Paul Bonhomme awarded Segrave Trophy
28 JuLY 2010 - Photos: Jarrod Cotter

Paul Bonhomme was awarded the prestigious Segrave Trophy on 28 June 2010 at the Royal Automobile Club on Pall Mall in London. Paul joins a very distinguished list of UK motorsport and aviation legends who have received the trophy, including Amy Johnson, Malcolm Campbell, Geoffrey de Havilland, John Derry, Peter Twiss, Stirling Moss, Donald Campbell, AW ‘Bill’ Bedford, Wg Cdr Ken Wallis, Brian Trubshaw, Jackie Stewart, Gp Capt John Cunningham, Barry Sheene, Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill and Lewis Hamilton.

Paul was the 2009 Red Bull Air Race World Champion and is the most successful pilot in the series’ history, with 13 career victories. He is the 60th recipient of the award which has been presented since 1930 and is named after Sir Henry Segrave, a fighter pilot in World War One who later became the first British driver to win a Grand Prix in a British car. It is presented annually to the outstanding Briton in the field of transportation. Paul commented: "I feel incredibly proud to have been considered, let alone selected, to receive the Segrave Trophy."

At the time of the presentation Paul was leading the 2010 Red Bull Air Race World Championship after victories in Abu Dhabi and New York. Paul had won six of the last 12 races and is soon going to be flying in his 50th race on 7-9 August at the Euro Speedway in Lausitz, Germany.

Ben Cussons, Chairman of the Segrave Trophy Nominations Committee, said: "On behalf of the Royal Automobile Club we are delighted to award the Segrave Trophy to Paul Bonhomme for his achievements in the world of aviation. Air Racing takes incredible skill and only the best pilots in the world are capable of competing in these demanding events - it is truly Formula One in three dimensions.

"The Segrave Trophy Roll of Honour stretches back to 1930 and includes luminaries from all forms of endeavours on land, on water and in the air. The Segrave has a long association with endeavours in the air; in fact the first three recipients in 1930, ’31 and ’32 were all presented to pilots, including Amy Johnson for her epic return flight from England to South Africa. Paul Bonhomme becomes the 21st person from the world of aviation to receive the Segrave Trophy and the third this century; the others being Tim Ellison in 2001, the first disabled pilot to fly around the world, and aerobatics pilot Brian Lecomber in 2003.

"Paul Bonhomme’s aviation career speaks for itself and on behalf of The Royal Automobile Club I congratulate him on his achievements but we, the members of the Segrave Trophy Nominations Committee, wanted to recognise this British World Champion and it is for this reason Paul Bonhomme is awarded the 2009 Segrave Trophy."

Paul Bonhomme concluded: "I was totally, totally honoured by it. You look at the names on there - it goes back to 1930, and I’m the 60th recipient. And my birthday is the same as Sir Henry Segrave, after whom the trophy is named."

Present at the award were several past recipients including Sir Stirling Moss, Wg Cdr Ken Wallis, Wg Cdr Andy Green, Allan McNish and Brian Lecomber. They all posed for a photograph by the trophy with the latest recipient. Paul’s race-winning aircraft was placed in the reception hall of the Royal Automobile Club making a great impression on those arriving at the venue for the occasion.

Wellington bomber moves out of Hendon
28 JuLY 2010

On 1 July 2010 Vickers Wellington MF628 moved from the Royal Air Force Museum’s London site at Hendon, to the Michael Beetham Conservation Centre (MBCC) at Cosford for an extensive restoration programme.

The Wellington is a much-loved exhibit which has been on display since the RAF Museum opened. It is also a film star in its own right and appeared in the 1955 film The Dam Busters.

A rare remaining example of its kind, it is famous for its geodetic fuselage structure designed by Barnes Wallis. The fabric covering to this structure is in desperate need of replacement and this will take place at the museum’s world-class conservation centre, the MBCC at Cosford in the West Midlands. Visitors to the MBCC’s popular ‘Open Weeks’ throughout the year will be able to monitor the progress of the Wellington as it is dismantled and checked for corrosion before the mammoth task of recovering it begins.

