertainer, banner making, t-shirt printing and face painting courtesy of Mrs Tracey Alexander, thank you. All were very much excited about their loved ones returning home and were better prepared for the homecoming. LCpl ‘Laura’ Fitton who recently attended and passed the Unit Welfare Assistants Course at Colchester was tasked with the organisation and had done an outstanding job, well done.

Afghanistan Deployment

663 Squadron assumed command of the AH Detachment on 28th January 13 on a 4 month tour of duty. From a welfare perspective the preparation had started many months previously. Families and deploying troops were briefed accordingly and pre deployment administration completed as planned. It’s always a very upsetting occasion when a family member departs on tour especially for the children and hope the efforts of my team can ease the pain. We have planned many trips to keep our families busy utilising the much appreciated and deserved Families Welfare Grant (FWG), see itinerary below:

Welfare Matters

The Welfare team is dedicated and committed to the welfare needs of the 3 Regiment Army Air Corps family and attached personnel. Please don’t hesitate to establish contact if you have any concerns no matter how small. As always we can be relied upon to operate in the strictest of confidence ensuring confidentiality is rigidly maintained. For those

deployed, stay safe and I look forward to greeting you home in the near future.

Welfare Trips Overview

To avoid disappointment ensure you reserve your places early and turn up on the day. Please note priority will be given to deployed families but the remainder of 3 Regiment Army Air Corps and the other Wattisham Units are welcome to come if spaces are available.

653 Squadron is the last of our squadrons to deploy to theatre departing in May 2013 and returning in September 2013. This will conclude a 12 month cycle on operations for the regiment before handing over the reigns to 4 Regiment Army Air Corps.

6

5

4

1

2 3

The eagle | 25

4 REgIMEnT AAC unIt welfAre offICe


Here are some useful numbers: Agility Logistics: For When you need to book your removals https://grms.agilitylogistics.com08442821465

Steve and Tammy Cleaning 07775 86063001449 678086 L and K Cleaning 01473 61063001449 678086

Ideal Cleaning0800 0387833

Pre March out and housing enquires: 0800 1696322

Welcome to 4 Regiments January edition of the Eagle, January has been relatively busy for the team, mainly dealing with a lot of housing issues. Housing is relatively easy if you act quickly, as soon as you know you are posted let the Welfare team know so that you are on our radar and we can assist and advise on any potential issues.

Below is a basic flow chart of what you should do when moving house.

What are we doing in the meantime?

Well, the next deployment will be with us later this year, we are already planning your trips, they are getting better and better. If you want to come on the trips then please get hold of your loved one and remind them that when they are booking out they need to answer “Yes” to us being allowed to contacting you, whilst they are away, if not you will not be receiving any text or emails advertising our trips.

Our trips offer you a great day out, it’s also a chance to talk to the team about any issues that you may have whilst your love one is away... you can also get to meet other wife’s who are in the same boat….

Welfare Contact Details

Email: Welfare_House @Hotmail.co.uk

Office Number 01449 72 8421

Emergency Number 01449 728220 (24 Hrs)

Call the unit welfare office on 01449 728421 and let us know that you are moving.

Fill out an e1132 Housing Application Form online, you need your

JpA Assignment order for this process.(google e1132)

once you have applied online you must bring a print out, of your

application to the Unit Welfare officer (UWo) so that he can stamp and sign

it and fax your application through.

yoU now own the application process, call the wHASk (0800 0387833) and Confirm that your fax has been received.

Depending on your personal circumstances you will usually get an offer of an address within 10 -15 days, this is not set in

stone as everybody has different needs.

once you have received your address you can then call the Welfare Team to discuss your removal options (if you are

eligible).



