In Memoriam
Sadly the following members have died since publication of the last newsletter. We extend our deepest sympathy to their families and friends.

John Hathaway

Fred Jones

Fred Jones at the Museum of Army Flying, Middle Wallop, in 2016.

Former Flight Lieutenant Fred Jones died peacefully on 26 April 2019, aged 92, just 12 weeks after the death of his beloved wife of 71 years Joan. Formerly a pilot in the Glider Pilot Regiment from 1945 to 1948, followed by 3 years in Civvy Street, he joined the RAF in 1951. Fred served as a pilot in the Royal Air Force for 32 years and then continued as a Retired Officer and Flight Simulator Instructor for another 9 years. 
 
He was stationed in the UK, Cyprus and Germany and was a pilot on Canberras of 139 (Jamaica), 44 (Rhodesia) and 73 Squadrons, Valiants of 18 (ECM) and 90 (In-flight Refuelling) Squadrons, Britannias of 99 and 511 Squadrons.  Whilst with 44 Squadron he flew operational sorties from Nicosia during Operation Musketeer (Suez crisis).
 
Fred flew more than 3 types of glider and 16 aircraft types, accumulating approximately 7,300 flying hours ,with almost 1,800 hours on Canberras, over 1,000 hours on Valiants and nearly 4,000 hours on his most beloved plane the Britannia 'Whispering Giant'. Flying and the Royal Air Force for Fred was his life. He enjoyed every moment and would often remark "I am the luckiest person alive - to be paid for doing something I enjoy so much".
 
Fred will be greatly missed by his family and friends.