Meanwhile restoration work on Douglas A-20G Big Nig has recently made good progress with the starboard inner wing fitted and both engines are ready for installation. Fitting out of the cockpit is about to begin. The museum is looking forward to hopefully having the A-20G on display at its London site sometime in early 2011.

Waddington International Air Show 2010
28 JuLY 2010 - Photos: Jarrod Cotter

This year’s Waddington International Air Show, held on 3-4 July at the Lincolnshire air base, had its main themes as the commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the first RAF Air Pageant held on 3 July 1920 at RAF Hendon, the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 20th anniversary of the arrival of the E-3D Sentry AWACS at the base. For the Hendon 90th representative types from the relevant decades carried out a series of flypasts and there was a static display of early types. For the Battle of Britain 70th there was a simulated airfield attack followed by a dogfight including Spitfires, Hurricanes and a ‘Messerschmitt Bf109’. For the AWACS commemoration other operators of the type were invited to arrive at the base to be included in a ground display.

On the jet flying front the Turkish Stars F-5 aerobatic display team of the Turkish Air Force made Waddington Air Show their only UK appearance this year and it was the first time they have ever attended this event. Of course the RAF’s own nine Hawks of the Red Arrows also performed at what is considered their ‘home’ air show as they are based just several miles north at RAF Scampton.

With the Harrier now withdrawn from Afghanistan, after a gap of several years there was the welcome return of the VSTOL jet performing a ‘role demonstration’ rather than a flying display. Visitors were captivated by the aircraft hovering and slowly flying along the runway in front of the crowd line.

On the Thursday press day, news was heard that Vulcan XH558 was carrying out its air test that evening. Its Permit to Fly was issued the following day and after CAA approval to display was gained it performed at the show on both days, much to the delight of the massive crowds.

Another highlight of the air show was the Spitfire and Typhoon synchro display, showing two generations of fighters both still based at nearby RAF Coningsby - the captivating display won one the show’s awards. Judges awarded the prize for the best display to the Czech Gripen, which wowed the crowds with some very dynamic flying.

Gp Capt Richard Powell, Station Commander at RAF Waddington, commented: "We are all absolutely thrilled with the success of this year’s show. Given our ongoing operational commitments, it is a tremendous achievement that RAF Waddington personnel have been able to mount such a spectacular show again this year, and I am grateful for all the hard work that has gone in to making the event a resounding success. Thanks to some superb assistance from the local emergency services and the local authorities we have been able to hold a wonderful event, allowing us to showcase the RAF’s capabilities to families and aviation enthusiasts from across the UK and even parts of Europe."

Last year’s Waddington Air Show attracted some 170,000 visitors, allowing the event to give a donation to charity of £325,000. Of this 42.5% went to the RAFA, 42.5% to the RAF Benevolent Fund and 15% to local charities. At the time of writing this year’s final total was still being calculated, but it is likely that the chosen charities will benefit from similar amounts.

Queen’s Birthday Flypast
15 June 2010 - Photos: Jarrod Cotter

On Saturday 12 June a formation totalling 29 RAF aircraft in eight waves over-flew Buckingham Palace as part of HM The Queen’s Official Birthday celebrations. This is an annual State event, of which the major aspect is The Queen’s Birthday Parade - better known as Trooping of the Colour. After the parade is complete, members of the Royal party return to Buckingham Palace where they stand on the balcony to greet the huge crowds who gather in The Mall. Part of the tradition has become the RAF flypast paying the service’s respects to HM The Queen with an impressive show of its various aircraft types over Buckingham Palace.

In this Battle of Britain 70th anniversary year, it was appropriate that the first elements represented homeland defence past, present and future. Leading the flypast was ‘Memorial Flight’, comprising a Spitfire and Hurricane of the BBMF. This was followed by a four-ship formation made up of two Typhoons and two Tornado F3s.

These were followed by ‘Support to Current Ops’ aircraft made up of waves in the following order and composition: two VC-10s; a Tristar and two Tornado GR4s; a Sentinal R1 and two HS125s; a Nimrod R1 and two Tornado GR4s; three Tornado GR4s. Closing the flypast was the nine Hawk T1s of the Red Arrows trailing red, white and blue smoke.

