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RAF Brize Norton Information handbook CONTENTS Foreword by the Station Commander Station History No 10 Squadron No 99 Sq

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RAF Brize Norton Information handbook

CONTENTS Foreword by the Station Commander Station History No 10 Squadron No 99 Squadron No 101 Squadron No 216 Squadron Operations Wing No 1 Parachute Training School Forward Support Wing Airport of Embarkation Wing (APOE) Administrative Wing The Defence Movements School Tactical Communications Wing Joint Air Transport Evaluation Unit No 501 Squadron (RAuxAF) Integrated Tasking and Operations Centre (ITOC) No 4624 Movements Squadron (RAuxAF) Medical Arrangements Dental Arrangements Chaplaincy Station Amenities Off the Station Useful General Information Local Schools

Designed by Paul King and published by The British Publishing Company Limited © 2005

FOREWORD BY THE STATION COMMANDER A very warm welcome to RAF Brize Norton which is the home of the RAF’s strategic air transport (AT) and air refuelling (AR) forces and the largest Station in the Royal Air Force with over 3 800 Service personnel and 700 civilians employed on site. The Station is also the home of No 1 Parachute Training School, the Tactical Communications Wing, a number of lodger units including the Joint Air Trials Evaluation Unit and the Defence Movements School as well as 2 Royal Auxiliary Air Force Squadrons. This mix of different roles and units makes Brize Norton a vibrant place to work and live. We have worked hard to ensure that the Station is not an impersonal place to live and work and, although you can expect a friendly reception, we know that the size of the Station and the widespread layout of the families quarters estate can be quite daunting to those who have not lived and worked here before. You will find the Station a busy place, with passengers, visitors and cargo arriving by road and air on a 24-hour basis, 365 days a year. As such, we are constantly in the public eye and depend on your contribution to maintain an efficient and effective operational capability. However, whilst you can expect your tour to be a busy one, you can look forward to taking advantage of an excellent range of sporting and leisure facilities on the Station and in the surrounding area. We are on the edge of the Cotswolds, one of the most beautiful parts of the United Kingdom, and enjoy an exceptionally good quality of life. This short welcome booklet aims to help you to settle quickly into the local area. It provides a brief history of the Squadrons and units to be found at RAF Brize Norton together with details of activities, services, recreational pursuits and entertainment available to you and your family, both on and off the Station and in the surrounding area. As you will see, there are plenty of opportunities to work hard and play hard at Brize Norton; enjoy your time here!

STATION HISTORY Construction of the airfield at the Brize Norton site began in 1935. Although most of the site lay within the parish boundary of Carterton, it was thought that there would be confusion with RAF Cardington in Bedfordshire, and hence it was decided to name the station after the next nearest village, Brize Norton. The official opening of RAF Brize Norton took place on 13 August 1937, with No 2 Flying Training School, the first unit to be stationed here, arrived on 7 September 1937, before the building programme had been completed. The Station was used for various forms of flying training until July 1942, when it became the home of the Heavy Glider Conversion Unit (HGCU), later renamed No 21 HGCU, which remained at RAF Brize Norton until 31 December 1945. Between March and October 1944 the Station was used as a base for parachute and glider operations by Nos 296 and 297 Squadrons, both equipped with Albemarles. On D-Day, these Squadrons were involved in dropping paratroops and launching Horsa gliders for the purpose of capturing bridges, six miles inland from the coast, over the River Orne and Caen Canal. On the same day, two more gliders were placed directly on a coastal battery controlling the estuary of the River Orne, which was in a position to oppose the seaborne landings. All of these operations were completed successfully. The Squadrons were involved in the airborne landings at Arnhem in September 1944, and throughout the period March-October 1944 they were also engaged in dropping personnel and supplies to the resistance movements in Europe. On 31 December 1945, RAF Brize Norton was transferred from Flying Training Command to Transport Command, and became the home of the Transport Command Development Unit and the School of Flight Efficiency. The Army Airborne Transport Development Unit joined these units in May 1946. Flying Training Command returned to the Station with No 204 AFTS in August 1949, but their stay was only to be a short one and they left in June 1950 when the first Americans began to arrive. The USAF formally accepted control of RAF Brize Norton on 16 April 1951. Until early 1952, the main task of the USAF elements at RAF Brize Norton was to support US Army engineers engaged in extending the runway and building taxyways, hard-standings and accommodation. In June 1952, 21 B36 Convair Peacemaker bombers of the USAF were the first American aircraft to arrive at RAF Brize Norton. The first jet bombers to land here were B47 Stratojets in September 1953. A rotation of bomber wings and refuelling squadrons continued until April 1958, with the exception of a period of runway reconstruction from October 1955 until September 1956. In April 1958, the Reflex alert concept came into force and, under this arrangement, units of Strategic Air Command were detached from the United States for a 90day tour of duty. A total of seven USAF bomber wings provided B47 aircraft for Reflex duty at RAF Brize Norton, the last one returning to the United States in April 1965.

On 1 April 1965 the RAF took back control of Brize Norton and it became a Transport Command airfield. Then, on the renaming of the Command in August 1967, it became an Air Support Command airfield. There followed a steady build up of personnel and facilities to make RAF Brize Norton the Strategic Air Transport (AT) base for the RAF. This included the construction of the Gateway House Hotel and the building of the £2 million Base Hangar, at that time the largest cantilever structure in Western Europe. Two Britannia Squadrons, Nos 99 and 511, joined the VC10s of No 10 Squadron and the Belfasts of No 53 Squadron in June 1970 to bring the Station up to its full operational strength. Early in 1972, the Station became part of No 46 Group, Strike Command and, in October 1975, became part of No 38 Group, Strike Command.

Following the 1974 Defence White Paper, Nos 53, 99 and 511 Squadrons were disbanded. No 10 Squadron remained to provide its worldwide role, and it was joined by No 115 Squadron in 1976, operating Argosy aircraft which were used to calibrate Service ground radio and radar aids. Andover aircraft replaced the Argosys and, in 1982, No 115 Squadron was moved to RAF Benson. To replace the disbanded Nos 53, 99 and 511 Squadrons, the following major units moved into RAF Brize Norton during 1976: the Joint Air Transport Establishment; No 38 Group Tactical Communications Wing (TCW); No 1 Parachute Training School and the RAF Movements School. In 1982, many TCW and Station personnel were deployed to Ascension Island in support of the Falkland Islands conflict. No 10 Squadron was heavily engaged with moving personnel, stores and ammunition to Ascension Island, and the recovery of casualties from Ascension and Montevideo. At the end of the War, No 10 Squadron repatriated hundreds of Servicemen back to their families. The Squadron then assumed the re-supply task for the new Falklands Garrison. Also in 1982, the Royal Auxiliary Air Force Squadrons were formed. No 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron and No 2624 (County of Oxford) Regiment Squadron recruited locally and were based at RAF Brize Norton. In 1983, the first Tristar arrived, and the following year No 216 Squadron was formed and the first VC10K was delivered to No 101 Squadron.

The usefulness of a large tanker force was graphically illustrated during RAF Brize Norton’s next major commitment, the Gulf War in 1991. No 101 Squadron deployed to the Gulf area, as did elements of No 216 Squadron. They provided air-to-air refuelling (AAR) support for the RAF’s fast jet assets as well as providing support for the US Navy and Marine Corps. No 10 Squadron, along with the balance of No 216 Squadron, provided logistic support into theatre. TCW and many individual station personnel also deployed into Saudi Arabia as part of the Multi-National Force. With the demise of the Victor force in 1993, RAF Brize Norton became the centre for all Air Refuelling (AR) operations in the RAF. During 1994, No 19 Squadron RAF Regiment, which was based at RAF Brize Norton for the purpose of providing Rapier missile defence for the United States Air Force bases at nearby RAF Upper Heyford and RAF Fairford, was disbanded. Over the years, the Station has maintained its links with the USAF, hosting several large-scale tanker deployments and culminating in a major operational deployment in 1999 providing support for the Kosovo air campaign. RAF Brize Norton’s assets were widely used, with aircraft from Nos 10, 101 and 216 Squadrons all playing key roles, whilst the USAF detachment flew 24 KC135 aircraft from the Station for the duration of the operation. At the same time, the nearby USAF base of RAF Fairford was launching B52 and B1 sorties. As a result, the airspace was sometimes quite crowded. On 1 April 2000, the Station became part of No 2 Group. The complement of flying squadrons was increased to four with the formation of No 99 Sqn and the arrival of C-17 aircraft in Summer 2001. Following the tragic incidents of 11 September 2001, RAF Brize Norton has played a significant role in the campaign against terrorism. A total of 7 aircraft and 500 personnel deployed to support operations in Afghanistan, and 12 aircraft and 600 personnel deployed in support of Operation TELIC (Iraq). For both operations, the Station undertook the movement of record numbers of passengers and massive amounts of freight before, during and after war fighting operations. Today, the Station is as busy as ever, being home to the entire RAF AR and Strategic AT fleets. Aircraft depart 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on worldwide operations, and any world hotspot or crisis invariably sees the arrival of VC10s, Tristars or C17s from RAF Brize Norton. In the future, as in the past, RAF Brize Norton will continue to play its part on the world stage, providing support and relief wherever it is most needed.

NO 10 SQUADRON (Disbanded 14 Oct 2005) No 10 Squadron is one of the oldest flying squadrons in the Royal Air Force having formed at Farnborough on 1 January 1915. During World War I, the Squadron operated BE2C bombers from various airfields in France and later flew the Armstrong Whitworth FK8 from Belgium. At the outbreak of the Second World War, the Squadron was equipped with the Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk1 bomber before upgrading to the more capable Handley Page Halifax in 1941. In addition to being involved in the sinking of the German battleship Tirpitz, No 10 Squadron flew in the 1000-bomber raid on Cologne and also bombed German ‘V’ rocket sites. The Squadron’s long affinity with the air transport (AT) role began in 1945 when it was re-equipped with the Douglas DC3 Dakota; this venerable aircraft won No 10 Squadron considerable accolades during the Berlin Airlift. In 1958, No 10 Squadron reverted to its original bomber role, when it was equipped with the Canberra and, subsequently, the Victor aircraft. By July 1996, when No 10 Squadron acquired the long-range Vickers Corporation VC10, it had operated 15 different types of aircraft before beginning its most recent association with the strategic AT role. Designated the VC10 type 1106 by Vickers and the VC10 CMk1 by the military, these aircraft were built specifically for the Royal Air Force. Highly efficient Super VC10 wings were mounted on the shorter Standard VC10 fuselage, which was also modified to incorporate a strengthened floor and a large freight door. Currently, the airframes of 11 aircraft have been fitted with wing mounted air refuelling (AR) pods, thereby qualifying No 10 Squadron to operate in the dual roles of AT and AR. The interior layout of the aircraft allows the carriage of 142 passengers, a combination of passengers and freight, or a full freight load. It can also be converted into the aeromedical evacuation role, carrying up to 78 stretcher patients and a mini operating theatre. In the AR role, the VC10 can dispense its own fuel to extend the range of fighter aircraft, while carrying the groundcrew required to service them. The VC10 has often represented No 10 Squadron in hotspots around the globe. Emergency evacuations have been conducted from Cyprus, Angola and Iran, and No 10 Squadron has supported UN peacekeeping forces across the Middle East. In 1982, the Squadron VC10s were fully committed

