the griff griff may 2012 web.pdf · to popular demand are hosting the event again in 2012. the 2012...

The Magazine of the Royal Air Force Police Association

The Griff

Views expressed in The Griff are those of the Editor and individual contributors and do not necessarily represent RAFPA policy.

No part of this publication may be reproduced by any person, at any time, by any method, without the express permission of the Editor or originator in writing.

Regular FeaturesLetters to the Editor Last PostBygone Days & YearsWelcome to New Members Walk Down Memory Lane

This Issue!

p.6p.18p.20p.20p.22

Special ArticlesPass out Parade!NMA ‘Snowdrop’ ParadeAGM WeekendNostalgic Reminiscences Final pt.Old and Bold!

p.4p.10p.15p.16p.19

MMaayy 22001122

R

Snowdrop Parade, NMA

2012

The Griff

RAF Police today - some facts.FA

CTS

To deliver focused Police, counter-intelligence and protective security services to commanders in support of Defence outputs.

To prevent and detect crimeTo protect personnel and equipmentTo maintain discipline

*Aid not impede * Impartiality*Integrity * Professional Standards*Confidentiality * Responsibility

Criminal & Security Community Policing Investigations

Security, counter terrorism Incident response& Anti-crime patrolling

Counter intelligence Operations Security

Police &Security Intelligence Security Risk Management

Protective Security Covert Operations &

(Personnel, Physical Info) Source Handling

Security & crime reduction Counter improvised Education Explosive Device Support

Computer Forensics Biometric Support

Mission Statement.

Responsibilities.

Code of Conduct

What does the RAF Police do?

More information and facts in next issue. Ed.

2012

The Griff

Hon. President Hon. Vice President Air Cdre Nick Bray, CBE, MA RAF ACOS FP AO RAF Police

Life Vice Presidents: Steve Cattell, E Mail: [email protected] Rusling, E Mail: [email protected] Wardell, E Mail: [email protected] Walton, E.Mail: [email protected]

Elected Officers

Treasurer: Mike Thornton (TBC)20, Thomas Mead, Pewsham,Chippenham, Wilts., SN15 3YSTel. 01249 464787E mail; [email protected]

RAFPA Archivist: John Curtis Editor The Griff: Mitch O'Neill28 Tennyson Avenue, Gedling, 11, Florentine Way, Waterlooville,Nottingham, NG4 3HJ Hampshire, PO7 8JYTel.No. 01159 612662 Tel. No. 02392 796703 E Mail: [email protected] E Mail: [email protected]

RAFPA E-groups Moderator: Steve Cattell RAFPA Web Master: Steve Cattell

Association Trustees:Steve Cattell: [email protected] Davies: [email protected] P Shaw: [email protected] Lamb: [email protected]

Who’s Who in theRAF Police Association - 2012

Membership Secretary: Dave Wardell40, South Western CrescentPoole, Dorset BH14 8RRTel/Fax: 01202 747176 E Mail: [email protected]

Gp Capt Mark Sexton CBE MA PM (RAF).

Secretary: Eric Harrison,Brambles,5, Orchard RoadHorsham, W.Sx, RH13 5NFTel.; 01403 256 013E mail; [email protected]

RAFPA Independent Accountants:Mabe Allen - Derby

RAFPA Web-site address:www.rafpa.com

Voluntary Posts

Chairman: Ted Hellewell6 Iona Close, HorsebridgeEast Sussex, BN27 3GATel: 01323 449 833E Mail: [email protected]

Vice Chairman: Bernard LambThornmead, The Hollies,Rainworth, Nottingham NG21 0FZTel/Fax: 01623 798856E Mail: [email protected]

2012

The Griff

Pass Out Parade, March 2012

In the church Air Cdre Nick Bray, CBE, AO RAF Police gave a spirited address to welcome the newest members of the RAFPfamily and then awarded the recruits theirWarrant Cards and new postings.

On Friday 23rd March 2012 at DCPGSouthwick Park the last graduation ceremonythis year took place. The now familiar formatwas abandoned and a different scenariowas in place. Prior to meeting in the churchthree different areas, each showing anddemonstrating techniques and skills, usedby the RAF Police were available for parents,friends and Association members to watch.

Air Cdre Nick Bray then took the salute, outside of the church of a march past.Unfortunately there were restrictions in place for the photographers so selection of photoswere limited.

The winner of the PM’s Baton was CplCarroll, the coveted RAFPA Cup was wonby Cpl Coughlin and the PE Certificate byCpl. Maher.

2012

The Griff

Southview Park Hotel on 2nd/3rd November 2012The East Midland Branch have hosted the annual reunion for the past two years and dueto popular demand are hosting the event again in 2012.