Rare A-36 flies at Chino
15 June 2010 - Photos: Doug Fisher

North American A-36A 42-83731 (N251A) flew for the first time in around seven years at Chino, California, USA, on 11 May 2010. The rare ground-attack version of the Mustang was flown by Steve Hinton after a restoration by Fighter Rebuilders which included making the dive brakes fully operational as shown one of the photos. Once the A-36 has completed its test flying it will go into the paint shop. UK airshow goers may remember this aircraft making an appearance at 2002 Flying Legends air show at Duxford.

New RAF Museum Director General appointed
15 June 2010 - Photos: Jarrod Cotter

The Royal Air Force Museum Trustees recently announced that Air Vice Marshal Peter Dye OBE has been selected as the Director General, Royal Air Force Museum, with effect from 9 June 2010. Peter Dye is the current Director Collections and Deputy Director General. He has been Acting Director General since 1 February.

Prior to joining the Museum, Peter served in the Royal Air Force for over 35 years. With a degree in aeronautical engineering from Imperial College, he has more than 20 years experience of frontline operations, including the maintenance and support of numerous aircraft types ranging from the Victor and Vulcan to the Jaguar and Tornado. He was awarded the OBE for his achievements in support of the Jaguar Force during the Gulf War.

His grandfather and father both served in the RAF during the First and Second World Wars respectively, imbuing him with a deep affection for the Service and a passion for its people, achievements and traditions. This has been reflected in his writing on aviation history and, in 2004, his successful efforts to erect a memorial at St Omer to those members of the British Air Services who had served in France and Belgium during the ‘Great War’. He is currently studying for a part-time PhD, at Birmingham University, on the Royal Flying Corps.

AVM Dye commented: "Since joining the Museum I have been hugely impressed by the enthusiasm and dedication of its staff and their many impressive achievements in the face of considerable challenges. I am delighted to be able to lead the Museum as it builds on these successes and to have the opportunity to work with its many friends and supporters in creating an exciting and innovative future."

Battle of Britain scheme for two-seat Spitfire
15 June 2010 - Photos: Jarrod Cotter

To mark the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain this year, Historic Flying Ltd’s Supermarine Spitfire Tr.IX PV202 (G-CCCA) has been repainted into a 92 Squadron paint scheme of the era with the unit code QV-I. Although this Spitfire is a later variant than those used in the famous aerial conflict of 1940, it is a most appropriate choice of scheme as it is based at Duxford, Cambs, which is a well-known Battle of Britain airfield. This two-seater formerly wore a Royal Netherlands Air Force identity and before that an Irish Air Corps paint scheme.

Battle of Britain Beacon
15 June 2010 - Photos: RAF Museum

At a recent fundraising dinner during, the Royal Air Force Museum announced its vision for the future. As part of its modernisation and development plan the Museum has undertaken the initial planning for a new Battle of Britain Exhibition building at its London site.

The provision of suitable funding, and the agreement with interested parties and authorities with whom the Museum is consulting widely, will dictate when the Trustees of the Museum will take the final decision to proceed with construction.

It is very fitting that in the year of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain the RAF Museum, as part of its modernisation and development plan, has undertaken the initial planning for a new Battle of Britain exhibition building at its Hendon site in London. Provisionally called the ‘Battle of Britain Beacon’, the plan looks towards the construction of a striking, landmark building which will do appropriate justice to this most defining event in the world’s history. The exciting concept will allow wider public access and ensure that the Museum’s unique collection of Battle of Britain aircraft, memorabilia and archives is preserved for the education and enjoyment of future generations. The building in its final form will include the latest audio/visual techniques to bring to life all aspects of the Battle, from the work of the ground crews, whose tireless endeavours kept the aircraft in the air, through the life of the civilian population, to the gallant efforts of those who fought in the skies above Great Britain.

The new exhibition building will complement the successful modernisation already achieved at Hendon with the refurbishment of the Graham White Hangar, the imminent refurbishment of the former airfield watchtower and the opening of Milestones of Flight exhibition building. It will also allow the current somewhat restricted Battle of Britain Hall on the site to be used to display more of the Museum’s aircraft and archive collection. The Museum’s Cosford site has also seen the opening of the impressive National Cold War exhibition building in 2007 which has ensured the preservation of many of the important Cold War aircraft.

