Jacob VS The Rock
Young Jacob Newson, known as ‘Jacob the Pilot’ because of his love of aviation and ambition to become a RAF pilot, who raises thousands of pounds for the RAF Benevolent Fund (RAFBF), recently visited Gibraltar to complete the Mediterranean Steps (locally known as the Med Steps) that ascend the 426-metre Rock of Gibraltar.
Also taking part were personnel from RAF Gibraltar and No. 2 Gibraltar Air Cadet Squadron. On August 21, 2023, the group started their hike at MOD Gibraltar’s headquarters at HM Dockyard.
Even though this is one of the smaller peaks Jacob has conquered, the conditions were particularly poor, with low visibility and 100% humidity. So far, he has raised over £1,300 for the RAFBF on this challenge.
The Med Steps were built by the British military to allow access to various defensive positions around the southern part of the Rock. The route finishes adjacent to the summit of the Rock of Gibraltar at O’Hara’s Battery.
All personnel taking part from the RAF are stationed at RAF Gibraltar and have volunteered their time for this good cause. Flt Lt Nurse was one of the participants and said, “Walking with Jacob and the Air Cadets on such a steep route was made easier due to their unwavering enthusiasm. When you consider some of the steps were as tall as Jacob, it would have been easy for him to be put off by the route, but he took it all in his stride.”a
If you would also like to sponsor Jacob for this challenge, please visit his Just Giving page.
Top Student
Private Dominic Salmon, a Class 3 Chef in the Junior Ranks Mess, recently completed his introductory training as a chef and received the Best Student award. A 14-week course called “Chef Class 3” included an eight-week kitchen component where he acquired a variety of technical skills like butchery, pastry, vegetables, sauces, and seafood.
Week 4 was test week, during which the chefs demonstrated their knowledge of the material and produced meals to a high standard.
A soldier can be deployed to any unit worldwide to advance in their career when the field phase is finished, upon successful completion of their first training as a Class 3 Chef. They have a Production Apprenticeship to complete within a 2-year timeframe. With several credentials available along the way, from fundamental cooking skills to management degrees, Pte Salmon’s new position as a chef inside the Army presents avenues for him to advance his career.
In addition to career advancement opportunities, Pte Salmon’s new position also offers him the chance to develop valuable leadership skills. As he progresses through his training and apprenticeship, he will have the opportunity to take on supervisory roles and lead a team of fellow soldiers in the kitchen. This will not only enhance his culinary expertise but also prepare him for future leadership positions within the military.
Congratulations, Pte Salmon!
RAF STATION COMMANDER HANDOVER
In mid-August, Wing Commander Nel Doherty handed over command of RAF Gibraltar to Wing Commander Tom Harvey. The ceremony took place outside of RAF Gibraltar’s Station Headquarters with Station and MoD Gibraltar personnel present.
After serving 4 years as Station Commander at the airbase in the British Overseas Territory, Wing Commander Doherty returns to the UK to Standing Joint Command, Aldershot.
During her time in Gibraltar she ensured the critical COVID-19 vaccine flights, has overseen the change of use of Winston Churchill Avenue, supported the West Africa Airbridge and seen the commencement of Programme MARSHALL and the installation of a new air traffic control radar on top of the Rock of Gibraltar.
An air traffic controller, Wing Commander Tom Harvey has arrived from the Ministry of Defence,where he was responsible for UK military activity in Latin America and the Caribbean, including support to 10 of the 14 UK Overseas Territories.
Wing Commander Harvey said, “I am hugely excited to take command of the Unit and lead the Station in continuing to deliver its critical output in support of Gibraltar. I wish to thank Wing Commander Doherty for her unstinting effort over the last 4 years, thanks to her leadership the station is well placed to continue its vital work.”
