november 2014 flight deck -...
TRANSCRIPT
November 2014
flight deckSEE INSIDE ...Close CallLt Cdr Chris Götke’s quickthinking and skilled airmanshipsaves historic Hawker Sea Fury
Classic Fleet Air ArmFighter joins collection Last flying Sea Vixen in theworld joins Heritage Collection
Game Changers Ambassadors’ Dinner Raises£136,000!
Restoration of Swordfish W5856Mk 1 Blackfish restored toformer glory
Centenary CelebrationsFleet Air Arm celebrates 100thAnniversary of the formation ofthe Royal Naval Air Service
The Fly Navy Heritage Trust is a charitable company Limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales No. 5971284 Registered Charity No. 1117272
Lt Cdr Götke’s quick thinking andskilful handling put the aircraft onthe ground safely, saving both theaircraft and himself. A witness onthe display line said “I havecomplete and utter respect for thepilot. It was a text book forcedlanding in extremely difficultcircumstances.”
“The aircraft lost power at a criticalpoint in the display” saidCommodore Bill Covington, aTrustee of the Fly Navy HeritageTrust. “Chris did a fantastic job. Asthe aircraft started its descent from
2000 feet significant vibration was felt from theengine. This was initially thought to be the enginerunning rough. Chris closed the throttle gentlyand zooming to height positioned the aircraft forlow key left to the duty runway. With his speedfalling below 200 knots but still expecting to havesufficient power to make the airfield, he loweredthe gear and made an emergency call to the
Tower. Within seconds it rapidly becameapparent, however, that the engine had nouseable power and the glide angle would notallow the aircraft to reach the airfield.”
“The situation was now serious,” continued BillCovington, “the aircraft went into a steep diveand Chris had only seconds to respond to andrecover from a fast moving and hazardouschanging set of circumstances. The gear wasselected up again, the propeller pitch wascoarsened and the flaps extended for maximumlift in order to get the aircraft flying again.Simultaneously, Chris made an assessment of thesurrounding fields with a view to making anemergency landing but the conditions were toodangerous. At this point, with his options rapidlydiminishing Chris felt he may have to jump fromthe aircraft. “It was a horrible, horrible feeling,”said Chris, “but with the wheels retracted againthe glide angle improved and I decided to remainwith the aircraft and attempt a forced landing onthe airfield.”
Preserving the Nation’s Naval Aviation Heritage
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Commanding Officer of the Royal Navy Historic Flight Lt Cdr Chris Götke RN displayedexemplary airmanship when the Fly Navy Heritage Trust’s Hawker Sea Fury T20 G-RNHF(VX281) suffered engine failure during a display manoeuvre at RNAS Culdrose Air Day on 31 July, forcing him to take swift action and carry out a dramatic emergency landing.
EXEMPLARYAIRMANSHIP
SAVES HISTORIC
SEA FURY
SUPPORTING THE ROYAL NAVY HISTORIC FLIGHT, THE FLEET AIR ARM MUSEUM AND ST BARTHOLOMEW’S, THE FLEET AIR ARM MEMORIAL CHURCH
Continued overleaf
Support the
Sea Fury T20
Centaurus Enginedonate to
fnht.co.uk/t20-appeal.html
FLY NAVYHERITAGETRUST
Rear Admiral Terry Loughran CBChairman of FLY NAVY Heritage
fnht.co.uk
Trust Appoints New President and Chairman
As I prepare to pass the baton, my lengthystint as Chairman has been greatly easedby the support of an outstanding anduniquely qualified Board of Trustees.
The best challenges always have their upsand downs. Historic aircraft engines are aparticular pinch point, and an urgentfunding priority, but I am hugelyencouraged by the innovative andprogressive way in which the Fly NavyHeritage Trust is moving forward and thetremendous lift being given to the Trust byits Ambassadors and growing Supportermembership. If you are not already aSupporter, I hope this event- packed FlightDeck will move you to sign up before youreach the end!
With the QE carriers and new aircraft, theF35, Wildcat and Merlin Mk2s and Mk4srapidly becoming a reality there is aresurgence in our business and the utility
of Naval Aviation in a troubled world isrecognised by opinion formers, decisionmakers and the public at large.
It should be the aim of all of us to keepthis flame burning bright and I amconfident that the Trust’s dynamic seniormanagement team, backed by a strongbusiness plan is now well placed to showthe way.
Next year, with Taranto 75, the Centenaryof two RNAS VCs and the Sea Vixenjoining refreshed Swordfish and SeaFuries, we are well placed to highlight theingenuity, bold tactics and courageousactions that sit at the heart of naval flying.Don’t be left out in the cold – come onboard and support your Naval AviationHeritage!
The Trustees of the Fly Navy Heritage Trust are delighted to announce two newappointments, Rear Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest CB CVO who took over fromAdmiral Sir John Treacher KCB as President of the Trust in September and RearAdmiral Tom Cunningham CBE, who will succeed Rear Admiral Terry LoughranCB as Chairman in March 2015.
“Rear Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest and RearAdmiral Tom Cunningham are bothexceptionally qualified to take the Trustforward and develop our vision” said RearAdmiral Loughran.
Rear Admiral Cooke-Priest, a former FlagOfficer Naval Aviation, Chairman of theFleet Air Arm Officers’ Association,Gentleman Usher to Her Majesty theQueen and Master of the Guild of AirPilots and Air Navigators said “Admiral SirJohn has been a highly respected Presidentof the Trust for 23 years and it is a greathonour to step into his shoes.”
Admiral Sir John Treacher served on ArcticConvoys, was a Seafire pilot in the KoreanWar, commanded HMS Eagle and wasCommander-in-Chief Fleet before joiningthe aviation industry. His memoires, ‘Life atFull Throttle – From Wardroom to
Boardroom’ reflect on an extraordinarycareer. “We dined Sir John out at theAmbassadors’ Dinner in the IWM” saidRear Admiral Loughran. “He retired on his90th birthday, in the Centenary year of theformation of the RNAS, having just beenawarded his Arctic Star – it doesn’t getmuch better than that!”