7 aIR aSSauLT Bn REME unIt welfAre offICe

Wattisham Station Christmas Party

This years Children’s Christmas party was again a huge success, organised by our industrious Community Development Worker Claire Lowe with help from our very own SSgt Stu Evans. The latter had brilliantly decorated the community centre with a fantastic array of Christmas decorations kindly financed by our brilliant SSAFA in-service committee. It was held within the community centre and this year families from Hadleigh came to enjoy the fun and the prospect of seeing 4 Regt AAC UWO – Captain Frank Worthington dressing up as Santa. He faced Stiff competition from SSgt Evans

as he was needing a practice run for his guest Santa’s appearance at Ringshall school the following week!

Captain Cotton managed to divert away from being Santa’s ‘little’ helper and instead took up position from behind the lens, taking numerous photographs of terrified children on Santa’s lap. Jeanette was on hand to try to reassure the kiddies, but some were past comforting!

Wattisham Helping Fijians in Need (WHFN) - Fiji Draw

A community close to Captain Cotton’s heart is the WHFN drive, which raises money annually to assist in the help and education of

In ‘welfare terms’ the team has enjoyed a rather quiet period since the last article was written. This is always good to allow the batteries to recharge over Christmas leave ready for the pace to pick up again in the new year. With time to reflect upon the last few months, the stand out events have been the following:

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” – Nelson Mandela -These words were reiterated at the Wattisham Helping Fijians In Need finale Charity Event on Sat 9 Feb 13 which was also the Raffle Draw Night for the big prize of 2 return tickets to Fiji and a weeks accommodation at the 5-star Mana Island Resort which included transfers by South Sea Cruises. The raffle raised a total of £11,230 beating the target of £10,000 of

WaTTIShaM hELPIng FIJIanS In nEEdwhich 10% of the profits will be donated to SSAFA and 90% of the profits will be used to educate underprivileged children in Fiji.

Education is a key element for development in this growing western society and WHFN recognised the need to support even if just a few children in their most basic educational needs. The task certainly seemed impossible, to be able to sell as many tickets amounting to £10,000 worth within 3 months. However, this task could not be made possible

Fijians left back at home in poverty-like conditions. On 20th October 2012 the WHFN committee held their drive, comprising of the always industrious pairing of Cpl Enele Wilson and Sgt Joe Seeto of 7 Bn (not forgetting their equally hard working wives Temo & Anna respectively) which set about informing invited guests of their charity raising plans. This year they announced the intention of holding a Draw for 2 lucky recipients to fly to Fiji for a luxury holiday. The aim was to ‘advertise the cause and raise as much money as possible’. £11,000+ later and it certainly is a job well done for all involved in the fund raising with the dynamic duo of Wilson/Seeto rightfully worthy of being singled out for individual

praise. Well done guys! It’s a pity that no-one from 7 Bn won (the prize went to an individual from Germany). Captain Cotton was miffed as he thought that he had it in the bag!

For your notice:Fly tipping – up to £50,000 fine

An area which has seen a dramatic increase in occurrence around Wattisham. Please use this link to find out more on the policy of fly tipping in this area.

http://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/environment/street-care-and-cleansing/fly-tipping/

It has also been noticed that people are still not disposing of their recycled items correctly; please can you make sure that if the bins are full not to leave your items next to the bins as the refuse collectors will not take these.

without the help of everyone who supported in buying the tickets which crossed over to Northern Ireland, Germany and within the UK.

The Raffle Draw night attended by a few but important guests such as the Air Pacific’s Sales Manager UK/Europe and chief guest Mrs Debbie Lewis, PL Construction Manager-Mr.P.Lewis, SSO, Station Medical Officer, 7 Battalion Welfare Officer Capt Mick Cotton and Mrs Julia Cotton, Officer Commanding LAD Capt Down, Padre Burley and his family including a few members of the community. A table of light refreshments and drinks were laid out, blessed by the Padre and then the Chief Guest spoke about Fiji’s national Carrier – Air Pacific and in particular the prize donated by

Air Pacific together with Cathay Pacific and PL Construction. After a few minutes of light refreshment and mingling, the Chief Guest spun the barrel a few times and pulled out the winning ticket which belonged to a very lucky Mrs. Miller of Germany.