The 2012 Reunion will again be the Southview Park Hotel, Skegness. for the weekend Fri2nd- Saturday 3rd November 2012 The hotel is described as Lincolnshire’s Premier hotel,and all who attended the 2010 and 2011 Reunion will confirm that view. This is a relatively new purpose built hotel where even the standard rooms are rated 4 stars.(www.southviewparkhotel.co.uk).

All 62 rooms in the hotel have been reserved for the Royal Air Force Police Association andtheir guests. The cost is based on a room for two people for two nights. It includes 2 nightsDinner/Bed/Breakfast. A carvery evening meal on Friday and a Formal silver service dinner on Saturday.

The hotel management are so delighted with our conduct over the past two years and ourcontinued patronage that the price for 2012 will not increase. The price will be £200 per room. Based on two people sharing.Single occupancy will be £160. A deposit of £30 per room is required at time of booking

Bookings are to be made direct with the hotel (quote Royal Air Force Police AssociationWeek-end) Tel: 01754 896060. Do not try to book on line, as you will find all rooms booked.Any questions to the hotel direct or the East Midland Branch Entertainment members JohnCurtis on 01159 612662 or John Limb on 01623 649562.

This will be celebrated on Saturday 30 June 2012, the national event being held in Plymouth.Any member wishing to march, spectate or carry a standard. please contact John Walton Tel: 01395 446234

Armed Forces Day 2012

Is open to all those who served in the ranks between 1939 – 1963. This includesWAAF/WRAF and Regular personnel. We have groups around the country and variousevents held both locally and nationally throughout the year. For more information, pleasecontact the Membership Secretary, Mr. John Kent, Dunelm, Denford Road, Longsdon,Stoke on Trent, Staffs ST9 9QG.

E- mail him at: [email protected] or visit our website at: www.nsrafa.org

The National Service (RAF) Association

Cenotaph Parade 2012On Remembrance Sunday this year (11 November) the RAF Police Association will marchin the Cenotaph Parade for the tenth successive year. If you wish to take part (even in awheelchair), please contact John Walton on 01395 446234, email: [email protected]

2012

The Griff

LLeetttteerrss ttoo tthheeEditor

David and Catherine Pearce celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary a fewmonths ago (space not available in Jan. issue).A member of the Norfolk Branch, David served at Boscombe Down, Swanton Morley andGatow. A keen sportsman the highlight of his athletic endeavours was signing amateurforms for Norwich FC and a spell with Worcester Colts. His long suffering wife Catherinesupported him through thick and thin, although washing his cricket whites was not herfavourite ‘chore’.

A.Allcroft, CPL; J.B.Barras; P.J. Corian (?); B.Gient (?); Bryant Gildin; E.C.Gillhan; Watty Gowans; A.D.Heres;H.Kirtley; Andrew Logan; G.Marpin; Alexander Matson; Robert A McAngus; Donald McCulloch; R.McGlasson;G.McLean SGT; Alexander Morrison; William Nixon; A.Paterson; G.Pead(?); A.Powell CPL (?); J.Waddell; M.Ward;D.H.Williams; M.Williams; A.Wright; & D.Wright. (I'm 5th from left in the 3rd row from front).

The attached photograph is of No.10 Flight "D" Squadron, 1 R.T. Wing, R.A.F.Padgate.January 1955. The original got rather 'old' with cracks, but it was restored and enhancedreally a good job from what it was. The lads (Billet No.3), signed the back so I haveenclosed their names.

Submitted by: Gil Wallace

Chuck Agar thinks he recognises the trophy on the photograph sent in by JohnCole. The Agar-Wilson Trophy named inhonour of his brother-in-law Sqd Ldr Agar-Wilson, RAFP who died while servingat Rheindahlen 1965. He wonders whathappened to the trophy in particular and isthere reliable information on the status ofWildenwrath, Bruggen and Rheindahlen.Can any of you out here help Chuck? Ed

Down Memory Lane evoked a few nostalgicmoments for Fred Prestwood who remembers Charles Penny as his instructorat RAF Pershore. He thinks that the man3rd from left in the front row is Phil Marlowthen he served with him at Moreton inMarsh. He also noted with sadness thepassing of Derek Chappel. Derek was hisSergeant on Christmas Island and later atRAF Cottesmore. Through ‘The Griff’ heoffers his deepest condolences to hisdaughter and the rest of the family.

