English: Photographer - SSgt Mark Nesbit RLC (Army Photographer) - HQ 1(UK) Armd DivTHE FINAL FLIGHT FROM GERMANYSoldiers from 1 AAC receive their operational service medal on returning from Afghanistan.After 20 years the last 1 Regiment Army Air Corps helicopter flight left Gutersloh on Friday bringing to an end a long association in Germany stretching back to 1975 when the regiment first formed up in Lower Saxony.During their time at Gutersloh elements of the Regiment have deployed on 17 different times, the most recent occasions being Op Olympics and Op Herrick 18. It was somewhat fitting therefore that the initial events to mark the cessation of operational flying from Germany were two medal parades. Starting with a mini-heroes parade for the children who all received a medal and a chocolate treat for their bravery and support this was followed by Brigadier Neil Sexton presenting campaign medals to 30 member of 661 Squadron and the Helicopter Handling team which had just returned after a demanding five month tour in Afghanistan.Whilst in theatre Lt Ollie xx advised that the squadron’s role was to provide essential protection to ground troops or convoys, identifying possible improvised explosive devices, firing points and countering insurgent movement as well as moving men and material around Helmand and beyond. In all the squadron flew over 1000 hours and participated in over 40 operations supporting not only UK forces but those from US, Estonian and Georgian across the Helmand province.Brigadier Sexton, Deputy Commander Joint Helicopter Command commended the whole regiment for the work undertaken saying“it was a great tour in a challenging environment and it is fantastic to see so many friends and family here today. Your support is invaluable and enjoy your deserved leave.”Speaking after the parade WO2 Stuart Henry, part of the REME engineers who ensured the airframe were maintained and fixed said that he was very proud that the squadron had attained the highest serviceability rate in theatre. However, he and his wife Cora were equally proud of their son Dexter (4) who had taken part in the mini-heroes parade adding“something like this is extremely important for the children and gives them the opportunity to share the experience of their parents.48-hours after the parade members of the regiment took part in a memorial run around the Gutersloh airfield to commerate Capt Douggie Loose and his crew who were tragically killed in 2004 whilst participating in Ex-Flying Rhino in the Czech Republic. This was followed by a visit by various German organisations who had worked with the regiment over the years.ENDNOTE TO DESKS:MoD release authorised handout images.All images remain crown copyright.Photo credit to read - Staff Sergeant Mark Nesbit RLC (Phot)richardwatt@mediaops.army.mod.ukshanewilkinson@mediaops.army.mod.ukRichard Watt - 07836 515306Shane Wilkinson - 07901 590723