Air chief visits RAF Boulmer for briefing on defence operations

RAF Boulmer has welcomed Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston, on his first visit to the station since taking up the post.
By Ian Smith
Published 27th Jan 2020, 11:45 BST
Updated 27th Jan 2020, 17:57 BST
Station Commander RAF Boulmer, Group Captain Cowieson and Station Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Barr, saluting Air Chief Marshal Wigston off station.Station Commander RAF Boulmer, Group Captain Cowieson and Station Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Barr, saluting Air Chief Marshal Wigston off station.
Station Commander RAF Boulmer, Group Captain Cowieson and Station Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Barr, saluting Air Chief Marshal Wigston off station.

ACM Wigston, accompanied by Warrant Officer Jake Alpert, met personnel from across the ranks, receiving updates on operations, support and welfare activities.

They also received a report on ongoing upgrades to the Remote Radar Site at Brizlee Wood where the ‘golf ball’ which has become an iconic landmark on the Northumberland skyline is being replaced.

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Addressing a full ‘townhall’ meeting, ACM Wigston set out his vision for the Next Generation Royal Air Force, and how each member of the RAF has a vital contribution in bringing his vision to life.

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Warrant Officer Alpert speaking with RAF Boulmer Command and Control Centre personnel.Warrant Officer Alpert speaking with RAF Boulmer Command and Control Centre personnel.
Warrant Officer Alpert speaking with RAF Boulmer Command and Control Centre personnel.

In addition, Warrant Officer Alpert presented his Commander’s Coin to Flight Sergeant James Saxton to mark his success in the recent Inter-Service Rowing Championship.

ACM Wigston and WO Alpert also toured the Control and Reporting Centre where RAF Boulmer personnel monitor and secure the skies above the UK, receiving a brief on air defence operations from Squadron Leader David Prutton, Squadron Leader Ollie Fuller and Flight Lieutenant Daniel Rose.

Group Captain ‘Chesh’ Cowieson, station commander of RAF Boulmer, and director battlespace management operations said: “We were delighted to host the Chief of the Air Staff and Chief of the Air Staff’s Warrant Officer and have the opportunity to demonstrate how Boulmer will support their exciting vision for the Next Generation Royal Air Force.”