2012

The Griff

John Badger managed to resist starting hisletter, At …on….at, I was etc., but the latestissue of The Griff bought the name Henniker-Heaton right to the forefront of his mind.. Theyear, 1955, place, Guardroom RAF Marham,car pulls up to the barrier, out jumps an officer,wearing a beret (not peaked cap) and with avery enthusiastic salute announced himself‘Wg Cdr Henniker-Heaton here.’ Flinging up anequally enthusiastic salute replied, ‘Cpl JohnBadger here’. He raised an eyebrow and said‘Come to see the Station Adjutant’. ‘Right sir’, Ireplied and proceeded to accompany him toStation HQ, all in complete silence.

Tom Woolhouse sent an interesting photographfrom RAF Hucknall, No. 3 District c1949, showingmotorcycles and Landrover from the EventsTeam. Sgt. Smith is alongside the Landrover. Tomsays he’ll try and locate some pics.

There is an electronic version of theProvost Parade available now. Type in Forces Publications, click on the following links, Corporate Publishing,RAF Publications, RAF Police and clickon View latest edition of the ProvostParade. If you choose to read yourProvost Parade this way, please informSteve Cattell or Dave Wardell, theAssociation will save almost a £1 per copyon postage.

There is an opportunity for the RAFPA tohave a page in the Provost Parade, if youhave an article or photograph you believewould be of particular interest to the readership, please send to Steve Cattell,NOT directly to the Provost Parade.Also you might like to keep an eye open for the RAF Review Book on sale in WH Smiths and similar newsagents. The RAF Police have their own chapterwith pictures! Ed.

Electronic Version of the Provost Parade

Over the weekend of the 4th-5th November 108 members and guests from a variety ofRAFPA branches met at the Southview Park Hotel on the outskirts of Skegness for whatturned out to be a memorable gathering. I can confidently say that the majority enjoyed thetime spent swinging the lamp and even more swinging the legs to the Saturday eveningentertainer. The style of accommodation, the quality of the food and the staff’s commitment to providea good service came in for a lot of praise.In view of overwhelming support from thosepresent the venue has been booked again for the weekend 2nd-3rd. November 2012 at the same rate as this year, £200 per room for the weekend.Within hours of this being announced 30 rooms were booked for the 3rd Reunion by thoseenjoying the second. That speaks for itself. If you want a good convivial weekend breakbook now for next year.

Submitted by: John Curtis.

Second Skegness Reunion - Royal Air Force Police Association

2012

The Griff

A Letter for theEditor

Peter Farmer one of our overseas member has supplied a photographic snapshot of ayear in the life of an RAF Policeman at RAF Bishop’s Gate, 1955.

Tom Mayfield remembers that as a Station Policeman 1 week out of RAF Netheravon beinginformed that he was to go on the ‘Bank Run’. Drawing a .38 revolver and 5 bullets fromthe Armoury, never had any instruction in the use of this weapon, went with the Adjutant ina Vanguard vehicle to the Midland Bank. The Adjutant entered the bank, the driver stayedwith the vehicle, engine running and he stood at the door of the bank. Dressed with fullwhites and holstered gun he was a big attraction as parents with children asked manyquestions. Eventually the Adjutant returned, everyone into vehicle and return to camp. Heoften wonders if he would have drawn and fired the weapon and under what circumstances. He would like to know if any Association members have similar experiences with a ‘Bank Run’?

Royal Escort for HRH Duchess of Gloucester

Guardroom Duties

The Section Wheels

Motorcycle Cop

2012

The Griff

More LLeetttteerrss......

Four members of the South Downs Branchwere collecting for their designated charity'Blind Veterans UK' (formerly St Dunstan's).From left to right - Peter Barr, ArchieHeath, David Hilton and Tony Harbour.

Total amount collected - £86.00

'Paradise Park'Peter Smith found a photograph taken in1958, which illustrates the wide range ofduties of an RAFP. Cpls Smith, GeordieMilton and Ray Morris during OperationGrapple. After enduring the hardships ofleave in Hawaii and watching things gobang and making strange shaped clouds.

For those who need overnight accommodation and are unfamiliar with the area, there are twoTravelodge Hotels - A38 Northbound 0871 984 6069 and Southbound 0871 984 6068.

As usual, roundabout 1300 hrs, a buffet has been arranged at the nearby RBL club at £5 perhead, which is, as most of you will know, the same price as years gone by. When booking a place,individually or as a Branch group – please make cheques payable to the RAFPA and send toMr Bernard Lamb “Thornmead” The Hollies Rainworth Notts NG21 OFZ. If booking as a group,please ensure that a list of names of those attending is enclosed with the cheque. A master list willbe kept of all those who booked and please, book no later than 11th June so that the RBL canbe prepared.

