RAF Marham Stops Flying to take a LEAP

RAF Marham stopped flying last Friday, so that Service and Civilian personnel could take part in a Leadership, Ethos and Air Power (LEAP) Day. All personnel across the Station in the ranks of Flight Lieutenant to Senior Aircraftsman/woman were allocated to one of the 52 modules. The aim of the event was to develop leadership skills through practical and cerebral exercises, increase better understanding about Air Power and the RAF’s history and provide dynamic opportunities for team building.

There was a real mix of activities: High/Low ropes, Ultimate Challenge chariot race, 3 FP Wg that included 2 Sqn RAF Regiment stands, gliding and various lectures ranging from a USAF brief to an Academic Air Power lecture. LEAP is designed to build a degree of passion and collective focus. Royal Air Force Marham is home to four GR4 Tornado Squadrons which fly operations over Iraq. In addition, numerous personnel are deployed to other theatres like Afghanistan to support British interests.

The operational tempo is high but the Station Commander, Group Captain Phil Osborn has prioritised his human issues, "I absolutely believe that Force Development is essential; it ensures we focus on what we are as a Service, and not just what we do. It should also give us a far better understanding of context and each other, whilst providing the opportunity to improve both as individuals and as a team; indeed, these elements are at the heart of the outstanding operational credibility that is, more widely, the Tornado GR Force and, from a Marham perspective, Tactical Armament Squadron and 138 EAW. Hence, I was really pleased to see how the LEAP Day fulfilled all these aims and more; the programme really hit the mark and the commitment of all personnel was nothing short of outstanding. Force Development for just under 1,100 personnel has arguably never been so focused and effective".

The weather was kind, activity frenzied at times but people always had a ready smile; we can only wish for more of the same at the next LEAP event on 11 January 2008.



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