FAA Pilot Wings for Everyone

[BitBitJamLim]

2SL has decreed that everyone serving in the Fleet Air Arm, regardless of specialisation, will be issued a FAA “Fighting Arm" badge which is essentially a pair of RN Pilot Wings.

The badge will be worn on No. 1, 2 and 3 uniforms and is the equivalent to the Submariners’ dolphins. The recipient will wear the badge for the remainder of his/her RN career.

As someone who worked hard for the right to wear wings I am a little miffed that it now seems that everyone will be walking around wearing them.

Points?

[Gentleman Jim]

I wonder if 2SL was a failed pilot?

Gentleman Jim

[UKFAAROCKS]

Why Why Why? Will everyone be issued a set, they are mine. Wings are for us Pilots in the FAA. Unbelievable.

[airborne_artist]

Many years ago in 21 and 23 it was the custom for badged chaps to sport their wings on the shoulder of the woolly pully when in barracks. Since we only had one W/P, and they were also worn in the field, most of us used a pair of press-studs to hold the wings in place on the W/P.

A new CO arrived at 21, who decreed that wings were not to be worn on W/Ps. No-one removed the press-studs from their W/P, however, so it remained very easy to tell the badged lads from the REMFs for many years to come.

I'm pretty sure that those eligible to wear wings (P) will soon find a way to distinguish themselves from the remainder.

[ZoomBoot]

Next they'll give anyone who works with the Royal Marines a Green lid!!!!

Some sort of 8-week all arms pilot course is in order then?

The fish-heads are getting a pair of seahorses for their rig. I think it's a bad idea altogether and I can't believe that the RN is spending time and money (£66K) on this project.

If we have to go down this inane route, why not come up with a new design that signifies flying (some sort of marine bird perhaps)?

I can see this leading to a few punch-ups in the bar (there's your silver lining after all)

[orca]

The really amusing side of this is that it's supposed to engender fighting spirit. There has never been a problem with the FAA, or RM or SSN/SSBN fighting spirit.

Just because the surface fleet has identified a lack of 'the right stuff' you have to rush out some Terrane products to pin to yourself !

Yup, that'll fix it. Give everyone a nice little (non-optional) broach and we'll be so aggressive we'll be fighting in the NAAFI queue!

:ok:

[vecvechookattack]

I sent an E-Mail to 2SL this morning outlining my outrage and having to wear Pilots wings. He wasn't in the Office so I am expecting a reply on Monday.

I have to admit to not owning a No 2 Uniform though.

[Vatican69]

I really couldn't care, I know I earned my wings!

Tried looking for 2SL's edict on the Dii site...god it's awful, impossible to use.

So where will these wings be on the respective uniforms?

Anyway, it's not like a set of pilots wings gets you laid!

[Vatican69]

Well I shall look forward to receiving my new set of wings.

Personally I was more offended when they told us we couldn't wear the White Ensign on our ovies any more.

When does it all come into effect then?

[vecvechookattack]

Personally I was more offended when they told us we couldn't wear the White Ensign on our ovies any more.

Crikey. When did that arrive? I still wear a White ensign on mine

[jim2673]

One has to question the sensibilty of a few posters on this site believing they are the only members of the FAA and therfore only eligeable to wear approved insignia of the FAA. Perhaps they should ask 2SL if he would approve the wearing of a "cock" or "God wings" as they believe they can truely walk on water.
If it grates youthat much resign and leave your flying pay to those who understand the "One company" we work for.

[airborne_artist]

Anyway, it's not like a set of pilots wings gets you laid!Just having an English accent, a full set of teeth and a recent shower seems to be enough Stateside :ok:

[P6 Driver]

Anyone got an image of said badge so we can compare them with the Pilot Wings? It might make more sense then.

[UKFAAROCKS]

I agree with AA. The wings had no infulence on my girlfriend, she didn't know what they were. haha

[orca]

Shipmate,

One has to question the sensibilty of a few posters on this site believing they are the only members of the FAA and therfore only eligeable to wear approved insignia of the FAA. Perhaps they should ask 2SL if he would approve the wearing of a "cock" or "God wings" as they believe they can truely walk on water.
If it grates youthat much resign and leave your flying pay to those who understand the "One company" we work for.

Sensibility. Spelling See Me.
Therefore. Spelling See Me.
If you were only eligible (spelt correctly) to wear approved insignia you would be 98% naked. Do you mean "Only you are eligible"?
Possibly 'One Company', looks nicer.
Wings are about flying, walking on water is a different skill.
Lastly "God wings". Small g, big W";)

[jim2673]

Thanks for the corrections.....3/10 see me later!

