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 PostWelcome to New Members Bygone Days & YearsWalk Down Memory Lane

This Issue!

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

Special ArticlesThoughts!Respects at the NMAMissing LancasterNostagic Reminiscences pt. 1Presentation - Wootton Bassett

p.4p.12p.14p.16p.17

SSeepptteemmbbeerr 22001111

R

For Information See Page 23

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Hon. President Hon. Vice President Air Cdre Russell W La Forte CBE MA BA RAF ACOS FP AO RAF Police

Life Vice Presidents: Steve Cattell, E Mail: webmaster@rafpa.comNeil Rusling, E Mail: neil@neilrusling.comDavid Wardell, E Mail: membershipsec@rafpa.com

Elected Officers

Treasurer: Tony Lake 24 Trendlewood Park, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1TE Tel: 0117 965 2302E Mail: lake_a@sky.com

Voluntary Posts

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: 276curtis@tiscali.co.uk E Mail: michael.oneill67@ntlworld.com

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

Association Trustees:Steve Cattell: steve.cattell@btinternet.comSteve Davies: steveguida@hotmail.comAlan P Shaw: apshaw5@btinternet.comBernard Lamb: firemead@ntlworld.com

Who’s Who in theRAF Police Association - 2011

Secretary: Dave Wardell40, South Western CresentPoole, Dorset BH14 8RRTel/Fax: 01202 747176 E Mail: secretary@rafpa.com

Hon. Vice PresidentGp Capt John W Whitmell MA Ed BA PM (RAF).

RAFPA Independent Accountants:Mabe Allen - Derby

RAFPA Web-site address:www.rafpa.com

Chairman: Ted Hellewell6 Iona CloseEast Sussex, BN27 3GATel: 01323 449 833E Mail: te.hellewell@googlemail.com

Vice Chairman: Bernard LambThornmead, The Hollies,Rainworth, Nottingham NG21 0FZTel/Fax: 01623 798856E Mail: firemead@ntlworld.com

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At a fairly recent Armistice Day Parade involving numerous branches of the Services, serving and retired, I overheard myself being described to another Association member ashaving been “only National Service”. Very true, considering the presence of so many ex-Regulars in our ranks on that day. ThenI considered the role National Service had played in forming my character and future life. Itwas “only” two years, from late 1951 to late 1953 but, between “squarebashing” at Padgateand extensive training at Netheravon in Basic and Provost Police work, I gained self confidence and pride in my personal appearance that was to last a lifetime. NationalService, to me, was an experience to be remembered with pride, not to be spoken of anddismissed derisively. Following demob I was appointed Constable in the then Stirling & ClackmannanConstabulary and completed 26 years service, mostly as a village constable. I know I

didn’t see foreign parts or serve in exotic locations nor did I attain high statusbut I did achieve my ambition—to be a “local bobby”! I still regard my time with the RAFP as an experience to be remembered withaffection. I regard fellow RAFPA members as friends. I like to listen to theirexperiences in the service and probably bore them with some of my experiences but- what the Hell- we all like to “swing the lamp”. In a life devoted to law enforcement, National Service in the Provost Branch

of the Royal Air Force Police gave me a great kickstart in life of which I amimmensely proud My working life was spent in uniform, serving my

community, dealing with family tragedies, sudden deaths, family disputes and a multitudeof other problems that in those days, fell within the scope of the local policeman. Don’t deride those who served as “only National Serviceman”. Thousands of young menbenefited greatly from their experience and today's youth would probably benefit from suchan experience in the present climate of “soft touch” justice, permissiveness and almosttotal lack of proper control and pride in their appearance.