to Operation CORPORATE in the South Atlantic, both in the supply role and as a valued and speedy aeromedical evacuation platform. During Operation GRANBY, the Squadron supported Allied Forces in the Gulf by flying 1,326 sorties and more than 5,000 hours. From November 1993 to May 1997, a Squadron detachment in Bahrain provided AR support for the Tornado force deployed on Operation JURAL. In June 1997, the Squadron AR detachment deployed to Turkey, where it supports the enforcement of the no-fly zone over Northern Iraq as part of Operation RESINATE (NORTH). In October 2001, the Squadron once again showed its inherent flexibility when several aircraft and crews operated over Afghanistan refuelling US Navy fighters as part of Operation VERITAS. Having successfully completed this Operation, the aircraft and crew were re-tasked to help deploy and sustain the British element of the forces in Afghanistan. In October 2001, the engineers in 10 Squadron amalgamated with their counterparts in No 101 Squadron and were transferred to Engineering Wing. At the same time, aircrews from both Squadrons were collocated and they now operate as a combined VC10 Wing; mixed crews are a regular feature on the flying programme and 10 Squadron crews frequently man 101 Squadron aircraft. The flexibility that this collocation gave to the VC10 ‘Wing’ was proven during Op TELIC in 2003. A mixed detachment of ten 10 and 101 Sqn crews and 120 VC10 engineers provided AR support to coalition ac, operating 7 VC10 ac from Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. Simultaneously, 4 crews and 2 ac provided aeromedical support to British forces, flying casualties from Kuwait to RAF Akrotiri. Meanwhile, the balance of the 2 squadrons continued to fly AT and AR tasks from Brize Norton. In Jun 2003, following the cessation of hostilities, the squadrons took on the standing AR detachment at Muharraq in Bahrain, continuing to support Coalition ac flying over Iraq. No 10 Squadron’s Mission is to provide operationally effective, efficient and safe worldwide AT and AR in support of NATO and UK Armed Forces. Modern equipment and techniques enable the Squadron to meet this commitment and its ability to achieve the task under adverse conditions is tested on a regular basis. The Squadron’s crest depicts a feathered arrow and its motto ‘Rem Acu Tangere’ means ‘To Hit the Mark’. Despite originally reflecting 10 Squadron’s bomber role, the motto still serves to describe accurately the services of a highly valued and respected team operating in support of the Armed Forces’ global commitments. The VC10 aircraft is scheduled to be replaced under the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft project, and the current aircraft will gradually be retired in the coming years. As a result of this draw-down, and following a decision by the MOD to amalgamate the current aircraft and aircrew in to one VC10 squadron, No 10 Squadron was officially disbanded on 14th October 2005. No 101 Sqn will continue to fly the VC10 aircraft.

NO 99 SQUADRON No 99 Squadron was formed on 15 August 1917 at Yatesbury, Wiltshire, from manpower supplied by No 13 Training Unit. In April 1918, the Squadron was equipped with De Havilland DH9 aircraft, and was deployed to France to operate as a light bomber squadron. The Squadron took part in seventy-six strategic bombing missions directed at German industrial targets for the remainder of the First World War. In September 1918, the Squadron was re-supplied with DH9a bombers and in May 1919 was deployed to India to take part in aerial policing duties over India’s Northwest Frontier. In April 1920, the Squadron was disbanded and renamed No 27 Squadron. In 1924, No 99 Squadron reformed at Netheravon in Wiltshire and was equipped initially with the Vickers Vimy heavy bomber, followed by the single-engined Avro Aldershot. These aircraft were replaced in succession by Avro’s Hyderabad, Hinaidi and, in 1933, the Avro Heyford. During 1938 the Squadron converted to the Vickers Wellington bomber, an aircraft it would operate for the majority of the Second World War.

Photograph courtesy of Sgt Ian Daniels

On 8 September 1939, No 99 Squadron entered WW II with the first of many leaflet-dropping missions over Germany. The first bombing raids were launched on 17 April 1940 during the German invasion of Norway. European bombing operations continued until January 1942 when, once again, the Squadron was deployed to India. From its base at Digri, No 99 Squadron commenced night bombing raids against Japanese targets in Burma. In September 1944, the Squadron received its first American-manufactured aircraft, the Consolidated Liberator VI long-range bomber. Equipped with this new aircraft, in July 1945 the Squadron deployed from Dhubalia to the Cocos Islands in preparation for the possible invasion of Malaya. In November 1945, following the Japanese surrender, No 99 Squadron was disbanded. In 1949, No 99 Squadron reformed as a transport squadron equipped with Avro Yorks based at RAF Lyneham and it took part in the Berlin Airlift. It was then re-equipped with the Handley

Page Hastings later that year. During the Suez crisis in 1956, the Squadron operated out of Cyprus and dropped paratroopers on Port Said. In 1959, No 99 Squadron commenced worldwide strategic transport operations with its new Bristol Britannia aircraft. In June 1970, the Squadron moved to RAF Brize Norton, where it remained until 6 January 1976, when it was disbanded following the 1974 Defence White Paper. In July 1998, the Government’s Strategic Defence Review detailed a requirement for an aircraft capable of deploying the Joint Rapid Reaction Force. Specifically, the aircraft would need to be able to carry outsized loads such as helicopters and large military vehicles. On 16 May 2000, it was announced that the proposed Airbus A400M would provide Britain’s strategic airlift requirements. However, as a stopgap until the Airbus was in service, four Boeing C-17A Globemaster III aircraft would be leased for up to nine years. In November 2000, it was announced that No 99 Squadron would be reformed to operate the C-17 at RAF Brize Norton. The Squadron’s aircrew and groundcrew had already commenced their initial training alongside USAF C-17 colleagues at Altus and Charleston Air Force Bases. On 17 May 2001, the Squadron’s first C-17 was handed over to the RAF at a ceremony at Boeing’s Long Beach plant in California. The remaining three aircraft were delivered at approximately monthly intervals, with the last one received on 24 August 2001. Three years later, in 2004, the RAF announced that the aircraft had been so successful it was going to purchase the four leased aircraft and stated that it intended to purchase more C17 aircraft in the future. The C17 is a versatile strategic transport aircraft that can deliver outsized loads (up to 169,000 lbs) into small austere airfields with runways as short as 3000 feet. No 99 Squadron’s C-17s were initially the ‘Block 12’ version of the airlifter but are constantly being upgraded with new

software and equipment; the aircraft have extended range fuel tanks that increased the original aircraft’s range by some 15%. The Squadron normally operates the aircraft with a crew of three, two pilots and one airloadmaster. No 99 Squadron’s aircraft, ground and aircrews proved themselves when providing strategic airlift support for Exercise SAIF SAREEA II in Oman within weeks of the aircraft’s delivery to the UK. However, the effects of terrorist attacks in the USA on 11 September 2001 were to provide the Squadron with a significant challenge. No 99 Squadron was officially declared operational as a strategic airlift squadron on 1 January 2002, and within days the Squadron was tasked to fly re-supply missions into Afghanistan. The Squadron’s crews, with only a limited number of flying hours on type, found themselves flying in a high threat environment on nightly missions in and out of Kabul. The operational flying ethos that the Squadron employed so early after its reformation has remained at the heart of 99 Squadron since. Playing a major role in the build up to Operation TELIC, also known as Iraqi Freedom, the Squadron was then heavily involved throughout the offensive, flying into areas of direct threat and since then has flown regular missions into Iraq. More recently it has once again taken on the role of supplying troops in Afghanistan and is currently the main air-bridge to such troops. This is alongside uninterrupted flights to re-supply troops in Iraq and the undertaking of special flights into other operational theatres such as Balkan and African conflict areas. To increase the Squadron’s capability all crews are now trained to fly utilizing Night Vision Goggles to assist in tactical night-time approaches and captains are trained on an opportunity basis to use short, narrow runways. No 99 Squadron has, since its reformation, developed a reputation for capability, speed and professionalism. Considering the timescale from being declared operational, through to their initial operational tasking and their current role in the RAF, the Squadron members are justifiably proud of their achievements and of the 99 Squadron motto ‘Quisque Tenax’ - ‘Each Tenacious’.

NO 101 SQUADRON ROYAL AIR FORCE - A BRIEF HISTORY INTRODUCTION There can be few RAF units with a finer operational record than No 101 Squadron. In service from the Somme to Suez, Berlin to Baghdad, in Malaya, the Falklands and Afghanistan, 101 Squadron has endured tragedy and sacrifice while carving more than its fair share of glory as well as leading the way in the development of cutting edge aviation technology. THE GREAT WAR Formed on the 12 July 1917 at Farnborough, 101 Squadron was deployed rapidly to the Western Front to become the second specialist night-bomber unit in the Royal Flying Corps. Throughout the Battle of Menin Ridge, the 3rd Battle of Ypres and the Battle of Cambrai, 101 Squadron flew night bombing raids against German communication and supply centres. In February 1918 101 Squadron attacked several German long-range night bomber airfields in what was one of the first offensive counter air operations. The German army broke through the British line on the Somme in March 1918 and the Squadron was forced to evacuate its base at Catigney. After the Armistice, 101 Squadron was billeted in Belgium for occupation duties, but following the signing of the Versailles treaty in March 1919 it returned to England, where it disbanded on 31 December 1919. SIDESTRAND & OVERSTRAND No 101 Squadron reformed on the 21st March 1928 at RAF Bircham Newton in Norfolk, where it equipped with the Sidestrand day bomber. The high performance of the Sidestrand amazed crowds at the Hendon Air pageants, where it flew mock combat aerobatics with the fighters of the day. 101 Squadron Sidestrands won a number of bombing and reconnaissance competitions and carried out trial anti-shipping strikes against Royal Navy battleships. In December 1934 the squadron moved to RAF Bicester and a month later re-equipped with the improved Boulton Paul Overstrand, with uprated engines, autopilot, enclosed cockpit and introducing the first powered gun turret into RAF service. The Overstrand is forever commemorated in 101 Squadron’s official badge, approved by King George VI in 1938, featuring a fierce lion rampant issuant from a castle turret. WWII No 101 Squadron re-equipped with Bristol Blenheim monoplane bombers in June 1938 and moved to RAF West Raynham in May 1939 joining Bomber Command. With the fall of France, 101 Squadron became operational but its officer commanding, Wg Cdr J H Hargroves, and his crew were lost on its first bombing mission on 5th July 1940. Throughout the first years of the War, 101 Squadron carried out anti-shipping strikes and attacked German and French ports. In April 1941 the Squadron re-equipped with the Vickers Wellington and redeployed to RAF Oakington. On the 30th May 1942 ten 101 Squadron Wellingtons took part in the first 1,000 bomber raid on Cologne but losses began to mount and between July and September the Squadron lost 20 Wellingtons with 86 aircrew killed. Later that same year, 101 Squadron re-

equipped to become the first operational Avro Lancaster squadron in No 1 Group. In January 1943 Wg Cdr D A Riddick took command and led the Squadron through the Battles of the Ruhr. A few months later, 101 Squadron moved to its final wartime base, RAF Ludford Magna and its Lancaster crews participated in the battle of Hamburg and the raid on the secret German rocket site at Peenemunde. In September 1943 101 Squadron crews began to fly specially modified Lancasters fitted with top secret AIRBORNE CIGAR or ABC radio jamming equipment. An additional “Special Operator” joined each 101 Squadron crew to monitor this equipment. During the winter of 1943/4 No 101 Squadron crews fought in the Battle of Berlin but suffered high casualties. On the 31st March 1944, during the Nuremberg Raid, 101 Squadron lost 7 Lancasters and crews out of 26 dispatched. In the spring and summer of 1944 101 Squadron attacked targets in France in support of the allied invasion of Normandy. These raids were no milk runs and 4 crews were lost on 4th May in the raid on Mailly-le-Camp On D-Day, the squadron used "ABC" to jam nightfighter controllers to protect the British airborne landings. Returning to targets in Germany by the end of 1944, 101 Squadron Lancasters carried out a series of devastating raids on cities and ports and carried out their last attack on Berchtesgarden on 25th April 1945. During the bomber campaign against Germany, 101 Squadron flew on more raids than any other bomber squadron, but suffered the highest casualties of any RAF unit in the war, losing 1176 aircrew killed in action. BINBROOK In October 1945, the squadron moved to RAF Binbrook and equipped with Avro Lincoln bombers. Two years later, the Squadron deployed to Egypt and made a series of raids on rebel tribes around Aden. On the 25th May 1951, 101 Squadron became the RAF's first jet bomber unit with the delivery of its first EE Canberra B2. The Squadron deployed to Malaya early in 1955, where it carried out the first RAF jet bomber operations against terrorist targets on 25th April, 10 years to the day after its last WWII bombing raid. In June the following year 101 Squadron redeployed to Malaya, returning home in August only to be deployed again in October 1956 to Malta for the Suez Crisis, carrying out bombing raids against Egypt. The Canberras returned to Binbrook in November, where 101 Squadron was disbanded in February 1957. V-FORCE 101 Squadron reformed at RAF Finningley in Yorkshire in October 1957 to become the second RAF unit to fly the Avro Vulcan B1 and the first armed with British H-bombs. It