Rear Admiral Loughran, who is also due toretire after ten years as Chairman of theTrust in March 2015, continued, “I amdelighted that Tom Cunningham hasaccepted the nomination of Trustees torelieve me as Chairman. A former Head ofthe Fleet Air Arm, distinguished aviator,ship driver and MOD warrior, he has thecredibility, drive and leadership experience,coupled with an irrepressible enthusiasmfor historic aircraft, to champion andadvance our unique heritage for manyyears to come.”
As a small, pioneering charity ourwork is focused primarily ondelivering flying historic Royal Navyaircraft over the public at air showsand events around the country.This year has been a landmark yearfor the Trust with the addition ofthe Sea Vixen to the Fly NavyHeritage Collection, enabling theTrust to make a quantum leapforward into the fast jet era.
As well as celebrating theCentenary of the formation of theRoyal Naval Air Service and runninga full programme of fundraisingevents, 2014 has been a year thathas seen the Trust tackle complexissues in a transformative way.
The challenges of fundraising forageing aircraft, and operating themin the modern airworthinessenvironment, have never been moredemanding. Our newsletter showshow we have grown and for thosewho would prefer to receive FlightDeck by email – e-flight deck hasalso arrived! Just let us know [email protected] and we will sendit to you by email in future.
The Royal Navy’s historic aircraft arepriceless national treasures – pleasehelp us keep them flying by sendinga donation today. Thank you.
Sue Eagles
Editorial
Contact UsGeneral Enquiries01935 [email protected]
campaign director01935 [email protected]
events01935 [email protected]
With only seconds to spare, Chris lowered the gear again, andtouched down on the runway, but unfortunately the wheels did notquite lock in time, causing the aircraft to collapse on itsundercarriage and skid off the runway on to the grass. The accidentand emergency services at RNAS Culdrose were on the sceneimmediately and Lt Cdr Götke escaped injury and climbed out of theaircraft unhurt.
Carrying out a successful forced landing in one of these heavy fastheritage aircraft is extremely difficult and Chris’ quick reactions,calm decision-making, and skilful flying averted disaster and saved aprecious and historically significant Navy Heritage aircraft.
Speaking after the incident Mike Nixon, Chief Executive of the FlyNavy Heritage Trust said, “The challenges of flying historic aircraftare greatly under estimated. There are no simulators to train foremergency procedures. The Sea Fury is a large, high performanceaircraft and Lt Cdr Götke ably displayed his skills as a Navy EmpireTest Pilot, quickly assessing the situation and controlling animpeccably gentle landing, ensuring minimum damage to theaircraft.”
A photographer who witnessed the crash said, “I was filming thedisplay when I saw smoke billowing from the Sea Fury’s engine. Thepilot diverted around the edge of the crowd and was obviouslyheading in to make a swift landing. Great skill and calm was shownby the pilot.”
An assessment of the damage by the specialists at Weald Aviationwho maintain the Sea Fury T20 is that while she will certainly need anew Centaurus engine; she is eminently repairable. “The offers ofhelp from Ambassadors and Supporters have been incredible” saidTim Manna, Trustee of the Fly Navy Heritage Trust. “We still needconsiderable financial support but are devoting all resources togetting her back in the air again.”
‘It was a prettyamazing piece of flying!’ Speaking of Lt Cdr Chris Gӧtke’s close call, Captain Eric‘Winkle’ Brown CBE DSC AFC Royal Navy, pictured with Chris infront of the Sea Fury T20 the day before RNAS Culdrose AirDay, said “It was a pretty amazing piece of flying! Therecouldn’t have been a better person at the controls! Chris, theentire Fleet Air Arm community salutes you!”
“Lt Cdr Götke’s flying skills, which would have beenoutstanding in a modern aircraft, were altogether exceptionalin a 60 year old piston fighter. His quick thinking, exemplaryairmanship and total dedication to duty, stand out as one ofthe finest examples of courage in the air in recent years.”
... EXEMPLARY AIRMANSHIP
SAVES HISTORIC SEA FURYcontinued from front page
Tim Skeet
The Fly Navy Heritage Trust isdelighted to announce that the onlyflying Sea Vixen in the world, SeaVixen FAW2 G-CVIX XP924, hasjoined the Trust’s collection ofhistoric Royal Navy aircraft.
The classic Fleet Air Arm fighter whichwas gifted to the Trust by her formerowner, Julian Jones, at a ceremony atRNAS Yeovilton in September, returnedto RNAS Yeovilton in style, thrilling thewaiting reception of guests with aspectacular and emotional display.Painted in 899 Naval Air Squadroncolours from HMS Eagle in 1971 andflown by former 899 Naval AirSquadron pilot, Jonathon Whaley, itwas a poignant homecoming.
Speaking at the handover event,Commodore Bill Covington CBE, theSea Vixen Team Leader for the Trust,said “The Sea Vixen has a seminal placein the heart of the Fleet Air Arm. Wewill safeguard the future of this iconicaircraft – and keep G-CVIX flying!”
In recent years G-CVIX, affectionatelyknown as ‘Foxy Lady’, has been flownand operated by Bournemouth based
DS Aviation, owned by Julian Jones. Speaking as he handed over a set ofceremonial keys to the aircraft, Juliansaid “It gives me great pleasure toknow that G-CVIX will have pride ofplace in the Fly Navy Heritage Trustcollection and will continue to be partof our national naval aviation heritagefor many years to come.”
“Fifty years ago Sea Vixens werepatrolling the skies of the Arabian Gulfensuring that oil flowed through theStraits of Hormuz to the westernworld” continued Julian. “Fifty yearson, my own business trades freelythroughout the Middle East region andit has been a privilege to have theopportunity to show my appreciationby keeping the Sea Vixen flying andfast jet carrier aviation in the publiceye.”
Also speaking at the ceremony, RearAdmiral Russ Harding OBE said “Weare delighted that the Sea Vixen hasreturned home to the Royal Navy andare extremely grateful to Julian Jones.His passion and commitment tokeeping the Sea Vixen flying over manyyears has saved a national treasure.”
