Eat, drink and be merry at 381ECSS

By Flight Lieutenant Bernie Nebenfuhr

Members of 381ECSS get into the spirit of the unit dining-in night.

Photo by FLTLT Bernie Nebenfuhr

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* Nearly 130 people attended the 381ECSS dining-in night. The event included a screening of footage showing unit members in support of the Sea King crash investigation.

NO. 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron recently created a new tradition when it held an inaugural all ranks dining in night.

About 130 members of the squadron attended the event, which combined elements of the traditional mess dinner and a pause for reflection.

CO No. 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron, Wing Commander Scott Winchester, paid tribute to the attendees and those who worked behind the scenes to make the night such a success.

“It was really gratifying to see so many younger members from the squadron at the night,” he said. “We had nearly 130 people there, that’s more than a third of the squadron.

“The staff did a great job in setting up with the cam nets and flags, giving the venue our signature appearance, along with the more traditional aspects as well.”

A spit roast meal and desserts were the culinary highlights and, in the tradition of all mess dinners, the port was passed around for the Loyal Toast.

Officers and senior NCOs explained the origins and significance of a military dining in, the colours and the passing of the port to the younger members.

Later in the evening, a sombre note and a time for reflection was introduced when footage was shown of the No. 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron element operating in Nias. The element was supporting the investigation into the crash there of the Navy Sea King helicopter, Shark 02.

Leading Aircraftwoman Anita Whereat enjoyed the night and the chance to socialise.

“I enjoyed the lighter moments, but also the camaraderie across all ranks and the mingling of personnel from a range of sections,” she said.

“The night was low key enough to enjoy and have a really good time.”

Given the success of the occasion, the staff at No. 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron have considered making it an annual event.

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