moved to RAF Waddington in 1961 and was the first Vulcan squadron to qualify in air-to-air refuelling (AAR). In July 1963 a flight of three 101 Squadron Vulcans broke the speed record for a flight from RAF Waddington to Perth, Australia in 17 hours and 50 minutes. 101 Squadron served in the free-fall nuclear bombing role for 25 years, longer than any other V-Force unit and, due to disband in May 1982, 101 Squadron Vulcans were called upon for one final task during Operation CORPORATE, the Falklands War. A 101 Squadron crew carried out the first and last Operation BLACKBUCK Vulcan conventional bombing raids on Argentinean forces occupying Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands. These 8,000 mile round trip missions required extensive use of AAR, showing the way forward for the next phase of 101 Squadron’s dramatic history. The Squadron disbanded on 4th August 1982, relinquishing its bombing role after 65 years service. TANKERS On the 1st May 1984 101 Squadron reformed at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire flying the VC10 K2 AAR tanker aircraft. Over the next few years it took delivery of 5 VC10 K2 and 4 VC10 K3s, all converted from civilian airline use. In the 1980s, during the last years of the Cold War, No 101 Squadron’s main operational role was supporting the UK's air defence aircraft as they intercepted Soviet intruder aircraft. It also supported a series of world-wide “out of area” exercise deployments, including Ex Saif Sereea I in 1986, when it refuelled RAF Tornado fighters and bombers flying non-stop to Oman. Notably, on the 8th April 1987 101 Squadron celebrated its 70th Anniversary by breaking its own non-stop speed record from UK to Australia. Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 brought a high demand for 101 Squadron’s AAR skills. VC10 tankers deployed RAF combat aircraft rapidly to the Gulf and then remained to support them in theatre. By January 1991 all nine of the Squadron’s K2 and K3 tankers were based in Saudi Arabia. It flew 381 AAR missions during the Op DESERT STORM Gulf War air campaign, refuelling British, French, Australian, Canadian and American aircraft. In March the Squadron returned home for a brief rest, but it returned to the Middle East in January 1992. Establishing a detachment in Turkey as part of Op WARDEN/NORTHERN WATCH, it flew over 1200 tanker missions over Northern Iraq. In May 1997 the Op WARDEN detachment was redeployed from Turkey to Bahrain in support of Op JURAL (later Op BOLTON) missions over Southern Iraq. Tensions began to build in the Gulf as Iraq tested the will of the Allied coalition and, in December 1998, 101 Squadron crews participated in Op DESERT FOX, providing AAR support to ground attack aircraft conducting air strikes on Iraqi air defence targets. While still committed to the air-policing role over Iraq, the Squadron was also tasked to fly in support of the Balkans crisis in 1993 with VC10 Ks deploying to Italy for Op DENY FLIGHT. However, it was not until March 1999 that the Balkan crisis reached its climax and NATO began air strikes against Serbia. 101 Squadron VC10 tankers were deployed to RAF Bruggen in Germany, flying seven-hour refuelling missions in support of Tornado bombing raids. In June the VC10s moved to Ancona in Italy, to support NATO and US Navy aircraft. These operations earned 101 Squadron the Battle Honour of “Kosova”.

With the withdrawal of the C-130 tanker from Service, it was decided to place a VC10 tanker in the Falkland Islands. From March 1996, 101 Squadron has had crews and aircraft permanently deployed to 1312 Flt at Mount Pleasant airfield, where they provide AAR support to the resident Tornado air defence aircraft and to the in-theatre Hercules. In more recent times, it has shared this detachment with the personnel of 10 Squadron. 101 Squadron crews were deployed on Ex SAIF SEREEA II in Oman when Op ORACLE air strikes commenced against the Taliban in Afghanistan following the events of 11 September 2000. VC10 tankers were duly called upon to support US navy aircraft operating from carriers in the Indian Ocean. During this period 101 Squadron operated alongside its sister VC10 squadron, 10 Squadron, sharing crews and aircraft and also flying Air Transport (AT) tasks. The crisis shifted back to Iraq in 2003 and 101 Squadron crews were heavily involved in Op TELIC and with the final overthrow of Saddam Hussein’s regime. The considerable AAR experience of the Squadron’s crews, gained over 12 years of continuous deployment in the Middle East, paid dividends. Despite sandstorms and damage from hostile fire, the Squadron achieved a 100% sortie success rate. Indeed, one such incident of hostile fire earned a 101 Sqn captain a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service. In addition, 101 Squadron crews helped evacuate over 1000 casualties to hospitals in Cyprus. Today, 101 Squadron continues to be deployed to the Gulf and to the Falklands, as well as supporting a multitude of global commitments for the UK Armed Forces in both AAR and AT roles. Among their latest tasks was the successful AAR deployment and recovery of 2 Eurofighter Typhoons to Singapore in late 2004. With over 20 years in the role its crews are the most experienced AAR operators in the world, building on a proud heritage of courage, determination and professionalism. Their operational record is second to none.

NO 216 SQUADRON No 216 Squadron was formed on 1 April 1918, from 16 Squadron Royal Naval Air Service, at Villesneux, France, and was equipped initially with Handley Page 0/400 night bombers. It was tasked with strategic bombing duties for the remainder of World War I, and was transferred to Egypt in July 1919. Until the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East theatre in June 1940, the Squadron was engaged mainly in transport flying duties, being designated a bomber-transport squadron in April 1931. De Havilland DH10s replaced the Handley Page 0/400s in the 1920/21 period and these aircraft were progressively replaced by Vickers Vimy, Victoria and Valentia aircraft. With the arrival of the Bombay in October 1939, which were used for bombing duties, the Vickers Valentia became the Squadron’s transport aircraft. In 1940, the Squadron received its first Wellingtons. Its task was concentrated on transport flying, moving troops around the Middle East and Greek theatres of operations, as well as keeping open the supply and reinforcement route across Africa to the Gold Coast. Among the Squadron’s duties for this period were flights to evacuate the troops from Greece and supplying the besieged bases at Habbaniya and Tobruk. In July 1942, the Squadron began to re-equip with Lockheed Hudsons and, in March 1943, the first Douglas Dakota arrived; later that year the last of the Squadron’s Bombays were withdrawn. No 216 Squadron’s wartime tasks also

included dropping airborne forces in the Aegean Islands and resupplying the 14th Army in the Far Eastern theatre. General transport flying duties continued after the War, with the Squadron’s Dakotas being replaced with Vickers Valettas in November 1949. In November 1955, the Squadron returned to the United Kingdom; in June 1956, the Squadron received the first de Havilland Comet 2 aircraft, and became the first military Jet Transport Squadron equipped with the larger Comet 4c. The Squadron continued to operate these aircraft in the transport role, particularly for Royal and VIP flights, until being disbanded in June 1975. No 216 Squadron’s inactivity was, however, to be short-lived. In July 1979, the Squadron was reformed at RAF Honington, and equipped with the Blackburn Buccaneer S2B; for the first time in many years it had returned to the bombing role in the Maritime Strike/Attack field. In 1980, the Squadron was moved to RAF Lossiemouth, until the reduction in the number of aircraft engaged on this role necessitated the Squadron’s retirement for the second time in its history. Following the Falklands conflict in 1982, a requirement for more tanker aircraft became apparent. The Ministry of Defence purchased nine Tristar 500s from British Airways and Pan American Airways, and in August 1983, the first aircrew arrived at RAF Brize Norton to begin training with British Airways flight deck crews. By February 1984 the RAF crews were fully qualified and, in November 1984, No 216 Squadron was officially reformed. In December 1985, a thrice-weekly schedule to the Falkland Islands commenced and, although now reduced to a twice-weekly schedule, this remains the main task of the Squadron. In March 1986, the first of the converted tankers was delivered to the Squadron. At the end of 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait; 216 Squadron made a significant contribution to the Allied operation to defend Saudi Arabia and free Kuwait (Operation GRANBY). The Squadron transported vast quantities of men and material from Germany, Cyprus and the UK to the Middle East. In addition, with the UK’s other Tanker squadrons, the Tanker variants were in constant demand to provide Air to Air Refuelling (AAR) support for deployments of fast jet aircraft to and from the Gulf. On 6 January 1991, a single K1 aircraft, together with a small detachment of Squadron personnel, were deployed to Riyadh to support the RAF fighter force and other probeequipped receivers. By the time this detachment was withdrawn in March 1991, the single aircraft had flown over 90 AAR missions, accumulating over 430 flying hours and transferring 3,100,000 kg of fuel.

In response to the UN decision to establish a no-fly zone over Bosnia-Herzegovina, two K1 aircraft were deployed to Italy in June 1993 to provide AAR, primarily for the British combat aircraft. In March 1999, as the situation in the Balkan region deteriorated, Operation ALLIED FORCE was initiated, and No 216 Sqn was involved from the first night of the hostilities. Throughout the Operation, No 216 Sqn had five tanker aircraft in theatre, flying a total of 230 missions with a 100% success rate; some 13.5 million lbs of fuel were given to 1580 aircraft from seven countries. The success of the campaign resulted in the award of the DFC to one of the Squadron pilots, along with 4 other awards to aircrew for gallantry. The Squadron remained in Italy until July 2001, ensuring that peace prevailed in the volatile Balkan region. Between August 2001 and March 2003, the Squadron took over Operation RESINATE (South) from 101 Squadron. This detachment, based in Bahrain, supported the long-standing commitment by UN Forces to maintain the no-fly zone over Southern Iraq. Following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, No 216 Squadron has been heavily involved in Operation ORACLE, the war against terrorism in Afghanistan. During the course of operations, the Squadron had the distinction of being the first Allied tanker asset to enter Afghanistan airspace, and in a period of just 4 months had dispensed more than 10,000 tons of fuel to coalition aircraft. The war in Iraq (Operation TELIC) saw 216 Squadron heavily involved in ensuring Coalition victory. Throughout the duration of the conflict, the Tristars of 216 Squadron flew approximately 300 AAR missions, amassing 1500 flying hours and dispensing in excess of 9000,00 kg of fuel to Coalition aircraft. In the Air Transport role the Squadron deployed 16,000 personnel and 700 tonnes of freight to the Middle East. Bought as a response to the identified need after the Falklands War for a strategic tanker aircraft, the Tristar’s capability for AT, AAR and joint AT-AAR operations produces a remarkably versatile type, which No 216 Squadron expects to operate well into the 21st century.

Operations wing Operations Wing encompasses a wide range of activities from flight planning to mission preparation and from air traffic control to fire fighting; it is the heart of all flying activities at RAF Brize Norton. The Headquarters is situated in the Air Terminal and from here Station Operations Squadron coordinates the movements and monitors the progress of all aircraft based at RAF Brize Norton. Whether it is a VC10 on a North Sea air-to-air refuelling sortie, a Tristar at Ascension Island or a C17 supporting operations in some farflung part of the world, the personnel of Station Operations are there to ensure that our aircraft are fully supported 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Operations Wing provides a worldwide flight planning capability, aviation information facilities, meteorological services and support to visiting aircraft, including frequent visiting VIP flights and a variety of civilian aircraft movements. The Headquarters also provides intelligence and tactical briefings, through a dedicated Mission Support Cell, to all Brize Norton aircraft departing to the various operational theatres around the world. Air Traffic Control (ATC) Squadron and the Fire Section are the responsibility of the Senior Air Traffic Control Officer (SATCO). In 1971, with the increasingly congested airspace due to the large number of local airfields, ‘Oxford Radar’ was established at RAF Brize Norton. Its role was to provide much needed centralised control to the surrounding airspace and to manage the increasing flow of transiting aircraft. By 1992 Oxford Radar had been renamed Brize Radar, received its own Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) and, shortly afterwards, a new Watchman airfield radar. The Unit reverted to a Terminal ATC role in July 1998. ATC is also open 24 hours every day and handles approximately 110,000 aircraft movements annually. Radar services are provided to transiting aircraft within a 60nm radius of Brize Norton. The aerodrome

supports a wide variety of aircraft types, from light aircraft to huge Antonov 124 heavy-lift aircraft. The ATC Squadron also provides ATC services for nearby RAF Fairford and plays a vital role in coordinating the annual Royal International Air Tattoo which is the largest flying display in Europe. All of this is achieved in the midst of one of the most congested pieces of airspace in the UK. The Fire Section, part of ATC Squadron, is the largest RAF Fire Section, permanently committed to the provision of category 5A fire cover (required for large passenger-carrying airliners). The Section is equipped with the latest Carmichael MFV fire vehicles, and was the first RAF Fire Section to receive the new Rapid Intervention Vehicle in 2000. The fire section also provides fire safety advice and domestic fire cover for arguably the largest RAF base. Ops Wing also parents No 1 Parachute Training School. Operations Wing is also home to 2 small specialist units. The Standards and Evaluation unit (STANEVAL) is a small cadre of highly-qualified aircrew whose task is the continuous maintenance of flying standards for VC10 and Tristar aircrews, as well as the provision of specialist advice on flying matters to the Station executives. The second unit is a Course Design Team (CDT), responsible to the Officer Commanding STANEVAL, and tasked to provide specialist training advice to RAF Brize Norton units.