THOUGHTS

Submitted by: Tom Morgan

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On a bright sunny morning, members of the RAFPA, drawn from the H.D.& I.O.W., SouthDowns and London Branches, supported by members of the RMPA and RN Regulatorscongregated in the Military Church at Southwick Park for the inaugural, annual RAFPA

Church service. The service wasconducted by a visitingAustralian Padre, Duncan Becsifrom Perth, aided by our veryown Padre Ken Appleford, whoread the lesson, the salutary taleof St.Paul's Conversion on theroad to Damascus.Four students from a currentcourse read the tributes to the‘fallen’ and took the collection .After the service some membersretired to the Officers Mess forlunch, whilst others followed

different pursuits. As the event was not widely publicised it was a very successful occasion,next year the intended date has not yet been ratified. So please when available put it in yourdiary and hopefully we can make it a truly terrific event

Submitted by: Ed.

Inaugural RAFPA Church Service, Southwick Park, Sunday 10th July, 2011

Grateful thanks to Dave Hilton's Grandson Charlie who took the Photo.

Visit to the Old War Office 31st. April 2011 by members of the London Home CountiesBranch RAFP Association. Submitted by: Mike Lester

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LLeetttteerrss ttoo tthheeEditor

Mike Culley, writes to say that in May2011, he completed a 6 hour, ten mileswim and the following day cycled a 12.5hrs, 200 bike ride. Mike undertook thispunishing routine with James Marshalland members of the ParatroopsAssociation. This wonderful feat ofendurance raised £3000 for the Help theHeroes charity

Submitted by: Mike Culley

Chuck Agar writes, I am clearly the Chuckthat Graham Lenton enquired about (TheGriff, May 2011) Chuck says that he was atAkrotiri 1960/63 on the Tropical Compoundand later the SSA. He remembers such stalwarts as TedHellewell, George Clapperton, BernardLamb, Jim Cochrane, Tony Geldart and JimNelson. The unfortunate part is he isunable to remember Graham.

Edited version of letter, Ed.

James Sanderson wrote to say thanks forshowing the captured JU87 dive bomber inNorth Africa. He also mentioned his billet inHong Kong c 1946, it was unusual in that itwas the H.Q. of the Combined Provost unit,on the mainland of Hong Kong (Kow Loon).All units were used for shore duties, butonly the RAFP NCO’s carried out SIB andAccident Investigations. Much to thedelight of the other Services the cateringwas by the RAF.

You may be interested to know thatalthough not one of his actual targetnames, I did a short stint at HQP&SSSteamer Point Aden while on attachmentfrom RAF Biggin Hill in 1966.During a twoup RAFP/RMP patrol with me driving ourLandrover, Dave Kempson was sitting inthe open backed rear section of the vehicle with an inebriated Paratrooper en-route to Close Arrest. The vehicle wasstill in motion when our prisoner decided tokick Dave out of the rear of the vehicle anddo a Para type jump out prior to runningaway in order to escape.Following a 200yards race, I managed to collar him againwhile Dave recovered his composure andwe continued our patrol. Although not having seen him since that eventful day in1966, Dave is from Yorkshire but now livesin Littlehampton, which is only about 5miles west of my home address in Ferring.Dave and his Wife have already visited myWife and myself at our home address andI understand that they have been invited toattend our next RAFPA South Downs Areameeting in Brighton in the hope that hemay recognise some ex RAFP faces whocould have been in Aden at that particulartime in question. It really does show what asmall world we live in.

Submitted by: Mike Irving

From Evan Williams (Flash), Hi Mitch justcome across your piece about the dog trials not being held 1963 -1974.It was held at R.A.F. Debden in 1966 I was4th, with A/D Rebel I have a paper cuttingin my local paper reporting it. I hope morepeople can remember.

Iron Man of Devon

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Peter Markwick very kindly sent a photocopy of the front page of the Isle of Thanet Gazette,dated 26th August 1955, containing a full report of the RAF Manston Shooting Rampage. Theevent as described in the May issue of The Griff seems to be reasonably accurate. Peter alsosent information on the alleged mutiny with references to a book entitled ‘Front Line County’by Andrew Rootes, page 53 describes how after several days of bombing, airmen were soterrified they refused to leave the deep shelters. A Sqd Ldr stopped an officer from enteringthe shelter to shoot the first man who refused to come out and Padre King disarmed anotherofficer who was threatening to kill everyone in the ‘Mess’.

