Navy Wings Flight Deck December 2018

WINGS December 2018

Flight Deck THE FREE NEWSLETTER FOR N AV Y W I N G S S U P P O R T E R S

navywings.org.uk

From the Chief Executive I am now in my third year in this privileged position and the whirlwind of activity never ceases to amaze me. Navy Wings goes from strength to strength and our collection continues to expand, with 18 fixed and rotary wing aircraft in the Associate collection and the addition of a Wasp in the Core collection. Meanwhile, numbers of Supporters grow apace, our range of merchandise is proving popular and our relationship with our affiliated ship, HMS Queen Elizabeth, continues to blossom.

Contact Us General Enquiries 01935 842005 office@navywings.org.uk Communications Director and Major Donor Fundraising 01935 849200 sue.eagles@navywings.org.uk Operations Manager 01935 456279 katie.campbell@navywings.org.uk Chief Engineer 01935 456433 kevin.bugg@navywings.org.uk Chief Pilot 01935 456997 steve.collier@navywings.org.uk Supporters & Corporate Relations 01935 455685 laila.sadler@navywings.org.uk Press and Media 01935 455685 louise.evans@navywings.org.uk Merchandise 01935 455311 jon.parkinson@navywings.org.uk

NavyWingsUK @NavyWingsUK @Navy_Wings

Front cover photography by Lee Howard

The history, education and innovation represented by our naval aircraft is world-class and we are working closely with the Royal Navy to transfer the RN Historic Flight onto the civilian register. From 1 April 2019, Navy Wings will take full ownership and financial responsibility for these unique heritage aircraft and I am confident that with RN support, we can expand our fundraising efforts to meet this challenge. The entire collection will be renamed the Navy Wings Heritage Flight. The difficulty with all charities is raising awareness that fundraising is required in the first place, but that message is starting to gain momentum and we are on the right track. Finally, let me thank everyone who supports us, whether individuals, corporates or private owners who fund the Associate collection, for without your continued backing these superb examples of flying naval aircraft will be grounded and lost to future generations.

Jock Alexander OBE FRAeS

Thank You!

£1 Million 2019 Target As a nation, the UK understands the value of heritage and does it very well. This year’s Armistice commemorations highlighted the importance of our military heritage ensuring that the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces is never forgotten Our naval aviation heritage is less well known and as our responsibilities and costs increase, we rely on your help to raise the £1 million we need in 2019 to keep our historic naval aircraft flying. Please spread the word to friends and family to help us achieve this. The Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air Arm have never let us down in our time of need. We owe it to the nation to keep our historic aircraft flying for future generations.

Looking Forward

We are at the most exciting period in the Charity’s history as we transition and expand to take on the aircraft of the Royal Navy Historic Flight.

As well as adapting our flying and engineering processes to fully meet civil aviation requirements, we are also adopting a new commercial business model. The experience of operating the Sea Vixen and Sea Fury T20 will stand us in good stead.

The benefits of the new model will include greater freedom to generate innovative income streams and develop our charitable and business aims. This will enable us to offer experience flights, aircraft for special events and high standards of maintenance and conservation. Importantly, we are also actively renewing our focus on partnerships and apprentice schemes with other organisations in the aviation skills and heritage sector.

Our heritage is a national asset and our flying aircraft are a unique and dynamic archive of technological achievement, innovation and history of great rarity value.

As we discover new ways to do things and fulfil a stronger public-facing and educational role, our unrivalled collection of naval aircraft, will be an inspiration.

A History of World Firsts!

As the story of naval aviation continues, F-35 jets are now flying from HMS Queen Elizabeth following the first landing of an F-35 on the carrier by Commander Nathan Gray on 25 September 2018.

Nathan, who was a top graduate at the US Navy Test Pilot School and one of the last to fly the British Harrier, said of his historic landing, “It was a great privilege landing one of the most advanced fifth generation aircraft on the world’s only purpose-built fifth generation carrier!”

From Stringbag to Stealth Jet Earlier this year Nathan visited RNAS Yeovilton to fly in the Swordfish.

“The heritage value of the Swordfish was just extraordinary, enlightening me about so much of our rich aviation history. Whilst Irish linen has been replaced by carbon fibre, the spirit of naval aviation remains unchanged” said Nathan.

Nathan Gray presents Aaron Dunning (17), the youngest sailor onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth with a White Ensign flown in the F-35 when he made his historic landing. Astonishingly, Aaron shares his surname with Squadron Commander Dunning DSC, the first pilot to land an aircraft on a ship underway.

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Supporters Day in June was another great event for the Charity with many making the most of their Supporter benefits to see and experience the aircraft first hand.

