Issue No. 41 Summer 2025 The Flash© The Official Magazine of the RAF Regiment Association, Founded 2006
2 Issue No. 41 On taking the Chairmanship last year I had no idea how steep the learning curve would be. I knew that it would present challenges and that it would absorb a lot of time, but I wasn't quite aware of just how much of a challenge it has been. Having said that, I am enjoying the challenges and enjoying working with a great team of dedicated Association members who form both executive and non-executive roles within the NMC. Branches are being communicated with and we welcome any ideas or questions with a promise that we will listen to all of them in a positive manner. Our “events calendar” is soon to be upon us. Starting with St Annes Church Catterick for the rededication service, moving on to the Arboretum on Armed Forces Weekend and then the following week at the Tower of London. We will be busy, but happy to see as many members as possible attending. The next AGM is in October and already our Events Organiser, Mick Schultz and his lovely wife Christine have worked tirelessly to ensure that it will be a great weekend at a great price. Notices have already been out about it and we'd love to see you all in Blackpool. Come and have your say there and make your voice heard and your votes count. The AGM will be followed quickly by Remembrance which is such an important part of our existence, taking time to recall those who have served in the Corps and are now at the FRV. We have had many losses already this year and it is right that we remember them We will be holding the election of officers of the Association at Blackpool and there are some vacancies to be filled if you feel that you'd like to join the team. Experience in many roles isn't important, but enthusiasm and dedication is. I will be standing for election to the post of Chairman, as I currently hold the post unelected. Our long standing Secretary, Frank Xavier has stood down and the post is being covered by Merv Ashe who will also be standing for election in his own right. The Treasurers post was advertised and we will need to fill that vital role, and there is also a small matter of replacing our Membership Secretary as Keith O'Sullivan has chosen to stand down after many years. Our Vice Chairman is standing down in October and we must find a replacement for him too. I would like to formally and publicly thank Frank Xavier for all that he has done for the Association over many years of loyal service. His boundless efforts and detailed knowledge of affairs of the Association have been a mainstay and his loyalty is unquestionable. I am sure that most of you will have met him or know Frank very well in some capacity. He has been a true servant of the Association and he has handed over the duties in a very clear and orderly fashion which has allowed the NMC to run seamlessly through this transition. I am sure that you will all join me is wishing him all the very best for many years to come. There are changes being made, progress, not just for changes sake, and I look forward to travelling with you all through the journey of this Association year. I wouldn't miss it for quids! Per Ardua. Paul Welcome to the new look Flash Magazine! Since the motion was put forward at the October AGM last year, a lot of work and some great ideas have come together to produce it and to save an enormous amount of money which the NMC can redirect into other projects for your benefit. Chairman’s Message
© The Official Magazine of the RAF Regiment Association Founded 2006 Issue 41 - Summer 2025 Honorary President Air Vice-Marshal M (Mick) Smeath CBE RAF Honorary Vice-Presidents Group Captain J (Jason) Sutton OBE RAF Group Captain S (Steven) Brereton Martin CBE RAF (Ret’d) National Management Committee (NMC) & Trustees* National Chairman Mr Paul Grimley* Vice-Chairman Mr Tom Magee* National Secretary MJ Ashe MBE GCGI Sqn Ldr (Ret’d)* National Treasurer Mr Sean Linard* Membership Secretary Mr Keith O’Sullivan* Compliance Officer Mr Jez Smart* CG’s Representative Gp Capt J (Jason) Sutton OBE RAF (Ex Offico) Non-Exec (NMC) Members Field of Remembrance Coordinator Mr Steven Horton Cenotaph Parade Coordinator Mr Keith O’Sullivan Tower of London Coordinator Mr Simon Sharpe Corps memorial Garden Coordinator Mr Gary Collins Ceremonial / Parade Marshal Mr Alan Parkes National Standard Bearer Mr Neil Dare Accounts Manager Mrs Gabi O’Sullivan Merchandise Coordinator Mr Mick Schultz Association Chaplain Rev Sandy Gall NMC Oversight Compliance Officer Mr Jez Smart Contact us Nation Secretary: [email protected] National Treasurer: [email protected] Membership Secretary: [email protected] Flash Magazine Editor: [email protected] Facebook: www.facebook.com/ RAFRegimentAssociation Website: www.rafregt.org.uk Welcome 2 Chairman’s Message Paul Grimley’s welcome Stories 4 No Living Rock Can Call This Man A Sprog The story of Acting Sergeant Francis Allan Perry 6 VE Day Parachute Flag Jump Les Copper explains 7 Marne Barracks Remembrance Service and St Anne’s Chapel Re-dedication Service by Merv Ashe 8 RAF Regiment Round Up / Corps Update Latest news from our RAF Squadrons 10 II Field Squadron, Active Service and beyond, Cyprus 1957-58 Albert Weager GSM former 5033179 SAC Weager A 12 Re-Orgs and Reunions A look at recent gatherings 14 Membership Benefits What do you get for your subscription fee? 15 EX 19 Squadron Veterans Annual camp in North Wales 16 2624 Sqn(R) RAF Regiment Battlefield Tour With Paul Grimley as Tour Guide AGM 18 RAF Regiment Association Reunion & AGM Book now for this years event Accounts 21 Summary of Accounts 2024-25 Member Updates 22 Roll of Honour In memoriam 24 New Arrivals Welcome Contents 4 16 7 10
4 Issue No. 41 One of the Original Rock Apes is soon to celebrate his 103rd birthday. Here is the story so far of Acting Sergeant Francis Allan Perry Born 26th of October 1922. Enlisted 1941 as a Ground Gunner transferred to RAF Regiment on its formation in 1942. Allan Perry joined as a Ground Gunner on 28th August 1941 and then the RAF Regiment (Founding Member) in 1942. Allan underwent training at Penarth (Wales) and Winton (Bournemouth). On completion of training Allan was posted to RAF Lintonon-Ouse. Later Allan sailed from Liverpool and joined 2908 Sqn situated between Alexandria and Cairo in Egypt. During his service Allan served in Palestine, Trans Jordan, Syria, Turkish border, Italy, Greece and Austria. Allan was demobbed on 31st December 1946 in the rank of Acting Sergeant. Decorations: Africa Star / Italy Star / 1939 – 1945 Star / 1939 – 1945 Defence Medal / 1939 – 1945 War Medal / 1941 – 1945 Greece Medal. The following are extracts of Allan’s memories whilst serving: “Although it wasn’t until August 1941 that I received my Calling Up papers and to report to Salisbury the 28th of August, catching the 8 o’clock train. By midmorning with many other men we boarded a train for Penarth in S. Wales taking with us our shaving gear etc. Also, a large No Living Rock