To donate to the Sea Vixen email [email protected]
CARRIER FAST JETAVIATION IS BACK! Classic Fleet Air Arm Fighter joins
fly navy Heritage Collection
“The Sea Vixen has thepotential to engage
with a new generationof audiences, both onthe air display circuit
and on-line”
Michael Ryan, Trustee
“It’s a fantastic combinedachievement of the Royal
Navy, the Fly NavyHeritage Trust and privateenterprise coming together
to preserve the Nation’sNaval Aviation Heritage”
Rear Admiral Russ HardingOBE, Assistant Chief of Naval
Staff Aviation, AmphibiousCapability and Carriers.
“We will keep G-CVIX flying!”
Bill Covington CBE
Continued over ...
Fly Navy Heritage Trust Ambassadorand aviation legend Captain Eric‘Winkle’ Brown CBE DSC AFC visitedRNAS Yeovilton in July to deliver theRoyal Aeronautical Society, Fleet AirArm Branch, inaugural ‘Winkle Brown’lecture at the Fleet Air Arm Museum.
The lecture, which was sponsored by theFly Navy Heritage Trust, was attended byover 400 visitors. “It was a superb turn outand an outstanding celebration of Winkle’s remarkable achievements” saidMike Nixon, Chief Executive of the Trust.
During his visit to RNAS Yeovilton‘Winkle’ also took the opportunity tomeet Commander Henry Mitchell, thenew ‘Wings’ at Yeovilton and take partin a classic car photo shoot with Octanemagazine. The car was a 1939 MGMagnette, exactly the same model thatEric had owned at the outbreak of thewar when he was a foreign exchangestudent in Germany. “I was woken upone morning in September 1939 and
told our countries were at war” said Eric. “I was escorted to the Swiss borderand drove my MG back to Calais. Sitting behind the wheel again takes meright back! It feels just the same!”
‘Winkle’ Brown relives historyAviation Legend
The awards, for ‘Best use of Music’ andbest film in the ‘Heritage’ category, wereawarded to the Trust for its twofundraising films by the InternationalVisual Communications Association,Europe’s professional communicationsbody that promotes excellence in liveand experiential communications.
“Both films were not only powerfullyevocative but they stood out as trulyeffective in engaging audiences andfulfilling the objective of raising moneyfor the charity” said the panel of judges.
The film that won ‘Best Use of Music’used the dynamic soundtrack ‘Great Gigin the Sky’ from Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Sideof the Moon’ album and the Best Film inthe ‘Heritage’ category was a moving
tribute to the Swordfish in the Battle ofthe Atlantic.
The films, which were produced byGrosvenor TV with script writing andcreative direction by Sue Eagles, theTrust’s Campaign Director, were incompetition against many large budgetproductions. “The room was a who’swho of leading agencies and some ofthe biggest brands in the industry” saidSue. “We were in the running withcompanies such as Nike, Lucozade, JCBand Jeep. I couldn’t believe that we wonGold – twice! It was like winning twoOscars . . . and I would like to thankRolls Royce and Lockheed Martin forsponsoring the films, EMI Music for useof the Pink Floyd track and Grosvenor TVparticularly, for their longstandingsupport to the Trust.”
Awards 2013
TRUST WINS
GOLD!
Royal Yacht Britannia Dinner Raises £15,000The Trust relies greatly on the supportof industry and corporate companiesand this year’s annual Industry andCorporate Supporters’ Dinner was heldin the State Dining Room on board theRoyal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh.
The evening, which was also attendedby members of the ship’s company ofHMS Queen Elizabeth, was a greatsuccess raising over £15,000.
The Fly Navy Heritage Trust won two Gold Awards in two differentcategories in the prestigious IVCA LiveCom Awards in January.
Cold War Warrior to Fly the Flag
“The Sea Vixen will play a key role indriving the Trust’s strategic vision” saidSue Eagles, the Trust’s Campaign Director“allowing us to represent theevolutionary story of naval flying fromthe Swordfish bi-plane through to theSea Fury, the last of the big pistonaircraft, to the early jet age with the SeaHawk and the introduction of the highspeed strike aircraft of the 60s and 70swith the Sea Vixen.”
As aircraft became faster and heavier thepace of development in carrier aviationwas rapid. The Sea Vixen not onlyembodies ‘big deck’ naval fixed wingcarrier operations but also the manypioneering new technologies andinventions that came with it.
The Sea Vixen also represents asignificant part of the 100 year history ofnaval aviation – the Cold War - whichlasted from the late 1940s to the 1980s.It was an important time for the Fleet AirArm, for in addition to maintaining aconstant front line readiness to engagethe massive forces of the Warsaw Pact inwhat could be a full scale nuclear war, itwas a period of huge and demandingtransition in carrier aviation capability.
“In the Sea Vixen, the term ‘Multi Role’took on a new meaning’ said Admiral SirMichael Layard KCB CBE, President of theFly Navy Heritage Trust Sea Vixen Teamand a former Commanding Officer of899 Naval Air Squadron. “While AllWeather fighting and Ground Attack,were its primary roles, Close Air Support,Air to Air Tanking and even TacticalNuclear bombing were also its stock intrade. The aircraft holds a very specialplace in the heart of many of our loyalsupporters and the general public but wedon’t underestimate the challenges ofkeeping such a magnificent and potentaircraft flying.”
“We aim to attract similiar levels ofsupport as the Vulcan to the Sky” saidTrustee Michael Ryan, “and we arestarting to develop and engage with anew generation of audiences both on theAir Display circuit and online.”
The Sea Vixen will be operated by NavalAviation Ltd, a subsidiary of the Fly NavyHeritage Trust and after a period of deepmaintenance is expected to fly again atRNAS Yeovilton Air Day in 2015.
The acquisition of the only flying de Havilland Sea Vixen G-CVIX XP924 hasbeen a transformational gift for the Fly Navy Heritage Trust, enabling the Trustto take a quantum leap forward into the fast jet era of naval flying.
