Images from 118 Sqn Stories Click Year to Jump to First Picture for that Year WWI  WWII  1941 1942 1943     1945       1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958         1976         2001   2003 2006 2007 2009 2010      WWI One hundred years ago Squadron was disbanded at Bicester on 21Nov1918.   Here are the posting notices in Routine Orders for the destinations of the other ranks - Page 1. One hundred years ago Squadron was disbanded at Bicester on 21Nov1918.   Here are the posting notices in Routine Orders for the destinations of the other ranks - Page 2. One hundred years ago Squadron was disbanded at Bicester on 21Nov1918.   Here are the posting notices in Routine Orders for the destinations of the other ranks - Page 3. One hundred years ago Squadron was disbanded at Bicester on 21Nov1918.   Here are the posting notices in Routine Orders for the destinations of the other ranks - Page 4. One hundred years ago Squadron was disbanded at Bicester on 21Nov1918.   Here are the posting notices in Routine Orders for the destinations of the other ranks - Page 5.      WWII Sergeant James Graham Lloyd a living pilot who was on 118 Sqn in 1941.   He claimed a Messerschmitt BF109 on 12th October 1941. Germans at Fassberg During World War II. Parade of Junkers Ju 52 Transports at Fassberg in the Luftwaffe days.   Anyone able to date it?      1941 Sergeant Pilot Ronald Boswell Birtles DFM - 118 Sqn WWII pilot. AC Doorne uses his pre-war skills to paint Sgt Pilot Gordon Jones. Sergeant Pilot Ron Birtles DFM - his portrait. 118 Sqn Spitfire MK IIA at Ibsley - Late June 1941.   L to R: 1. Fg. Off. H J Roberts, 2. Fg. Off. J G Stewart, 3 Fg. Off. Henry Mallory Sqn Adj, 4. CO S/L E W Bertie Wooten DFC, 5. Flt. Lt. R A Dickie Newbury DFC, A Flt Cdr., 6. Plt. Off. F T Frankie Brown, 7. Fg. Off. R L A Claude, Croix de Guerre Free French Air Force, 8. Flt. Sgt. S A Jones DFM, 9. Plt. Off. Linder, 10. Sgt. Jimmy Talalla.   Anthony Hodge says: "I have been trying to pin down the likely time that this photo was taken, and think it might be late June 41, for the following reasons - 1 - the summer landscape in the background.   2 - the identification of a Spitfire Mk11A, by the exhaust port design, spinner and props, and no cannon judging by how close the pilots are to the wings, especially Mallory who looks as if he is leaning just where the canon would be.   3 - RAF records state that 118 did not receive IIB's until July and VB's in September.   It is only a guess, but it would be good to find a definite date, if you have it?"   Anyone able to help? Ibsley 1941 and some of the Sergeant pilots of No. 118 Squadron one of several that flew Spitfires from the Hampshire airfield during the Second World War.   Ibsley was originally constructed as a satellite airfield for Middle Wallop.   It was also used to provide the flying sequences in the wartime film "First of the Few" that featured Leslie Howard.   Thanks to Cymon Birtles, grandson of Flt Sgt Birtles we have this annotated original copy.   L to R: Sgt Pilot Blackie B Blackburn from London, Sgt Pilot Alex H. Alexander from Manchester, Flt Sgt Ron Chiefy Ronald Boswell Birtles DFM from Birmingham, Sgt Pilot Gordon G R Jones from Australia and Sgt Pilot Keith Butell from Australia. Newspaper clippings telling the story of Sergeant Pilot Ronald Boswell Birtles DFM - 118 Sqn WWII pilot's gift of a dinghy for a ditched friend - Nov41. Supplement to London Gazette Dated 19Dec41 detailing the award of the DFM to Sergeant Pilot Ronald Boswell Birtles DFM - 118 Sqn WWII pilot.   Sadly he had been killed three days before on 16Dec41. 118 Sqn Song from 1941:      1942 Sgt "Jimmy" Cyril L F Talalla joined 118 Sqn in Oct41 from Ceylon. Sgt "Jimmy" Cyril L F Talalla in front of his Hurricane. Sgt "Jimmy" Cyril L F Talalla in front of his aircraft. Sgt "Jimmy" Cyril L F Talalla meets the Queen sometime in WWII. 118 Sqn pilots at Warmwell, Dorset in Feb 1942. 118 Sqn while deployed to Tangmere for the Dieppe Raid - Aug 1942. 118 Sqn in dispersal at Tangmere where they were deployed for Operation Jubilee, the Raid on Dieppe.   This is believed to have been taken as they were waiting to cover the withdrawal on 19/20th August 1942.   L to R: A. CO Sqn Ldr Bertie Wooten, B. Unknown, C. F/L Shepherd, D. Unknown, E. Unknown, F. Henry Mallory Sqn Adj, G. F/L Dickie Newbury, H. Unknown, I. Sid Watson, J. Unknown, K. Unknown, L. Unknown, N. Jimmy Talalla. Denis "Mac" McCaig AFC from Fiji 118 Sqn. Sergeant Joseph Hollingworth 118 Sqn - 1942? Sergeant Joseph Hollingworth and his wife Jean - About 1942?.      1943 Sergeant Joseph Hollingworth with his 118 Sqn Spitfire - About 1943.. 118 Sqn Aircrew - 1943.   Cyril Talalla sitting on the spinner and Flt. Sgt. Joseph Hollingworth third from the right in the front row. 118 Sqn Spitfire - 1943.   Flown by Flt. Sgt. Joseph Hollingworth.   This photo was taken by a bomber he was escorting and given to my grandparents after he was killed.   I believe the gunner who took it was American or Canadian and was in a B-17?   He actually came to their home to give it to them, at least that is the story as I know it. 118 Sqn Spitfire - 1943?      1945 Paddy Harbison climbing into his 118 Sqn Spitfire - Before Jan45. 118 Sqn probably at Horsham St Faith from where it took part in its Mustangs in a large flypast over London on 15 September 1945 - Sep45.   2nd row, 3rd from Left is Fg Off "Spike" Derrick Spencer. 118 Squadron Aircrew - Sep45. F/L Bob Austin, W/O Couston, F/Sgt. Ivatt, F/Sgt. Herring, W/O Buck Taylor, Unknown, F/Sgt. Curly Bowden, W/O Unknown, Unknown. F/L Hall, W/O Fitzpatrick, F/O Peter Darling, F/L Ron Arend, F/L Hamilton, Unknown, W/O Fred Dougan, W/O Mac Farnborough F/L Denis "Mac" McCaig, F/O Andy Anderson, F/L Frank Bullen, F/O Spike Spencer Adjutant, S/L Tony Drew DFC CO, F/O Denis Smallbones, F/O Pete Welch, F/lL Bill Lawrence, F/O Jock Dalgleish. Missing were the two Flt Cdrs: F/L William Paddy Harbison B Flt who was at Fighter Leaders; School Tangmere and F/L J R "Jock" Sutherland A Flt not yet arrived. Horsham St Faith Mess Dance Nov 1945 - L to R Standing: Lady called "Paddy", Paddy Harbison's girlfriend at the time, Paddy Harbison, Max Sutherland and wife Anne Sutherland, 118 Sqn CO Sqn Ldr Tony Drew and Mrs Drew, Iain "Jock" Sutherland and wife to be Babs Sutherland (Sister of Max), Capt Wilson.   Seated: John Davies, Station Adj., and Air Cdre John Hawtrey, newly promoted from Sector Commander. Outside Horsham St Faith Mess, an unknown officer and Bruce, the 118 Squadron dog, who positively and possessively owned the bedroom in the Mess in which he allowed Paddy and me to sleep in.   He was completely impartial; some nights he would decide he would lie on top of my legs at. say 3 am, to stop the circulation and give me pins and needles, and next night it would be Paddy's turn.   An Irish Wolfhound, he had, as you can see, great long slim legs, which gave him a fair turn of speed; paced behind the old Bedford truck round the peri track, he was clocked at 45 ,mph, and didn't look the least bit stretched.   (No, he didn't get airborne; afterburner u/s). 118 Squadron CO Sqn Ldr Tony Drew DFC stepping into the cockpit of his Mustang.   He couldn't wait to get demobbed; his one ambition was to run a pub in the New Forrest, and he evidently succeeded, according to Paddy. 118 Squadron CO Sqn Ldr Tony Drew DFC in the cockpit of his Mustang.   He couldn't wait to get demobbed; his one ambition was to run a pub in the New Forest. Paddy Harbison 118 Squadron. Fg. Off. "Spinney" Merewood 118 Squadron Engineering Officer. Top W/O Greenmere and bottom W/O Kenworthy working on a Mustang in the Hangar. Flt. Lt. Iain "Jock" Sutherland A Flt Cdr. Flt Lt Denis "Mac" McCaig AFC - 118 Sqn. Horsham St Faith Station Band playing in Kings Lynn for the Pre-Christmas dance 1945 of the National Farmers Union.   Iain Sutherland playing the double bass.      1952 118 Sqn party in NAAFI Club at Sylt in Oct52. George Aird, Doug Durrent and others 118 Sqn party at Fassberg about 1952/53. Doug Durrent, Larry Lamb and others Another 118 Sqn party at Fassberg about 1952/53. No 118 Sqn party at Fassberg some time in 1952. 