The members of the Wattisham Helping Fijians In Need would like to thank everyone who have continued to support the cause and objectives of the group, especially to the members of the Welfare Office, Wattisham Station and Padre’s Station.

107 gaRRISOn FM COLuMn

As you probably know, on March 31st, your Army radio service, Garrison FM, will be

closed down, and absorbed into an overall forces’ broadcasting contract under Bfbs.

Hopefully, Wattisham (like Colchester Garrison) will still be hearing my localised breakfast show when I pick up the reins after Easter. But at the time of writing, all I can predict is a new sign outside, new jingles on the air, and the fact that the staff here in Colchester studio will be doubled (to a grand total of TWO!)

So, business as usual until the end of March, and then time for re-training. I am still hoping to commentate at your Triathlon, but all I can say is: “Watch this space.”

Through the Eagle, I want to thank you for your support, friendship and humour during my five and a half year stint as presenter and producer of 107 Garrison FM (1287am for you lovely people at Wattisham and Woodbridge).

The snag with writing a magazine column is that deadlines are well in advance of publication. Normally

that’s no problem, but on this occasion I’m going to sound rather vague for once. (As opposed to sounding

vacant, which is all the time).

Personal highlights include my time at Camp Bastion in the lead up to that drastically snowy UK Christmas of 2010. Great interviews at JHF were among the 60-plus pieces I e-mailed back to Garrison FM.

I was due home on December 20, but it was the afternoon of Christmas Eve by the time I - and a final contingent of subdued soldiers - arrived at icy Brize Norton.

This is my latest Eagle column, not my last, but it’s the final one as Garrison FM, a station which worked so hard and so brilliantly for you all on limited resources. It’s a very sad time, even though I look forward to the challenges ahead.

Thankfully, I still have a job serving my 16X Brigade community.

So this is not “goodbye”. More like “Stand by.” See you soon!

Liz Mullen

The Mk 2 Bloodhounds belonging to 25 Squadron, were aided by a target illuminating

radar and were capable of intercepting targets ranging between 150 to 65,000 feet. For possible deployment purposes this mark was a modular system which could either be permanently mounted on its’ launcher or operated as a mobile installation. The Bloodhounds were removed from Wattisham in 1991, although the platforms were only recently dismantled.

Wattisham Station Heritage are soon to receive a Bloodhound for restoration in our workshop, sadly without a launcher, but it should still look pretty impressive when it is finished, and something

a little different to add to our growing Cold War collection.

Another familiar sound at Cold War Wattisham were the jets on standby in the Quick Reaction Alert shed which stood where RAF SAR now reside. The two Lightnings, later two Phantoms, were on 24 hour alert, and were often expected to be airborne within 10 minutes of the siren scramble alert, which was a sleep shattering Klaxon. The scrambles became a familiar sound to us locals during the night as they were frequently called upon to deflect Russian aircraft pushing the boundaries over the north sea. The old Wattisham QRA shed is now with the Lightning Preservation Group at Bruntingthorpe.

hERITagE Corner

hERITagE CORnER


PadRE’S CORnER

Padre Colin Jones

The Sandhurst motto is –Serve to Lead and during my time there it was impressed

upon us what it means to be an Officer in the British Army.

Sandhurst was an interesting experience for me. The PQO Course (Professionally Qualified Officers Course) is now an 11 week course as opposed to a 4 week course where we get a taste of the training the Regular Officers go through during their 42 weeks. With the exception of shooting, we as Padres do

Those of you with good memories will remember that I spent some time at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the last quarter of 2012. I’m pleased to say that I ‘passed off’ on 13th December 2012 and as several of my colleagues now put –I’m a ‘real’ officer (although for some that’s still up for debate!)

