This month we take a look at the highlights from our annual Outreach Week activities which took place in June to mark Armed Forces Week. We also have an account of a terrifying event that unfolded one night in Basra in 2008, told by retired RAF Warrant Officer Jay Tailor. In our short video you can also hear from a team of inspirational participants of this year's RAFA Rides events and find out why they decided to take on the challenge for the RAF Association. Scroll down to watch, listen and read more.

Basra weapons system

"We felt the impact of the explosion”

Jay Tailor retired from the RAF as Warrant Officer in May 2024 after 36-and-a-half years in service. Jay has been deployed around the world in various administrative positions including in Basra, Iraq from March to July 2008. Read his story here of one night in Basra when the alarm was sounded and he found himself “belt-buckle on the tarmac”.

An outreach day to support the RAF community

To mark Armed Forces Day this year, volunteers, branches, corporate partners, serving RAF personnel, ambassadors and staff hit the phone lines to check on the wellbeing of thousands of people in the RAF community, as part of the RAF Association’s national outreach campaign. We have put together a short video to highlight the impact of this important week at the Association.

Connecting the RAF community through a shared passion

Last month, a record 1,900 cyclists took part in our annual global cycling event, RAFA Rides. Amongst the 550 cyclists taking part at RAFA Rides Kendrew Barracks were 170 of the ‘Polish Wings’ team, who have been taking part since 2022, where they started out as a team of just 12. They decided to take part in RAFA Rides as a way of paying tribute to the Polish fighter pilots from 303 Squadron who served alongside the Royal Air Force during the Second World War and played a pivotal role during the Battle of Britain.

Watch the video to meet Dominic Kosciolowski and find out more about the team.

Other newsletters

  • Why we rode at RAFA Rides 2025

    The RAF Associations’ RAFA Rides is a cycling event like no other. Participation isn't just about the miles covered, it's about the powerful stories behind each pedal, the hearts behind the wheels. Cyclists joined us to honour loved ones, inspire others, and raise awareness of the associations' work for those who have, and still do, serve in the RAF. Scroll down to watch and listen to some of our amazing cyclists and the reasons why they chose to join us and support RAFA Rides 2025.

  • June 2025 Newsletter

    We at the RAF Association believe everyone has something valuable to give back to the RAF community, whether it's a donation, offering skills, or simply some time to lend a compassionate ear. Befriending and supporting those in need isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about showing up. You don’t know how much a small act can make a difference to those in need of a friend. Scroll down to read about our amazing volunteers and how you can make a difference.

  • February 2025 Newsletter

    With the Invictus Games taking place this week, we explore the power of sport within our RAF community. We speak to Invictus Games participants gearing up for the prestigious event, and also hear testimonials from RAFA Rides participants highlighting how the event has improved their wellbeing and brought the community together.