Squadron’s family spirit

Leading Aircraftmen Sam Moore and John Fox contact the families of No. 36 Squadron. Photo by LAC Ben Dempster

By LACW Simone Liebelt

A phone call a week is all it takes to reassure the concerned families of No. 36 Squadron members deployed in the Middle East.

Instead of relying on television reports for information, each family receives a personal phone call from the squadron every week to update them on the welfare of their loved one serving in the Gulf.

Deployment Welfare Officer Flight Lieutenant Samantha Webster initially contacted families to inform of the safe arrival of their loved ones overseas, before calling for volunteers to help with the huge task.

Maintenance personnel Leading Aircraftmen John Fox and Sam Moore quickly answered the call.

“Both of us see 36 Squadron as one large family, and we have to look after one another,” LAC Fox said.

“We believe that if the deployed personnel know that their families are being looked after, then their minds will be at ease and their morale will be higher.”

Calling at least once a week, often in their own time, they inform the families of any new developments, while also checking on their welfare.

“We make sure there are no emergencies we can help with, and generally keep up their spirits.

“The families seem very pleased about the trouble we go to,” LAC Fox said.

“We both feel proud that we can contribute such a small part to such a large cause.”

In addition to the phone calls, families receive regular deployment newsletters, assistance with babysitting and attend weekly family get-togethers which are organised by FLTLT Webster.

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