118 Sqn Fassberg - Late 1952. Back Row L to R: Ron Hardy, Ken Jones, Henry Chambers, Bob Woodward, Mike Howard-Johnston (?), David Lockspeiser, Greg Allison.   Front Row: Doug Durrent, George Aird, Dennis Yeardley, Arthur Asker, Jeff Jeffrey, Larry Lamb, Chris Clayton.      1953 229 OCU at Chivenor - March to 30Apr53.  Standing with beret on at back is Les Bowles.   Anyone supply any other names? Mike Wraight at 229 OCU at Chivenor - March to 30Apr53. We had to sail and shoot as well as fly during OCU at Chivenor - March to 30Apr53.   L to R: Unknown, Mike Wraight rear and Unknown front. 118 Sqn CO Sqn Ldr Arthur Asker on the right and Flt Lt Larry Lamb on the left. - Before May53? Fred Butcher 118 Sqn at Fassberg about 1953. Mike Wraight's room, Fassberg May53. Dutch train - May53. Subscription Card to the 118 Squadron "Globetrotters" Club at Fassberg.   Dinger Bell believes that this was closed before he arrived at Fassberg in May53. Mike Wraight's first attempt at bird photography taken on the windowsill of his room in the Officers' Mess at Fassberg - about May 53. Sabre, 118 Sqn mascot, Fassberg about May53.. Three dashing young men - about 53.   L to R: Fred Butcher, ? Field and Pete Hardy. Officers' Club in downtown Celle operated by NAAFI - about 25 miles from Fassberg - about 53. Hop, Step and Jump. Mike Wraight performing in the Station Sports Day at Fassberg Jun53. Mike Wraight receiving his prize for the Hop, Step and Jump from Group Captain Walker, Station Commander RAF Fassberg at the Station Sports Day - about Summer 53. Les Bowles about summer 53. Les Bowles in No.1s. Probably on the way to Exercise Coronet deployment to Gutersloh about 23Jul53.   L to R: Nobby Clark, Bill Dodds and Pete Hardy. Also probably on the way to Exercise Coronet deployment to Gutersloh about 23Jul53.   L to R: Mike Wraight, Bill Dodds and Pete Hardy. 118 Squadron convoy on the road to Gutersloh - probably for Exercise Coronet when they were deployed from Fassberg to Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53. 118 Squadron on the road to Gutersloh - probably for Exercise Coronet when they were deployed from Fassberg to Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53.   L to R: Tony Pitcher, Armoury Sergeant Carter, Vic Marsh, Pompey Banting, Dinger Bell, Brian Webber, Unknown armourer and G B Chard. 118 Sqn having a rest on the way to Gutersloh - probably for Exercise Coronet when they were deployed from Fassberg to Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53.   L to R: Dinger Bell, Unknown, Terry Walters, Hore, Jack Hobbs, Geordie Wraith, James Robinson, Unknown. Mike Wraight deployed under canvas on Exercise Coronet at Gutersloh - 24-28Jul53. 118 Sqn at Gutersloh - probably for Exercise Coronet when they were deployed from Fassberg to Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53.   L to R: Unknown, Unknown, Sgt Mack, Pompey Banting, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown.   In the background Vampire FB.5 WA306 which belonged to 118 Sqn until Jun54 when the last Vampire was replaced by the Venom FB.1. Republic F-84 Thunderjet from Belgian Air Force at Gutersloh.   Probably for Exercise Coronet which was held at Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53. Foggy day at Gutersloh showing the old and the new.   The Lincolns were still in RAF Service up to 1955 and the first 2TAF RAF Sabre F.4s arrived at Wildenrath in May53.   Probably for Exercise Coronet when 118 Sqn were deployed from Fassberg to Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53. Pete Hardy and Fred Butcher inspecting a Vampire at Fassberg in Aug53.   The name on the side that they are pointing at is Fg Off G H Heaton. Must be one of the first RAF Sabre F.4s in 2TAF at Gutersloh.   Probably for Exercise Coronet when 118 Sqn were deployed from Fassberg to Gutersloh from 24-28Jul53. Jim Culley and Mike Wraight Fassberg Summer53. Meteor FR.9 Fassberg Jul53.   126 were built for the RAF of which 12 were subsequently supplied to Ecuador, 7 to Israel and 2 to Syria. Les Bowles National Service pilot 118 Sqn - about53. Venom WE413 A-R hood shattered in flight.   A later incident was described in Flight Comment Jul56 as follows: "Descending at 0.82M at 20,000 ft., the cockpit canopy of this Venom flew open and shattered.   The air blast removed the pilot's bone dome and a piece of perspex penetrated the tailplane.   The failure of the taper pins in the winding mechanism which caused this and two previous accidents, will be overcome by Mod. 929, which is being issued this month."   This aircraft did not arrive on the squadron until 27Oct53.   This may have been one of the two previous incidents as Mike Wraight arrived on 118 Sqn in May53 and from the position of these photographs in his album it was before their Sylt detachment in Jul54.   Anyone know more about this incident? Venom WE413 A-R tail damage from a shattered canopy.   See previous picture. Venom WE413 A-R believed to be further damage to the tail from a shattered canopy. "That is how I do it, Chaps".   Fassberg Aug53.   L to R: Ron Hardie, Mike Wraigt and Nick Streeter. Mike Wraight being taken for a ride in the back seat of a Meteor NF.11 from Ahlhorn, showing the Ahlhorn boys the way to the Fassberg range. -about 53.   Meteor description. 118 Sqn's Vampire FB.5VZ317 A-T at Fassberg in Sep53.   This aircraft arrived on 118 Sqn on Mon 21Sep53 and was passed on to 98 Sqn on Thu 19Nov53. 118 Sqn's Gloster Meteor T.7 WF779 used for training and instrument checks at Fassberg in Aug53. Ricochet damage to the leading edge of the wing on 118 Sqn Vampire FB.9 WA374 whilst rocketing on the Fassberg Range - 7Sep53. Mike visited Farnborough in Sep53 and took this shot of the Vulcan prototype.   Vulcan description. Mike visited Farnborough in Sep53 and took this shot of the Short Seamew which was about one month old. Mike visited Farnborough in Sep53 and took this shot of the Handley Page Victor. de Havilland DH.110 Sea Vixen coming in to land at the Farnborough Air Show - Sep53.   At this time not known as the Sea Vixen.   Sea Vixen Description. Fassberg main gate - Oct53. Officers' Mess RAF Fassberg - Oct53. Farewell to the outgoing Air Officer Commanding No 2 Group Air-Vice Marshal Hector McGregor CB, DSO who handed over command on 9Nov53.   Cess Crook is holding the umbrella.   During his tenure he held the rank of Air Commodore but was promoted to Acting Air Vice Marshal on 1 Sep53.   From his time onwards the post held the rank of Air Vice Marshal. Farewell to the outgoing Air Officer Commanding No 2 Group Air-Vice Marshal Hector McGregor CB, DSO who handed over command on 9Nov53.   Here they are getting ready the variety of chariots to convey the AOC. Farewell to the outgoing Air Officer Commanding No 2 Group Air-Vice Marshal Hector McGregor CB, DSO who handed over command on 9Nov53.   The AOC being "conveyed" during his farewell to RAF Fassberg. Dining In Night - suspect Fassberg about 1953.   L to R: Unknown back to bar, Les Bowles half a head, Jeff Jeffrey foreground, Dave Lockspeiser rear only top of head showing, Mike Wraight, Paddy English holding the tankard, Doc ? trying to drink it, Unknown eyes only at rear, Regiment Officer combing hair.   Can anyone name the unknowns? 118 Sqn Venom FB.1 WE415 A-Y.   Arrived on the Squadron on 27Oct53 and became Cat4R on 7Sep54.   Looks brand new so maybe this was taken about Nov53. Another shot of 118 Sqn Venom FB.1 WE415 A-Y.   Arrived on the Squadron on 27Oct53 and became Cat4R on 7Sep54.   Looks brand new so maybe this was taken about Nov53. Very early Meteor PR10 (these did have the rounded Mk 4 tails) - later productions had the Mk 8 tail, at Fassberg. Mike Wraight's personal Venom FB.1 WE400 A-T on 118 Sqn at Fassberg in Dec53.   This aircraft arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 2Oct53 and returned to 29MU High Ercall on Thu 7Jul55.   Mike and his groundcrew Simonized this pursuit ship until it was the fastest on the squadron! Another shot of Mike Wraight's personal Venom FB.1 WE400 A-T on 118 Sqn at Fassberg in Dec53.   This aircraft arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 2Oct53 and returned to 29MU High Ercall on Thu 7Jul55.   