RAF Leeming's relationship with the mosque was forged during the illness and subsequent passing of SAC 'Shabz' Saleem in December 2016. SAC Saleem's family visited RAF Leeming last year for the dedication of a plaque and Garden of Remembrance in his honour. Station personnel also spent a day at the mosque to learn more about the Islam faith.
We were honoured to return the hospitality yesterday in a visit which gave mosque elders an insight into SAC Saleem's other great passion in life - the RAF. They visited sections including Air Traffic Control and 90 Signals Unit, and learned how the challenges of military life are supported through community and welfare facilities.
RAF Leeming Station Commander, Group Captain David Arthurton said: "It's a real pleasure to have everyone here today. One of my first acts as Station Commander was going to meet 'Shabz' and getting to know the young man who was a real inspiration to everyone on Station.
"We have had the Saleem family back on Station, and personnel were hosted by the mosque. This is the next step in our relationship - to welcome members of the mosque and show them a little bit of what we do."
Imam Qari Khalid Mehmood said: "It has been wonderful, we have been so enlightened by everything. While the rest of the country sleeps, they are doing their duty."