Currently the Museum is consulting widely about the ‘Battle of Britain Beacon’ project. The Museum hopes to complete the project within the lifetime of the surviving veterans of the Battle. www.battleofbritainbeacon.org

BBMF gets approval for 2010 season
30 APRIL 2010 - Photos: Jarrod Cotter

Following a period of work-up training, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight successfully passed its Public Display Approval day at RAF Coningsby on 29 April in front of Air Officer Commanding No.1 Group, AVM G J Bagwell CBE MSc RAF. This means the BBMF is now authorised for its many public appearances during the busy 2010 flying season, which notably marks the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

Earlier in the month on Thursday 8th, BBMF hosted visitors from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, representatives from business and industry that work closely with the Flight, plus veterans and the Mayor of Coningsby. The occasion was to receive a national heritage award from the Institution, which are usually given to a single artefact or invention that has earned its place in history.

However, it was decided that the entire flight was an example of engineering excellence and worthy of an award, which went to the Avro Lancaster, Hawker Hurricanes and Supermarine Spitfires cited as “a tribute to the airmen who lost their lives in the service of this country and an inspiration to all.”

BBMF’s Senior Engineering Officer,Warrant Officer Dave Marshall, received the award from Isobel Pollock, Chair of the IMechE’s Heritage Committee who said: “This is the first time such an award has ever been given to a flight. Our Heritage Awards always go to artefacts and engineering exhibits that are unique and inspirational but the BBMF goes even further. The aircraft and their aircrew helped save the lives of so many in the Second World War so this is not just to remember those airmen who died, but to celebrate and acknowledge those alive today. We must also not forget those that have painstakingly restored some of these planes and the Flight itself for the work and legacy in keeping the memory alive.”

Sqn Ldr Ian Smith, Officer Commanding BBMF, said: “The Flight’s aircraft are unique within the modern RAF. The airworthy maintenance, to full flying condition, of these historic airframes falls to 25 aircraft tradesmen headed by a Warrant Officer engineer. They are, in turn, supported by all the necessary back-up provided by their home base, RAF Coningsby. The BBMF aircraft, although relatively simple by modern standards, demand particular skills and understanding that are no longer part of mainstream RAF training programmes. BBMF are exceptionally proud to be given this prestigious award and the honour increases public awareness of engineering, past and present. BBMF increases public awareness of those who have been lost in conflicts, past and present - Lest We Forget.”

The Flight also has a new fighter pilot this season, Flt Lt Mark ‘Maps’ Pearce who carried out his first Hurricane sortie in LF363 on 8 April. He then went on to fly display practices and is now cleared to display at 100ft.

Surprise windfall reprieves Vulcan XH55
15 March 2010 - Photos: Jeff Bloxham

After months of uncertainty, when the prospect of Vulcan XH558 ever appearing at airshows again was looking unlikely, an anonymous donation of over £400,000 has virtually guaranteed its return to airshows this summer.

John Sharman, Chairman of VTST’s Board of Trustees says: “This most significant donation comes  as  a  very  welcome  surprise  on  top  of  all  the  thousands  of  donations  and  pledges received over the past four months from XH558’s incredibly loyal supporters, and has enabled the Board of Trustees now to commit to the wide-ranging and vital engineering programme, and to return XH558 to airshows around the UK this coming summer. On behalf of XH558 and all her supporters, a heart-felt thank-you to all who have helped.”

Including the anonymous donation and all the pledges, VTST has now raised over £900,000 against its original target of £800,000. Because the campaign did not reach its target at the end of December, the start of the winter engineering programme had to be postponed, and will now commence in the next few days.

However,  VTST  will  continue  to  run  its  funding  campaign  under  the  original  ‘50th  Birthday’ banner right up until 25 May, the Golden Anniversary of XH558’s first ever test flight, with the aim of building a sizeable cushion of additional donations as a prudent contingency. This funding  campaign  will  run  alongside  VTST’s  attempt  to  set  a  record  for  the  number  of greetings on a single birthday card, to commemorate XH558’s 50th anniversary.

John Sharman: “It’s vital that we continue our efforts to recruit more supporters from the 2.5 million people who saw XH558 fly last year. VTST’s business plan currently shows ongoing donations as the major revenue stream; we ask all our supporters to do everything they can to spread the word and bring many more people on board to ensure XH558 keeps flying!”

