North Hampshire based helicopters "front and centre" in effort against Coronavirus
The station commander of RAF Odiham near Basingstoke has been speaking to us about his pride in the base.
Last updated 27th Oct 2020
Recently named 'station of the year' by the RAF Benevolent fund Group Captain Nicholas Knight has much to be proud of.
But he says this year has been especially challenging with normal operational demands and added work created by the pandemic:
"Chinooks have been front and centre of the national effort against Coronavirus. We've conducted life-saving medi-vac missions for those suffering with the pandemic and also we've moved frontline NHS staff across the country. So really, really challenging but also very rewarding.
The Chinook is the 'work horse' of the military carrying troops and being able to lift equipment up to ten tonnes in weight. There are three squadrons based at RAF Odiham and around 2000 personnel.
He continues:
"What I've been thoroughly impressed with is how the people here have adjusted to life under coronavirus, there's been strict adherence to the guidelines but also the sense of community in supporting each other particularly through the challenging times of coronavirus and delivering those operational commitments.
"Chinooks are in high demand whether it be overseas or up and down the country and you'll perhaps recall the support we provided to Whaley Bridge and Doncaster during flood relief last year.
Helicopters and crew from RAF Odiham also operate in the Middle East and West Africa.
The Group Captain continues:
"We provide logistical support to our French colleagues in Mali that means we move people and equipment around a challenging desert landscape, not only is our support held in extremely high regard by the French it also provides great training for our crews.
Back at home the base commander says there's never been a better time to join the military particularly for those in search of job security:
"Something that has been in renewed focus when you look at the state of the national economy and how certain industries have struggled with coronavirus. Chinook force is in high demand and readily deployable and I think is a really, really rewarding career option"
A popular sight at airshows up and down the country the Chinook display team has been grounded this year, instead people have had to do with virtual displays. Group Captain Knight hopes the team will be able to be back to representing the RAF and RAF Odiham next year.