When Chelsie from Okehampton, Devon, first walked into RAF St Mawgan for a 505 Squadron Open Day in 2018, she never imagined how much her life was about to change. From stacking produce in a Waitrose supermarket to working overseas on a deployment in the Falklands, Chelsie’s story is a powerful example of how joining the RAF Reserves can transform not just a career but a life.
Discovering Purpose at RAF St Mawgan
Initially working in retail, Chelsie found joy in the customer-facing role and the camaraderie of a close-knit team. But after spotting an online advert for a 505 Squadron Open Day, curiosity led her to RAF St Mawgan in Cornwall. What she found was a welcoming team and a wide range of trade options. With a background in logistics, she felt drawn to the role of Supply Specialist. “The team sat down with me, explained everything and made me feel like I belonged,” Chelsie recalls.
Training with Flexibility and Support
Chelsie’s route into the Reserves was smooth and structured around her civilian job. Over five weekends at RAF St Mawgan, she completed her initial training learning basic military skills, fieldcraft, navigation and team-based problem-solving. A two-week intensive phase at RAF Halton followed, where Chelsie stepped into a leadership role, leading her cohort in marching drills. What struck her most was the diverse mix of people on the course from teens to those in their 30’s, paramedics to teachers, all united by a shared sense of purpose.
Real Opportunities, Real Impact
Post-training, Chelsie embraced deployment opportunities head-on. She volunteered for a five-month tour to the Falklands, where she thrived in a busy, team-oriented environment. Upon returning to the UK, she then decided to mobilise full-time with the Reserves, taking advantage of the career flexibility it offers. With 505 Squadron, she’s supported NATO's Air Policing in Romania, participated in school talks, helped transfer the Red Arrows between bases, and even worked in the Adventurous Training stores in Bavaria (with some well-earned ski time)! She has also worked at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, RAF Wittering in Peterborough, RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire and is currently working at RAF Waddington, also in Lincolnshire. In her time in the reserves Chelsie has received a Commanding Officer’s Commendation for making substantial savings for the taxpayer whilst at RAF Akrotiri, has been promoted to Corporal and, in 2023, was named RAF Supplier of the Year – a remarkable achievement for someone who had only joined the RAF Reserves five years earlier. Her recent recognition with a Chief of the Air Staff’s Commendation in the 2024 New Year’s Honours List further highlights her outstanding contributions.
Why 505 Squadron and Why Now?
Based at RAF St Mawgan, 505 Squadron is the hub of RAF Reserves activity in the Southwest of England, from Somerset to Western Cornwall. It’s a tight-knit unit with access to adventurous training through the Robson Resilience Centre, offering everything from mountain biking to high ropes courses. Reservists commit to 27 days service a year, 15 of which are normally done at Main Operating Bases with the remainder at monthly training weekends, but the Squadron recognises the pressures of civilian life and provides flexibility for those who need it. The Squadron also plays a vital role in local events; from Remembrance Day parades, Airshows and Armed Forces Days to the Royal Cornwall Show, rooting its members firmly in the Cornish community.
A Message from Chelsie
To anyone considering it just go for it. You’ll build confidence, leadership skills and lifelong friendships. Plus, you’ll make a real difference.
Her journey, from shop floor to international deployments, is a testament to what’s possible with the RAF Reserves, especially at a standout unit like 505 Squadron.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself, meet amazing people, and see what you’re truly capable of, the RAF Reserves at RAF St Mawgan are waiting for you. Like Chelsie, you might discover a whole new world. Find ‘505 Squadron’ on Facebook to find out what they’re up to and to keep an eye on when their next Open Day is. What are you waiting for?
