846 NAVAL AIR SQUADRON COMMENDS PERSONNEL
846 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) ended 2014 on a high after commending personnel for their professionalism and success during the first months of existence at RAF Benson.
The Squadron reformed as part of the Commando Helicopter Force in October 2014 and has already deployed to train in desert environments, hosted a successful safety assurance visit and prepared for deployments in the New Year, all whilst establishing itself at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire.
The Commanding Officer of 846 NAS, Lieutenant Colonel Derek Stafford, addressed his personnel during the informal awards ceremony: “The professionalism and manner in which you have gone about your businesses has been faultless. We have achieved so much in such a short period of time; I commend you all for your work and wish you all a well earned break for the festive period.”
Lt Col Stafford awarded his termly prize to Leading Aircraft Engineering Technician Andrew Pipes for his marked contribution to productivity and operational capability throughout the period. The Commanding Officer of 846 NAS then issued his personal commendation for noteworthy performances that contributed to the operational output of the Squadron to Aircraft Engineering Technician Adam Steventon, Petty Officer Aircraft Engineering Technician Ben Smith and Sergeant Andrew Pickford RAF.
During the ceremony, the Aircraft Certificate of Competence was also awarded to Chief Petty Officer Greg Goldsbrough and Chief Petty Officer Kenneth Elder. The certificate confirms that they have been examined by the Air Engineering Board and, in accordance with the Manual of Naval Air Engineering Training, have been assessed as competent to carry out the duties and responsibilities as a Chief Petty Officer Air Engineering Technician.
Captain Niall Griffin, the Commanding Officer of the Commando Helicopter Force, was also in attendance to present the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal to Petty Officer Thomas for 15 years reckon able Service to the Royal Navy. He also presented Petty Officer Mellor with a ‘Good Show’ award for his outstanding contribution to flight safety in the Fleet Air Arm.
Captain Griffin summed up the end of term gathering to the 846 NAS personnel: “You have achieved a vast amount in such a short time. The spotlight has been on you and you have performed. I echo everything that your Commanding Officer has said and look forward to seeing you refreshed in the New Year.”