DECEMBER 2009 No.178

THE GUILD OF AIR PILOTS AND AIR NAVIGATORS Guild Diary DECEMBER 2009 15th Education and Training Committee Cobham House 3 Aptitude Assessment RAF Cranwell 11 8th General Purposes and Finance Committee Cobham House 11 New Member’s Briefing Cobham House 11 Guild Carol Service St Michael’s Cornhill 11 Christmas Supper The Counting House 18 Guild Closes

The Guild of JANUARY 2010 Air PiloTs And 5 Guild Opens Air nAviGATors 12 5th Technical and Air Safety Committee Cobham House 13 Trophies and Awards Committee Cobham House PATRON : 19 Benevolent Fund Board of Management RAF Club His Royal Highness 21 9th General Purposes and Finance Committee Cobham House The Prince Philip 21 5th Court Meeting Cutlers' Hall Duke of Edinburgh KG KT 21 Court Election Dinner Cutlers’ Hall GRAND MASTER : His Royal Highness FEBRUARY 2010 th The Prince Andrew 26Education and Training Committee Cobham House Duke of York KG KCVO 10 Guild Luncheon Club RAF Club 11 10 th General Purposes and Finance Committee Cobham House MASTER : 25 Aptitude Assessment RAF Cranwell Rear Admiral C H D Cooke-Priest MARCH 2010 CB CVO FRAeS 11 11 th General Purposes and Finance Committee Cobham House 11 6th Court Meeting Cutlers' Hall CLERK : 16 6th Technical and Air Safety Committee Cobham House Paul J Tacon BA FCIS 17 Annual Guild Service St Michael's Cornhill The Guild, founded in 1929, is a Livery 17 Annual General Meeting, Company of the City of London. Installation and Supper Merchant Taylors' Hall (Letters Patent 1956) 18 Lord Mayor's Dinner for Masters Mansion House 19 United Guilds Service St Paul's Cathedral PUBLISHED BY : 19 Lunch with Fan Makers' Company Skinners' Hall The Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators, Cobham House, 9 Warwick Court, Gray’s Inn, London WC1R 5DJ. GUILD VISITS PROGRAMME EDITOR : 26 January Magic Circle, London Group Captain T Eeles BA FRAeS 16 February NATS, Swanwick EMAIL : [email protected] 23 March Naval Firepower and Submarine Museums, Gosport

FUNCTION PHOTOGRAPHY : Please see the Flyers accompanying this and previous editions of Guild Gerald Sharp Photography News or contact Assistant Michael Glover at [email protected] View images and order prints on-line. TELEPHONE: 020 8599 5070 EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.sharpphoto.co.uk

PRINTED BY: Printed Solutions Ltd 01494 478870 Cover Picture: The crews of Chinooks 'Ultimate 21' and 'Ultimate 22', whose gallant actions in rescuing the victims of a devastating car-bomb attack in Except where specifically stated, none of the material in this issue is to be taken as expressing the opinion Afghanistan resulted in the survival of all, despite the lack of trained of the Court of the Guild. medical aid. They were awarded the Hugh Gordon-Burge Memorial Award at EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS : The copy deadline for the February 2010 the Trophies and Awards Banquet; their citation can be found on page 18 of edition of Guild News is 1 January 2010 this issue. Photo courtesy 18 Sqn, RAF Odiham. and should be sent to: The Editor, Guild News, Cobham House, 9 Warwick Court, Gray’s Inn, London WC1R 5DJ.

TELEPHONE : 020 7404 4032 FAX NO: 020 7404 4035 EMAIL : [email protected] 2 WEBSITE : www.gapan.org In this edition of Guild News

Page 4 News Round Up Page 20 International Water Guard Page 21 A View from South Australia Page 22 Australia’s Flying Doctor Service

Page 5 The Master Writes Page 6 Gazette Page 7 The 2009 Trophies and Awards Page 23 Guild Visit to Brooklands Banquet Page 24 Guild Visit to ‘The Blades’

Page 25 Visit to RAF Cottesmore Page 13 Trophies and Awards Citations Page 26 Sir Frederick Page 19 Guild Scholarships and Tymms Bursaries Memorial Lecture

Page 27 Guild Technical News

Page 28 Book Review

3 GUILD LUNCHEON CLUB . On 30th WESTLAND WHIRLWIND FIGHTER FILM GUILD BENEVOLENT FUND PPL September 130 Guild members and their PROJECT. Associate Freeman Jim Munro SCHOLAR'S PROGRESS. Emma D'Souza writes: Two sons of WW2 Squadron Leaders was awarded the Guild Benevolent Fund PPL guests, including the Master, the Master Elect who flew the Westland Whirlwind fighter are Scholarship and is currently doing the course and the Immediate Past Master, attended the collaborating with numerous other at the Henlow Flying Club. Past Master second Guild Luncheon Club event of 2009 in enthusiasts to produce a modern low budget Arthur Thorning reports that she has done the RAF Club. After an excellent meal, Group high quality film about the trailblazing but very well, completing the course to a high Captain Peter Scoffham AFC RAF (ret) almost forgotten Westland Whirlwind twin standard. She has already done her A levels engine single seat fighter. The Whirlwind and after a gap year hopes to study medicine updated the diners on the Airbus A400M was actually the fastest RAF fighter at the and in the longer term combine this with military airlifter programme. His presentation start of WW2 and the only one equipped aviation. outlined the requirement that the A400M is with cannon armament that could have designed to meet; the need for an airlifter troubled Panzer tanks had the Battle of Britain been lost and Hitler's armies arrived that can not only operate 'high and fast' but on our southern shores. With key veteran also 'low and slow', can accept outsized interviews already 'in the can' and 7 minutes heavy loads greater than those that the C130 of unique Pathe cine film discovered, the can take, that has the manoeuverability and team is working flat out with professional surviveability to cope with a hostile help to complete this challenging task in time for the 70th anniversary of the Battle of environment and has a rough strip landing Britain in summer 2010. Around 70% of the and takeoff capability. Given the high profile cost still needs to be raised, so anyone of the programme and the often hostile interested in subscribing is invited criticism it has attracted within the media to request a prospectus from and from certain government circles, Group [email protected] Captain Scoffham set the record straight and answered a number of searching questions with skill, tact and humour. All those MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JACK SMITH attending agreed it was an excellent lead in to Capt Jack Gordon Leslie Smith 1939 - 2009 the evening's Tymms Lecture. A Memorial and Thanksgiving Service for the life of Captain Jack Smith was held at The Parish Church of St. Michael's, Cornhill, on BUCKINGHAM PALACE INVESTITURE. On Wednesday 28th October. It was a fitting 20th October two Guild Members were venue for such a service, with St. Michael's invested with their well earned honours by being the Guild Church, and Jack being such Her Majesty the Queen. The Master, Rear a stalwart member of the Guild for many Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest, was invested years, culminating in his active role as with the CVO for his services as Gentleman Administrator of the Hong Kong Region. Usher to the Queen. Group Captain Timothy The service was attended by Jack's wife, Hewlett, Upper Freeman, was invested with Helen, his two daughters, Jacqui and Juli, the LVO for his services as Head of Royal and other members of his family. In addition, Travel. The photos show the Master representatives of the Fleet Air Arm, where receiving his award from the Queen, and Jack had begun his service career, were Group Captain Hewlett after the ceremony. present, as well as many past colleagues who had known and worked with him in Cathay Pacific Airways. Of course his contribution to Guild affairs over the years was also acknowedged by the presence of many Guild members. A collection was taken for contributions in memory of Jack for Guild Scholarships. After the service the congregation adjourned to ‘Bonds’ in Threadneedle Street, where the opportunity was taken to catch up with old friends and recount some of the many stories that Jack's passing caused many to reflect upon. j

4 The Master writes … COLIN COOKE-PRIEST

attention whilst, as he evenings are drawing in, the BBQ they say, I have the Summer never materialised, but floor. But first I must TSeptember proved to be the driest on crave the indulgence of record. Meantime across the world in our some of you since, Australian region, the elements deluged both unavoidably, they NSW and Queensland in red dust. And as we largely apply to pack our bags for the annual tour, we are Liverymen alone. briefed that last week it was 35 degrees in Once a year at the end QLD and 12 degrees in Bowral, NSW, of September, the birthplace of a certain cricketer of some Livery meets in repute! Something of a sartorial challenge! Guildhall to elect the August and early September were relatively next Lord Mayor. quiet from a Guild perspective but the Whilst certain parts of programme is now back in full swing. Our the ceremony are second gathering of the Guild Lunch Club somewhat drawn out, this year was both well attended and a great it is one of the great success. Liveryman Air Commodore David annual and historical Wilby is now fully into his stride, and occasions. As we are announced to acclaimed satisfaction that one of the largest City next year the programme will return to three Livery Companies , the gatherings a year. ceremony is open to a smaller percentage of No sooner had some of us drawn breath from our membership than this thoroughly enjoyable occasion, than it others, since only was time to step round the corner to the Liverymen can attend. Royal Aeronautical Society for our Sir However I do seriously Frederick Tymms Memorial Lecture. Again encourage those who are entitled to take to the Court and, in particular, the the full details appear elsewhere - suffice it to part, at least once in this great annual acceptance by those aspiring to the Court say that Sir Arnold Wolfendale, former occasion. You would not be disappointed. that they, in seeking to advance the Guild, Astronomer Royal and Dr John Taylor, My next issues are closer to home; election to are also accepting agreement in principle to a inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist the Livery, the composition of the Court and willingness to progress ultimately to the both instructed and entertained us in the progression to Master. I make no apology Mastership. The health and continued extraordinary measure. for returning to these topics at the risk of relevance of all Livery Companies, and Finally, and immediately before we set off for some repetition, since it is clear that, for especially the modern, 'working' Companies the Regions, came the high point of the Guild some of you, there still remains a good deal relies in great measure on a steady flow of year, the Trophies and Awards Banquet. of uncertainty. Firstly, the Livery. In many qualified, but above all enthusiastic Once again the T&A Committee had companies everyone is a Liveryman; but Assistants, ready to take on the challenge. produced a stunning list of worthy recipients since the Corporation of London places a cap - you can judge for yourselves elsewhere - on the maximum number of Liverymen, in a My next and final message will be my overall and I could, of course, use the rest of this large Company such as ours, only a much report for the year. I do not wait until then message eulogising aspects of this great smaller percentage of the membership will to say that it has been the most enormous annual event. Confident that justice will achieve Livery status. This has a plus and a privilege to be your first 'all dark blue' indeed be done in later pages, I will simply minus side - the value of the accolade is Master in the centenary year of naval highlight two actions of extreme generosity; increased but, equally, the challenge to the aviation. By the time this edition hits the the presentation to the Guild of a silver Livery Committee in identifying the right streets, Sue and I will have returned from our model of a Swordfish by Liveryman candidates for election to the Livery becomes antipodean tour and the year will be drawing Commander Bertie Vigrass OBE,VRD,RNR hugely more demanding. In this respect I to a close. In this uncertain world what I and the creation of a unique Centenary acknowledge the splendid work done by the Sword by Past Master Robert Pooley, for Wardens, led by Wally Epton, in creating an write in late October could seem strangely presentation by the Guild to the Fleet Air updated Livery Committee and putting in inappropriate when you read it in December! Arm of the Royal Navy. place the necessary procedures for We can only wish you all a happy and identifying and then progressing appropriate peaceful Christmas, confident that come So much for the social and representational candidates. side of a Master's life. There are three what may, the Guild and its members will features of a modern Livery Company's place Now to the Court. A recent article continue to represent all that is best in the in the City to which I now want to draw your highlighted the responsibilities of Assistants worldwide family of aviation. j 5 Bahrain Remembrance Day YVONNE TRUEMAN MBE Liveryman