This year the event also included interviews with veterans from different eras of naval flying bringing the storytelling and aircraft together.

Supporters Day

“The idea to incorporate veterans’ talks and invite current serving aircrew was very good” said Captain Michael Rawlinson OBE.

Veterans representing the different eras included John Fay, a Swordfish pilot, Captain Fred Hefford OBE DSC AFC, a Naval Test Pilot who flew Sea Furies and conducted Buccaneer and Phantom trials, Tony Hayward who flew Sea Venoms with 894 Squadron in HMS Eagle, Admiral Sir Michael Layard KCB CBE who flew the Sea Vixen and Commodore Bill Covington CBE who flew the Sea Harrier in the Falklands conflict in 1982.

Flight Deck | 2018

WINGS

Associate Collection New arrivals The Navy Wings Associate Collection has been a great success story for the Charity having grown from two to eighteen aircraft in two years.

The initiative to work with private aircraft owners has brought different naval aircraft types into the Navy Wings Collection, enabling the Charity to represent the more complete story of naval flying on the air display circuit.

Wasp HAS.1 XT420 G-CBUI Westland Wasp HAS.1 G-CBUI is another new addition to the Associate Collection this year. Owned by Chris Marsden, G-CBUI will move into the Navy Wings Heritage Flight in 2019, joining the two

The impact of the Associate Collection, which now includes six helicopters, is also delivering benefits in increased profile, income generation and exposure to new audiences.

Swordfish, the Sea Fury pair and Sea Vixen. The Wasp represents the forerunner of all small ship helicopters including the unmanned versions of today. Specifically designed to operate from frigates, the Wasp made a vital contribution to understanding and solving the challenges of flying from small ships at sea.

Tiger Moth T8191 G-BWMK “This year, a Tiger Moth, a second Wasp and a Sea King joined the Collection and the Wessex V gained her Permit to Fly,” said Commander Rick Collins, the Associate Collection Co-ordinator.

“The Associate Collection also came together to make a superb contribution to Shuttleworth Fly Navy Day in June and RNAS Yeovilton Air Day in July.”

Owned by Kevin Crumplin, his immaculate de Havilland DH.82A Royal Navy Tiger Moth vintage biplane trainer is an important and welcome addition to the Associate Collection. Based at Henstridge, ‘Navy Tiger’ made her first appearance at RNAS Yeovilton Air Day.

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Associate Aircraft AVRO Curtiss Type Waterbird G-WBRD AVRO 504K E2977, G-EBHB AVRO 504K G-EROE AVRO 504L E5, G-EASD Bristol Scout Type C 1264, G-FDHB de Havilland DHC-1 Chipmunk 1377, G-BARS

Sea King HU.5 XV666

de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth T8191, G-BWMK

The Westland Sea King is one of the most successful helicopters ever built and having given stalwart service to the Fleet Air Arm for nearly

Douglas AD4-NA Skyraider 126922, G-RADR

50 years, the Charity is delighted to have a Sea King in the Associate Collection. Sea King XV666 is one of the last remaining Sea Kings on

Seafire Mk.XV SR462, G-TGVP

the military register and is now leased to HeliOperations training the German Navy. Having seen service with 826, 706, 814, 824 and 771 Naval Air Squadrons, XV666 is likely to attract great following at Navy Wings events over the coming years.

Seafire Mk.XVII SX336, G-KASX Stinson Reliant 42-46703, N69745 AT-6D Texan 42-85068, G-KAMY Westland Gazelle HT.2 XX436, G-ZZLE Westland Sea King HU.5 XV666 Westland Wessex HU.5 XT761, G-WSEX Westland Wessex HU.5 XT771

AVRO 504K E2977 G-EBHB One hundred years on from the First World War, Navy Wings is fortunate to have three AVRO 504s in the Associate Collection. Built in

Westland Wasp HAS.1 XT420, G-CBUI Westland Wasp HAS.1 XT787, G-KAXT

1918 and owned by Tom Harris, G-EBHB flew seven times this year, clocking up 3.5 hours, a tremendous achievement for an aircraft built a hundred years ago.

Flight Deck | 2018

Swordfish Heritage Day World War Two veterans who flew the Swordfish on Arctic Convoys and in the Battle of the Atlantic returned to RNAS Yeovilton in September for a special Supporters day celebrating the proud heritage of the Swordfish and all who flew, maintained and worked on these iconic biplanes.

Among the veterans attending the Swordfish Heritage Day was John Bowden, above left, who flew on Arctic Convoys; John also survived ‘ditching’ in the freezing waters of the Atlantic. “Five of our veterans were members of the Goldfish Club” said Laila Sadler. “David Barrell, John Bowden and Peter Jinks survived ditching in the Swordfish and John Fay and Bill Reeks survived ditching in Avengers.” David Barrell recounted ditching with a live torpedo fitted and Telegraphist Air Gunner, Peter Jinks, ditched seven times! “I was pretty twitchy after that!” said Peter.

