The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue 6 ... · the month of remembrance. The marathon is a long-distance running event with an official distance of 26 miles 385

the skies at RAF Marham

The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue 6 2016 £Free

Inside this Issue: News Latest Lightning News Regulars Heavens Above

LIGHTNINGlights up

ISSUE 6 2016 MARHAM MATTERS 3www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

EDITOR: Clare SmithExt: 6739Email: [email protected]

RAF MARHAM WEB PAGE:www.raf.mod.uk/rafmarham

DESIGNER: Helen KapalaEmail: helen@

lancepublishing.co.uk

SALES MANAGER: Jayne BaileyTel: (01536) 526677Email: jayne@

lancepublishing.co.uk

PRINTER: Lance Print LtdTel: (01733) 390564

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by the contributors to the Marham Matters are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander. All Images © Crown Copyright 2014, unless otherwise stated.

STOCKISTS: The Surgery, Marham, Manor Farm Medical Centre, Swaffham, Plowright Medical Centre, Swaffham, The Surgery, Swaffham, Howdale Surgery, Downham Market, Hollies Veterinary Clinic, Downham Market, The Crossings Veterinary Clinic, Downham Market, The Grove Veterinary Surgery, Swaffham, Priory Centre, Downham Market, Lynn News, King’s Lynn, St Martin’s at Shouldham VA Primary School, Marham Infant School, Marham Junior School, Downham Market Academy, Nicholas Hammond Academy, Swaffham, Town Halls in Downham Market, Kings Lynn and Swaffham, BAE, Warton, Armed Forces Careers Office in Norwich, Cambridge and Peterborough, Royal Air Force Association in Downham Market, Downham Market Air Cadets, All other RAF bases.

From the Editor

Stn Cdr’s Foreword From the Station Commander ......................................4

Community SupportFull of community news and upcoming events ............. 15

Heavens Above From the Chaplaincy Team ......................... 16

REGULARS NEWS

FEATURES

FEATURES SPORT

6

Deadline for Next Issue: 13th July 2016Please submit all entries for the next issue by the date stated above.

Mammoth Effort .............................6

Royal Norfolk Show ................... 12

F-35B Lightning Visit to Marham ............................................. 14

Marham Rainbow Centre Outstanding Ofsted .................. 18

Freedom of the Borough Parade ................................................................26

From the Lightning Basing Team.......................................................4

Volunteers Donate Thousands ................................................................22

Four SWO’s Reunited Volunteers ........................................22

Six in Six ..............................................5

The Royal Engineers Endurance .................................................................11

Marham Mudders ....................... 17

Queens Award for Voluntary Service 2016 ....................................28

Step Liners at St Pauls ...............30

Charity Cricket Match ............... 31

Royal Navy Division attend Battle of Jutland Ceremony ................................................................ 32

A

You will see from this month’s issue what an incredibly exciting and busy month we have had. The RAF Marham ‘100 Events’ has gathered even greater momentum throughout the year and saw the highlight this month of our participation in the Royal Norfolk Show. The inclusion of the RAF Marham in the Heritage Zone and our presence in the Discovery and Military Zones makes this year’s participation even larger than in the past and fully fitting in the year the station celebrates its centenary. The following day saw another momentous event in the RAF

Marham calendar when the RAF’s latest aircraft, the Lightning overflew RAF Marham - the UK station the aircraft will be based at. Crowds gathered to see the fifth generation aircraft as it performed a flypast alongside the current Tornado GR4. The aircraft is visiting the UK to take part in RIAT (the Royal International Air Tattoo) and has taken the opportunity to flypast its future base and also the Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier.We hope you enjoy reading about these and all of the other news in the magazine and as always please keep your stories coming in!

4 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 6 2016 ISSUE 6 2016 MARHAM MATTERS 5‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

NEWS FROM THE LIGHTNING BASING TEAM NEWSREGULARS STATION FOREWORD

Station Commander’s Foreword

News from the Lightning Basing TeamIn the not too distant future, the new F-35 Lightning II aircraft will arrive and begin operating from RAF Marham. Before this happens, an incredible amount of new infrastructure needs to be built. A project of this scale at an operational frontline station undoubtedly effects everyone. Notably the movement of IX(B) Squadron from their home in the south west HAS site to what is now their new squadron headquarters, a move which was known as Project HARRIS.

The relocation of an entire Tornado squadron was

no easy task. To house the squadron, two new buildings have been erected by CarillionAmey and their sub-contractors near to 31 and 12 Squadron. A potentially difficult location to work in given the close proximity of manoeuvring aircraft, but both the contractors and the squadrons have worked tirelessly to produce a successful end build – the first element of this being the IX(B) Squadron Headquarters which was formally handed over to station on Friday 1st April 2016.

IX(B) Sqn Receive Their New Squadron Headquarters

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Marham and the Battle of the Somme. In light of these landmark occasions, I will be taking up the challenge of running six marathons in six days. I will be raising funds for the Royal British Legion. The challenge will take place in November, a significant time of year for the Royal British Legion with November being the month of remembrance. The marathon is a long-distance running event with an official distance of 26 miles 385 yards, usually run as a road race. The event was instituted in commemoration of the fabled run of the Greek soldier, a messenger from the Battle of Marathon to Athens, who reported the victory. For anyone, a marathon is seen as a challenge and an achievement to complete. To complete six and six days is going to require lots of training and dedication. I have only recently taken up Marathon running again. In 2007 and 2008 I ran the London marathon but it wasn’t until 2014 that I ran again another marathon. Since then I have got the running bug, competing in a further 10 marathons including Edinburgh, Dublin and Stanley. I’ve set myself the challenge of becoming a member of the 100 marathon

club within 10 years. As part of my training for the event I have a number of marathons booked. This month I will be competing in two marathons back to back. On Sunday 5th June I completed my first ultra-marathon, running 35 miles in just over 5hrs 30mins. I always want to push my body to the limits and for me six marathons in six days will provide that test. Another reason for taking up the challenge, my main ambition is to one day run John O Groats to Lands’ End, so the six in six will give me an indication on what it is like to run long distance over consecutive days. Overall, though raising money for the Royal British Legion is the key goal.The Royal British Legion provides lifelong support for the Armed Forces community - serving men and women, veterans, and their families. They help members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families all year round. They also campaign to improve their lives, organise the Poppy Appeal and remember the fallen. If you would like to sponsor me, you can do by going to justgiving.com/JonWard85100yrsSomme Also if you would like to follow my progress in training, follow me on twitter @wardyrunladrun SAC Ward