NO 1 PARACHUTE TRAINING SCHOOL (No 1 PTS) In April 1940 Winston Churchill ordered the formation of an airborne division, made up of glider-borne and parachute troops. Professional training of these units was originally established at the Central Landing Establishment at RAF Ringway, Manchester. The twin responsibilities of instruction and despatching for parachute operations were well discharged by the RAF’s newly formed Parachute Jump Instructor (PJI) cadre who, to this day, are drawn from the Physical Training Branch. In the early years, despite a lack of experience and procedures during the infancy of airborne insertion skills, PJIs played a decisive role through their support of airborne forces during numerous Second World War assaults, particularly 1944’s Operation Overlord in Normandy and Operation Market Garden in Arnhem. A strong bond between PJIs and airborne troops, based on tradition and mutual respect, has developed over the years and remains strong to the present day. Demands for airborne soldiers in other war areas led to the establishment of other parachute training schools in India, the Middle East and Italy. After the War, RAF Ringway was returned

to Manchester City Corporation and the School moved to RAF Upper Heyford in Oxfordshire. Its association with RAF Abingdon began in 1950 and ended when the School moved to RAF Brize Norton in March 1976. Throughout its history, the School has utilised many aircraft to provide the platforms for training and operations, including the Whitley, Halifax, Dakota, Valetta, Hastings, Beverly, Argosy and Andover. Currently, Lyneham squadrons provide the crews and aircraft (Hercules C130K and C130J) to support the majority of PTS’s work. Presently, No 1 PTS is populated by 7 officers and 52 SNCOs who are responsible for delivering initial training on all parachute types used by airborne forces. The Parachute Course Administration Unit, commanded and staffed by personnel from the Parachute Regiment, provides essential support and is now collocated with No 1 PTS. Instruction ranges from static line low level parachuting for entitled 16 Air Assault Brigade, Royal Marines and RAF Regiment personnel, to high altitude freefall courses tailored to the needs of UK Special Forces. The more specialist instruction is conducted overseas in the sunnier climate of South Africa and the Californian desert; parachute descents are conducted from heights of up to

25,000’, at night with full combat equipment. Furthermore, No 1 PTS provides PJI training at elementary and advanced levels so that all PJI established posts, including those at dedicated parachute support detachments (Hereford, Poole, Wattisham, JATEU and QINETIQ) can be properly filled with correctly qualified and experienced PJIs. The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team also reside at No 1 PTS; the Team has a dual function to provide a public relations vehicle for the RAF and also to develop the skill sets and experience so that UK Armed Forces’ demand for qualified freefall instructors can be balanced. The RAF Falcons conduct at least 90 parachute displays every year throughout the UK and Europe; in order to conduct training and displays they use a variety of jump platforms, including C130, Puma and civilian aircraft. Finally, No 1 PTS discharges the function of running the Joint Service Adventurous Training Scheme at RAF Weston on the Green near Oxford. A staff of 5 PJIs and a small support component ensure that basic and advanced sports parachute courses offer service personnel the opportunity to participate in this exciting and exceptionally challenging activity.

Forward Support wing Forward Support Wing (Fwd Spt Wg) was formed on 4 Apr 05. It brought together those logistic organisations directly supporting the operational output of the Station. Fwd Spt Wg is the largest single organisation at RAF Brize Norton and comprises four squadrons with an established strength of about 750 Servicemen and 75 civilians. The four squadrons are broken down as Engineering Operations Squadron (EOS), Engineering Support Squadron (ESS), Forward Logistic Squadron (FLS) and No 10/101 (Engineering) Squadron. The coordination of all engineering activities in direct support of the operational output of the Station falls to EOS, which is divided into 2 flights: Plans and Coordination Flight (PCF) and Communications and Information Systems Engineering Flight (CIS Eng Flt). PCF controls aircraft maintenance documentation procedures, provides quality assurance and, through the Station Publications and Forms Store (SPFS), issues the many publications and forms required on the Unit. However, the focal point of the Flight is Engineering Operations (Eng Ops), based in the Station Operations Room, where the Duty Engineering Operations Controller (DEOC) allocates resources for flight-line support in liaison with the operations and movements staffs. CIS Eng Flt provides maintenance for airfield navigation aids, ground-to-air communications and ground-based communications systems, as well as the Base Network Communications Centre (BNCC) and IS facilities on the Station.

The 3 flights that make up ESS are General Engineering Flight (GEF), Armament Engineering Flight (AEF) and Parachute Engineering Flight (PEF). Each flight has its own distinct areas of responsibility, entailing maintenance of equipment associated with aircraft support and/or other military activities, such as parachuting. GEF looks after a broad range of equipment, from complex aircraft ground support equipment to domestic electrical items. AEF is subdivided into 2 sections maintaining arms and munitions, aircraft survival equipment and flying clothing. PEF undertakes parachute maintenance in direct support of specialist parachuting for all 3 Services. FLS contains the vast majority of the Station’s uniformed supply trade strength, and provides most of the services associated with a normal Supply Squadron. The Sqn comprises 4 flights: Aircraft Resource Management Flight (ARMF), Logistic Plans and Mobility Flight (LPMF), Supply Control & Accounting Flight (SCAF) and Base Supply Flight (BSF). ARMF is responsible for priority progression of urgent spares, providing 24 hour cover to all of Brize Norton’s aircraft tasked around the globe and the management of repairable assets on Station, interfacing with civilian companies on many support contracts. LPMF provides on-site supply support to Tactical Communications Wing, aircraft deployed overseas through spares packups and mobility support across the whole of Brize Norton. SCAF is responsible for the Station’s stock account and inventory records, in addition to local purchases, vehicle hire and allotment, and procuring all IT and office machinery. In addition to being the single focal point for the receipt and despatch for all RAF Brize Norton’s inbound and outbound freight, BSF is responsible for the storage of the vast majority of the Station’s stocks of aircraft and vehicle components, also IT and domestic items. Finally, No 10/101 (Engineering) Squadron is responsible for First Line maintenance of the VC10 fleet of aircraft based at RAF Brize Norton. Split between 4 shifts, the Squadron is responsible for the day-to-day running of the aircraft and for ensuring that aircraft are in the correct role fit for the designated mission. Other elements of the Squadron include Heavy Rectifications Flight (HRF), responsible for rectifying major aircraft faults, and Support Flight, responsible for the ground support of the aircraft wherever they are in the world.

Airport of Embarkation Wing (APOE Wg)

APOE Wg encompasses a diverse range of Airport support functions, ranging from Air Movements, Motor Transport, Airfield Support Mechanical Transport, Fuels and Lubricants, Catering and Contract Monitoring. Large parts of the Station’s support are run under a MultiActivity Contract (MAC), where Serco Defence & Aerospace provide a significant amount of engineering support and other services. AIR MOVEMENTS SQUADRON Air Movements Squadron at Brize Norton is the largest base Movements Squadron in the Royal Air Force, providing support to Air Transport, Air Refuelling and MoD civilian charter flights to and from the United Kingdom, to destinations worldwide. Led by a Squadron Leader of the Supply and Movements specialisation the Squadron comprises over 200 Service personnel, MoD civil servants and Serco civilian employees. They operate 24 hours a day, 365 a year to move nearly 200,000 passengers and 23 million kg of Freight, Bags and Mail each year in support of the British Armed Forces in all theatres throughout the world. AIRPORT OF EMBARKATION WING CHIEF OF STAFF The APOE Wg COS is run by a Squadron Leader who is responsible for the co-ordination of Wing activities, management planning and project development. In particular he is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of Fuels and Lubricants (F&L) Flight, Airfield Support Mechanical Transport (ASMT) Flight, Contract Implementation & Monitoring Team (CIMT), APOE Wg Adjutant and the APOE Wg Business Manager.

AIRFIELD SUPPORT MECHANICAL TRANSPORT (ASMT) FLIGHT ASMT operates and maintains one of the largest and most diverse fleet of specialist vehicles in the Royal Air Force. With over 100 Service and Civilian personnel, they provide a range of services and equipment including: aircraft refuellers, air cargo handling equipment, heavy aircraft tractors, de-icing and snow clearing equipment and vehicles. ASMT is also home to the Royal Air Force’s only Specialist Training School which trains in the region of 1200 students per year in preparation for Out of Area detachments on all types of ASMT vehicles. FUELS AND LUBRICANTS (F&L) FLIGHT F&L Flight is one of the very few stand-alone Fuels and Lubricant organisations in the Royal Air Force, operating the only UK hydrant aircraft refuelling system. Tasks include the storage of aircraft fuel, maintenance of specialist equipment and the provision of refuelling personnel and equipment. The Ground Fuels element of the Flight manage all ground based fuels, packed stocks and cylinders and is the focal point for special waste management. CONTRACT IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING TEAM (CIMT) The main element of the CIMT’s duties is to monitor the day-to-day output and performance of the MAC service provider. APOE Wg COS acts as the Designated Representative on behalf of the Station Commander in these matters. The CIMT reacts to all reports on contract performance and keeps under constant review all performance standards and indicators relevant to the Contract. The CIMT is located in the Avionics Maintenance Centre (AVMC). BRIZE TRANSPORT SQUADRON Brize Transport Squadron comprises 89 MOD civil servants, including 76 drivers, and is responsible for some 400 vehicles ranging from contracted cars, through mini-buses and coaches, to heavy 38-ton freight carriers. Brize Transport provides 24-hour cover in support of the Station’s operations, including the transporting of passengers and freight. BRIZE CATERING SQUADRON Brize Catering Squadron comprises a mix of Service and civilian personnel, commanded by a civilian Catering Manager with an RAF Catering Officer as the deputy. It includes in-flight catering and the Officers’ and Sergeants’ Messes, as well as two sections of wider interest: Gateway House operates as the transit accommodation for personnel and passengers passing through RAF Brize Norton. Its workload can vary from being minimal one day to catering for several hundred the next. The Junior Ranks’ Mess (JRM) is one of the largest and best of its kind in the RAF, with a bright and spacious dining room served by modern kitchens. A Grill Bar, Salad / Sandwich Bar, Healthy Eating Bar, Coffee Lounge and Patio, all finished to the same high standard of decoration, add to the pleasant ambience. Meal times are published in SROs and are displayed at the Restaurant entrance. Personnel proceeding on duty may obtain the unconsumed portion of the day’s rations as packed meals, but please note that 24 hours notice is required to take advantage of this facility. The Mess operates a no smoking policy and a minimum dress standard. Casual meal tickets can be purchased from the Main Guardroom between 10301430 hours and from 1630 onwards.

