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Reservists revisit ‘The Great Escape’

The trip focused on the events that took place at Zagan, Poland in Stalag Luft III, a prisoner of war camp made famous due to ‘The Great Escape’.

Sergeant Phil Doorbar, an Intelligence Reservist based at RAF Waddington went on the trip, he explained: “One of the objectives of staff rides is to draw parallels with historical events and modern day operations and try and see what lessons can be learned.

The memorial at the end of the escape tunnel

“On a personal level, my role is now to teach reservist recruits a variety of subjects, the history of the RAF being one. 

“The RAF has a relatively short history, but one that is full of amazing people and events. There were many new facts and figures I found out on the trip.”

As well as learning more about The Great Escape, the trip also provided an opportunity to engage with the local community.

Phil added: “I really enjoyed visiting a local Polish primary school where the POW’s had sought shelter.

“We did a bit of drill for them, which fascinated the children, and then we had a school meal in their dining hall, which had many models of allied aircraft hanging from the ceiling and murals on the walls.”

Polish Army Honour Guard

The RAF contingent also joined in the town’s annual remembrance event where there was a parade, the laying of wreaths and then the names of escapees were read aloud in a special ceremony.

Concluding, Phil said: “I would definitely recommend any Eagles trip to a Reservist. You get to meet many other ranks and trades you would not normally meet and find out about what they do.

“You get to travel to some amazing historical places and learn all sorts of facts. You get the chance to educate the Regulars on the role of Reservists, as many have never encountered us.”

The Eagles schemes are open to all ranks of the RAF whether they be Regular or Reserve.  Further information can be gained by contacting your nearest RAF Station’s Force Development Squadron.