‘Eagle Day’ by Richard Collier mentions officers trying to get men out of the shelter, however there is no mention of weapons.

Bill Walkley’s mind was intrigued when he read about the smallest Guardroom. Posted toRAF Beaulieu in 1948, the existing Guardroom was a Nissen Hut adjoining the Police billet,also a Nissen Hut, nowhere near the Main Gate!In 1949 this arrangement was closed down, the billet re-sited, although still a Nissen Hut,but the Guardroom was a very small building, built of stone and by the Main Gate. On entering this building on either side were small rooms, then you opened the door to theGuardroom, no cells, prisoners were sent to RAF Calshot. It was difficult to accommodate4 people. Would there be a smaller Guardroom than this??

In a roundabout route this info was obtained from John Matthews whose memory juiceswere started when he read the ‘Smallest Guardroom’ piece in a recent issue of The Griff. I was at RAF Beaulieu c1956. My memories of the Guardroom was that it was about 12’ x8’ and built of breeze blocks. It was claustrophobic so it might have been 10’ x 6’ and asall measurement have now gone metric it could have been smaller!!. It was not a gardenshed too small to store lawn mowers. I went back about 20 years later and eventually foundthe remains of the camp, covered in New Forest vegetation, found the peri-track and runway, even found the concrete slab the Guardroom had stood on, it’s a shame I didn’tmeasure it.

The Guest of Honour this year was L/cpl Johnson Beharry, VC; the celebrations were supported by, theRBL, War Widows Association andvarious other Associations.One of the main events was a paradein which a cadre of the Defence PoliceForce from Southwick Park attended.After the parade Veterans Badgeswere presented by the Deputy LordLieutenant, Sir Guy Acland

Submitted by: Eric Chestnut

Smallest Guardroom?

Armed Forces Day, I.O.W. 18TH June 2011

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A Letter for theEditor

This letter was published in the Daily Telegraph on the 2nd July. It is from the mother ofMarine Sam Alexander MC, 42 Commando Royal Marines, killed in Afghanistan in May. She told us that her family were very moved by the heartfelt scenes of emotion and supportthat greeted them at Wootton Bassett at his repatriation. She hopes that the public will notbe prevented, in any way, from showing their genuine appreciation for the sacrifices madeby our service personnel. The letter is confirmation, if any were needed, why ourAssociation, and many more like us, attend the repatriations on each occasion.

Submitted by: Ted and Gill Hellewell.

NO MINISTER!

Public Show of Support

Sir, Andrew Robathan, the Minister for Defence Personnel, said that a decision had beentaken deliberately to avoid public scenes of emotion during repatriation of servicemen’sremains (report, June 27th)My son, Sam Alexander, MC, was repatriated last month. Proceedings at RAF Lynehamwere undertaken with dignity but little consideration for the feelings of family and friends (a maximum of seven) permitted to attend. All runs in military slow time, prolonging theagony as we watch our boys come home.By contrast, our arrival at Wootton Bassett was filled with humanity. From the moment I waswelcomed with respect and kindness by the British Legion and then reunited with the restof the family and Sam’s friends, I felt the warmth of genuine kindness and sympathy, whichhas given me strength in these sad days.The occasion drew those who had known Sam from all over Britain, including those whohad known him from birth, including his earliest school friends, those with whom he hadspent his rebellious teenage years and his fellow serving Marines. There were others therewho did not know Sam personally, but wanted to be there to pay their respects as they perhaps prayed for the safe homecoming of their loved oneTo describe this as a ‘ public scene of emotion’ is to debase the human spirit that acknowledges loss, grief and honour. To stand among so many people gathered for sucha simple purpose would give Mr. Robathan and his fellow Ministers a rare moment wherethere is no political statement to be made, in which they could be with their fellow humanbeings united in a common cause.The fact that these sad occasions are shown to the nation may make the number of losses more obvious, but surely that is good ? It should make the Government consider itsdefence strategy and take even more care that our servicemen and women only risk theirlives in a just cause.