Six in Six

©Pavelk/Shutterstock

It’s officially the monsoon season in Norfolk and therefore it’s time for the Annual Formal Reception and Freedom Parades! At some point very soon summer will be here, the roads will stop flooding and the buildings will remain dry. Many congratulations to Dee and her team at the Rainbow Centre; if OFSTED could have found a grade above Outstanding then they would have awarded it. Dee’s truly inspiring leadership and dedication has been recognised by this tremendous report – WELL DONE. Charity and fundraising has been abundant throughout the month, with teams across the Whole Force involved in events such as the Tornado Pull and many of you getting muddy in Airfield Anarchy. The Anne-Marie Noble Charity Cricket match was a fitting celebration and tribute to a truly inspirational woman, thank you to all involved raising money for the MacMillan Cancer Trust, oh and also for making me look like a cricketer! The Freedom of the Borough of Kings Lynn would normally have been the main parade of the month (and all involved did an incredible job), however

The Royal Norfolk Show has without doubt taken centre stage for RAF Marham and our centenary celebrations this month. It was a huge honour for the station to be given the lead for the Armed Forces at this year’s show. Everyone involved across the station has pulled out all the stops to make these 2 days memorable; as the Show Director announced in his closing address – the people of Norfolk are immensely proud to have RAF Marham within it’s county borders and to have joined in our centenary celebration. I would like to extend my thanks to everyone involved, who I know have worked tirelessly over the last few months. The sunset parade in the Grand Ring on the final day was spectacular!Finally, as I write this foreword, tomorrow we welcome the future to RAF Marham. The UK’s first F35 Lightning will overfly the airfield, accompanied by a Tornado. This symbolic event, 2 years ahead of the arrival of 617 Sqn, represents the current and the future for this Station. A landmark and historic occasion that reminds us all that the future of Marham is bright indeed.


FEATURE MAMMOTH EFFORT FROM TIW

MAMMOTH EFFORT

Recently, four teams from RAF Marham competed against the clock (and each other) to pull a Tornado GR4 for a mile.

Aiming to beat the 20 minute record set by RAF Lossiemouth in 2012, teams from TIW, Eng Ops, AESF and BAE Systems, as well as Balfour Beatty contractors building the new F-35 Lightning facilities, pulled the 17-tonne aircraft to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund. Two Air Training Corps cadet teams also rose to the challenge, pulling the aircraft for a shorter distance to raise money for their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

and to fund the Tornado Trail in King’s Lynn to celebrate the Station Centenary.

Ben Elephant set the teams off and the Station Commander, Gp Capt Rich Davies, was on hand to cheer on the teams, who needed determination and grit to keep the aircraft moving. The teams were made up of 10 – 20 personnel, many of whom had been training for some time for the challenge. Two teams pulled at the same time, in opposing directions, on the disused runway at RAF Marham, which features a dip mid course – so both teams had a rolling start but a difficult uphill slope to finish – and the focus for competition and rivalry was where and when they crossed in the middle! The winning time, in an amazing time of 16 mins and 6 seconds, was achieved by the BAE Systems team.

Organising the event, Wg Cdr Andy Fell said: “We were keen to just see if we could do this, but once we had launched the idea, it really took off – despite Marham being really busy, it is great to see the whole range of Station personnel, Service, contractors, reservists and cadets, up for a challenge and having a great time.” Each team member who took part was asked to pay an entrance fee as well as getting sponsorship for their team, resulting in

more than £1000 being raised for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

RAF Marham is one of many RAF stations where the RAF Benevolent Fund has actively supported serving members of the RAF family. Last year alone, £266,885 was spent on serving personnel and family members at RAF Marham. This included £194,153 on 27 individual grants helping with matters including housing support, £3527 on Relate support, and £51,601 on Airplay, the Fund’s youth support programme.

Results:

BAE Systems 16 mins 06 sec

Balfour Beatty 17 mins 00 sec

AESF 18 mins 33 sec

TIW/Eng Ops 27 mins 54 sec

Ben Elephant helps Marham Team smash Tornado Pull Record

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ROYAL ENGINEERS ENDURANCE SPORT

On the 26th May 1716 by Warrant of King George I, the Artillery separated from the Engineers and each were placed on separate establishments. This enabled the Corps of Engineers to be born and after the Royal Warrant was presented they were then commonly known as the Royal Engineers. To celebrate this year the 300th anniversary of the Corp of Royal Engineers, a charity endurance event was held at RAF Marham by 534 Specialist Team Royal Engineers (Airfields) on Monday 16th May 2016. A team of ten personnel from 534 STRE, based at both RAF Marham and Wattisham station, covered 300 km in less than two hours. During the day’s event, the team raised a small amount of money for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) charity. With help from RAF Marham gymnasium, with the loan of mountain bikes and rowers, the team had the opportunity to take it in turns to run, cycle and row the equivalent of London to Paris. The 300 km endurance event started once the team from Wattisham arrived at RAF Marham. After a briefing and a good warm up and stretching session everyone was eager to start and the team began the running and cycling at 1300 hrs, just as

the sun was warming up! By splitting the team into three smaller sections, the natural urge to complete the distance quicker than the other sections soon emerged, pushing the pace even quicker!The total distance was covered in 1 hour 54 minutes. 2 sections completed one lap of the Marham Perimeter track on bikes, running one lap of the track and rowing 5km on rowing machines. The third section completed 3 laps of the Peri track on bikes to cover 30km each and once this distance was added to the other 2 sections achievements the grand total was exactly 300 km!The day was ended with a well deserved BBQ organised by LCpl Willington. Everyone that was involved in the endurance event attended along with those that work with STRE at RAF Marham. This gave everyone the chance to indulge in some marinated chicken, burgers and sausages. The day was enjoyed by all, with the sun being on our side. LCpl Hamilton went on to say “Even though it was very tiring, the day was very enjoyable, as we had the chance to celebrate the day the Royal Engineers have been serving the British Army for 300 years.”