[Charlie Time]

Did you fail grading somewhere along the line jim?

[minigundiplomat]

I would have thought an ipod badge with a red line through it would be more apt for the fisheads.

[Vatican69]

Just having an English accent, a full set of teeth and a recent shower seems to be enough Stateside http://images.ibsrv.net/ibsrv/res/src:www.pprune.org/get/images/smilies/thumbs.gif

Well there you go, I'm s:mad:t out of luck on two out of three!:}



Crikey. When did that arrive? I still wear a White ensign on mine

Couple of years back. As I understand it the powers that be felt that the general public didn't know what the White Ensign was, so we got the nice new badges that helpfully say Royal Navy on them.

[wetdreamdriver]

This was discussed today and the opinion was that it was being led by the fishheads, who felt left out by not having a badge - seems all very much like the way the USN does it!!
Perhaps they will start giving us medals next for passing courses or crossing the pond.

WDD

[SammySu]

From what I've seen they are identical to pilot wings, only with a larger anchor in the middle and without the laurels.
The whole idea is worthless. As others have said, I rather like the fact we don't strut around with wings on all our rig, and those we do wear are on the sleeves.
So now I'm going to have 2 sets of wings, only one of which means anything. The whole thing ends up being counter-productive because instead of bringing each fighting arm together (like we need that anyway) it ends up dividing us.
Wonder what Eric Brown would think, and what he would call his book these days.

[Alpha Whiskey]

I fully understand the ire being expressed here and for what it's worth, the "fisheads" don't want this either. Whilst inter-branch banter is great and all part of life in a Wardroom, the simplicity of "all of one comapany" is what makes us who we are as a Service. Whatsmore, trinkets such as this should be earned and I admire what it takes to be able to wear wings or dolphins - the fact not everyone has them it what makes them special!

Having been (and in fact currently on) near the pointy end for most of my career, I'm baffled as to who was actually canvassed on this one. After all, there is no lack of confidence or identity in the Master Race!!!:)

[Tankertrashnav]

RAF OR's of all trades have had wings for years - on the eagles at the top of the sleeve!

(BTW they ARE eagles, NOT albatrosses)

[Senior Pilot]

Thin end of the wedge, IMHO. Look at the RAN and their tin wings instead of proper cloth Wings on the Sleeve :hmm:

Stupid idea, nonetheless, and a complete WOFTAM :*

[bast0n]

When I was awarded my wings by a kind Admiral I certainly had not earned them. I had just learned to fly a few ancient aircraft without killing my instructor. I did manage to hit him on the head with a main rotor blade when he climbed out to send me on my first solo on type. As he stood on the top step he asked me if I was happy to go and I naturally turned towards him..............along with the cyclic..........and it was one of nice new one piece white helmets at that!

Since then..................Oh yes - they meant a bit more later on.

Perhaps to distinguish Pilots,(standfast Pingers), from mere mortals, (are Fisheads mortals?), they should wear no wings at all - the steely grey tint in the eye will inform all and sundry that they are worth a cuddle on the dance floor. (Men and girls of course- one cannot be picky in this day and age).

My wife tells me that I am no longer able to ruffle the old feathers on my wings as I used to.

Advice to old men. This is a public service announcement and no payment is necessary.

1. Never pass a bathroom

2. Never waste an erection

3. Never trust a fart

4. Wings mean nothing - it is the memories that matter.:ok:

Must go now - I can feel a bit of wind coming on - see 3. above.

Good night all. David

[ZH875]

why not come up with a new design that signifies flying (some sort of marine bird perhaps)?

With the lack of decent aircraft carriers, or proper aircraft I propose the following non-marine bird:


"The Dodo"

:E

(Respect the all RN Helicopter pilots & crew)

[bakseetblatherer]

Well at least there won't be fish heads impersonating Observers in the bar! Now there is a decent set of wings ;)

[Union Jack]

The badge will be worn on No. 1, 2 and 3 uniforms and is the equivalent to the Submariners’ dolphins

Hardly - the submarine badge is only awarded on completion of all the necessary additional specialist courses,including nuclear training where applicable, followed by a qualification period in a seagoing submarine with an examination on completion. On the other hand the FAA "badge", the official details of which I have not yet seen, will allegedly be handed out with the rations!:eek:

Jack

[ZoomBoot]

seems all very much like the way the USN does it!!
Perhaps they will start giving us medals next for passing courses or crossing the pond.