SERCO DEFENCE AND AEROSPACE Serco is responsible for providing second line and deeper maintenance to many of the systems on the VC10 and, to a lesser extent, the Tristar. Serco activities cover a wide range of tasks, and include provision of supply support for all of them. These activities include: • Bay Support for avionics, airframes, engines and air-to-air refuelling pods. • Photographic services for all unit requirements. • Role equipment. • Flight line services for visiting aircraft. • Aircraft washing facilities. • Station Workshops, including aircraft welding and carpentry. • IT and computer maintenance for Unit assets, including the Station’s Intranet. • Vehicle maintenance for “grey fleet” vehicles, under local contracts. In addition, Serco provide support to the Station through Security - Control of Entry and Pass Issue duties, domestic and aircraft cleaning and elements of the aircraft Movements tasks where they are integrated with the RAF Movements staff. Through sub-contracts Serco also provide domestic services that includes tailoring, general and specialist waste disposal including recycling where appropriate, laundry, window cleaning and pest control services.

Administrative Wing Administrative Wing encompasses a wide range of personnel, welfare, facilities management, security and training activities on the Station, and includes medical, dental and chaplaincy services. Administrative Wing Headquarters (Admin Wing HQ) is located in Building 24, close to the Main Guardroom. PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT SQUADRON (PMS) Located in Building 25, immediately opposite the Main Guardroom and next to Admin Wing HQ, the main elements of PMS are Personnel Services Flight (PSF), P1 and P2. As a whole, the Squadron is responsible for all aspects of personnel administration for Service personnel, including pay, careers, legal matters and welfare. In addition, OC PMS is the Station Equal Opportunities Advisor. The General Office is open between 0800-1700 hours. STATION SERVICES SQUADRON (SSS) Located in Admin Wing HQ, the main elements of SSS are Works Services Flight (WSF) and the Station Adjutant’s Flight. While WSF is responsible for the processing of all routine and response maintenance and planned works on the Station’s buildings and associated infrastructure (except communications systems), the Station Adjutant’s Flight covers a variety of roles including discipline, accommodation, registry services, typing services and reprographics. Personnel should note that requests for works services must be submitted through a building custodian. All requests will be treated realistically against current financial constraints. At present, works may be completed on a ‘self-help’ basis, providing they are allowed within Health & Safety regulations; WSF must approve ‘self-help’ work before it is carried out. Single junior ranks requiring temporary or permanent accommodation are to apply in advance or on arrival through the Station Disciplinary Office in Admin Wing HQ. STATION FINANCE The Budgets and Programmes staff are located upstairs in Admin Wing HQ and they are responsible for assisting the Station Commander in controlling the Station budget and Short Term Plan. In addition, they provide management planning capability in areas such as establishments, parenting of other units, risk management and efficiency. The Station Accounts Flight, located in the PMS building next to Admin Wing HQ, is responsible for the provision of accounting services for Station personnel and comprises Allowances, Bills and Recoveries, Flight Sub Imprests, SFAS audit and the Cashier’s Office. The Flight is open weekdays from 0800-1700 hours and, although officially closed for lunch, there is usually someone available to help with any enquiries. The Cashier Office is open for public and non-public transactions between 0815-1230 hours, Monday to Friday, and for nonpublic transactions only between 1400-1515 hours Monday to Thursday and 1400-1500 hours on Friday. As Accounts Flight is not part of PMS, personnel should always approach the relevant Accounts Section for advice on allowances rather than their particular PD clerk.

Personnel are invited to approach the Allowances staff to ensure that they have claimed for all they are entitled to. SECURITY SQUADRON Security Squadron comprises the RAF Police and Security Flight, and the RAF Regiment Flight. RAF POLICE AND SECURITY FLIGHT The RAF Police and Security Flight offers a wide range of services. Specialist staff are available to provide advice on Counter Intelligence, Crime Prevention, Counter Terrorist and Computer Security matters. RAF Brize Norton also has a resident MOD Policeman (Tel 845448) who is able to offer specialist advice on civil police matters. The Flight is manned 24 hours to provide advice and assistance. If you have any enquiries, or require assistance, contact the RAF Police duty staff on extension 6666. PASSES AND PERMITS The Station maintains a strict control of entry system. Passes for the families of Service personnel are issued from the Passes and Permits Office, located at the Main Entrance. All motor vehicles, including motor cycles, must be registered with, and a vehicle pass obtained from, the Passes and Permits Office. A valid certificate of insurance and, if necessary, MOT test certificate, must be produced when registering a vehicle. The Passes and Permits Office is open Monday to Thursday between 0830-1130 hours and 1230-1530 hours; please note that the Office is closed on Friday. COUNTER TERRORISM Whilst much can be done by the Service to protect you and your family from any terrorist threat, prime responsibility for your security rests with you. Do follow the advice you are given and pass it on to your families. If you see anything remotely suspicious, you should immediately inform the RAF or Civil Police. Remember, the life you save may be your own or that of a member of your family. CRIME PREVENTION Crime prevention is the responsibility of all personnel. Do lock away and put out of sight all valuable and attractive items. Valuables should be marked with an indelible pen or engraved with the Service Property Code ‘MOD UK’ followed by the owner’s Service Number, eg MOD UK A1234567. If you live in Families Quarters and expect to be away for an extended period, inform the RAF Police Flight, who will ensure that your Families Quarter is visited by patrols during your absence. If you do see anything which arouses your suspicions, do not hesitate to report it to the RAF Police. PHOTOGRAPHY With the exception of the Families Quarters and domestic areas, photography is not permitted on the Station without the authority of the Station Security Officer. RAF POLICE DOGS RAF Police dog teams patrol various parts of the Station. RAF Police dogs are aggressive and you should not approach one unless authorized to do so by the RAF Police dog handler. If, inadvertently, you should stray into an RAF Police dog patrol area and are challenged by a dog handler you should stand still immediately.

USEFUL NUMBERS • Police Flight (manned 24 hours) – Ext 6666 • Counter Intelligence – Ext 6218 • Special Investigations – Ext 6217 • MOD Police / Community RAF Police – Carterton 845448 RAF REGIMENT FLIGHT The RAF Regiment Flight, which also forms part of Security Squadron, provides the Station with training for its personnel in Common Core Skills (CCS), Station Guard training, Individual Reinforcement Training for Out-of-Area detachments, Survive To Operate and Nuclear Accident Response. The Regiment Flight is located within Training Development Squadron building and is manned during normal working hours. All course dates are detailed in SROs and on the SAMA system, and can be booked either directly with the Regiment Administration Clerk on Ext 7204 or via SAMA. Courses start at 0800 hours in the Regiment Cinema and you are to ensure that you are in possession of the personal equipment detailed in Station Routine Orders. If you have any questions regarding CCS, please contact the Regiment Administration Clerk, but in the first instance you can speak to your flight/section CCS Coordinator who is responsible for ensuring you are continuously current in CCS. Please remember that when you come to the Regiment Flight for CCS you will undertake practical and written tests in NBC, First Aid, Skill at Arms and Post Attack Recovery. To pass these tests you will need to read your Aide Memoire. For additional help you can obtain, from the Regiment Flight or your CCS Coordinator, the CCS video that covers all you will be required to do on the day. FORCE DEVELOPMENT SQUADRON (FD SQN) FD Sqn’s role is to facilitate the professional, physical and personal development of personnel, both at RAF Brize Norton and its parented units. FD Sqn comprises the Training Support Flight (Trg Spt Flt), the Learning Centre and the Physical Education Flight (PEd Flt). The Learning Centre, previously known as the Education Centre, is located in Building 76 on the main road through the Station and houses both the Trg Spt Flt and Learning Centre staffs. TRAINING SUPPORT FLIGHT One of Trg Spt Flt’s main activities is to provide assessment of training development needs through a combination of visits, consultation meetings and audits; it also provides advice and consultancy on all training matters, including NVQs and specific learning difficulties (dyslexia). There are several classrooms within Trg Spt Flt for use by all Station personnel, including a computer training suite for IT training. Trg Spt Flt also has a digital video editing suite and is responsible for managing a loan pool of audio-visual training equipment, including Laptop computers, LCD projectors, screens, OHPs, video and digital cameras. Trg Spt Flt staff are responsible for coordinating the Station Arrivals’ Brief, which takes place every second Thursday of the month. This 2 1⁄2 hour briefing is held in the Regiment Cinema at the rear of Building 76 and commences at 1250 hours; all Service and civilian personnel should attend this Brief within 3 months of arrival - no need to book, just turn up. THE LEARNING CENTRE The Learning Centre is a facility that has been developed as part of the Government’s ‘Learning Forces’ initiative. Also part of this initiative is the recent appointment of a Personal Learning Advisor (PLA), whose role is to advise and encourage personnel and their dependants actively to pursue self-improvement through lifelong learning. Within the Learning Centre is

a computer-based Interactive Learning Centre that is open to all personnel, and this facility can be used for studying towards qualifications for Service requirements and as part of individual personal development. In addition, The Learning Centre holds information about the following areas: Adult Education Opportunities - The Centre contains up-to-date details of all local Adult Education opportunities, including Carterton Community College evening classes, West Oxfordshire College, Swindon College, Oxford College of Further Education and many other education providers. In addition, we have information on the Open University and the Forces Distance Learning Scheme. The Resettlement and Education Coordinators (RECs) also process claims for refund of fees. Resettlement - We have a detailed section of resettlement information, including courses, briefings and job opportunities both at local and national level. In addition, Service personnel may make use of the computer in the Station Library to produce CVs and write letters to prospective employers as part of their resettlement activities. A Regional Resettlement Adviser (RRA) (Extension 7273) visits the Centre frequently; appointments to see the RRA can be made through the RECs on Extensions 7110, 7277 or 7288. Station Library - The Station Library is situated in the Learning Centre. Service personnel, their dependants and MOD Civilians may use the library, which has a range of both reference, technical and fiction books. Books to support courses can be ordered for you on long-term loan from the Joint Services Central Library - just ask the Librarian on Extension 7623. The Library opening times are between 0900–1200 hours and 1300–1500 hours, Monday to Friday. Schools - The Learning Centre holds information and contact numbers for all schools in the Carterton area and has a variety of prospectuses about the independent sector. Brief details on the local schools can be found later in this Handbook. For anyone with queries concerning children’s education, the Agency for Service Children’s Education (UK office - Upavon) can be contacted on (01980) 618244, or 94344 Extension 8244. The Learning Centre is open Monday to Thursday, between 0815-1200 hours and 13001645 hours, and Friday between 0815-1200 hours and 1300-1615 hours. PHYSICAL EDUCATION FLIGHT (PED FLT) The PEd Flt is located in the offices on the first floor of the Gymnasium complex and is open Monday to Friday, 0800-1700 hours. On arrival why not pay a visit, and discover a wide range of sports and activities available to you at Brize Norton? All initial telephone enquiries should be directed through the PEd Flt Admin Assistant on extension 7677 (01993 897677). The Gymnasiums and Sports Changing Rooms are situated on the main road between the old Guardroom and the RAF Police HQ. Circuit Training takes place in the New Gymnasium on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 1200-1300 hours. You can also get the ‘Feel Good Factor’ by attending a special fitness session held every Thursday at 1600 aimed at those that think the hurly-burly of lunchtime circuits is all to much for them! Spinning Classes are held in our purpose-built light and sound studio in the Gym on Mon, Wed and Fri at various times. Do contact us for more details. The Station Fitness Suite is open 24-hours a day and needs to be seen to be believed! State of the art equipment, with built in entertainment screens, is complemented by superb surround

sound and two giant LCD TV screens and a computerised ‘Wellness’ system. A control of entry system is in operation and personnel wishing to use the facility must join the RAF Brize Norton Sports Club and undergo a short induction. Personnel are then also able to access the separate Wt Trg facility. Satellite Gymnasiums are located within JATEU (South side Gym), TCW, and RAF Weston on the Green. All these facilities provide CV and resistance equipment. The Squash Courts are situated adjacent to the Officers’ Mess and are open 24 hours. Recently refurbished, the Courts can be booked via a ‘booking board’ situated in the corridor of the Squash Court building. Tennis Courts are situated adjacent to the Officers’ Mess, Sergeants’ Mess and the Guardroom. The Gateway Sports Fields and MT 5-a-side Football Pitch are located near the Main Gate and are used for inter-section football. There is a newly refurbished changing facility adjoining the Gateway Pitches. The Swimming Pool is a non-public facility, which is open to all personnel, including families. The facility includes a 25-metre pool, sauna and tanning cubicle. For details of Pool opening times, swimming lessons and inflatable sessions, please contact the pool staff on extension 7201 (01993 897201). The Health and Well-Being Programme is part of the RAF Brize Norton’s commitment to fitness and general health. There are opportunities to train and participate in many of the major sports, including football, rugby, soccer, cricket, basketball, volleyball and netball. Flights and sections are strongly encouraged to participate in organised sessions during normal working hours with the aim of enhancing fitness for all. Station Sports are a vital element of life at RAF Brize Norton. The Station has a strong sporting tradition and at present we support 50 different sports. The Station Commander’s Cup is keenly contested throughout the year, with competitions for both men and ladies. Adventurous Training receives positive support at all levels. There is a comprehensively equipped expedition store. All JSAT courses and expeditions are administered through the PEd Flt’s AT office on extension 6605 (01993 896605). The Sports Store holds a wide variety of equipment, which is available on a 24-hour loan basis. The Sports Store opening times are flexible depending on staff availability, and you should contact the PEd Flt on extension 7472 or 7677 (01993 897472/7677) to confirm equipment availability and arrange collection.