Mark 10:45

‘For even the Son of

Man did not come to

be served, but to serve,

and to give his life as a

ransom for many.’

an EaSTER MESSagE

everything that the other PQO’s (doctors, nurses, lawyers, dentists, vets, etc) do. We had the pleasure of 3 exercises on the Barossa Training area, where we got to experience life in the field, sleeping under a Poncho, then 3 nights in a shell scrape and finally a week in a FOB. These along with the full range of MATT’s, a few runs over the Assault Course, CBRN and the Gas Chamber, various lectures, the 7 Questions, Mission Orders & Estimate (PRACTAC) and the obligatory run through

the ‘Wish Stream’ helped me understand what it is to be an Officer and ‘serve to lead’. It should come as no surprise that a Padre will happily quote Mark 10:45 where Jesus says that he came not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many so serving to lead is something we happily sign up to when we become Ministers and Padres.

For many as we approach Easter some will think of holidays and getting away, some will think of spring and the promise of longer days and better weather. We in Church see Easter as the culmination of Christ’s mission on earth. Through his death and resurrection Jesus fulfilled all of God’s promises and gave us the opportunity of a loving relationship with Him.

Jesus throughout His life demonstrated what it was to serve His fellow man. He never once sought to put himself first but time and time again we read of him putting others first, even to the point of washing his disciples feet! We here at Wattisham have been putting others first for over ten years as the Regiments’ have served in Afghanistan and elsewhere, so we know first hand what it is to serve and the costs involved. Jesus as he approached what he knew to be the end of his life did not falter in his mission, he knew that his ultimate act of service was to give his life that we might be free, to give his life as a ransom for many. It would be our hope that as Easter is celebrated that you also would know what it is to be free.

The year 2012 was an incredible year for the Wattisham Military Wives choir. We started on 31st January for a bit of a singsong and a giggle and found ourselves performing all over Suffolk, recording an album, the number one single, ‘Sing’ and performing at the Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Palace and at the Classical Brit Awards in the Royal Albert Hall!

MILITaRY WIVES

WATTiSHAm MILITaRY WIVES ChOIR

So what will 2013 bring us? Firstly, we are delighted to welcome our new Musical

Director, Birgitta Kenyon. Birgitta trained as a classical pianist and vocal coach at the Royal Academy of Music. She also founded and directs the award-winning choir, The Voice Squad, who made it to the finals of the BBC 3 Choir of the Year contest in 2008. We are really excited to have her on board. www.birgittak.org.uk/bjk/start.html

We are currently rehearsing for our first big performance of 2013, where we will be sharing the stage with local Suffolk girl and our Patron, Kerry Ellis. Kerry Ellis has fast become recognized as the First Lady of West End musicals from her starring roles in London and on Broadway. We are thrilled to be performing with her at

the Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, on Sunday, 17th March.

You will be able to see us performing later on in the year at St Mary’s Church in Hadleigh on 25th May, at the Suffolk show (29th, 30th May 2013) and at home in Wattisham at the Station Cocktail Party on 18th July 2013.

The choir meets every Tuesday night from 6.30pm – 8.30pm in the church at Wattisham Station and we are recruiting now! We welcome all abilities of singing and no audition is required. Even if you think your voice is rusty and you only ever sing in the shower, our choir could be perfect for you! The choir is open to all women who have a connection with any serving or ex-serving personnel at Wattisham Station. If you would like to find out more about us please visit our website: www.wattishamchoir.co.uk.

Sally Wilkinson receiving her well deserved Station Commander’s commendation

The eagle | 30

ZuMBa IS COMIng TO WaTTIShaM!

Classes start 8th April 2013 in the Wattisham Community Centre

Every Monday 7:30pm-8:30pm & Saturday 10:00am-11:00am

First two classes on 8th April 2013 & 13th April 2013 are FREE

(£3.50 per class thereafter)

Please call Holly Bradford on 07557 644 030 or

email [email protected] to book your place. Please note

places are limited & will be booked on a first come first served basis.