Our US exchange pilot pissed himself, he said we'll all look like a bunch of idiots - they usually love that kind of triv!

I feel ashamed

[STAN DEASY]

Earning wings as a proud moment even though they were only attached with velcro until further training was complete - the understated manner in which they are worn reinforced the FAA ethos and wearing them on the left breast for a tropical CTP was a special treat.

Therefter, with 'progress' SL's ceased to exist and the R in my RNR rank badges was removed (despite me striving for 18 years as a regular to earn entry into the air branch).

PWO Fisheads were campaigning for a suitable broach over 25 years ago fuelled in part by envy of the Flying badge - it now seems that by devaluing that symbol they have gone some way to achieving that aim.

This anti elitism (SL aviators were an elite!) attitude if allowed to persist throughout the service runs the risk of eroding pride in ones achievements and therefore denuding pride in ones branch and service. History has repeatedly shown that homogeneity in fighting arms leads to poor performance whereas elitism engenders pride, aspiration and achievement.

The FAA do not brag but take quiet satisfaction in what they do and how they do it so why do we need a mere bauble? The galaxy of medal ribbons sported by FAA personnel of all ranks must surely be testament enough to their ability and achievements.

yours crustily

SE

[Tourist]

airpolice.

I am trying to find some link between your post and thread.

You are, I assume, familiar with the concept of threads?
You know, someone says something, someone else adds something at least tenuously linked to the original post? hmmm?

[Tourist]

"Perhaps the light blue readers may think more of the "webbed feet" types if the standard of written English was a little better. "

Ummm, what?
Do we give the impression we care?

[vecvechookattack]

It would appear that there are not many in favour of this proposal. As previously mentioned, I sent an E-Mail to the great Sea Lord last week and will re-iterate it with another when I return to work after the Ski Champs.

[Mick Strigg]

Most menbers of the FAA, whatever trade or branch, have been wearing belt-buckles with pilots wings on for years, so what's the fuss about? These wings are the emblem of the FAA, so let's use it.

[bast0n]

Can anyone point me to fact about this? 2SL announcement and so on. Navy News seems to have missed it.............

[sarmonkey]

Okay, I'm going to keep up the FAA tradition of obvious banter:

Haven't they been giving FAA wings to just anyone for years now?

Oh calm down dears....

[minigundiplomat]

Haven't they been giving FAA wings to just anyone for years now?


Normally through the post with the RAF rejection letter.........

[Charlie Time]

Some detail would be nice.

I know I earned my wings and as long as the flying pay keeps rolling in......

[bast0n]

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/jsf_stone_crab.jpg

Just where do you stick the wings on these?

Motto "Accept task - take two paces sideways and one back".............:ok:

[sarmonkey]

Well done sir! Now, what does one do when faced with a time-critical choice between numbers 2 and 3 on your excellent list earlier? Couldn't agree more with number 4, by the way...

[NutLoose]

My question is not why it is like wings, but why period?

Given the stretched budgets these days, why go to the expense of producing a badge and then the costs involved in adding those to the uniforms and the papertrail that no doubt will be produced along the way............
Bar adding a trinket that may appear enticing to new recruits, what real purpose does it fulfil?

That said the RAF reintroducing the Eagle all be it at a time when things were not so bleak could be construed as the same thing........

My biggest WHY must be for the rank of J/T, could anyone here tell me the reason for removing the J/T rank and replacing it with that of an SAC Tech ???
As far as I can see bar the Tech trade going dual trade, something in the Civilian world (indeed we do more than just the two so it still is not compatable) we have done for years, and something that was also current under the J/T rank, so what was the point of doing it?
You would need to replace the rank badges with new as the J/T's were promoted or left the service, so bar the outlay of the badges, everything pertaining to the rank structure from QR's down would have to be ammended or reprinted to reflect the additional rank and the demise of the other, I would hate to put a ball park figure on the costs involved, but you could no doubt of bought a lot of sweeties with the money squandered in these eyes.

[asdaasbo]

jim2673,
You miss the point. What identifies us as RN is our uniform, the same uniform that we all wear. You'll note that, unlike our RAF collegues, RN aircrew don't wear wings on No3 uniform. I for one am proud of the fact that, as a branch, we are far more joined up then the RAF for example
The issue here is the use of pilots wings for everyone. I dont wear a Maroon beret because I've worked with the Parachute Regt. Why? Because I haven't earnt it. The same applies to wings IMHO.
There is nothing wrong with being proud to wear insignia that you have worked hard to earn.