Can Call This Man A Sprog piece of brown paper and some string to send your civilian clothes home. We were brought together late afternoon and sworn in and therefore became members of the RAF. A visit to the dentist ensured that I lost a tooth. All monies were sorted, allowance made home and at Pay Parade I received the sum of ten shillings” It was time to throw live grenades down the cliff face from a sandbagged area. There were two boxed areas next to each other. The fellow in the next bay, being his turn pulled the pin, slightly over balanced and caught his hand on the sandbag parapet which made him release the grenade and it started to roll along the sandbags. The Sgt Instructor dived forward, flipped the grenade over the side and shouted: “DOWN!” The grenade exploded a third of the way down the cliff face. It was some time before any of us threw a grenade until we that were left to throw went through the actions once again. Every Saturday morning, we paraded as normal. The usual ritual of picking out men for overseas duties. This first Saturday in the New Year saw four of my mates called out. One of whom was a married man from Norwich and had children. After all was finished, I asked permission to speak to my married mate and said to him; “You stay, and I will take your place.” It was agreed with the WO in charge and so I took his place. We were paraded outside the Medical Centre and told “Tunics off, shirt sleeves rolled up, hands on hips.” You walked forward to the Medical Orderlies where one would inject in your left arm, the other in the right. 100% in each arm. At six o’clock the ship moved out and started its journey, which we found out was going north without an escort. Days later saw us nearing land. Landing at Port Tewfik we were soon entrained and made our way to a transit camp before being posted. The date 2nd April so it has taken us from the17th February to get here. Most of the time here spent on fatigues, bathfulls of potatoes to peel all day long. Almost a week had gone when a CPL called nine of us together and said “You are posted to 251 Ames located between Alexandra and Cairo to join the newly formed 2908 Field Squadron RAF Regiment. You take a train to Armarea where you will be picked up by a lorry from 251 Ames.” Sorting out the kit and exchanging names, we found we all came from the West Country: George Pike from Plymouth, Ken Aggett Exeter, Bill Latham Barnstaple, Devon, myself from Yeovil, Thomas from Charlton Musgrove. We from Somerset and Ted Collard from Cardiff, William Beynon Swansea, Dai Davies Merthyr Tydfil and Thomas. “Palestine - We eight gunners kept everything up to readiness. It was August before the raids started to become fewer although one night a German aircraft dropped a large flare. It lit up everything for miles around. The outer case was found almost a mile away. Another night which we thought would be quiet had us going outside the camp searching for possible German paratroops. The message was a German transport carrying troops passed a Wellington bomber flying east. Stand down came six hours later. The only incident 2908 Sqn in Greece IWM – CNA4660 Cpl Allan Perry
Summer 2025 5 that happened was a Mitchel bomber gave the wrong signal and was shot down by a British fighter. We found the remains of the bomber not far away” “Almost two days later at 4.30 in the afternoon we were told to look out for mines. We entered Katakolon harbour. Our LCT went towards the beach which was sand and dropped the ramp onto the beach itself. We couldn’t drive the cars off because we had to unload large quantities of fuel which took several hours to do. Once unloaded we drove off the beach on to a road and then had to de-waterproof the vehicles. It was dark when we took up our positions in convoy. Being the last of three ac’s to bring up the rear CPL Cockburn, Ken Aggett and myself being once again the Good Shepherd” It was during his stay with the flight that CPL Cockburn was told by Squadron Leader Wynne that he will immediately with his crew and car report to the SBS headquarters as from now and you will take orders from their CO for as long as they required your presence. We backed them up in all operations and at one time we were joined by two other cars one afternoon. By drawing fire from the hill and just driving out of reach each time which resulted in a considerable amount of the enemy ammunition not being used against our rifle flights. N.B. During the recapture of Greece in World War II, multiple RAF Regiment squadrons were involved in operations in the Peloponnese. Specifically, a squadron from the Levant and Italy, part of “Bucket Force,” landed on the Peloponnese to secure an airhead at Araxos. Additionally, an RAF Regiment squadron advanced from the Peloponnese towards Patras, liberating the town with a detachment of the LongRange Desert Group. Detachments from 2908 Squadron were attached to the SBS during this time. Several excursions into Patras we confronted the enemy and inflicted casualties. One morning the SBS CO Major Patterson took over the gunner’s position in the car and said to take him into Patras to see how far we could go without finding opposition and as we approached a bend in the road we were travelling along, a lorry load of the enemy came from the other direction. The immediate shout from above was “Open fire.” Major Paterson with the Bren in the turret and CPL Cockburn with the 5 anti-tank rifle inflicted numerous casualties and the order to me “You can withdraw now driver and return to base.” This I did. With the all the flight 2908 squadron actively engaged the following night the enemy left Patras withdrawing back towards Corinth and Athens. Allan and the Recce cars provided vital patrolling and recce tasks, but soon the war in Europe was over, the squadron moved to Crete and in November the squadron moved to Klagenfurt, in Austria. And following Xmas leave Allen returned to the UK, where he passed the NCO course at RAF Belton Park and was promoted to the rank of Corporal and posted to RAF Compton Basset. Allen was released via Uxbridge on the 10th of September 1946, finally cleared by 21st of December of that year. Civvy Street came, and after leaving the RAF Regiment, Allan went back to the company he worked for before joining up. The company being W D Stirling Ltd Allan and Maisie with Air Cdre Neal on the 75th anniversary of the RAF Regiment formation. 2908 Sqn in Greece IWM CNA 3277 Heritage centre 2908 Sqn Otter of Yeovil (the company is no longer in existence). The company was involved in the business of lamb skins for making gloves and sheep skins for making coats. Allan retired from this company at the age of 65 but continued working for another company until he was 74 when he finally retired. Allan and his wife Maisie will be celebrating their 78th wedding anniversary in September 2025. Allan joined the Catterick Branch of the RAF Regiment Association in 1991 and then later transferred to the Somerset, Dorset, Bristol and Bath Branch.
