Corporal Rory is a Flight Operations Specialist currently deployed to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in support of Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), the world's largest international maritime exercise. Working within the tactical operations centre, he helps prepare aircrew for multinational Poseidon P-8A missions alongside allied partners, supporting briefing, mission preparation and operational coordination across the exercise.
Hear from Rory
“The job is pretty much the same as what we do back home. The main difference is that we’re working alongside Americans, Australians and Canadians instead of just RAF crews.
It’s important because you get to see how other nations do things. But from what I’ve seen so far, it’s actually very similar. We do things in much the same way.
When it comes to operations, having this experience pays off. You move from your home environment into another nation’s headquarters, and the job stays largely the same. There are small differences, but once you’ve learned those, you’re able to slot straight into the team.
We work alongside the Americans back at Lossiemouth during exercises as well, so coming out here reinforces that understanding. We can take that experience home with us, knowing how each other operates.
It’s an incredible experience. If you tell people you’re going to Hawaii for six weeks they immediately think it’s a holiday, but we’re here to work. It’s going to be hard work. At the same time, though, it’s a rare opportunity to experience somewhere like this, so you want to make the most of it because you may never get the chance to come back.
The scenery is incredible. I’m concentrating on driving on the right-hand side of the road, while the passenger gets to enjoy all the views.
I’ve already bought a Hawaiian shirt. Apparently, it’s made in Hawaii – it says so on the label, so that’s good enough for me.”