Across the miles, Remembrance Day on consisted of visits to the 11th is celebrated the same way and in British Schools, the Bahrain, we were fortunate to have three British Club for Fish Royal Hospital Chelsea Pensioners fly to and Chips - transport Bahrain to experience this ceremony with has been provided us. War Veterans Frederick Bland, Geoffrey courtesy of Bahrain to Crowther and Ian Clark have been take them to all the welcomed here by the British Bahrain functions and a special Poppy Ball laid on than 70 years military service between Business Forum. They have been flown to celebrate the historic Trafalgar victory them. Functions have been arranged at the out especially, and given accommodation and to remember the dead of two world British Embassy plus a visit to the Fl Grand at the Golden Tulip Hotel. Their week wars. These war veterans have more Prix track j Report of the Education and Training Committee meeting held on Tuesday 20th October 2009 DOROTHY POOLEY, CHAIRMAN We were fortunate to host Keith Dyce from candidates, although there may be fewer be resisted by all bodies with an interest in BA who spoke to us on the subject of requests at present in the current general aviation and it is felt strongly that Alternative Training and Qualification recession. Two new tests have been the Guild should also contest the Programme (ATQP) a subject which introduced by the RAF and will be proposals, in line with the views set out in generated much discussion and certainly evaluated in December. the position paper on Pilot Licensing. fulfilled the aim of a cameo in keeping the The outcome of the scholarships awarded The committee will be reviewing the list of committee informed on a new and topical this year has been the most trouble-free in agreed topics from last November's subject. It was explained to the committee history - all candidates have completed meeting in order to decide priorities for that the airline sees many benefits from the their training within the time limits set by production of further position papers. system, including the need for less routine the Guild. Actions have been placed on the authors of checking, more relevant training and Concern has been expressed at the most improvements in proficiency and safety. unsatisfactory proposal put forward by the published papers to ensure that the The aptitude testing at Cranwell continues EASA FCL 008 in an attempt to provide an work schedules identified within the to be taken up by prospective pilot alternative to the IMC rating. This should papers are actually followed up. j Gazette APPROVED BY THE COURT ON 12th NOVEMBER 2009

ADMISSIONS Ronald James DICKIE (GYM) Simon Robert Terence CRIMEAN (HK) As Upper Freeman Emma Lucy D'SOUZA (GYM) Patricia Ann BAILEY Group Captain Simon John BLAKE Andrew Jonathan GRIFFITHS (GYM) Alan FERGUSON Jean Marie Jacques Louis Rene DESJARDINS Christopher John MANN (GYM) Anthony David GREEN Robert John IRWIN (NZ) John Lawrence PARNELL (GYM) Andrew Norris MacMILLEN (HK) Captain Neil JEFFERS Jaspreet SINGH (GYM) Robert METCALFE Gregory Maurice MADDEN (AUS) Mark Brian POULTENEY Air Marshal Iain W McNICOLL ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE COURT David James MONKS James Hamilton REED 12 November 2009 Trevor SIDEBOTTOM Anthony Donald SMITH Ashley Peter WALKER (HK) REGRADE FORFEIT ALL BENEFITS Nicholas WEST To Livery King Sang Billy CHAN (HK) Commander Nicholas Charles Richard Ying Chung Joe FUNG (HK) As Freeman COOKE-PRIEST Mark GREENFIELD Lieutenant Commander Roy William Squadron Leader John William DAVY Dennis William HUME (HK) George BOX Sebastian Robert John POOLEY Iain James MacROBERT (HK) Yvonne Ella VINCENT Harry Gomer MAYHEW (HK) DECEASED Andrew William MURRAY (HK) As Associate Air Commodore Michael Jean-Claude BURTON Bir SINGH (HK) Ross Richard BURLEY (GYM) Les Terrence WILSON (HK) Hannah Jayne CAWTHORNE (GYM) RESIGNATIONS Fred WOO (HK) Courtney CHALLIS (GYM) Peter BARNES T C Alex YAN (HK) Captain Rory David CUNNINGHAM (GYM) Suzanne BROOKES Thomas CURTRESS (GYM) Alan Thomas CAYLESS

6 REWARDING EXCEPTIONAL INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS IN AVIATION THE 2009 TROPHIES AND AWARDS BANQUET ASSISTANT TOM EELES

xceptional achievements in their guests to Guildhall, including Major meeting of the Court in the West Crypt. He international aviation were General Hincke, representing the Deputy clothed fifteen new Liverymen, including Ecelebrated at the 2009 Trophies and Canadian High Commissioner, Rear his son, Commander Nicholas Cooke- Awards Banquet, held at Guildhall, Admiral Charlier, Rear Admiral Fleet Air Priest RN, and the sons of Past Master London, on 29 October. Twenty one Arm, Mr G Clarke, Prime Warden John Hutchinson and Assistant Keith awards recognising individuals or crews Shipwright, Mr R Purdey, Master Warburton, thus concluding this formal for their exceptional achievements were Gunmaker, Dr S Hammerton, Master occasion as very much a family event . He presented by The Master and Major Coachmaker, Mr M Marshall, President Air also presented six Master Air Pilot General Joe Hincke, Commander and League, representatives from the Guild's Certificates and two Master Air Navigator Defence Advisor, Canadian High Certificates to Guild members attending Affiliated Units and members from the Commission, and the Master, with the Banquet. After the Court meeting Guild Guild's four established overseas Regions. standing ovations reserved for the most members and their guests enjoyed a He gave a special welcome for members of prestigious and bravest of the recipients. Champagne Reception in the Old Library the newly formed Canadian Region who Details of all the recipients and their as uniformed personnel of the London were attending the Banquet in their own awards follow on pages 13 to 19. The Wing of the Air Training Corps set about right for the first time. Master, Rear Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest, their organisational duties with customary welcomed the 664 Guild members and Earlier, the Master had presided at a efficiency. A Guard of Honour was

The Master with the newly clothed Liverymen.

7 provided by the Pikemen and Musketeers Trophies and Awards, in his address, the Bertie, thank you from us all for this of the Honourable Artillery Company. Master, after welcoming all the guests, hugely generous gesture which will serve congratulated all the award winners. He The Banquet was served in the to remind us for generations to come of an reminded his audience of the magnificent medieval Great Hall, the only iconic aircraft in the aviation story'. He City of London chamber large enough to extraordinary catalogue of bravery, professional skill and human endeavour also thanked the brass quintet of the accommodate more than 600 diners. With that had been demonstrated across the Honourable Artillery Company for Guild members and their guests already at field of aviation in all parts of the world. providing the musical entertainment for their tables, the Swordbearer, Sebastian 'What is perhaps a salutary thought' he Pooley, and Ian Low, who stood in for the the evening, and the staff of the Guild's remarked, 'is that for every winner, in Guild's Beadle at very short notice owing office, the Learned Clerk, Ruth, Pat and practically every category, there were to a bereavment, led the Master's party Ulka for the huge task of putting all the others almost equally deserving'. He also into the Hall to the customary slow paid tribute to the Trophy and Awards arrangements in place, and Mr Ian Low, handclap. The Guild's Honorary Chaplain, Committee, who scoured the world each the Beadle, who had stood in so admirably Rev Dr Peter Mullen, clothed as a new year to try and ensure that no contribution at such short notice. Liveryman that very evening, said Grace, to the aviation tapestry is missed and no leaving the collective singing of the The Master then turned to the subject of individual overlooked. He mentioned in traditional sung Grace to follow the meal. particular its Chairman, Past Master John Centenaries, a number having been Guests were entertained during their meal Hutchinson, who had chaired the team recorded this year. In addition to this by the brass quintet of the band of the with great skill for over a decade and was being a special year for the Fleet Air Arm, Honourable Artillery Company, who now standing down. it was also a special year for the Royal included a lively interpretation of the Post He continued by making a very public Australian Navy, as in 1909 Australia Horn Gallop in their selection of music. 'thank you' on behalf of the Guild. ' Earlier The banquet was brought to a conclusion decided to acquire a modern ocean going this evening I had the privilege of with the ceremony of the Loving Cup, fleet, an example subsequently followed accepting, on your behalf, a silver model which was correctly performed by all by other members of the Empire and of a Swordfish presented to the Guild by diners. Liveryman Commander Bertie Vigrass to Commonwealth who have routinely sailed After the presentation of the twenty one mark the Centenary of Naval Aviation. and flown together in peace and war. He

The Master with the Master Air Pilot and Master Air Navigator recipients.

8 Liveryman Commander Bertie Vigrass and Mrs Vigrass presents the silver Swordfish to the Master.

Chief of Air Staff chats to the members of the Air Training Corps.

9 described the early days of naval aviation, the Japanese, that they built a memorial in of a century of outstanding courage, when in 1909 the Admiralty commissioned his memory, and the 'Few within the Few', professional skill and technical the 'Mayfly', His Majesty's Airship No 1. those 56 Fleet Air Arm pilots and two innovation. After presenting the sword he Over 200 naval officers volunteered for the Naval Air Squadrons who fought in the asked all to rise and drink the Toast 'To four places on the first training course for Battle of Britain. our award winners and our guests'. pilots, who were informed that not only The Master concluded by saying that from In reply, Major General Hincke proposed would they have to pay for any damage to their earliest days the City Livery the traditional Toast: 'The Guild of Air their aircraft (a very likely event in those Companies had existed to set and Pilots and Air Navigators, may it flourish days), but also that they would have to maintain the highest standards in their root and branch forever.' j remain unmarried and forego any chance respective fields. The modern Companies of commanding a ship, the ultimate had come into being and continue to be sanction for any seaman officer! He created for exactly the same reasons. 'A commented that ' It is in the recognition of founding objective of our own Guild was the conviction, tenacity and zeal of the to establish and maintain the highest first naval aviators, together with their standards of air safety, through the determined belief in the potential of air promotion of good airmanship, high power from the sea, that the real quality training and professional importance of this Centenary lies; it is the excellence; all of which have been amply recognition of a century of outstanding demonstrated in our award winners courage, professional skill and technical tonight.' For this reason the Guild had The Guild is grateful to Flight Training innovation, attributes that in turn became commissioned an additional and unique Europe for its support towards the the hallmark of the profession of aviation award, the Guild Centenary Sword, funding of this year's Trophies and Awards generally, that is the real cause for created through the generosity of Past Banquet. celebration.' By way of illustration of Master Robert Pooley. The Master invited Photographs taken at Guildhall can be outstanding courage he mentioned the last Rear Admiral Simon Charlier, Chief of Staff viewed and ordered online direct from of the Fleet Air Arm's four VC winners, (Aviation) and Rear Admiral Fleet Air Arm Gerald Sharp Photography. Visit Lieutenant 'Hammie' Gray, appropriately a to accept the Guild Centenary Sword on www.sharpphoto.co.uk or telephone them Canadian, who so impressed his enemies, behalf of the Fleet Air Arm, in recognition on 020 8599 5070.

The Master's party prepares to process into the Great Hall.

10 The Loving Cup starts its journey.

Rear Admiral Simon Charlier accepts the Guild Centeneray Sword on behalf of the Fleet Air Arm.

11 Major General Joe Hincke proposes the Toast.

Guests enjoy a Stirrup Cup before departing.