Are you saying that other members of the fleet air arm haven't earnt the right to be recognized as FAA. You are only a stick jockey and if you hung around once you've parked your cab you'd realise where the real hard work id done. You can train a monkey to ride a bike but have you ever seen one fix a puncture.

Personally i like the idea but not using wings as the first opinion it brings to mind is what a c#@k

[bast0n]

SARMONKEY

Now, what does one do when faced with a time-critical choice between numbers 2 and 3 on your excellent list earlier?

If you have to ask you have forgotten what a fart is like. Did I mean that? Perhaps I have got it the wrong way round. Happens in the RN you know..................:ok:

[ianp]

Cool for the lookers, they will get the squashed moth and pilots wings :ok:

[covec]

I take it that the premise "all of one Company" is a bit of spin to the FAA then?

Personally I always thought that they gave away fish-head wings anyway.....compensation for loss of iPods as it were.

[bast0n]

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/Fishheadwings.jpg

Just somehow it does not look right - unless of course it is a flying fish..............:ok:

[covec]

Looks like a good insignia to me!!! The eSmell is most realistic........

No iPod leads I notice - and obviously no ROEs re "How To Deal With Pirates And Win".

[Union Jack]

Just somehow it does not look right

Well of course not, because it is looking left, and you, David, are a very naughty boy!:=

Jack

[orca]

So to summarise the thread so far:

FAA pilots don't like the idea of their precious wings being 'given away'. FAA engineers don't like it because it would make them look like pilots who are, to a man, cocks, whilst real men mend the machines once they've landed. Lookers would feel a little strange wearing two different types of wings. The crabs can't see what all the fuss is about but are convinced that everyone in the FAA at some point failed Loadmaster training.

We all agree that ipod-gate was a national disgrace, but can't really see how a few badges, at great expense, or otherwise, would solve the problem. Which we don't think exists.

I agree with everyone.

[bast0n]

ORCA

FAA engineers don't like it because it would make them look like pilots who are, to a man, cocks

Oh yes indeedy!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/jsf_cock3.jpg


as opposed to the real men mend the machines once they've landed.

Used to be called grubbers as I recall - good men to the last grub!!

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/jsf_Grub.jpg

Now moving house and changing name by deed poll!

[Widger]

There was a time when the different branches had different coloured stripes and Wrens wore blue stripes, blue eyeshadow and stockings. Sadly the RN has regressed, pay 2000 was the thin end of the softwood wedge and years of moaning by the warfare community about having a "pwo" badge just like the spams, have led them to this point. Although I have 5000 hours on fixed and rotary chairs, I for one would not wish to wear said badge for all the reasons so eloquently put above. After all, WAFUs are just another weapon system and an extension of the Ship's influence in the FACA!

[HMA8]

Considering this is the Professional Pilots' Rumour Network, there seems to be quite a lot of vitriol directed our way. Bit sad really.

[vecvechookattack]

There are still Grubbers in the FAA.... In the Merlin world the Grubbers do the M trade.... as well as looking after the ground equipment. Greenies - they do the electrical stuff as well as taking care of stores demands etc.....The Greenies also load the weapons (Since the demise of the Bombheads branch) Pinkies are the Radar / Radio fellas and on top of that they normally look after the Survival Equipment - Servicing your Helmets, Goon Bags etc.

[SLSHAG]

This just highlights how out of touch the upper echelons of the RN really are. In a culture of salami slicing where the fabric of Service life is continually being gnawed away, surely our limited finances could be better spent. We insist on dishing out FRI's to FAA branches that currently have limited external recruitment, whilst overlooking those that are haemorrhaging at an increasing rate of knots, due to an extremely buoyant and lucrative civilian labour market.

If 2SL and his cronies are that misguided and/or ignorant to believe that issuing a cheap branch broach is a financially sound idea that mitigates against diabolical and disjointed government policies, then perhaps the FAA would be better served by being consumed within the Light Blue.

Gimmicks like this only alienate those with purpose, whilst satisfying the deadwood that we could well do without.

My first post because I am bl**dy annoyed.