The veterans shared their stories with Supporters and current serving aircrew in a series of ‘fireside chats’, re-living the years in which they took part in some of the most bitterly fought campaigns in which Britain and her Allies have ever been engaged.

“Bringing the veterans together with the only flying Swordfish Mk1 in the world was very poignant” said Sub Lieutenant Jonty Inderwick.

“Hearing their experiences really made me appreciate what it must have been like flying in open cockpits in the mid-Atlantic. They helped turn the tide of the war. It was very inspiring” continued Jonty.

Pilots, Observers, Telegraphist Air Gunners and Maintainers were all represented including two veterans with the Arctic Star.

Swordfish hero, Lieutenant Commander Eugene Esmonde VC DSO was represented by his nephew, above right, also named Eugene Esmonde, after his uncle. Eugene Esmonde was awarded the Victoria Cross for his heroic attempt to halt the ‘Channel Dash’ in 1942, leading his Squadron of Swordfish in a torpedo attack against the German battlefleet in the English Channel.

“Our World War Two veterans are the last of a great generation. They flew outdated aircraft, against a determined enemy, in the worst flying conditions in the world - and won” said historian Paul Beaver.

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WW2 Swordfish Heroes 21 September 2018

‘

We drew strength from our experiences in the Swordfish. Please help to support her as she helped save so many.

‘

Lieutenant Commander Ralph Jameson VRD RNVR (95), who flew 27 aircraft types in his flying career, told Paul Beaver of the day in March 1944 when Royal Navy test pilot Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown made aviation history, landing a Mosquito on a carrier. “It was luck that I was onboard HMS Indefatigable that day” said Ralph. “It was the first landing of a twin-engined aircraft on a carrier deck in the world and everyone felt a great sense of achievement.”

Peter Jinks Telegraphist Air Gunner

Flight Deck | 2018

Photography by Lee Howard

Time Flies!

Navy Wings Trustee, Tim Manna, who has generously given his time and commitment to the Charity for over 20 years was given a surprise flight in the Swordfish in August as a big thank you! Tim, who served as a US Navy pilot before going into banking with JP Morgan and Merrill Lynch, is a passionate collector of vintage warbirds. “I don’t know where the years have gone!” said Tim “I have enjoyed every minute and flying in the Swordfish was a truly memorable experience.” Tim’s T6 Harvard and Seafire Mk XVII are key aircraft in the Navy Wings Associate Collection.

Totally Inspirational!

Navy Wings Ambassadors, including motor racing legend Derek Bell MBE were invited to lunch onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth in June.

Ambassadors help raise funds for Navy Wings through their influence and endorsement and the visit to the carrier was an opportunity for the Charity to say thank you.

“It was a totally inspirational day!” said Derek. Other Ambassadors at the lunch included musician, songwriter and founding member of Genesis, Mike Rutherford and Alumni Ambassador, Sir Mark Thomson Bt.

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FLEET AIR ARM AWARDS in Association with Navy Wings The achievements of the Fleet Air Arm’s most outstanding men and women of today were celebrated at a special ceremony in the House of Commons in October, attended by Members of Parliament, the head of the Fleet Air Arm, Rear Admiral Keith Blount CB OBE and hosted by Marcus Jones MP. Award winners were congratulated by their constituency MPs and the Deputy Speaker, the Rt Hon Dame Eleanor Laing MP.

beyond the call of duty. “They are the leaders, team players and change-makers of the future” said Keith. This year’s top award went to an exceptional winner, Leading Air Engineering Technician Marko Jejna for his outstanding work on the F-35.

Reaching for the Sky A remarkable and quite

Photography SAC Kitty Barrett

The annual awards, sponsored

by Navy Wings Ambassador, Keith Knowles OBE, recognise not only the highest level of professional performance but those who contribute above and

“Marko Jejna has achieved a highly impressive level of expertise and qualification in both the UK and US Marine Corps and is one of only five UK engineers qualified to ground run the F-35” said Keith Blount. “His focus, knowledge and commitment has enhanced the UK F-35 programme immeasurably.”

exceptional winner, LAET(M) Marko Jejna, is presented with a Bremont watch by Navy Wings Ambassador and co-founder of the British Watch Company Bremont, Nick English (left) and Rear Admiral Keith Blount CB OBE (right).