The Defence Movements School On 1 Apr 04, the Defence Movements School (DMS) formed up around the legacy RAF Movements School. The DMS is one of 7 constituent schools of the new Federated Defence College of Logistics, which has been formed up as one of 6 Defence Colleges; part of the Defence Training Review. The School provides a wide range of Movements training, designed to equip personnel with the skills required to deploy, sustain and recover forces in support of operations, exercises and humanitarian relief anywhere in the world. The history of the School dates back to mid-1944, when the requirement to train personnel in all aspects of air and surface movements became apparent. The first establishment, known as Number 1 Air Traffic School, was formed in November 1944 at RAF St Mawgan, and since that time, the School has been based at a number of different locations before arriving at RAF Brize Norton in 1972. In 1956, the School received its current Unit Crest – a swan imposed over a lighted torch. The swan signifies movement by air, land and sea, while the torch symbolises knowledge and learning. The School’s motto ‘Ars Lenit Iter’ can be translated as ‘Skill Smoothes the Journey’. Movements training is provided to students from all 3 Services and also to various Government agencies and foreign and Commonwealth forces. Each year an average of 850 students pass through the School, completing one of the 26 different types of courses on offer. The courses range from the 21-week Basic Movements Training course for new recruits, to 3-day Mobility appreciation courses for personnel from other trades. Advanced movements skills, explosives handling, and dangerous air cargo procedures are taught to experienced tradesmen, while specialised ADP training courses are available to both Service and MOD civilians. Classroom theory is consolidated through realistic exercises using the extensive practical training facilities available within the school. These exercises range from a passenger check-in simulator to full size aircraft mock-ups of the VC10, and Hercules C130 K and C130 J. A wide range of equipment and vehicles are also maintained, which can be loaded to the various aircraft mockups to reinforce practical skills and techniques. The fresh emphasis upon mobility for the Armed Forces, and the introduction of new transport aircraft such as the C17 and A400M, heralds a new chapter in the School's history. However, whatever challenges the new Millennium brings, the Defence Movements School will continue to provide the RAF and all 3 Services with the ‘Skill to Smooth the Journey’.

Tactical Communications Wing The mission of Tactical Communications Wing (TCW) is to provide expeditionary information services in support of deployed Air Power. It achieves this by deploying an array of communications and information services operated and maintained by highly trained specialists. TCW’s main customers are the Joint Force Air Component HQ and Deployed Operating Bases for RAF ac, but it routinely operates alongside the Royal Signals in providing support to the other Services and works with forces from a range of coalition partners including the US and European Air Group. TCW is equipped with an extensive range of air-deployable strategic and tactical communications and information systems, ranging from long range radio systems, satellite ground stations and advanced IT platforms providing command and control and information to operational staff. TCW can also deploy tactical air-traffic controllers by parachute as part of 16 Air Assault Brigade. TCW has an establishment of nearly 600 personnel, consisting mainly of Communications operators and technicians, supported by personnel from the MT, GSE, RAF Regt, and admin trades. TCW comprises five squadrons under the command of an RAF Wing Commander. A small Ops Sqn provides all of the operational support, planning and tasking; No 1 Sqn provides the specialist engineering, systems development, and ground support equipment; and the three field sqns provide the bulk of the deploying force. On arrival at TCW, all personnel undergo a 9-week training package. This package involves a 3-week Force Protection (FP) and field skills course, a 4-week trade specific course, and a 2-week deployment exercise focused on consolidating the knowledge and providing experience of the field conditions in which TCW deploys its equipment. The FP phase prepares personnel for living, working and fighting in a tactical environment, emphasising camouflage and concealment, weapon training, NBC, personal hygiene and field craft skills, active defence and resource/initiative training. Over the years, TCW has been involved in nearly every operation in which the RAF has made a contribution. TCW remains a unique, dynamic Unit, with a strong warfighting ethos. Although currently part of the RAF Brize Norton community, the Unit is due to move to RAF Scampton in 2006 where it will operate alongside its partner units providing expeditionary CIS and decision support to the RAF in the modern era of Network Enabled Capability.

Joint Air Transport Evaluation Unit The Joint Air Transport Evaluation Unit (JATEU) is the UK’s military authority for the operational trials and development of air transport systems. An independent unit occupying a large part of the southern side of RAF Brize Norton, JATEU is tasked by the Air Warfare Centre, Strike Command to support all our Armed Forces by solving air transport problems and improving airborne capabilities. JATEU is truly joint-Service, having a Lieutenant Colonel as Commanding Officer, with a Squadron Leader as his deputy and representatives of the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, and Civil Service all working together in one unit. The solving of air transport problems requires innovation and the ability to design, evaluate and manufacture prototype systems. JATEU uses the latest technology to turn ideas into reality. Computer-aided design, graphic artists, draughtsmen, technical authors and fully equipped workshops are all available at JATEU. JATEU is functionally divided into a number of sections; each section has a trials, support or training function and is commanded by a Major or equivalent. The trials sections cover all types of air transport, including personnel parachuting, aerial delivery and the carriage of freight by both fixed and rotary wing aircraft. The support sections, which include a sizeable civilian technical staff, provide essential resources for the conduct of trials. A Hercules aircraft from RAF Lyneham is operated by the Hercules Operational Evaluation Unit (HERC OEU) aircrew during aerial delivery and parachuting trials but other aircraft, particularly helicopters, can be called upon when required. Because of its unique resources, JATEU is an authority on air transport matters. As well as its advisory function to all Armed Forces, JATEU prepares and publishes many definitive documents. Aircraft loading data, aircraft trim sheets and underslung load clearances are all published by JATEU. The UK leads the world in the design and manufacture of helicopter load-slinging equipment and, in the absence of a civilian organisation engaged in this work, JATEU is the only British Unit engaged on helicopter load-slinging trials. The advice and expertise available at JATEU has been recognised by many civilian companies and the Unit’s resources and reputation make it an ideal focal point for the evaluation of new guidance, product evaluation and feasibility studies. JATEU enjoys a good working relationship with many companies and helps in the pursuit of overseas defence sales. Whenever anything is to be carried in, dropped from or slung beneath a military aircraft, JATEU is the authority.

No 501 Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) Formed in June 1929, as the City of Bristol Squadron, changing in 1936 to the County of Gloucester Squadron, the members of 501 Squadron earned 7 battle honours during WWII before the Squadron was disbanded in 1957. In 1982, 2624 (County of Gloucester) Squadron RAuxAF Regiment was formed at RAF Brize Norton to provide ground defence for the Station. Subsequently, the Squadron was reassigned to operate in support of the Harrier Force in Germany until 1992, when it reverted to its original role. The Squadron assumed a wider role as a multi-trade Role Support Squadron on 1 April 1998, providing support to the AT and AAR Force, including a flight of RAuxAF Hercules Reservist Aircrew, flying C-130 aircraft from RAF Lyneham. In December 1999, the Squadron was re-roled yet again to be an Operations Support Squadron. On 1 May 2001, the Squadron re-numbered as No 501 (County of Gloucester) Squadron, the current role of which is to provide the Royal Air Force with trade utility in peacetime and Force Protection skills in times of conflict and war. His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, who holds the rank of Air Marshal, was appointed Honorary Air Commodore of 501 Squadron in June 2001. The majority of the Squadron personnel are recruited from Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Hampshire. Members are required to attend Wednesday training evenings and one training weekend every month. In addition, they must complete an annual period of 15-day continuation training. In recent years, this continuation training has taken place in a variety of locations including Scotland, Germany, the USA and the Falkland Islands. The Squadron offers civilians, as Volunteer members of the UK’s Reserve Forces, an opportunity to serve with the military and to take part in operations and exercises overseas. In addition, Squadron members are able to benefit from adventurous training and other courses offered by the Royal Air Force. For those that have the qualities and commitment, there is a career structure with opportunities for promotion and for commissioning. Service with No 501 Squadron is challenging, varied, rewarding and exciting. For further details, contact the Recruiting Office on (01993) 897718, Freephone 0800 783 5974 or visit www.rafreserves.com.

Integrated Tasking and Operations Centre The Integrated Tasking and Operations Centre (ITOC) is an independent wing of Headquarters 2 Group. It is the most recent unit to form at RAF Brize Norton, having become operational on 28 July 2003. The ITOC plans and implements the detailed programme of worldwide AT and AR missions in support of all 3 Services. To do this, it tasks and controls No 2 Group’s TriStars, VC10s and C-17s at Brize Norton, as well as the Hercules force at RAF Lyneham. The concept of the ITOC started with the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) project, which envisaged an operations centre based at Brize Norton using current airline working practices and modern IT to task, control and despatch the FSTA. Pending the arrival of the FSTA towards the end of the decade, it was decided in the meantime to expand the idea of an ITOC to task and control all 2 Group aircraft at Brize Norton and Lyneham. Basing the ITOC at Brize Norton freed up much needed space at RAF High Wycombe. It also presented numerous operational advantages through collocation with the flying and support units on the Station that will become the RAF’s centralised AT/AR location once Lyneham closes. The ITOC consists of 2 squadrons, Tasking Squadron and Operations Squadron. Tasking Squadron is responsible for shaping and planning the monthly AT/AR programme. The programme is drafted in outline form by the Defence Transport and Movements Agency based at Andover, which co-ordinates the AT and AR requirements of all 3 Services 2 months ahead according to an approved list of priorities. This skeleton plan is then handed to the ITOC Tasking Squadron, which allocates tasks to different aircraft types, carries out detailed load planning for each task, draws up task itineraries, applies for diplomatic clearances and issues computer flight plans for each mission. In essence, Tasking Squadron is responsible for all planning aspects of each strategic and tactical AT/AR task until 48 hours before departure. At the 48-hour-to-go point, responsibility for the task is handed over to Operations Squadron. Operations Squadron carries out short-term planning to take account of task changes or delays, as well as last minute additions to the programme. It also confirms to the Stations and down route destinations the passenger and freight loads, books military personnel on RAF or civilian flights in support of 2 Group operations, and finally flight follows and controls all current tasks worldwide until they return to their home base. In 2005, the ITOC will be the launch customer of a powerful new IT suite being produced by Boeing that will enable the ITOC to task and control the AT/AR force in accordance with the most modern and dynamic methods. The unprecedented capabilities of this new system will require a radical change of operational mindset from all involved in the tasking programme, from the ITOC to the Stations and down to the flying squadrons. However, it will ensure best use of the RAF’s AT/AR force as a world leader in the global projection of air power.

No 4624 Movements Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) No 4624 Squadron was formed at RAF Brize Norton in 1982 to provide a pool of trained Movements personnel to reinforce the regular Movements organization and to undertake air movement’s duties in support of RAF and allied operations worldwide. In 1991, the Squadron was mobilised for the Gulf War, when Squadron personnel were deployed to support established Movements staff in theatre and at bases in the UK and Germany. In 1999, the Squadron was mobilised again to support operations in the Balkans; a third of the Operational Flights served for 6 months with the Regular Movements Squadrons at RAF Brize Norton and RAF Lyneham, and in Croatia and Kosovo. In 2002, 65 members of the Squadron were compulsorily called out for full-time service, providing reinforcement to the regular Movements Trade in support of the UK forces’ contribution to war against terrorism in Afghanistan. No sooner had personnel recovered from mobilisation for Afghanistan, a further 155 personnel were mobilised again in Feb 03, serving at 18 locations in UK and 23 different countries, as detachments or mobile teams.

