A team of 13 personnel from Air Mobility Force (AMF), based at Royal Air Force Brize Norton, recently embarked on Exercise Berlin Airlift.
The aim of this Force Development (FD) event was to visit significant defensive and strategic military sites in the Berlin area, examining leadership, air power, and tactical lessons learned from historical events such as the Bomber Command offensive, the Berlin Airlift, and the Cold War. Under the guidance of the man, the myth, the legend, Master Engineer Tom Lee, Officer Commanding Staff Rides RAF Brize Norton, we engaged in a series of discussions and site visits that not only delved into the historical era but also drew parallels to present-day operations and their relevance to future activities. The itinerary included visits to several iconic locations, each holding historical significance.
Day 1: We began our journey at The Topography of Terror, a site that once housed the Gestapo and SS headquarters during World War II. Here, we explored the dark history of Nazi Germany and its impact on the subsequent events that unfolded in Berlin. Flying Officer Ben Brook presented this stand.
With the WWII Clicker to the next location sounding, we headed up (only 200+ steps) to the Humboldthain Flak Tower, a towering structure that served as a defensive stronghold during World War II. Whilst we caught our breath and took in the views, we conducted a stand on the Flak Tower concept. Flight Lieutenant Thomas Davison presented this stand.
After a lunch stop filled with Curry Wurst and kebabs, the team set off to explore Treptower Park, here we had the opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Soviet War Memorial, which stands as a symbol of victory over fascism. Squadron Leader Nik Bartram presented this stand.
Feeling chilly, we opted for hot drinks and moved on to the Soviet War Memorial in Tiergarten. This memorial pays tribute to the Soviet soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Berlin in 1945. The team reflected on the sacrifices made by these soldiers and the role they played in shaping the outcome of the war. Wing Commander Mark Frazer presented this stand.
Day 2: Up and at them, we headed to catch a train to the Luftwaffe Museum. The museum provided a unique perspective on air power, showcasing the evolution of German aviation throughout history. We had the opportunity to examine the technological advancements made during the war and how they influenced subsequent conflicts. Here we had 3 stands from Flight Lieutenant Touseef Ahmad, Master Engineer Tom Lee and Corporal Steve Ridsdell.
Following a snowy walk, we arrived at the Berlin Commonwealth War Cemetery, where we paid tribute to the fallen soldiers from the Commonwealth who lost their lives during World War II. This visit emphasised the importance of international cooperation and the shared sacrifices made by nations during times of conflict. Squadron Leader Lucy Playle presented this stand with the preparation done by Group Captain Lee Roberts.
Day 3: Trains and buses and the Clicker at the ready; Master Engineer Tom Lee navigated us to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp. This served as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. We all took time to pay our respects to the victims and reflected on the importance of learning from history to prevent such horrors from happening again. Squadron Leader Parry presented this stand.
The final stop on the FD was to the Berlin Wall memorial (see title image above), where we saw the division and subsequent reunification of the city. We discussed the impact of the Cold War and the lessons learned from this period of intense geopolitical tension. Once we arrived back to the hotel, Wing Commander Doug Grove held a stand on ‘British Commanders'-in-Chief Mission to the Soviet Forces in Germany’ ( BRIXMIS) and Air Commodore Dan James concluded the stands with a strategic level discussion on humanitarian aid.
Throughout the FD event, discussions were held (and lead by Master Engineer Tom Lee) to analyse the historical events in question, drawing examples from foreign military forces. These discussions also explored the relevance of these lessons to present-day operations and their implications for future activities.
Exercise Berlin Airlift provided an invaluable opportunity for AMF personnel to gain a deeper understanding of the historical events that shaped Berlin and the lessons learned from them. By examining the past, we aim to enhance our leadership skills, air power strategies, and tactical decision-making abilities, ensuring we are well-prepared for future challenges. Exercise Berlin Airlift serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before and the importance of preserving and learning from history. By examining the past, we are better equipped to face the challenges of the future and uphold the values of the Royal Air Force.
A special mention to Master Engineer Tom “just one more thing” Lee; his enthusiasm, professionalism and exceptional knowledge ensured the seamless execution of the trip; his historical knowledge was simply incredible, and on behalf of AMF, we’d like to thank him for sharing this with us.
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