Legacy Giving When you leave a gift in your will, you provide the financial help that enables us to plan for the longer term, buying or restoring an engine or undertaking a major restoration project. John Osmond served as an Air Engineer Officer with the Fleet Air Arm during the Falklands conflict and has pledged a legacy to Navy Wings.

“Since 1909, the founding principle of naval flying has been problem solving and innovation. Our heritage is remarkable, and I am pleased to leave a legacy to ensure that the technological achievement of naval aviation continues to inspire young engineers of the future.”

John Osmond Navy Wings Legator

Flight Deck | 2018

Corporate Partnerships Navy Wings relies on the support of our corporate partners and in recent years these partnerships have doubled, impacting in a positive and transformational way on the work of the Charity.

Traditionally recruited from the defence sector, companies from industry and private enterprise are now coming onboard, inspired by the innovation of our heritage and the unique setting we offer for off-site visits.

Hospitality Industry Support Navy Wings has several corporate partners in the hospitality industry, including Beds & Bars, who generously host events and run the Beds & Bars Awards, raising profile and giving recognition to young people working in the Fleet Air Arm today.

CEO of Beds & Bars, Keith Knowles OBE said, “I believe in

‘

putting people first and

The Wadworth marketing team visited the Navy

like to help in ways that

Wings Heritage Centre in the summer and

are not just about

Wadworth also donated a magnificent hand

money but much more

painted Swordfish pub sign for auction at the

about inspiring others.

Armistice Centenary Dinner in October.

Beds & Bars has a

My hope is that the

long history of

Beds & Bars charitable

working with

partnership with Navy

‘

charities and

making a difference

Wings will give the Charity the support it needs to make a real

Nominate Navy Wings in Your Company Giving Programme

helps the Charity in a range of ways and with

We are always grateful when a Supporter nominates Navy Wings as their chosen charity in their company’s annual giving programme and are delighted to offer you a personal visit.

Bring a friend from work or a family member.

whom we enjoy a special synergy with our

Payroll Giving

Swordfish aircraft and Wadworth Swordfish Ale, a

If your company offers Payroll Giving you can

blend of Wadworth beer and Pusser’s Navy Rum.

pay your annual subscription to Navy Wings in

Each time a pint is sold, Navy Wings receives a

this way. Just £3 a month provides all the

donation and as a result, Wadworth has become a

benefits of Supporter membership

regular donor.

navywings.org.uk

Keith Knowles OBE

step-change.”

Wadworth & Co is another corporate partner who

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WINGS

Annual Networking Dinner Firmly established as a highly successful Charity networking event, this year’s dinner was held in the historic Vintners’ Hall in the City of London.

Open to all, the evening provides an opportunity for corporate partners, senior industry and military leaders, and Fleet Air Arm veterans working in aerospace and defence to catch-up, build connections and share ideas in relaxed and prestigious surroundings.

Guests included the Vice Chief of Defence Staff and Royal Navy Fleet Commander who gave a powerful and entertaining overview of naval aviation today. The generosity of Historic Helicopters Chairman, Andrew Whitehouse, saw a rare bottle of Navy Rum raise £600 in the auction and John Runyard won an experience flight in the Charity’s Sea Fury. The 2019 Dinner will be held at the Honourable Artillery Company. Details from laila.sadler@navywings.org.uk

Swordfish Golf Tournament

Our annual Charity Golf Fundraiser at Bowood Hotel and Golf Resort was as

Beds & Bars Awards The Beds & Bars Awards, now in their fifth year, are testament to the long-term engagement of Beds & Bars and their commitment to Investors in People.

Awarded to Junior Ratings who have performed with distinction and stood out from their peer group, the awards are made three times a year. The winners receive a trip to London and weekend break in Europe.

The autumn award winners were LAET TrowbridgeSmith, above and LSC Tom Williams, below.

popular as ever this year seeing fierce competition from 19 teams. Wadworth Brewery Shire horses and dray added distinctive heritage value to the day.

Leonardo valiantly regained their champions’ title in their tournament with the Royal Navy whilst the overall winners of the Swordfish trophy were Church House Investments.

Flight Deck | 2018

Nearly 40,000 visitors enjoyed a spectacular day of flying at RNAS Yeovilton Air Day in July.

Heritage is always an important part of the event and a highlight this year was the display by the Navy Wings Sea Fury T20 and its adversary, a MiG-15 jet, similar to the one famously shot down by Sea Furies in combat over North Korea in 1952.

INTERNATIO

AIR DA RNAS YEOVILTON

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15UTI led the Sea Fury demonstrating the high speed of the aircraft and giving the crowd an exciting taste of carrier air combat 65 years ago.