Mike and his groundcrew Simonized this pursuit ship until it was the fastest on the squadron! Mike Wraight in front of his personal Venom FB.1 WE400 A-T on 118 Sqn at Fassberg in Dec53.   This aircraft arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 2Oct53 and returned to 29MU High Ercall on Thu 7Jul55.   Mike and his groundcrew Simonized this pursuit ship until it was the fastest on the squadron!   Click to see what some fool then did to it! The 118 Sqn Barrack Block attic party Fassberg.   CO Arthur Asker has just cut the Xmas cake - Christmas 1953.   Can anyone put names to the faces? No 118 Sqn Christmas Party in Fassberg Mess Dec 1953 Signed Christmas menu December 1953 Other Ranks Mess ready for Christmas Dec 53 - Fassberg. Christmas 1953, Lofty Freeman and Bob Newton with a "borrowed" sign. Christmas 1953, Bar Staff L to R: Arthur Farnie, Albert Short, T F C Hobbs and Dinger Bell. Flying Officer McLennan, Fassberg - Dec53 in front of Venom FB.1 WE400 F which arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 2Oct53 and went to 29 MU on Thu 7Jul55. 118 Sqn Venom FB.1 WE445 A-T from Fassberg - about Dec53.   WE445 A-T arrived on 118 Sqn on Tue 29Dec53 and left for 48MU on Wed 13Jul55.   Venom description. Mike Wraight's room table ready for guests - Christmas 1953. Mike Wraight's Party - Christmas 1953.   L to R: Ian Craig, Mike Wraight, Jim Culley, Ted Stratton, Bill Dodds and Fred Butcher. Mike Wraight's Christmas Party at Fassberg - Dec 53.   L to R: Ian Craig, Bill Dodds, Mike Wraight, Jim Culley and Ted Stratton. Another shot at Mike Wraight's Christmas Party at Fassberg - Dec 53.   L to R: Ian Craig, Bill Dodds, Fred Butcher, Jim Culley and Ted Stratton. Mike Wraight - "Steely" from 118 Sqn at Fassberg - about Dec53. On the way to Sylt APC 118 Sqn 29Dec53. 118 Sqn Venom FB.1s on the way to Sylt from Fassberg - 29Dec53.   Venom FB.1 WE388 arrived on 118 Sqn on Wed 7Oct53 and left for 145 Sqn on Wed 23Mar55. Five 118 Sqn Venom FB.1s on the way to Sylt - 29Dec53. 118 Sqn Vampire FB.5s on the way to Sylt - 29Dec53.   WA392 A-Y arrived on 118 Sqn on Wed 21May52 and left for 10MU at Hullavington on Fri 11Jun54.   WA234 A-D behind arrived on 118 Sqn on Tue 29May51 and left for 10MU on Wed 28Jul54. 118 Sqn's Venom FB.1 WE388 A-M on the way from Fassberg to Sylt - 29Dec53.   WE388 A-M arrived on 118 Sqn on Wed 7Oct53 and left for 145 Sqn on Wed 23Mar55. Formation of four 118 Sqn's Venom FB.1s on the way from Fassberg to Sylt - 29Dec53.   The nearest Venom is WE411 A-Q which arrived on 118 Sqn on Thu 29Oct53 and left for 29 MU High Ercall on Thu 16Jun55.   The leader's Venom WE388 A-M arrived on 118 Sqn on Wed 7Oct53 and left for 145 Sqn on Wed 23Mar55. Hamburg from the air taken on the way to Sylt, 29Dec53. Hamburg from the air, looks like the docks, taken on the way to Sylt, 29Dec53. Island of Sylt from a Venom FB.1 flying in for a 118 Sqn APC - 29Dec53. End of Sylt island from a Venom FB.1 flying in for a 118 Sqn APC - 29Dec53. End of Sylt island in the sunlight from a Venom FB.1 flying in for a 118 Sqn APC - 29Dec53. Officers' Mess Sylt, New Year's Eve - 31Dec53.   L to R: Ted Stratton, CO Sqn Ldr Arthur Asker, Ian McLennan, Mike Wraight, Henry Chambers and Fred Butcher.      1954 3 dramatic storm scenes at Sylt during the detachment in Jan54 which had appalling weather. Sylt APC 118 Sqn 29Dec53 to 31Jan54.   L to R: Jumper Jones, Bernie Darrington, Doug Durrent and Ricky Lauurie. Sylt APC 118 Sqn 29Dec53 to 31Jan54.   L to R: Brian Rogers, R G V Irish, Pete Hardy and Les Cook. Sylt APC 118 Sqn 29Dec53 to 31Jan54.   L to R: Bill Dodds, Alan Powell, Flt Cdr Jim Culley and Arthur Yeomans. Venom with damage to the leading edge of the wing as a result of flying too close and collecting the air-to-air gunnery banner and it's vertical pole.   Probably Sylt visit in Jan54 or Jul54? Target towing Tempest at 118 Sqn's Sylt APC - Jan54. Hawker Tempest V: First flown in 1943, the Hawker Tempest V was the fastest and most powerful fighter in the world when it entered RAF service in April 1944.   Two months later the Tempest squadrons were assigned to the defence of Great Britain, operating against the V-1 flying bombs which were being launched against London.   The Tempest's high speed made it the ideal interceptor in this new role.   The Tempest squadrons subsequently moved to the continent with 2nd TAF.   Crew: 1; Powerplant: one 1,686Kw (2,260 hp) Napier Sabre IIA, IIB or IIC 24-cylinder H type engine; Performance: max speed 700km/h (435mph); range 2,092km (1,300miles); service ceiling 10,975m (36,000ft); Dimensions: wing span 12.5 m (41ft); length 10.26m (22ft 8in); height 4.9m (16ft 1in); Weight: 6,187kg (13,640lb) loaded; Armament: four 20mm (0.79in) Hispano Mk V cannon; external stores up to 907kg (2,000lb). A Fassberg Party - Say no more! - about 54?   L to R: Unknown, Pete Hardy, Unknown and Cess Crook. 118 Sqn Meteor T.7 WF836 A-X - about early 1954.   WF836 A-X arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 8Jun51 and left for 4 Sqn on Mon 26Apr54. RAF Fassberg Team against RAF Ahlhorn in the Inter-Wing Aircrew Cup at RAF Ahlhorn - 1954.   L to R rear row: Unknown, Unknown, Pete Sanderson, Mike Wraight, Henry Chambers, Unknown and Unknown.   Front row: Fred Butcher, rest all Unknown.   Anyone add more names? Some action shots in the Inter-Wing Aircrew Cup RAF Fassberg against RAF Ahlhorn at RAF Ahlhorn - 1954. Fred Butcher and Henry Chambers pose for a photo in 118 Sqn's Meteor T.7 WF836 A-X - About 1954.   WF836 A-X arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 8Jun51 and left for 4 Sqn on Mon 26Apr54. Mike Wraight - About 1954. Mike Wraight's Venom FB,1 A-F WE400 - About 1954.   WE400 A-F arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 2Oct53 and left for 29MU High Ercall on Thu 7Jul55. Vampire with 118 Sqn Flash around 1954. Steely Mike Wraight sitting in a Vampire - about54. Mike Wraight in goal for the 118 Sqn Soccer Team at Fassberg - about Jan54. Mike Wraight taking a goal kick for 118 Sqn's Soccer Team at Fassberg - about Jan54. Bill Asker CO 118 cutting cake before Feb 1954 22 Venoms from No 118 Sqn, part of the Fassberg Wing, in the Dusseldorf Flypast 1954. 118 Sqn Aircrew Fassberg - Feb54.   L to R Rear Row: F/S Ryans, Ian McLennan, Bill Dodds, Laurie, Ian Craig, "Nobby" Clark, Ted Stratton, Roy Irish, Fred Butcher, Brian Rogers, Sgt Ron Hardie.   Front Row: Charlie Powell, Mike Wraight, Butch Hoagland, Alan Powell, Sqn Ldr Arthur Askew, CO 118 Sqn, Denis Yeardley, Les Cook, "Jumpy" Jones, Henry "Pots" Chambers.   On leave: Les Bowles, Nick Streeter and Arthur Yeoman. 118 Sqn Meteor T.7 flown by Fred Butcher and Henry Chambers - before 29Apr54.   Meteor T.7 WF836 A-X arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 8Jun51 and was passed to 4 Sqn on Mon 26Apr54, so this photo must have been taken before that last date. 118 Sqn Vampire T.11 taken from the Meteor in the previous shot - before 29Apr54.   The under wing drop tanks confirms this as a Vampire T.11 and not a Venom.   Probably Vampire T.11 WZ517 Z which arrived on 118 Sqn on Thu 29Oct53 and was sent back to Marshall's of Cambridge on Mon 18Feb57 for modifications. 118 Sqn Group in Fassberg Mess Round Old Cannon that was Stolen Back and Forth from Celle Mess 1954. Bob Davies, Peter "Ginger" Hill and Ken "Gabby" Potts on the military boat train on posting to Fassberg - Feb54. 118 Sqn Groundcrew party Fassberg - 53 or 54. Postcard of Wahn presumably purchased during a 118 Squadron detachment to Wahn - probably for Exercise Battle Royal held from 22-28th September 1954.   It is interesting that the 4 Sqn photograph taken the year before on Exercise Coronet claims to be on the top of the civilian airport building, which is presumably the one on the lower left.   It looks as though there is seating on its roof.   However, the picture appears to have been taken in the restaurant on the lower right.   (Click to compare)   Thanks to research by Norman Giffin, the Comet in the top picture is the first civilian jet transport to land at Wahn, now Cologne/Bonn international airport.   