[jim2673]

This just highlights how out of touch the upper echelons of the RN really are. In a culture of salami slicing where the fabric of Service life is continually being gnawed away, surely our limited finances could be better spent. We insist on dishing out FRI's to FAA branches that currently have limited external recruitment, whilst overlooking those that are haemorrhaging at an increasing rate of knots, due to an extremely buoyant and lucrative civilian labour market.

To bloody right SLSHAG I'm PVRing May of this year. Branch manager only gave me EC5 and have no intention of staying beyond May 2011 my reasons as follows:

1. Feed up of cuts by the back door civilianisation of 2nd line DARA/DE&S Roll back.
2, Intro of AV trade and lack of specialist knowledge, trade skill loss.
3. CPOAEM earning more that CPOAET no branch manager over the past 10 years has had the bollocks to grasp and run with this issue.PAY2000 in general and the general complete fcuking of the Artificer cadre.
4.Changing of flying pay to daily rate fror FM, now changed back because the clowns at fleet realised they fcuked up but it's OK for SO1/SO2 to sit behind desks drawing F Pay.What did this achieve other than disenfranchise a lot of experienced people for whatsavings £200K?
5. AE branch managers making LAEM's LAET'S at the stroke of a pen. POAEMs not being allowed to transfer to the POAET stream unless they has HNC/HND. What wast the point of me doing 4 year at Lee on Tiffs course 86-90?
6.Lack of promotion unlees you've done a Lx Flt SMR job.
7. RN wasting money on badges and initiatives no one wants.
8 Limited career progression due to Med Cat.
9. CHF getting Merlin 3 and threat of a move to Culdrose.
10. Divisional Officers not knowing the men (3 in total) in his division.
11. Finally and not least AE Branch Manager only offering EC5 instead of EC10+ I have to leave at some point EC5 is not showing me any loyalty and 41 is a better age to leave than 45. Not going to wait for promised "Jam Tomorrow" from the AE Branch Manager.

[davejb]

Why doesn't everyone in the RN have lots of thick gold rings on their sleeves, like 2SL etc? Surely that would improve corporate spirit, whatever that is.

Perhaps if everyone ends up looking the same it'll add a welcome spot of lightheartedness to driving your boats around, as nobody will be quite sure if the chap doing all the shouting is actually the captain or not.

By the way, it's BROOCH for a pin/emblem, BROACH is when you surface or want to name a type of cutting tool.

Dave

[vecvechookattack]

10. Divisional Officers not knowing the men (3 in total) in his division.

Give me his name and I will personally guarantee that he knows all of the men in his division by standeasy.

[timex]

Bloody hell what next, RAF daysacks, selling off RAF Roundels?

[Tourist]

vec

Since for that threat to work you would have to give up your identity, methinks you are just being an arse.

[minigundiplomat]

Im sure he'll be quaking in his boots to get a snotogram from an LFA9 Commando.

[vecvechookattack]

A person who has a division of 3 (in its self unbelievable) and doesn't know their names is an arse.

[minigundiplomat]

He'll be in good company when you phone then.....

[bast0n]

Children, children - this is meant to be an amusing thread.

May we use humour not acrimony, and not use the this thread for the settling of old sores. (Scores for those who have Wednesday afternoons off for sport).....:ok:

[minigundiplomat]

Children, children - this is meant to be an amusing thread


Apologies for the drift. Amused me no end though......:E

[orca]

I find it incredible that this bloke doesn't know who's in his division, but vecvec does!

Amazing, without even knowing the offender's name! Which must mean you know all the divisions. Just think of all the things you could have learnt rather than committing the entire FAA to memory.

I'm surprised you had time for any div work!

[bast0n]

Vice Admiral Sir Alan Massey KCB CBE ADC Second Sea Lord

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/jsf_Vice_Admiral_Alan_Massey_CBE_AD.jpg

What do we think chaps.............?

[orca]

BZ dear chap, BZ!

[vecvechookattack]

What do we think chaps.............?

I don't think it is very nice to be honest. It is probably libellous and almost definitely infringes copyright law.

[bast0n]

What? The picture of the fish.......................?

[vecvechookattack]

No the photograph of Vice Admiral Sir Alan Massey KCB CBE ADC Second Sea Lord which has a MOD copyright attached to it. A copyright which you have just infringed. Its all to do with the CPDA - Copyright, Designs and Patents act 1988. Maximum penalty is 6 Months imprisonment.

It may be worth leaving it on the internet for a couple of weeks to see what happens.

