John Severne's Military Career

John Severne joined the RAF in 1944 and gained his wings two months after World War II ended. This book captures the author's great passion for flying, whether it be in jet-fighters, light aircraft, helicopters or making model planes and gives details of his long and illustrious career.

Early Service and Training

His first posting was to No 264 Night Fighter Squadron flying the de Havilland Mosquito. On a flying instructors course at the Central Flying School, he flew a Lancaster, Spitfire and his first jet the Vampire.

Service in Germany and Awards

Posted to Germany as a flight commander on a Venom squadron, he was awarded an Air Force Cross for landing an aircraft that had caught fire.

Later Roles and Achievements

As a Squadron Leader, he became Equerry to the Duke of Edinburgh. Then followed a period as chief instructor on Britain's first supersonic fighter, the English Electric Lightning. Later he became Wing Commander Ops at the joint HQ of Middle East Command where he was involved in counter-terrorist operations in Aden.

Command at RAF Kinloss

As Station Commander of RAF Kinloss, he was responsible for the introduction of the Nimrod in 1971 and at the height of the Cold War when these new anti-submarine aircraft were a vital part of Britain's defense.