‘We don’t under estimate thechallenge of keeping such amagnificent and potentaircraft flying and we relygreatly on our supporters,enthusiasts and thegenerosity of benefactors toraise the money needed tokeep her in superb flyingcondition’
Admiral Sir Michael Layard KCB CBEPresident Sea Vixen Team
To donate to the Sea Vixen pleaseemail [email protected] or donateon line at www.fnht.co.uk or tojoin the Sea Vixen SupportersGroup please [email protected]
Tim Skeet
Sea VixenSupporters DayRNAS Yeovilton
Sat 12 Sept 2015
swordfish golftournamentEverything to play for!The 2014 Swordfish GolfTournament at Bowood inSeptember was a most enjoyableand successful day raising over£9,000. This year’s event wascombined with the annualAgustaWestland vs Royal Navycompetition so there was even moreto play for! Teams included Thales,Serco, Selex, Vector Aerospace,MBDA, Lockheed Martin, TDHB andSaffrey-Champness, as well asAgustaWestland and the Royal Navy.
After fierce rivalry on the fairwaysand greens, with competitive golferskeen to ‘Beat the Pro’ and be‘Nearest to the Pin’ one of the twoThales teams took the honour ofwinning the Swordfish Trophy as theoverall winners. The event, whichincluded an impressive display bythe Texan T6 flown by Lt Cdr ChrisGötke RN, also saw the Royal Navyteam beat AgustaWestland for thefirst time in many years! Well doneNavy!
fly navy heritage awards
for DISTINCTIONThis year’s Fly Navy Heritage Trust Awards for Distinction were awarded toLeading Airman Rich Levy and Acting Leading Hand Amy Durand.
The award, which was institutedby Trust Ambassador KeithKnowles and is sponsored by hiscompany Beds and Bars,recognises and rewards Fleet AirArm ratings for distinction with aweekend break for two in one ofthe company’s hotels or hostelsthroughout Europe.
Leading Airman Rich Levy receivedthe award for his exemplary servicein support of RNAS Yeovilton’s fire prevention programme and Leading Hand AmyDurand, for her outstanding contribution to the critical logistics challenges of theWildcat and Merlin transition programme.
Leading Airman Levy was presented with his award at a ceremony and lunch inLondon in June. Speaking at the presentation, Commodore Jock Alexander OBE, theCommanding Officer of RNAS Yeovilton, said “Leading Airman Levy’s unfailinglypositive attitude and dynamic approach to his work stands out as a benchmark ofselfless duty. His personal efforts have totally revised our approach to fire safety.”
The awards are made three times a yearand Amy was presented with her awardin London in September. “I am reallyimpressed by the quality of young peoplein the Fleet Air Arm” said Keith Knowles“and it is a privilege to give Amy thisaward. Her drive, focus and capacity markher out from her peers, and her initiativeand leadership has made a vitalcontribution to the effective stores,accounting and logistics supply chain oftwo major aircraft programmes. WowAmy, very well done!”
See our range
of Fly Navy Merchandise
on
fnht.co.uk
Heather, who was described by AlanBristow in his autobiography as ‘theWorld’s Best Co-Pilot’ soon demonstratedher familiarity with the cockpit controlscarrying out a perfect landing in the LynxSimulator. Accompanied by her sister andbrother-in-law, Moira and Andrew
Lambert, Heather also visited the LynxWildcat Trials Unit and the Royal NavyHistoric Flight. “We were so impressed bythe professionalism and enthusiasm ofeveryone we met” said Heather. The visitwas especially poignant for Andrew whoseuncle, Sub Lt (A) Robert Parkinson, was
one of the 13 young naval aviators of 825Naval Air Squadron lost in the ChannelDash in February 1942. Their unsurpassedbravery in the face of insurmountable oddsis still held up today as one of the finestexamples of the dedication, spirit andethos of the Fleet Air Arm.
Fly Navy Heritage Trust Ambassador Heather Bristow, widow of the late helicopter pioneer, Alan Bristow, visited RNASYeovilton in July to spend a day with 702 Naval Air Squadron.
The W
orld’s Best
Co-Pilo
t!
“I felt that I was joining the dots of historyas we spoke about my Great Grandfather’sfirst ever deck landing in his SopwithStrutter, and Eric’s record-breaking jet decklandings!” said Emma.
“My great grandfather was awarded theVC for the first combat search and rescuein history, when he rescued a fellow pilotshot down behind enemy lines in Bulgariaduring the Gallipoli campaign. Aremarkable feat given he was flying abiplane modified as a single-seater!”
“Like many young aviators in the Royal NavalAir Service, my great grandfather has beendescribed as ‘inventive’, ‘pioneering’, ‘a bitwhacky’, ‘gentle, kind and genuinelymodest’! He flew his planes with all sorts ofhome-made improvisations, from usingSandow elastic to fix a wing, periscopes fornavigation, a length of wool for checkingwind direction and even his belt to improveflying efficiency! He was incrediblyexperimental!”
“Three generations of the Bell Davies familyhave served in the Royal Navy” said Emma.“My great grandfather was in the RNAS inthe First World War, my grandfather, ViceAdmiral Sir Lancelot Bell Davies in HMSNorfolk at the sinking of the Scharnhorst inthe Second World War, and my uncle,Captain Richard Bell Davies, served in theFalklands.”
“When Eric told me of his early adventuresin naval flying it was quite a realisation todiscover that he is probably one of the fewpeople alive today to have known my greatgrandfather!”
Royal Naval Air Service
Victoria Cross
TELEGRAPHIST AIR GUNNERS DEDICATION Five of the last surviving Telegraphist AirGunners visited the Royal Navy Historic Flightin September to dedicate a brass plaque ofremembrance on the step in the rear cockpitof the Swordfish where the air gunner stood.
The unique band of Sailor-Airmenaffectionately known as TAGs, wereresponsible for operating the aircraft’smachine gun and keeping enemy aircraft atbay.
“The bravery of the Telegraphist Air Gunnersis often forgotten” said Val Sayer, widow ofthe late Les Sayer, who scored the firsttorpedo hit on the Bismarck and wasawarded the Distinguished Service Medal.
“There are very few TAGs still alive now andthe plaque on the TAGs step will ensure thatthe service and sacrifice of all TAGs isremembered in the future,” continued Val.