Submitted by: Serena Alexander

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More LLeetttteerrss......

At the Cenotaph this year there will be a noticeable addition to the dress of some of ourmarchers. This will be as a mark of respect for those Dog Handlers, and their dogs that,whilst serving in previous and on going war zones under very dangerous conditions, havedied or been seriously injured, be they from Army Dog Units or from the RAF Police DogUnits. Those of our registered members, who were former Dog Handlers and who wish todo so, will wear the approved service Rope Lead over their shoulder during the parade. WOBill Veazey will ensure uniformity should this be needed. John Walton, who has organisedeach Cenotaph parade to date, will add this news to the notes he submits to the organising committee and which is normally handed on to the BBC. It is believed that this sensitive and emotive act will be readily understood and appreciatedby all service personnel and the general public. So, setting aside the well-known banter wehave heard and enjoyed amongst the various specialisations in our trade group, let us giveour wholehearted support to our QPD colleagues, old and new, along with all RAF Policewherever they are serving in these troubled times. Any dog handler who would like to knowmore please contact Stewart McCardle.

Submitted by: Ted Hellewell

On a bright summer's day the latest recruits to theRAF Police graduated in fine fashion.Originally there were only 7 recruits on the course,which generated the unofficial title of the 'SnowWhite Flight'. Eventually another person joined thecourse and they reverted to the Debden Flight.Before the church ceremony and parade, parentsand guests enjoyed visiting the RAF Museumopened for them and staffed by members of theSouth Downs Branch.Cpl Katie Yates, who has been posted to RAF Digby,was the winner of the RAFPA Trophy and theAssociation Chairman, Ted Hellewell, presented thetravelling clock, her memento of the occasion. Hername has been recorded in the Roll of Honour Bookwhich is kept in the Museum along with the trophy.

The Cenotaph – 13th November 2011

Friday July 1st 2011 - Southwick Park Pass out Parade

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: jk34@talktalk.net or visit our website at: www.nsrafa.org

The National Service (RAF) Association

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City Parade in 1946

Following the defeat of Hitler’s Nazi regime in 1945, the RAF paid atribute to “The Few” – ittook place in Hull. Honoured with a march through the city, certificates and a high-profilepresentation ceremony with the faithful patrol dogs of the RAF Police. One of those onparade was Ronald Shipp a Warrant Officer in the RAF with his patrol dog Brenda duringthe city centre parade in 1946. The certificate was awarded in grateful recognition of Brenda’s loyal and faithful service.She showed tireless effort and constant devotion to duty “willingly rendered to Britain andall the free peoples of the world in time of war” – according to the top brass in Whitehall.the certificate carries the signature of the Provost Marshal, Chief of Royal Air Force Police.With Brenda’s certificate came a covering letter from the officer commanding, based at theAir Ministry in London . It said: “Although the work done by these animals has been mentioned publicly from time to time, few people who were not actually in touch with themknow of the extraordinarily valuable service which they performed. “Night after night, overa period of years, vital RAF property and equipment in isolated situations was safeguardedby them and their handlers in a manner, and with efficiency and economy in manpower,which would have been impossible by any other means. “Theirs was one of those

essential jobs which had tobe carried out in terms oflong, arduous, sometimesboring, often exacting,duties which, even thoughthey may not have comewithin the public eye somuch as others, werenone the less an importantand positive contributionto winning the war.”The Provost Marshal, saidthe handlers could takegreat satisfaction that their

dogs had done splendidly and helped in the success of the guard dog scheme within the RAF. But where exactly did these dedicated police dogs serve? RAF Sutton onHull seems certain to have been one of their bases. Flashback’s thanks go to HansHouterman, who oversees specialist website ww.rafweb.org containing details about RAFofficers. We were unable to make out the Provost Marshal’s signature on either document,but Hans soon identified him as Air Commodore O W de Putron. A First World War veteran,he became Provost Marshal in 1942 and held the post for almost 10 years. He introduceddogs into the RAF Police in 1943 and succeeded in having the investigation into theexecution of 50 RAF prisoners-of-war following the breakout from Stalag Luft III, taken overby the RAF Police. After the war he became Aide-De-Camp to King George VI.

