The new rank structure was put into effect when Wg Cdr Neil Meadows took command of 208 Sqn on 5th March 2001 from Squadron Leader Simon Stocker. Sqn Ldr Stocker had been ‘acting’ Boss since September 2000 when Squadron Leader Paul Comer left for the Joint Services Command and Staff College at Shrivenham. The official Squadron history recorded that Squadron Leader Simon Stocker was the Officer Commanding No 208 Squadron from 11th September 2000 to 4th March 2001,and not just “acting” boss!
The Guest of Honour at the 2014 Naval 8 / 208 Squadron Annual Dinner was Group Captain Neil Meadows, Officer Commanding 208 Squadron between 5 March 2001 and 8 August 2003. The following chapter comprises his presentation to the Association.