In World War II, 2500 TAGs saw active servicefrom the icy North Atlantic to Japan. Over507 TAGs were lost through enemy actionand 69 became Prisoners of War. TAGs wereawarded 2 Conspicuous Gallantry Medals,115 Distinguished Service Medals, 20 BritishEmpire Medals and 134 Mentions inDespatches while serving in over 77 differentaircraft carriers worldwide.
There is an exceptional story behind everyone of the medals, such as Len Barrick, whoreceived a Conspicuous Gallantry Medal forguiding his blinded pilot to a safe landing onHMS Victorious in a Fulmar of 884 Naval AirSquadron and went on to receive theDistinguished Service Medal for bombingoperations at Sakishima, and Donald Bunce,who survived the heroic Channel Dash andwas awarded the Conspicuous GallantryMedal.
Emma Wightman, great grand daughter of Vice Admiral Richard Bell Davies VC CBDSO AFC, who was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1916, and Captain Eric ‘Winkle’Brown CBE DSC AFC, had much to talk about when they met at a Fly Navy HeritageTrust dinner in HMS Victory earlier this year.
“People in Yorkshire have a greataffection for the Swordfish and many hadconnections with the Blackburn Aircraftfactory at Sherburn-in-Elmet where theSwordfish was built,” said CouncillorMurray. “Appleyard of Leeds, Tate ofLeeds, Hudswell Clarkes, the TalbotGarage and many smaller engineeringfirms took a great pride in makingcomponents or skinning, riveting orpainting the frame.”
Over 1,700 Swordfish were built at theBlackburn Aircraft factory and the last oneleft the production line in August 1944.“The hours of work, skill and energy thatwent into making these fine andtrustworthy aircraft was a labour of love”
said Tom. “It will be a proud momentindeed when W5856 revisits the City ofLeeds and we can pay tribute to the vitalrole the Swordfish fulfilled in the war andthe part the people of Leeds played in thischapter of the Fleet Air Arm’s history.”
Swordfish W5856 was adopted by the City of Leeds in 1996 in tribute to thelocal companies who built Swordfish components during WW2 and the LordMayor and Lady Mayoress of Leeds, Tom and Edna Murray, visited the RoyalNavy Historic Flight earlier this year to see her progress.
restoration ofswordfish
The generous donation of £200,000from the Peter Harrison HeritageFoundation has allowed the Trust tomake an important grant to the RoyalNavy Historic Flight for the restorationof Fairey Swordfish W5856 to full flyingcondition.
The aircraft, which was built in 1941 byBlackburn Aircraft, is the oldest survivingSwordfish Mk 1 in the world. However in2003 she was grounded with corrosion inher wing spars and the first phase of therestoration was to build a new set of wings.
BAE Systems who had very generouslyrestored the aircraft in 1990, again steppedin and new wings were lovingly andpainstakingly made by very experienced BAESystems craftsmen and apprentices at theBAES Brough facility.
Although naval aircraft are designedto withstand the exacting demands ofoperating at sea, the Swordfish wasnot built with the expectation of stillbeing airworthy 70 years later and therestoration of W5856 has been ameticulous and time consuming task.
Phase two was to carry out a majorservice on the fuselage. In order to dothis the paint had to bestripped off to check thecondition of theframework and fabric ofthe aircraft. This includedmodern X-ray andanalysis checks, providingan extraordinary level ofdetailed scrutiny notpreviously possible andallowing the remedial workto be carried out to thevery highest standard.
At the end of this stage theaircraft went into the paint shop and wascarefully re-doped and repainted in her newcolour scheme of 820 Naval Air Squadronwhen embarked in HMS Ark Royal duringthe pursuit of the Bismarck in the NorthernAtlantic in WW2.
Items that had run out of life e.g. flyingcontrol cables, generator, magnetos etc.were replaced at this stage and at the sametime one or two modern modifications suchas two VHF radios and a Mode Stransponder were also fitted.
The aircraft’s Pegasus engine also needed acomplete overhaul and newpistons and cylinders had tobe specially manufactured.While the engine was beingreassembled and tested, thesmall maintenance team onthe Flight set about fitting thewings and rigging the aircraft.“It took about two weeks tobox the wings and get thetension just right” saidHoward Read, the ChiefEngineer. “Trainees from RNAS
Yeovilton also helped provide valuableadditional manpower.”
“Restoring a beautiful aircraft to such ahigh standard with very limitedresources is a great achievement,”continued Howard. “Everyone on theFlight is passionate about our heritageand it was a sheer joy to do.”
Swordfish W5856 is expected to take tothe skies again before the end of theyear and will be re-dedicated as the ‘Cityof Leeds’ at a ceremony in Leeds in 2015.
w5856
Sir Peter Harrison KGCNCBE, who through The PeterHarrison HeritageFoundation donated£200,000 for the restorationof Swordfish W5856, visitedthe Royal Navy Historic Flightto see progress for himself.
“I am immensely proud tohave been able to save anaircraft of such national andhistorical significance” saidSir Peter.
“The gallant and inspiring story of the Swordfish gripped me as a schoolboy; and byrestoring W5856 and getting her flying again, I am delighted to keep that story of heroicand epic achievement alive to help educate and inform modern audiences today.”
Sir Peter HarrisonChairman thanks
City of Leeds
This year’s 100th Anniversary of theformation of the Royal Naval AirService was marked in style with aCentenary Reception at the Navaland Military Club in London on 1 July.
The reception, which was jointlyorganised by the Fly Navy Heritage Trustand the Fleet Air Arm Officers’Association, was a great gathering offormer and current serving Fleet Air Armpersonnel on one of the most auspiciousdates in the history of naval flying.Speaking at the reception Vice AdmiralSir Adrian Johns KCB CBE KStJ ADC said“A hundred years ago today, thefledgling Royal Naval Air Service, whichstarted with just 4 pilots at RNASEastchurch, with their flying trainingsponsored by a wealthy benefactor,prepared to take the fight to the enemyin the First World War - and what a storyit was! In four short years, the zeal,ingenuity and bold tactics of the earlynaval aviators built the Royal Naval AirService into the finest naval air arm inthe world. By the end of the war, theRoyal Naval Air Service had 55,000personnel, 3,000 aeroplanes and 103airships.”