1130hrs form up ready to march past the Reviewing Officer – the RAFPA President - Air Cdr NBray and our Vice President – Gp Capt Mark Sexton. It is planned that the Parade Marshal willbe WO Bill Veazey. Those members and family not marching – please be at the Memorial by1145hrs ready for the Service. Copies of Order of Service will be available. Any wheelchair usersare invited to bring up the rear of the parade for the march to the Memorial – but no racing orovertaking?.

Meet and greet between 0930 and 1130 hrs

RAFP and RAFPA Parade National Arboretum - 23 June 2012

2012

The Griff

Nigel Lacey - National Standard Bearer

In miserable weather conditions and driving rain members of the RAFP and RMPAssociations gathered together at Alrewas for their 5th annual ‘Snowdrop’ Parade.

The Parade was inaugurated by the East Midlands Branch Chairman, Bernard Lamb in2008, to honour and commemorate the lives of past and present members of the RAFPolice. At the very beginning, the RMPA Chairman, Mike Seaborne, asked if they could joinwith us to pay tribute to both the RAF Police and the Royal Military Police. Permission wasgranted without reservation and the collaboration has been very successful.

First halt for the Parade was at the RAFPolice Memorial where a short service wasconducted by the Reverend MichaelMaclachlan, former Provost Officer, assist-ed by his wife Kit. The Last Post wasplayed by former Royal Marine BuglerAdrian Harper. Wreaths were laid by TedHellewell and Mike Seaborne.Members then marched to the RMPMemorial where an identical ceremonytook place.

Combined RAFP & RMP Associations ‘Snowdrop’ Remembrance Parade

National Memorial Arboretum, 7th March 2012

AD Buster straight from hissuccess at Crufts and Flt SgtMike Barrow proudly lead theparade.

The Griff

2012

Ted Hellewell & WO Gary Owen

Following this, members walked to the RAF Regiment Memorial where Brian Whitaker reada tribute to SAC Ryan Tomlin, recently Killed in Action in Afghanistan, and a wreath was laidby Ted Hellewell.

All in all, it was good day marred only by the weather, - but, what the heck, we’ve all beenthere, done it and got the T-shirts.

Edited from report by Trevor Evans

National Memorial Arboretum, 7th March 2012 cont:

The Griff

AGM Minutes 2012Meeting commenced: 1403hrs, 14th April, 2012.Present: 43 Members present, including 16 members of the Executive Council. Also presentwas Air Commodore Nick Bray; National President ( AO FP & AO RAF Police) and Group CaptainMark Sexton; National Vice President (PM (RAF)).

Welcome and Introduction. RAFPA Chairman; Ted Hellewell, welcomed all those present. Aprayer was then said for all past and present members and serving personnel. Ted informed thefloor that there was a list displayed in the Arundel room of those members who have died in thepreceding year. The Chairman then presented the National President with his RAFPA membership card.

Apologies for absence. Thanks to those who did submit apologies for absence. There were 154proxy votes submitted, which also stand as apologies for absence. The list was considered toolong to read out.

Minutes of previous AGM. - Accepted; no comments.Matters arising. - None.Chairman’s Report. Cenotaph Parade. Ted voiced thanks to John Walton for his organisational efforts. Shortaddress by John, who thanked Bill Veazey for his services over the years, as our Parade Marshal.Snowdrop Parade 2012. Short address by Brian Whitaker on the event. He stated it was well

supported, with slightly more RAFPA than RMPA members attending.

RAFP Recruitment and Graduation events. Ted pointed out there would be no further graduationceremonies until March 2013. Short address by Vice President on current RAFP recruitment policy which; in the main, has been affected by the cuts to HM Forces.Repatriation ceremonies. Short address by Brian Flinn. There has been a good record of attendance since November 2008, formally at Royal Wooton Bassett; now Carterton, and at JohnRadcliffe Hospital, Oxford. Sadly; 124 ceremonies have been supported too date.

Wessex Branch. A new Branch has been raised that encompasses areas of West Dorset, East Devon and South Somerset; known as the Wessex Branch. Unfortunately, there is no representation at the AGM as all the Branch officers are sick. We wish them well.

Comfort boxes. These are still going out to RAFP personnel in Afghanistan. Gary Owen the PM’sWarrant Officer informed the Chairman that the boxes were very well received. This was endorsedby the Vice President, who thanked those who were donating. Charities. Most Branches have made donations to the Charities of their choice over the past year,which amounts to several thousand pounds in total. Details of the Charities are on display in theArundel room.