“Bringing Fleet Air Arm Battle Honours to life through historic aircraft demonstrates the immense value of the UK’s naval aviation heritage” said pilot of the Sea Fury, Lieutenant Commander Chris Götke AFC. “The Sea Furies were operating from HMS Ocean just as F-35 jets will operate from HMS Queen Elizabeth anywhere in the world” continued Chris.

“The encounter on 9 August 1952 was the first time a jet had been shot down by a British piston-engined fighter in the Korean War. The four Sea Furies were outnumbered two to one by the enemy MiGs and whilst the modern, swept-wing jets were faster, they were outmanoeuvred by the agility of the Sea Fury.”

The MiG from the Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron was flown by Kenneth Mette Aarkvisia. The two aircraft flew in fighting wing formation delighting spectators with the Sea Fury chasing the MiG through its gunsight.

Veteran Sea Fury pilot, Brian ‘Schmoo’ Ellis, who took part in the historic dogfight in 1952, watched the display. “It was great to see the two aircraft together” said Schmoo “The actual attack happened so quickly, but I remember it was pretty daring flying against the odds!”

Navy Wings Supporters Marq

and private viewing

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NAL Navy Wings aircraft display at air shows around the country but there is no better place than RNAS Yeovilton, the home of the Fleet Air Arm, for you to see your support in action!

Join us for lunch in the Navy Wings marquee, walk through history with our explainers in the aircraft static park and shop in our new 1,300 square foot merchandising pavilion!

Photography by Lee Howard

AY

Your Support In Action!

quee

g enclosure

Flight Deck | 2018

Admiral Sir John Treacher KCB, a veteran of the Arctic Convoys and President of the Charity for many years,

Crash Site of WW2 Hellcat Pilot Found 74 years on

died in April, aged 93.

A charismatic leader, successful both in the Royal Navy and in business, Sir John took a great interest in the Navy’s aviation heritage, through his Presidency of the Swordfish Heritage Trust and its development into the Fly Navy Heritage Trust and Navy Wings of today.

Lieutenant Commander Ron Richardson RNZNVR was listed ‘missing presumed killed’ after failing to return from an attack

Sir John was a passionate

on the Tirpitz in a Norwegian fjord on 24 August 1944.

advocate of carrier aviation, his autobiography ‘Life at Full Throttle’ having been inspired by flying Seafires in Korea and overseeing the introduction into service of the Skyraider and Phantom.

Commanding Officer of 1840

now Commander (Air) HMS

Naval Air Squadron, Ron’s

Prince of Wales. “My grandfather

Squadron was part of a strike

was last seen taking-out a

force of 40 Barracuda bombers

German radar station, sweeping

and 50 fighters, including

low over the facility with his

Corsairs, Hellcats and Fireflies.

arrestor gear down deliberately ripping out the aerials. It was an

Later he famously fought the Sea Harrier decision through the MOD to its hugely successful service in the Falklands War. His great influence also shaped appointments with aerospace game-changers of the time, Westland Helicopters and Meggitt. Sir John was a

For 74 years his widow, Navy

incredibly daring attack but

Wings Supporter, Sheila

sadly, as he climbed away he

Thomson (95) did not know what

was hit by anti-aircraft fire and

had happened to him but this

then lost in cloud.”

summer, his son, grandson and grandchildren went to Norway

“Finding his aircraft was a hugely

and found the crash site of Ron’s

moving experience” continued

Hellcat preserved in snow and

Phil. The aircraft is only visible in

ice since 1944, 3,000 feet up a

summer when the snow recedes.

mountain.

It gave us a great sense of pride and closure. My grandfather was

generous supporter of the Charity and left an annual bursary to support the Trust’s education programme.

Ron’s grandson, Commander

Mentioned in Despatches and

Phil Richardson OBE was so

the legacy of his courage lives on

inspired by the bravery of the

in the aircraft of the Navy Wings

grandfather he didn’t know, that

Collection.”

he joined the Fleet Air Arm and is

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Night Vision 25 October 2018

The Navy Wings Night Shoot, in association with Threshold Aero, raises over ÂŁ5,000 a year for the Charity. Attended by some of the top aviation photographers in the country, this year for the first time the Sea Harrier FA2, loaded with missiles, guns and bombs, was the star attraction. A ground run by a Merlin HC Mk 4 and the addition of a Wildcat AH1 and Wasp made for a very impressive line-up.

Photography by Lee Howard

Flight Deck | 2018

Sea King Simulator Experience Navy Wings Corporate partner, HeliOperations, who bought the Sea King Simulator at RNAS Culdrose in October, has offered the Charity a unique fundraising opportunity providing flight experiences for groups and individuals to take to the skies in this world class military helicopter simulator.