1914 - 2014
Centenary Reception
The Fly Navy Heritage Trust annualLegacy Seminar was very well attendedthis year with over sixty Fleet Air Armveterans, hearing at first-hand about thedifferent types of legacy and whyleaving a gift in your will matters.
Legacy giving is responsible for almost £2billion being donated to charities in the UKeach year, accounting for 12% of all incometo the larger charities. This year the Fly NavyHeritage Trust has benefitted from severalgenerous legacies and the response to theprofessionalism of the Trust’s LegacyCampaign has been exceptional.
The day included a buffet lunch in theWardroom, a visit to the Royal Navy HistoricFlight and a Heritage flying displayculminating in a formidable display by theTrust’s most recent acquisition, the Sea Vixen.
Ensuring the Legacy ofNaval Aviation Lives on
“The whole day was mostinteresting and exceptionallywell organised. I was able togo with my son as well, whichwas very special.”
Lt Cdr Ralph Jameson VRD RNR
Supporters’ Day
Lee How
ard
Lee How
ard
next year’s legacy seminarfri 2 oct 2015
The demand for tickets for Supporters’ Dayon 4 October was overwhelming. “We soldout within an hour of going on line” saidPhil Thornton, the Trust’s Events andCorporate Development Manager. The day, which is an opportunity for theTrust to say thank you to its Supporters,included an update on the Trust’s activitiesand a presentation on the Royal NavyHistoric Flight in the morning, followed by abuffet lunch and the opportunity to get upclose and personal with the aircraft in theafternoon. “It was a superb day in allrespects” said Supporter RichardCunningham.
The Swordfish, Sea Fury FB11 and Sea Vixenattracted great interest but the highlight ofthe day was the stunning formation andaerobatics of the T-6 Texan flown by Lt CdrChris Götke RN and the Chipmunk, flownby John Beattie MBE, winner of the 2014Honourable Company of Air Pilots HannaTrophy for his outstanding contribution tothe art of display flying.
Next year’s Supporters’ Day will be held onSaturday 9 May 2015. To become aSupporter apply on line at www.fnht.co.ukor email [email protected]
The Oily Rag
“Despite our best efforts theengineering team faced a perfectstorm of challenges this year whichresulted in delay at the start of thedisplay season” said Howard Read,Chief Engineer of the Royal NavyHistoric Flight.
“Swordfish LS326 had a series ofteething problems with her newlyreconditioned Pegasus engine andregulation mandated by the MilitaryAviation Authority unfortunatelydelayed the return to flight of the SeaFury FB11,” said Howard.
“We are taking all measures possibleto improve resilience” said RearAdmiral Russ Harding OBE, AssistantChief of Naval Staff Aviation,Amphibious Capability and Carriers,“including a review of themaintenance contract, working closerwith industry and putting betterdesign advisory support in place. Weare also trying to source new enginesand build an inventory of spares tosustain output in the future.”
“Once the current problems have beenovercome, the benefits of the
stringent practices we are working toat the moment will reap rewards formany years in the future,” saidHoward.
“One of the great advantages ofmodern X-Ray and analysis techniquesis that the smallest areas of corrosion,cracking or other damage can bedetected and remedied. As a result theaircraft are scrutinised and maintainedto a very high standard.”
Parts of the Pegasus engine forSwordfish LS326 have been newlymanufactured and she is in as goodcondition as when she was built over70 years ago. “The original cylinderslasted 70 years,” said Howard, “andthere is no reason why, with tenderloving care, they shouldn’t last as longagain! It is painstaking work butlooking after these beautiful aircraft isimmensely rewarding. It’s hands-on‘oily rag’ engineering at its mostsatisfying best!”
Chipmunk T.10 WK608, the pilottraining and currency workhorse ofthe Royal Navy Historic Flight, has alsobeen out of action this year due to
damage to the tail. This is beingrepaired by the RAF fixed-wing repairteam 71(IR) Squadron. De HavillandSupport, based at Duxford, isproviding the design advice and she isexpected to fly again in early 2015.
The aircraft operated by the Royal Navy Historic Flight are some of the rarest and most historically
significant in the world and as the aircraft get ever older, keeping the airframes, engines and
instrumentation in full flying condition is increasingly challenging. Maintaining and operating
ageing aircraft in a modern military airworthiness environment also presents added difficulties.
“Looking after thesebeautiful aircraft isimmensely rewarding,it’s hands-on ‘oily rag’engineering at its mostsatisfying best!”
From
the W
orksho
p
The post incident recovery and support provided by the Royal Navyand the military generally, following the emergency landing of SeaFury T20 G-RNHF at RNAS Culdrose Air Day in July, was absolutelyoutstanding.
Outstanding Support for Sea Fury Recovery
With the focus of the investigationcentred on the aircraft’s BristolCentaurus eighteen-cylinderengine, the engine and propellerwere removed from the aircraftafter the incident and taken byroad to Weald Aviation in Essex forassessment.
A few weeks later the fuselage,centre wing section and two outerwings followed on three speciallyadapted low level transporters. The move was carried out by the Joint Aircraft Recovery andTransportation Squadron (JARTS), aspecialist unit dedicated to aircraftpost-crash management. Inpreparation for the recovery, theunit worked with air engineeringteams from RNAS Culdrose andWeald Aviation to partially stripdown the large fighter in order toreduce the width of the load forthe journey through the narrowCornish lanes.
Speaking of the recovery, MikeNixon OBE, Chief Executive of theTrust, said “The support from RNASCuldrose, Weald Aviation, JARTS,814 Naval Air Squadron and thescientists, naval engineers andcivilian specialists in 1710 Naval AirSquadron was absolutely
outstanding. It was an incredibleexample of the Royal Navy, civilianengineers, the wider military andthe charitable trust all workingtogether.”
Fran Renouf, Weald Aviation’sDeputy Chief Engineer said “It wasa rare and privileged opportunity towork on a magnificent heritageaircraft and because it wassomething special and different, itwas interesting, and everyone reallyenjoyed doing it.”
“The blacksmith at RNAS Culdrosemade special brackets to secure thefuselage to one of the low loaders”continued Fran. “As this sort ofequipment is no longer madeanymore we found a drawing in anold aviation publication and madesomething to fit!”
