About Us
History of 2624 Squadron RAuxAF Regiment
No. 2624 (County of Oxford) Squadron RAuxAF Regiment draws a proud lineage from its distinguished WWII predecessor, 624 (Special Duties) Squadron, established on 7 September 1943. During the war, 624 Squadron was a flying squadron integral to the Allied clandestine operations, primarily supporting the Special Operations Executive (SOE).
Initially operating out of Blida, North Africa, the squadron undertook highly sensitive missions, including the airborne delivery of arms, ammunition, and agents to resistance forces in occupied Southern France, Corsica, and Sardinia. These missions were critical in bolstering local resistance efforts.
Later in the war, the squadron relocated to Brindisi, Italy, where it conducted operations throughout the Balkans. This continued until its disbandment on 30 November 1945.
Number 2624 Squadron was stood up at RAF Brize Norton on 1 November 1982 as a Royal Auxiliary Air Force Regiment Field Squadron, tasked with contributing to the defence of RAF Brize Norton. The squadron’s formation was overseen by its first Officer Commanding, Squadron Leader Barry Butler, supported by key personnel including FS (later Warrant Officer, MBE) Pat Sweeney, serving as FS Training and Flight Lieutenant Hugh Caswell, who was the squadron’s Adjutant.
The unit began to take shape in 1983 with its first intake of recruits. This group formed the squadron’s core of NCOs, some of whom brought valuable experience from previous service in the regular armed forces. This set the stage for the squadron’s growth, enabling it to expand into a robust force of approximately 150 gunners, comprised of both male and female personnel.
The mid-1980s marked a pivotal period for the Squadron, as additional recruit intakes facilitated its transformation to better suit its evolving role in ground defence. This expansion was not only about increasing numbers but also ensuring that the unit had the operational capability to meet its new challenges.
The culmination of this growth and training was symbolised through passing-out parades. These ceremonial events served as a rite of passage for new recruits, marking their formal induction into the Squadron. The parades symbolised their transition from trainees to fully integrated members who were on the “trained strength” of the Squadron. This strengthened the Squadron’s operational effectiveness and its readiness for its ground defence task.
During the Cold War, 2624 Squadron played a critical role in safeguarding the United Kingdom’s air defence infrastructure. To maintain operational readiness, the squadron conducted Annual Continuous Training (ACT) at various training areas across the UK, which provided vital preparation for their defensive responsibilities.
The squadron’s activities during field exercises often drew the attention of its Honorary Air Commodore, who would make visits to observe and engage with the personnel. These visits not only underscored the importance of the squadron’s mission but also fostered morale and demonstrated the recognition of their efforts at higher levels of the RAF hierarchy.
During the mid-1980s, the Squadron enhanced its operational capabilities by expanding its annual training into Germany. This development aligned with the strategic priorities of the time and allowed the Squadron to adapt to a more dynamic and versatile role in collaboration with the RAF Germany (RAFG) Harrier Force. The Squadron’s critical mission involved locating and conducting reconnaissance of potential Harrier landing sites. These sites were essential for enabling the Harrier Force’s tactical flexibility, allowing aircraft to operate from dispersed locations in a combat environment. Once suitable sites were identified, the Squadron was tasked with establishing and maintaining a secure defensive perimeter around them, ensuring the operational safety and continuity of Harrier operations.
In 1993, the Squadron welcomed its first Auxiliary Commanding Officer, Squadron Leader Ray Doran AE, a member of the inaugural recruit intake who progressed through the ranks before being commissioned in 1986.
International co-operation and deployment marked the Squadron’s activities in the 1990’s, notably with training exercises in the United States. In 1994 members deployed to Duke Field Auxiliary No.3 in Florida, training alongside the 919th Security Police Squadron, USAFR, with urban operations training at the Mt. Elijah MOUT Centre in Texas. A second deployment for a limited number of Squadron reservists also took place that year as did a third full-scale Squadron deployment in 1998.
In 1996, the Squadron embarked on its first deployment to Bloodhound Camp, situated within the Episkopi Garrison in Cyprus. This marked a significant milestone, as reservists participated in Exercise LION SUN, which involved a series of challenging and dynamic training scenarios. In addition to the field exercises, the deployment included training at the Dhekelia ranges, where the Squadron completed an intensive live-fire range package to hone marksmanship and weapons proficiency. Beyond the tactical aspects, the deployment offered a unique opportunity for cultural and geopolitical awareness, with a visit to the Cypriot capital of Nicosia. Here, personnel observed the UN Buffer Zone, gaining insight into the region’s complex history and the peacekeeping efforts in place.
2624 Squadron, had a notable history of operational deployments in the late 1990s. Members of the squadron served in the Former Yugoslavia in 1997 and Kosovo in 1999, attached to regular Regiment units. Their contributions during these missions, conducted under NATO auspices, were recognised with the award of NATO medals.
In 1999, Warrant Officer Gary Collicutt AE, was honoured with the Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM). This prestigious decoration acknowledges exceptional service in the volunteer reserves. The medal was presented by HRH The Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, at Buckingham Palace, highlighting the significant contribution that personnel make to the UK Reserve Forces.
The dawn of the new millennium marked a shift in the operational framework for reservists, with a greater emphasis on their integration into the sustainment of regular RAF Regiment squadrons. This change reflected the evolving nature of global conflicts and the increasing reliance on reservists for critical operational support.
