RAF Brize Norton has received a prestigious award that celebrates the most valuable humanitarian contributions by the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force.
The Firmin Sword of Peace recognised the Station's very positive influence globally in 2021 having made a substantial contribution to humanitarian activities at home and overseas, establishing excellent relations with all the communities it has worked with.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston KCB CBE ADC presented the sword to the Parade Commander, Squadron Leader Ian Rees at a special ceremony.
The award recognises the role RAF Brize Norton played in the Covid-19 pandemic with over 200 of its staff deployed to testing and vaccination centres across the UK.
Most notable was its substantial assistance at short notice in support of Operation PITTING, enabling the recovery of over 15,000 people from Afghanistan.
The start of the parade was marked with a flypast by an Atlas C.1, with personnel marching to the sound of the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment.
Air Mobility Force Commander, Air Commodore John Lyle said: “The success of Operation PITTING in particular highlights the dedication and professionalism of our people and the importance of what Defence delivers for the UK and beyond.
"The effort that has been continually shown across the whole force has been outstanding and the award of the Firmin Sword of Peace is testament to the fantastic work that is undertaken across all areas of the Force and RAF Brize Norton.”
The station also contributed to its local community during 2021. STEM events were held at local schools reaching over 700 students alongside work with the local council and Thames Valley Police to tackle a rise in anti-social behaviour in the surrounding area.
Support for charities by RAF Brize Norton was outstanding in 2021, raising over £100,000 alongside materiel donations.
Station Commander, Group Captain Claire O’Grady said: "Throughout the year, whether it be charity work, community engagement or on operations, our people have gone far and beyond what would be expected of them and I congratulate each and every one for their valued contribution to this award.”
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