For more information visit www.hollybradford.zumba.com or follow @hollybzumba on Twitter

WRVS SERVICES WELFaRE

FanCY PLaYIng In a TaBLE TEnnIS COMPETITIOn?POP In and SEE ME and PuT YOuR naME dOWn.

Also snooker and pool competitions have been requested – come along and put your name on the list. All abilities are very welcome

Also available free tea, coffee, biscuits,

soft drinks.Microwave/oven

Free internet WiFiDVDs to borrow (free)

Sheila (Services Welfare Officer)The Herrick Club (above The Herrick Bar)

Sunday 1800hrs – 2200hrsMonday – Friday

1000hrs – 1330hrs 1 830hrs – 2200hrs

Last year my mum was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer, as you can imagine this was a big shock to our family. She is currently doing well and the doctors are pleased with her progress.

To try and help I decided to apply for a place in this year’s London Marathon with the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and was very lucky to be chosen out of the 300+ applicants for one of their 35 places!

I would be very grateful to anyone who would be kind enough to donate just a few pounds to this charity for its much needed research in detecting Lung Cancer at an earlier stage.

Many thanks Emma Ebdon

http://www.justgiving.com/emma-ebdon

A Date to Remember SSAFA Triathlon, Saturday 11 May

2013 at Wattisham Airfield

A bleak AHF: When the cats away!

The eagle | 31

hIVE nEWS

Wattisham Information & Support Centre

2 Valley Road, Wattisham airfield, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 7ReTel: 01449 728263 Fax: 01449 728263Email: [email protected]; Website: www.hive.mod.uk

Opening Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Wattisham 8.30am–5pm Fri 8.30am-1.pmWed Hadleigh 8.30am-5pm

H VEsupporting the service community information centres

New HIVE Blog - http://wattishamhive.blogspot.co.uk

aRE YOu POSTEd?Redirect mail at

www.royalmail.com Child Benefit – Notify change of address atwww.hmrc.gov.uk/childbenefit/online.htm

www.iammoving.com Has an on-line facility for notifying multiple changes

Relocating Overseas?Find information about an overseas assignment at

http://www.mod.uk/ DefenceInternet/DefenceFor/

ServiceCommunity/OverseasPosting/

& MAnY More DIsCounts

To request your free HOME MOVE BOX go to www.homemovebox.com/modernhousingsolutions

Or contact the HIVE for details.

The following stores offer a Military Discount:Domo, Leading Labels Designer Gear,

Mountain Warehouse, Pavers Shoe Shop, Petroleum Men’s Clothing, Pilot Clothing,

Roman Originals, Suits4U, Thornton’s Chocolates, Trespass, The Works, Yeomans

and Burger King.

COnTaCT hOuSE WaTTIShaM

The primary purpose of the contact house is for use by single or separated service men and women

to exercise contact rights with their children. However when not being used for this purpose the contact

house can be used by other service personnel for visiting relatives,

moving in and out of SFA etc.

To book call 01449 728285

For a list of contact houses up and down the country call into the HIVE

for details or call 01449 728263

hadLEIgh hOuSE/hIVE open WeDneSDAy 0900 - 1700

GROUPS HELD IN WATTISHAM

COMMUNITY CENTREMUMS & TOTS

Mon & Thurs 0930-1145STATION COFFEE GROUP

Tues 0900-1100 & Thurs 1330-1500

TUES FOR WOMENTues 1300-1500

KARATEThurs 1845-1945

RAINBOWS/BROWNIESThurs 1700-1800 & 1800-1915

Are you looking for employment?Go to: www.gov.uk/jobsearch and search for jobs.

Lisa Bambridge

aduLT VOLunTEERS nEEdEd uRgEnTLY

Monday and Tuesday evenings

Have you got spare time?Would you like to gain experience in youth work?Or just give a helping hand?No skills needed your time is enough?