12 THE 2009 TROPHIES AND AWARDS CITATIONS

Afghanistan and Iraq. awarded the Sir Alan Cobham Memorial wenty one awards recognising Another test flying programme, led by Iain, Award. individuals and crews for their also included that of the TP400 T6 turbo The John Landymore Trophy exceptional achievements were T prop engine which will eventually be fitted Awarded to the outstanding candidate of that presented by The Master and Major General to the Airbus A400M transport aircraft. Iain's year for a Guild PPL Scholarship. Hincke, Commander and Defence Advisor, role in this demanding and important Canadian High Commision, at this year's programme for the European Aerospace Trophies and Awards Banquet, at Guildhall, Industry has been pivotal and his skills and London on 29th October. Three of the expertise have assisted both Airbus and the awards were for for outstanding courage or engine manufacturers to make important devotion to duty in the air: the Grand changes to their programmes and permitted Master's Commendation, the Hugh Gordon- the engine and modified aircraft to make the Burge Memorial Award and the Prince Philip first highly successful test flight in December Helicopter Rescue Award. Four awards 2008. recognised contributions to flight operations: Very highly regarded in the test pilot the Sir Barnes Wallis Medal, the Master's community, lain Young is, without doubt, Commendation (awarded twice), the one of the finest test pilots in the UK and, in Brackley Memorial Trophy and the Johnston recognition of his outstanding contribution Memorial Trophy. There was one award in Courtney Challis. in advancing the art of science of aviation the flight testing category, the Derry and Courtney Challis won this year's Cadogan throughout the last 30 years, is a worthy Richards Memorial Medal, and one award in Scholarship and completed her PPL training recipient of the Derry & Richards Memorial the Safety and Survival category, the Sir at Skytrek flying school at Rochester. Medal. James Martin Award. There were four From the initial impression that she made awards in the field of training: the Sir Alan TRAINING upon the scholarship selection committee to Cobham Memorial Award, the Central Flying Sir Alan Cobham Memorial Award the approach she adopted during her flying School Guild Trophy, the Pike Trophy and the Awarded to the most meritorious student training, Courtney was exemplary. Her John Landymore Trophy. The Guild Award of pilot graduating from a college or a school enthusiasm and determination to achieve her Merit was presented and the contribution of of civil or military aviation and nominated goal was evident throughout her training the aviation press was recognised by the by the Principal or Commanding Officer. and, as a result of her personal qualities and Guild's Award for Aviation Journalism. The professional, competent approach to flying achievements of individuals in the Regions demonstrated during her training for a PPL, was recognised by three awards: the Grand Courtney Challis is awarded the John Master's Australian Medal, the Australian Bi- Landymore Trophy for 2009. Centennial Medal, and the Jean Batten Memorial Award which will be presented in New Zealand during the Master's Tour. The The Central Flying School Guild Trophy Master's Medal was awarded twice and an Awarded to an individual, group or extra award for 2009, the Master's Special organisation that has made an outstanding Commendation, was presented. Shortened contribution toward the achievement of citations for these awards follow below, the excellence in the delivery of military flying full citations can be found on the Guild's training or instructional standards. website www.gapan.org. FLIGHT TEST Vincent Dusseau The Derry and Richards Memorial Medal Vincent Dusseau completed training at Awarded to a test pilot who has made an Oxford Aviation Academy (OAA) as a NetJets outstanding contribution in advancing the sponsored First Officer trainee in October art and science of aviation. 2008. As well as being a model student Vincent was an excellent team player who was always prepared to play a full and active part Hawk Synthetic Training Facility Staff, RAF at OAA. He was totally dedicated and Valley, (BAESystems(HST)Ltd). determined to achieve success but was equally unselfishly committed to supporting The staff of the Hawk Synthetic Training and helping his peers. His constant thirst for Facility at RAF Valley have achieved a aviation knowledge quickly gave him remarkable and measurable improvement in understanding which he used regularly in the delivery of flying training to the students turn to explain the fundamentals to other of No 4 Flying Training School, increasing students. student performance during live flying at no Iain Young MBE Bsc FRAeS additional cost in flying or simulator training Vincent displayed a rarely seen but hours. Iain Young started his flying career in the infectious enthusiasm for aviation and his RAF and has been a test pilot for many years. ground exam results, flight test and multi- This remarkable achievement is the result of Currently, he leads a department of 14 pilots crew performance were exceptional and he improved delivery of simulator training at Marshalls Aerospace who are engaged in a showed abundant command ability. through two innovations: pre-recorded wide variety of flying activities, including demonstrations in the teaching of air Vincent is an intelligent, thoughtful and development test flying and, during 2008, combat; and the use of the simulator to inquisitive pilot with a reassuring much of that work was centred upon urgent introduce the basics of Close Air Support. personality, who remains calm under operational requirements in order to support With the benefit of these unique learning pressure. As a result of his efforts and experiences, students are able to analyse and modification programmes for aircraft achievements at OAA, Vincent Dusseau is assess far more effectively in the air and also required for operations in and over

13 to develop enhanced decision-making maintained the highest standards of private abilities. Subsequent sorties in the real flying instruction at the Wycombe Air Centre aircraft now have exemplary success rates. and is accordingly awarded the Pike Trophy. This facility is playing a key role in improving FLIGHT OPERATIONS student performance in the tactical environment and, as a result of this The Sir Barnes Wallis Medal outstanding contribution toward the Awarded in recognition of an exceptional and achievement of excellence in the delivery of innovative contribution to aviation. flying training and instructional standards, the staff of the BAe Systems Hawk Synthetic Training Facility at RAF Valley, and represented by Peter Boothroyd, are awarded Squadron Leader Alistair Pinner MBE Bsc the Central Flying School Guild Trophy. RAF. Squadron Leader Al Pinner has flown over The Pike Trophy 4,300 flying hours during a career dating Awarded to an individual who has made an back to 1982. He has served tours on the outstanding contribution to the maintenance Harrier and the Canadian F18 and has flown of high standards of civil flying instruction more than 100 operational missions in and safety, taking into account working Northern Iraq, Bosnia and Kosovo. conditions and opportunities. As CO of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, he has been responsible for the operation and maintenance of a fleet of 12 vintage aircraft and over 60 engineers, support staff and aircrew. It is down to his superb leadership, exceptional instructional ability and exemplary conduct that the Flight is held in such high esteem within both the military and civilian aviation communities. However, Sqn Ldr Pinner's greatest Timothy Prince OBE FRAeS. contribution to aviation has been his determination to remember those that have Tim Prince started his career and lifelong served before him. He was personally involvement in aviation in 1969 working as responsible for the success of several an Air Traffic Controller. activities such as the deployment of the In 1971, as an aviation and event Dakota and Spitfire to support the 60th management consultant, he started an 'Air Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift and the Tattoo' in Essex, which then became the poignant Lancaster flypast at Derwent 'International Air Tattoo' and moved venue to Reservoir to commemorate the 65th Greenham Common. Tim has since been Anniversary of the Dams Raid. involved in the organisation of many other Sqn Ldr Pinner has continually sought airshows and events - too numerable to list opportunities to promote aviation and has now, however, the International Air Tattoo - raised over £200,000 for a number of now the 'Royal International Air Tattoo' Captain Richard Bird FRAeS. charities including the Flying Scholarships for (RIAT) - is the most famous. Captain Richard ('Dickie') Bird has spent 50 the Disabled and the Bomber Command Tim's innovative approach and masterful years in aviation, and has over 35 years Memorial. In recognition of his outstanding skill in the management of a large team has contribution to aviation, Sqn Ldr Al Pinner is experience as a flying instructor and led to the development of the current RIAT awarded The Master's Commendation. examiner on light aeroplanes, motor gliders from its humble beginnings to the world's and gliders. largest airshow. As Director of RIAT, Tim In 1980, Dickie became CFI at Wycombe Air organises and manages a team of 4,000 Centre, but then in 1989, joined British Air volunteers to arrange the annual airshow at Ferries and flew Viscounts as a line pilot for RAF Fairford. As a military show that attracts over 35 participating nations, it is very six years before re-joining the Wycombe Air attractive to industry and, last year, there Centre as CFI, an appointment he has held were 25 air force chiefs present. RIAT is truly ever since. the pre-eminent military aviation showpiece Throughout his varied flying career Dickie in the world. has amassed nearly 16,000 flying hours, It was Tim's foresight, remarkable skill and including over 10,000 instructional hours in unwavering capacity to mastermind the light aeroplanes. His firm but sympathetic whole operation that has made RIAT what it approach and high flying standards, both as is today. Tim's name is synonymous with an instructor and examiner, have ensured an RIAT and his is a truly exceptional and excellent level of flight safety and flying innovative contribution to aviation, for which standards at the Wycombe Air Centre. His Timothy Prince is recognised and awarded refreshing outlook is that private flying the Sir Barnes Wallis Medal. should be fun - a point that is sometimes forgotten in the increasingly complex world The Master's Commendation of technical development and regulation. Awarded at the discretion of the Master for Captain Roland James DSM (Oman) By his personal example and leadership commendable achievement in any sector of BA(Hons). Captain Dickie Bird has consistently aviation. Awarded twice.

14 Captain 'Rolie' James started his flying career many of 99 Sqn's operating and training accordingly awarded the Johnston Memorial with the RAF in 1969, where he eventually procedures, many of which were innovative Trophy. became the head of the RAF examining unit. and challenged previously conceived ideas in Since leaving the armed forces in 1986, he the RAF's Air Transport community. GUILD AWARD has worked in practically every field of the His groundbreaking and visionary approach on-shore helicopter industry. His strongly led to a step change in the UK's strategic The Guild Award of Merit held belief, which he advances through both airlift capability. He has been highly Awarded for meritorious service to the Guild. word and deed, is that all helicopter pilots influential in developing operational and operators must recognise and operate to capability, planning and proving procedures the highest possible professional standards of for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan from safety and airworthiness in order for the the very outset. Indeed, he has played a key rotary community to flourish and grow as an role in every operational deployment of the important part of the aviation industry. aircraft. Rolie James has personified that belief for An icon within the RAF's Air Transport and over 40 years and for that reason alone he is Air to Air Refuelling community, Sqn Ldr held in the highest regard by the on-shore Hewitt is one of the most able pilots Brize helicopter community. He is an advocate and Norton has seen and he is regularly consulted evangelist for driving the industry forward by Service decision makers. For his unique through continuous professional and outstanding contribution to aviation for development and represents the very best over three decades, Sqn Ldr Hewitt is Captain Richard Felix LVO FRAeS. that the industry has to offer. awarded the Brackley Memorial Trophy. Capt Dick Felix started his flying career in the Throughout his career, Captain 'Rolie' James RAF, where, during his military career, he has developed and maintained the highest The Johnston Memorial Trophy was personal pilot to HRH the Duke of personal and professional standards that have Edinburgh, and also commanded both 32 Sqn Awarded to an individual, a complete aircraft made him something of a legend within the at RAF Northolt on VIP duties and the Air crew or an organisation, for an outstanding aviation industry. For his immense Transport Examining Unit before retirement performance of airmanship, for the operation contribution to the advancement of from the RAF in 1982. of airborne systems or for the development of helicopter aviation, Captain Rolie James is air navigation techniques and equipment. After a further 20 years in commercial awarded The Master's Commendation. aviation, Dick now pursues his love of flying as a part owner of a 1936 DH Hornet Moth The Brackley Memorial Trophy and this enables him to be a very active member of the Guild Flying Club. In over Awarded to an individual, a complete aircraft half a century of flying Dick has now crew, or an organisation, for an act or acts of amassed some 22,500 hours. outstanding flying skill, which have contributed to the operational development Joining the Guild in 1991, Dick very quickly of air transport or transport aircraft or new became deeply involved in Guild activities. techniques in air transport flying. He was elected Warden in 2000 and Master in 2004. He has served on the E&TC for virtually all his time in the Guild and was 5 (AC) Squadron RAF. Chairman for three years from 1997. He has been involved with the Pilot Aptitude scheme No 5 (AC) Squadron reformed at RAF from the start in 1995 and also the Flying Waddington in Apr 2004 to prepare to receive Scholarship sub-committee of which he is the Airborne Stand-Off Radar system currently Chairman. As a Trustee of all three (ASTOR). Manned by RAF and Army Guild charitable trusts and a director of 9 personnel, the ASTOR system comprises Warwick Court Ltd, he is one of the most five Sentinel aircraft and eight active of Guild members. Living in Operational/Tactical Ground Stations, Gloucestershire leads to considerable time providing surveillance, intelligence and target and expense in travelling to the many Guild acquisition information to Land Forces. meetings, which is evidence of the dedication In Nov 2008, the Sqn deployed the first two he applies to Guild affairs. aircraft, two crews and one Operational For his long and dedicated service to aviation Ground Station in support of 'Op Herrick' in and meritorious service to the Guild, Capt Afghanistan. ASTOR was employed in a wide Dick Felix is awarded the Guild Award of range of tasks spanning both the operational Merit. and tactical levels of warfare and greatly REGIONAL AWARDS enhanced the intelligence provided to ground The Grand Master's Australian Medal forces. Awarded to an individual, a group or an Through determination and strong organisation involved in any branch of leadership, 5 Sqn has developed the ASTOR aviation in the Australian Region or to Australian nationals abroad, who or which Squadron Leader Keith Hewitt MBE RAF. system at such a pace that the Sqn will declare four Combat Ready crews some ten has made a meritorious contribution to any Sqn Ldr Hewitt has contributed selflessly to aviation activity. months ahead of schedule. 5 Sqn has aviation for 31 years. He has accrued 11,300 School of Air Warfare RAAF. hours in a variety of roles and types from become a key component in the intelligence Through a combination of exemplary maritime reconnaissance on the Vulcan, to support matrix to the ground commander. leadership, commitment and consultation the air to air refuelling on the VC10 and strategic This remarkable achievement has been made School of Air Warfare RAAF has successfully airlift on the C17. in less than two years since first aircraft transitioned from 'Navigator' to 'Air Combat delivery and is highly deserving of Sqn Ldr Hewitt began flying the C17 aircraft Officer' training in a very short timeframe appropriate recognition and 5 (AC) Sqn is in 2000 and was instrumental in developing without compromising student throughput or