The Squadron is the largest in the RAuxAF, with an establishment of 300 personnel. Training is conducted at RAF Brize Norton, RAF Lyneham and other Movements units worldwide. In peacetime, the Squadron routinely undertakes No 2 Group Movements tasks at home and overseas to enable personnel to gain experience and work directly integrated with their Regular colleagues. New recruits are constantly required, and ex-Servicemen, especially those with Movements training and experience, are particularly welcome. Selection is rigorous, with the emphasis placed on enthusiasm and commitment. Training is given in all aspects of General Service Training. In addition, Trade Training is provided which is concerned with the movement by air and documentation of passengers, cargo and wheeled equipment of all three Services in support of the operational and peacetime tasks of UK and allied Armed Forces. This training includes preparing, positioning and securing loads in aircraft, cargo preparation, passenger handling and specialist vehicle driving. The attendance requirement is for one weekend and one weekday evening a month. There is also a requirement for personnel to serve for a 15-day continuous training period each year. There are opportunities for promotion and commissioning within the Squadron, and for additional activities such as adventurous training and sports. The training requires considerable commitment. However, for those who have the time to give and are willing to learn, service with No 4624 Squadron can be very rewarding. For further information, contact the Recruiting Officer on (01993) 897712. No 4624 Squadron … Always … ‘Ready To Move’!

Medical Arrangements The David Stone Medical Centre (DSMC) at RAF Brize Norton was officially opened in March 1999 and is situated adjacent to Gate 2. The DSMC provides Primary and continuing care to a practice population of approximately 3600 Service personnel and 1000 entitled civilians. Furthermore, DSMC staff provide emergency medical cover for the airfield and immediate and emergency care cover for on-site contractors. Normal working hours are 0800 to 1700 hrs Mon-Fri. All consultations for Service personnel and dependants are by appointment only and appointments can be arranged by visiting the DSMC or by contacting Extension 7246 or direct line 897246. There is a practice leaflet available from DSMC Reception which contains a comprehensive list of all medical services available, clinics and appointment times. Outside normal working hours, i.e. 1700-0800hrs Mon-Fri, at weekends and Bank Holidays, an emergency service is provided. There is always a medic on call in the DSMC however, this is predominantly to provide airfield cover. If you need urgent medical care between 17001830hrs you can call at the DSMC or contact Reception Ext 7246 or direct line 897246. Between 1830–0800hrs Mon-Fri, during weekends and Bank Holidays, urgent medical care is provided by the South East / South West Oxfordshire Primary Care Trust and advice and guidance can be sought by contacting 0845 345 8995. In extreme emergency you should call 2222 from on base, or 999 if off base. A 24 hr confidential helpline is available for general health enquiries via NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

Dental Arrangements The new Dental Centre was opened in May 2005 and is situated next to David Stone Medical Centre adjacent to Gate 2. Dental emergencies in normal hours are seen daily by appointment through Extension 7245. Appointments for annual inspections and routine treatment can also be made through the same extension. Emergency dental treatment for entitled military personnel after normal hours, at weekends and over grants can be arranged through Ext 7245. A comprehensive range of treatment is available with support services provided by Specialist Consultants at RAF Halton and monthly visits from the Consultant in Oral and Maxillo-facial Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. For dependants of Service personnel who have newly arrived in the area, the Regional Dental Helpline is (01865) 226532. A leaflet giving further information on local dental services is available from reception staff at the Dental Centre.

Chaplaincy ST CHRISTOPHER’S CHURCH & CHAPLAINCY CENTRE The Chaplaincy provides for the spiritual and pastoral needs of the personnel at RAF Brize Norton. The Chaplaincy Centre, whilst providing for the three main Christian denominations is open to personnel of all faiths and is situated opposite the Station gymnasium. The Chaplains are available through the chaplaincy offices for confidential counselling and denominational issues. Worship at RAF Brize Norton is on both a denominational and ecumenical level. The times of denominational worship are available from the Chaplaincy Centre and the Chaplaincy Centre website, whilst ecumenical worship is advertised seasonally. Here is a list of the sorts of things people come to talk with us about…you may be surprised! • • • • • • •

Baptism • Bullying & harassment • Childcare issues Community activities • Confession • Confirmation Debt & money worries • Funerals & bereavement Loneliness & isolation • Marriage plans Equal Opportunities • Practical issues about divorce Questions about faith • Relationship breakdown Stress • Support when on detachment • Support to headless families

And you thought we only worked on Sundays!!!! The Chaplains are available for confidential counselling and can be contacted through the Church Offices on Extension 7531 (C of E), Extension 7529 (RC) or Extension 7530 (CSFC). In addition, Carterton is served by its own churches as follows: ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST C of E CHURCH (CARTERTON) Vicar: Rev Roger Billings (01993) 846996 St John’s is situated on Burford Road, very close to the crossroads at Carterton town centre. ST JOSEPH’S RC CHURCH (CARTERTON) Parish Priest: Fr Emmanuel Gili-Hammett (01993) 842463 St Joseph’s, situated in Arkell Avenue, is the local Roman Catholic Parish Church in Carterton. The local RC Primary School is associated with St Joseph’s and is situated in Lawton Avenue. The Parish Priest lives in the Presbytery adjoining the Church. METHODIST CHURCH (CARTERTON) Minister: Rev Peter Goodhall (01993) 845322 The Methodist Church is also situated on Burford Road, close to the crossroads at Carterton town centre, and car parking is to the rear of the Church off Arkell Avenue.

Station Amenities Community and Support Facilities COMMUNITY SUPPORT CENTRE: Located in Building 539, adjacent to the Arena Club. The Community Support Centre was officially opened in July 2004 and houses a range of specialist services available to Station personnel. SERVING PERSONNEL HIVE INFORMATION CENTRE: Mon - Fri 0900–1500 hrs The Serving Personnel HIVE exists to support the Station community with a wide range of impartial information and referral services. The Information Officer can provide Internet access, fact sheets and leaflets on a wide range of subjects such as housing, benefits, employment, travel and local information. If the SP HIVE doesn’t hold the information you seek, they’ll either find it for you or refer you to someone who can help. Drop in or call the Information Officer on Ext 5349. CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU OUTREACH SERVICE: Available at the Community Support Centre on Tuesdays 1000–1300 hrs A confidential, impartial, free and independent service is available during opening hours to assist with a wide range of queries or problems. The CAB can also assist with access to a solicitor or other specialists. Call in or ring for an appointment on 01993 705691 (Witney CAB Office) or Ext 5350 (Tuesday). COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WORKER: The Community Development Worker (CDW) offers advice and support to the Station Community Support Team and individual personnel on the development of Station community facilities. In addition, the CDW networks on RAF Brize Norton’s behalf to ensure that personnel and families have access to all the support and services available to them within the local area. This involves strengthening communication and partnerships with local authorities, agencies and groups. Contact on Ext 7068 or via intranet on BZN-Community-Dev Worker. SSAFA SOCIAL WORK SERVICE: Mon, Wed, Fri 0930–1430 hrs – Community Support Centre SSAFA is a civilian welfare organisation providing advice, support and practical help to service personnel and their families on all manner of issues. The Personal and Family Social Worker can meet with you at the Centre to offer confidential and free support on issues such as relationship difficulties, preferential treatment, mental health, child protection and child/family issues. If you have an issue you wish to discuss, drop in or make an appointment by telephoning Ext 5350 or Ext 7251. The Families Centre – Situated at 10-18 Ely Close, opposite the NAAFI/Spar Shop Car Park, and contains the HIVE, Thrift Shop and SSAFA Social Work Office. The HIVE – (Tel: 01993 841497) Information and advice is situated in the Families Centre at Ely Close, conveniently close to the NAAFI/Spar Shop. The HIVE provides a friendly and professional service for everyone, and holds information on education, housing, health care, local information and employment. HIVE can also offer a referral service on who to speak to about a problem. There is an Internet facility, which is free for personnel sending E-mail or electronic blueys to relatives or friends, deployed on operations and for contacting other MOD establishments, schools etc. Personnel may also make use of the system for non-welfare activities but will be charged a nominal rate to cover costs. The HIVE is open Monday to Friday 0900-1200 hours.

Bumbles Coffee Shop – You can be assured of a warm welcome at Bumbles Coffee Shop. Conveniently situated opposite the HIVE, you can drop in for a coffee and a chat. The Coffee shop offers a wide range of hot and cold snacks and is open Monday and Wednesday, 0900–12.30, Tuesday and Thursdays, 0900–1300 and Friday 0900–1200. (Hot food orders need to be made half-hour before closing.) Thrift Shop – The Station Thrift Shop is located in three flats above the HIVE. Service personnel, family members and MOD civilians may submit items for sale, although civilians may purchase items on selling days. Up to 20 items may be submitted per week to the Thrift Shop, which has the following opening hours: Each week: Every month:

Tuesday 0930-1200 hours – Taking in goods Thursday 0930-1200 hours – Selling and paying out First Wednesday 1800-1930 hours – Selling only Last Wednesday 1800-1900 hours – Taking in only (max 10 items)

SSAFA Forces Help Personal and Family Support Worker and Social Work Service – The SSAFA Personal and Family Support Worker is available at 17 Ely Close (Tel: 846700) or Ext 7251to offer confidential support on issues such as relationship difficulties, mental health, child / family issues and housing, as well as support and practical help to all Service personnel and their families. RAF Brize Norton Childcare Partnership – currently comprises the Pre-school Playgroup, the Little Tinkers Nursery School and the Busy Bees Crèche. The station is currently planning a new-build 100-place childcare facility to replace the existing facilities, to be situated just outside the Station’s main gate, which is due to open late 2005early 2006. Pre-School Playgroup – A Pre-school Playgroup is located opposite the NAAFI/Spar shop. The Playgroup provides sessional care, between 0915-1145 hours Monday to Friday, for children aged 3 to 5. Sessional care for children aged 2 to 3 is provided between 1230-1430 hours Monday to Thursday. The Playgroup accepts nursery vouchers and the Supervisor can be contacted during the week on Extension 7215. Little Tinkers Nursery School – Little Tinkers Nursery School, located at 191 Hastings Drive, provides all-day care for children aged 2 months to 5 years, Monday to Friday, between 0745-1715 hours. For further information, contact the Manager on 01993 846396. Busy Bees – Busy Bees is an OFSTED registered daycare centre and crèche that is situated within the Families Centre in Ely Close (near the Spar). The Centre is open to children between the ages of 6 weeks and 5 years whose parents or guardians are Service or MoD employees working at RAF Brize Norton. The Centre offers a warm and friendly environment with stimulating play and plenty of activities to meet children’s individual needs. Regular activities include singing, story time, music, soft play, painting, cooking and anything else that can make a mess. The children are encouraged to learn through play and the interaction with other children helps them develop their confidence and self-esteem as well as learning valuable social skills. The Centre has a main playroom, baby room and sleep room, all of which are equipped with a large range of toys and other facilities. An enclosed garden at the rear of the building is used as much as possible during the better weather. The Centre is open from 0745 in the morning through to 1730 in the afternoon. For more information or to book a free introductory session please call in or telephone 01993 844011.

Welcome Flats – Within the Service Families Accommodation patch, RAF Brize Norton offers comfortable and affordable welfare accommodation primarily for single Service parents who have contact rights for their children. The flats are also available to all other single and married Service personnel to rent out for use by themselves, their close relatives or friends. The cost (at the time of publication) is between £5 - £15 per night, depending on status, and bookings can be made through the Personnel Management Squadron, tel: 01993 896205/897864, or RAFTN 95462 Extensions 6205 and 7864. The Station Families’ Club – The Station Families’ Club is located off base, adjacent to the Spar Shop in Stanmore Cescent. The Club offers a fully licensed bar with reasonable prices. Regular entertainment is provided, and details of events are advertised by posters and flyers distributed throughout the Families Quarters. Please contact the OIC Families Club on extension 7860 the Bookings Coordinator on extension 70015 6 with any enquiries regarding the use of the Families Club. The Spotlight Club - This is the Junior Ranks’ Club on the Station, and is run in line with the social club concept, with a committee of junior non-commissioned officers and airmen. The Club is open to all junior non-commissioned ranks and their families, and has a varied entertainment’s programme, including regular dances. Every evening, a Club Committee member is on duty and available to answer questions about Club activities.