The Griff

Trade Mark. Alan Shaw said that the badge of the RAFPA is registered with the Patents Office.As such, any unauthorised use will result in legal proceedings. He has now obtained a HaycockLicence – free of charge, 5 year renewal – which sanctions’ the badge for display purposes onthe World Wide Web. Any infringement of use will again result in legal proceedings and possiblewithdrawal of the licence.Recruiting Campaign. The Chairman stated that he is attempting to construct a recruiting policy, for service personnel, with our Vice President and WO Bill Veazey. There was a short inputby Group Captain Mark Sexton, regarding the views and impressions of serving personnel andpossible approaches to them. A short discussion then took place in respect to the wholerecruiting issue for the Association.

The Chairman then thanked the National and Branch Officers for their support throughout his firstyear in office.

Secretaries Report. Dave Wardell said that there is a small but steady trickle of new membersinto the Association. There are still issues over the effectiveness of proxy voting. In respect tothis; a proposal was carried at the previous day’s Executive Council Meeting. Branches are todiscuss their preferred methods of voting, include proxy voting and report back. Once selected;the most practical and efficient system would be discussed at the next Executive Council meeting and possibly introduced as an agenda proposal for 2013 AGM.

Treasurers Report. The Chairman explained that unfortunately our Treasurer, Tony Lake; whowas not seeking re-election, was unwell and unable to attend. Mike Thornton, who is now his co-opted deputy, was also unable to attend. For that reason, the Chaiman asked that theTreasurers Report be waived, to allow Mike the opportunity to present his findings at the nextExecutive Council meeting. There were no objections. John Howard proposed that a vote ofthanks be passed to Tony Lake, for his valuable contribution to the Association as Treasurer overthe past four years. This was carried unanimously.

Election of National Officers. Steve Cattell proposed that there be a block election of the uncontested National Officers namely: Ted Hellewell as Chairman, Bernard Lamb as ViceChairman, Dave Wardell as Membership Secretary and Alan Shaw as Trustee. The proposal wasvoiced and seconded by John Walton. The proposal was carried by an overwhelming majorityof those present, together with the proxy votes.

Brian Flinn; seconded by Bernard Lamb, proposed that Eric Harrison be appointed as NationalSecretary. This proposal was carried by majority vote of those present, with the proxy vote of 147for, 1 against and 3 abstentions.

Due to the ill health of Tony Lake; Mike Thornton was formally co-opted as National Treasurer.This position will be formally decided at the AGM 2013.

2012

The Griff

Appointment of National Auditor and Banker. Steve Cattell proposed: that the existing Auditor(Cox) and Banker (Nat West) are retained. Seconded by John Walton. This was carried by anoverwhelming majority under the block vote. Proxy votes: (Auditor) 148 for, 1 against, 0 abstentions. (Bank) 147 for, 0 against, 0 abstentions.

Other pre-notified business.Life Membership is discontinued. Dave Wardell raised the issue of Life Membership. Tony Lakefelt that this status position was not a financially viable option for the future. There was a short discussion on the topic, followed by a vote to discontinue new Life Membership, from currentdate. (This proposal does not affect those with existing Life Membership). Proposed by TonyLake, seconded by Dave Wardell. Vote: of those present; 32 for, 8 against, 3 abstentions. Proxyvote; 134 for, 12 against, 6 abstentions. Carried by an overwhelming majority.

Subscriptions modification for serving members. Alan Shaw suggested that we do away withthe £22.00 initial fee for serving members. To be replaced by a £7.50 annual fee. Alan felt thatmembership subs should be rationalised. There was a lively discussion on the subject. MitchO’Neill suggested that; due to the implications surrounding serving personnel they all automaticallybecome members of the RAFPA. There was a further discussion on the subject, which resulted inAlan withdrawing his proposal. Alan felt that there might be merit in the suggestion. As it was toolate to change or alter his own proposal, he withdrew it. This was to allow time for a full investigationand discussion prior to any further proposal. This would be submitted to the 2013 AGM.

John Walton MBE, be appointed as Life Vice President of the Association. Brian Whitakeraddressed the meeting. He outlined John Walton’s long contribution to the Association.He proposed that John be appointed Life Vice President. Seconded by Tony Lake. There was aunanimous vote from those assembled with a proxy vote of 145 for, with 6 abstentions.

Westminster Cross of Remembrance. Bill Veazey gave a short address about the MemorialGarden at Westminster Abbey. He proposed that the Association undertakes to provide a memorialcross annually, within the plot. Individual Branches can then follow suit if they wish. Proposal seconded by Alan Shaw. The vote was an overwhelming majority vote from those present. Proxyvote; 147 for, 6 abstentions. Proposal carried.

Vote of thanks proposed by Bill Veazey. This was to Tony Lake (Treasurer); Dave Wardell ; forhis fourteen years as Secretary, (Dave is remaining as Membership Secretary) and the rest ofNational Officers for their work over the last year.