15 graduation standards. the largest operation of its type in the world. SAFETY AND SURVIVAL The School of Air Warfare's dedication in the Peter's contribution to Australian aviation is The Sir James Martin Award extensive and includes several milestone development and delivery of Air Combat Awarded to an individual, a group, a team or achievements for his country. Officer training has exemplified its motto of organisation, which has made an 'teach to fight' and this has been Peter qualified as a licensed aircraft outstanding, original and practical accomplished in an environment of dynamic maintenance engineer with the Lloyd contribution leading to the safer operation of change and resource constraints. Helicopter Group in 1986, and moved in aircraft or the survival of aircrew or 1995 to National Jet Systems Group as Head passengers. of Engineering and Maintenance, Sir James Martin Award, Flt Lt Rickard Flight Lieutenant Emily Rickards RAF. subsequently becoming Group Commercial Director. In 2005 he was appointed CEO of Flt Lt Rickards is a Harrier pilot and Survive, the newly created Cobham Flight Operations Evade, Resist and Escape Officer at IV(AC) and Services Australia. His career has been Sqn where, for the last 2 years, she has dynamic, far-reaching and very influential tirelessly campaigned for improvements to for Australian aviation and he is accordingly pilot survival equipment in Afghanistan. awarded the Australian Bi-Centennial School of Air Since the end of the Cold War, Harrier crew Award. Warfare RAAF. survival equipment has been inadequate for AVIATION MEDIA contemporary operational theatres and, despite a number of attempts to improve the The School of Air Warfare's achievements The Guild Award for Aviation Journalism are of the highest order, with the situation, changes had not been realised. Awarded to an individual journalist, professionalism and proficiency of the unit Despite the equivocations of a number of publication or organisation for an greatly enhancing the reputation of the Royal external agencies, Flt Lt Rickards outstanding contribution to the promotion of Australian Air Force and the Australian successfully reached a consensus between public awareness of aviation in general or of Defence Force. For its meritorious differing views and produced a new scale of any important aspect of aviation activity. contribution to aviation through its equipment which was subsequently outstanding implementation of the Air endorsed by HQ 1 Gp and is now embodied Combat Officer category and the in the Harrier Personal Survival Pack as used development and delivery of Air Combat in Afghanistan. Moreover, she was Officer training to support aircrew capability instrumental in the decision to remove the for the defence forces of Australia and New single seat dinghy from the Afghanistan Zealand, the School of Air Warfare RAAF is Personal Survival Pack to make room for awarded the Grand Master's Australian appropriate survival aids such as a sleeping Medal. bag and extra water. Through dogged determination Flt Lt Rickards has been able to achieve more in The Australian Bi-Centennial Award the last two years than her predecessors Awarded as an ongoing commemoration of achieved in the previous decade. As a direct the Australian Bi-Centenary, to recognise an result of her tremendous endeavour, outstanding individual contribution to initiative and innovative approach, the UK's Australian aviation. fast jet fleet has access to survival equipment appropriate for its current Flight International . operational theatres. Her efforts have Flight International has been charting the without doubt exponentially increased the major events and developments in aviation post-ejection survival and rescue chances for and making sense of them to both the all operational fast jet aircrew and, general public and to the professionals since accordingly, Flt Lt Rickards is awarded the its first issue was published 100 years ago, Sir James Martin Award. weeks after Cody's `hop` at Farnborough. Since then it has informed readers in over THE MASTER'S AWARDS 5,000 issues on the advent of the Zeppelin, the jet engine, the helicopter, VTOL, the The Master's Special Commendation ejector seat, supersonic transport, and the An extra award for 2009. list goes on. Today it is internationally recognised as a primary source of information for keeping up with the salient issues and developments across the whole aviation spectrum. Flight International's team of committed and knowledgeable journalists under the current Editorship of Murdo Morrison, are trusted by their readers to deliver factually accurate and balanced information and well informed insights. They provide a valuable service to Peter W Nottage. the general media of providing expert Peter Nottage has more than 20 years comment to explain the complexities of experience in aviation. He is now CEO of aviation to a public audience. Cobham Flight Operations and Services For its continued endeavour to promote Australia and has overall responsibility for Crew of 'CanJet Flight 918'. public awareness of aviation and important all Australian operations, including the new aspects of specific aviation activity, and At 10.30pm on 19th April 2009, boarding 10 aircraft National Air Support aerial represented by David Learmount, Flight was in progress in Jamaica for 'CanJet Flight surveillance fleet which provides Civil Aerial International is awarded the Guild Award for 918', a Canadian charter Boeing 737 when, Maritime Surveillance services in Australia - Aviation Journalism. inside the passenger terminal, a Jamaican

16 national in an excited state pulled out a hand In 2003, Capt Chalkie Stobbart flew his gun and raced forward on to the loading homebuilt RV-6 aircraft from his home in SA bridge and into the cabin. Heidi Tofflemire, to the USA and back, to celebrate the the senior Flight Attendant, and the Captain, Centenary of Aviation. During this flight he James Murphy, confronted the man and tried started planning his assault on the record set to calm him down. On seeing the gun, the F/O slammed the cockpit door shut, locking by Alex Henshaw in 1939 for a single engine he and Ms Tofflemire in the cockpit, with the piston aircraft from London to Capetown and Captain still in the cabin. The Captain return. This record had stood for 70 years explained that the door could not be unlocked and, despite technical improvements to from the cabin and that without fuel they aircraft and engines, and after several planned couldn't depart. Crew of US Airways 'Flight 1549'. and abandoned attempts by a number of After about 25 mins the man ordered the pilots, until earlier this year, it remained On 15 January this year, US Airways Fl 1549 Captain to go down to the ramp and get the had taken off from LaGuardia Airport and had unbeaten. aircraft fuelled. At this point, while the been in a normal climb out, when about 90 Captain was on the loading bridge, a shot was Planning and modification to a new seconds after take-off, birds began to fill the fired which barely missed him. homebuilt started in earnest in Sep 2008, with windshield and loud thumps hit the aircraft. The crew felt, heard and smelled birds going The F/O continued to communicate with the departure set for May 2009. Modifications into the engines. There was an almost gunman via the intercom and, after a further included a higher performance 195 hp engine, 20 mins, he agreed to let all the passengers off complete loss of forward momentum and the aircraft. The flight attendants also IFR capable avionics, and a 175 litre ferry Capt Sullenberger immediately took control continued to talk to him in an effort to keep tank in the space for the right hand seat. and put the aircraft into a glide. The aircraft was at 3,000 ft over New York him as calm and controlled as possible. The initial plan was for two fuel stops, with Meanwhile, the Captain briefed security on City and descending fast. Capt Sullenberger the situation and a plan was set in motion three legs of approximately 1,800 nm each. began urgently looking for somewhere to land with the arrival of a military 'Swat Team'. However, as avgas is rather difficult to find in and sent a Mayday call to ATC which By about 6.00am everyone was getting tired, Africa and Chalkie did not have the funds to immediately vectored the aircraft for recovery including the gunman. Ms Tofflemire had left pay for avgas to be delivered or to 'smooth to LaGuardia. However, Capt Sullenberger quickly determined that he wouldn't reach the aircraft via the cockpit window and the passage' of its availability at required briefed the 'Swat Team' further on the current the runway at LaGuardia. His next thought refuelling points, the plan had to be modified situation, which she had been able to monitor was to consider Teterboro but it soon became through the cockpit door peephole. to incorporate a third fuel stop, still one less clear that he couldn't make Teterboro either. The only viable, level, smooth surface, Eventually, four fully armed 'Swat Team' than Henshaw. The final routing would be: sufficiently large to land an airliner was the members entered the cockpit through the Cape Town to Brazzaville (Congo), Kano river and Capt Sullenberger reported to ATC F/O's window and he had to stand on a (Nigeria), Algiers, and then on to Southend, that he was attempting to ditch in the vehicle, outside the aircraft, but still talking to with the return routing using the same Hudson. This decision was made 2 mins and the gunman on the intercom. At 7.30am, the 30 secs into the flight, and just one minute cockpit door was suddenly opened and the refuelling stops. Similar to Henshaw, he after the birds had hit. gunman apprehended without a shot being would be taking the most direct route, After an attempt at relight, Capt fired. He is now in custody in Jamaica. irrespective of the menacing miles of Sullenberger's complete focus of attention The crew of 'CanJet 918' handled this wilderness below him, still as dangerous and was then entirely on a successful ditching. attempted hijack situation in an exemplary, threatening as 70 years ago. There were just minutes for him to calm and professional manner, resulting in a accomplish what only a few commercial safe outcome for all passengers and crew. On 8 May this year Chalkie departed from airline pilots had ever done. He recalls They are thoroughly deserving of recognition Capetown, and he successfully made it to thinking: 'I needed to touch down with the and, accordingly, Captain James Murphy and Southend and return to Capetown in record wings exactly level, the nose slightly up, at a F/O Glenn Johnson, together with all other descent rate that was survivable, and just crew members are awarded The Master's time. His incredible journey was fraught with above our minimum flying speed, but not Special Commendation. difficulties: He endured bad weather, a non below it. And I needed to make all these functioning auto-pilot, a storm scope which things happen simultaneously.' His Master's Medal failed, unintelligible radio communications, physiological reaction to the situation was strong but his training and experience came Awarded to any person in aviation, at any extreme physical discomfort, unimaginable to the fore. time, for an act or other achievement in African bureaucracy which vastly increased aviation considered worthy of the Medal, as planned stop-over times, and more, all of Ninety seconds before hitting the water, Capt Sullenberger announced to the passengers soon as the facts of the event are clear. This is which would have 'broken' a lesser man. intended to be an immediate award, made at and crew to brace for impact. Immediately, However, despite the wheels of African the discretion of the Master and on the advice he heard the flight attendants shout their of the Trophies and Awards Committee. bureaucracy and technical and weather commands in response and felt reassured that Awarded twice. problems, the Henshaw record was beaten by if he could land the aircraft, the cabin crew 18 hours and 59 minutes. would get the passengers out safely. Magnanimous in his achievement, Chalkie At the front of the aircraft, the impact was not severe. However, as the tail hit first, the said, and I quote, 'in some ways my flight was impact at the rear was powerful and it tore a easier, in others more difficult - there are no hole in the cabin which compounded the adjectives adequate to describe what Alex problem of evacuating 150 passengers, Henshaw achieved.' For his own incredible responsibility for which fell to Donna Dent, Sheila Dail and Doreen Welsh, who was feat of planning, airmanship and endurance injured in the ditching. in breaking this epic record, Capt 'Chalkie' Once all the passengers were reported as Charles Stobbart. Stobbart is awarded the Master's Medal. clear, Capt Sullenberger personally ensured

