Hawk 2003 - 2008 (4)

Several high-ranking visitors, both Service and civilian, came to the Squadron. Notable personnel included the British High Commissioner to India, Sarah Bobet, and Air Marshal Bhairnani of the Indian Air Force. The Squadron continued its bi-lateral exchange with the Argentinian Air Force and Captain Alfie Ambrogi spent some time on 208 Squadron. Flight Lieutenant Mostyn Payne reciprocated the visit later in the year when he visited Argentina. Personnel from the Squadron were involved in visits to

the Belgian Air Force Base at Beuvechain for the Alphajet European Trainers Meet. Flight Lieutenant Cawthorn was dispatched to India to increase our understanding of Indian Air Force flying training. Staff and students also flew to French Air Force Salon to undertake Exercise GARLIC LEMON (low flying in the French mountains). C (Central Flying School) Flight took 4 aircraft to Aalborg in Denmark and, on another occasion, to Lechfeld in Germany. The Squadron continued their friendship ties with the Metropolitan Police, who organised motorcycle training for several staff.

HRH Prince William visited RAF Valley from 4-16 December 2005 to gain experience of Mountain Rescue Services, and the role of the Royal Air Force. He flew in a Squadron Hawk and spent a week with 208 Squadron. He was treated as a student and ‘mucked in’ very well, enjoying the flying and socialising. He left with kind words and high praise for the Squadron.

Squadron Leader Tony Little left the Squadron to start a ground tour at the end of 2005, after 17 years at RAF Valley and 11 on 208 Squadron. The Commander-in-Chief commended Flight Lieutenant “Giz” Taylor in the New Year Honours List for his work as the Air Cadet Liaison Officer at RAF Valley. He also presented Squadron Leader Mark Sharp, OC B Flight, with a Flight Safety Award. The Squadron’s main charity event was an organised airfield “track day” where participants were able to pay for the privilege of driving their cars or riding their motorcycles around a purpose designed circuit marshalled by members of the Royal Air Force Motorsports Association. The day, was a huge success attracting a generous attendance and special guest MotoGP rider James Ellison. The day raised approximately £5000.

Flight Lieutenant M E W Pert flew 44 displays during the 2006 season (7), many of them at various locations around Europe, with again approximately three million people watching his display. He handed over to Flight Lieutenant M J Child for the 2007 season. “Chikey” had already distinguished himself by winning the Wright Jubilee Aerobatic Trophy for the best display.