I am writing this in the aftermath of another incredibly successful Cosford Air Show. The Air Show was a sell-out, and the crowds were entertained by some very exciting RAF and international displays. The success of the event was testament to the hard work of our whole force that have spent the last 12 months planning it – plans are already underway for the 2026 Air Show! This is also my last edition of the Apprentice. The last 2 years or so has flown by and I cannot believe it is time to move on to my next assignment and hand over to my successor already. I will truly miss RAF Cosford and the wonderful people and families who go the extra mile every day. I am thankful every day for their dedication and professionalism that either train or support the training of the thousands of aviators that pass through our gates each year and I wish you all the very best for the future.

It is a privilege to be taking over as the new Chinook Force Commander and to be writing my first Helicon entry. My family and I are looking forward to moving to Odiham and I look forward to meeting and working with you all. The Chinook Force remains capable, trusted and ready to respond worldwide to crisis and it is an honour to lead it through its next chapter. For 45 years, the Chinook has been in high demand by the UK Government and that shows no sign of changing with such uncertainty in world affairs and the ever-present chance of natural disaster. I can’t promise that there won’t be challenges ahead, but at the heart of what we do, the Chinook Force will continue to lift and support our troops; on time, on target worldwide.

As I sit here and write this foreword, it occurs to me that I am already a quarter of the way through my tour as Station Commander. Time seriously flies by! Over the past 6-months I have got to meet many of the incredible people who work on the Station, their families and friends, and the businesses and individuals who work with us or support us in the local community. While there are many challenges in today’s world, influencing what we can do, cannot do and may be asked to do, asking so much of the ‘stretched’ workforce we have, one thing remains visible – a determination to overcome those challenges and succeed. A desire to make things better. So, thank you for what you all do day-in, day-out. There are tough days, but there are also plenty more good days. I was reminded of that only last week when I joined a large number of ‘Team Leeming’ enjoying an ice cream in glorious sunshine outside of Station Headquarters.