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Old 1st November 1999 | 02:31
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John Farley
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When I was a 22 year old RAE engineering apprentice I wanted to be a test pilot too. I made such a sufficient nuisance of myself to all and sundry that I got a invited (back in 1955) to see the then Commandant of ETPS. The great man of the day, Gp Capt Sammy Wroath (who was actually the first ever Commandant of the school when it was formed and the only chap brought back for a second tour in the post) started by asking me why I wanted to be a test pilot.

After we had dealt with that question and some others about what technical qualifications I would have at the end of my apprenticeship he said “You seem to be just the sort of chap we like to have on the course – but you will have to go away and learn to fly first.” OK I thought, I will get the RAF to teach me. It took me eight more years to get on the course.

So, if I can do it perhaps you can too – but think hard about your answer to that question.

If you want more of my views send your answer to [email protected]

PS I agree with everything Genghis said to you