Venue for next AGM is the 13th/14th April 2013. To be held at the Royal Court Hotel, TamworthRoad, Keresley, Coventry, CV78 JG. It should be noted: between now and the next AGM, furtherresearch and consultation needs to be done regarding where, when and how often Executivemeetings and AGM’s should take place. It is important to do this within the strict guidelines andthe Chairman will ensure that this is put into effect.Meeting closed: 1519 hrs.

AGM Minutes 2012 cont:

2012

The Griff

On the weekend the 13th to 15th April, the 2012 AGM and re-union was held at the CrownPlaza Hotel, Gatwick, hosted by the South Downs Branch. The food and accommodationwas very good, and the staff of the hotel gave an excellent service.A parade took place on the Saturday morning (14th), led by the pipes and drum of the localATC band, with standards flying and good number of members marching. The salute wastaken by Air Commodore Nick Bray, accompanied by the PM Group Captain Mark SextonThe executive meeting on the Friday and the AGM on Saturday went well. The Saturdayevening Gala Dinner was very good, with entertainment by the ‘Swingtime Sweethearts’ andmembers of the South Downs branch. Two raffles were drawn, with some very good prizesbeing won, both in the room and around the country. The proceeds of the raffles were splitbetween ‘Blind Veterans UK’ and the South Downs branch. A cheque for £1,200, whichincludes other donations, will be presented to Blind Veterans UK. Additionally there was a‘Guess the Name’ competition, which raised £50 for ‘Combat Stress’. The feedback fromthose present at the weekend was that they had enjoyed it all. The members of the SouthDowns branch wish to thank all who participated in this event. The full list of Raffle prize winners at the 2012 AGM may be obtained from; Tony Harbour 01273 302860

Submitted by: Dave Hilton.

Shouldn't laugh at the ladies expense but it was funny. The first picture was a snap of the'welcome' screen in the foyer of the hotel; it was changed by the Saturday morning!

Submitted by: Bill Veazey

For more pictures of The AGM pleasesee Pages 23 & 24. Ed.

"Oh Dear, What Can the Matter Be"

Well done on a great weekend, you and your team made it a great occasion. To add anamusing anecdote, my wife Joy and her friend Sheila got stuck in a lift at the hotel onSunday morning, the hotel staff were unable to get the doors open and called the firebrigade to free them. They were in there for about half an hour and had to be hoisted tothe floor above by the firemen where the doors were able to be opened!!

Submitted by: Brian Flynn

AGM Weekend 2012

2012

The Griff

Nostalgic reminiscences! Final Part

I shall always remember Cpl. Morris giving us a lectureon Powers of Arrest. Part of it related to citizens’powers of arrest, namely, apprehending anyonecommitting a felony, absentees and deserters, andanyone committing an offence against the OfficialSecrets Act.One morning two of my female colleagues atLeamington Spa walked towards town training theirguide dogs, when quite unexpectedly, a young manindecently exposed himself to them. They returned tothe training centre and the police were called. Theywere shown a photo album of known offenders, butnone were recognised. During that afternoon the girlsspotted him again. Whilst one phoned the police theother threatened to set her dog on him as he triedto board a bus! Heeding to her threat, he walked on.When I saw her with two dogs in hand following him,she indicated to me that he was the offender. I handedmy dog to her and approached him. A struggleensued. He foolishly dashed across the main roadmidst fast moving traffic. When safe I pursued himand eventually caught him in a back garden and

detained him there for thirty minutes until the police arrived. Having cautioned him, he deniedthe offence towards my colleagues. I then asked him why he tried to run away. He begged meto let him go as he was only a deserter from the Army! Because of his admission, I told him that,as a citizen, I was arresting him for being a deserter from H.M. Forces. He was taken into custody and we made statements at the police station thenext day. We received grateful thanks from the police whoinformed us that the offender turned out to be the sameman they were seeking who had attempted burglaries ontwo jewellers shops in the town a few nights earlier.Fortunately, we were not required to attend court — ourstatements were sufficient.At 76 years of age and still training dogs and their handlers, I look back over all those years and rememberthe happy and most valued times I spent at RAFNetheravon, and how they prepared me for many thingsthat have happened in my life. I feel others would have feltthe same and now we enjoy being members of the RoyalAir Force Police Association.