It is interesting that it is a BOAC Comet and not BEA. Fassberg Summer Ball 1954.   L to R: Ian Craig, Signals Liaison Officer, Jumpy Jones, Fred Butcher holding glass in front, Bernie Dorrington, Mike Wraight on stool, Mrs Jones, Arthur Yeomans and Henry Chambers. Pamela and Charles Gibbs, OC 118 Sqn at the Fassberg Summer Ball 1954. Wg Cdr and Mrs Smith, OC Flying Wing Fassberg after the Summer Ball 1954. After the Summer Ball 1954, 0700 hrs next morning in the pool, before breakfast!   L to R: Unknown, Unknown back, Unknown and Mike Wraight. Mike Wraight receiving the prize for the Hop, Step and Jump at the Fassberg Station Sports day 1954.nst one name. Mike Wraight's room cupboard Fassberg 54. Fassberg NAAFI - about 1954. Hanger group - about 1954.   L to R: Fred Butcher, Les Cook, Denis Yeardley, CO 118 Sqn Arthur Asker, Alan Powell, Jim Culley, "Jumpy" Jones and Doug Durrant. Show in Fassberg Station Theatre Sunday 22nd August 1954. Dinger Bell walking past the Sergeants' Mess at Fassberg - 1954. Armoury wagon in front of 118 Sqn Venoms at Fassberg - about 1954. 118 Sqn Vampire T.11 Trainer used for instrument ratings and QFI checks as there was no 2-seat Venom - at Fassberg - about 1954. 118 Sqn Armourers on NAAFI break at Fassberg - about 1954.   Can anyone recognise names? Charlie Powell. An immaculate Fred Butcher. Sabre with Arthur Yeomans. Arthur Yeomans in civvies. Post card from Sylt advertising "Bare Arsed Abyssinia Beach" - 1954.   The notice in the corner has a remarkable resemblance to a certain item that appeared in 4 Squadron's coffee bar in about 1953 - perhaps this is a replacement? Mike Wraight enjoying the Summer at Sylt 2nd APC detachment 21Jun to 18Jul54. Target towing Tempest from Sylt perhaps taken during one of Charlie Powell's earlier Sylt detachments - Before 23Aug54, when he was still at Fassberg on Vampires.   David Watkins kindly tells me that from his airframe records Tempest NV928 was converted to Target Towing standard between 6 Sept 1949 and 14 Nov 1950.   It was issued to 20 MU at Aston Down on 17 Nov 1950 and delivered to Sylt 29 Aug 1952.   It was to last for two years in this role and was Struck Off Charge (SOC) on 23 Aug 1954. Mike Wraight was not happy when someone landed wheels up in his Venom WE400 at Sylt.   118 Sqn Sylt visit 10Jul54. Mike Wraight was not happy when someone landed wheels up in his Venom WE400 at Sylt.   118 Sqn Sylt visit 10Jul54. Sylt Officers' Mess party that got out of control and ended up on the beach.   L to R: Rear row: Ian Craig, Henry Chambers, Bill Dodds, Brian Rogers. Front row: Unknown, Unknown, Alan Powell, Peter Hardy, Unknown and Unknown.   Anyone able to identify more culprits?!   From the weather it looks as though it might have been the Jul54 detachment? Unknown Venom loss of canopy - about 54. Landing fast + heavy rain on a wet runway = Into the mud - about Summer 54.   Assume it must be Venom FB.1 WK486 D, as the first D, WE281 flew into ground during practice attack on Army convoy, 2m SW Dollerup, W Germany killing the pilot.   WK486 D arrived on 118 Sqn on Fri 11Jun54 and was sent to 48 MU on Thu 28Apr55. 118 Sqn Armourers hard at work on a Venom FB.1 at Fassberg - about 1954.   Can anyone recognise names? Bill Dodds and Arthur Yeomans on the hanger roof at Fassberg - about 54. Avro Lincoln visiting Fassberg - about 54. Belgian Thunderjet visiting Fassberg - about 54. Dutch Republic F-84 Thunderjet visiting Fassberg - about 54. Head-on view of Dutch Republic F-84 Thunderjet visiting Fassberg - about 54. Dutch Republic F-84 Thunderjet visiting Fassberg - about 54. Chic Prigmore at Fassberg - about 1954. Bedside locker in 118 Sqn accommodation - 1954. Taffy Morris painting his bedside locker in 118 Sqn accommodation - 1954. Another 118 Sqn attic party at Fassberg - 1954.   L to R: Mick Parsons, Unknown, Bob Newton, Lofty ?, Butch Hoogland, Unknown, Dave Russell?, Unknown, Unknown, Paddy Murphy, Reg Hucker and Frank Evans sitting. de Havilland DH.106 Comet at the Farnborough Air Show - Sep54. British Forces Network Bulletin dated 19Sep54 reporting on the up and coming Exercise Battle Royal and a broadcast programme set in the future - 1971!- when they forecasted that man will be able to cruise in space. 118 Sqn Groundcrew at Fassberg ready for Exercise Battle Royal - 22-28Sep54.   Bob Taylor, Paddy Murphy at rear in beret, Unknown, George Spooner, Harry Rushden, Bob Davies and Unknown. 118 Sqn Groundcrew at Fassberg - About Oct54.   L to R: Dave Russell, Unknown, Taff Morris, Terry Walters, Unknown with screwdriver, Ken Potts having screw replaced, Bob Davies and Frank Evans.    Anyone recognise the unknowns? 118 Sqn Groundcrew party at Fassberg - About Oct54.   Anyone recognise any names? Presumably a 118 Sqn Venom FB.1 at Fassberg sometime before Apr55?   The early mark of Venom, ie., without the modified tailplane, did not have the outboard tailplane extensions.    These were fitted to the Venom FB.4s, etc. Wanted Poster for 118 Sqn CO Dangerous Dan McGibbs.   Every Christmas at Fassberg each airmens quarters was given the opportunity to decorate the attic in the block as a theme and was then entered in the station competition, this particular year, 1954, it was done as a wild west saloon hence Mr. Gibbs was a wanted man.   We were allowed to have alcohol there and the Officers and N.C.O.s were invited on Christmas eve. The 118 Sqn Barrack Block at Fassberg where the party in the attic mentioned in the previous picture occurred. Canberra flypast at Fassberg. Formation of four 118 Sqn Venom FB.1 s from Fassberg - Late 54/Early 55. Formation of four 118 Sqn Venom FB.1 s from Fassberg - Late 54/Early 55. Three 118 Sqn aircrew outside a hangar which was probably taken at Fassberg before they came up to Jever to take over their Hunter F.4s pre-May55.   L to R Unknown, Flying Officer Brian Rogers and Unknown. Mike Wraight leaving Fassberg for a basket ball match at Utersen, just North of Hamburg in the winter of 54. The 118 Sqn Barrack Block attic party at Fassberg with wives Fassberg - Christmas 1954. More partying at the 118 Sqn Barrack Block attic party - Christmas 1954. The Bar at the 118 Sqn Barrack Block attic party - Christmas 1954. Looks as though someone is expecting rain at the 118 Sqn Barrack Block attic party - Christmas 1954. 118 Sqn Venoms from Squadron Christmas Card - 1954.      1955 118 Sqn Meteor T.7. Probably one of the first aircraft on the squadron when it re-equipped. WT751 arrived on 24Apr55. 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WW660 B Jever - since it has no Sabrinas, (bullet link collectors), it is probably taken soon after arrival in April 1955. Unknown occasion when apparently USAF aircrew posed with 118 Sqn aircrew in front of the new Hunter F.4 WW660 which arrived on 118 Sqn on Wed 27Apr55 and was passed to 229 OCU Chivenor on Fri 29Apr57. L to R: Unknown; Unknown; Charlie Powell; Unknown standing; Unknown kneeling; Don Henderson standing; Unknown kneeling; Unknown. 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. Another shot of Hunter F.4 WT751 T shortly after arrival on 118 Squadron - about May55. Another shot of Hunter F.4 WT751 T shortly after arrival on 118 Squadron - about May55. Another shot of Hunter F.4 WT751 T shortly after arrival on 118 Squadron - about May55. Another shot of Hunter F.4 WT751 T shortly after arrival on 118 Squadron - about May55. Another shot of Hunter F.4 WT751 T shortly after arrival on 118 Squadron - about May55. Another shot of 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. Another shot of 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   Note the lack of "Sabrinas" which were added later to collect the links that joined up belts of 30 mm ammunition.   These were found to bounce down the fuselage and cause airframe damage.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. Another shot of 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   Note the lack of "Sabrinas" which were added later to collect the links that joined up belts of 30 mm ammunition.   These were found to bounce down the fuselage and cause airframe damage.