“The Sea Fury incident providedsome unusual opportunities forthose involved in her recovery totest and demonstrate theirprofessional skills” said RearAdmiral Ian Tibbitt CBE, DeputyChairman of the Trust. “All therenowned Fleet Air Armengineering skills of problemsolving, technical innovation andadaptability came to the fore.”
This year’s Ambassadors’ Dinner, heldin the spectacular new atrium of theImperial War Museum in September,raised a magnificent £136,000!
“It was a fantastic achievement” saidMike Nixon OBE, Chief Executive of theTrust. “We rely greatly on the incrediblegenerosity of our Ambassadors and theirguests and are extremely grateful for theiroutstanding support.”
The dinner, which was attended by HRHThe Duke of York KG, Patron of the FlyNavy Heritage Trust, was a celebration ofthe Centenary of the formation of theRoyal Naval Air Service in 1914 and wasone of the first dinners to be held in theIWM following the opening of the WorldWar One Galleries.
The evening was sponsored by EbullioCapital Management LLP and the Guestof Honour was Admiral Sir GeorgeZambellas KCB DSC ADC DL, The First SeaLord and Chief of Naval Staff.
Ambassadors’ Dinner Raises
£136,000!
Legendary Racing Driver Launches Online Appeal One of the Trust’s Ambassadors, legendary motor racing driver Derek Bell MBEhas spearheaded an online appeal to get the Sea Fury T20 back in the air.
Derek, who won Le Mans five times, was three times winner of the Daytona 24 and hasbeen World Sports Car Champion twice said “I had the most amazing evening of mylife having dinner with the Trust on board HMS Victory. I sat next to Captain Eric‘Winkle’ Brown. People say racing drivers are brave but you listen to naval aviators like
Eric – their fearlessness in combat, flying fast high performance aircraft from carriers gives you an entirelynew perspective. I am also full of admiration for Lt Cdr Chris Götke’s skilful and well-judged emergencylanding in the Sea Fury T20” continued Derek. “I know only too well that technical problems can and dooccur – and incidents like this underline the importance of supporting the Fly Navy Heritage Trust throughcharitable donations. I am delighted to help raise money to get the Sea Fury flying again and look forwardto flying in her myself when she is back in the air again!”
“Ambassadors make a powerful andpositive contribution to the Trust inmany different ways” said Sue Eagles,the charity’s Campaign Director.
“Most of our Ambassadors have apersonal connection with naval aviationor aviation generally and theircommitment and involvement isinvaluable to us.”
The high level engagement of theTrust’s Ambassadors is also greatlyappreciated by the Royal Navy. The FirstSea Lord Admiral Sir George ZambellasKCB DSC ADC DL hosted two events forAmbassadors this year, one in the GreatCabin on board HMS Victory and thesecond at Admiralty House, Whitehall,including a tour of the historicAdmiralty Board Room.
The Trust’s Ambassadors’ initiative has gone from strength to strength in2014 helping to raise vital funds and lend high profile support.
Both events were a wonderful opportunity,not only to say thank you to thoseAmbassadors and benefactors who havemade significant gifts to the Trust, but also towelcome new Ambassadors to the work ofthe Trust.
Game Changers
O N L I N E A P P E A L
RNAS Ye
ovilton
Air Day
Lt Cdr Chris Götke RNCommanding Officer Royal Navy Historic Flight
The Sea Fury FB11 at theentrance to the Trust’smarquee, also drew the crowdsand 250 Supporters and theirguests enjoyed a BBQ hog roastlunch in the members’enclosure.
The award winning airshow,which attracts over 35,000visitors, continues to build on itssuccess having won Gold at theSouth West Tourism ExcellenceAwards last year and Bronze atthe national Visit EnglandAwards for Excellence.
“My wife and I had a splendidday” said Supporter IanWatson.
John Darby, a Swordfish veteranwho served in 825 Naval AirSquadron during the Battle ofthe Atlantic also had anunforgettable day. “I was takento the Royal Navy Historic Flightto see the Swordfish and thememories came flooding back”said John. “I remember thenight my friend, Sub Lt FrankJackson came under fire. He
had a narrow escape. HisTelegraphist Air Gunner waskilled. We were of course veryproud of our old Squadron andI am delighted to learn that 825will be re-commissioned whenthe Wildcat is brought intoservice.”
Captain Philip Jackson of theHMS Conway Trust South WestBranch also presented theTrust’s Chief Executive, MikeNixon with a donation for £100.
The Sea Fury T20 gave athrilling and exciting display,which sadly was to be one ofher last displays of the seasonbefore suffering engine failureat RNAS Culdrose Air Day fivedays later.
Despite flying at two othermajor airshows the sameweekend, her pilot, Lt Cdr ChrisGötke still found time to signboxes of Sea Fury models formembers of the public andVolunteer Charlotte Thorntonraised a significant sum inbucket donations.
RNAS Yeovilton Air Day on 26 July was avery successful event for the Fly Navy Heritage Trust withthe Sea Fury T20 a highlight of the flying display.
A DUTY TO
GIVESOMETHING
BACK’
‘
Maureen Ashcott, who hasdonated to the Fly NavyHeritage Trust for many years,speaks of her reasons for beinga Supporter.
Working on the Swordfish in theWar meant so much to me that Ihave always made regulardonations to the Trust and amproud to be a Supporter.
I was an Air Radio Mechanicbased at HMS Merlin, RNASDonibristle, Fife, in 1942 andwas responsible for servicing theSwordfish radios. The Swordfishgave such trusty and sterlingservice to the nation and I believewe have a duty to give somethingback. By being a Supporter of theFly Navy Heritage Trust, I helpkeep the courage and dedicationof the Swordfish crews alive.
Fly Navy Heritage Trust Ambassador Alan Rivers visited RNAS Yeoviltonin June and took the opportunity to fly in the Sea Fury T20.