Shopping Facilities NAAFI/Spar Shop – The NAAFI/Spar Shop is situated in Stanmore Crescent, off Upavon Way; the Shop stocks a wide range of goods and includes a butchery. There is a large car park and a delivery service is available. Postal and Telephone Services – A Sub-Post Office is located within the NAAFI/Spar Shop and telephone kiosks are nearby. Full postal services are available here and at Carterton town Post Office. There is a Post Office letterbox just outside No 1 Gate, and the Terminal Building; these boxes are emptied at 1530 hours daily, Monday to Friday. Private mail arriving at the Unit is delivered daily to sections by the Station messengers. The Station Post Room is open for collection of parcels, registered letters etc, as follows: Monday to Thursday: Friday:

between 0900-1200 hours and 1300–1700 hours. between 0900-1630 hours.

Shopping Facilities – Further shopping facilities are available in Carterton and include banks, a Post Office etc. Other towns within easy reach of the Station include Witney – 6 miles, Oxford – 17 miles and Swindon – 18 miles. There is a small open-air market in Witney on Thursdays and Saturdays. An open-air market is held in Carterton on Thursdays.

Station Committees The Station has three main committees on which airmen serve: the Services Institute Fund (SIF), Spotlight Club and Junior Ranks’ Mess. The composition of these committees is as follows: SIF COMMITTEE President: OC Station Services Squadron. Secretary and Treasurer: Station Adjutant. Members: Representatives from all units around the Station.

SPOTLIGHT CLUB COMMITTEE Chairman: WOs detailed by the Station Commander. Secretary and Treasurer: Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. Corporals and Airmen: Elected by Club Members. JUNIOR RANKS’ MESS COMMITTEE President: OC Supply Wg. In Attendance: Brize Catering Manager. Members: Representatives from all units around the Station. Any personnel with suggestions or complaints should voice these through the appropriate members of the Committees. Constructive views and ideas are always welcomed.

Station Sports Facilities RAF Brize Norton has facilities and equipment for all RAF-recognised sports. Each individual sport on Station has an Officer in Charge and, where appropriate, a committee. The Physical Education Flight staff are always willing to offer guidance on all aspects of sport and recreation. Current sporting activities available on Station include the following: Angling Archery Athletics Badminton Basketball Boxing Canoeing Cricket Cross Country Cycling Dry-slope Skiing Exped training Equitation Fencing Gliding

Golf Hockey Judo Karting Mountaineering Motor Sports Nijmegen Nordic skiing Orienteering Rowing Rugby (League/Union) Sailing (Dingy/Offshore) Shooting (Small/Full Bore) Skiing Soccer

Squash Subaqua Swimming Table Tennis Tenpin Bowling Tennis Triathlon Tug-of-War Volleyball Water Polo Water Skiing Weight Training Windsurfing Winter Sports

There are two major sports fields, providing the following: 2 cricket squares (also 3 artificial wickets), 6 soccer pitches, 2 rugby pitches and 8 tennis courts. Indoor facilities exist for basketball, badminton, netball, volleyball and squash; a fully equipped weight-training bay is also available to personnel, incorporating the latest fitness-training equipment. A modern firstclass swimming pool is located next to the Spotlight Club.

Station Clubs and Activities Arena Club – Situated near to the Gymnasium, the Arena Club is an all-ranks social club which holds regular discos and provides a friendly atmosphere for all ranks to socialize, particularly after sporting events. Astra Bowl – The Astra Bowl is a 12-lane ten-pin bowling centre located near the Officers’ Mess, and is open at least ten hours per day, seven days a week. Open to all personnel and the public, it offers reduced price ten-pin bowling to members of the RAF Brize Norton Sports Club. Both an alcoholic bar and a snack bar offering light meals and refreshments are available during the majority of the opening times. In addition to lunchtime leagues for Station personnel, there are thriving evening leagues running every weekday evening and new blood is always welcomed, no matter what the standard. In addition, the Bowl has special offers for children’s bowling on Saturday and during school holidays. The facility may be booked for private parties for all ages. Telephone bookings can be made via the Astra Bowl Manager on Extension 7289 or (01993) 897289 from off-Station. Camera Club – The Camera Club operates on an ‘as required’ basis, generally meeting one evening a week. The club has an excellent darkroom and studio. Materials can be purchased at discount prices available at local shops. Membership of the Club is available for a modest annual fee. Flying Club – The Station has a thriving flying club, which owns and operates two Piper Cherokees and one Piper Warrior. A supplementary fleet of four other aircraft is also available for hire by club members. Membership and flying charges are kept as low as possible and the club can offer training for all PPL requirements as well as instrument, height, multi-engine, aerobatics and flying instructor courses for the more advanced. Contact the Club Secretary for further details. Hobbies Club – The Hobbies Club is located in Building S326 behind the old Medical Centre. The Club has excellent facilities for all forms of woodwork and carpentry and is open to all members of the Station. The Club may be used by personnel for other hobbies on application to the Officer IC. There is a modest annual membership fee. Model Aircraft Club – The Model Aircraft Club is located in Building 453 behind the Medical Centre. Theatre Club – The Station has a very active Theatre Club, which meets weekly at its Club House, Building T50A, in Splinter village. New members are always welcome. Scouts and Guides – There is a strong and active BP movement at RAF Brize Norton. The 2nd Brize Norton (RAF) Air Scout Group have their Scout HQ behind the Sergeants’ Mess. The group meeting times are show below: Air Scout Troop – Monday, 1900-2100 hours (Age 10-16) Chipmunk Cub Scout Pack – Tuesday, 1830-2000 hours (Age 8-10) Hawk Cub Scout Pack – Wednesday, 1900-2030 hours (Age 8-10) Lightening Beaver Scout Colony – Thursday, 1800-1915 hours (Age 6-8) Further details are available from the leaders at the Scout HQ.

Off the Station Carterton – has a population of approximately 19,000 and is the ‘home town’ of RAF Brize Norton. It houses most of the personnel and families occupying Families Quarters at RAF Brize Norton. The town has over 60 shops and is well served by banks, estate agents, solicitors, veterinary surgeons, opticians, doctors, dentists and superstores. There are also several hairdressers and a variety of take-aways. Bus services to Witney, Oxford and London are excellent and Carterton has a market every Thursday, on land adjacent to the Beehive Public House. Burford – is a picturesque Cotswold town situated 4 miles to the north of the Station. With its steep main street sloping down to the River Windrush and its lines of mellow stone houses, Burford is a bustling tourist attraction. The town’s prosperity over the centuries has been built on wool, quarrying and coaching. As well as a medieval bridge, a church that dates back to the 15th century and several other distinctive historical buildings, the town boasts many splendid pubs and a wide range of antiques shops. To the south of Burford are the Cotswold Wildlife Park and the Burford Garden Centre. Witney – is situated 6 miles to the north east of the Station. An attractive town, famous for the Witney Blanket and the dominating church spire, it is a popular shopping destination. It has several supermarkets, a Boots store, many high street shops and branches of all the major banks, together with a variety of pubs and restaurants. There is an Information Centre in the town situated near the Town Hall piazza. Oxford – is situated about 17 miles east of the Station. It is a historic University City with a wide variety of shops, amenities, cinemas and theatres. The Ashmolean Museum and Botanical Gardens are but two of its outstanding attractions. The City has an Information Centre in St Aldates. Car parking in Oxford is problematic and expensive, but there is a full Park and Ride system in operation. Oxford railway station has trains to Birmingham and London. Swindon – is about 18 miles south west of the Station and has numerous multi-storey car parks. Swindon offers extensive safe and pedestrianized shopping facilities, with many areas under cover, and offers shopping 7 days a week. The Town Centre is surrounded by a variety of leisure and sports facilities, as well as other shopping experiences such as Old Town and The Great Western Designer Outlet Village. Swindon has a main line railway station with trains travelling to London, Bristol, South Wales and the South-west of England.

Useful General Information Station Telephone Number – is Carterton (01993) 842551. Postal Addresses: The correct postal address for business mail is: Number, Rank, Name and initials Flight or Section (not Barrack Block) Royal Air Force Brize Norton Oxford OX18 3LX Mail for Families Quarters is delivered by the Post Office. The correct address for Families Quarters is: House Number and Street Carterton Oxford Postcode

Local Government: Carterton Town Council (01993) 842156 West Oxfordshire District Council (01993) 770255 Thames Valley Police – (01865) 846000

Major Hospitals: John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford (01865) 741166 Churchill Hospital, Oxford (01865) 741841 Radcliffe Infirmary and Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford (01865) 311188 Princess Margaret Hospital, Swindon (01793) 536231

Community Hospitals: These are local hospitals where patients are cared for by their own GP. Burford Community Hospital (01993) 822129 Witney Community Hospital (01993) 771211

Local Schools There are 7 schools that serve the Carterton area. The Secondary and five Primary Schools in Carterton are a part of a strong partnership of schools which prides itself on excellent liaison. Carterton Community College (Tel: 01993 841611) is a rapidly expanding school that serves the whole town. It has 650 pupils aged between 11 and 16 years old. In the period from 1997-2002, the College has achieved GCSE results above the County and National averages, with over 50% of pupils achieving A-C grades. Caterton Primary School and Nursery Unit (Tel: 01993 842502) is situated close to the centre of Carterton. The school serves the North Eastern sector of Carterton, and has over 300 pupils on the roll and 2 classes in each year group. The children can start in the Nursery when they are 3 or 4 years old with a morning or an afternoon place. The children can enter the Primary School in the term that they reach 5 years old. Over 60% of the children attending the School come from RAF families. The Gateway County Primary School (Tel: 01993 842189) is located on the southern edge of Carterton; it was opened in 1965 and considerably re-modelled in 1996. The School stands on an extensive site with large playing fields and playgrounds. Currently there are 325 pupils on the roll, with approximately 80% of the children from RAF families. The school takes children from the South Eastern sector of Carterton, and has 11 classes ranging from ‘Rising 5s’ to year 6. Edith Moorhouse County Primary School (Tel: 01993 842372) was opened in 1969 to cater for children residing in the Western sector of Carterton. There are 340 children on the roll, with approximately one-third of the children from RAF families. The school has 12 classes, with the youngest children starting before their 4th birthday and leaving at the end of year 6. Within the grounds there are a variety of playgrounds, a large playing field, maze and a wild area. St John The Evangelist CE School (Tel: 01993 843124). This new school was opened in Spring 2003, and is a well designed ten class primary school for children aged 5 to 11 years, with a Foundation Stage Unit, including a nursery class for children aged 3 to 4 years. It is built to serve the new community of Shilton Park and to provide a Church of England School for the town of Carterton. The school is built to a high specification and is well resourced with new equipment and technology appropriate for the start of the 21st century. Standards of teaching are high and we work hard to achieve the school’s mission statement: ‘Developing learning and caring within a Christian Community’ St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Primary School (Tel: 01993 841240) is a voluntary aided Catholic primary school. It serves Carterton and the surrounding towns and outlying villages and takes children of the Roman Catholic faith from the whole community. With nearly 200 pupils, St Joseph’s provides both spiritual and educational guidance to its pupils. Children enter the school in the term that they turn 5 years old and leave at the end of Year 6. Year groups after Reception Year are maintained, wherever possible, and the classes are one form, mixed entry. Almost half of the children are from RAF families. St Kenelm’s CofE Primary School (Tel: 01993 775394) is a village school located just over 2 miles from the Station at Wenrise Drive, Minster Lovell. The school offers small year groups in a spacious environment. The school strives to provide a caring and disciplined environment where children are encouraged to reach high standards. Children are offered the opportunity to learn to swim, play musical instruments and take part in a residential activity week, and After School Clubs include netball, hockey and football.