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. Another shot of 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   Note the lack of "Sabrinas" which were added later to collect the links that joined up belts of 30 mm ammunition.   These were found to bounce down the fuselage and cause airframe damage.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. Another shot of 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   Note the lack of "Sabrinas" which were added later to collect the links that joined up belts of 30 mm ammunition.   These were found to bounce down the fuselage and cause airframe damage.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. Another shot of 118 Sqn Hunter F.4 WT751 soon after it arrived on the squadron - presumably about May55.   Note the lack of "Sabrinas" which were added later to collect the links that joined up belts of 30 mm ammunition.   These were found to bounce down the fuselage and cause airframe damage.   WT751 T had ff 9Mar55 Duncan Simpson. C/N 41H-670708. Del. 28Mar55, 5MU, 247 Sqn, 118 Sqn(T) 27Apr55, 5MU 24Aug57, A&AEE, 62 for jettison trials with 230-gall drop tanks(empty), 5MU. No 118 Sqn Hunter F4 Jever maybe original "A" after 28Apr55. No 118 Sqn Hunter F4 Q WT741 Jever 1955 - some time after 30Apr55. 118 Sqn Hunter F.4s operating on the Jever pan in front of Hanger 4. Flying Officer Mike Wraight, 118 Sqn proudly standing next to one of the first Hunter F.4s. He made his first swept wing trip in a Hunter F.4 on 16May55. No 118 Sqn Hunter F4 near Jever, Contributed by Marcus Christ who was born at Jever when his father was there in the Luftwaffe in 1967. No 118 Sqn Hunter F4 Jever June 1955. Commemorative plaque showing where the last wolf was hung in Jever forest. Arthur Yeomans. Brian Faulkes. Ian Craig strapping in. Charlie Powell standing in front of Hunter F.4 B WW660.   WW660 B was delivered to the RAF on 6Apr55 to 33MU.   Arrived on 118 Sqn on Wed 27Apr55 and left on Fri 29Mar57, arrived 28Jun57 on 229 OCU, reduced to spares May61. Denny Denison. Mike Wraight (marked) watching the German Navy receives its first 4 boats/ships at Wilhelmshaven - about Summer55. LAC Ian Frost helping Flt Lt Alan Powell to strap in on Exercise Carte Blanche which was held from 22 to 28Jun55. 93 Sqn Barbeque - 2Jul55.   L to R: 1. Unknown Lady; 2.Unknown; 3. Mary Browne; 4. John Sutton?; 5. Dave Young; 6. Jim Yates; 7. Nancy West; 8. Eric Pigdon; 9. Val Pigdon; 10. Unknown; 11. Brian Iles; 12. Mike Wraight; 13. Podge Page.    Anyone able to name the others? Squadron party to celebrate reaching 1,000 Squadron hours on the Hunter F.4.   At a rate of about 3 to 400 hours a month I guess this would have been about August 1955.   Anyone remember the date or add any names? All smart for C-in-C's parade at Jever - 16Sep55.   L to R: Fred Butcher, Brian Faulkes, Bill Dodds, Arthur Yeomans, Sabre the mascot in front next to Ian Craig squatting down, Roy Irish, Denny Dennison and Ally Powell. Another shot of them ready for C-in-C's parade at Jever - 16Sep55.   L to R: Brian Faulkes, Fred Butcher, Alan Powell, Arthur Yeomans, Bill Dodds, Sabre the mascot in front, Roy Irish and Ian Craig. Yet another shot of them ready for C-in-C's parade at Jever - 16Sep55.   L to R: Brian Faulkes, Mike Wraight, Alan Powell, Arthur Yeomans, Bill Dodds, Sabre the mascot in front, Roy Irish and Ian Craig. 118 Sqn Hunters lined up for AOC's Parade - 16Sep55.   First 3 identifiable Hunters:   Hunter F.4 E WT753 arrived on 118 Sqn on Thu 12May55 and left on Mon 19Aug57 for 5MU.   1st Flt Duncan Simpson 10Mar55 Cen Fuse C/N 41H670710. Del 1Apr55. 118Sqn E, 12May55 to 5MU 19Aug57, to 247Sqn, Broken up HAL 62, 415.30Fly Hrs.   Hunter F.4 N WT737 arrived on 118 Sqn on Thu 28Apr55 and left on Mon 8Apr57 for 222Sqn.   1st Flt 1Mar55 by Hugh Mereweather, Cen Fus C/N 41H-670794. Del 29Mar55 to 5MU, to 118Sqn N 28Apr55, to 222Sqn 8Apr57, to 229OCU as B, scrapped Coleys Nov62. 543.50 Fly Hrs.   Hunter F.4 P WT738 arrived on 118Sqn on Fri 6May55. on Thu 20Oct55 declared Cat5 after colliding with WT757, near Bremen while carrying out High Altitude cine exercise; pilot, Fg. Off. B. L. Rogers, ejected but was killed.   1st Flt 17Feb55 Hugh Merewether. Cen Fus C/N 41H-670695, Del. 25Mar55 to 5MU, to 118Sqn 6May55. AOC inspecting 118 Sqn pilots, groundcrew and Hunters - 16Sep55.   Anyone able to add names? Hunters lined up probably for a mass start for the AOC's flypast - 16Sep55. Flying Officer Brian Rogers with Squadron mascot, Sabre, on the tower of Hangar 4 believed to be on the occasion of the AOC's inspection - 16Sep55. Wing flypast for C-in-C's parade at Jever - 16Sep55. Flying Officer Ian McLennan - about Sep55. Flying Officer Ian McLennan posing in the crewroom in his new RAF 'G-suit' - about Sep55. Flying Officer Roy Irish - about Sep55. Flying Officer Roy Irish and Flying Officer Ian Craig - about Sep55. Flying Officer Brian Faulkes and Flying Officer Ian McLennan duelling in the crewroom with their new Hunter Bone Domes - about Sep55. Mike Wraight in the centre and Ken Goodwin on the right chatting up a young lady in a bar in Wilhelmshaven - about Oct55.   Apparently she was the daughter of the local Wilhelmshaven Mercedes Rep. and was into films!   Mike remembers he seems to have got a lift back to Jever from her father. Thank you letter sent with the gift of a commemorative silver salver from the Deutscher Aero Club of Bremen for 118 Sqn's contribution to their flying display - 25Oct55. Commemorative silver salver from the Deutscher Aero Club of Bremen for 118 Sqn's contribution to their flying display - 25Oct55. No 118 Sqn Hunter F4 Jever WW653 3 October 1955. No 118 Sqn 6 Hunter F4s on the pan at Jever 1955. Unusual visitor to Jever - USAF Lockheed C-121 Constellation. Anyone able to fix the date or recognise any faces? Unusual visitor to Jever - USAF Lockheed C-121 Constellation. Anyone able to fix the date? Wider view of an unusual visitor to Jever - USAF Lockheed C-121 Constellation. Anyone able to fix the date? An unusual visitor to Jever - USAF Lockheed C-121 Constellation. Anyone able to fix the date or recognise faces? No 118 Sqn 118 Sqn Party at Boss Charles Gibb's quarter at RAF Jever November 1955, Dickie Barraclough, Joan Denison, Mavis Powell, Bill Maish. 118 Sqn Dickie Barraclough some time between Oct55 and May58. No 118 Sqn at a Dining-In Night at Jever to say farewell to Station Commander G/C Tom Prickett in Dec 55.      1956 118 Sqn believed to be getting ready at Jever for Sylt in Feb56. No 118 Sqn at Sylt - Feb/Mar 1956. No 118 Sqn groundcrew being addressed in front of a Hunter at Sylt about Feb/Mar 1956. Shot from under the wing of a 118 Sqn Hunter at Sylt about Feb/Mar 1956. No 118 Sqn Party about Jan 1956. 118 Sqn Pre-Sylt Formal Aircrew and Groundcrew photo - Feb56?   The centre aircraft is the training Vampire T.11. No 118 Sqn Aircrew at Sylt - March 1956. No 118 Sqn Aircrew at Sylt in front of Hunter - March 1956. No 118 Sqn Aircrew and Groundcrew - Mar56?.   Please let us know if you can name anyone.   It appears to be against the background of a Hunter which means it is probably after Apr55 when 118 Sqn got their Hunters.   In the centre is Norman Buddin who was CO from Jan56 to 22Aug57.   A few other names suggest it was taken for the Sylt detachment in Mar56.   This type of photograph was usually taken for Sylt detachments.   I am filing it as Feb56 until we know better.   Here are our best guesses so far. 118 Sqn Sylt Party - Mar56.   L to R Back row: Unknown, Ken Goodwin, Gordon Cook, Bill Dodds, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Mitch Shearer face half hidden.   Front Row: Unknown, Unknown, Bill Brewer and Unknown standing. 118 Sqn Sylt Party - Mar56.   L to R: Unknown, Unknown, Unknown half face, Wg Cdr "Hammer" West OC 122 Wing, Unknown at rear, Gordon Cook, Unknown. 118 Sqn Sylt Party - Mar56.   L to R: Unknown, Unknown, Unknown sandwich in hand, Gordon Cook at rear, Mitch Shearer, Unknown foreground. 118 Sqn Sylt Party - Mar56.   