17 that everybody was out before taking a final Chinook, let alone a damaged one - a landing other 12 all had life threatening injuries. look at his sinking aircraft, grabbing the into a small area with heavy recirculating None had been administered any pain relief maintenance logbook and jumping into a life dust. and there were no spare medical staff raft full of passengers. Then, just 6 days later, Flt Lt Duncan and his available to help during the transit and only Within the space of less than 5 minutes, the crew were again involved in a night insertion very limited medical supplies on the aircraft. situation of the crew of Fl 1549 had changed a few miles south of his previous incident. With no time to spare, casualties from flying a serviceable aircraft at 3,000 ft in Intelligence was clear that the two wave air deteriorating rapidly and fully conscious of the climb, to being rescued, along with all assault was likely to be opposed. Once the harrowing screams from the cabin their passengers and crew in the middle of again, Flt Lt Duncan and his crew were (despite the noise of the forward rotor the Hudson River. Speed of reaction, engaged by intense Taleban fire but, on this gearbox directly overhead), Flt Lt Walmsley composure, training, situational awareness, occasion, raw skill, courage and a great deal set off for Kandahar Air Base, 20 minutes professionalism, courage, presence of mind of luck got the aircraft into and out of the away, calling for 'Ultimate 22' to follow, as and sheer skill had allowed Capt Chesley landing site without any damage at all. and when able. Sullenberger to save his aircraft and With the recent experience of the very real During the low-level transit in very cramped passengers from the most precarious and life- effects of enemy fire in their minds, the conditions and despite the turbulence and threatening situation. Capt Sullenberger and crew's action demanded good leadership, continuous aircraft manoeuvring and the the entire crew of Fl 1549 are accordingly absolute self-belief and total commitment to casualties' screams, Flt Sgt Patton in awarded a most meritorious and prestigious the mission. 'Ultimate 22' administered all the first aid Master's Medal. Whilst both events are discreet, they and pain relief that he could. The medical occurred in a very short timeframe and the staff at Kandahar later regarded his work as FOR OUTSTANDING COURAGE OR first must have produced a heightened sense exceptional and directly contributed to the DEVOTION TO DUTY IN THE AIR of anxiety during the second. But, setting survival of every one of the casualties. The Grand Master's Commendation this aside, the crew displayed exceptional Both Flt Lt Walmsley and Flt Sgt Patton are professionalism and commendable service in now back in Afghanistan and are represented Awarded at the discretion of the Grand the air, for which Flt Lt Duncan, Flt Lt tonight by fellow Sqn members. For their Master for an act of valour or outstanding Townsend, Flt Sgt Cooper and Master tremendous and courageous efforts in saving services in the air. Aircrewman Raffles are collectively awarded the lives of all those onboard, the crews of the Grand Master's Commendation. both aircraft are awarded the Hugh Gordon- Burge Memorial Award. The Hugh Gordon-Burge Memorial Award Awarded to a member or members of a crew The Prince Philip Helicopter Rescue Award whose outstanding behaviour and action Awarded to an individual member of a contributed to the saving of their aircraft or helicopter crew, a complete crew or the crews passengers. of multiple helicopters, for an act of outstanding courage or devotion to duty in the course of land or sea search and rescue operations. The Crew of Blackcat 22, RAF Chinook. Deployed to Afghanistan for his third operational tour, Flt Lt Duncan and his crew were involved in two distinct dangerous and demanding operations within days of each other in May last year. During the first incident, Chinook 'Blackcat 22' was making a follow-up insertion of a group of VIPs to an area in Helmand when, approximately two miles from the landing site, the aircraft was engaged by a barrage of Representatives of the crews of Ultimate 21 fire, including rocket-propelled grenades, and 22, RAF Chinooks from all directions. It was immediately On the night of 8 January 2009, Flt Lt apparent that the aircraft had inadvertently Walmsley and his crew in Chinook 'Ultimate The Crew of Rescue 193, RN Sea King. flown directly into a sophisticated anti- 21', together with a second aircraft 'Ultimate At just before midnight on 10 November helicopter ambush. The crew felt a 22', received a call for their immediate 2008, the crew of RN Sea King 'Rescue 193', significant and uncontrolled lurch and assistance to extract an unknown number of 771 NAS, based at Culdrose, was scrambled simultaneously one of the crewman reported casualties caused by a car bomb. With to aid a Spanish fishing vessel 150nm south- a large object falling to the ground. passengers already on board, but aware that west of the Isles of Scilly in a westerly gale Flt Lt Duncan quickly manoeuvred to clear any delay would endanger lives, the two force eight and with a casualty suffering from the immediate threat of the contact area. aircraft flew direct to a forward base, picked a severe abdominal injury, assessed as life Despite the loss of one of the main hydraulic up a 'medic' and raced to the scene of the threatening. The crew was accompanied by systems and some rotor blade damage, the incident. a BBC camerawoman, Erica Wilson, who aircraft was still controllable, so rather than On arrival, they were confronted by a scene also played a part in the rescue effort. force-land with all the inherent dangers that of complete devastation and confusion. The The vessel's position was at the extreme posed to crew and passengers, Flt Lt Duncan senior crewman in 'Ultimate 21' discovered range of the Sea King, and after refuelling on decided to try and recover the aircraft to that there were 20 very seriously injured and the Isles of Scilly, 'Rescue 193' arrived on base. After a fraught, but uneventful transit, three dead to extract. The first 8 less severely scene at 02.55hrs. Gale force winds, high with the very real and inherent possibility of injured were loaded and delivered into the seas, and no discernible horizon made an uncontrollable crash-landing, he then care of the passengers, and then, as 'Ultimate hovering extremely difficult for the Aircraft successfully carried out one of the most 21' could take no more, 'Ultimate 22' was Commander, Lt Krueger USCG. Furthermore, challenging manoeuvres in a serviceable called in. Flt Sgt Patton identified that the excessive pitching of the vessel, lack of deck

18 space and a plethora of radio aerials, made were both recovered to the aircraft. However, knowledge that they had performed to the any transfer to the vessel very challenging. despite Lt Krueger's high degree of handling best of their abilities and at the extremities of Given the serious nature of the casualty's skill and captaincy, and the emergency care the aircraft's capabilities. CPO Rigg has since administered by CPO Rigg and Lt Hounsome, injuries, the only safe option was to lower the been awarded the QGM. For their collective successfully resuscitating the casualty on 5 winchman, CPO Rigg, onto the deck to give outstanding courage and devotion to duty separate occasions, he succumbed to his immediate medical treatment. The second throughout this long and arduous rescue severe injuries before the aircraft reached the pilot, Lt Roskilly, directed the vessel to select mission, the entire crew of 'Rescue 193' is Royal Cornwall Hospital. The aircraft awarded the Prince Phillip Helicopter Rescue a heading that reduced the degree of deck recovered to Culdrose at 05.34hrs, by which Award. motion while Lt Hounsome directed the time the crew had been on duty for nearly 20 j aircraft for a period of 30 minutes, with CPO hours. Rigg suspended 60-70 feet below the aircraft, Whilst operating at the very edge of the Sea before he was deposited firmly on deck. King's range, without 'top-cover' from a Immediately, CPO Rigg did as much as he Nimrod, on a very dark night, in gale force could to stabilise the man, whose torso had winds and extremely rough seas, the crew been almost severed by a cable, before they found solace and consolation in the GYM update LIVERYMAN KAT HODGE Our big news is that the brand new GYM leaflet is now in print. You will find it enclosed with this issue of the Guild News: please have a read of it and pass it along to a young person who would be interested in the benefits of belonging to GYM. The leaflet was snapped up at the Flyer Show, the RAeS Careers day and will be distributed around flying schools, gliding clubs and other aviation outlets. If you would like to display the leaflets or know of somewhere that would please contact us on [email protected] Large GYM posters will also shortly be available. GYM was pleased to see so many young members, their guests and families, some for the first time, attending the Trophies and Awards Banquet, where two GYM members, Edward Warburton and Kat Hodge were clothed in the Livery. The Flyer Show at Heathrow at the end of Guild Scholarships and Bursaries October again saw many young members on the Guild stand offering careers advice. This ASSISTANT TOM EELES is always an extremely busy event and very rewarding, especially when people have The Guild's 2009 Scholarships and Master's Scholarship), Captain Dick Felix come particularly to talk to us, following (Chairman, Scholarship Committee), Air Bursaries were presented to the twelve up on advice given at previous shows or on proud recipients by the Immediate Past Commodore Rick Peacock-Edwards a recommendation. (Immediate Past Master), Ronald Dickie Master, Air Commodore Rick Peacock- The Royal Aeronautical Society Careers day Edwards, at a ceremony after the Court (Sir Sefton Branker Scholarship), Emma on November 6th also had a strong team of Meeting at Cutlers' Hall on 12th D'Souza (Benevolent Fund PPL young members supporting Dacre Watson on November. The recipients were warmly Scholarship), Sy King (Benevolent Fund the stand. Two GYM members, Peter Nye Flying Scholarship for the Disabled), and Kat Hodge had the opportunity to give a applauded by members of the Court and James Carrie (IR Instructor Rating), David presentation to the students about becoming after the presentation ceremony were then Batchelder (JOC Scholarship). commercial pilots, in contrast to Guild entertained by the Court to a buffet supper Unfortunately Victoria Farmer (The Guild member Nick Goodwyn's talk about becoming an RAF pilot. A popular question in the magnificent dining hall of the Instrument Rating Bursary) missed and answer session afterwards showed that Cutlers' Hall. The Scholarship winners are inclusion in the group photograph. this is a career path that surprisingly few of shown in the accompanying photo: The following scholars were unable to the often engineering focused students have Andrew Bland (Cobham Scholarship), Dan attend: Kelly Cooke, whose father considered. Martin (Weetabix Scholarship), Chris represented her, Mark Nulty, Gareth Young members, Oli Russell and Jas Singh Mann (E S Hogg Scholarship), Andrew Carnes, Courtney Challis, Thomas Cutress, represented the GYM at the at Scholarship Griffiths (Sir George Gaggero Scholarship), Christopher Gills, Geoff Buck, and Ellen Presentation at Cutlers Hall to welcome our Hannah Cawthorne (Joseph Gaggero Engdahl. j newest members on the 12th November. Scholarship), Helme Harrison (Grand j 19 INTERNATIONAL WATER-GUARD High Tech Solution for Clean Water on Aircraft DONNA FARQUHAR ADMINISTRATOR, GUILD OF AIR PILOTS AND AIR NAVIGATORS(CANADA)

Since its inception IWG has produced almost odern aviation in a vast, young 2,000 of its flight qualified water treatment country like Canada covers a units, most over the last ten years. The broad range of activities. company's entire range of equipment uses M ultraviolet radiation to eliminate bacteria, There are still independent plaid-shirted supplemental water treatment, the EPA notes bush pilots soaring over huge unpopulated viruses and other unwanted organisms in a that there are UV disinfection systems tracts of land -- the quintessential and plane's water supply. certified by the FAA that can be retrofitted romantic symbol of flying on the frontier. “By installing the water treatment units in onto commercial passenger aircraft. But at the other end of the spectrum, the strategic locations throughout the aircraft, “There is mounting pressure from the focus in Canadian aviation is on pure water is the result every time you turn traveling public and private jet owners for technological innovation, consumer safety on a tap,” Fox explains. “Ideally, these units clean water on-board,” Fox explains. “We and environmental concerns for a worldwide are placed at the tank exit and at points of now live in a time of increasing awareness of market. These are the defining principles on use, such as galleys and lavatories. This the environmental impact of bottled water, which International Water-Guard, a uniquely multi-barrier approach provides clean, safe too. On aircraft, the weight of ferrying water water on-demand, every time.” Canadian solution to clean water on aircraft, and excess bottled water loaded by the has been built. According to Fox, as well as the more airline itself or passengers, contribute to mainstream corporate jets, most VIP airliner additional fuel burn. With on-board water conversions are equipped with IWG treatment that added weight can be products, as are many Boeing Business Jets, minimized. Likewise, when our units or and now the Airbus ACJ. “We work closely systems are installed, we believe airlines will with aircraft completion centres throughout encounter reduced cost of compliance with the world, where both new production new regulations, and may well need less aircraft and older models are modified for sanitization maintenance over the years.” use in corporate aviation,” he says. For more information about International David Fox, IWG President & CEO In addition to its Water Treatment Units, the Water-Guard's water treatment products and Circulating Potable Water System (C-PWS) systems, go to www.water.aero or call “It's our mission to improve the quality of was also developed by IWG and has received 604-255-5555. aircraft potable water and water supply both Canadian and American aviation j systems,” IWG President & Chief Executive regulatory approval. “It has been patented Officer David C. Fox explains. “We are the and retrofitted on Airbus A310, ACJ, Boeing's market leader in designing, manufacturing BBJ, Bombardier Global Express and and supplying water treatment equipment to Gulfstream's GIV aircraft,” Fox points out. the world's large corporate jet manufacturers “This represents our current evolution from and VIP airliner conversions.” a supplier of aircraft water treatment to a Fox, a native of London and Freeman of the broad spectrum of water system, component newly minted Canadian chapter of the Guild, and engineering solutions.” did his own pilot's training in Abbotsford, The use of ultraviolet technology to provide British Columbia after emigrating to Canada clean water on airplanes has not escaped the from the United Kingdom. Educated as an notice of organizations like the United aeronautical engineer, he has spent his States's Environmental Protection Agency. career in aviation, from working as a flight Just last year, the EPA issued a proposed rule attendant in his student days to a entitled National Primary Drinking Water management role with the Air Show Canada Regulations: Drinking Water Regulations on aerospace tradeshow. Fox took over the Aircraft Public Water Systems. In this helm at IWG in 2004. document, while not mandating “There is a strong emphasis on technological innovation in our approach to cleaner water A Canadian Forces Airbus A310 (CC-150 Polaris), equipped with IWG Circulating on aircraft,” he points out. “This has led to Potable Water System. long-term relationships with the three largest corporate jet manufacturers: Gulfstream Aerospace, Dassault Falcon Jet and Bombardier. The need to meet the highest standards in security, health and safety for passengers and crew in worldwide operations is well recognized in this sector. And in dealing with waterborne contamination, we're the experts.”