Dr Robert Pleming of VTST said: “Over the past few weeks, we have had countless people say to us that XH558 must carry on flying, and have backed that up with a pledge. But it’s also been very noticeable this year that people are less able to help, even if they would like to – the recession has made the progress of our campaign this year much slower. The timing of this amazing donation could not have been better. I have to believe that XH558 has a guardian angel, who has now appeared more than once to save her when all seems to have been lost!”

Vulcan  XH558  has  attracted  record  crowds  wherever  she  has  appeared,  thrilling  audiences and creating the so-called ‘Vulcan Effect’. As defence becomes an issue of current debate, the Vulcan is a unique reminder of the importance of deterrence as a strategy.

VTST’s plans are now geared to ensuring that XH558 flies down the Mall on 4 June 2012, in celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s – and the Vulcan’s – Diamond Jubilee. These plans will  include  the  launch  of  a  new  Annual  Appeal  running  throughout  the  year,  starting  on XH558’s ‘Birthday’ on 25 May this year, and a further rigorous review of operating costs.

New exhibition shows a snapshot of life at Duxford during the Battle of Britain
15 March 2010 - Photos: IWM

Following  the  popularity  of  the  Duxford  Goes  to  War  exhibition  in  2009,  Imperial War Museum Duxford is now presenting a new photographic exhibition portraying life at RAF Duxford during the Battle of Britain.

The evocative photographs have captured the men and women who served at RAF Duxford at work and play, giving a unique insight into life at a fighter station during World War Two. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the summer of 1940.

During the Battle of Britain, RAF Duxford was a sector station in 12 Group, responsible for directing fighters into battle. It was also responsible for a satellite station at Fowlmere, which was utilised by RAF Duxford fighters. The role of Duxford and Fowlmere was to protect the Midlands and East Anglia from attack and to assist the fighters of 11 Group, protecting London and the South-East.

RAF  Duxford  was home to  pilots  of  many  nationalities  during  the  Battle  of  Britain. In addition to Great Britain, pilots from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Poland and the United States were stationed there.

No.19 Squadron was the only squadron to be based at Duxford or Fowlmere for the entire duration of the Battle of Britain. Over the summer of  1940, many  other squadrons called Duxford ‘home’, flying Hurricanes, Spitfires and even the Defiant turret-fighter.

In addition to fighter pilots, Duxford housed the ground crew and additional staff needed to efficiently run the station, including the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force and civilian personnel undertaking vital communications work in the Operations Room.

During the first months of 1940, Duxford’s squadrons patrolled North Sea  convoys. They then provided aerial cover for the evacuation of Dunkirk, before the Battle of Britain began in earnest in July 1940. By September 1940, Duxford’s squadrons were regularly protecting 11 Group’s  airfields  while  its  squadrons were on sortie. This marked the start of one of Duxford’s famed roles in the Battle of Britain, as the home of the ‘Big Wing’.

This exhibition brings visitors face-to-face with some of the heroic characters who flew from Duxford to win the battle in the skies. Many of the ‘ace’ pilots based at RAF Duxford obtained heroic status. In addition to the celebrated Douglas Bader, pilots such as Brian Lane, ‘Grumpy’ Unwin, ‘Farmer’ Lawson and Wallace Cunningham showed immense courage in the face of the enemy. These fresh-faced young men stare out from iconic black and white images, captured forever at a key moment in wartime history – and unsure of the eventual outcome of the conflict they fought.

Many of the photographs in this exhibition were taken by Stanley Devon, a  photojournalist who was twice-named News Photographer of the Year. An official RAF photographer, he was sent to Duxford during the Battle of Britain to record activities on a typical fighter station. Duxford in the Battle of Britain depicts the prominent role played by RAF Duxford in the aerial combat that changed the course of World War Two.

There is no need to book in advance and admission to this exhibition is included in the standard admission price to the museum.

Duxford in the Battle of Britain forms the start of IWM Duxford’s programme of events commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. The display is in the museum’s ‘AirSpace’ hall and will run from mid-April to December 2010.