L to R: Ken Goodwin, Unknown, Gordon Cook, Ginger Dutton at back, Bill Dodds, Bill Brewer at back, Unknown, Unknown at front and Tommy Thompson head only on right. No 118 Sqn Party Post-Sylt Bill Maish serving plus groundcrew April 1956. No 118 Sqn Party Post-Sylt Bill Maish with groundcrew April 1956. OC 122 Wing Wg Cdr Hammer West's personal Hunter F.4 XE665 with his pennant and the badges of the four Hunter squadrons based at Jever at the time, painted on the nose.   Hunter F.4 XE665 Delivered 5MU 24May55, to 118 Sqn as A held in Station Flt 17Apr56.   Wed 13Jun56 Cat3R/4R.   Uncommanded u/c lowering at high speed resulting in a port u/c up landing.   Blocked runway landing on crash strip with unlocked undercarriage.   [Click to see F540 report.].   Rtd to HAL 1957, converted to Hunter T8 delivered to 764 Sqn (RN) on 20Apr59, to 237OCU 83. No 118 Sqn Party Post-Sylt Going Home, Faulkes, Mizzlebrook, Craig, Brewer and groundcrew. No 118 Sqn in Crewroom in Uniform. Early 1956. No 118 Sqn - Bill Maish receiving winners medal for rugby competition. No 118 Sqn - Elizabeth Hughes handing out winners medals for rugby competition. St Cdr Gp Capt Sid Hughes BBQ in his garden at Jever about May 1956. St Cdr Gp Capt Sid Hughes BBQ in his garden at Jever about May 1956. St Cdr Gp Capt Sid Hughes BBQ in his garden at Jever about May 1956. St Cdr Gp Capt Sid Hughes BBQ in his garden at Jever about May 1956. St Cdr Gp Capt Sid Hughes BBQ in his garden at Jever about May 1956. No 118 Sqn Boss Adamson when sailing in Rotterdam. 1956. No 118 Sqn Birdie Biggs taking sun shot when sailing in Rotterdam. 1956. No 118 Sqn Birdie Biggs examining the charts when sailing in Rotterdam. 1956. No 118 Sqn Harbour watch when sailing in Rotterdam 1956. No 118 Sqn Summer Ball Jever Edna Riley, Shirley Maish, Bill Maish, Maureen Barrey, Dickie Barraclough, Ann Townsend, Unknown girlfriend, Paddy Hipperson, Don Riley. 1956. No 118 Sqn Model cars at Gunnery School Sylt-1 1956. No 118 Sqn Model cars at Gunnery School Sylt-2 1956. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port closer. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port over fields. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port closer over fields. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port banking away. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 2 Hunter F4s in echelon Port plan view. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port, islands in background. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port. 26Jul56. No 118 Sqn 3 Hunter F4s in echelon Port stepped down. 26Jul56. Ken Goodwin, - 2TAF Command Hunter Low-level Aerobatics display pilot - about Summer 56. Unusual shot of Ken Goodwin - 2TAF Command Hunter Low-level Aerobatics display pilot in the middle of his notorious "inverted" aeros display - about Summer 56. Ken Goodwin, Charlie Powell and Ian Craig from 118 Sqn in Paris about 1956? Covering letter to Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service sent in response to a request from his younger Sister Katherine Dover - 8Sep2006.      The rest of the document follows.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Page 1 of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   This page shows where he was born and his religion.   The left column shows service in the H.M. Forces before commissioning as an officer.   The centre column shows the dates and type of commission as an officer.   It also shows the date of the publication of the commission in the London Gazette.   Charlie was on a Direct Commission Scheme B (12 years of service), when he was killed in a Flying Accident.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Page 2 of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   RAF Form 543 shows details of his airman service.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Page 3 of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   This page shows details of his origin, birth and civil occupation.   Charlie was not married and therefore had no children.   It shows his father as Next of Kin.   It gives his previous and current engagements and shows his father is to be informed in the case of casualties.   It describes his significant features e.g. Burn scar right side of face and his current home address.   Miscellaneous gives any special details or qualifications.   Time Forfeited would be as a result of punishment.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Top of page 4 of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   This page repeats some details about Charlie but goes into more detail on Education and qualifications.   It shows courses of instruction that he has undertaken in the RAF, decoration and awards and symbols and examinations passed.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Bottom of page 4 of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   This shows all the postings in the RAF giving the date to the nearest month, Group and Command, Home or Overseas, duties, rank and Authority for the posting.   The month of Charlie's death is 11 not 1/56.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Page 5 of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   This shows his Trade Mustering, in this case to Cadet Pilot rated Very Good and Promotions, Reclassifications and Reversions.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.] Page 6 the last of Charlie Powell's RAF Record of Service.   This shows his Movement orders and arrival notifications.   [Click to see how to apply for a Record of Service.]      1957 No 118 Sqn Air and Ground Crews Mar 1957. No 118 Sqn Air Crew only Mar 1957. No 118 Sqn on a Hunter. No 118 Sqn in the Crewroom at Sylt. Ken Goodwin on his way up to Sylt in a different form of transport.   Maybe for the February 1957 or August 1957 118 Sqn Detachment. No 118 Sqn playing Rugby - Alan Powell in the white shorts. No 118 Sqn Groundcrew at Derek Hull's Demob Party.   NAAFI Attic Bar April 1957.   L to R: Derek Hull, Peter Bradbury, Ken Brown, Bert Barron, "Framp" Frampton, Cpl "Max" Maxwell. Derek Hull's Demob Party.   NAAFI Attic Bar April 1957.   Peter Bradbury performing on the table after being urged to do so to the singing of " Sing, Sing, or show us your --------------- ". Derek Hull's Demob Party coming to an end.   NAAFI Attic Bar April 1957.   L to R: Ken Brown, Cpl "Max" Maxwell, Bert Barron, "Framp" Frampton. Taff Watkin's Demob Party.   Malcolm Club Bar - about Apr/May 1957.   1. Unknown, 2. Unknown, 3. Macdonald (with hat off), 4. Dave Symonds (white shirt), 5. Bert Barron, 6. "Framp" Frampton, 7. Mac (in blazer), 8. Taff Palmer, 9. Unknown, 10. Peter Bradbury 11. Barraclough, 12. Unknown, 13. Unknown, 14. Dennis Crewe, 15. Bert Pierce, 16. Unknown (checked shirt), 17. Slim Williams (head only), 18. Unknown, 19. Unknown, 20. Maxie, 21. Unknown, 22. Roy McKinnon, 23. Unknown, 24. Unknown (drinking pint), 25. Unknown, 26. Unknown, 27. Taff Watkins.   Can anyone name any of the "Unknowns"? Taff Watkin's Demob Party.   Malcolm Club Bar - about Apr/May 1957. L to R Back row: Dave Symonds, Unknown, Mac, Peter Bradbury, Unknown at piano, Unknown, Unknown, "Framp" Frampton, Taff Watkins, Maxie back of head, Unknown; Front row: Barraclough and Bert Pierce.   Can anyone name any of the "Unknowns"? Phelan's Demob Party.   Malcolm Club Bar - about Apr/May 1957.   L to R Back row: Dennis Crewe, Dave Symonds, Unknown, Unknown, Phelan, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Ken Brown (sweater and glass), Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Unknown with guitar, MacDonald, Peter ? (accordion);   Front row: Unknown, Barraclough , Unknown, Jock (guitar), Peter Bradbury (mouth-organ).   Can anyone name any of the "Unknowns"? Phelan's Demob Party sing song.   Malcolm Club Bar - about Apr/May 1957.   L to R: Barraclough, Roy McKinnon, Unknown, Jock (guitar), Peter Bradbury, Unknown, Unknown.   