Corporal Graham Lawrence joined 4624 Squadron in 2007. He passed his Basic Movements training Course with enthusiasm and ease and joined A Flight, where he immersed himself in all aspects of Sqn life, rapidly gaining a reputation as someone who was always willing to help his colleagues and share his experiences.
In particular, Graham relished any opportunity to fly away ‘on task’ with his regular colleagues from UK Mobile Air Movements Squadron and during his career, covered much of the globe, further establishing an enviable reputation for his calm, positive, can-do attitude and passion to get the job done professionally, no matter how challenging or strenuous the task. One such example of this occurred at RAF Odiham where to the amazement of the resident movements section, his team managed to complete a difficult Dangerous goods outload in just 3 days instead of the expected 5. Their reward – beer and pizzas paid for by their Regular hosts!
Over the years Grahams commitment, enthusiasm, professionalism and leadership qualities saw him successfully advance to Corporal, a rank he held with quiet pride as an essential and valued member of his Flight. In 2020, having served for 13 years on the squadron, a change in his civilian work circumstances provided the opportunity for him to apply for a Full Time Reservist position as a Junior NCO in Ascot Ops, the hub of RAF Air Transport operations. It was no surprise to anyone who knew him that he not only got the job, but excelled within this high-pressure world, a remarkable achievement for someone without Regular service experience.
It was during this time that he received the shocking news that he had contracted cancer – and that it was terminal. In typical Graham fashion he steadfastly refused to let this define him and carried on living life to the full with the love and support of family and friends. He also maintained his link with the Sqn through the Association Annual Dinner, where his incredible positivity and ever present smile was an inspiration to all.
Graham died on 23 June 2024. He was an outstanding Reservist and a true professional, but above all, he was a family man, devoted to Sarah, their 3 children and their grandchildren, he is remembered as the big man with the easy smile, who would help anyone and who always made a difference.