As far as I know, I was the first (and only!) pilot to carry out an SRVL in the jumping bean. It was on 1st May 1982 and I was not sure whether I would be able to hover due to a slight difference of opinion with a Spanish-speaking gentleman with a big gun. Result - Gert big 'ole in my tail and damage to my rear end! All was well and the jet was flying again in the morning.
Nothing new etc!
And very good reading your account of that made. Congratulations and respect.