Whilst it is true to say that the aircraft Captain on the Spinningdale rescue was trained by the RAF, it is fair to say that any of the current (highly experienced) Captains at Stornoway could have carried out their part in the rescue equally well. The Stornoway 'patch' gives vast experience in mountain/coastal/cliff rescues in extremely hostile weather and dark nights(not much cultural lighting).
Remember that the winch-op plays a massive role in the successful or otherwise outcome of this kind of job. And it is not just bravery that is required from the winchman, but it is also a job that requires the ability to control a deteriorating situation in order that everyone can be safely evacuated.
This crew was a mix of ex Navy, ex RAF and ex foreign Navy - and it worked. It would equally have worked with any of the civilian trained crew from Stornoway - it is just chance who is on shift when the 'high profile' job comes in.
