Senior Aircraftwoman Geetha Ramesh, an RAF Reservist on No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron, based at RAF Brize Norton, has been at the heart of the COVID-19 crisis.
Geetha was one of many RAF Reservists who was mobilised earlier this year to set up and run COVID-19 mobile testing stations across the UK. Mobilised in April, Geetha spent several weeks being trained by the Army in how to carry out the tests, she then went on to work at various locations across the Thames Valley area.
She said:
“We’ve been at the heart of this crisis – I’ve had to help people who were stressed and scared. You didn’t know if the person in front of you has COVID or not. I have two adult children who didn’t want me to go but they understood my passion and were supportive. I knew my life could be at risk, and this has made me realise how precious life is.”
Senior Aircraftwoman Geetha Ramesh
No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron
At the end of July, Geetha and her colleagues trained civilian contractors to take over the COVID-19 testing. Following this, Geetha returned to 4624 Squadron to carry out her normal duties as a Logistics Mover, working round the clock supporting the fast-paced, dynamic work of the Squadron.
She added:
“When people see me in my civvy clothes they’d never guess what I do, either for the Civil Service or the Military. I am fortunate that I have a day job and volunteering work, which are both exciting.”
Senior Aircraftwoman Geetha Ramesh
No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron
Number 4624 Squadron personnel accept, prepare and load cargo and passengers for worldwide travel on RAF air transport, coalition and charter aircraft. Working both on main bases and in mobile teams, wherever they are in the world, alongside RAF Regulars.
Geetha said:
I’ve been working in public sector for nearly 20 years, I only discovered the Reserves after attending a Civil Service Live Event. I believe in lifelong learning and I wanted a challenge, and to push myself outside my comfort zone. The recruiting Sergeant promised me that the RAF could tick all those boxes, and it has. I always wanted to do something special to give back to society.”
Senior Aircraftwoman Geetha Ramesh
No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron
