PERSONNEL from RAF Kinloss have extra reason to celebrate as they have received accolades as part of the Queen’s 2012 Birthday Honours List.
Individual citations include the man who started the Job Club at Kinloss, and others who have been involved in the drawdown process or who have worked on charitable or community ventures.
A special AOC 2 Group Team Commendation has also been awarded to the 17 personnel who make up the Forward Disposal Section at RAF Kinloss from the Logistic Support Squadron, who have been heavily involved in removing equipment form the base ahead of the arrival of the Army.
They were recognised for efforts over the last two years to manage the removal of all RAF-specific equipment from RAF Kinloss.
Their citation says: "The Section has demonstrated boundless energy for all tasks whilst operating to extremely tight deadlines. They have been outstanding ambassadors for the Service and indeed local community, and have played a pivotal role in the drawdown of RAF Kinloss."
Group Captain JJ Johnston, the Station Commander at RAF Kinloss has welcomed all the special achievements.
"It is fantastic to see that so many of our staff have been recognised for their continuing commitment and professionalism," he said. "I am absolutely delighted but not surprised."
"It is all the more humbling when set against the context of the Drawdown of RAF Kinloss and its subsequent Transition to the Army," he added. "It is perhaps indicative of both the ethos and mindset at RAF Kinloss that both civil servants and military personnel have maintained their focus and continued to support their colleagues, the service and most importantly the local community."
Individuals who were recognised included Flight Lieutenant Ian Tuff who has been recognised for his pivotal position in the start up and running of the Kinloss Skills Partnership (KSP), which was set up after the decision to close RAF Kinloss was announced in 2010.
Master Aircrewman Mark Utting who was commended for his huge contribution on the base, but also for his role in the organising of a summer two-week activity programme ‘Funtazia’ held on the base, which provides a range of activities for local children.
Sergeant Dave Murphy (43) who is the Chief Clerk at RAF Kinloss was rewarded for playing a pivotal role in the management of the Station’s military staff since the announcement that RAF Kinloss was to close.
Dr Sallyanne Hutchison who has been the Civilian Medical Practitioner at RAF Kinloss since 1998 has been nominated for ‘her excellent provision of medical care and clinical service of the highest quality, unflinching support and for the regular encouragement she has consistently provided to personnel from across the rank and file at RAF Kinloss.
also up for awards and despite only being 29, SAC SAC Rachael McCormick and Tina Guthrie have been commended for their mature attitudes and ability in shouldering extra responsibility.
SAC Guthrie has been commended as an excellent personnel administrator and was rewarded for her impressive effort, quick development and ever willingness to shoulder new and additional responsibilities, while SAC Rachael McCormick (29) lead a very busy Section that was fundamental to the success of the Materiel Disposal Programme.
Personnel from Logistics Support Squadron have also been commended. They include supplier Stuart Kidd from Domestic Support Services Clothing and Barrack stores, and Mrs Valerie McFarlane who has been Administration Assistant in the Management Cell since June 2011, and storekeeper, Mr Alex Reynolds.
Full story in this week’s Gazette.