Article by Nigel Fisher, Hull Newspapers

The Griff

Page 11 2011

Snow White Flight!

Flt lt. Chris Tyldsley leads Debden Flight in march pastProvost Marshal inspecting recruits

See Page 9 for reference

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RAF Police Association pay their respects at The NMA.

In Rem

This wreath was laiby The Chairma

Mr Ted H

In memory of the 28 memhave passed away s

Association Officers andMembers pay their respects.

The 4th Annual ‘ SnowdropParade’, with over 80 people inattendance took place on the 23rdJune. The National Standard andseven Branch Standards led theparade to the RAFPA Memorialwhere Gp Capt John Whitmell tookthe salute.

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membrance

d on 23 June 2011 an of the RAFPA.

Hellewell

mbers of the RAFPA whosince 24 June 2010.

Standard BearersJohn McCardle, Nigel Lacey,Trevor Marlew, Jim Evans,David Marr, Trevor Evans, BobStrachan, Roger Cann

Wreaths were laid by theAssociation Vice President,Gp Capt John Whitmell andChairman Ted Hellewell

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THE MYSTERY OF THE MISSING LANCASTEROn the night of 28/29 January 1944, a crew of young lads,4 RAAF and 3 RAF in a LancasterBomber ED867 of 467 Squadron took off from Waddington in the Lincolnshire to attack theKing of Targets, Berlin. They had already completed 27 missions and had been told this wastheir last Op and had made a pact to finish it together. Their role this night was photographic- to fly over the target after bombing and to photograph for Intelligence. They never came back.Later that night PO Sidney Griffiths (A), Bomb Aimer, was found in woods in theOranienburg area of Germany. His aircraft and the rest of the crew were not apparentlyfound. Griffiths was buried in a local cemetery. The rest of the crew:Flt Lt Ivan Durston DFC (RAAF) Pilot (B) - Flt Lt Harold Fry RAF) Navigator (C),Sgt Francis Aver (RAF) Engineer (D) - PO Robert Ludlow (RAAF) Wireless Op (E), Flt Sgt Phillip Gill (RAAF) Gunner Upper (F) and Flt Sgt Jack Sutherland RAAF) Tail Gunner, (G), were posted as Missing in Action. It would take 57 years to discover theirfate. A German Aviation Historical group first discovered the aircraft wreckage in a woodedarea in 1997 near the town of Oranienberg. Initial excavation of the site in 1999 by the

Aviation Group and the GermanArmy historians who dug downfor some three metres and discovered the remains of crewmen inside the wreck. Theyrecovered a quantity of remainsand some personal effects.Identification of the aircraft andcrew remained unclear and theremains were interred at BerlinWar Cemetery as UnknownBritish Airmen. Through thesubsequent investigative efforts

of a relative of one of the crew in England, and the German Aviation Group, the aircraft wasidentified in 2001 and thereby it’s crew. Further investigation, including forensic dentalcomparisons, enabled RAAF and RAF officials to declare that the remaining six crew hadbeen found. Their remains along with PO Griffiths are now internedin a collective grave. A full military funeral service on all crew wasconducted on the afternoon of Tuesday, 15 July 2003 at the BerlinWar Cemetery with the guard of honour comprising airmen from theRAAF and RAF. Also in attendance was Chief of Air Force, AirMarshal Angus Houston, along with family members of thedeceased RAF airmen.

Submitted by: Harry F Pea

Erected at the crash site is a simple memorial:

Crew of ED867

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The latest member of the North East Branch, JohnTwigger joined the Royal Air Force during the war in1941. He was originally a PTI come Drill Instructorand later transferred to the RAF Police. John, tookpart in the Normandy landings on D-Day plus 1. Hemet and married his wife (Connie, sadly who died lastyear) during the war when she was engaged in gunlaying for the ack-ack guns. John, served for a period of 6 years.

