Ode to the RAF Tiger Moth
Going through my copies of “BUKA” the station magazine of R.A.F. Thornhill, S. Rhodesia (July 1952), I came across this Ode to the R.A.F. Tiger Moth, which after 64-years seems as apt today as it was so long ago when Chipmunks had replaced Tiger Moths in the RATG. Apart from initials “L.C.R”, author is unknown.
Passed on for those who flew in, or trained on them so many years ago.
BUKA is full of similar gems, including an article written by a NCO then at R.A.F. Thornhill (5 FTS) in 1952 recounting details of his first days of service on being posted to 5 FTS (R.A.F. Sealand) in 1929 (beats Danny by a mile!).
Ode to the RAF Tiger Moth
As published in BUKA July 1952
Farewell old Tiger, you’ve done your stuff,
For many a long year the going’s been rough;
They’ve beaten and battered you, year in and out,
But your value to training has ne’er been in doubt.
Farewell old Tiger, your days are now done,
Compared with all others you’ve had a long run;
You’ve been faithful and worthy, trusty and true,
And have trained many pilots, including “The Few”.
Farewell old stager, you’ve now been replaced
By a sleek little mono that suits modern taste;
But in your retirement you can quite safely say
You were “nulli secundus” during your day.
A place in posterity you’re certain to take
With other D.H.’s of earlier make;
In R.A.F. messes for decades to come
They will talk of you just as a faithful old chum.
So bow to the Chipmunk as you bid adieu,
And wish it the fame that has been won by you;
Your comparative qualities are open to moot,
So goodbye, old timer, and accept our salute.
L.C.R.