Congratulations go to the 16 members of TG 2-21, El-Alamein Flight; the newest members of the RAF Regiment to have graduated here at RAF Honington today.
Reviewing Officer Colonel Edmund Loughran said:
I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Reviewing Officer for the Trainee Gunners of El Alamein Flight at RAF Honington. It is my great privilege to address both the graduates and their loved ones from the unique position as a member of US Visiting Forces. Witnessing the accomplishments of those honored today brings into focus the invaluable relationship we hold with our host nation partners.
Col Loughran attended the Graduation from neighbouring RAF Mildenhall whereby he is currently Commander of the 752nd Special Operations Group. He directs more than 450 active-duty and civilian Airmen performing missions on the MC-130J Commando II and CV-22 Osprey aircraft and Special Tactics for US Air Force Special Operations in support of United States European Command.
He added:
Each graduate stands on the threshold of a rewarding and extraordinary career. Thus far, they have faced the physical and mental demands of their specialized training and have risen triumphantly to each and every occasion. I have no doubt we will continue to see their selflessness, dedication, and heroism in the years to come.
The Central Band of the RAF provided the music as loved ones were able to watch the parade and join the new graduates in celebration of their achievement. Squadron Commanders and Warrant Officers from RAF Regiment Units receiving graduating Gunners attend the Graduation to meet and welcome their new arrivals and their families after the event. They are on hand to answer any questions or concerns and give an introduction of what to expect on arrival at their new Squadrons.
On graduating from this course, the Leading Aircraftmen are posted to either 1 Sqn RAF Regt here at RAF Honington, 15 Sqn RAF Regt (RAF Marham), 51 Squadron RAF Regt (RAF Lossiemouth) or 63 Squadron RAF Regt (RAF Northolt). They will be trained to such a level that they can immediately commence Mission Specific Training for contingency operations.
Further congratulations go to the Prize Winners:
Frank Sylvester Trophy: LAC Wamboi
To commemorate her late husband’s dedication to the Corps and in particular to the training of young Gunners, his widow presented the Frank Silvester Trophy for award to the best all-round Trainee Gunner of each course.
The RAF Regt Association Trophy for Drill and Deportment: LAC Hammett
This award is made to the Trainee Gunner who has developed an excellent military deportment, assessed both on and off duty, on the parade square and, most importantly during field exercises
WO Ramsey Physical Development Cup: LAC Quainton
This prize is awarded to the Trainee Gunner who achieves the greatest improvement during the physical development course.
LAC Beard Recruits’ Trophy: LAC Reynolds
This trophy is awarded to the Gunner who has been voted by his peers on the Course as the most inspirational and supportive member of the Flight. The recipient of this trophy has provided loyalty, dependability and motivation to those around him during the toughest moments of the training
SAC Luders Champion Shot Trophy: LAC Quainton
This prize is awarded to the Trainee Gunner who has shot consistently well throughout the course. He would also be the student who has shown consistent military awareness, on battle and field-firing exercises, in the selection of his shooting positions and use of cover. He would also be one who has demonstrated consistently a high standard of weapon handling and safety awareness throughout the course
Cpl Bradfield Trophy: Cpl Garwood
The Corporal Bradfield Trophy preserves the example of the past embodied by Corporal Bradfield, in the standards set by the JNCOs of today. It is awarded to the Corporal Instructor who has displayed leadership, motivation and above all else has set an exemplary standard for the recruits to follow.