[Seldomfitforpurpose]

MOD copyright attached, looks more like a fishes head attached to me :ok:

[vecvechookattack]

A fishes head ? What is a fishes ?

[Pontius Navigator]

If I looked that old I would have retired.

I have retired and I don't look that old :}

[orca]

I think it's a mythical beast famed for slowness of thought and lack of capacity. Some historians believe the true meaning has been lost, however:-

A quick google shows that a 'fishes head' can only work up to a Vne of 8 kts and does everything on a repetitive 6 minute cycle.

The collective noun is, apparently, 'Low Capacity All Stars'.

You might also observe many 'fishes heads' completing simple tasks as a team, for example, a change of direction requiring three people and four orders/ responses.

These animals went unnoticed for centuries until their 'condition' was uncovered by modes of transport that overtook their speed of thought.

After Victorian times the 'es' was dropped in favour of the (then) more fashionable hyphen.

Latterly the two words have become melded into 'Fishhead', or even 'fish'ed'. Apparently the social stigma is still fairly damning, and they walk in a peculiar manner.

When cornered they can be dangerous, but a brief exposure to wit will render them harmless.

Glad to help.:)

[bast0n]

Veveoochichattatch

The picture came from google images - the one of the esteemed and highly qualified Admiral that is.

Actually the fish came from there as well..............

I trust that you will collate the collection of food parcels, (sponge cake with file embedded etc.) for my forthcoming incarceration.:ok:

PS - no fish please.

[airborne_artist]

With ref to the proposed fishes' head emblem/badge/whatever for the skimmers.

Will it be a real head, or a representation of one? If the former, won't it smell?

On second thoughts, it won't matter if it does. They all smell anyway :E

[Widger]

Pontious,

It is a hard job defending Britain's interests worldwide! Worse than a sunday supplement paper round in an upper middle class area.

[davejb]

and his wife Julie live with their children, James (1988),
Well, if his son is knocking 2000 years old it's no wonder the poor chap looks like a cross between Peter Cushing and Tutenkamen, is it?

As for copyright - that DID surprise me, I wouldn't have thought the MOD would have put that photo out, not with him having a fish head stuck out of his t*t, like...just goes to show what a crazy bunch those RN PR types must be, eh? If you get banged up for it let me know, I'll send you a cake with a file in - Tuna flavoured swiss roll okay?

(Edited for splelinge, though really it's for typing too fast, us siggies can do that ya know...)

[Union Jack]

Just somehow it does not look right - Bast0n

Well of course not, because it is looking left, and you, David, are a very naughty boy!

What do we think chaps.............? - Bast0n -

We think that this one somehow looks right .....:p

Jack

PS "He is also a qualified secondary-level schoolteacher" and has four children - Well, no wonder he looks so completely knackered, that and having to consider hare-brained issues - not awards! - such as this alleged new badge!:)

[vecvechookattack]

James (1988) would make him 22 I think....

Yes, I'm also surprised that the MOD issued a photograph of the Second Sea Lord with a fish protruding from his heart... But if they did then I apologise. Maybe I ought to divert my wrath towards the MOD Press office for allowing a doctored photograph to be published.

[asdaasbo]

asdassbo,
"Personally I like the idea but not using wings as a first opinion it brings to mind is what a c@*k"

I have no idea what that is supposed to mean. Where you drunk when you wrote that? Do you mean option or opinion? Without wishing to sound like ORCA....re-scrub.

If you want to voice a option/opinion, you will have far more credibility if you speak in a language we can at least understand.

Shippers i suggest you read the original post. You would retain far more credibility if when quoting someone you didn't change the words used in the quote. If you need some help understanding the gist of what i was saying then it merely strengthens the point i was making.

Besides the post being a little tongue in cheek, i have utmost respect for Naval pilots but believe that anyone attempting to imitate a pilot by wearing wings would look a complete c#@k.

[TheWizard]

What identifies us as RN is our uniform

Irrespective of which variety is being worn! :}

[orca]

Without wanting to sound like orca:

Comma.

Just saying.;)

[bast0n]

Shippers

Did you not mean:-
http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/Image1.jpghttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/Image1.jpghttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/Image1.jpg
?

[vecvechookattack]

No...thats

Truck;Truck;Truck

[bast0n]

So very lorry - I thought they were commers..........

[Union Jack]

So very lorry - I thought they were commers..........

