The New Year Honours list has recognised a Moray RAF Airman who was responsible for raising thousands of pounds for charities.
Flight Lieutenant Walter Sutherland, who was inspired to organise the 400-mile ‘Hebridean Challenge’ cycling event that raised thousands for Cancer Research, has been awarded an MBE.
Walter is an RAF Reservist with 2622(Highland) Squadron at the Moray base who secured the backing of cycling friends from throughout Moray to take part in the challenge. He was first inspired to organise the fundraiser when his son, Scott, died of bone cancer when he was just 18.
Earlier this year his achievements were recognised at RAF Lossiemouth when he was named as the station’s ‘fundraiser of the year’.
Flight Lieutenant Sutherland’s MBE tops a host of awards given to RAF Lossiemouth personnel.
The Station Commander at the base, Group Captain Mark Chappell, said: “I am delighted RAF Lossiemouth personnel have been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list for their outstanding service.
“Our personnel continue to provide so much more than is ever asked of them – whether it be in the provision of air power across the world, to their colleagues here on station, or in support of the wider community in Moray.
“Their commitment and dedication is unstinting, which is all the more remarkable considering how busy RAF Lossiemouth has been in 2013, both on operations in Afghanistan and here in Moray as we undergo many changes on the Station.
“These honours and awards add to the thanks that I, the RAF, and the public are happy to give to all of our people for their great efforts.”
The full list of awards to RAF Lossiemouth personnel:
MBE
Flight Lieutenant W Sutherland, RAF Lossiemouth
Deputy Commander Commendation
In conjunction with the New Year’s Honours List 2014, Deputy Commander have awarded a commendation to the under mentioned for meritorious service:
Team Commendation:
Tornado Engineering Flight, RAF Lossiemouth
Joint Helicopter Command Commendation:
In conjunction with the New Year’s Honours List 2014, JHC have awarded a commendation to the under mentioned personnel for meritorious service:
Flight Sergeant Cassidy
Air Officer Commanding Commendation
In conjunction with the New Year’s Honours List 2014, Air Officer Commanding Number 1 Group has awarded their personal commendation to the under mentioned personnel for meritorious service:
Squadron Leader B Parsons
Squadron Leader M Still
Sergeant S Carter
Cpl Y Holland
Mr B Ashby
Mr I Spence