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FEATURE MARHAM AT ROYAL NORFOLK SHOW

Royal Norfolk Show The wind and rain did not dampen the spirits of the personnel from RAF Marham from putting on a fantastic show at the County’s largest agricultural event. RAF Marham attends the event every year, to represent the RAF, display the different trades and take part in the sunset parade. This year however, the organisers of the Royal Norfolk Show invited RAF Marham to celebrate their centenary year by bringing more personnel and displays to the show. The station was represented in the military zone, the discovery zone and the heritage zone with static displays and a climbing wall. The caterers performed a ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’ style competition with local celebrity chefs, which the Station Commander judged very enthusiastically! The RAF Falcons displayed in the Grand

Arena and Station Ceremonial Flight carried out the sunset ceremony along with other military, both UK and USAF, civilian emergency services, veterans and cadets from across the County of Norfolk. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall were in attendance and delighted the crowds as they visited the different displays.Woodfordes Brewery even launched a special ‘Norfolk Tornado’ beer to honour RAF Marham’s Centenary which was launched at the Royal Norfolk Show. The RAF Marham photographers were out in force and we hope the pictures give you a taste of what the show was all about. A great couple of days were had by all and RAF Marham was proudly showcased at the largest event in the county.

RAF Marham takes centre stage

ISSUE 6 2016 MARHAM MATTERS 15‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

FEATURE F-35B LIGHTNING VISIT MARHAM

14 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 6 2016

COMMUNITY SUPPORT REGULARS

Repairs Maintenance RequestsOption 1 (24/7, 365 days a year)

Allocations, Move Appointments, Furniture, Retention and Other Help with SFAOption 3 - Option 3 (Central region - Marham), Open Monday to Friday from 8.30am till 3pm

RAF Marham CA Local Customer Service CentreMel Reed, 3 Woodview Road, RAF Marham, Kings Lynn, PE33 9NP (Monday 9am till 3pm & Tuesday to Friday 9am till 12 noon)

WELFARE ADMIN SUPPORT &APPOINTMENTSSandie EarnshawTel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6578

WELFARE WORKERSCarol BullasTel: 01760 337261 Ext 6900Michele StewartTel: 01760 446348Tracyanne WheelerTel: 01760 446051

SSAFA VOLUNTEER CO-ORDINATOR Tel: 07984 908622

SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM, WATLINGTON Tel: 0845 456 4567 or 101

WO PMS WO Anne McLean Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6055

RAFP COMMUNITY OFFICER Cpl Hannah Wales Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 7227Email: [email protected]

PCSO Tel: 101

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY SUPPORT - OCFlt Lt Gary WalkerTel: 01760 337261 Ext: 7491

or 95951 7491Mob: 07740 799593Email: [email protected]

MARHAM LODGES / CONTACT HOUSESZara MurfittTel: 01760 337261 Ext: 7136or 95951 6136 Email: [email protected]

COMMUNITY SUPPORT ASSISTANTMaydie SmithTel: 01760 337261 Ext: 7425Email: [email protected]

STATION YOUTH WORKERLouise JonesThe HIVE Office, RAF Marham, Kings Lynn, PE33 9NPMobile: 07887 498620Email: [email protected]

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICERJocelyne Newman Tel: 01760 337261 Ext: 6081Email: [email protected]

HOUSING SCSO Flt Sgt Terry Norman Tel: 01760 446052, on

base 95951 6052 Email: [email protected]: scsomarham

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Friday 1st July 2016 marks an historic day for the UK as the future of the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force combat air fleets, the F-35B Lightning, flew over their prospective ‘homes’; HMS Queen Elizabeth, HMS Prince of Wales in Rosyth and RAF Marham in Norfolk.

“They are part of our plan for a stronger and better defence: more ships, more aircraft, more troops available at readiness, better equipment for special forces, more being spent on cyber – to deal with the increased threats to our country.”

The fifth generation F-35B jets are the most advanced aircraft ever built for the UK and will be operated initially by 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force, known as ‘The Dambusters’ and subsequently by 809 Naval Air Squadron, ‘The Immortals’. Combined, they will transform the UK’s ability to project UK influence overseas.

The head of the Fleet Air Arm, Rear Admiral Keith Blount OBE, said:

" The F-35Bs are the most advanced fast jets in the world. Whether operating

from land or from one of our two new aircraft carriers, they will ensure we

have a formidable fighting force. "

VISITS RAF MARHAM FOR THE FIRST TIME

F-35B LIGHTNING

“Today marks a significant milestone in the nation's return to aircraft carrier aviation and carrier strike. Both ships have been designed from the keel up to operate with the F-35B and the RAF and Royal Navy are working ever closer to see fixed-wing aircraft once more operating from Royal Navy Aircraft Carriers. I feel very proud to be part of it.”

The carriers will provide over four-acres of sovereign territory which can be deployed around the world, travelling at upwards of 500 nautical miles a day. Both

ships are capable of carrying up to 36 F-35B Lightning stealth jets.

Following the flypast at the QEC, the aircraft flew on to RAF Marham, Norfolk.