Can anyone name any of the "Unknowns"? No 118 Sqn Group Summer Ball Jever 1957?. L to R Rear: Doug Fewell, Peter Baines, Pete Hunwick's Sister, Pete Hunwick, Keith Lawn, Unknown. Front Row: Al Gleadon, 118 Sqn CO Norman Buddin, Bill Brewer, Pat King kneeling, Denny Denison Bowler Hat, John Lakeman kneeling, Unknown. No 118 Sqn Disbandment Party about Aug57 - Shirley and Al Gleadon. No 118 Sqn Disbandment Party about Aug57 - Stan Howard Trumpet lead for Jade Basin 5 + 1. No 118 Sqn Disbandment Party about Aug57 - Top Table L to R: Pat King, Ken Goodwin CO S/L Norman Buddin, Chiefy, Avril Buddin. No 118 Sqn Disbandment Party about Aug57 - Bill's Table, Dickie Barraclough, Keith Lawn, Shirley Maish, Bill Maish. No 118 Sqn Disbandment Party about Aug57 - Another Table John Lakeman, Denny Denison, Keith Gray, Shirley Maish and Ann Reynolds at rear, Ann Reynolds back, Al Gleadon, Dickie Barraclough.      1958 AM Sir Humphrey Edwardes Jones C-in-C 2TAF presenting the Duncan Trophy for Gunnery to 118 Sqn CO Norman Buddin - 23Apr58. Ken Goodwin shaking hands with Air Marshal Sir Humphrey Edwardes Jones during the parade to present the Duncan Trophy for Gunnery to 118 Sqn - 23Apr58. Air Marshal Sir Humphrey Edwardes Jones C-in-C talking to Bill Maish on the parade to present the Duncan Trophy for Gunnery to 118 Sqn - 23Apr58. 118 Sqn Reformed for 1 day, on parade to receive the Duncan Trophy for Gunnery - 23Apr58.      1976 Fred Butcher's last trip landing at Northolt and met with a celebratory drink by the Station Commander RAF Northolt - Mar76.      2001      Ken's Painting Restored and Presented to the Officers' Mess GAF Jever For those of us who have had the opportunity to visit the Officers Mess at Jever over the last few years will certainly have noticed the painting of the 118 Sqn Hunter that hangs in the corridor leading to the Dining Room.   This newspaper report, early 2001?, will give us a little background info on this painting.   (Which has already been well photographed by Chris Stone-2005/15 and Pete Jarvis-2006/191) Translation: "Some 45 years ago the British Air Commodore Ken Goodwin, who served at Jever as a Flt/Lt flying the Hunter Mk.4, had his beloved aircraft painted flying past the squadron hangers by the Jever artist Bruno Albers.   After all these years this wonderful oil painting has now been returned to its place of origin, as Air Commodore Goodwin has presented it to the Jagdbombergeschwader 38 'Friesland'.   Before it could take an honoured place in the corridor of the Officers' Mess however,Buno Albers once again took possession of his earlier work and restored it.   Last weekend he handed over the painting to the Kommodore of the JaboG 38 'F', Oberst Manfred Molitor who was very pleased to receive this historical document.   "This is where it really belongs" he said." Also hanging on the wall, next to the previous painting of Ken Goodwin's flypast, is a painting from Heinz Knoke which is dated 1987.   Heinz Knoke as we know was the author of the book 'I Flew for the Führer' and served at Jever in the early part of the last war.   After the war he lived in Schortens, was involved in local politics for a number of years and finally moved away to study at the Osnabrück University.   He died in 1993 at the age of 73.      2003 Cover 118 1st Reunion 4Oct03 Inside 118 1st Reunion 4Oct03 Attendees at 118 1st Reunion 4Oct03      2006      2nd 118 Sqn Reunion Coventry 27/28Sep06 Description of 2nd Reunion 27/28Sep06. The outside covers of the Reunion Menu.      Tea before the Reunion Frank Evans before the meal. Les Caves, Keith Banting and Brian Webber reminiscing over some old photographs. Ron Wraith, Dave and Ruth Collis passing round the photographs. Round the circle from nearest on the left: Brian Webber; Ron Wraith; Dave Collis; Ruth Collis; Wilf Crutchley; Unknown Lady; Jim Robinson. Brian Webber; Ron Wraith; Dave Collis; Ruth Collis. Celia Robinson; Frank Evans and Keith Banting.      Pre-Dinner Drinks Beryl Francis; Nephew Talalla; nephew Talalla; Richard Talalla; Bob Francis and Margaret Hardy enjoy pre-dinner drinks. 118 Squadron's oldest living pilot Wing Commander John Freeborn DFC and Bar, served on the Squadron in 1941, talking to Richard Talalla on the left and Ken Goodwin.      Dinner Tables Table 1 Round the table starting with the Lady in the floral dress with her back to camera: Celia Robinson; Ruth Collis; Ron "Geordie" Wraith; Frank Evans; Mike Parsons; Ann Parsons head only; Peter Bradbury. Table 1 left to right: Bob Davies; Ron "Geordie" Wraith; Frank Evans; Mike Parsons; Ann Parsons. Table 1 left to right: Peter Bradbury; Jim Robinson; Celia Robinson; Dave Collis; Ruth Collis; Ann Parsons back of head. Table 1 Peter Bradbury. Table 2 left to right: Margaret Perrett; Tony Perrett; Anita Williams; Bryn Williams; Sylvia Webber; Brian Webber. Table 2 left to right: Bill Maish; Margaret Barraclough; Dickie Barraclough; Shirley Maish; Peter Jones; Margaret Perrett. Table 2 Clockwise round table from left foreground: Bill Maish; Dickie Barraclough back of head; Shirley Maish; Peter Jones; Margaret Perrett; Tony Perrett; Anita Williams; Bryn Williams; Sylvia Webber back; Brian Webber. Table 2 Clockwise round table from left foreground: Sylvia Webber; Brian Webber; Bill Maish top of head; Margaret Barraclough; Dickie Barraclough; Shirley Maish; Peter Jones; Margaret Perrett hidden; Tony Perrett; Anita Williams; Bryn Williams back. Table 3 Clockwise round table from left foreground: Joy Chambers; Henry Chambers; David Lockspeiser; Ken Goodwin top of head; Margaret Hardy; Ron Hardy; Fred Butcher just back; Lorna Aird; George Aird back. Table 4 Round the table from the left foreground: Maureen Gleadon; Les "Yorkie" Caves; Audrey Caves; Beryl Francis; Pat King; Audrey King; Terry Walters; Jean Walters; Alan Gleadon. Table 4 Round the table from the back in the front: Pat King; Audrey King; Terry Walters hidden; Jean Walters; Alan Gleadon; Bob Francis standing up; Maureen Gleadon; Les "Yorkie" Caves. Table 4 Round the table from the left foreground: Audrey Caves; Bob Francis; Pat King; Audrey King; Terry Walters; Jean Walters; Alan Gleadon; Les "Yorkie" Caves. Table 4 Round the table from the left foreground: Les "Yorkie" Caves; Audrey Caves; Beryl Francis; Bob Francis standing up setting up his camera; Pat King; Audrey King; Alan Gleadon; Maureen Gleadon back. Table 5 Round the table from the left: Jo Baines; Keith "Pompey" Banting; Peter Talalla; Carl Hicks (John Freeborn helper); Roy Smith (John Freeborn helper); John Freeborn; Peter Hunwick back. Table 5 Round the table from the Lady on the left: Jo Baines; Peter Talalla; Carl Hicks (John Freeborn helper); Roy Smith (John Freeborn helper); John Freeborn; Richard Talalla; Wilf Crutchley top of head; Mark Talalla; Peter Hunwick back. Table 5 Round the table from Pete Hunwick's back in foreground: Peter Hunwick back; Peter Talalla; Carl Hicks (John Freeborn helper); Roy Smith (John Freeborn helper); John Freeborn top of head; Richard Talalla; Wilf Crutchley; Mark Talalla. John Freeborn. Speech from Table 5.   Left to right from left hand corner: Keith "Pompey" Banting; Peter Talalla; Carl Hicks; Roy Smith; John Freeborn; Richard Talalla; Wilf Crutchley speechifying; Mark Talalla. Wilf Crutchley the organiser, addresses the attendees with Richard Talalla on the left and Mark Talalla on the right. Table 5 left round the table from back on front foreground: Roy Smith; John Freeborn; Richard Talalla; Wilf Crutchley; Mark Talalla; Peter Hunwick; Jo Baines; Carl Hicks back.      After Dinner Drinks Drinks at the bar afterwards, Ken Goodwin talking to Lorna Aird. Terry Walters and Tony Perrett. George Aird and Wilf Crutchley. Left to right: Frank Evans; Keith "Pompey" Banting; Marl Telalla; Ron Wraith. Terry and Jean Walters relaxing after dinner. Left to right: Frank Evans; Keith "Pompey" Banting; Ann Parsons; Mike Parsons; Mark Talalla; Ron "Geordie" Wraith.      Thursday 28th September 2006 - Visit to Jaguars. Waiting for the Coach to Jaguars Thursday morning 28Sep06 outside the hotel.    Left to right: Terry Walters; Keith "Pompey" Banting; Dave Collis; Ruth Collis. Outside the hotel.   Left to right: Richard Talalla; David Lockspeiser; Peter Jones; Wilf Crutchley; Audrey King part of head; Pat King; Ken Goodwin; Bill Maish; Shirley Maish. About to board the coach.   Left to right: Unknown; Fred Butcher back; Lorna Aird; Peter Talalla; Ron Hardy; Margaret Hardy; Unknown Lady; Unknown Lady; Wilf Crutchley walking away. About to board the coach.   