Submitted by: Rowley Coultas

The 2012 RAFP Association AGM will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Crawley, hosted by theSouth Downs Branch, on the 13th/14th April 2012. The prices are as follows:-Weekend package- Friday and Saturday. Double £255

Single £210This to include:-Friday…Dinner, standard double room and full English breakfast.Saturday… Gala Dinner, standard double room and full English breakfast.Thursday and Sunday rates, for Dinner, B & B. Double £110

Single £ 95Thursday and Sunday. Just B & B Double £ 90

Single £ 85Disabled rooms available.Free car parking. Easy access from M23. To Gatwick by air or rail- Hotel bus available (£3.20 pp).

Direct booking to Stephanie Drinkwater. Crowne Plaza Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 01293 608604. or email- meetings@cpgatwick.co.uk. Booking reference.“RAFPA AGM”.

(if you have a ‘Priority Club Rewards’ card, this may be shown when you pay)

Any queries, please contact:- Dave Hilton on 01273 275582or d.hiltonburland@ntlworld.comor Tony Harbour on 01273 302860

A VISION to provide a £60m heritage centre on the site of RAF Bicester has been launched.Bomber Command Heritage (BCH) wants to transform part of the old airbase into a museum and historic site. RAF Bicester's layout has not been changed since the Second

World War making it the best example of a historical RAF site in the UK.The air base was predominantly used as a training base but has not been in use since 2004,now acting as a home for gliding clubs. There aremany listed buildings, including aircraft hangarsdating from before the war, and the site was listed as a conservation area. The emphasis ofthe centre will be on education rather than just

creating another museum.Submitted by: Mike Lester from an article in the Oxford Mail.

Sights set on hopes for a £60m RAF Heritage Centre

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Nostalgic reminiscences! Part one

I shall always remember the 6th May 1953, when I arrived at RAF Netheravon. With about thirtyother men and three members of the WRAF, our 9-week Basic Police Training started a weeklater. We had two excellent instructors— Sgt. Whitten, whom I understood wished to become alawyer on leaving the RAF and Cpl. “Taff” Morris. He decided to become a school teacher afterbeing demobbed. I often wonder how they progressed and where they are now. Perhaps someone knows!To this day I remember much of what we learned on that strenuous course. In particular, whenlearning all about giving evidence, the only people permitted to give ‘Evidence of Opinion’ incourt were professional men and women, like forensic scientists, doctors, dentists, fingerprintand ballistic experts and several others. Examining the list, my immediate thought was that Iwould never be included in any of those professions. Oh, how wrong I was twenty years later!One thing which stuck in my mind was that when giving evidence in court, to always rememberthe 3S-U formula, i.e. Sit up, Speak up and Shut up! More about that later! However, having

passed out of No. 1 Squadron I volunteered to become a dog handler asI had had much experience in obedience dog training prior to beingcalled up for two years National Service. The six-week police dog training course was made most interesting by our instructor Cpl. HarryFox. After several months’ duty at RAF St Mawgan with my police dog3259 Prince, I was recalled to Netheravon and offered the position ofinstructor on No. 3 Squadron,Police Dog Training, which I gladlyaccepted for my second year. Ivery nearly signed on, but decidedto return to my former job in aLondon Shipping Company for ashort while before moving on to

work for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association atExeter and later at the Leamington Spa Training Centre.Having become fully qualified in that rewarding work, in 1967 I emigrated with my family to continue my work with the Royal Guide Dogs for the Blind Associations of Australia. In 1975 Ileft to set up my own dog training business which has progressed ever since. It was not longafter I had built up quite a large clientele of owners with their difficult dogs that I was called uponby lawyers to assess and give written and oral evidence of opinion in court in connection withallegedly dangerous dogs, or dogs displaying unacceptable types of bad behaviour in the community. I queried my eligibility with the first lawyer I met, because, up to that time, I wasalways under the impression that only Veterinarians were qualified to give evidence of opinion,now known as Expert Evidence, in court cases concerning dogs. He quickly assured me thatthat was quite right, but in recent times courts had come to recognise that very experienced dogtrainers and instructors were even more qualified than veterinarians because of the nature oftheir work. Since that day I have had so many dogs to visit in order to assess their temperamentsand behaviour, provide written reports on them and subsequently appear in court.