“It was an unforgettable day and I am filled with admiration for all those whosaw active service in the Sea Fury flying from carriers in the Korean War” saidAlan. “We flew from RNAS Yeovilton to the Isle of Wight, doing a wide looparound the Needles, and on the way back we climbed to 4000’ and descended ina long dive at 400 mph, roaring in over the runway! It was a lot of fun and veryexhilarating!” On stepping out of the aircraft Alan was greeted with a glass ofchampagne by the Trust’s Chief Executive, Mike Nixon.
Fury flight!
MerchandisingSales Boost FundraisingThe Fly Navy Heritage Trust trailer and publicitystand has attended many major shows and eventsthis year boosting fundraising and raising profile.The Trust has also recruited many more volunteerswhich has helped increase merchandise sales.
“Sales of merchandise have continued to grow”said Dave Weatherley, the Trust’s Office Manager.“Polo shirts, baseball caps and models are ourbest sellers. We have also added plenty of newproducts in recent months, including a new rangeof weather proof clothing, Fleet Air Arm zig-zagiPhone covers and an exciting selection of SeaVixen collectables including altimeters and airspeed indicators. With more new arrivals plannedfor Christmas, see our merchandise flier online orif you need a ‘Shop in a Box’ pack for your ownFly Navy fundraising event please [email protected]” continued Dave.
heritage is exciting!Air Engineering Technician Jack Roperwho was drafted to the Royal NavyHistoric Flight earlier this year, foundhimself working on the same aircraft thathis grandfather had worked on 40 yearsearlier.
“Heritage isn’t something young peopleusually get excited about” said Jack “but Ihave had a brilliant time working onSwordfish LS326. When I came to the Flight Ihad no idea that my grandfather, Petty OfficerDerek Roper, had worked on LS326. I foundout quite by chance when we were lookingthrough the aircraft archives. There was anentry in my grandfather’s name. Even more ofa coincidence, he had been ‘boxing thewings’ – exactly the same job I was doing!”
“Working with the Flight has been reallyrewarding” said Jack, “As well as learninggood practical engineering skills, when I amworking on the new carriers in the future itwill be amazing to say that I am one of thevery few Technicians in the Royal Navyqualified to work on Swordfish!”
fnht.co.ukroyalnavyhistoricflight.org.uk
Fly Navy Heritage TrustRoom 112 Unicorn House
RNAS YeoviltonIlchester, Somerset BA22 8HW
01935 842005/849200Email [email protected]
Legacy AppealLeaving a gift in your will is an easy way for your generosity to last beyond yourown lifetime and benefit future generations. If you would like to leave a gift inyour will please email [email protected] or call 01935 849200.
Sue, who joined the Trust in 2010, is
widely recognised as a leading
communications specialist with a
wealth of experience in high level
policy arenas in the military, industry
and the media. In her role as the
Trust’s Campaign Director she is
responsible for development of the
Trust’s fundraising, marketing and
communications campaign and
engaging with the Trust’s multiple
supporters and stakeholders.
Which of the aircraft you supportis most special to you?Each aircraft represents a different era in
the Fleet Air Arm’s history. However, if I
had to choose it would be the Hawker
Sea Fury. The Sea Fury is the pinnacle of
piston-engined fighter design and was
one of the most successful and popular
aircraft operated by the post war Fleet Air
Arm. It was combat-proven too and the
nostalgic thunder of the Sea Fury’s engine
when she soars over the airfield could not
be a more powerful brand signature for
the Royal Navy’s aviation heritage.
How much does your team raise each year?We have to raise at least £700,000 a year
to support the operational costs of the
aircraft and ensure that we can pay for
spares to sustain them. Engines are vital.
We rely on major gifts for these large
items and are very grateful to the
individuals and corporate companies who
make substantial donotations. We are
absolutely reliant on their support.
Why do people support you?The Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air
Arm played an important part in the
history of our country. Our donors
understand this - and know that keeping
the Royal Navy’s historic aircraft flying at
air shows and events around the country
is an exciting and dynamic way for
everyone to share that heritage and
experience history in a contemporary way.
With HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS
Prince of Wales coming into service there
is great excitement about the F35
Lightning and the next step in the history
of naval flying.
Given the support you receivefrom your Ambassadors, howwould you answer a Supporterasking: ‘Why do you still needmore from me?’Every penny counts to us. As a charity we
raise money in a wide range of ways from
fundraising events to legacies. Those who
give to us annually are just as important
as those who make larger gifts. Every
amount of support at every level makes a
real difference and is greatly appreciated.
If you would like to donate please send a
cheque made payable to ‘The Fly Navy
Heritage Trust’ or visit fnht.co.uk/make-a-
donation.html
How our funds add upThe Fly Navy Heritage Trust depends on
many different groups and individuals for
donations but one of our most important
sources of income is from you - our
Supporters. Without you we simply
couldn’t keep the Fly Navy flag flying.
THANKYOU
Sue Eagles, The Trust’s Campaign Director,
On why every penny counts
Conservation Costs
Ringtail to Retail A new hangar is being builtat the former RNASBurscough, HMS Ringtail, inLancashire, as part of a retaildevelopment that aims tocommemorate the region’shistoric links with the Fleet Air Arm duringthe Second World War.
The building, which has been designed toresemble a WW2 aircraft hangar, willbecome a Booths supermarket and thedevelopment has been called the RingtailRetail Park in tribute to the former RoyalNaval Air Station that played a vital role inthe latter years of the Battle of theAtlantic in 1939-45.
Lawrence Critchley from the Lathom andBurscough Military Heritage Society, whohas been instrumental in preserving theheritage of the site, said “We aredelighted at the sensitive way Booths hasembraced the history of the Naval AirSquadrons that were based here.”
HMS Ringtail was commissioned in 1943with more than 40 Naval Air Squadronsusing the Royal Naval Air Station fortraining prior to embarking in carriers.
Volunteers NeededWe are looking for volunteers to
assist with events, provide
support groups for different
aircraft types, help in the office
or man the trailer at Air Shows
around the country. These tasks
don’t take up enormous amounts
of time but they make a huge
difference to raising awareness,
spreading the word and raising
money to keep our Naval
Aviation Heritage in the public
eye. If you have some spare time
and would like to help, please
give us a call on 01935 842005 or
email us at [email protected]