Air Vice Marshal Gerry Mayhew, Air Officer Commanding 1 Group, said:

“It was a proud and exciting moment to have the F-35B Lightning fly overhead RAF Marham for the first time today. Alongside Typhoon, the Lightning will offer the RAF and Royal Navy a cutting edge front line strike capability and also offer the most powerful and comprehensive integrated sensor package of any fighter aircraft in history. I have no doubt the Lightning will act as an inspiration for the current and future members of both services.”

In front of personnel from the Station and invited local guests, the F-35B completed a flypast, demonstrating what the station can expect when Marham becomes its

home base in 2018. The Station has already started to prepare for the aircraft’s arrival with work to provide the necessary infrastructure and support facilities.

Three jets arrived in the UK for the first time earlier this week after a nine hour transatlantic crossing. They will take centre stage in a number of Air Shows around this country this Summer, principally the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire from 8-10 July and the Farnborough International Airshow, 11-17 July.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon


REGULARS COMMUNITY SUPPORT

A

HeavensAboveWho packs your parachute?In the 1980’s Madonna sang – “I am a material girl in a material world”. Today I think we could change that to say, “I am a busy girl in a busy world”. ‘Busyness’ seems to be the disease of our modern age. So much to do, with so little time to do it and only little me here to do it all.

Let’s be serious, some people are very good at being busy. Some of us love it, and are busy at being busy. I know I can be! We can create our own work and we become busy at being “people pleasers”, trying to make everyone happy.

We can become lost in our ‘busyness’; we are indispensable, irreplaceable, and even self-righteous in our busyness. The whole world would collapse or descend into chaos if it were not for us.

Really? In truth if you want to know how indispensable you really are try this, place both your hands in a bucket of water, when you take them out, the gap that is left behind is the gap you will leave.

Our ‘busyness’ is true as much in our working and home lives as it is in our community and spiritual lives. We are frequently too busy with many things, but are we spending time to listen, to think, to reflect, to meditate, to stop look around us and appreciate. Or are we too busy.

Now don’t get me wrong, action is good. However, what we “think” is essential, is not always the most important thing. How do we know when we have it right?

Sometimes we have to stop and take stock otherwise our actions can just be self-perpetuating.

Sometimes we will never realise what work we have done, what effect we have on others, and more importantly the effect they have on us.

There are many who work tirelessly, those unsung heroes in our midst, those who labour without descent in the background, never noticed with little or no recognition of the role they play.

Captain Charlie Plumb was a US Naval pilot who flew the F-4 Phantom on 74 successful combat missions over Vietnam. On his 75th mission, with only five days

before he was to return home, Plumb was shot down, captured, tortured, and imprisoned in an 8 foot x 8 foot cell where he spent the next 6 years.

Many years later after being repatriated to the US, Plumb was sat in a Kansas City restaurant with his wife, when a man approached him and said.

“You’re Captain Plumb, you flew jet fighters in Vietnam. You were on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down. You parachuted into enemy hands and spent six years as a prisoner of war.”

PIumb said, “How in the world did you know all that?”

He replied, “Because, I packed your parachute.”

Plumb was speechless. He staggered to his feet and embraced the man who said, “I guess it worked.”

Plumb didn’t get much sleep that night, he kept thinking about the man, kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform. He wondered how many times he passed him on board the Kitty Hawk. Wondered how many times he might have seen him and not even said “good morning”, “how are you”, or anything. How many hours had that man spent on a long wooden table in the bowels of that ship weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of those chutes? Yet he had not noticed, couldn’t have cared less, until the day his parachute saved his life.

How many times has God used us as the catalyst to change another’s life, to support or even save them?

Who are the people behind the scenes in your life? Day in day out, working in so many small un-noticed ways. Who are the unsung heroes quietly working away in your life, making everything possible for you, always there to catch you if you fall.

Take a break from your busyness, stop, look around you, listen with the ear of your heart, and consider, who is packing your parachute?

St Margaret’s Church, RAF MarhamSunday Church Services – NEW SERVICE TIME

Sunday 10 July – 10.00amHoly Communion

Sunday 17 July – 10.00amMorning Worship

Sunday 24 July – 10.30amJOINT SERVICE at HOLY TRINITY MARHAM with the laying up of 31 Sqn’s Colour

Sunday 31 July – 10.00amHoly Communion

Sunday 7 August – 10.00amMorning Worship Sunday 14 August – 10.00amMessy Church

Padre Geoffrey

ALL NEW - Midweek Service – Midweek @ MiddayFrom the 6 July we’re launching our new midweek service. This is an informal service, about 45 minutes long. All welcome.

ALL NEW - Friday FellowshipJoin us for breakfast on Friday’s as we meet together to read the bible and pray. From 7.00am.

FROGSDuring term-times, FROGS, our parent & toddler group takes place between 9.30am-11.00am in St. Margaret’s Church. All are welcome!

Sign-up for our weekly news sheet. Email Nikki Savage [email protected] to be added to the distribution list.

This summer the Airplay Youth Club at RAF Marham has five fun packed weeks of activities planned, apart from the week we are on a Royal British Legion Poppy Adventure Break, we will be operating regularly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We are excited to be offering a mixture of trips out and sessions in the Youth Centre. The activities will include Pleasurewood Hills trip, BBQ and games, canoeing, sports day, cooking, crafts, Bewilderwood trip, fruit picking, ‘Pirate Beach’ and an end of summer disco!

The full programme booklet will be available in the Hive and at Youth Club. Please return money, booking and parental consent forms a minimum of a week before the activity. If you have any questions please talk to Ian [email protected]

who we are pleased to welcome as the new Station Youth Worker and connect to his new Airplay Facebook page.

Youth Club evening sessions will resume Thursday 8th September.

Airplay Youth Club Summer Activities

On the weekend of the 11th and 12th of June, 7 people from RAF Marham attended the annual Airfield Anarchy ‘Mudfest’ at Newark Showground. The weather wasn’t on their side but it hardly mattered when the whole weekend was planned around getting covered in mud!