Forthcoming events include:

Saturday 15 May
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the RAF Today
Sunday 16 May
Spring Air Show – featuring the very best of the RAF, past and present
Friday 23 July to Tuesday 31 August
Battle of Britain themed summer holiday activities
Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September
The Battle of Britain Air Show
Saturday 11 September
Duxford, Spitfires and the Battle of Britain Special Interest Day

Imperial War Museum Duxford is just south of Cambridge at junction 10 of the M11. Ample free parking is available. For a full list of Duxford’s air shows and other exciting events in 2010, including half term activities for families, visit www.iwm.org.uk/duxford or telephone 01223 835 000.

At least 20 B-25 Mitchell bombers to take part in tribute to Doolittle Tokyo Raiders
15 March 2010

One of the largest gatherings of B-25 Mitchell bombers since World War Two is set to take place as part of a tribute to the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders during their 68th reunion at the National Museum of the US Air Force, 16-18 April, in Dayton, Ohio, USA.

At least 20 aircraft from across the nation are scheduled to land on the runway behind the museum on the morning of 17 April. The aircraft will then be placed on static display from 10am to 4pm, for the public to get an up-close look at each aircraft and meet the pilots and crews.

On 18 April at 1pm, the aircraft will take-off and fly over the museum in a formation flight prior to the Doolittle Raiders Memorial Service in the museum’s Memorial Park.

These outdoor reunion events are weather contingent and subject to change. (See the full reunion schedule including event times at www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/doolittle.asp).

Before and after the museum reunion events, the B-25s will stage out of Grimes Field in Urbana, Ohio, to practice formation flights, and will offer public rides and static displays.

For more information on the events at Grimes Field in Urbana, visit www.champaignaviationmuseum.org.

On 18 April 1942, 80 men achieved the unimaginable when they took off from an aircraft carrier on a top secret mission to bomb Japan. These men, led by Lt Col James H ‘Jimmy’ Doolittle, came to be known as the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Street, six miles north-east of downtown Dayton. It is open 9am to 5pm seven days a week (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). Admission and parking are free.

NOTE TO PUBLIC: For more information, please contact the National Museum of the US Air Force at (937) 255-8048.

RAF Museum’s Sir Douglas Bader anniversary exhibition & podcast launch
12 FEBRUARY 2010

The opening of a new temporary exhibit commemorating Sir Douglas Bader, whose instinctive and extraordinarily spirited contribution to rebutting Luftwaffe air attacks during the Battle of Britain, took place at the Royal Air Force Museum Hendon on 10 February 2010. Bader’s already outstanding wartime achievements are all the more remarkable given that he suffered a double amputation in 1931 following a near fatal crash. In response to his flying accident, Bader committed a typically laconic reflection to his logbook, recalling: ‘crashed slow‐rolling near ground. ‘Bad show’.

In peacetime, Bader increasingly turned his attention to charitable activities on behalf of the disabled. Always sympathetic about the plight of others who had lost limbs, he offered both inspiration and practical advice to those living with disabilities. He was awarded the CBE in 1956 and knighted for his services to amputees in 1976.

“A disabled person who fights back is not disabled….but inspired.”

It is this maxim that the charitable foundation established in Douglas’s name immediately following his death in 1982, seeks to replicate and develop. In this the 70th anniversary year of the Battle of Britain, in which Douglas fought, the RAF Museum’s new exhibit is perfectly timed. As well as information boards, a small exhibition of Bader artifacts, including his logbook, are on display at the London site until 31 March.

The RAF Museum has also announced that as part of its monthly podcast series aviation entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group Sir Richard Branson has generously given his time to narrate this month’s podcast ‘Bader: Fighter Pilot’. The podcast was specially commissioned to mark the centenary of Bader’s birth on 21 February 2010 and forms part of the Museum’s commemoration of the former Battle of Britain pilot in conjunction with the new temporary exhibit. It examines the life of Douglas Bader from his air crash in 1931 - with the loss of both his legs at the knee - through his wartime service as one of the highest scoring aces in the Battle of Britain and his subsequent efforts to escape from German captivity after being shot down and captured in August 1941.

Douglas Bader’s story, however, did not cease with the end of World War Two. Until his death in 1982 Bader worked tirelessly on behalf of disabled people – particularly for the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association. After his death, in keeping with Bader’s spirit, the Douglas Bader Foundation was established to advance and promote the physical, mental and spiritual welfare of persons who are without one or more limbs.