Left to right: Les Caves; Bob Francis; Celia Robinson; 2 Unknown Ladies behind plant. Just round the corner.   Left to right: Unknown; Unknown Lady; Ken Goodwin; Margaret Hardy; Peter Talalla; Unknown Lady walking; Fred Butcher; Wilf Crutchley. Pete Hunwick strides on to the Jaguar floor and buys the lot. The Jaguar site at Castle Bromwich was where a large number of Spitfires were built during the war.   Badges of all Squadrons that flew Spitfires built at Castle Bromwich are hung on the walls including 118 Squadron.   Bill Maish, Dave Lockspeiser and Ken Goodwin pose holding one of the Spitfire photographs from the walls of the old factory. The whole group who visited Jaguars.      2007 L to R: Terry Walters, Frank Evans and Brian Webber - all ex-118 Sqn during a visit to the new Cold War Museum at Cosford - 20Sep07.      2009      3rd 118 Sqn Reunion Coventry 8/9 May 2009 118 Sqn friends meet in Bussleton, Western Australia after 53 years.   L to R: Ken Potts, George Spooner and Johnny Cooke. Description of 3rd Reunion 8/9May09. The wonderful menu created by Wilf Crutchley for the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion 8May09. 118 Squadron Reunion - Coventry 8th May 2009 - Video showing 118 Squadron Reunion on 8th May 2009 Before Speeches clip from Ken Pott's film.   This first clip opens with Ken Potts driving home on arrival back in England from where he now lives in Australia.   It continues with shots of the 118 Sqn Reunion filmed before the speeches - many sending get well messages to George Spooner who also lives in Australia but could not make the reunion.   The recorded commentary explains most of the shots.   (4 mins 13 secs) One of the tables at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09. Clockwise round the table from the Lady in the foreground left: 1.Unknown Lady; 2. Unknown Lady; 3. Anita Williams; 4. Bryn Williams; 5. Peter Bradbury; 6. Ken Barney; 7. Bob Davies; 8. Unknown. Another shot of the same table at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09. L to R: Anita Williams; Bryn Williams; Peter Bradbury; Ken Barney; Bob Davies. Table 4 and a wider room view at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09. Clockwise round the table from the left: 1. Unknown; 2. Helen Harbison; 3. AVM Paddy Harbison; 4Diana Woodward; 5. Bob Woodward; 6. Joy Chambers; 7. Henry Chambers; 8. Babs Butcher; 9. Fred Butcher. Another table at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09. Clockwise round the table from the left: 1. Unknown; 2. Unknown Lady; 3. Bill Maish; 4 to 8 Unknown. Table 7 at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09. Anyone have some names? Unknown table number at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09. Clockwise round the table starting with the Lady on the left: 1. Celia Robinson, 2. Brian Webber; 3. Sylvia Webber; 4. Bob Taylor; 5. Joyce Taylor; 6. Joan Hill; 7. Peter Hill; 8. Unknown; 9. Unknown; 10. James Robinson. Unknown table number at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Can anyone supply names? Table number 5 at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Can anyone supply names? Unknown table number at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Can anyone supply names? Unknown table number at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Can anyone supply names? Another shot of Table number 5 at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Can anyone supply names? Wilf Crutchley, the organiser of the reunion, starting his speech at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Can anyone supply names? Video showing 118 Squadron Reunion on 8th May 2009 Apologies and introduction clip from Ken Pott's film.   Wilf Crutchley thanks John Freeborn, George Aird and David Lockspeiser for their support while organising the reunion.   Wilf then asks for someone else to take on the next organisation having done two himself.   Wilf announced apologies from Charles Gibbs whose health prevented him from travelling at the last minute; Iain Sutherland, a WWII pilot who was too ill to travel but had sent his son; Ken Potts from Australia who had won a raffle prize to travel to any sporting fixture in the world and had chosen this 118 Sqn reunion.   Ken had brought over a camera to record the event for George Spooner who could not make it from Australia.   Wilf welcomed the whole Talalla family who had attended from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia; AVM Paddy Harbison and Helen, his wife had travelled from Virginia, USA and was the longest wartime member of 118 Sqn as he served from 1943 to its disbandment in 1946.   Finally he mentioned Bob Taylor who had travelled from Spain.   (4 mins 13 secs) Members of Table 1 listening attentively to the speeches at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Clockwise from the foreground empty chair: 1. Unknown; 2. Unknown Lady; 3. Beryl Francis; 4. Anita Williams; 5. Bryn Williams; 6. Peter Bradbury; 7. Bob Davies; 8. Ken Barney. 118 Squadron Reunion - Coventry 8th May 2009 - Video showing 118 Squadron Reunion on 8th May 2009 Tribute to Sqn Ldr Arthur Asker clip from Ken Pott's film. Wilf Crutchley pays tribute to Sqn Ldr Arthur Asker the Guest of Honour and Molly his wife.   (9 mins 28 secs) Recorder recorded at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Ken Potts at work. Table 2 listening to Wilf Crutchley at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Anyone fill in the other names? Table 3 at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Anyone fill in the other names? 118 Squadron Reunion - Coventry 8th May 2009 - Video showing 118 Squadron Reunion on 8th May 2009 Tribute to Flight Lieutenant Jimmy Talallla clip from Ken Pott's film.   Poet Michael Kendrick wrote a poem in tribute to the WWII 118 Squadron pilot.   This was read by Dineen Talalla, Jimmy's Granddaughter.   (4 mins 37 secs) Another shot of Table 3 at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Anyone fill in the other names? AVM Paddy Harbison thanking Wilf Crutchley for organising the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Anyone fill in the other names? 118 Squadron Reunion - Coventry 8th May 2009 - Video showing 118 Squadron Reunion on 8th May 2009 pitch about Michael Kendrick's books on poetry, toast to Arthur and Mollie Asker and David Lockspeiser's toast to absent friends.   (4 mins 24 secs) Two unknown attendees at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Anyone fill in the other names? Table 5 at the 3rd 118 Sqn Reunion - 8May09.   Anyone fill in the names? The morning after the 3rd Reunion - 9May09.   L. to R.: Dinger Bell, Mrs Bell, Unknown, Jim Robinson, Unknown, Derek Fox, Pete Hill squatting, Bob Taylor, Celia Robinson sitting, Sylvia Webber, Brian Webber, Joyce Taylor sitting, Joan Hill and John Cooke.      2010 Frank Evans says he only went out for a quiet lunch and look what happened to him! - Apr10. As you can see the florist sent this photo of the wreath Wilf Crutchley ordered for John Freeborn's Celebration of Life at Southport Crematorium on Saturday 28th August 2010.   Although on the photograph the flowers appear to be cream they are actually white (118 colours black and white).   His daughter Julia brilliantly set the ceremony up.   As the hearse pulled into the crematorium there was a flash of lightning and really good clap of thunder (I think he organised that).   The coffin was draped in the union flag , on it was a wreath of red poppies around his medals.   As the coffin was lifted from the hearse it was carried through the Guard of Honour with its Standard paraded by the local Aircrew Association including George Aird, while the Royal Air Force march was played.   During the service Bob Cossey secretary of 74 told of John's time on 74 the Battle of Barking creek and his part in the Battle of Britain, followed by a brief outline of the rest of his RAF career.   Emily Stride read the quotation from the RAF memorial window.   After the committal the Last Post was played as the Standard was dipped in salute.   A very moving moment.   There was to be a Spitfire flypast but the thunder storm and the low cloud ruled it out.