After setting up camp and getting the BBQ going, it was a relaxing evening before the onslaught of the following day. The Saturday comprised of a 5km obstacle course in the morning, followed by a 10km obstacle course in the afternoon. The obstacles ranged from monkey bars and 30ft slides to dragging tyres through mud filled trenches and crawling through barbed wire ditches. Dressed in skin tight lycra RAF bobsleigh suits meant the team couldn’t be missed, and the fantastic camaraderie and team work and was often commented on.

MARHAM MUDDERS

Both races were completed in excellent time and although soaking wet and covered head to toe in mud and goodness knows what else, it was time to relax. The hot tubs for hire were well used, followed by a couple of beers while listening to Scouting for Girls on the main stage.

The 10 mile course was on the Sunday and by this time everyone was already battered and bruised. Putting on soaking trainers and damp lycra, they headed to the start line for the final time. After 3 hours of torrential rain, giant hay bales, towering walls, and freezing rivers, the team made it back for that well deserved 3rd medal. In total, over £1000 was raised for the RAFBF and although it was several days before they could walk properly and the bruises started to fade, it was a strangely enjoyable weekend.

Marham Squash ClubInterested in playing squash?

The club meets every Tuesday at 1700

All abilities are welcome and equipment is providedFor interested members the club is looking to enter the Norfolk League and provide coaching at a small cost

Please put your details on the squash database on MOSS if you want to receive updates on the club and events. Go to: Marham MOSS – Community – Sports and Social Pages – Squash club – Squash files – Members

You can also contact the OiC or 2iC if you need any further information

Flt Lt Kris Parry SAC Martin JohnsonOiC 2iCx3563 MRM-TSSGSFAVOR03 x7376

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Swales Pavilion, RAF Wyton, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 2EA

©Shutterstock

20 miles of obstacle courses tackled to raise money for RAFBF


FEATURE RAINBOW CENTRE OFSTED REPORT

Staff, parents and children received the good news, with RAF Marham’s Station Commander, Gp Capt Rich Davies in attendance to congratulate the team and express his appreciation and give thanks for the support which they provide for families at the base. The centre which is the largest of its kind in Norfolk was described as providing a ‘superbly stimulating environment’ where leaders are considering how to share the high-quality practice with other providers.

The leadership was described as ‘inspirational’ with staff taking every opportunity to challenge children and ‘extend their learning to the highest level’. As the sun shone, Gp Capt Davies presented the centre with a large model Spitfire which will be displayed in the centre’s main hall. The model was one of King’s Lynn’s ‘Spitfire Trail’, in commemoration of the Battle of Britain’s 75th Anniversary last year, which was organised by 42 (F) Squadron King’s Lynn Cadets.

Gp Capt Davies said, “This is an amazing acheivement and an outstanding facility – this is all due to one inspirational lady and her fantastic team. You should all be very proud - three cheers for the Rainbow Centre Team!”

The Rainbow Centre childcare facility at RAF Marham, was built with funds received from the RAF Benevolent Fund and in recent years has had the addition of a new kitchen and an all weather shelter also funded by the charity. In total the RAF

RAF Marham’s Rainbow Centre has received another ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted Inspection Report. The glowing report

rated the childcare centre as outstanding in all aspects.

achieves another outstanding Ofsted report!

RAF MARHAM RAINBOW CENTRE

Benevolent Fund has invested almost a million pounds into the Centre. It is has quickly become a key facility for the families at RAF Marham who benefit from the flexible childcare it offers.

Paul Hewson, the RAF Benevolent Funds Regional Director for the South of England said, “The 'Outstanding' assessment following the recent Ofsted visit is richly deserved. The RAF Benevolent Fund is delighted that its significant financial investment continues to

help the RAF Marham community in such a tangible way. The Rainbow Childcare Centre is a terrific example of how the RAF Benevolent Fund is able to help improve the morale and well being of the serving RAF, which is set to continue providing essential support to station families for many years to come. Congratulations to Dee and all her team for all that they have done and continue to do for the children."

For Rainbow Centre Mangager Dee Gent and her

team it was back to business as usual which involves looking after the 400 children they have registered at the centre. Dee said, “Everyone at the Rainbow Centre Marham is ecstatic with the result of this inspection. We are delighted that our hard work has been recognised.”

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22 MARHAM MATTERS ISSUE 6 2016 ‘Deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’

NEWS VOLUNTEERS AND SWOS REUNITE

The RAF Association has 4,898 volunteers, who are integral to the successful implementation of the Association’s support and welfare schemes, providing support for the wider RAF family.Katharine Montgomery, Volunteer Manager, said, “our volunteers work tirelessly week in, week out in all sorts of ways. From fundraisers to befrienders to welfare caseworkers, we simply couldn’t operate without them.” As a token of appreciation for all their hard work, Air Marshal Sir Dusty Miller sent all Association volunteers a pin badge and thank you card during Volunteers’ Week.Jo volunteers as a RAFALO (RAF Association Liaison

Officer), a serving member of the RAF who provides a priceless link between serving personnel and the Association’s wider Branch network. Jo became a RAFALO when she was looking for more challenging secondary duties, quickly moving to take charge of the station RAFALO committee.As a RAFALO Jo engages with several local branches, assisting with fundraising, support and branch meetings, whilst organising station visits for branch members. She is also a keen advocate of the Befriending campaign, and believes, “it would be

really wonderful to be able to bring them back into the fold.” She would recommend being a volunteer for the Association to anyone as, “the RAF Association is a family and there are always things that people can get involved with.”While we hope they feel appreciated all year round, Volunteers’ Week provided

the RAF Association with the perfect opportunity to say a huge thank you to them all.To find out how to volunteer with the RAF Association or for roles in your area, please go to www.rafa.org.uk/volunteer