Submitted by: Michael Tucker

2012

The Griff

We thanked Royal Wootton Bassett...In our last edition of The Griff we thanked Royal Wootton Bassett for the last time and in thisissue we are sadly commenting on Carteton. It's only March and it was the fifth time thisyear that we had stood at the Memorial Garden outside RAF Brize Norton, although this isbetter than last year because we had been to Wootton Bassett eight times in this same peri-od, to see the return of more o our soldiers repatriated in coffins from Afghanistan, this wasan especially saddening occasion as we were there to see the return of another six soldierswho had so tragically been killed on active service. These latest six casualties brought thenumber of military deaths in Afghanistan since 2001 to 404. This is the biggest single lossof UK life at one time in Afghanistan since a Nimrod aircraft crashed killing 14 personnel in2006. As was to be expected, the number of people there to pay their respects was esti-mated to be in excess of two thousand, which included an extremely large representationof family and friends of those being repatriated. As the large funeral cortege and policeescorts travelled along Norton Way, the 46 ex-Service Association Standards on paradecommenced their rolling dip which was completed as the hearses stopped adjacent to therespective waiting families. A great number of floral tributes were then placed on eachhearse during a period of silent reflection, broken only by the expressed grief of family,friends and some of those gathered. The funeral cortege then slowly departed, to thesound of respectful applause, for the onward journey to the John Radcliffe Hospital inOxford. Representing the RAF Police Association at Carterton were David Budd (WiltsStandard), Ivan Carey & Frances, John & Ruth Crosby, Brian Flinn, Kim Hassall, Jack &Vida Sharp and Vic Smith & his daughter Michelle, and representing us all at the JohnRadcliffe were Brian Crossin, Reg Lamb, Roy Laver, Mike & Sonia Lester, Pat & MaureenPlumridge and friend Gill, Bryan Simmonds, Bob Strachan (LHC Standard) and Bill Sykes.

Submitted By: Brian FlinnAcknowledgement: To Picture Editor, HQ Media & Communications (Army)

2012

The Griff

Last Post..A chance to pause for a minutein quiet contemplation for ourfriends and colleagues whohave ‘passed away’.

Mr. Tom Daly - EMB

Mr. Derek Benson – WANG

Mr. Geoffrey Banks – H..D.& IOW

Mr. Peter Bowery – NEB

Mr. John Owram – MAB

Mr. John Wilson – SWAB

Mr. Leo Seddon - SWAB

A specially designed RAFPA 2013 calendar in full colour on every page is availablefor purchase NOW. The cost is £3.00 plus £1.50 pp. You may also purchase that specialdate, anniversary, birthday or memorial for an additional £1.00. There can only be onename per day, so first come, first served. Deadlines for the special reserved dayis first week of October and any photographs you would like considered for the calendaris the same date. NB: If more than 1 calendar ordered the postage is £1.50 per calendar.

Cheques should be made payable to RAFPA and with the cheque, details of address tobe mailed and ‘special date’ if applicable to be sent to Mitch O’Neill, 11, Florentine Way,Waterlooville, Hants., PO7 8JY.

Calendars will be sent out early to mid November 2012. If you have any queries pleasedon’t hesitate to contact Mitch, electronically, ‘snail mail’ or telephone.

Name:......................................................................................................................................Address:.................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................

No. of Calendars required: Cheque for amount: £..........................................

RAFPA Calendar 2013

2012

The Griff

Late 1941 Frank was posted to RAF Habbaniya, Iraq, he then went into the MountedSection at RAF Shaibah. In Autumn 1943 Frank moved onto Provost duties at Cairo.

Frank returned to the UK October 1944 with a posting to North Killingholme. He wasdemobbed in 1946 and joined Accrington Borough Police, transferred to LancashireConstabulary and then to Cheshire Constabulary. He retired in 1977 at the rank of ChiefInspector.

Submitted by: Museum of Policing in Cheshire, Warrington Police Stn, Arpley St, Warrington, WA1 1LQ

Frank Argent was born in Essex in 1921. August 1940 he received his call up papers forthe RAF and his basic training was at Bridgenorth. From there he went onto Uxbridge for RAFPolice training. His first proper posting was RAF Lossiemouth.

Iraq, Top left: Basra, Bagdad, Egypt and Shaiba

Old & Bold!

2012

The Griff

bygone days & years40 years…Provost Branch celebrate theirSilver Anniversary at the RAFP Depot

50 + years…RAFP Dog Demo Teamprove to be extremely popular and aninstant success with the 250,000 peoplewho attended the performances at theRoyal Tournament at Earls Court.

60 years…Mau Mau State of Emergencydeclared in Kenya – RAFP at RAF Eastleighincrease internal security. The Yfai Tribe inthe Sultanate of Mukalla(Aden) appointedas RAFP Auxiliaries to protect the air stag-ing post at Riyan on the hostile S Arabiancoastline.

10 years…RAFP deployed at variouslocations on the Golden Jubilee anniver-sary of HM Queen Elizabeth11. ProvostMarshal releases details of units earmarkedfor Military Police Guard Duties(MPGS) toreplace misemployed RAFP.

