The spring meting of the Tenby and District branch of the Royal Air Force Association took place last week in the function room of the Royal British Legion, Tenby, by kind permission of the chairman and committee. The meeting, which was well attended by members and friends, was enhanced by the visit of two guests, namely Squadron Leader Mark Pope (Royal Air Force Regiment) and Mr. Lindsey Harris, chairman of RAFA, Wales, Midland and South Wales Area. Squadron Leader Pope, whose father is the Rev. Donald Pope (branch chaplain), gave an excellent and comprehensive presentation, which represented his personal views, on the situation in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has recently served in both countries as the Chief of Staff (Second in Command) of the Force Protection Wings responsible for ground defence and security of Basra Air Station, in Iraq and the Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan, from which he is at present on leave. He explained the important roles the Royal Air Force, the Royal Air Force Regiment, the British Army, the Royal Navy, together with our Allies were engaged in and the dangers that lie ahead in the fight to secure democracy and stability in these countries. He reported that despite the difficulties, morale was extremely high, despite casualities, and he mentioned the recent loss of two colleagues who were the victims of a roadside bomb. Both the president and chairman thanked Squadron Leader Pope for his presentation, and everyone wished him good fortune and a safe return to resume his responsibilities. Mr. Lindsey Harris gave a short resume of RAFA activities in the area and following the reading of a citation, presented Flt, Lt. Jack Docherty with a Presidential Certificate, in recognition of his valuable service to the association, and in particular for the 14 years he served as branch welfare officer. A most useful and enlightening afternoon was enjoyed by all, with a special thanks to the honoured guests.