In my capacity as a fully paid-up member of the Apostrophe Police (Plain Clothes Branch), and with a burning desire to bring this thread back on track (not:ok:) I feel that I should point out that three "Commers" equal one "Colon", which just about sums up the matter of the so-called new "badge", namely that it culminates in a load of a***e!:eek:

Jack

[bast0n]

You and your jack

I like the idea of getting back on track. Do we know if any serving chaps have had any chance of commenting on the esteemed Admirals views on badges?

I firmly believe that the FAA is and was held together by the amazing maintainers that we enjoyed/enjoy, and without whom nothing would have got off the ground. They know they are the best. Do they need a special badge?

Come on chaps speak up.

I like also the idea that you can teach a monkey to fly, but have you ever seen one mend a puncture. I have met several monkeys that you could not train to do either. Too much time on the sports field on Wednesdays.........:ok:

[orca]

There's a small, but significant, chance that some of the posters on the last five pages have actually been serving. If we assume that to be the case, and note the complete lack of anyone who thinks it's a good idea, you will arrive at a snapshot of the opinion of those still serving. This does rely on the fact that those who inhabit sites such as this represent the rest of society. Which we probably don't!

I'm not convinced that the maintainers hold the FAA together, but they're a vital piece of the jigsaw held together by something else. Masking tape probably.

[bast0n]

Oh Stripey Whale

Do you know if there has been any official consultation with the lads on this one, or has 2SL just had a bad dream and fired if off as a good retention idea?

[Pontius]

If I looked that old I would have retired.

I have retired and I don't look that old

That's 'cos you're an ex-Crab and, therefore, so used to loafing around hotels, collecting allowances and turning down duties on the basis of 'crew rest' it's small wonder you look youthful and cherubic.

It's one thing having the Chosen Ones (FAA) extracting the Michael from the Fisheads, quite another from the hoi poloi of the Junior Service :}.

PS: I think you should all get ovvies and stick as many badges, zaps and pins onto them as possible. You won't look like knobs, honestly. Just look at the colonials across the Pond; they're really cool with their badges and 'I've visited the Bridge' medals. :ok:

XXX

WAFU Retired (and look like ****e).

edited to add: and jealous because I didn't get hotels, allowances or crew rest..........until the afterlife that is.

[bast0n]

Pontious

I like it!

Any chance of posting a picture of you looking as you do now after a lifetime without the imprest bag at your side?

You do and I will............:ok:

[minigundiplomat]

WAFU Retired


An unnecessary comment. With such an inferiority complex there was never any doubt. RAF wouldnt take you eh? Must have been in good company in the FAA.

[teeteringhead]

the hoi poloi of the Junior Service ... one hates to be pedantic (no ... actually one rather enjoys it) but hoi poloi - more correctly οί πολλοί - already includes the definite article οί so doesn't require "the"......

..... and there's never been much in the way of hotels and allowances in the SH Force......

[asdaasbo]

As a current maintainer i have just conducted a straw poll amongst my peers and too a man all agreed it to be a complete waste of time. Let the pilots keep their wings, it identifies them as pilots. The FAA already have a branch badge, a cute little plane. If maintainers were to have a badge why not a crossed GS screwdriver and hammer for the grubbers and a tea cup and uckers board for the avionic types.

This whole idea is a complete farse and is just a method of someone trying to get noticed by the hierarchy.

I know lets change the uniforn to a nice salmon colour to reflect the modern pink and fluffy force.

[timex]

New badge for the maintainers...An Uckers board?:ok::ok:

[bast0n]

Minigun etc

An unnecessary comment. With such an inferiority complex there was never any doubt. RAF wouldnt take you eh? Must have been in good company in the FAA.

I expect as you grow up you will learn to distinguish the difference between banter and insult.

As a gesture of friendship and inter service cooperation I enclose some apostrophes for your future posts.'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''::ok:

[minigundiplomat]

Apostrophe's graciously accepted.

[orca]

MGD - Very clever shipmate, BZ.

Bast0n,

My sources suggest that we are actually in the period of consultancy, so the thread's originator is perhaps a little hasty to call it a decree.

For the same reason he will probably be shot, if we can work out who he might be. Hopefully he has disguised his whereabouts sufficiently. For exactly the same reason my profile says 'Somerset' when actually I work in the outer office of a two star recently caught shoplifting.

Anyway, the good news is that the troops will have their say, but the bad news is that it will be ignored. The whole lot of us will be wandering around with half-mackerels, uckers boards and err, dolphins.

The crabs have reacted by issuing everyone with a golden punctuation mark!

