Sad, indeed!
I had the privilege of working and flying with Pete over 30 years ago on the F4 QWI staff.
He was a pilot, an officer and a man to be respected in all that he did and stood for. Never flash, a superb instructor who never used 10 words when one would do and always incisive in analysis and advice.
Looking back to those years, it was men like Pete who made one proud to serve in the Royal Air Force.
Without doubt, anyone would be confident to 'go to war on his wing'.
Pete was clearly destined to go to the highest ranks in the service. As he rose, I am sure that many, like myself, were pleased to see his talents being recognised and used.
It is a shame that a man with so much still to offer should be taken so early.
Raising a glass to Pete tonight.
(To be fair... He did not like losing a dogfight though! Not that he did very often! But then, who does?)