2010 Reunion (The 95/25 Special)

The C130K inside the WO and Sgts' Mess
This was a special reunion of 30 Squadron 'old' boys as it was the 25th anniversary of the Association's formation and the Sqn's 95th. Proceedings started in the usual way on Friday 16th April in the form of a Meet and Greet in the Hilton Hotel off J4 of the M4. This time Tony Main had organised a fairly cozy room to ourselves - with the all important bar! It was really nice to see 'Chotta' Brown back on his feet following his recent serious illness. He was supported by his daughter and grandson to the meet and greet as well as the evening function on Saturday night.

The surprise for me was the appearance of Hans and Karola Muller (and their cat - long story). Hans was an exchange officer from the German Air Force and was a captain on the Sqn from '82-'85. I flew as his co-pilot on a few trips and remember his briefing style as "...ve vill do zis..." - who was I to argue! Really nice to see him again.

On Saturday we met at HQ 30 Sqn for a quick coffee and biscuits before the AGM. Numerous points were discussed and new members were welcomed: Sqn Ldr Mike Smith, Captain Paul Owen, Nick Nicholls, Mike Barke, Ian Kennedy, Dick Clode, Wg Cdr Paddy King, CO in Muharraq on Beverleys and Bruce Kennish. Bruce hasn't changed a bit - still has that unforgettable laugh and ready smile - and not even gray! Other visitors were Paul and Margaret Kennedy from Alrewas and Sylvia Napier with daughter Gerry Bird - Sylvia's husband Alan Napier sadly passed away in October last year and was one of the Associations founding fathers.

9 former Sqn OCs

Matt Busby updated us on membership and pointed out that a year ago we had 138 fully paid up members and now, following his huge efforts and letter writing skills, we now have 194 of which 20 are brand new crisp ones!

Also, brought up at the meeting was the topic of the second installment of 'Flat Out, the book of Sqn history'. This will also be written by John F Hamlin and Air Britain will once again publish it for us. There are some issues about security and other technicalities discovered by Gp Capt Dom Stamp (About to become the CO of Brize Norton - luckily for us me thinks), but thankfully these can be worked around.

It was a beautiful day, not a cloud in the sky - but no flying was on! Apparently, there was a giant ash cloud in the sky... luckily there just happened to be a C17 sitting on the pan, so a visit was arranged to look around that, as well as a 'J' and a dear old 'K'.

Al Hill's bid won the beautiful wooden Herc carved by Shaun Prior.

By 1630hrs everyone was ready to go back home or hotel to get ready for the evening. The evening kicked off in the WO and Sgts' Mess with drinks and group photographs. One photograph of note taken by Ray Evans was of no less than 9 former Sqn Commanders attending that evening. (For other pictures please see the Gallery). Soon after the photos and chatting, dinner was served and, as usual, the catering staff did us proud. My personal favourite this time however, was the Gin and Tonic Sorbet - it's extraordinary how it got stronger the closer you got to the bottom! After dinner, Tony Main, John Bell and Mike Wilson all gave speeches and awards. Wg Cdr Mike Wilson gave an award to the person on his Sqn that contributed the most during the year. This year it went to Flt Lt Rob Hickinbotham who developed the South Atlantic air-to-air refueling SOPs for the Falklands detachment. Also, Tony Main presented Mrs Sylvia Napier widow of Alan one of the founders, with a tankard - he always supplied the tankards for us. One special award was given to the Sqn's longest serving member! Sarah Cushnahan has been the secretary continuously since 1985! I think it's true to say Sarah really does know what's going on and, even better news, she will be moving to Brize Norton with the Sqn!

Tony Main with his well earned shieldTony with his well deserved Sqn shield.
Finally, John Bell presented a surprised Chairman with a Sqn shield for his outstanding efforts and organisational skills for the Association. I think we all agree that because of Tony's enthusiasm and drive over the last 14 years we can all enjoy our get-togethers and meet friends from yester-year. A sincere thank you from one and all.

Lastly, before retiring to the bar, Tony conducted an 'auction' in order to raise money for RAFA: Two carvings, one of a Herc and the other of a Dakota, carved by Mr Shaun Prior; two paintings by Mark Postlethwaite; a simulator flight in a CRJ200 with Oxford Aviation Academy; and a bottle of scotch. In all £410 was raised, a very commendable effort.

I think it is true to say we are all looking forward to next years reunion - the last at RAF Lyneham! 9 April 2011 - make a note in your diary.

Till then...