Peter Dye, Director of the Museum’s Collections Division, commenting on the podcast stated: “Douglas Bader was an exceptional individual and an outstanding pilot whose determination to overcome apparently overwhelming odds exemplified Fighter Command’s struggle to save Britain in the summer of 1940. His example has inspired countless others in their own battles with injury or disability while the values shown by Bader and his generation, who gave so much in the defence of freedom, are as important today as they were in 1940.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sir Richard Branson for his narration. I am certain that his support will help us inspire a new generation and ensure that Douglas Bader’s story is never forgotten.”

To listen to the podcast, visit www.rafmuseum.org/podcasts. The Royal Air Force Museum London is open daily from 10am to 6pm, with last admission at 5:30pm. Admission and parking at the Museum is free.

Doolittle and Korean War commemorations
22 January 2010

Two significant military anniversaries will be commemorated in the coming months at the National Museum of the US Air Force.

First, on April 16-18, the Doolittle Raiders will celebrate the 68th anniversary of the historic raid on Tokyo during the opening months of America’s entry into World War Two. The reunion will include a free public autograph session, educational event and memorial service at the museum, as well as a dinner (for a charge). In addition, a free public concert honoring the Raiders will take place at Wright State University's Nutter Center.

June marks the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War. The museum is honoring veterans of this conflict with special events and the renovation of the museum's Korean War exhibit area. Activities take place June 24-26, 2010, and include ‘Dinner Under the Wings’, an exhibit opening reception, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s sixth annual Freedom's Call Military Tattoo, and a ceremony at the Korean War Memorial in downtown Dayton.

As always, Family Day takes place on the third Saturday of each month, Behind the Scenes tours are offered each Friday (registration required) and Heritage Tours take place each day at 1:30pm.

For a complete list of 2010 events at the National Museum of the US Air Force, visit http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/events/index.asp. All events are free and open to the public. If you are interested in further information, please contact me at the information below.

RAF Photo Exhibition to kick up a storm!
22 January 2010 - Photo: Cpl Scott Robertson/Crown Copyright

The winning images from the Royal Air Force’s Photograph of the Year Competition will be on view to members of the public at the RAF Museum from 16 January 2009.

Start date: January 16th
End date: April 16th
Entrance: FREE

The Royal Air Force is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain this year and, as their finest visual communicators prepare for their skills to be in high demand covering a summer of national activity, the RAF photographers are showing off their latest winning pictures at a unique exhibition of RAF Photography at the RAF Museum in North London opening on 16 January.

The Royal Air Force currently has approximately 180 trained photographers all of whom have undertaken a 28 week training course at the Defence School of Photography at Cosford, which provides them with the skill and expertise to gain an NVQ Level 3 standard in photography.

RAF Warrant Officer Andy Whittle, said: “These men and women have superb technical ability and take great pride in their role, striving to attain the highest standards of work in areas as diverse as aerial reconnaissance, portraiture, video, digital imagery, and ceremonial as well as completing tasks in support of the police, post crash management, engineering, medical and dental branches.”

Subject categories range from ‘The Royal Air Force Experience’, production of a single photograph that depicts personnel conducting their day-to-day work to ‘Equipment’ which gives photographers the exciting opportunity to display their skills by capturing the Royal Air Force’s world-class kit. The ‘Sport’ category reflects the Royal Air Force’s commitment to provide opportunities for personal development, leadership and teamwork through both social and competitive sports. There is also a category for the amateur military photographer.

More than 1400 images were entered in the 2009 competition which made the selection of winners extremely difficult. Judging this year was conducted by Mr Adam Sorenson, Daily Mirror Photographer, Mr Dennis Nicholls from Nikon UK and Mr Stan Stabler, a retired Royal Air Force photographer. All were unanimous in their appreciation of the very high standard, quality and diversity of work produced by both Service and civilian photographers. In total over 50 photographs will be on display in the RAF Museum, electronically beamed onto glass screens located in the ‘RAF Today’ area of the Milestones of Flight Gallery. The exhibition will be on show at the Museum’s London site until 16 April when it will then transfer to the Museum’s Cosford’s site in Shropshire.