Volunteers donate thousands to support the RAF family

The Freedom of the Borough of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk is exercised every other year by RAF Marham, but this year was particularly poignant, being RAF Marham’s centenary year.It was also a unique occasion as three of Marham’s recent Station Warrant Officers and the current Station Warrant Officer were all in attendance, at the event, in their new roles. Warrant Officer Mo Howard served at RAF Marham for over seven years from 2003-2010 and is now back as an RAF Reservist as the Station Engagements Officer. Warrant Officer Paul Edwards took over the role in 2010 until 2012 when he left the service and became a Civics Officer for the King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council. WO Steve Roberts the mostly recently retired SWO served from 2014-2016, handed over to the current Station Warrant Officer WO Graham Spark last month, and attended the parade, making this his last official event before he retires from the service. WO Roberts is taking a part time role as the Curator and historian for RAF Marham’s Aviation Heritage Centre. WO Graham Spark the

current RAF Marham SWO, is photographer by trade and knows the station very well having served at RAF Marham in the past.It was remarkable to see all the SWO’s together, all in their new roles and reunited on this proud day, with RAF Marham exercising their Freedom of the Borough in this their centenary year.

Four RAF Marham SWO’s Reunited

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FEATURE FREEDOM OF THE BOROUGH PARADE

Freedom of the Borough of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Parade

Last month, servicemen and women marched through the streets of King’s Lynn to exercise the Freedom of the Borough of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk.The rain held off and the clouds cleared as two flights of personnel from RAF Marham paraded on the Tuesday Market Place where they were reviewed by the Mayor of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk. The Standard of 31 Squadron and the two supporting flights were accompanied by the Band of the Royal Air Force College Cranwell. A Tornado GR4 performed a flypast over the parade to the delight of the crowds who had braved the weather to watch. After the parade a Civic reception was held in the Town Hall.


NEWS QUEENS AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE

Tower Hamlets Air Cadets have been honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, which is the MBE for voluntary groups, and the highest award a voluntary group can receive from the state in the UK. The successful East London based cadet squadron, which was established in the wake of the 2011 London riots, has quickly become one of the largest cadet units in London, and has helped hundreds of young people earn valuable qualifications, undertake flying and take part in adventurous training. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK to recognise outstanding work in their communities. The awards were created in 2002 to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and winners are announced each year on 2 June – the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation. Volunteers from the squadron attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May, where they met the Queen and other winners of this year’s award. Cadets at the highly active unit have the chance to go flying and gliding, train in marksmanship, archery, sport, obstacle courses and parachuting, as well as earning recognised qualifications including St John Ambulance first aid qualifications, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and BTECs,

with the equivalent of over 100 GCSEs being awarded to Tower Hamlets Air Cadets in the last year alone. The group have been part of high profile parades at the Cenotaph, London Guildhall, St Paul’s Cathedral and twelve cadets even took part in BBC One’s ‘The One Show’ as part of the Battle of Britain Memorial celebrations in 2015. Cadets regularly take part in camps in the UK, and overseas, including Hong Kong, Cyprus, Gibraltar and Germany. Having recently been recognised as the best Air Cadet squadron in London and the South East, the group are now also in the running for the national level competition to identify the best squadron in the Royal Air Force Air Cadets. The group will receive the award from the Lord Lieutenant of Greater London later this summer. The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service Committee Chair, former broadcast journalist Sir Martyn Lewis said:“I warmly congratulate all of the inspirational voluntary groups who have been rewarded for their community work with a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. The judging panel for this year’s awards were struck by the quality and breadth of all the successful groups.The thousands of volunteers who give up spare time to help others in their community and to help solve problems demonstrate the very best of democracy in action.”

Minister for Civil Society, Rob Wilson MP, said:“I would like to congratulate all groups who received this year’s Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, in recognition of their fantastic achievements. The huge amount of work and commitment these organisations put into their local communities is surpassed only by the passion and motivation of the individuals who volunteer. I hope these groups continue to inspire others to get involved and make a positive impact so that we can continue to build a more compassionate society.” Hon. President 31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron Air Cadets, Jim Fitzpatrick MP, said:“I am very proud to be associated with the Air Cadets at Mile End and their volunteer officers. What they have achieved is amazing and it’s wonderful that their achievements are being recognised. These are young people representing every part of our borough, drawn from all communities and working proudly and effectively together. They are an example to us all.” Officer Commanding 31 Squadron Royal Air Force, Wing Commander James Freeborough, said:“My sincerest congratulations to Rex and the team – this award is exceptionally well deserved

and an achievement every single member of the Squadron should be proud of. I am in awe of the energy, dedication and commitment of the 31 Squadron (Tower Hamlets) team as they continue to make a significant difference to hundreds of young people’s lives in East London. Very well done.” Officer Commanding 31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron Air Cadets, Flight Lieutenant Rex Nicholls, said:“It is a huge honour for our cadets and the unit to receive this award. Since we formed, just four years ago, we’ve worked with hundreds of young people in the local area – and it is incredibly rewarding to see just how far some of them have come, regardless of background - and the opportunities they now enjoy. Our group is run entirely by volunteers, who have put in a huge amount of effort to help cadets to get the best out of themselves, and learn new skills. The award reflects the support we have received from 31 Squadron RAF, the Fishmongers Livery Company and the Canary Wharf Group and I would like to thank them today and our other supporters for their commitment to our cadets. We are opening to new recruits in July, so it’s a great time for young people aged 12-16 to get involved.”

QUEENS AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE 2016

31 (Tower Hamlets) Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets in London recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2016

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CHARITY CRICKET MATCH 20/20 SPORTNEWS STEP LINERS AT ST PAULS CATHEDRAL

On Friday 10 June 2016, five RAF Marham personnel had the honour of forming part of the Step Lining party for the Service of Thanksgiving for the 90th Birthday of Her Majesty The Queen held at St Paul’s Cathedral. Those lucky five were Sqn Ldr Andy Chase, WO Steve Wiseman, Sgt Ali Woods, Sgt Paul Farthing and Cpl Chris Pape.