WIN

Visits can be tailored to suit your requirements from

over Afghanistan, deliver Special Forces to an oil rig

an exhilarating team building experience, to

or rescue a survivor in a life-raft. You will also

packages for smaller groups or individuals seeking a

experience using Night Vision Goggles and taking

more premium, bespoke or immersive day.

evasive action against enemy fire. Further details

Experience a range of missions as your instructor

seaking.experience@navywings.org.uk.

CO SO MIN ON G !

shows you how to land on a ship at sea, fly low-level

BMW R nine T Racer

Bahnstormer Custom Edition Motorbike!

2019 RAFFLE Tickets ÂŁ10 each Online from January Supporting Naval Charities WINGS

navywings.org.uk

Promoter: Navy Wings, RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester, Somerset BA22 8HT Licensed by the Gambling Commission Terms and Conditions visit navywings.org.uk

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Oily Rag Navy Wings Engineering Workshop Wednesday 5 December 09.00 - 13.00 Tickets ÂŁ20 Our engineers carry out highly skilled restoration, machine work and engine rebuilds. Meet individual engineers working on the Sea Vixen, Swordfish and Sea Fury and enjoy a tour of the heritage hangar.

Book online at Throughout 2018 our engineers have worked hard to get

navywings.org.uk

the aircraft in the best possible condition to transfer them to

or call 01935 455685

the civil register in preparation for change of ownership from the Royal Navy to Navy Wings.

Swordfish LS326 is on schedule to receive her new engine in the New Year and the aim is that she will join Swordfish W5856 in the skies for the 2019 display season. The Sea Fury T20 is at North Weald for routine winter maintenance and the Sea Fury FB11 is under suspended maintenance until funds become available for her engine rebuild. The Sea Hawk is in dry storage ready for when the Charity is in a position to fund her return to the skies.

The Sea Vixen team continue to assess damage and build a plan to return XP924 to flight following the wheels up landing in May 2017. This year has also provided an opportunity to carry out long term deep maintenance. In parallel the team is in discussion with external organisations regarding design authority for the rebuild.

This is a big project and we need the help of our Supporters to help fund the return to flight. Supporters can help by donating and shopping on the Navy Wings Store visit navywings.org.uk.

Become a Navy Wings Supporter today and receive our monthly e-news online

Flight Deck | 2018

Prince Michael of Kent Praises Work of Navy Wings HRH Prince Michael of Kent GCVO was the Charity’s Guest of Honour at the Shuttleworth Fly Navy Air Show at Old Warden in June.

Speaking with Navy Wings aircraft owners and aircrews, Prince Michael showed great interest in the history of each aircraft and expressed his admiration for the work of Charity.

Fly Navy is the only airshow in the country where the flying

The flying display included an

display is almost exclusively

unprecedented number of Navy

naval aircraft and this year’s

Wings aircraft including the

airshow in glorious sunshine was

Swordfish, Sea Fury, Bristol

an unrivalled showcase of naval

Scout, Stinson Reliant, Navy

aviation heritage.

Gazelle and Westland Wasp. The Catalina, Corsair, Grumman

With the Bristol Scout, three Avro

Wildcat and Sea Hurricane also

504s, the Swordfish and Sea

gave impressive displays.

Hurricane, all classic aircraft of their era, positioned in front of

“The day was a tremendous

the Navy Wings Ambassadors

success, fulfilling the Charity’s

Marquee the day was described

aims to educate, inspire and

by one of our guests as

remember in a powerful way”

“marvellous, magnificent, moving

said Sue Eagles,

and memorable!”

Communications Director.

To see three Avro 504s together

“The Merlin HM Mk 2 from 820

is a rare occurrence and in this

Naval Air Squadron was also a

Centenary year of the end of the

great attraction, making the link

First World War, was a deserving

from heritage to current

tribute for this outstanding

operations and the future.”

aircraft.

Navy Wings was delighted to welcome members of the Fleet Air Arm Squadron to afternoon tea in the Ambassadors’ Marquee. The Fleet Air Arm Squadron is a non-military organisation with a shared interest in supporting Royal Navy flying.

One of the Squadron members who attended was longstanding Navy Wings Supporter, Commander John Ford (pictured right) who saw active service during the Suez Campaign and was Commander (Air) of both RNAS Yeovilton and HMS Ark Royal.

FLEET AIR ARM SQUADRON

Photography by John Goodman

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Flight Deck | 2018

895 Naval Airmen lost their lives in the First World War

Navy Wings celebrated this

collection before dining in the

The Captain of HMS Queen

year’s Centenary of the end of

stunning atrium courtyard. The

Elizabeth, Captain Nick Cooke-

the First World War with a

former sculpture garden was

Priest OBE, who was among the

spectacular Armistice Dinner at

spectacularly decorated with

guests, spoke of the close

Hertford House, home of the

naval ensigns and illuminated

affiliation between Navy Wings

Wallace Collection in London on

urns of poppies. “It made me feel

and the carrier and thanked

9 October.

very proud” said Ambassador,

Rodger personally for his

Lars Steffensen.

generosity and support.