20 IF THERE WAS NO SUCH THING AS WINTER, THE SPRING WOULD NOT BE SO PLEASANT A VIEW FROM SOUTH AUSTRALIA BRIAN BIGG

Ah, Winter. try and fight the climate. say something the other day about ''It's The aeroplane sits coldly in the hangar. Sigh. time he grew up? '' Unloved, untouched, unflown. Ah, Winter. Sigh. Honestly, most weekends in winter, a look For everyone south of the dingo fence, Ah, Winter. out the window and a glance at the winter is really a time of reflection, a time It's nice to get a break from the heat, it mermaid-on-a-rock temperature gauge by to catch up with aviation as an inspiration really is. And the rare weekend when the the sink is enough to tell you there's no rather than an activity. wind doesn't blow and the rain stays point calling up the NAIPS or looking for It's time for maintenance for you lot with away, there are some magical moments the charts. You're not going anywhere friendly LAMEs or ultralights. It's a time to when you can get the wheels off the again today. catch up on those little chores you were ground for even half an hour. It's hard enough to work up the energy to too busy to fix in the other seasons But it's not nearly enough to soothe the drive out to the field every so often to because you were too busy flying. check if the tyres have any air in them or beast, so it's lucky that nature, in its Remember? if the battery is as flat as the dreaded infinite wisdom, doesn't hold a grudge for ''Yeah, the brakes are shot. But we're all mother-in-law's spinach quiche. long. heading over to Yandalumnut this Ah, Winter. weekend and the strip there is big enough, What gets you through the cold every year It's alright for you lot in Queensland where I can coast to a stop in heaps of time. is the sure knowledge that one day in the the seasons range expansively from hot She'll be fine.'' next few weeks, the temperature will spike and wet to not-so-hot and not-so-wet. up, the winds will turn northerly and Winter is a time to go to the flying club's Winter for you lot only ever means Sunday morning barbeque, help them get doctor will say that although you're a bit mowing the lawn every two weeks, not the barbie going in the rain, then retreat overweight for a person of your height and one. inside and fly with your hands for a while. you should cut down on the beer now And flying in winter is actually nice to do you've reached your age, he can find not And because we're not out scratching our up there because it's a terrific chance to enough wrong with your health to prevent itch every weekend, winter is when most get out under Perspex and not sweat away you flying for a couple more years yet. of us think about the cost of flying rather 10kg before lunchtime. And to relearn than the joy of it. Are we getting the best And you'll bounce out into the sunshine what it's like to fly a straight line without use of our beloved ride ? Is it time to trade the instruments bouncing around in front with a big toothy grin for everyone around up to that bigger engine, that extra speed of you like they're attached to a Whirlpool you and join the crowd heading to the field and those extra seats? washer/dryer on the spin cycle. - busting to get into the vast blue skies Or somewhat darker thoughts: ''Perhaps I For everyone south of dengue fever where we all go to play. should accept I'm not using it as much as country though, a trip to the hangar on a Ah, Winter. I hoped I would. Is it time to sell up - buy Sunday morning in winter is mostly just a boat instead? '' It's nice to see you every year but you've an exercise in optimism. outstayed your welcome. Dont hurry back There's a certain old biddy who's been in You know before you get to the field that (actually that goes for the mother-in-law the missus' ear sprouting that last point of the winds are howling and the as well). temperature is somewhat cooler than the view for a while now. Didn't you hear her j mother-in-law's frosty stare when you come home with a few beers under the belt after watching the races on Saturday afternoon at the club with the mates (forgetting - perhaps deliberately so - that the missus told you the old biddy was coming over for a visit.) You know that even before you push open the hangar and the doors squeal because they haven't been pushed open in a long while that you won't be flying anywhere again this weekend. The windsock stands parallel to the runway, for goodness sake. Don't even think about it. The clouds race up from the south. And even the birds too stupid to fly north to get out of the cold are sitting A Wintery Scene, photo courtest of P Fynes hunched on the fence not game enough to

21 AUSTRALIA'S ROYAL FLYING John waves farewell to the cruise ship DOCTOR SERVICE SAVES PAST MASTER'S EYESIGHT PAST MASTER JOHN HUTCHINSON

The float equipped Caravan. s many of you will know, I am a great lover of cruising. Usually, I Amanage to avoid paying for the cruise by singing for my supper and it is procedures had been completed and, at 9 that something that Sue and I greatly enjoy. An area morning, I was in Professor Constable's eye of the world we have always wanted to cruise clinic. He took one look at the eye and is off the north-west coast of Australia, the then. All I had to do was enjoy my final night announced that he would operate on me as an Kimberly; one of the remotest, wildest and on board and pack, ready for departure next emergency that night. The operation took two most beautiful regions on earth. Well, my morning. After a splendid breakfast, I was hours during which the retina was securely re- dream seemed to be reaching fulfillment in ready to go and at 9.30 that morning a Cessna attached. It was only just in time as it is vital August when Sue & I had booked with friends Caravan, fitted with floats, splashed down that a detached retina is operated on within 5 to go on an 11 day cruise from Darwin to alongside the ship to fly me off to Broome. I or 6 days or it dies and the sight in the eye is Broome on board the MV Orion. We boarded was about to become a customer of the lost. My operation took place just 4 days after this beautiful ship with nearly 100 other legendary Royal Flying Doctor Service who had the detachment! passengers on April Fool's day (appropriate chartered this seaplane from Broome Aviation! perhaps?) and were all set for an absolutely Now, 3 months later, the eye is still recovering I was transferred from ship to seaplane by fabulous cruise on an absolutely fabulous from the operation and, once it has settled Zodiac after fond farewells from my fellow cruise ship. My feelings of excitement and down, I will need a prescription lens for my passengers and all the crew. Sue was not anticipation were off the scale! distance vision. But the operation has been a allowed to come with me; we were under strict great success and I have sight in that eye. For Fate, however, intervened. The very next day I instructions that only the patient and minimal this I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the most noticed a black curtain in the corner of my right overnight baggage could be taken. I said my excellent Royal Flying Doctor Service and to the eye. I decided to ignore it in the hope that it goodbyes to Sue on the Zodiac and climbed superb medical facilities in Australia. I cannot would disappear next day. It was still there the aboard to meet the pilot, Rhys Thomas, and the thank them enough but I should also record my following morning but no worse so I decided to RFDS doctor, Brian Collings. It is interesting to thanks to the crew of the MV Orion who spared go on a hike to the top of the King George River note that this was a single pilot operation no effort in making all the arrangements to fly gorge, an area of spectacular beauty. The which would not be allowed in the UK and I me off from the ship and took the greatest care following day the black curtain had enlarged would guess that if the Australian authorities of Sue for the rest of the cruise. Finally, my dramatically, covering half the eye, and I then were to insist on a two man crew, the RFDS sincere thanks must also go to our travel had no choice but to present myself to the would probably be unable to operate. We were insurers, AXA, who authorised absolutely ship's doctor. She was excellent and, whilst airborne by 10 a.m. for a 2 hours flight. On everything that was required and could not acknowledging that she was no eye expert, she arrival at Broome I was taken by ambulance to have been more helpful and co-operative. was pretty certain it was a detached retina. She the local hospital where I was investigated by a Having heard so many bad stories about then asked me if I knew the phone number of team of doctors who confirmed that my retina insurers, I was, quite frankly, amazed. It my retinal surgeon in Cambridge, Mr. Martin had indeed detached. I spent the afternoon removed a huge amount of pressure from me in Snead. Of course I did not but I was able to there while arrangements were made to refer a stressful situation and I am most grateful for phone our son Chris (just clothed with the me to a leading Australian retinal surgeon, that. Thank God for travel insurance! Livery at the T & A) and he called back a few Professor Ian Constable, who is the Director of j minutes later with Mr. Snead's mobile phone the Lions Eye number. Isn't technology wonderful? The next Institute in Perth. thing was that the ship's doctor, sitting on a I flew down to ship about 500 miles west of Darwin and over Perth that 2000 miles north of Perth, was speaking to him evening on a on his mobile. Having heard a description of Virgin Blue flight my symptoms, he was uncompromising; “It is and was whisked almost certainly a retinal detachment; get him off in a limousine off the ship to a retinal surgeon as soon as organised by the possible”. insurers to the Sir The ship's crew was magnificent. They could Charles Gairdner not have been more caring or sympathetic to Hospital. I finally my plight. The Doctor was brilliant and kept got to bed at me calm! The Purser swung into action, called about 3 a.m. after my travel insurers and succeeded in getting the the admission whole package authorised by them there and The Royal Flying Doctor Service staff prepare to welcome John on board.

22 Dr Janet Missen arrives in appropriate style. GUILD VISIT TO BROOKLANDS TUESDAY 15 th SEPTEMBER 2009 ASSISTANT CHRIS FORD

Culllingham and n a very dull and damp late Roger Walker summer’s morning 30 Guild introduced the group Omembers assembled in the to the Simulator, Members lounge of the Clubhouse at the where there was the Brooklands Aviation and Motor Museum opportunity for 5 near Weybridge for a visit hosted by people at a time to take a simulated flight Motor Museum. Hidden within the liveryman Allan Winn, Director of the from Heathrow, through Tower Bridge and Clubhouse are many historic reminders of Museum. After a brief introduction by Allan over Buckingham Palace prior to landing the evolution of motor racing in the UK. the members divided into two parties to back at Heathrow. This was a memorable Many of the traditions are taken from the pursue differing activities. The first 15 were experience for those of us who had not horse racing world, with accommodation for to be hosted by Past Master Mike Bannister travelled in Concorde in real life. The officials such as stewards, the Clerk of the and a team of volunteers who showed us Simulator has been recovered from Filton Scales and the Clerk of the Course and even round Concorde 'DG' and the Simulator. The where, having been scrapped and cut up, the a weighbridge for the cars. other 15 were firstly whisked off by Rob volunteers from Brooklands recovered the There then followed a very comprehensive Burton to the Car Museum and thence to the structure and moved it to its present location tour of the Motor and Motor Cycle Museum Aircraft parked in the Wellington Hanger. where it has been restored and made capable before the group ventured out into the rain to of recreating the original in all make their way to the Wellington Hangar. Mike Bannister in the Concorde simulator aspects except full motion. Also The star of the hangar has to be N2980, the enjoyed by this group was the only remaining Brooklands built Wellington opportunity to partake in two bomber, designed by Barnes Wallis. laps of the historic Brooklands track in an F1 simulator (with a Developed from the Wellesley, the Wellington very twitchy steering wheel). prototype first flew at Brooklands in 1936. Its Despite the best efforts of Mike fabric-covered geodetic structure was able to Hawes, who was supervising this absorb heavy damage, and it was the only session, most members managed British bomber to be used throughout World to spin off a few times during the War Two, serving with Bomber, Coastal, circuits. After the F1 experience, Transport and Training Commands. the next joy was trying to steer a Altogether 11,461 Wellingtons were Napier Railton round a similar produced, 2,515 of these at Brooklands. circuit. Needless to say, whilst Those who went to Concorde first, with N2980 was recovered from Loch Ness and some mastered the art, a few did depart the Brooklands volunteer Chris Mitchell, were has been restored to show off the design track through over-steering! told the story of how 'DG', a test bed features so well conceived by Barnes Wallis. After this rather exciting morning a splendid Concorde, was recovered to Brooklands and Two variants of his “Bouncing Bomb” and a lovingly re-assembled. As a result, visitors to buffet lunch was taken in the Members Bar of “Tall Boy” are also on display. the Museum are now able to be shown the Clubhouse. During lunch a raffle was through the fuselage from stern to nose held by Mike Bannister, the prize being the Throughout this visit it was obvious that all whilst reading about the development of chance to win a two hour Simulator slot with those who give of their time to restore and supersonic passenger flight. Exhibits within three friends. The ever lucky Jim Passmore maintain the exhibits, and guide the visitors the fuselage include memorabilia of the age was the winner and we hope he remembers through the wonderful history of aviation of supersonic travel as well as models of who organised the visit when selecting his and motoring, are dedicated to preserving the Concorde in the liveries of the many airlines friends! After lunch the Immediate Past heritage contained within Brooklands. that showed an initial interest in purchasing Master, Rick Peacock-Edwards, gave a few Virginia Price, the Education and Visitor words of thanks to Allan Winn before the the aircraft. In the forward cabin, reclining Services Manager, and Mike Bannister, had in the original luxurious seating, the visitor is assembled members set off for the second organised an exciting and memorable visit shown a 15 min video of the Concorde part of the visit. for the Guild. More information about Experience, narrated by Mike Bannister and Those who visited the Motor Museum in the Brooklands and all the treasures assembled enhanced by the bulkhead notices displaying morning then visited the Concorde there can be found on a very concise the altitude and Mach number during the experience with volunteer David Jux whilst and easy to navigate web site, 'flight' Peter Watling took the remainder on a very www.brooklandsmuseum.com Following this magnificent experience, Jame well presented tour of the Clubhouse and j