[asdaasbo]

Hope its a golden question mark ????????????

[bast0n]

Tinypistolambassador

Apostrophe's graciously accepted.

I like that!................:ok:

[davejb]

Should the original poster not be made to walk the plank rather than being shot?
Huh!
You try telling THAT to Admiral Byng and see how far you get!

Dave

[bast0n]

Airplod

BAST0N;
Had You not supplied MGD with so many of the little buggers he may not have wrongly installed one. It's all Your fault!

Ah - yes. But tinypistolambassador has only the ones below until he run's out............:ok:

'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''

PS and I think that maybe, jus't maybe he has a sense of humour. God help us all. Good night.

[Hummingfrog]

As an ex/now part time twin winged Crab I must object as this FAA banter. On reading through this thread I came upon post 72 by BastOn and I nearly wet myself-

- with laughter. Brilliant picture and sums up the ridiculous idea of giving everybody wings.

Well done BastOn:D (even my wife laughted when she saw the pic:eek:)

HF

[bast0n]

Singing Anura

I am so pleased that you liked my picture of 2SL with his new badge.

However - As an ex/now part time twin winged Crab I must object as this FAA banter.

"as this FAA banter?" - Eh?

Am I making this too complicated for our bewinged friends from the nether regions?

Let us start a petition to No10 to have this fanciful fancy dress decision rescinded - if indeed it has been de-rescinded in the first place. It would certainly go straight over the head of our "World Leader" as do most other things........:ok:

[orca]

The execution of Admiral Byng (by shooting) is a somewhat distasteful episode. Particularly so given that his crime was certainly no worse than handing out crap, unwanted badges.

I completely agree that we should de-un-rescind this decree that has yet to be made, but might be. In fact, given that the best form of defence is in fact a really solid defence we shouldn't act now but should wait and see if it does become a decree, and then act. Or not, if it doesn't.

[Double Zero]

First of all gents, I am not entitled to wear any pilots' wings, least of all FAA; though I worked with them / you closely from a BAe point of view ( when it was OK to say that ) - and my dad did on Seafires 1942 to Sea Harriers, 1985.

I suspect a more subtle devious plan is afoot; now, with the suspicious 2 sets of wings, forget the FA2 & F-35B, next time you stroll out on the flight deck there'll be a nice refurbished biplane waiting for you !

STOL, low RCS and maybe within budget, with a proven track record -

Sea Gladiator anyone ?

[bast0n]

Stripey Whale

I completely agree that we should de-un-rescind this decree that has yet to be made, but might be. In fact, given that the best form of defence is in fact a really solid defence we shouldn't act now but should wait and see if it does become a decree, and then act. Or not, if it doesn't.

I whole heartedly agree with your premise, but I am advised that if we continue to mock 2SL what happened to Byng will be on a par with having Wednesday sports afternoon cancelled. It is also said that the higher the fewer is the case when a mouse spins, but not in the south. Does that leave those of us in Somerset in the clearish?

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll301/tallbronzedgod/Fishheadwings.jpg

Happy fishing to you all:ok:

[Finnpog]

Maybe this idea is the first step to give the Air Branch of the new UK Defence Force some identity.

When we merge into Mauve uniforms (maybe Lilac) all FAA / RAF / AAC associates can wear the new badge to create some Brand Recognition.

Just imagine, all the light blue types getting wings (except the Rocks as they must become Ground Branch), that'll cause some ructions for some of the Sky Gods.
:p

[Union Jack]

Does that leave those of us in Somerset in the clearish?

You've got to be codding!:rolleyes:

Jack

[alfred_the_great]

The most amusing bit about this 'banter' is that the idea originated from someone in a Squadron, and it wasn't championed (originally) by 2SL. Indeed, some fairly hefty staffwork by a group of Senior Rates convinced him that this was wanted by a large proportion of the FAA and Surface Flotilla.

As a fishhead I accept the banter sent my way, but I suggest you look in your own backyard a little, if only to check safety.

If you know where to look, a lot of the discussion can be found on DII....

[bast0n]

Alf old bean

If you know where to look, a lot of the discussion can be found on DII....

OK - where then? DII........... means little to me.

[alfred_the_great]

I'm afraid not. Sharepoint is your friend....

[bleedbluetrue]

Just thought that I would point out that you do not earn the right to wear a maroon beret, merely serving with 16AA BDE will allow you that privilege!

Wearing the maroon beret whilst sporting (para) wings is a different matter though!!