Submitted by: Michael Tucker

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President of the Norfolk Branch Stuart Lacey and his wife Ruth played hosts to theBranch members at their home recently. A suitable atmosphere of fellowship was fosteredwith good food, good wine and good company. A lot of hard work went into organisingthe event and congratulations go to Stuart and Ruth, from all Branch members, for all theirefforts. It is hoped that the experience will be shared again.

Submitted by: Stewart McCardle

If you would like to attend the CENOTAPH PARADE on the 13th November, 2011,Remembrance Sunday, please contact John Walton as soon as possible on:Tel No. 01395 446234 and e mail; clarewalt@talktalk.netLast year there were just over 60 members on parade and it would be a great achievementto pass the 70 mark this year. To march with the RAFPA contingent, you must be a currently paid up member of the Association. Please check your eligibility, it could save embarrassment.

Submitted by: John Walton

Cenotaph Parade 2011- Potential Volunteers

On Monday 25 July 2011, the Royal AirForce Police Association, presented awall shield to Wootton Bassett MayorPaul Heaphy. The Royal Air ForcePolice Association have attended thelast 108 repatriations through WoottonBassett, 2008 to July 2011 a period of6 years over 50 individual associationmembers have been in attendance.Photograph shows Wiltshire BranchChairman Ivan Carey presenting theRAF Police Association wall shield toMayor Paul Heaphy.

Submitted by: Mike Archer

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

Mr. Brian Chitticks – SWABMr. Roy Roberts – LHCMr. Ronald Buckles – ESSMr. Ron Chester – MABMr. Alastair Maclean – SNIMr. Peter Johnson - SWAB

Our £1000 donation to H4H this year has been gratefully received. The co-founders of thecharity - Bryn and Emma Parry - have confirmed that our donation is going towards thoseservice personnel wounded in the line of duty and is to ensure that they get the very bestsupport for life. It will rely on having access to a comprehensive range of help, includinglearning new skills and having social support. It will be a "one stop welfare shop" for ourwounded and their families. Submitted by: Ted Hellewell

Help for Heroes

Nominations for Association Officers and AGM Agenda.They need to be submitted to the Secretary, Dave Wardell by 31 st December 2011. Please notethe Treasurer Tony Lake does not intend to seek re-election for another term. The remainingOfficers have indicated they are prepared to serve a further term, if elected. Any item you wishdiscussed at the AGM must be with the Secretary by 31st Dec 2011 to be included in the agenda.Note if NOT on the agenda, it will NOT be discussed.

New visitor information at Runnymede Air Forces MemorialNew visitor information panels have been erected close to the main entrance at Runnymede AirForces Memorial in Surrey . Included on these panels is a QR Code which will give visitors anopportunity to download an audio guide of the memorial. The QR code is a means of giving visitors access to layers of information not previously available at our cemeteries, including information on some of the casualties at the cemetery, the architect and other relevant information.A QR Code (short for Quick Response) is a two-dimensional barcode readable by camera phones.To read a QR Code your mobile device must have a QR Code reader installed. These are freelyavailable over the internet. These addresses may be used on your mobile internet.http:://www.i-nigma.mobi http://get.isoreader.com http://get.beetagg.com/

Submitted by: Steve Cattell

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A specially designed RAFPA 2012 calendar in full colour on every page is availablefor purchase NOW. The cost is £3.00 plus £1.00 pp. Outside of Europe, postage is£4.50, within Europe £3.00 You may also purchase that special date, anniversary, birthday or memorial for an additional £1.00. There can only be one name per day, sofirst come, first served. Deadlines for the special reserved day is first week ofOctober and any photographs you would like considered for the calendar is the samedate.