20 years…Various studies and audits takeplace to look at practical ways to reducethe establishment of the RAF and developvalue for money through greater efficiency.

30 years…His Holiness Pope John Paul11 visits the UK and RAFP provideenhanced security measures at RAFLeeming and RAF Turnhouse to facilitatehis reception.

The Key dates produced for this feature are taken from a list supplied by Steve Davies. To fit intothe time scale shown, (eg. 10, 20, 30… years ago) some events may have a little latitude of afew months. Ed.

Welcome To New MembersSDBMr. Raymond Butler - Sussex

NORMr. Richard Harvey - Norfolk

WILTSMr. Julian Morant - Somerset

YONMr. Charles Caisley - Northallerton

YOSMr. Leslie Smith - Hull

NWBMr. Arthur Evans – DenbigshireMr. Neil Edgley – Crewe

LHCMr. Euan Williamson - Kent

EMBMr. Michael (Mick) Curran – LincolnMr. Desmond Saint – Newark

MABMr. Adrian Doughty - Warwick

Serving MembersMr. Alexander Keegan – Hants..Mr. Ryan Fuce – Lancs..Gp Capt Mark Sexton – HenlowMr Gary Owen – HenlowMr. Mick McConnell – LincolnAir Cdre Nicholas Bray - Bucks

Membership as at 30th April 2012 - 1487

Jan/April 2012

2012

The Griff

RAFPA SALESSubscriptions 2012

Members Renewal £ 12.50

New Members Joining 20121st January to 30th June Joining fee £ 8.50Subscription £ 12.501st July to 31st December Joining fee £ 8.50Subscription £ 6.50

Life Membership (incl: Joining Fee)

.Aged 55 years and over £120.00

Serving Members Scheme .Membership for entire service One off payment £ 22.00(Does not include Provost Parade or

Members Directory)

NOTE: Joint membership mayapply to eligible spouses of existingmembers and to those joining asServing Members.One normal joining fee plus £ 1.00

Life Conversion £120.00

B1 White Beret £10.25Please send cap size with order

B4 RAFPA Lapel Badge £ 2.50

B5 Beret Badge (RAFPA Crest) £ 5.25

B6 RAFPA Blazer Badge £ 7.25

C1 RAFPA Cufflinks £ 5.50

T3 RAF Police TieNavy blue with repeatedGold Griffins £ 7.75

T4 RAF Police Bow Tie Black & Red Diagonal Stripes £ 7.75

T5 RAFPA Clip-on TieBlack/Red Diagonal Stripes with RAFPA crest £ 8.75

T6 RAFPA TieBlack & Red Diagonal Stripeswith RAFPA Crest £ 7.75

T7 RAFPA TieBlack & Red Diagonal StripesNO CREST £ 6.25

Please Note The plain Blue Tie with a single RAFPA Crest is no longer available

P1 RAFPA Wall Shields, screen printed, light coloured wood base, 150 x 175 mm (5" X 7") £30.25

All items inc. postage and packing and are available from:Mr. AK Lake, (Tony) 24 Trendlewood ParkStapleton Bristol BS16 1TE

Please make cheques payable to: RAFPA(to accompany your order) and write your name & address on the reverse of your order. Depending on stock availability orders will bedispatched with 5 working days of receipt of order.For those wishing to purchase items fromProvost Parade shop a list of merchandise can be found on the main RAFPA Site at,http://www.rafpa.com/ppms.htmA note for those purchasing berets, it is best not to shrinkthem, because they are not made with the same amountof material as the Service Blue issue beret. It is best tolightly spray with water, fit and shape to head and then letdry on an upturned basin, or similar.

STOP PRESS

Although the position of Treasurer haschanged any item from RAFPA Saleswill still be actioned by Tony Lake.Tel: 01179 652302

The Treasurer, Mike Thornton, wishes toremind all members that subscriptions aredue on the 1st January 2013. Pleaseensure your payments are made promptlyand the correct information is with theBanks if paying by direct debit, etc..Thank you in advance.

Subscriptions

2012

The Griff

WWaallkk DDoowwnnmemory lane

rem

em

be

r

remember

Does this bring

back memories

for anyone?

Familiarisation Course July 1963Basic Police Course 1956

Cyprus 1959

2012

The Griff

AGM - Standards on Parade

Napoleon Bray!

Baron Von Hilton!

AGMOur Spirits never Flagged!

AGMThe Griff

MMaayy 22001122 IIssssuuee

AGM Weekend 2012

Parade Dismiss.Address to the Troops.

The best is yet to come!

The film was better!

the griff griff may 2012 web.pdf · to popular demand are hosting the event again in 2012. the 2012...

Documents