The Royal Air Force Public Relations ‘Photograph of the year’, the picture which best represents the image, reputation and profile of the Royal Air Force, was taken by Cpl Scott Robertson of the Mobile News Team, Headquarters Air Command. His photograph reflects the recent deployment of the Tornado GR4 in support of operations in Afghanistan (illustrated). 

“It’s fantastic to win the most coveted award of the competition! It’s not every day this happens but you aim for it every day. You want every photograph you take to be Photograph of the Year. It’s good feedback for what we do at Headquarters Air Command as this is our bread and butter.”

Presenter of the awards, Air Vice-Marshal Carl Dixon, commented: “The imagery is inspirational. The RAF is a Service which is opportunity rich in potential and all areas of RAF life have been well represented.

“They have clearly spotted the moment and grabbed it through their lenses – my message to them is ‘keep them coming’ because photography is one of the most important ways of keeping today’s RAF in the public eye.”

Entry to the Royal Air Force Photographer of the Year Exhibition is free of charge to visitors; as is entry and parking to the Museum. The exhibition will be shown daily from 10am to 6pm until 16 April. For further details please visit www.rafmuseum.org/whatson or dial 020 8205 2266.

Bombertown USA returns to Kissimmee Air Museum
22 January 2010 - Words: KT Budde-Jones Photo: Tom Smith

For years Kissimmee Gateway airport was known affectionately as “Bombertown USA”. Visitors could see World War Two era bombers being restored back to their former glory. Those days are returning to Kissimmee, but now visitors will not only be able to see these great planes but fly in them as well. Spring 2010 will see the migration of bombers and other warbirds to the Kissimmee Air Museum.

In March, the beautifully polished B-25 Panchito will return to Kissimmee Gateway Airport and “Bombertown USA” where it was restored 15 years ago.  It will be stationed at the Kissimmee Air Museum for both static tours and flights. Larry Kelley restored the B-25J as Panchito. He and his crew now fly Panchito for the Delaware Aviation Museum Foundation; preserving and sharing the history of the 396th Bomb Squadron, 41st Bomb Group, 7th Air Force, stationed in the Central Pacific that it served with.

The B-25 was produced in greater numbers than any other American twin-engine combat aircraft and was one of the most famous twin-engine medium bombers used during World War Two. It achieved worldwide fame on 18 April 1942 when sixteen B-25s, under the command of Lt Col Jimmy Doolittle, were launched from the aircraft carrier, Hornet, and attacked Tokyo and other Japanese cities in a daring raid. Owner, Larry Kelley, has flown in many Doolittle Raid commemorations including flying some of the ‘Raiders’ in his B-25.

Opportunities to fly in this great bomber are few and far between but on 2, 3 and 4 April 2010 flights will be available in Panchito taking off from the Kissimmee Air Museum. Individuals can experience history up close and personal for a $400.00 donation per passenger. Seating is limited, first come-first served for the Crew Chief ‘jump seat’ behind the pilot/co-pilot, two seats under the top turret, and two waist gunner seats. Make your reservation today by calling 407-870-7366 or email fly@warbirdadventures.com

Another VIP (Very Important Plane) will be visiting the museum this spring, Collings Foundations’ B-25J Tondelayo. This ‘Pacific War Princess’ will be offering to make the dream of flying a Mitchell from the right seat possible. Half-hour flight training is available for $2000.00 while the Mitchell is based at the Kissimmee Air Museum. If interested, contact the Kissimmee Air Museum at 407-870-7366 for more information.

The Collings Foundation is dedicated to preserving and sharing aviation history. Their Wings of Freedom Nationwide Tour is a living history display and flying museum that offers tours and flights their Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, and North American P-51C Mustang. The Collings Foundation’s F4U-5 Corsair has been on display at the Kissimmee Air Museum during the Wings of Freedom’s Tour winter hiatus.
ww.collingsfoundation.org

Kissimmee Air Museum and Warbird Adventures’ T-6 and helicopter flight operations are open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Closed Sundays from July though November. Admission: Adults $6.00, Children under 12 $3.00, Children under 5 free. Located at 233 N. Hoagland Blvd. Kissimmee, FL  34741 407-870-7366

• Older aviation news >>