If you are able to help please contact Community Development Worker on 07876124092

All VOLUNTEERSWill need to apply for a CRBThis will be obtained and paid for courtesy of AWS

The eagle | 32

COMMunITY dEVELOPMEnT WORKER

Just before the Christmas stand down we held the Children’s Christmas party in the Community

Centre. Once again the event was at full capacity and the support from the local community was fantastic. Throughout the Party the young people could choose to get their face painted, create beautiful Christmas keepsakes, decorate (and eat!) cakes and biscuits and visit Santa in his Grotto. It was lovely to see so many young people enjoying the fun and games and dancing ‘Gangnam Style’!

Once again such an event could not have happened without the support of others, so a big thank you must go out to Lisa Richardson for her help with the food, Homestart for leading on the craft activities, Gemma from the Childcare Centre for her face painting masterpieces and to all of the team from the Welfare Information & Support

Centre (WISC) for their help and support, especially SSgt Evans for transforming the Youth Club Hut into a winter wonderland.

The next project is the February half term programme, I am planning to organise a selection of activities including; Swimming, Sports and Youth Club, plus a Stay & Play Craft session at the Community Centre. I am also putting together a quick questionnaire to try and establish the wants and needs of the Community, so look out for a leaflet through your door soon!

If anyone has any ideas for new activities, groups etc please do not hesitate to contact me for an informal chat on the contact details below.

Claire LoweCommunity Development WorkerArmy Welfare Service01449 728358 / 72828507876 124092

Over the past few months I have started to settle in here at Wattisham, I have met lots of new people and made lots of new contacts. The time really has flown by and I

am looking forward to an exciting new year ahead. WELCOME TO KIng’S CaMPS

King’s Camp combine the best elements of a holiday club, into a fortnight of fun and adventure without the expense of a residential camp. Offering a wide range of programmes, in a variety of packages

allowing busy parents to drop-off and pick-up their children for the day.

King’s Camp is back in Colchester Station this Summer

1st week 29th July - 2nd Aug 20132nd week 5th Aug - 9th August 2013

Multi-Sport activity camps are running from 8.30am to 5.30pm

ONLY £60.00 per Week

• Multi -Sport Activites for 5 - 12s • Kids Camps. A great week of fun and variety for 5 - 10’s

• Teen Camp, Great Coaching in Top Sports for 11 - 14 • Rookie Leadership Programme. sports and coaching experience

for ages 14 -17

To book:Contact the Recruitment Team on: 01142632160 and please state

where you wish your child to be picked up from i.e. Wattisham/ Hadleigh or Woodbridge

The eagle | 33

AWS Community Development Workers from Colchester Garrison will escort Young People to Windmill Hill, East Sussex (and remain with them) from 8th – 12th April 2013.

Application forms are available from AWS. Forms need to be returned to AWS by 15th March.

PaREnT On, gOIng TO OR RETuRnEd FROM dEPLOYMEnT?

£10 non refundable deposit required (on commencement of activity this will become pocket money)

• Food & aCCOMMOdaTIOn

nO COST• TransporT

PROVIdEd

ESCORTEd hOLIdaYSFOR YOung PEOPLEagEd 8 - 14 YEaRS

The RoyalBritish Legion

& Army Welfare Service are

working together

to offer...

PLEaSE RIng 01206 816581FOR MORE InFORMaTIOn

Maximum of places available to Stations:20 x Colchester10 x Wattisham10 x Woodbridge(Military Families only meeting one or more of the RBL criteria (check with AWS CDW)

Call Today:

(01480) 492183

www.lanceprint.co.uk

Think PrintLance Print is an established printers based in Huntingdon near Cambridge. At Lance we combine skill, experience & knowledge to provide a complete professional service. We aim to fill our clients with confidence in the knowledge that any work undertaken by us, will be completed to the highest possible standard.

