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Flag presentation by US Air Force at Wings Over Carew event

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THE WINGS OVER CAREW event held on August 5, 2023, at Carew Cheriton Airfield was a momentous occasion that brought together representatives from Pembrokeshire County Council and the United States Air Force. The event featured the presentation of the national flag of the United States of America, which had been flown in an F-35A “Lightning II” during a training mission over the United Kingdom.

The Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Tom Tudor attended the event accompanied by Councillor Simon Hancock. The occasion marked a rare honour and privilege for the County Council as they were bestowed with the national flag of the United States of America.

The national flag of the United States was presented by the 492d Fighter Squadron, a distinguished unit from the United States Air Force. The flag significance as it had been flown in an F-35A “Lightning II” during a training mission over the United Kingdom. The gesture of flying the flag over the UK was a tribute to Pembrokeshire County Council, underscoring the close ties between the United States and the local area.

The F-35A “Lightning II” is a state-of-the-art stealth multirole fighter aircraft operated by the United States Air Force. It represents the cutting edge of aviation technology and is known for its versatility, speed, and advanced capabilities.

Local volunteer Keith Hamer highlighted that the day was not only about entertainment but also served a serious purpose, aiming to honour the American soldiers who were stationed locally during the Second World War and valiantly participated in the D-Day landings.

The entertainment during the day started at 10am and included a plethora of activities and displays. The event featured a captivating military vehicle parade, showcasing vintage motorbikes, and enrapturing performances by the Swansea Pipe Band. Among the highlights of the day was the thrilling exhibition by the renowned RAF Falcons parachute display team, demonstrating their aerial expertise and precision.

Furthermore, the event showcased an emergency display by the fire brigade, police, and ambulance service, demonstrating their dedication and preparedness in handling critical situations.

It was unfortunate to learn that the KC-135 aircraft was unable to take off as scheduled for the fly-by due to adverse weather conditions at its location.

The event was a resounding success, celebrating the strong ties between Pembrokeshire County Council and the United States Air Force. The presentation of the national flag of the United States, flown in the F-35A “Lightning II,” honoured and recognised the County Council’s role in fostering robust relations between the United States and the United Kingdom. The family fun day activities, including the thrilling RAF Falcons parachute display, military vehicle parade, and emergency service exhibitions, further added to the festivities and commemorated the sacrifices of American soldiers during the Second World War.

Despite the unfortunate weather affecting the KC-135 aircraft, the event left a lasting impression of camaraderie and gratitude for the shared history between the nations.

Community

Police appeal to find Daniel, 32, from Pembroke Dock

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POLICE are appealing for information to help locate 32-year-old Daniel, who has been reported missing from his home in the Pembroke Dock area.

Daniel is described as being around 6ft 1in tall, with ginger hair and blue eyes. He has infinity tattoos on his arms and is often seen wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses.

He is known to speak with an American accent and has links to both the London and Bristol areas.

Daniel was last known to be driving a blue Ford Ecosport, registration number CU17 MLF.

Anyone who has seen Daniel or has information about his whereabouts is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

Please quote reference: 142 of April 23.

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Community

Paddle Out protest returns to Broad Haven to highlight sewage pollution

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A MAJOR environmental protest is set to take place in Broad Haven (north) on Friday, May 17, as part of a national campaign against sewage pollution in UK waters.

The event, known as the Paddle Out Protest, is being organised by local representatives of the charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) and will serve as the flagship demonstration for Wales this year.

Campaigners are calling on all ocean, river, and lake users to take part in the peaceful protest, which aims to highlight the growing problem of sewage discharges at popular bathing spots across Pembrokeshire.

Local organisers Ella Staden, Kate Beardsmore, Lloyd Nelmes, Kate J, and Kate Evans have planned a full day of activities centred around Broad Haven beach.

The day will begin at 12:00pm with placard-making and creative sessions at Sunshine Italian (now rebranded as Rwts) on the seafront. A community beach clean will follow at 1:30pm.

At 2:30pm, participants will take part in the main event — a mass paddle out into the ocean — led by a member of the national Surfers Against Sewage team.

Before the paddle out, speeches will be given by Sian Richardson, founder of the global Bluetits cold-water swimming movement, and Sue Burton, Pembrokeshire’s Marine Special Area of Conservation Officer.

The day will conclude with an after-party at Rwts starting at 4:00pm. Those who joined the protest will be offered discounts, with live music from 5:00pm, a DJ set from 6:00pm, and food and drink including BBQ, pizza, and local refreshments available throughout the evening.

Ella Staden, SAS regional representative, said: “It’s important that the community comes together to show support for a charity that is fighting extremely hard to protect our oceans and make sure our Blue Flag beaches remain a safe place to surf and bathe.

“A lot of people in Pembrokeshire have been impacted by sewage overspills — whether that’s falling ill, being unable to enjoy water activities, or simply not being able to take our families to the beach.

“We urge every single person who cares about the water to come and get involved, as this is a great opportunity to make it crystal clear to the government that we won’t stand for it anymore.”

More details can be found on Facebook by searching for ‘Paddle Out Protest Broad Haven’.

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Volunteers pass RNLI assessments at Angle Lifeboat Station

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SIX volunteers at Angle RNLI Lifeboat Station have successfully completed key assessments, marking an important milestone in their ongoing training with the charity.

Earlier on Tuesday (Apr 29), crew members Nathen Houston, Anthony Thomas, Marc Blockwell, Bobby Davies and Neil Coles were all signed off on their Tier 2 competencies. The assessment, carried out during live exercise launches, tested their ability to carry out a variety of operational tasks safely and efficiently aboard the station’s lifeboat.

Tiered assessments are a core part of the RNLI’s structured training programme, designed to ensure volunteers are fully prepared to respond to emergencies at sea. Volunteers progress through the tiers as they demonstrate competence in areas such as navigation, boat handling, safety procedures, and teamwork under pressure.

Later the same day, Rhiannon Creese was successfully assessed as a Launch Authority. In this vital role, she will be responsible for authorising the launch of the lifeboat when required — a decision made in close coordination with HM Coastguard and other emergency services.

A spokesperson for Angle RNLI said: “These achievements reflect the hard work and dedication of our volunteers. The training is thorough and challenging, and passing these assessments means they are ready to take on more responsibility during lifeboat operations.”

The RNLI relies on volunteers for the majority of its lifesaving work, with crew and shore-based personnel undergoing extensive training to ensure they are ready for the demands of maritime rescue.

Angle Lifeboat has seen an increase in volunteers since their rescue vessel has been spending time moored in Milford Haven at the Port Authority Jetty.

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