Originally Posted by
blimey
Having had the pleasure of a ride in the boot when I knew most of them, they were impressively tight and a thoroughly nice bunch. One former's view: most fast jet jockeys would expect to pass one of the easiest OCUs going: it's getting in that's the hard part - make of it what you will.
At one time I would consider five of the team good mates, the others seemed nice enough. One of them offered me a ride in a nine ship practice, unfortunately I got called away at the last minute after we’d briefed, booted and spurred and were about to walk out. I never got another chance and that particular pilot tragically lost his life a few years later in a civilian flying display accident at Biggin Hill.
Having been on the display circuit myself for a short time, I fully appreciate how much commitment the team put in. Also, it’s very difficult to keep a home relationship going when you’re seldom home.