Modern ApArtMent: SleepS 4

w w w . l a g o s a l g a r v e . c o . u k

to book ContACt: For more info or to book contact Judith: 01536 711884 or Email: [email protected]

Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre).

It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos.

There is ample car parking space in front of the building.

Prices are per week. Special rates for longer periods can be negotiated. Prices include cleaning and linen change. Towels are changed mid-week and beds at the end of the week. A 25% deposit is required at the time of booking and balance is due six weeks prior to departure.

priCes:Nov to Mar £190Apr, May, Oct £255June & Sep £320July & Aug £395

Imag

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MInISTRY OF dEFEnCE POLICE

PC Mick SmithDefence Community Police Officer55 Chestnut Avenue, Wattisham Airfield, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 7SD Tel: 07833 048918 Email: [email protected] Profile ID - PC Mick Smith

The eagle | 34

Have you ever thought about walking in this area? Suffolk is an area of outstanding beauty with many open areas for people to explore on foot. However, there are many dangers associated with this type of activity and it is this I would like to make you all aware of.

The following story is based on a true event and recently occurred here at Wattisham. With the expressed permission of the person involved I endeavour to enlighten you:-

In January this year, with a good amount of snow on the ground and temperatures around minus 6 degrees, the wife of a serving soldier based here at Wattisham decided to go out alone for a country walk.

She had only been at Wattisham a few days and was unfamiliar with the area. However it looked pretty outside with all the snow on the ground so off she went leaving her home at around 11.30am.

At 13:37 hours I received a frantic telephone call from the ladies father who was over 100 miles away from Wattisham stating that his daughter was lost and that she was freezing cold, very scared and extremely upset. Her mobile phone battery was almost out of power.

The Eagle magazine came in to play here as he managed to get my mobile telephone number from The Eagle Online by searching for “Police at Wattisham” on Google.

This lady needed to be found as soon as possible due to concerns for her welfare.

I telephoned the lady to ascertain where she was. She had no idea. She had totally lost her bearings and she could not see the base.

After some time reassuring her on the telephone that all would be ok and that I would find her the lady confirmed she could see a row of cottages. I eventually persuaded the lady to go and knock on one of the cottage doors in the hope that someone was at home even though she was very frightened to do this. I remained on the telephone with her during this and fortunately a lady answered the door.

I spoke to this lady and discovered where our lost wife was. I immediately made my way to the location.

Upon arrival I found our wife to be in a poor state. She was very frightened, freezing cold, soaked to the skin from the snow and could barely speak due to her shivering.

I transported her as fast as possible to the Medical Centre here at Wattisham where she was examined by staff. The lady was close to hyperthermia. We warmed her up and returned her home into the safe arms of her husband who Welfare had located and got to return him home as soon as possible.

This in my opinion was a very lucky escape for the lady in question and I dread to think what

might have happened to her if I had not got to her when I did.

So what lessons can we all learn from this incident:- If you do decide to go out walking in the countryside please do so with care and be prepared for any eventually.

Please be mindful of the following points:-

• Always let someone know where you are going if walking alone.

• Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged.

• Winter weather can be unpredictable so make sure that you dress in plenty of layers and wear the appropriate waterproof clothing and footwear.

• Take a rucksack containing spare clothing including a thermal hat and gloves.

• Take with you food and drink.• Plan your route. A map and

compass are invaluable, regardless of how well you know your chosen route particularly if the weather closes in and visibility is reduced. Ordnance Survey maps are generally accepted as the most reliable resource as they clearly mark out public rights of way.

In this instance I received the telephone call from this lady’s father at 13:37 hours

If you read my article in the Winter 2012 edition of The Eagle you will be aware of the situation with regards to my role as the Defence Community Police Officer here at Wattisham. To date there are no further updates regarding this matter, however, I will keep you all informed as and when the situation changes. When I have some news I shall ensure that you will hear about it!

and I managed to get her to the Medical centre by 14:15 hours. Next time it may take longer and with each passing minute a person’s condition can dramatically deteriorate.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank both Welfare and the Medical centre staff for the assistance they provided in bringing this incident to a more than satisfactory conclusion.

