More than just a conference, this year’s No. 2 Group Commanders’ Conference and Awards Dinner brought together leaders from across the Group to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and strengthen the relationships that underpin operational success.
Held at RAF Honington, the conference focused on exploring how No. 2 Group can continue to adapt and prepare for an increasingly complex and contested future. The programme featured a range of speakers from across Defence, NATO and industry. The conference was opened by AOC 2 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Lyle, and provided a valuable opportunity for commanders and senior leaders from across No. 2 Group Air Bases and Global Enablement Forces to connect, exchange experiences and discuss the future direction of the Group.
“The greatest strength of No. 2 Group has always been its people. Bringing leaders together to discuss the path ahead, learn from one another and celebrate success is vitally important. The professionalism, ingenuity and commitment demonstrated across the Group every day gives me great confidence in our ability to deliver, whatever the future may hold.”
Air Vice-Marshal Lyle, Air Officer Commanding No. 2 Group
The celebrations continued into the evening with the No. 2 Group Awards Dinner, where personnel from across the Group were recognised for their outstanding achievements over the past year. The event celebrated excellence, innovation, leadership and dedication, highlighting the extraordinary contribution made by regulars, reservists, civil servants and contractors across the No. 2 Group family.
A particularly poignant moment of the evening was the renaming of the Spirit of 2 Group Award to the Anthony Fleming Spirit of 2 Group Award, in honour of the late Tony Fleming, following his sad passing earlier this year.
Tony was widely known and respected across No. 2 Group and beyond. A tireless advocate for people, teamwork and service, he embodied everything the award was designed to recognise. His enthusiasm, humility, kindness and unwavering commitment to supporting others made him a familiar and much-loved figure throughout the Group. Whether championing people, building connections or quietly helping colleagues behind the scenes, Tony represented the very best of what No. 2 Group stands for.
In a touching tribute, the newly renamed award was presented to Tony’s wife Mandy Fleming in his memory, recognising both his outstanding contribution to the Group and the lasting impact he had on those who had the privilege to work alongside him.
“The awards are about recognising the people who make No. 2 Group what it is. This year, the renaming of the Spirit of 2 Group Award in Tony’s honour reminded us all of the values that matter most; selfless commitment, integrity, professionalism and looking after one another. Tony lived those values every day, and it was fitting that his legacy is now permanently reflected in one of the Group’s most special awards.”
Warrant Officer Stewart, No. 2 Group Command Warrant Officer
As the conference and awards dinner concluded, attendees left with a clearer understanding of the challenges ahead and an appreciation of the people who continue to make No. 2 Group such a unique and successful organisation.
From preparing for tomorrow’s challenges to celebrating today’s achievements, the event was a powerful reminder that No. 2 Group’s greatest asset remains its people.
Award Winners:
The People Award - Individual or team that has made the most significant improvement to morale and / or enhancing the lived experience of the Whole Force.
Awarded to Corporal Reay, RAF Benson. Presented by Matt Wakefield from Serco.
The Charitable Endeavour Award - Individual or team that has delivered a demonstrable impact in cause of charity.
Awarded to Chief Technician Budziszewski from RAF St Mawgan, presented by Jonathan Evans from Plexsys.
Civil Servant of the Year Award - Individual or team within the CS cohort who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to serving the public interest and has made a positive impact on 2Gp activity.
Awarded to Mr Paul Jackson, RAF Honington Voluntary Band. Presented by David Brandin-Lain from Esri.
Contributor of the Year Award - Individual or organisation, from the Whole Force who are considered to have made the most significant contribution to 2Gp output.
Awarded to Mrs Thomas RAF Brize Norton. Presented by Sahaab Payne from Amentum to Stn Cdr RAF Brize Norton on behalf of Mrs Thomas.
Reservist of the Year Award - Individual within the 2Gp Reserves cohort who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to operational effectiveness and readiness for UK Defence.
Awarded to Corporal Vinand, 609 Squadron, RAF Leeming. Presented by Cerys Phipps and Steve Mills from Secure Cloud+ to Sqn Ldr Lovejoy, 609 Sqn on behalf of Cpl Vinand who was unable to make the ceremony.
No.2Gp Award for Innovation – 2Gp Individual or team who demonstrate outstanding innovation and originality that has made a clear difference to 2Gp.
Awarded to Number 2 Counter-UAS Wing – SHADER Detachment, received by Corporal Blair. Presented by Peter Hitchcock from Aquila.
The Spirit of 2 Gp Award - Individual or team who has best demonstrated the shared values of the Gp in delivery of the 2 Gp Mission. The award has been renamed to The Anthony Fleming Spirit of 2 Gp Award.
Awarded to Tony’s wife Mandy Fleming, in memory of Tony, presented by AOC 2 Gp, AVM Lyle.