6 Issue No. 41 The VE (Victory in Europe) 80th Anniversary (1945 - 2025) flag-jump was done at Hinton Skydiving Centre, Nr Banbury, Northamptonshire. I climbed on board their skydiving aircraft, a PAX750XL, together with an aerial cameraman and exited the aircraft at 12,000 feet. I then carried out a freefall descent down to 5,000 feet and after deploying the main parachute, and checking that it was in good order, I deployed the VE and UK flags. Les Copper VE Day Parachute Flag Jump The aerial cameraman filmed the airshots - YouTube link previously provided - and one of Hinton’s skydiving cameramen took all the still photographs from the ground. The skydive went well with the flags being admired by many on the ground. I have done several flag jumps before and did one some time ago at Dunkeswell which during WWII was a U.S. Naval base flying Liberators in search of German U-Boats. The flags jumped on that one was the UK and the U.S. flags. I sent those images to the Americans who appreciated them. So now onto my after-service episodes. After leaving the RAF Regiment I worked as a skydiving instructor, parachute rigger and later as a pilot. The chap who taught me how to fly was a WWII Battle of Britain Ace called James ‘Ginger’ Lacey. Ginger was also our jump-pilot. During my flying career I worked as a flying instructor on single and multi-engine aircraft, an instrument rated instructor, an aerobatic instructor and taught some foreign air force pilots the art of flinging an aircraft around the sky without getting killed in the process, a CAA Examiner for the issue of the Private Pilot’s Licence, a CAA approved pilot to conduct flight tests for the airworthiness certificate of single and multi-engine aircraft, a BPA (British Parachute Association now referred to a British Skydiving) pilot examiner on single and multi-engine aircraft and the aircraft’s suitability for parachuting, a corporate pilot who flew into Kosovo during the war in an unarmed aircraft to drop people off and finally as an airline pilot from which I have now retired - when you hit 65 you have to retire from airline flying, there is no choice. I was even involved years ago in flying the Powered Parachute during its certification process. On the skydiving front I have been civvy jumping since 1973 with my career taking me to a multitude of countries around the globe and as far afield as New Zealand, Hong Kong, Denmark, Norway, Turkey, etc, etc (The lists could go on and on). I have been part of many demo teams parachuting around the UK and have also parachuted into an airshow. I have been filming multiple world skydiving record attempts and many UK ones too. We did get the UK SOS record on 8 July 2018. I also hold a FAA Master Riggers qualification. Watch on YouTube
Summer 2025 7 It was an honour and privilege to be involved in the MARNE & St Anne’s Rededication service today alongside a former 1 Sqn OC and guest of honour Gp Capt Jason Sutton, sadly Baroness Harris of Richmond was poorly and unable to attend, however she did send her best wishes and was very much missed. The Kings Colour for the RAF Regiment was on parade and very smart too with WO Steve Langton and members from Trg Wg making up the colour party, others in uniform were provided by 609 (WR) Sqn CUAS, and a great turnout by the Riders Branch to add some noise. Both services were carried out with dignity and grace and when some retired to either the Bay Horse or Golf club the stories started to unfold fuelled by coffee or beer. Branches of the RAF Regiment Association were represented from across the country, and we would like to extend a thank you all who made the effort it is very much appreciated. Per Ardua. Merv Ashe National Secretary RAF Regiment Association Marne Barracks Remembrance Service and St Anne’s Chapel Re-dedication Service Watch on YouTube Watch on YouTube
8 Issue No. 41 The last six months have seen an ever increasing demand for the RAF Regiment, its Gunners and its skill set. Currently, the RAF Regiment Wings and Squadrons all come under the Combat Readiness Force (CRF), commanded by Gp Capt Sam Wiseman. No 1 Sqn RAF Regiment have spent the last six months honing their skills and preparing to become the RAF Regiment’s Very High Readiness (VHR) Sqn. This included conducting individual training up to Sqn level exercises. Fieldcraft and tactics were practiced through a series of exercises as well as mission planning, orders delivery and specialist cadres in things like heavy weapons, mortars and mobility using the Foxhound Armoured Vehicle (Wheeled) (AV(W). No II Sqn took part in Exercise COBRA WARRIOR 2025. This is one of the largest UK exercises and brings together not only specialist from across the RAF and Defence but International Partners as well. The exercise is held at various locations simultaneously all over the UK and No II Sqn played a pivotal role alongside the Air Land Integration (ALI) Sqn. Six members of the Sqn also attended the Army’s ‘P-Company’ course whilst the RAF’s own Pre-Para Selection Course undergoes an update. All attendees successfully passed which means that they can now attend their ‘Jumps Course’ at RAF Brize Norton. No 15 Sqn RAF Regiment are busy with their training cycle, delivering specialist cadres in machine guns, heavy weapons, anti-tank and sniping. They have also run ranges with their Foxhound vehicles to qualify Sqn personnel in top cover shoots. 3FP Wing and a sizeable percentage of the Sqn along with other elements of the CRF attended Exercise ALPINE SERPENT – an Adventure Training package delivering skiing to Regt personnel in Val Thorens, France. RAF Regiment Round Up / Corps Update No 34 Sqn continue to provide UK Defence with state of the art Counter-Uncrewed Arial Systems (C-UAS) capability alongside Gunners from No 63 Sqn RAF Regiment and 609 Sqn Royal Auxiliary Air Force Regiment. 34 Sqn (under 2 C-UAS Wing) are the only dedicated unit providing this capability and are deployed at various locations worldwide. They also provide the capability in the UK when requested by the Police or other Government agencies. No 51 Sqn deployed to Norway and took part in Ex JOINT VIKING. The exercise was designed to evaluate the Sqn’s ability to work in the ‘High North’ and involved surviving and operating in temperatures down to as low as -20 degrees Celsius alongside our Norwegian allies. Swapping the snow for the sun, the Sqn redeployed after some leave for RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus to be the Resident Field Sqn (RFS) until they are relieved by No 1 Sqn RAF Regiment in Sep. 1 Squadron RAF Regiment Orders. MOD Crown Copyright HMG Cadret. MOD Crown Copyright
Summer 2025 9 No 63 Sqn / the King’s Colour Sqn returned from their deployment in Cyprus and after some well-deserved leave, went straight in to their ceremonial season by providing troops for the VE80 celebrations in London. A busy year ahead for KCS including Public Duties at the London Palaces. The RAF Force Protection Centre at RAF Honington has been at the forefront of delivering pre-deployment training for RAF personnel as well as delivering Op INTERBOW; a series of courses for personnel from Ukraine. INTERBOW teaches Ukrainian Officers and SNCOs about Force Protection planning and the intricacies of fighting and defending an airbase. RAF Regiment Training Wing (RRTW) continue to deliver the Trainee Gunner (TG) course, Further Training (FT) Courses and the Junior Regiment Officers Course (JROC). The pace of delivery is relentless, but the Corps desperately needs highly trained, highly skilled new Gunners, NCOs and Officers. Supported as ever by 4001 (Training Support) Flt, the courses are delivered at various training areas across the UK making the logistical task of delivering them even more impressive. As well as training the next generation, RRTW also delivers through life training in the form of specialist signals training and professional development courses such as range management qualifications. The RAF Regt Recruitment & Selection Flight (RRRSF) have been busy highlighting the Corps at events across the UK and engaging with Military Preparation Training Colleges in a bid to boost recruitment numbers. Ex Cobra Warrior Farm Assault. MOD Crown Copyright Ex Joint Viking. MOD Crown Copyright STORM SHROUD announcement. MOD Crown Copyright Beyond the CRF, the RAF Regiment continues to deliver and showcase the best of what we do. The Force Protection Training Flights (FPTFs) or ‘GDT’ in old money are still providing annual and mission specific training to the wider RAF. In May, FPTFs from across the RAF came together at RAF Honington for their annual symposium, swapping best practices, raising concerns and looking to the future structure of how the RAF will operate in an ever complicated world. One thing the RAF Regiment has always done is innovate and lead the way in emerging technologies and tactics. In May, the Prime Minister, alongside the Defence Secretary and the Chief of the Air Staff announced the arrival of ‘Stormshroud’ – a new un-crewed platform that will enable the RAF to fly missions in a new way using drone and electronic warfare technology. At the heart of this new kit is the people who will fly the missions…. and that is members of the RAF Regiment working closely with 216 Sqn RAF. Full details of the capability can be seen in this short video alongside members of the RAF Regiment: Must watch videos And finally, the Corps had the immense privilege to be presented to his Majesty the King in February. Wing OCs and Sqn Warrant Officers, accompanied by their partners, spent the evening at a reception in Buckingham Palace, kindly hosted by HMTK. The King was introduced to the Officers and Gunners present by the Commandant General – AVM Smeath and the Corps WO – Gaz Elliott who also presented HMTK with a full set of RAF Regiment ‘Mudguards’ for him to proudly wear on his RAF dress uniform.
10 Issue No. 41 Alighting in Limassol from the ‘Empire Clyde’, late February, after a ten day Mediterranean cruise I was swiftly convoy bound to RAF Nicosia, as a signaller, joining 2FS as it completed its transition from armoured cars to landrovers. I was now on active (National) service! The squadron had recently arrived from Arabia, under the command of Sqdn. leader, Owen ‘Gentleman’ Davies and Sammy Smythe, dapper SWO. It was buzzing with the frustrations of long serving members, whose overdue ‘Blighty’ return was delayed, awaiting replacement arrivals. This crisis, was short lived and welcomed by the RAF Police who had been frequently turning up en masse, to deal with the manifestations of unrest. Tempers were running high! II Field Squadron, Active Service and beyond, Cyprus 1957-58 I found myself billeted with three of these ‘angry’ men, two of whom were Current boxing champions the other being the squadron dispatch rider. Three brilliant blokes who were my mentors during my early days. These were the EOKA days and the squadron was continually pro-active; engaged in external patrols, escort duties, station security mobile reserve, and numerous guarding detachments. One of these was guarding the AOC’s residence in Episkopi, where the sentry challenge of ‘Halt, Stomata, Dur’ proved spectacularly ineffective one night as a nervous guard succeeded in ‘dropping a dead donkey’! A particular benefit came your way there, use of the nearby senior officers beach. Another one was the external water supply unit, for RAF Nicosia, where, if you were there in September, some inspired bargaining with drivers of melon bearing trucks, proved very fruitful. An overstretched squadron, short of NCOs saw me for one week, aged nineteen promoted to the lowest possible rank, corporal, local acting, unpaid, no stripes! In order to command the Mobile Reserve, the station’s first response to an attack. Unsurprisingly liberty taking individuals found this an irresistible challenge. The best part of the week was watching a Hunter squadron take off from the end of the runway, quite spectacular. It was one aircraft short, the missing one, witnessed by me having nose wheel problems, when in the bomb dump guard tower the previous week. Much of our time was taken up with convoy escort duties, such as to Famagusta docks (ammunitions) and Mount Olympus (6004 feet), in the Troodos Mountains (radar equipment). Admin Area The Sqn en route to Mt. Olympus, camels were not part of our convoy! Which can be seen coming behind.