Cheques should be made payable to RAFPA (H.D.&IOW Branch) and with the cheque,details of address to be 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 2011. 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: £..........................................

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bygone days & years10 years …RAF begin final stage to with-draw from Germany, by closing RAFBruggen, the last operational unit within thegroup.

20 years….Trials begin at RAF Cranwell,Shawbury and Uxbridge with the lessertrained and dual handled High ProfileCounter-Terrorist Patrol Dogs (HPCT).

30 years…Air Cdre Young retires as PMand is succeeded by Air Cdre David

40 years…HQ P&SS(FEAF)disbandedand RAF Tengah in Singapore is closed

50 years …Tension increases betweenEast and West over Cuban Missile crisis.The possibility of nuclear war became areality as the crisis peaked.

60 years…RAFP School completed movefrom RAF Pershore to RAF Netheravon inWiltshire andre-titled the Royal Air Force Police Depot.

In addition, an RAFP tie (dark blue with sil-ver griffins) was authorised to be worn withcivilian dress

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 MembersESSMr. David Jenkins - SuffolkNEBMr. Clive Oliver – DurhamNWBMr. F. Bruce Marshall - ConwayNORMr. Clive Pellett – NorwichWANGMr. Alan Partridge - Peterborough

Membership as at 31st July, 2011 - 1476

SDBMr. Michael Irving – West SussexSNIMr Robert Green – Co. ArmaghMr. Gilbert Wallace – EdinburghSWABMr. Barry Gribble – TorquayLHCMr. Kenneth Cripps - SurreyYOSMr. E. (Ted) Carr – LOMCEMBMr. Rodney Inwood – Newark on Trent

May/July 2011

Yesterday I went to the Lake District to do some walking. I saw some signs for WindermereAir Show but paid no attention to them. Later in the day about 4.45 along with many other daytrippers I was driving east out of Windermere along the dual carraigeway A590 towards theM6, when I saw an unusual shape in the sky flying low following the route of the A590 intowards Windermere. That famous delta wing shape. It was the Vulcan XH559 headingtowards the north of Lake Windermere. I don't think I was the only motorist to slow down, whatan amazing sight. My only regret I was that I wasn't on the fells to watch it fly over the Lake.Next time Vulcan to the Sky send me a begging letter I might even give them some money.Submitted by: Paul Carruthers see picture on back page.

2011Page 21

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RAFPA SALESSubscriptions 2011

Members Renewal £ 12.50

New Members Joining 20111st 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 regular tieNavy blue with single RAFPAcrest motif below knot £ 7.75

T6 RAFPA TieBlack & Red Diagonal Stripeswith RAFPA Crest £ 7.75

T7 RAFPA TieBlack & Red Diagonal StripesNO CREST £ 6.25

Please Note Clip on Ties are 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 the Treasurer.

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.htm

A 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.

Guide Deadline for January 2012Edition of “The Griff” will be 20thNovember 2011. ED. (It can change!)

Make sure the 2012 AGM

is the BEST yet!!

2011Page 22

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WWaallkk DDoowwnnmemory lane

rem

em

be

r

remember

RAF Pershore, 1953 Submitted by: Dave Jones

RAF Tobruk, 1958 Submitted by: Frank Turner RAF Aldergrove, 1958 Gordon Smith & A/D Ranee

Does this bring

back memories

for anyone?

50’s!50’s!

2011Page 23

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Red & White Pay Their Respects

Because of the imminent repatriation of the Lance Corporal Liam Tasker 1stMilitary Working Dog Regiment, Royal Army Veterinary Corps after a service at theRMP Memorial a visit to the the Army Dog Unit (NI) RAVC Memorial was paid,where wreaths were laid by representatives of the RAF Police Association and theRMP Association. A service was then held at the RAF Police Memorial. TheStandard Bearers were Nigel Lacey for the RAFP Association and Gerry Jacksonfor the RMP Association. Submitted by: Mike Lester - See also front page photograph

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SSeepptteemmbbeerr 22001111 IIssssuuee

RAFP Debden Course July Graduation

See article on Page 20