611 Squadron, the first of the new RAF Reserve squadrons to be formed under Future Reserves 2020, marked another major milestone when it completed its first Annual Camp in Cyprus.
The Squadron, based at RAF Woodvale, Formby, deployed to RAF Akrotiri in September 2015. 40 Reservists spent two weeks embedded in nine separate sections at RAF Akrotiri in support of the station’s output to operations.
For many, it was their first experience of living and working in an operational environment.
Stepping off the aircraft at Akrotiri, the troops encountered their first challenge in operating in an overseas environment; Cyprus was experiencing an unseasonal heatwave. Day-time tempartures were around 35 degrees centigrade, but the intense humidity made it feel closer to 50 degrees and uniforms quickly became drenched.
This underlined the importance of the first day’s heat acclimatisation exercises, as well as undertaking sensible levels of physical training over the course of the exercise.
RAF Akrotiri made the Squadron very welcome. The troops were accomodated in the Cyprus Reception Centre, which was basic, but comfortable. The novelty of sharing 12-man rooms required an adjustment for some – particularly the more senior members of the Squadron, who were a bit concerned about the group impact of their snoring!
Nevertheless, all were bright-eyed and keen for their 0700 start at work. Over the following two weeks, the Reservists quickly settled into theworking routine alongside their Regular counterparts.
On arrival at the respective sections, each trade group was given an induction brief by Akrotiri personnel assigned as mentors. Trainee Reservists were immersed into the work of their trade specialisations, while the more experienced Reservists began providing output immediately.
Intelligence Reservists were exposed to IT systems and sources, and by the end of the first week, the Station’s morning Intelligence Brief was being confidently delivered by 611 Squadron personnel.
The Squadron’s drivers were employed on airfield duties for the duration of the exercise, while the chefs were introduced to the delivery of catering in-flight and in each of the Messes. All of the Squadron’s technicians were fully qualified, so were employed throughout in the maintenance of ground engineering equipment.
The Squadron’s Physical Training Instructors were able to integrate quickly into the Gymnasium routine at Akrotiri. Trainee Reservists were introduced to all aspects of Gym management, while the ex-regulars took over the running of day-to-day activity such as Fitness Testing, as well as introducing some new lessons, the most popular being yoga.
The Squadron’s media team worked closely with the British Forces Broadcasting Service in Cyprus as the Reserves’ employment across RAF Akrotiri generated a lot of media interest.
It was poignant that 611 Squadron’s Annual Camp at RAF Akrotiri and its support to current operations came when the nation was also commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, in which 611 Squadron played a vital part. The commemorations brought into focus the commitment of the RAF Reserves to the whole force.
Many 611 Squadron Reservists were actually volunteers on Annual Camp in September 1939 when war broke out, and they were mobilised there and then. The legacy of those who volunteered then provides a strong motivation for today’s volunteers.
RAF Akrotiri’s Station Commander, Gp Capt Chaz Kennett, said:
“It has been a pleasure to host 611 Squadron and meet the Reservists who represent this newly formed squadron. They have been embedded in many areas around the Station adding valuable input and support to our Regular personnel.”
RAF Akrotiri’s OC Base Support Wing, Wg Cdr S-J Davis, said:
“I have witnessed the diverse range of skills and backgrounds the Reserves contribute to the whole force. It has been a significant opportunity for RAF Akrotiri to offer military familiarization to the new recruits to 611 Squadron and witness their vigour and enthusiasm for service life.”
Commanding Officer of 611 Squadron, Wg Cdr Paul Bennett, said:
“Our new recruits have clearly demonstrated their commitment and professionalism to RAF service just like the generations before them. They have benefitted greatly from witnessing an operational environment and being immersed in every aspect of work and lifestyle that this exercise has facilitated.”
AC Matt Malloy, Reservist Physical Training Instructor, who works for the Prison Service in civilian life, said:
“I enjoy working with other RAF volunteers on 611 Squadron and it has been a great experience to work with the RAF Akrotiri PTIs. Everyone is enthusuastic about their role and has a like-minded approach to work; it is an invigorating experience.”
More information on opportunities to serve with the RAF Reserves can be found at www.raf.mod.uk/recruitment or by calling 0345 606 9069.
