A Visit to RAF Lakenheath
On the 10th of July 2009 52 members and friends from the MHAS set off for a visit to RAF Lakenheath. The weather was glorious and everyone had great expectations for a wonderful day and we were not disappointed.
The society has visited Lakenheath on several occasions but this visit was without doubt the very best. The visit came about after the 2008 Remembrance Service at which, yes you have guessed it, Tarkey approached Lt.Col. Mark Ciero for a visit. The rest, as they say, is history.
Once through the gate we were taken to the Battle of Britain room for coffee and tea and for a rundown on the 48th Fighter Wing history which was given by Billy Harris, historian for the wing. This encounter proved to be of great benefit for the society. Vicky wanted an American flavour for the September meeting and Billy readily agreed to come and talk to us on the 48th FW history plus I guess a lot more.
From here we were given a tour of the base including the domestic site ending up at a large hangar in which were two F-15s and a number of armaments. Here we were met by Lt.Col. Armstrong who split the group in two. One half was given a detailed talk on the F-15 while the other half viewed and listened to a talk on all its armaments. Following this we re-grouped for a group photo by one of the F-15s.
Time for lunch. This was a buffet style meal with a wonderful selection of meats, vegetables, biscuits/cookies, fruit trays and an iced cake with a “Welcome to Martlesham Heath Aviation Society” ‘piped’ on the top in icing. It didn’t last long, it was good.
On then to the Control Tower, Weather room, AFE Main shop and Rapcon where we were divided into four groups to view each in rotation.
Our last port of call was Phoenix Bird Control headed up by Keith Mutton. Keith had a great display of hawks, falcons and a beautiful Eagle Owl on view. We have never before had a demonstration of bird control but, today was a new day and Keith demonstrated the use of one of the hawks, which understood exactly what was expected of him or her and was suitably rewarded for their efforts. I mentioned a wonderful Eagle Owl. I cannot for the life of me remember his name but, on calling his name and asking him to show his wings he stood up proudly and spread them for the cameras. He was then placed on the arms of willing volunteers for a further picture shoot.
Following our visit I wrote to Keith asking if he would come to our Fun Day and give a demonstration; unfortunately he is booked for Centre Parcs on that date but, promised to come next year.
Not once during the day were we left without a guide. On most occasions including lunch we had no fewer than five. They were attentive and always prepared to answer questions if able; this enhanced the day tremendously and nobody went home disappointed.
Sadly the time came for us to depart and we took our leave but not before thanking all our guides and especially Lt.Col. Mark Ciero who took the time and trouble to give us the best day possible.