Summer 2025 11 The Sqn en route to Mt. Olympus, camels were not part of our convoy! Which can be seen coming behind. Convoy planning left much to be desired, as for the first one thirteen escort vehicles turned up to escort three trucks! Next time three escorts for about nine trucks. Scenes at Famagusta docks preparing to escort convoy, perched on the landrover, Bernie Newcome, Terry Hillier and Jim (Zola) Paterson. Planning for these events was again problematic as often we would arrive at the docks to find ammo carrying vessel still at sea, requiring us to find billets at Ayios Nikolaos. The squadron provided a close protection detail for the AOC when he was mobile. Close meant close, no more than six feet away from the vehicle in front! Landrovers were black with the white winged wheel logo. The reserve vehicle had been pressed into service for a docks escort run and can be seen in the centre photo. Ceremonial occasions had resumed after the squadron’s arrest of Archbishop Makarios at the airport, which proved to be a gateway to peace as the EOKA campaign of violence ended bringing with it a declining need for security patrol and, seeing the resumption of ceremonial events ie the Queens Birthday Parade. As the senior Regiment unit on the station, it provided the Guard of Honour, before marching off, leaving the Parade to carry on. I was never up to GoH standard and enjoyed the lowly role of pre-Parade ‘boots duster’! Opportunities to leave the station came our way, allowing myself and a few others to visit Nicosia on Good Friday 1958. Combined Service Entertainment (CSE) artistes were very soon visiting the troops and the squadron escorted these to and from RAF bases dotted around the island, on one such occasion, on detachment at Cape Greco, Rosemary Squires (later known as the ‘Jingle Girl’) gave a truly electrifying performance of the Peggy Lee hit, ‘Fever’. to a packed marquee of all ranks. Up and coming Rank starlet, Vera Day was another sight for ‘sore eyes’! Squadron Club With peace pro-active duties declined, but training emerged and off duty airmen were kept busy with the construction of wooden accommodation to replace tents. Two year serving artisans did the building with the ‘intellectuals’ rendering empty packing cases, from the helicopter squadron, into suitable building material. A squadron club was built and opened itself to airmen and NCOs. This soon became a very popular. Summer passed and in late September I left transit camp on Nicosia to depart for Hendon, Innsworth and Demob, not without one last panicky moment as I realised, on getting to departure, my documents were still under the bed at the transit camp! A rescue rush ensued and I made the flight. Phew! Albert Weager GSM former 5033179 SAC Weager A Bernie Newcome, Terry Hillier and Jim (Zola) Paterson Scenes at Famagusta docks preparing to escort convoy
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14 Issue No. 41 One of the most frequent questions we are asked regarding the Association membership is – What do I get for my subscription fee? Before going into this, I would like to point out that the subscription fee has not been increased in more than five years. We have been able to keep the membership fee low because of efficient financial management of funds received from subscriptions, investments and donations. The National Management Committee regularly review and improve activities and products for the members to access. On your behalf the Association donates to various veteran support groups and charities that assist gunners and their families if they need essential help. In addition, we support the upkeep of St Annes Church and other locations that have significant links to the RAF Regiment. Direct membership benefits to you include but are not limited to events such as: 1. Tickets for the National Service of Remembrance in London (Cenotaph Parade) 2. The Tower of London Chapel Parade and Service 3. National Memorial Arboretum parade at the Corp Memorial Garden – Armed Forces Weekend 4. St Annes re-dedication ceremony 5. Annual Church Service to commemorate the formation of the RAF at St Clemence Danes in London 6. Battle of Britain Service at Westminster Abbey, London 7. Free attendance (day visitor) to AGM 8. Attendance to association organised events. Membership Benefits The Association also organises and pays for the hire of a memorial plot at the Garden of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey in November, this also includes the placing of crosses for the departed. Your contribution also allows us to deploy the National Standard at some of the above, key events. We will also provide: • Publish 2 free community magazines (delivered as a digital pdf product) per year • Live video access to events supported by the RAF Regiment Association • RAF Regiment Association enamel pin (free) on joining the Association You will also have: • Access to the digital achieve of past issues of the magazine • Access to your local branch and network of comrades • Voting rights and the ability to join the management committees at all levels. Check your payment methods: Payment can be made by 1. Bank transfer/Standing Order R.A.F REGIMENT ASSOCIATION Sort Code: 82-12-08 Account No: 10012754 2. PayPal [email protected] Remember to use the Friends and Family options. 3. Cheque Checks made payable to: RAF Regiment Association posted to the National Treasurer 4. Local Branch Payment can be made through your local association branch.
Summer 2025 15 EX 19 Squadron Veterans annual camp in North Wales In 2016 at the annual 19 Squadron reunion in a local pub in Carterton, the seed was sown, after a few beers, which would flourish into a successful year on year annual camp in North Wales. What was thought at first to just be a weekend away with the lads in the mountains, has become an important Reset for all who attend. And at the time of writing this article, the 8th Annual camp will be taking place, in the coming weekend, at Capel Curig. The formula for the success of the annual camp was simple, comradeship. Put a group of like minded Vets in a field, with a minimum of luxuries (a toilet and shower block and a water tap). There’s no politics, no Egos (that might be a lie) and no admin, what could possibly go wrong. Not that much to be fair, the type of activities and when to do them is decided on the Friday we get to the site. Based on the weather forecast, who has turned up and the kit that we have available. The standard weekend would normally start with a hike on Saturday and rock climbing and/or abseiling on Sunday before people left for home. As this is the 8th year, the previous seven years have always been eventful, great fun, memorable and a fantastic way, as I have said before, to reset. Some highlights however, over the years have been: At our 1st Camp in 2017 we climbed the mountains of Tryfan and Moel Siabod. We spent the Sunday rock climbing at Tryfan Bach and abseiling at Tin Can Alley. The 2nd Camp in 2018, saw the early birds, on the Friday go rock climbing the Direct Route at Tryfan. The most wet we have ever been, hiking the Snowdon Horseshoe, in horizontal rain on Saturday and abseiling at Tin Can Alley, in the rain on Sunday. Our 3rd Camp in 2019, again started on the Friday afternoon rocking climbing the First Pinnacle Rib at Tryfan, getting back to camp in the early hours of Saturday morning. This was followed by a classic hike on Saturday taking in reverse Cribb Goch. Our last four camps have focused on hiking the alternative routes that are less busy, using our local buddies as guides, rock climbing and abseiling. And although I cannot make it to this years camp, I hope you all have a great time. Per Ardua (Nelly’s Pizzas)
16 Issue No. 41 A group of 17 members of 2624 RAF (Aux) Regiment Sqn plus Paul Grimley as Tour Guide visited the WW1 Battlefields between 10th and 17th May. Starting with 3 nights in Amiens and visiting the southern battlefields of the Somme. We called in at Bullecourt and were made welcome by the Town Mayor! The team moved on to the Northern Somme visiting the battlefields around Delville Wood, High Wood, Pozieres, Beumont Hamel and Thiepval Memorial where 72,000 men who have no known grave are remembered. Moving north to Arras the team then saw the battlefields and memorials around there including the spectacular Vimy Ridge Memorial. 2624 Sqn(R) RAF Regiment Battlefield Tour 2575 Sqn RAF Regt. at TocH Sept 1944, billeted there for 2 weeks. Tribute laid at Lochnagar Crater, The Somme, the largest man-made crater 1916. 2624 Sqn RAF (Aux) Regt. Sqn Association in the same spot at TocH, Poperinghe 15.5.25 The team at Thiepval Memorial to The Missing of The Somme. 72,000 names on this amazing monument.
Summer 2025 17 Canadian Memorial, Vimy Ridge near Arras St Symphorien Cemetery. The first and last British soldiers to die in WW1 lie 5 yards apart here. This is the circle of Middlesex Regiment men who lie at rest here. Delivering a presentation at the battlefield of Waterloo. The Lion Mound in the background is 140ft high and has 246 steps! Last Post Ceremony, Menin Gate, Ypres. Tributes laid by the team on the 33,600th occasion of the ceremony being carried out since 1927. The team at the top of the Lion Mound at Waterloo The crew then spent their last 3 nights in Ypres in Belgium. Taking in Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in the world and Langemark, the German Cemetery in The Salient, to see how they deal with remembrance, by way of balance. Some good museums and sites of interest were included, and everyone found the tour informative and interesting. Wreaths and crosses were placed with dignity at all sites visited, with 5 wreaths being laid at The Menin Gate, Ypres when attending the nightly Last Post Ceremony. Many stories of bravery and of the routines of soldiers, the trials and tribulations, the success and the defeats were covered. Emotional, respectful and at times quite entertaining and funny social aspects made this a tour not to forget. Culminating at Dunkirk we visited the excellent Evacuation Museum before heading back to Dover via ferry. A busy and tiring but worthwhile event enjoyed by all who took part. The closing statement was - “Where are we going next year troops!”
18 Issue No. 41 Our 2025 Reunion and AGM will be held at The Savoy Hotel Blackpool. Ideally situated on the seafront and central location to access all the wonders Blackpool processes. Blackpool has very good road and rail links making it easy to get to from most of the UK and I believe direct flights from local hubs including Northern Ireland. The cost per person for the weekend package is £149 additional night rates are available on request. If you live in the area, you can attend the Gala dinner £35 per cover for non-residential guests. RAF Regiment Association Reunion & AGM Friday 24th October 2025 12:00 onwards Tea/Coffee & biscuits on arrival. Registration area for delegates. 18:00 Three course buffet dinner with DJ after dinner in The Derby Suite. Private use of the Derby Suite until Midnight. Overnight accommodation, in single, twin or double rooms. Saturday 25th October 2025 Full English breakfast buffet served in Gilbert’s Bistro. 11:30 The Cumbrian Suite tea/coffee & sandwiches. 12:30 AGM commences. 19:00 Drinks Reception. 19:30 Three course private Gala dinner in The Derby Suite. Overnight accommodation in single, twin or double rooms. Sunday 26th October 2025 Full English breakfast buffet served in Gilbert’s Bistro. Use of the Derby Suite. Guests depart. Gala Dinner Menu Starter A nest of chilled honeydew melon filled with plump Norwegian Prawns on a bed of continental leaves, drizzled with a brandy scented dressing. OR Leak and Potato Soup. Main Course Pan-fried supreme of chicken with sautéed button onions, bacon lardons and mushrooms & a white wine & wild mushroom sauce. Finished with tarragon. Vegetarian Alternative Vegetable Wellington encased in golden pastry edged with a rich white wine sauce. Dessert Apple pie with whipped cream. OR Exotic fruit salad with fresh cream. Followed by Freshly brewed Coffee and Mints.