23 GUILD VISIT TO ‘THE BLADES’ 7th OCTOBER 2009 The Blades at work in the air ASSISTANT TOM EELES when the downturn looked as though it was Following Andy's presentation, we were split wenty six Guild members, including going to seriously affect their operations. into 3 groups, and visited in turn the Past Masters Arthur Thorning, Rod Following a rethink, a degree a diversification company's Navajo, used as a specialist trials Fulton and Roger Gault, travelled to was embarked upon, including the aircraft and occasional airliner, the coffee bar T establishment of an evaluation unit (known Sywell Airfield near Northampton on 7th October to visit The Blades aerobatic team as Scimitar) to test airborne equipment, such for further refreshment and finally an Extra and its founding company, 2Excel Aviation. as survey cameras, and an 'A2B' airline using 300 in the hangar, where Myles Garland, the After a welcome hot drink and biscuits - it commuter type aircraft. current team leader, briefed us on the aircraft was a bright but chilly morning - Andy Offer, However, The Blades aerobatic team is still and its associated equipment. Of particular founder of The Blades, began by briefing us very much the jewel in 2Excel's crown. It is interest was the ability to convert the Extra on his background as a fast jet pilot in the the country's only civilian full time aerobatic 300 into a surrogate UAV, by attaching a RAF. After a first tour as a QFI and Jet team and the only globally accredited camera to pylons below the fuselage and Provost display pilot, he moved on to the 'aerobatic airline', providing unique and Harrier force, qualifying as a weapons unforgettable corporate experiences and installing a control unit in the front cockpit. instructor and displaying the Harrier in 1995. events. Every year it will provide 50 airshow This enables the aircraft's down link to He moved on to become a member of the Red appearances, 10 special displays, 40 mimic a UAV's ability to download real time Arrows and after some ground appointments unforgettable corporate events and up to 5 images to troops on the ground, thus led the Team before promotion to Wing iconic images or media events. It has taken providing valuable training in this country to Commander. He was appointed as OC IV part in a number of diverse special occasions, (AC) Squadron, flying the Harrier on ranging from the Beckham's pre 2006 World those about to deploy to operational theatres operations in Afghanistan.in 2005. Whilst in Cup party, to the first ever airshow in Bahrain where extensive use is made of real time UAV command of IV(AC) Squadron he and Chris and the Queen's 80th birthday celebrations at imagery. UAVs are not currently permitted to Norton, then OC 1(F) Squadron, turned the Balmoral. Andy pointed out that, after a fly in UK airspace apart from in specific idea of forming a world class aerobatic team lifetime spent avoiding overflight of restricted areas. into a reality, drawing heavily on his Balmoral, it was a strange sensation to background as a member and leader of the perform over it at 50 feet! The team's pilots Following an excellent buffet lunch we made Red Arrows. His plan was to replicate what are all ex Red Arrows with a fast jet our way outside to watch the team carry out the Red Arrows achieve as the best aerobatic background of Harrier or Jaguar. The team's a practice display over the airfield. This was team in the world but additionally to tap into aircraft are Extra 300s, specialist aerobatic the corporate, business and entertainment aircraft stressed to +10g and -10g. Each indeed an exciting event to witness; the world that is associated but which was aircraft is equipped with 6 cameras, mounted aircraft is capable of carrying out some very unavailable to the Red Arrows because of on wing tips, in cockpit and in other special exotic aerobatic manoeuvres and to see these their status as a military unit. Having evolved locations. This enables in-flight real time being performed in close formation, such as his concept with Chris Norton, they both left filming to be relayed to a ground station four aircraft in line abreast doing co- the RAF in March 2006 to set up their new through each aircraft's down link aerial, company - a bold move indeed ! enabling those watching on the ground to ordinated stall turns, in line abreast, was Nevertheless, they managed to secure share in the experience of their airborne really dramatic. Building on their experience funding and set up the company at Sywell colleagues. The team's ground facilities at as Red Arrows pilots, the team has evolved a between August 2005 and March 2006. Sywell are equally impressive; overlooking very dynamic and fast moving display; Former Red Arrows pilots were recruited as the airfield, they can provide top class however, whether any of us would have liked team members, Display Authorisation was facilities to host up to 1000 people, typical achieved on 2nd May 2006, the Team was events being conferences, employee rewards, to have been passengers during it remains a formally launched on 4th May and a full Air team building, product launches, client matter for debate ! After the display there Operators Certificate, which allowed the events and summer balls. As their brochure was a final question and answer session, Team to carry fare paying passengers during states, ' Wherever you hold your event, you followed by the presentation of a Guild formation aerobatics, was granted on 15th and your colleagues can take to the skies plaque by Past Master Roger Gault, who May. The Team's first full corporate event with The Blades for an unforgettable flying took place next day! After starting with experience. Imagine yourself upside down in thanked the Blades for an excellent and most sponsorship from Barclays Bank the Team our two seat high performance aircraft, just interesting visit. To have dreamt up such a had a very successful period until late 2008, feet away from your guests.' scheme whilst running a front line squadron on operations, and then put it into being in such a short time, and make such an obvious success of it requires enormous vision, dedication, leadership and ability; Andy and his team are to be congratulated on their outstanding achievement. Before leaving, some Guild members visited the interesting Aviation Museum at Sywell. For one Guild member, it was also a nostalgic occasion; Sywell was where David Holloway flew his The Guild visitors and The Blades pilots in front of the team's aircraft. first solo in a Tiger Moth in 1943. j

24 VISIT TO THE NAVAL STRIKE WING, RAF COTTESMORE ASSISTANT TOM EELES PHOTOS COURTESY SAC HANSON, 27th OCTOBER 2009 PHOTO SECTION RAF COTTESMORE David Bywater tries out the GR9 cockpit

Squadrons - 800 and 801 - would be realised. of fast jet aircraft with weapons, through hen the Sea Harrier FA2 was At present there is in effect only one selective attacks using minimum force, such taken out of service the Royal squadron. Whilst acknowledging the as individual attacks with rockets, up to the WNavy's front line fighter constraints of limited defence spending he ultimate sanction of a guided bomb strike. squadrons, 800 and 801, reformed as the mentioned his concerns over the lack of Much work is carried out at night, described Naval Strike Wing, based at RAF Cottesmore public awareness - 'Sea Blindness' - of Royal as 'interpreting different shades of green'. as a component of the Joint Force Harrier. Navy activities and hoped that this could be Great care is taken not to cause excessive The Naval Strike Wing is an affiliated unit of remedied in future. He saw a bright future for damage to infrastructure and bystanders. A the Guild and on 27th October a party of 30, the Fleet Air Arm in the form of the new great advantage of the GR9 version of the led by the Immediate Past Master Air carriers and the JSF F35 Lightning planned to Commodore Rick Peacock-Edwards, was able replace the Harrier in due course. Before Harrier is that it now has a 'bring back' to visit the unit in its new home at handing over to Lieutenant Simon Rawlins he capability when operating from a carrier, Cottesmore. Included in the party were some was presented with the Guild's Certificate of thus expensive and unused weapons do not naval aviators from previous times, including Affiliation by the Immediate Past Master. He have to be jettisoned before recovery to the Commander Bertie Vigrass. We were is clearly a man who thoroughly enjoys his ship. Lieutenant Rawlins concluded his welcomed by Group Captain Gary Waterfall, present appointment. presentation with a brief on how to land a the Station Commander and Harrier Joint Lieutenant Simon Rawlins, whose father, Mr Harrier on an aircraft carrier, an activity some Force Commander, who emphasised the joint Terry Rawlins, was one of the Guild visitors, of us would attempt later in the simulator. He relationship of the Harrier Force, with its briefed us on the specific capabilities of the promised to buy a beer for anyone who 50/50 RN/RAF split; he emphasised that the Harrier, its sytems, weapons and tactics. He succeeded! Throughout his presentation he current GR9 version of the Harrier was the first RN ab initio pilot to fly the represented the ultimate version of the type, was ably assisted by Lieutenant Abi Mark, GR7/9 Harrier, he served with 1(F) Squadron and that the Force was now heavily involved one of the few female pilots in the Harrier and is a Qualified Weapons Instructor, he has in a period of regeneration after a very long Force. She was a first tour pilot who had been done 5 deployments to Afghanistan and commitment to active Close Air Support on the Naval Strike Wing for 18 months. flown 193 combat missions. He emphasised operations in Afghanistan. the flexibility that the Harrier offered, it was After an excellent lunch in The Officer's now equipped with 'state of the art' avionics Mess/Wardroom, hosted by other members and was optimised to carry out medium level of the Naval Strike Wing, including a Royal Close Air Support operations. Air to Air Marine Harrier pilot - it really is a truly joint Refuelling also played a major role in organisation - we proceeded to a hangar to operations over Afghanistan, sortie lengths of see the various weapons and to examine a 7 hours were common, a huge challenge in a Harrier with power on so that the cockpit complex single seat aircraft; the longest sortie displays were visible. Then it was on to a bus he had flown was 7 hrs 45 minutes. The for a short transit down the A1 to RAF Harrier's on board systems included integral Wittering where the flight simulators are Electronic Warfare protection, a rear sector located. A number of the Guild visitors then Missile Approach Warner and decoy flares, a Examining attempted to carry out a ski jump launch, a The IPM presents Commander Dual Mode Tracker for accurate delivery of the Paveway Lindsay with the Guild's unguided weapons and a Forward Looking visual circuit of the ship and a vertical 4 guided bomb Certificate of Affiliation Infra Red navigation system for low light and landing. The visual system was particularly night conditions. The aircraft can also carry impressive in its realism. Our two hosts, Si Commander David Lindsay, Commanding the highly sophisticated Sniper targeting and and Abi, did their best to instruct those who Officer Naval Strike Wing, then took up the designator pod, which has proved immensely tried to do it, but sadly with only limited story with a short resume of his varied flying success. Some successful landings were career, which has included tours as an capable, and a photo recce pod. The ability to instructor at RAF Valley and tours on three of produce traditional photographic images achieved, but many ended in spectacular the RAF's Harrier squadrons, 3, IV and 20. from the air is still much valued by ground disaster - names protected to save He explained that after 5 years of operations forces. The pilot has helmet-mounted Night embarassment ! Finally, with maximum ship on Op Herrick Joint Force Harrier pilots were Vision Goggles and a laser pointer. The main pitch and roll selected, Si showed us all how a very capable combat experienced team. weapons used are the CRV7 rocket projectile, to do it with consumate ease. His bar bill will which travels at Mach 4 and so can be fired During the whole time spent on operations not suffer too much. there had been no 'blue on blue' events, the accurately from a long range, ballistic 500lb In conclusion, it was a fascinating visit Harrier now was the Close Air Support and 1000lb bombs and the very advanced exteremly well hosted. The Harrier Force, platform of choice for coalition forces and Paveway 4 Laser or GPS Guided Bomb. This that by and large their air operations had weapon has a variety of selectable impact and the Naval Strike Wing element of it, face been conducted at medium level. Now that heading options, from vertical (in through a challenging future in their regeneration the Force was embarking on a 2 year period the roof) to horizontal (in through the door) process after combat operations, but given of regeneration there would be a need to together with a variety of fusing options. Up the quality of those who we met on the Naval recover many of the old skills that had not to 6 of these can be carried but the usual load Strike Wing, this challenge will be well been used in air operations over Afghanistan, is 2 per aircraft. Also available is the accepted. Our thanks go to Commander which would be a considerable challenge for Maverick air to ground missile, used mainly David Lindsay and Lieutenants Abi Mark and against moving targets such as vehicles, and his supervisors. He expected that by 2011 the Si Rawlins, and all others at RAF Cottesmore the Sidewinder air to air missile, not used in Force would be capable of 'small scale focus and Wittering for such an interesting and intervention' on a world wide basis. Afghan operations. informative visit. Commenting on specific Royal Navy issues, Tactics range from high speed low level j he hoped the aspiration to field 2 Naval Air overflights designed to advertise the presence