Themed ‘An Evening to Remember’, the historic setting

The evening included an auction

provided a perfect backdrop to

which raised over £60,000 to

pay tribute to the Royal Naval

support the work of the Charity.

Air Service and the 895 officers

One of the star lots, the Ensign

and men who lost their lives in

flown by HMS Queen Elizabeth

the Great War.

during her maiden voyage from Rosyth to Portsmouth, sold for

Guests enjoyed a champagne

£14,000 to Navy Wings

reception and private view of the

Ambassador, Rodger Dudding.

Photography by Charlie Davies

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AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

Flight Deck | 2018

Legend Among Icons Swordfish Mk1 W5856 had a very successful year completing all her air show appearances around the country.

“It’s a tribute to this remarkable aircraft that she continues to fly in her eighth decade” said Lieutenant Commander Glenn Allison.

“She started the season with Abingdon air show and Supporters Day followed by Shuttleworth, Yeovilton, Blackpool, East Fortune and Sunderland. The welcome wherever we went was fantastic.

We also flew over HMS Ringtail where there was a huge turnout of people.”

Navy Wings Supporter, Lawrence Critchley, said “The flyby over Burscough was greatly appreciated honouring the town’s naval past. The Swordfish was based at HMS Ringtail during the war and people still have a great affection for the aircraft.”

“After a few years of engineering challenges, it was rewarding for the flight to have such a brilliant season” said Chris Götke. “The aircraft was flown by an experienced team and it was a great team achievement. The engine had to be inspected every 15 hours and the scheduling of inspections around the display programme was a credit to everyone.”

Swordfish Mk1 W5856

Royal Navy Display Pilot for 15 Years Commanding Officer of the Royal Navy Historic Flight for the past five years, Lieutenant Commander Chris Götke AFC, handed over command to Lieutenant Commander Mark Jameson in October.

Chris, who flew as a volunteer pilot with the Flight for ten years before becoming Commanding Officer, is uniquely qualified as the Royal Navy’s Sea Fury, Sea Hawk, Seafire and Swordfish display pilot and has become as much a legend in aviation circles as the aircraft he flies! “Mark is taking on the Flight at a critical time as the Royal Navy prepares to transfer the aircraft to Navy Wings next year” said Chris.

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Why we

Support Navy Wings Sub Lieutenants Aren Tingle and Andy Jones

“Navy Wings is a great organisation with a strong sense of purpose. We’re proud to be Supporters. Everyone should join!

The Best in the Business!

Once you start reading about our heritage you can’t stop! The Tim Boughton, a Trustee and

stories are real page-turners making you realise the great fundraiser for the Fly Navy

significance of the aircraft and our amazing history.”

Heritage Trust for ten years, pictured centre, stepped down

Matthew Houghton “I have loved aeroplanes since I was a boy

at the end of last year and was

and having worked with the Fleet Air Arm,

presented with a thank you gift

I understand how important it is to keep

by Chairman Rear Admiral Tom

these aircraft flying. Keeping the stories

Cunningham CBE and Chief

alive also helps to remember the ethos of

Executive, Commodore Jock

naval flying and the bravery of those who

Alexander OBE. Tim played a

have flown in the Naval Service.”

leading role in establishing the Trust’s cadre of Ambassadors

Leading Hand Dean Stello “I joined the Charity Navy Wings because it

and raised tens of thousands of pounds through major donor

is important to let people know what the

fundraising. “Tim is the best in

Fleet Air Arm has done for our country. The

the business” said Tom

Charity provides a great opportunity to be a

Cunningham. “He made a lasting

part of the Navy's heritage, to give back

contribution to the work of the

and help keep the aircraft flying as a lasting

Charity and we wish him well for

legacy for future generations.”

the future.”

At Ease!

Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose held a very successful Heritage Day this year including an all ranks and rates dinner in the evening raising funds for Navy Wings. A new initiative, ‘Ease Springs for Navy Wings’ introduced at the dinner by Commander Jason Phillips OBE, proved very popular! For those in the know, who have to go, it was a great relief, providing extra funds in the pot! Commander Jason Phillips, pictured right, handed over a cheque for £175 to Commodore Bill Covington CBE.

Flight Deck | 2018

Volunteers Noticeboard The Navy Wings community relies on our fantastic team of volunteers who help at air shows and events, provide technical expertise and go that extra mile to raise the funds we need to keep our aircraft flying.

