Letter from the Squadron - 2012
The highlight of the last 12 months for 208 Sqn has undou
btedly been the presentation of a new Sqn Standard by ACM Sir Stephen Dalton on the 24th November 2011. Despite the typically windy Welsh weather Flt Lt Will Rickets managed to heroically hang onto the new Standard in a gusty 40 knots of wind; supported by the Standard escorts the Standard was marched past in full flight. Air Cdre Ben Laite headed up a healthy representation from the Association.
Of course 2011 also saw 208 Sqn celebrating its 95th year and it was a great pleasure to welcome so many of the Association to Anglesey to share the uncommonly good weather as well as the commemorative Welsh whiskey, which was enjoyed in the mess that evening. As we enter our 96th year it is worth me making comment on the future of 208 Sqn. The current task for Hawk T1 flying training at RAF Valley will come to an end in December 2012. At the present time, no future role has been identified for 208 Sqn and although there are some options being discussed, the further we march towards the end of the year the more likely the unpalatable outcome of a 208 Sqn disbandment seems. If 208 Sqn is to disband in 2012, I intend to make it a memorable and significant event that appropriately recognises the long and proud history of 208 Sqn, of which you have all in some way been a part of. To that end, I have commenced initial planning for a disbandment event on 16 November 12. I have my fingers crossed that this will not be required, but I must accept that at present, it seems that disbandment is more likely than not. Please mark this date in your diary, as if we are to disband, I would very much like to include the Association members in the day’s events.
I look forward to addressing you again at the RAF Club in October and hope that by then I can deliver more positive news about the future.
- Wing Commander Eugene Moriarty
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