Summer 2025 19 RAF REGIMENT ASSOCIATION AGM THE SAVOY HOTEL, BLACKPOOL 24th – 26th OCTOBER 2025 Lead Name Address Postcode Telephone No. Email Address Total No. of Rooms Total Persons Room Types Twin / Double / Single (please indicate) Other Names on the Booking Special Requests £149 per guest, Extra nights £50 per guest DBB or £40 B&B - £40 Deposit Per Person Date Balance Due 4th October 2025 **Please note cheques must be received at least 30 days prior to arrival** Cheques are payable to:- Britannia Savoy Hotel Payment by debit card Amount £ Type of card: Card No: Expiry Date: Security Code: All Booking Forms to be sent to: Norbreck Castle Hotel, Queens Promenade, Blackpool, FY2 9AA – [email protected] **If a receipt & confirmation is required, please provide an email address or send a Stamped addressed envelope**
20 Issue No. 41 Notice of RAF Regiment Association 2025 Annual General Meeting Saturday 25 October 2025 (12.30 for 13:00) The Savoy Hotel Queen’s Promenade, Blackpool FY2 9SJ AGENDA Roll of Honour & Collect (please stand) 1. Welcome - Chairman (a) Health and Safety Brief (b) Declarations (c) Apologies and Correspondence (d) Minutes of 2024 AGM (Flash no 40 page 14-15) (e) RAF Regiment Prayer - Rev Sandy Gall (f) Read out Roll of Honour - Chairman & Secretary 2. Annual Reports (for 2025) (a) Mr Paul Grimley - Chairman (b) MJ Ashe MBE GCGI Sqn Ldr (Ret’d) - Secretary (c) Mr Sean Linard - Treasurer 3. Proposals; (a) Agree the Annual reports (b) Agree NMC Budget & Business Plan (c) A motion to move the next AGM to March 2026 as an Extraordinary AGM to re-align the AGM with the financial year and deconfliction with other events. (d) That all NMC positions are to be extended in duration by 6 months to allow this to fall in line with the above proposal. (e) Certain changes to the rules to be discussed at AGM prior to adoption. (f) Under the changes to rules the following items are proposed: ◊ Branches are responsible for funding their own activities. Before ANY expenses are incurred the proposal for the activity must be agreed and any funding for expenses OF ANY KIND must be fully agreed before Branch Funds are used to offset them. This includes, but is not exclusive to, expenses incurred by those representing their branches at National level meetings (such as the AGM). Any branch allowing payment of expenses from their funds must vote on the subject and until noted in the minutes as agreed no such expenditure can be authorised by the branch executive. Receipts for such expenditure must be handed to the Branch Treasurer and noted in the branch annual reports. Any person claiming expenses for purchases or otherwise must firstly ensure that the expenditure is fully agreed and minuted. Any claim against branch funds to recoup expenses that have not been authorised, noted and agreed by a branch meeting will not be paid. 4. Election/ratification of Officials (a) Chairman - Proposed Mr Paul Grimley (b) Vice-Chairman - Proposed Mr Gary Collins (c) National Secretary - Proposed MJ Ashe MBE GCGI Sqn Ldr (Ret’d) (d) National Treasurer - Proposed WO Jason Griffiths (e) Membership Secretary - Proposed Mr Steven Pearson (f)) Compliance Officer - TBN 5. Date of AGM/ Reunion 2026 Proposal to be ratified Venue - Tbc Note - Day attendees to the AGM are requested to pre-register for lunch with National Secretary at [email protected]
Summer 2025 21 RAF Regiment Association Summary of Accounts 2024-25 2023/24 2024-25 INCOME RECEIVED Donations: £641.54 £2,024 Interest £139.74 £689 Rathbone Investments £2,832.02 £2,775 St Annes Service £361.36 £114 AGM £0.00 £5,560 Sales £619.71 £292 Membership Subscriptions £7,597.95 £5,026 Gift Aid £578.48 £733 Social Fund £595.04 £0 Other £20.06 £0 Total Income Received £13,385.90 £17,212 EXPENDITURE Charitable Objectives Event - AGM Costs £307 £5,427 Event - NMA £193.15 £0 Event - Remembrance Weekend £235.60 £472 Event - St Annes Service £1,379.20 £710 Event - Tower Chapel Service £0 £75 Donations £500 £150 Communications - Flash Magz £5,783.32 £5,246 Charitable Giving £0 £0 Welfare £107.71 £154 Sub-total Charitable Objectives £8,505.98 £12,234 Operations NMC - Travel £947.28 £841 National Standard Bearer Cost £794.40 £775 Branch Standards Bearer Cost £550.00 £500 Website £421.53 £319 Stationery and Equipment £385.67 £34 Accountancy Charges £16.80 £194 Postage £657.18 £148 Recruitment £0 £0 IOC Fee £40 £40 Insurance £96 £96 Stock £558.68 £0 Other ( incl NMC Mtgs venues) £0 £1,080 Sub-total Operations £4,467.54 £4,026 Total Expenditure £12,973.52 £16,260 Operating surplus/deficit £412 £952 ASSET BALANCE Virgin Money Current Account £11,752 £14,996.93 Virgin Money Deposit Account £744.53 Rathbone £87,450 £91,898.31 Shares Stock Held £1,173 £1,374.83 Value £100,375 £109,014.60 2023/24 2024-25 Donations The RAF Regiment Association benefits occasionally from general fund-raising, formal bequests and funeral collections from former Corps members. If you are planning a fundraising event, making your Last Will & Testament or involved in a Corpsrelated funeral, please remember YOUR Association. We rely on our members, wider Regiment community and stakeholders’ generosity to participate and promote the Esprit de Corps of all former and current members of the RAF Regiment. The RAF Regiment Association, formed in 2009, and UK registered Charity, (No 1157881), is the only organisation representing all ranks of the RAF Regiment past and present, recognised by the Corps. We support all the Corps events but have particular organisational responsibilities for; RAF Regiment Chapel at St Annes Church Catterick, Annual Commemoration at the RAF Regiment Memorial Garden, and London Remembrance Week events including placing of 300+ Poppy Crosses at the RBL Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey.