25 SIR FREDERICK TYMMS MEMORIAL LECTURE HARRISON, NAVIGATION AND THE CORPUS CHRONOPHAGE CLOCK 30th SEPTEMBER 2009 Sir Arnold Wolfendale FRS and Dr John C Taylor ASSISTANT TOM EELES

sophisticated clocks as he “I know well what time is The Corpus Chronophage Clock showing the Grasshopper escapement when no one asks me. believed that the accurate But when I am asked I no measurement of time was the longer know what it is.” only reliable method of resolving St Augustine longitude. Despite many setbacks Harrison perservered ''God invented time to stop everything and finally achieved the happening at once.'' With these words Sir accuracy and reliability required Arnold Wolfendale opened the 2009 Sir with his H4 timepiece, ultimately Frederick Tymms Memorial lecture on the winning the prize. Harrison was subject of Time, Navigation, Harrison the indeed a genius, his clocks were famous 18th century horologist and the mechanical marvels that Corpus Chronophage Clock. After being achieved timekeeping accuracy introduced by the Master, Sir Arnold that would still be considered entertained his audience with an amusing and fascinating description of John exceptionally good today. Harrison's life and pioneering work in the Measurement of time is still in 18th century. effect used today in navigational calculation. Sir Arnold John Harrison concluded by describing the monument to Harrison, unveiled in Westminster Abbey in 2006 by the Duke of Edinburgh, before handing over to Dr John Taylor. Dr Taylor began by describing his early experiences of working with his father, who developed many specialist electrical items, including electrically heated flying suits. Lightning and Canberra PR9 pilots might recall the Taylor helmet of the 1960s, developed for very high level flight. Dr Taylor's company has specialised in the design and manufacture of electrical of the extraordinary Chronophage Clock, switchgear; for example it has produced more Harrison, a gifted clockmaker from which uses the Grasshopper escapement than 1 billion electrical kettle controls used Lincolnshire, devoted his life to developing a mechanism perfected by Harrison more than throughout the world. Dr Taylor is also a keen reliable timepiece that would enable 200 years ago. The clock was presented by Dr aviator, having learnt to fly whilst a student navigators at sea to calculate accurately their Taylor to his Cambridge College, Corpus at Cambridge University. He was one of the longitude. Although the calculation of Christi, where it can be seen today. earliest entrepreneurs in this country to use latitude had been solved by measuring the Proposing a vote of thanks, Dr Michael Fopp, aircraft for business purposes, attempting to height of the sun above the horizon, no one Master Elect, remarked that Harrison's work fly an Aztec from the UK to Japan across had yet found a means of calculating in the 18th century is still an outstanding northern Canada and Alaska during the longitude. Following the maritime disaster of example of inventiveness and persistence, height of the Cold War. Today he makes use Admiral Sir Cloudsley Shovell's fleet being mirrored in many ways by Dr Taylor's work of a more modern Cessna Citation. He is a wrecked on the Scilly Isles through lack of in the 20th and 21st century. He thanked both keen and capable glider pilot, showing his knowledge of its longitude, the Royal Society speakers for a superbly entertaining and audience a photo of the instrument panel of offered the unprecedented sum of £10,000 to instructive presentation which had his glider at 15,000ft over the Cairngorms, the man who could solve this problem. considerable relevance for 21st century still climbing at 3 kts. As a great admirer of Despite the opposition of those who believed aviators. that astronomical observation was the Harrison his contribution to the Lecture was j answer, Harrison developed a series of highly to describe the conception and construction

26 PAGE 27 23/11/09 13:31 Page 1

Guild Technical News PAST MASTER CHRIS HODGKINSON, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

PPL I/R RENEWALS It would appear that information. Besides those who sit on our you accurately. commercial pilots will be able to renew Committees, there is undoubtedly a huge their private I/R privileges when reservoir of expertise among our many EASA You may have read elsewhere of undertaking their normal type renewals. If members unknown to Head Office. We the recent spat between the European one has a multi-crew ATPL rating and I/R look forward to hearing from you - Commission and EASA. The good news is on, say, a Boeing, keeping that I/R current whatever your aviation expertise. that it would appear that the Agency will through sim checks etc doesn't normally be going back to the drawing board in keep the I/R current for single engine PERMIT TO FLY AIRCRAFT With the some areas and reverting to ICAO and JAA aircraft if one flies, say a Cessna 172 increasing popularity of LSA (Light Sports rules where there is no proven requirement privately and already have an I/R valid on Aircraft) the CAA recently published a (safety case) for change. This new singles. However, if during the Boeing sim letter to current and potential operators approach should be beneficial to all I/R renewal one can get the with respect to EASA's plans for these segments of the aviation spectrum and for examiner/training captain to sign a aircraft. As a reminder CAP 733 includes GA an acceptance of 'proportionality' in particular CAA form, the Boeing sim I/R these current limitations - Flights will rule making will be most welcome. In the renewal then renews the single engine I/R normally be restricted to day Visual Flight licensing arena, the UK is making every at the same time. Rules (VFR) only; no ab-initio instruction; effort to maintain the IMC Rating against The relevant information may be found at: normally be restricted to flights within UK determined opposition form many http://www.caa.co.uk/docs/33/DOC%2014 airspace unless the prior agreement of the continental organisations, which %20V5%20.pdf. country in which the flights are to be made mistakenly see it as a 'poor man's IR'. The is obtained and not normally be permitted current EASA FCL 008 proposal is for an AIR TRAFFICKER & THE TECHNICAL to fly over congested areas. The letter en-route IR, with no authority to make an COMMITTEE (TASC) We seek an Air includes these limitations - kit built instrument approach should it be needed! Traffic Controller (preferably current but versions will only be eligible for a National The battle continues. not vital for the right person) to liaise with PtF eg a UK PtF issued by the CAA and the technical side of GATCO and to join the administered by the Light Aircraft LISTENING SQUAWKS to avoid in- TASC, which meets 5 times a year. Our Association (LAA); an EASA PtF again may fringements of Controlled Air Space in the current nominee finds it almost impossible not grant an aircraft flight in another EU London Area. to attend the meetings. Member State and lastly a PtF aircraft Farnborough LARS covers: cannot be hired out but can be operated by Gatwick 0012/126.825 GUILD PANEL OF EXPERTS As part of a group (max 20). City 0012/132.7 the process of improving and broadening Luton 0013/129.55 the image of the Guild and providing PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACONS (PLB) Stansted 0013/120.625 expert advice to the media, we are With the advent of smaller and cheaper However, if working Farnborough LARS, constructing a 'Panel of Experts' who PLBs, it may be sensible to carry one at all expect a specific Squawk would be happy to provide appropriate times linked to 406MHz with GPS to locate GAPAN Golf Society LIVERYMAN JOHN MASON (SECRETARY)

The Society ended its year in good heart The quest for the Prince Arthur Cup at social match against BM Algarve Golf having had a full and interesting season in Walton Heath in May was unfortunately Society at Pyrford for the Doug Evans Cup, 2009 starting, as usual, with our AGM not successful and we wait to see if we won (again) by our opponents but enjoyed lunch in March at East Berks Golf Club at will qualify for 2010. In June there was a by all. which Capt Jeff Turner was elected very enjoyable charity match at Our programme for 2010 will be similar, Captain. Golf got under way in April with Gainsborough against the RAF Red providing some very enjoyable and the Margaret Bristow Salver at Badgemore Arrows, losing 2 - 1 but raising £400 competitive golf on good courses at very Park, Henley, won by Associate Member towards a seismometer for the City of reasonable cost. Including Honorary and Bob Piggin, while the Norman Bristow London Academy, Islington. Teams played Associate Members, our numbers totalled Bowl at Chipping Norton in May was won in the Zambia Trust charity day at Mid 32 this year, but in a society whose by Bob Seed. The June event, Captain's Sussex GC, the Newson-Smith Livery membership inevitably grows older by the Day at Hartley Wintney, where the turn- Companies match at East Berkshire GC, year, new members are always needed. So out was 16 members and guests, was won the Midhurst Rotary Club charity day at if you would like to give us a try, you will by Associate Member Ron Attfield and the Cowdray Park, and two teams entered the be sure to receive a very warm welcome, final event in late August for the Autumn Livery Companies Ray Jeffs Cup, finishing whatever your standard. Please contact Golfer was won at Mill Ride by John 8th and 9th out of 25 teams with Mike me through the Guild or at Mason. Bannister placed 3rd of the individual [email protected] We entered several team competitions. scores. The season ended with the very

27 Book Review... IMMEDIATE RESPONSE by Major Mark Hammond DFC RM ASSISTANT TOM EELES

site whilst enveloped in a rom the Heart of the Afghan dust cloud, often in company ‘ Battlefield, a Chinook Pilot's with other helicopters. FExplosive True Story' is written Hammond's description of large across the dustjacket cover of this one night's activity as the book. A Royal Marine helicopter pilot captain of a Chinook flying Chinook helicopters in the RAF is a Immediate Response Team very unusual combination, and this book crew involved in three is a true reflection of that. It is not a book attempts to extract wounded for the faint-hearted or for those who soldiers from Sangin whilst might be upset by the extensive use of under intensive enemy fire is expletives and associated coarse truly incredible; for his descriptive language much favoured by actions that night Hammond military aircrew. The story, nevertheless, is was awarded the gripping. It gives a vivid and realistic Distinguished Flying Cross, a account of Support Helicopter operations possibly unique award for a in Afghanistan, often under intensive Royal Marine and richly enemy fire, as experienced by Major deserved. The author's Hammond. The period described covers appreciation of the skill 2006 to 2008, when the intensity of and bravery of his crew fighting in Afghanistan increased members, particularly the dramatically. The uncomfortable life at non-commissioned rear crew, is clearly helicopter pilot and should be required Kandahar Air Force Base and Camp apparent throughout the book. Military reading for anyone contemplating a acronyms crop up as regularly as Bastion is described in raw detail with no military flying career, and anyone in holds barred. Hammond's flying, mostly expletives but there is a useful glossary at government on whose behalf our troops conducted at night using Night Vision the end of the book, which is illustrated by Goggles, sounds quite horrendously the author's colour photographs. There is are fighting. five percent of the royalties dangerous to your reviewer, a former fixed a cutaway drawing of the mighty Chinook from the sale of this book are being at the end of the book, unfortunately wing fast jet pilot. It seems unbelievable donated to Help for Heroes. that over this period no RAF Chinook was without the key to the numbered j lost to enemy fire, let alone as a components in the drawing. This book is Published by Michael Joseph, an imprint consequence of a misjudged highly highly recommended as a totally realistic of Penguin Books. ISBN 978-0-718-15474-5 hazardous night landing at a small landing description of life on the front line as a £17.99 INTER-LIVERY SKIING COMPETITION

The Ironmongers' Company is arranging and women who are not always able to be a vast area of varied skiing to suit all an inaugural inter-livery ski involved in their Company's affairs to abilities. The other resorts in the Portes du championships to take place in Morzine, represent their own Company and meet Soleil which straddles France and Portes du Soleil, France on 15th and 16th other livery Companies. We have made Switzerland are Avoriaz, Chatel, Les Gets, January 2010. All livery Companies are arrangements with the tourist office for Morgins, Champery to name but a few. invited to send a team of 3 or 4 or subsidised ski lift passes and help with j individual liverymen and women accommodation. We will do everything (including Freemen and Journeymen) to possible to keep the costs low in order to race in slalom, giant slalom and border- encourage as many younger liverymen and cross events to be held over two days. women as possible to be involved. We Each company would be responsible for hope to raise money from the event for the their individual travel arrangements and Lord Mayor's Appeal and other charities. accommodation for the event. If you are interested and/or require We would like to encourage every skier, more detail or help with taxis, whatever their ability and age, to compete ski hire, B&B contact please and the courses will be set accordingly. [email protected] . Morzine is a This an opportunity for those liverymen good family resort with 250 pistes offering

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