Monday 25th September - 1845 for 1930 - ‘The History of the C130 (Hercules) & how the RAF has used it’ & ‘The RAF – Past, Present & Future – a general overview’. Presented by Flt Lt Benjamin Goodlad, BEng (Hons), ARAes
The talk evening provides us with the bonus of two fascinating talks, the first, ‘The History of the C130 (Hercules) transport aircraft & how the RAF has used it’, will provide an overview of the RAF’s use of this iconic aircraft throughout its years of service, which came to an end for the RAF at the end of June this year. It will also show the versatility the aircraft has provided in supporting the UK’s Armed Forces around the world.
The second, ‘The RAF – Past Present & Future – a general overview’ will tell how the RAF has evolved from the 1990s to the present day. Benjamin will also look forward to potential future operations and activities that could involve the RAF.
Monday 23rd October - 1845 for 1930 ‘The RAF Heritage Group / The Retirement of the Tornado’. Presented by Sqn Ldr Rick Lipscomb combining two stories into one. It is about a factor of the RAF that little is known about and will be of interest to anyone with a passion for history or aviation in general.
His talk will look at the work of the RAF Heritage Group in ensuring the preservation and sharing of the RAF’s history and story-telling. He will focus particularly on the retirement of Tornado, but also include RAF station closures, gate guards, artwork, silverware and medals.
The retirement of the Tornado after 30 years of distinguished service, prompted great interest from the media and from museums wishing to acquire an example.
Rick will explain as to how all of these items are sought, how it is decided which museums, both RAF and civil, they will be moved to, and how these items are actually moved, many by large road transport.
AirACES is an aviation talk society, providing its members with regular talks, given by experts in many different fields related to aviation.
Talks are held at the Chichester Park Hotel, Westhampnett Road, Chichester 7pm for 7.30 start. Members £5, visitors £7 and under 16s FREE. Doors open at 6.45 no pre-booking, no reserved seating. See our website at: www.airaces.org.uk or call David Batcock on 01243 823007