Under the expert guidance of the London District Garrison Sergeant Major, WO1 Andrew Stokes of the Coldstream Guards, a disparate band of Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel were whipped into shape at Wellington Barracks before deploying for rehearsal at St Paul’s on Thursday 9th June. Despite the London traffic doing its best to delay us, all 83 personnel made it to rehearsals where we learnt to march up steps, about turn on steps and dress off at a bizarre angle to ensure that a funnel effect was achieved from the bottom of the West steps leading up to the West Door, where Her Majesty and members of the Royal Family and VIP guests would arrive for the Service of Thanksgiving.

When we originally volunteered we thought that we were just volunteering to line the steps of St Paul’s, no thought was given by any of us as to what would happen after everyone had arrived and the Service of Thanksgiving had begun. It was

to our great surprise that the GSM informed us that we would be taking part in the Service itself once our step lining duties were complete. Once the shock had worn off, we then rehearsed our departure from the steps and into the Cathedral itself. Once we had that cracked we were shown the Café deep down in the crypt which is where we were expected to rest prior to the event. I cannot adequately describe the sights I saw in Sir Christopher Wren’s amazing building; I walked past the final resting place of Lord Wellington, The Duke of York; Lord Nelson and Sir Christopher Wren himself, along with a multitude of stones and plaques recognising and remembering our Nation’s proud and long history. It is a building I will definitely be visiting in the future.

Once we had finished rehearsing we were transported back to RAF Halton and our accommodation, via Wellington Barracks where we were told in no uncertain terms that with a 0530 pick-up and at least an hour stood still, in No1’s in warm weather in full view of the public, we were to ensure that we eat a decent meal, were well hydrated and well rested. So after a nip into town for a curry, we got back to RAF Halton to spend the rest of the evening bulling shoes and polishing medals.

On the 0445 alarm and we were eager to get on with our day, the sun was shining, and it was warm

but not too hot, perfect for step lining duties. With light traffic into London and onto St Paul’s we were able to get some rehearsal’s in before we were dispatched to the crypt to remain out of sight until 1000. The café was busy with 83 military personnel all deciding that they required coffee & cake and we sat and chatted about the task we were about to perform. 1000 arrived and we formed up and marched onto the West steps of St Paul’s Cathedral at precisely 1000. Almost immediately VIPs began to arrive and we silently watched them from our privileged position. At 1020, the first of the official cars started arriving and we were brought to attention to mark the arrival of former Prime Minister Tony Blair, The Chancellor, George Osbourne and the Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon who had a quick chat with the imposing figure of the GSM in full guards uniform. Shortly after the Prime Minister and his wife

arrived and they were shortly followed by the Royal Family.

Finally Her Majesty arrived to a trumpeters fanfare and our chests swelled with pride as accompanied by Prince Phillip, who was celebrating his 95th birthday, she climbed the stairs to be formally welcomed to St Paul’s and her thanksgiving service. Once Her Majesty was inside the congregation sang the first hymn and in true military fashion we were quickly and smartly marched up into the Cathedral to be a part of this amazing day.

On behalf of all five of us I can say that this was one of the proudest moments of my military career, the chance to be a part of a unique occasion such as this and to be a small but vital part in Her Majesty’s 90th Birthday celebrations was a true honour.

Sqn Ldr Andy Chase

STEP LINERS AT St PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

The RAF Marham Station Cricket Team played the Station Commander’s Select XI on the afternoon of 23 May 16 at Swaffham Cricket Club in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support which provides support to anyone affected by cancer.

Macmillan assisted the late Station Training Officer and former OIC Marham Cricket, Flt Lt Ann-Marie Noble after she had been diagnosed with cancer. Ann-Marie fought hard against her cancer but tragically passed away in December 2013. She had been a keen supporter of cricket at RAF Marham and many of the Station team also knew her from her time at Cosford. Since Ann-Marie’s passing, the Station Cricket Team has organised a Charity Cricket Match to celebrate Ann-Marie’s life and to raise money for Macmillan.

This year was just that bit extra special as Ann-Marie’s sisters Philippa and Mellissa and Philippa’s son Alfie attended the event. In the morning of the match day, Ann-Marie’s

family visited 31 Squadron for a tour of a Tornado (hosted by Sgt Stu Youds, Dep OIC Cricket) followed by a visit to Ann-Marie’s former office in FDLS (hosted by FS Sam Randall). Throughout they were accompanied by Sgt Steph Wright (PSF).

After plenty of pre-match banter, the two teams assembled for the team photograph and at this early stage in proceedings, spirits were high as it looked like being a sunny afternoon. The two captains, SAC Ryan Tripp (Station team) and the Station Commander walked to the middle, and under the watchful eye of umpire Sgt Stu Youds, completed the toss using a 100th Commemorative Station coin. The Station team won and duly elected to bat.

The openers (Cpl Luke ‘Frenchie’ French and SAC Si Hudson) set about the Station Commander’s team’s rather indifferent bowling, and were starting to look dangerous when the first wicket fell. After some dropped catches (3 to be exact), FS Sam