If you require any form of Police assistance with any matter whatsoever please do not hesitate to contact me at the above, however if you need urgent, immediate Police assistance always ring 999.

My mobile telephone rarely gets switched off although I am not on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If I am off duty I will try to take your call, discuss your problem with you and arrange to see you when I am next on duty. I operate an open door policy at the Police house and you are more than welcome to pop in any time.

PC Mick Smith

Ministry of Defence PoliceDefence Community

Police OfficerWattisham Airfield

Ipswich School of Dancing, 22 Bond Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1JE

Tel: 01473 251323 / Email: [email protected]

NEW BEGINNERS BALLROOM AND LATIN CLASSES !

Our classes are run at different times throughout the week and are for people of all ages and standards.

We have Beginners classes, Improvers classes and Advanced classes as well as Exercise and Keep Fit classes.

For those of you who have not attended our Ballroom and Latin classes before you might like to know that:- It is not necessary for you to bring a partner along with you as we will try our best to

find a partner for you when you arrive.- Wear anything you are comfortable in and can move easily in. High heels are not recommended to start with.

- We have several helpers in our beginners classes so if you are finding the class or a certain step difficult, one of our helpers can be assigned to you for the lesson.

Our practice sessions are held regularly throughout the week. We all know how important practice is. By practicing more regularly you will increase your stamina, refresh your memory of what was covered in your lessons and improve your dancing.

Please contact us to find a class to suit you.

Ipswich School of Dancing, 22 Bond Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1JE

Tel: 01473 251323 / Email: [email protected]

Welcome toNEW BOKWA

FITNESS!

Bokwa Fitness is the new up and coming dance programme comprised of cardio respiratory endurance, muscular strength

and flexibility to hit the dance and fitness industry.

Bokwa Fitness is energetic, exciting, exuberant and exhilarating and consistently remains challenging, however is tailored for every type of individual to guide and assist with weight loss.

Bokwa Fitness is a refreshing new programme that has proven to be self-fulfilling for group exercise and dance instructors and the individuals who participate in these classes. it’s fun and its

highest level.

WATTISHAM HALL HOLIDAY COTTAGES

Wattisham Hall Holiday Cottages Award-winning, charming barn conversion within an

ancient moat and tranquil countryside. Cottages are beautifully furnished, having exposed

beams, oak floors and plenty of character. Shared games room and outdoor play area.

Private hot tubs in all 3 properties.Three Cottages sleeping 8, 7 and 4 people

Prices from: £350 - £1000 per week

Contact Mrs Jo Squirrell

Wattisham Hall, The Green, Wattisham, Ipswich, IP7 7JX

T: 01449 740240E: [email protected]

W: www.wattishamhall.co.uk

OPEN : Mon to Sat 8.30am to 6pm, Sun 9.30.am to 4pm

Coal Yard, Gipping RoadGreat Blakenham, Ipswich,Suffolk, IP6 0JB

Tel: 01473 830683 Fax: 01473 833233

www.birdstackle.com

Birds Tackle was opened in 1981, and has built a reputation for efficient, friendly advice on all aspects of fishing. Our prices are competitive and we

aim to match any genuine quote.

* 5000sq ft. of shop* Plenty of parking

* All major brand names in stock(Nash, Shimano, Preston, Korum, Daiwa, Fox)

* Huge selection of coarse and carp baits* Sea & Pike baits

* Special offers on bivvy’s* In store only massive savings

* Shooting air rifles / pistols* BSA • Gamo • Crosman • SMK

* Pellets / Shotgun cartridges* Shooting Accessories

* Customer loyalty scheme

5% discount with Army ID

hq wattisham flying station | community magazine ......this magazine is published by the kind...

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