Reserves mobilised to support COVID-19 response efforts

Based at RAF Brize Norton, 4624 (County of Oxford) Squadron is the only Movements squadron within the Reserves and normally employs its specialist personnel to handle and move freight and passengers worldwide. A busy squadron providing ongoing support to enduring operations, it has stepped outside of its usual role to mobilise 22 Reservists for Operation RESCRIPT within a very short timescale. Initially held on 48 hours stand-by as part of the high-readiness contingency force to support the NHS, 20 personnel have recently assumed responsibility for mobile testing in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire working alongside personnel from 606 Squadron, RAF Benson.

Senior Aircraftman Geetha Ramesh, who works for Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HRMC) as an Intelligence Development Officer, volunteered to be mobilised and is currently deployed as part of one of the numerous Mobile Testing teams working on a daily basis around the three counties. She joined the RAF Reserves in 2017 and Operation RESCRIPT is her first mobilisation.

Geetha said:

As soon as I heard from the Squadron that they were seeking volunteers for COVID-19 operations, I consulted my managers in HMRC, who were very supportive with my intention to assist during the difficult pandemic times.

I also cancelled my pre-booked holiday and organised domestic matters swiftly as I did not want to miss the opportunity to render my services to the nation. I feel satisfied and proud that I am a little drop in the mighty ocean of selfless people helping the country to overcome this disaster.