Over 30 volunteers attended our Volunteers Day last February. “Volunteers are making a real difference to the work of the Charity” said Chief Executive Jock Alexander.

“The experience, knowledge and great attitude to life of those now coming forward is really helping us step-up to the challenges ahead.”

Merchandise Sales Maggie and Bryan Keet do a magnificent job supporting the Chari ty at air shows and events around the co untry selling Navy Wings merchandis e.

Explainers

ollier and s, ‘Skips’ C le g a E y n o n hand lair, T plainers, o x Andy Sinc E y a D ir A aircraft. gs help as about the c li Nigel Mag b u p e th embers of to talk to m

Any Volunteers?

Visits and Education We are particularly looking for volunteers to give guided tours for visiting groups and to support our education programme.

Special Projects If you have expertise in air or electrical engineering, avionics, airworthiness, survival equipment, spares control or flying and maintaining heritage aircraft we would love to hear from you. Our next Volunteers Day is on Monday 11 February 2019. To get involved contact office@navywings.org.uk

Fundraising and Events

Derek Bon d helps at Supporte ‘There is a r days. tremendo us esprit d in the Nav e corps y Wings c ommunity Derek “ma ” said de even m ore specia great peo l by ple!”

AT E E

SA T V D H

E

27

Gift of Membership The Perfect Christmas Gift for Friends and Family Christmas is the time for giving so why not give Navy Wings Supporter membership to a friend, family member or even yourself! Perfect for anyone who loves aviation, Navy Wings membership includes privileged access to the Navy Wings collection of historic naval aircraft, discounted entrance to events, air shows, museums and Supporter days and Navy Wings Dine card with up to 50% discounts at restaurants countrywide. For just £35.00 your gift comes beautifully packaged in a gift box with certificate of membership, Navy Wings pen and lapel pin. To purchase Navy Wings membership simply visit our website navywings.org.uk/gift Navy Wings is committed to preserving and promoting the Nation’s naval aviation heritage for future generations.

Flight Deck | 2018

Making a Gift Increase your annual subscription The annual subscription to be a Supporter is £30, however, if you feel able to give more this is a great way to help our annual giving programme.

Give the Gift of Membership to Friends and Family By giving the gift of membership you give others the opportunity to be a part of the Navy Wings community.

Take part in fundraising activities Our calendar of events includes plenty of opportunities to get involved or run a fundraiser with your squadron, club or friends.

Make a Donation Making a donation, especially if you are happy for us to claim Gift Aid, is an easy and flexible way to give and is always greatly appreciated.

Shop at the Navy Wings Flight Store Whatever your interest in British aviation the Navy Wings Flight store has something for everyone with generous discounts for Supporters and Alumni Associations.

Leave a Legacy in Your Will Leaving a legacy in your will is a lasting way to give to future generations.

Raise money for Navy Wings every time you shop online Every time you shop online select Fly Navy Heritage Trust as your chosen charity and a donation will be made to Navy Wings. It’s simple, easy and free.

Diary Dates 2019 Monday 11 February Volunteers Day, RNAS Yeovilton Thursday 14 March Navy Wings Night Shoot Thursday 14 March Company Dinner The Honourable Artillery Company London Thursday 9 May RNAS Culdrose Heritage Day Saturday 11 May Navy Wings Associates Fly In and Supporters Day

Make Fly Navy Heritage Trust your favourite charity on AmazonSmile. Shop smile.amazon.co.uk and every time you shop, Amazon gives to Navy Wings.

Tuesday 11 June Swordfish Golf Tournament Bowood Country Club, Devizes Saturday 13 July RNAS Yeovilton Air Day Navy Wings Supporters Marquee Friday 20 September Navy Wings Supporters Day The Fleet Air Arm in the Battle of Britain

Shop online with easyfundraising.org.uk and select Fly Navy Heritage Trust as your chosen charity raising money for Navy Wings as you shop.

As you buy from eBay go through the check-out process and select Fly Navy Heritage Trust as your chosen charity raising money for Navy Wings as you shop.

Navy Wings brings together the aircraft, people and story of the Nation’s naval aviation heritage.

Navy Wings is a brand of the Fly Navy Heritage Trust, a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England & Wales No 5971284 Registered charity no. 1117272.

Tuesday 22 October Ambassadors Dinner London Thursday 24 October Navy Wings Night Shoot

Navy Wings Heritage Centre South Dispersal RNAS Yeovilton Ilchester Somerset BA22 8HT 01935 842005 office@navywings.org.uk

navywings.org.uk If you no longer wish to receive mail from Navy Wings please call 01935 842005 or visit navywings.org.uk to unsubscribe.