In 2000, reservists from the Squadron were deployed to Kuwait, where they played a key role in defensive ground operations near the border with Iraq. Their contributions were recognised with the award of the General Service Medal with clasp “Air Operations Iraq”, highlighting their vital role in maintaining security and operational readiness in a volatile region.
After 19 years, on 4 June 2001, the unit transitioned to a new chapter by adopting the number plate of 501 (County of Gloucester) Squadron. With this change, the squadron shifted its focus to a Force Protection role, reflecting broader strategic adjustments within the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.
In 2003, the squadron was mobilised for Op Telic 1, the UK’s contribution to the Iraq War. Between 2003 and 2007, its personnel were deployed to Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and Iraq, attached to regular RAF Regiment units, contributing to the defence and sustainment of air operations in challenging environments.
The squadron’s operational scope continued to grow, with deployments as part of Op Herrick in Afghanistan, reinforcing its reputation as a vital asset in expeditionary and defensive operations.
On 5 April 2013, No. 2624 Squadron was again stood up under its original number plate, restoring its role as a Royal Auxiliary Air Force Regiment Field Squadron. Over its history, 2624 Squadron has integrated a significant number of ex-regular personnel, who have enriched the Squadron with their experiences from Northern Ireland, the Falklands War, and the first Gulf War, ensuring a robust, experienced, and capable Auxiliary force.
The Association Today
2624 Squadron Association was formed at RAF Brize Norton in the summer of 2014 by the then Officer Commanding, Sqn Ldr (now Wg Cdr) Andy Fenton MBE. He envisioned a community that would not only connect current and former members of the squadron but also create a platform for camaraderie and support among veterans.
The overarching concept was to enable all current and former members to come together and foster a profound sense of belonging, share their rich experiences and cherished memories, and to keep Squadron veterans appraised of current unit activities and developments. This initiative aims to reinforce the bonds forged during service and to ensure that the legacy of those who served is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
The formation of the Association was marked by the immediate appointment of a core committee . This committee comprised five key roles: Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and Webmaster. The inaugural Chair, Warrant Officer Mick Silver BEM, drafted the Association’s Constitution. From its inception, the Association was established as a fully constituted body, reflecting its organised and formal approach.
Between 2014 and 2020, the Association experienced consistent growth, as increasing numbers of former squadron members joined its ranks. This period was marked by the rekindling of connections reinforcing the Association’s foundational goal of fostering enduring links between those who served together.
The Association, with over 130 members, offers a vibrant community centered around meaningful social events and commemorative ceremonies. Notably, the annual Christmas gathering has become a celebrated tradition and is attended by spouses and partners of Association members.
The Association’s committee works diligently to organise significant events, such as annual battlefield tours, which have covered the following locations:
2016: Oradour-sur-Glane, France
2019: Bastogne, La Gleize, and Malmedy
2022: The Dams, Colditz, Berlin, Bergen-Belsen, and Arnhem
2023: Normandy, France
2024: The Italian Campaign
Each tour provides a unique opportunity to remember and learn from the past, reflecting on the different theatres and turning points of WWII. In 2025, the emphasis will shift towards WW1 campaigns in France & Flanders as well as exploring the Napoleonic battlefield of Waterloo.
Remembrance parades, which occur locally in Oxfordshire as well as at London’s Cenotaph, are well attended by Association members. Here, the Association joins the RAF Regiment contingent in paying respects to the fallen, alongside the King and other distinguished guests.
In 2024, 6 members also participated as guests of the British Ambassador at the remembrance ceremony in Bucharest, Romania.
Every year, members of the Association participate in an annual visit to Brașov, Romania. This tradition encompasses a blend of activities that promote adventure, and foster community ties.
The trip includes visits to historical locations significant to the region, offering members a deeper appreciation of the area’s cultural and historical heritage. Participants also engage in adventurous training, reflecting the Association’s dynamic spirit and commitment to personal development.
A highlight of the visit is their participation in a well-known, high-profile event hosted in Brașov. This occasion provides an opportunity to strengthen connections with the local population, building international goodwill and representing the Association with pride and respect.
In the summer of 2024, a group from the Association were invited to attend the historic Cderemony of the Keys at the Tower of London – a unique event reinforcing the Association’s commitmment to British tradition.
The 2025 events programme looks rich and varied, offering both commemorative and adventurous activities. Here’s a recap of the planned events:
Annual Battlefield Tour – a deeply immersive experience to learn about significant historical battles.
Summer Ball – a formal and celebratory gathering for members, their partners and guests, perfect for socialising and building camaraderie.
Visit to the RAF Regiment Heritage Centre – an insightful visit to explore the heritage and history of the RAF Regiment.
2624 Squadron Training Weekend – a unique opportunity to witness Squadron training activities.
Fan-Fawr Adventurous Training – a challenging outdoor adventure in Wales, ideal for team-building and physical endurance.
Beamish Living Museum of the North – a historical and cultural experience in County Durham, bringing the past to life in an interactive setting.
London Cenotaph – honouring the fallen with the RAF Regiment National Association contingent at this years commemmorative event.
Pre-Christmas in Iceland – imagine the thrill of visiting the land of fire and ice – Iceland, a country renowned for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and natural beauty. This opportunity offers Association members an unforgettable chance to take in the northern lights while relaxing in an outdoor hot tub with a glass of Prosecco in hand, surrounded by Iceland’s serene and otherworldly environment.
This well-rounded program balances history, adventure, and tradition, making it both engaging and meaningful for participants. It very much sounds like 2025 will be an exciting year!
