Centenary Celebrations 02

STATIC DISPLAYS


In the meanwhile, OC 208 Squadron (Wing Commander Chris Kidd) was briefing the Graduation 6-Ship flypast, and the crews walked for their aircraft, which comprised representatives from all of the Hawk era, including a pre-2001 original black colour scheme, the ‘standard’ markings introduced in 2001, a ‘Red Arrow’, the Naval Anniversary tail fin and, of course, the 208 Squadron Centenary Tail Fin that naturally was to be the lead aircraft in the formation.


Whilst the formation was positioning in the ever-deteriorating weather, the visitors (or at least those who would brave the rain and he wind) were entertained by flypasts by representative aircraft form the wider Royal Air Force, and by some static displays. In the hangar were both XX350 – the 100th Anniversary Jet, and XX188, resplendent in the 100th Anniversary Tail Fin. Some guests enjoyed trying on Hawk flying kit in the Squadron Nav Room.

Centenary Celebrations Page 1  2  3  4  5  6  7  8  9  10  11  12  13  14  15  16

…... Continued

Centenary Celebration 01


Dave Southwood and Andy Gent had flown in a Hunter and Meteor respectively to liven up the day for the members of those particular chapters. These were displayed later with XX188 to link some 66 years of Squadron flying history (sadly, there was no Buccaneer….). Two Tornados and a Hawk from IV Squadron flew past and a Typhoon from XI Squadron completed an impressive flypast display.


GRADUATION 6-SHIP FLYPAST AND AIRFIELD ATTACK


With a very strong southerly wind gusting near the limits, the Formation lined up on the short Runway 19 for a stream take-off instead of the usual vic formation line up. Speaking after the event, OC 208 commented on the awful conditions, particularly after the previous day’s weather in which the Squadron had practised had been ‘clear blue’ with light winds! In fact, he was barely able to see the Llyn Peninsula where the aircraft were due to form up and, with an exceptionally strong ‘tightening wind’, the challenge could not have been greater.

Centenary Celebration 03
Home News Membership Chapters History Medals Galleries Contact Us
Home News Membership Chapters History Medals Galleries Contact Us
News Home Newsletter Reunion 100th Anniv