Randall bowled what could only be described as a long hop, resulting in Frenchie lobbing it skywards and for the chance to be gratefully taken. The bowling continued with the Umpire regularly calling ‘wide’ before Wg Cdr Pete Daulby claimed 2 wickets to temporarily put the brakes on the Station team. As the score began to mount the Station Commander’s team morale was kept up by the regular cajoling and motivation by OIC Cricket Sqn Ldr Tim Casey. His energy and enthusiasm began to rub off on his ‘team’ and things began to improve until Wg Cdr Andy Fell began his bowling spell. From his 2 overs, 10 wides were delivered!! Something of a ‘dubious’ record perhaps? At this point, Cpl John Stewart (EP & R) had entered the fray and seemed to be batting for his ‘average’ as he regularly refused to run any more than absolutely necessary, to the obvious frustration of his batting partner (SAC Ben Lewis 12 Sqn). The howls of derision aimed at John for his ‘blatant’ hogging of the strike were heard from the crowd

but it all fell on deaf ears as John duly scored 26 to retire and finally allow someone else to have a go. After some spirited bowling, Tim Casey bagged another wicket but the Station team had scored 166-4 from their 20 overs. Notably, ‘Extras’ had amounted to some 62 runs of the total which was a testament to the spirited but ‘variable’ bowling of the Station Commander’s team. Amidst gentle banter from the Station team, the Station Commander’s openers (Sgt Chris Marchant and Sqn Ldr Andy Chase) began the reply. The opening over was uneventful, but then SAC Ross Evan (LSS RAF Brize Norton and previously stationed at RAF Marham) proceeded to bowl as if it was day one of an Ashes Test and removed Andy Chase!! Chris Marchant was out in the next over and things were not looking too good when salvation arrived in the form of the Station Commander and Sqn Ldr Tim Casey. Some very good batting followed and runs began to flow when Ross thought he had the

CHARITY CRICKET MATCH 20/20

Continued on Page 31


SPORT CHARITY CRICKET MATCH

Station Commander out LBW, but the Umpire, ever keen to ensure fair play (well it is Sgt annual Report time!!!!) decided ‘not out’. Evans was not impressed with this and even less so when the Station Commander skied the next ball to Frenchie who dropped the simple chance!! The Station Commander promptly ran up to Frenchie, gave him a high five and carried on!! After 10 overs, the Station Commander had hit the only six of both innings, which was greeted with the biggest cheer of

the day. The Station Commander and Tim Casey had to retire having both scored more than 25. The destiny of the innings, and the hopes of winning, fell upon the shoulders of the rest of the team. Sadly though, these hopes were misplaced as the wickets fell at regular intervals and, with 3 overs, to go FS Sam Randall and SAC Kirsty Sussex (both PSF) were left to try and score 70 to win! However, in true Boycott batting style they didn’t lose their wickets and added an additional 13 runs to the score

which resulted in the Station Commander’s team amassing 89-7 from their 20 overs. This meant the Station team had won the match but, ultimately, it was the occasion that mattered more. After the match, the Station Commander was asked to choose the ‘Player of the Match’ for each team and to select a ‘Champagne moment’!! The ‘Player of the Match’ for the Station team was awarded to SAC Nick ‘Pickles’ Thownsend (SES) for his best ever bowling and batting display. The ‘Player of the Match’ for the Station Commander’s team went to SAC Kirsty Sussex for her batting and bowling. The ‘Champagne Moment’ was awarded to Cpl Luke ‘Frenchie’ French for his dropped catch from the Station Commander!The Station Commander also presented the Flt Lt Ann-Marie Noble Memorial Cup to the Station Captain (SAC Ryan Tripp). This trophy was newly provided by Ann-Marie’s family as a permanent trophy for the Annual Charity

Match. Additionally, the Station Commanderr also presented a signed 100th anniversary print, a 100th commemorative coin and flowers to the family and to Sgt Steph Wright for hosting Ann-Marie’s family throughout. This was an excellent way to celebrate our former colleague and help a worthwhile cause. Planning has started ready for next year’s match.. During the game the whole of PSF had helped to sell the vast amount of cakes produced by the families of both team and a total of £600 has been raised for Macmillan. I’d like to thank all who helped in the organisation of this event, particularly Swaffham Cricket Club for hosting us and a thank you and well done to all who took part.

Sgt YoudsStation Team Deputy OIC

Continued from Page 31

On Sunday 29th May 2016 the Royal Navy Division from RAF Marham Meteorological office were invited to the Burnham Thorpe All Saints church to pay their respects to the 8648 British and German sailors who lost their lives at the Battle of Jutland on 31st May 1916. The Royal Navy personnel arrived early at the church to help prepare for the service. Part of this was erecting the specially made information boards on the Battle of Jutland. These boards were made to give visitors to the church an idea of the scale of the battle as well as information on the ships involved and how the battle unfolded. After the service, the sailors spent time with the public answering questions on the boards as well as general maritime life to provide a fitting naval presence at the church. The service itself was conducted by a previously serving Royal Marine, Reverend Graham

Hitchins, and was a fitting tribute to all who served in the Battle of Jutland. A reading of Nelsons prayer by Leading Hand Samantha Bruntlett in conjunction with a reading from John (Ch15:9-17) was read by Lt Cdr Andrew Taylor RN added a maritime atmosphere to what was already a very pertinent service. After the service had finished, the Reverend invited the congregation to join him in the traditional ‘tot’ of rum as well as refreshments provided by some of the local members of the church. Following the visit to the church, the Royal Navy invited Reverend Hitchins to join them for an afternoon meal at the Lord Nelson Pub, Burnham Thorpe. The pub which was built in 1637, was originally named The Plough until 1798 when it was changed to The Lord Nelson in honour of Nelsons victory over the French in the Battle Of The Nile (1st-3rd August 1798). Nelson

often visited the Pub, especially after 1788 when he settled in Norfolk with his wife and family.The visit to Burnham Thorpe All Saints church gave the serving Royal Navy time to reflect and remember the perils faced by those serving in the Royal Navy during the First World War as well as the sacrifices made by all the sailors at the Battle of Jutland. The opportunity to pay

their respects to all who gave their lives for their country at sea was greatly appreciated and will not be quickly forgotten. At the end of the service the Royal Navy Division then presented Reverend Graham Hitchins a memorial plaque on the history of HMS Nelson (1927-1948) which he gratefully received. A good day had by all involved.

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Documents

The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue 6 ... · the month of remembrance. The marathon is a long-distance running event with an official distance of 26 miles 385