22 Issue No. 41 Roll of Honour Air Cmd Anderson MBE Dempster December 2024 Non-member Mr Baker Steve August 2024 Non-member Mr Ball Ian January 2025 Non-member Mr Base Phil November 2024 Non-member Gp Cpt Bolton David October 2024 Non-member Mr Bowden Les July 2024 Non-member Mr Bown Malcolm February 2025 Non-member WO Bray George January 2025 Non-member Mr Chapman Steve September 2024 Non-member Mr Clarkson Peter July 2024 Non-member Mr Clegg Tony January 2024 Non-member Mr Cockburn Robert September 2024 HQ Roll Mr Corriette Russ April 2025 Non-member Mr Cottingham Mark January 2025 Non-member Mr Coupe Steve April 2025 HQ Roll Sgt D'Arcy Paul December 2024 Non-member Mr Dale Philip February 2025 Non-member Mr David Scoby Non-member Mr Duffy Michael September 2024 Non-member Mr Gallet Gabriel March 2025 Somerset, Dorset, Bristol & Bath Mr Gardner John Non-member Mr Goodall Andy March 2025 Non-member Mr Gough Robert January 2025 Non-member Mr Griffin William July 2024 Non-member Mr Griffiths Anthony December 2024 Non-member Sgt Hart John February 2025 Non-member Mr Hastings Michael August 2024 Non-member Mr Hawkes Richard May 2025 Non-member Mr Holman Fred November 2024 Non-member Mr Huntley Peter January 2025 Non-member F/O Jackson Hugh January 2025 HQ Roll Mr Jones David Non-member Mr Leach Mark November 2024 Non-member F/O Laithwaite Len May 2025 Non-member Mr McDonald George July 2024 Non-member Mr Meadows Dean August 2024 Non-member Mr Miller "Dusty" Non-member Mr Miller James December 2024 HQ Roll Mr Moore Geoff July 2024 Non-member WO Morrell Bernard August 2024 Non-member Mr Morris Fred April 2025 Non-member
Summer 2025 23 Mr Pearson Reg April 2025 Non-member F/S Peterson Geoffrey December 2024 Lincoln F/S Price Ron April 2025 Non-member Mr Price Jones Stanley 13 July 2024 Non-member Mr Proctor Reginald 13 May 2025 Norfolk Mr Proudlock Andrew 05 May 2025 Non-member Mr Redfern Andy 14 September 2024 Non-member Sqn Ldr Relf Brian 24 December 2024 HQ Roll Mr Richards David 15 February 2025 Non-member WO Savage MBE Keith 13 January 2025 Non-member Mr Shirley Jimmy 30 October 2024 Non-member Mr Shringley Rob 31 December 2024 Non-member Mr Sudsbury Fred 08 December 2024 Non-member Mr Suggitt Steve 26 January 2025 Non-member F/S Talavia Chris 07 August 2024 Non-member WO Thompson David Non-member Mr Tipple John 14 December 2024 HQ Roll Mr Truscott Paul 19 March 2025 Non-member Mr Underwood Phil 25 November 2024 Non-member Mr Watson James 29 April 2025 Non-member Mr Whale John 02 March 2025 Non-member Mr Williams Kevin 22 July 2024 Non-member Mr Woods Rab 16 January 2025 Non-member
24 Issue No. 41 New Arrivals Mr Armstrong James 1983/2017 Northern Ireland Mr Bentham-Bates Steven 1972/1996 Associate Member HQ Roll Mr Bowen David 1973/1997 51 Sqn, 16 Sqn, JSMRU, BCTS, 58 Sqn, GDT, 15 Sqn, 34 Sqn, TRG Spec HQ Roll Mr Chadburn Andrew 1985/1989 1 Sqn Riders Branch Mr Forster Paul 1975/1987 48 Sqn, 26 Sqn, 27 Sqn, Trn Flt, GDT HQ Roll Mr Fuller Wayne 1979/1991 2623 Sqn HQ Roll Mr Greig Keith 1980/1996 51 Sqn, 1 Sqn Riders Branch Mr Hallett Anthony 1966/1988 QCS, 2503 Sqn, 2622 Sqn, HQ Strike Command, 2 Sqn, 15 Sqn, MOD London, RAF Innsworth HQ Roll Mr Henry Kenneth 1984/1993 58 Sqn, 401 TMW, 34 Sqn, 4001 Duties Riders Branch Mrs Hunt Linda Associate Member HQ Roll Mrs Hughes Janet Associate Member Central London & Surrey Mrs James Denise Associate Member HQ Roll Mr Johnson Philip 1961/1983 Bridgenorth, Catterick, Felixstowe, Laarbruch, Nicosia, Akrotiri, Lossiemouth HQ Roll Mr Kimber Philip 1992/2010 501 Sqn, 1 Sqn, 2624 Sqn Central London & Surrey Mr Lewis Derrick 1968/1977 TSF, 63 Sqn, 37 Sqn Lincoln Mr Lloyd-James Christopher 1981/1986 58 Sqn, GDT, 48 Sqn HQ Roll Mr Loughlin Robert Central London & Surrey Mr Lynham John 2000/2017 1 Sqn, GDT, 3 Sqn, OACTU, QCS/63 Sqn, 2 Gp FP Training, 51 Sqn, Air Capability Northern Ireland Mr McCormick Garry Central London & Surrey Mr McIntosh Andrew 1982/1991 19 Sqn, 3 Sqn, 27 Sqn, 501 Sqn, 51 Sqn HQ Roll Mr Merrygold Tony 1990/1999 51 Sqn, SD814, 34 Sqn, GDT, Airman’s Command Squadron HQ Roll Mr Pheasant Roger 1984/1990 15 Sqn, 3 Sqn, 2625 Sqn Plymouth Branch Mr Preston Gareth 1981/2004 1 Sqn, 4001 Flight, 58 Sqn, SD814, GDT, 34 Sqn Riders Branch Mrs Pugh Yvonne Associate Member Lincoln Mrs Pullin Lucy Associate Member Central London & Surrey Mr Reilly Tam Central London & Surrey Mr Robinson Derek 2002/2006, 2015/2023 609 Sqn, 2503 Sqn, 607 Sqn Catterick Mr Ryan Anthony 1977/2000 48 Sqn, 37 Sqn, QCS, 63 Sqn, 501 Sqn, 27 Sqn HQ Roll Mr Stitt Alfred 1960/1996 Associate Member Catterick Mr Stone Philip Associate Member Riders Branch Mrs Thomas Susan Associate Member HQ Roll Mr Webley Andrew 1985/ 26 Sqn, 19 Sqn, 16 Sqn, 1 Sqn, OACTU, 34 Sqn, 2 FP Wg, Training Wing (RTS(A), 92 Sqn (AWC), NATO AWACS, 7 FP Wg Riders Branch Mr Williams Andrew 1984/1985 2625 Aux Sqn Central London & Surrey Mrs Williams Vicky Associate Member Riders Branch Mr Yallop John 2010/2012 2623 Aux Sqn Norfolk
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