RAF FLIGHT JACKET

[olddog]

Is anyone else offended by this piece of TAT (https://www.bradford.co.uk/raf100jacketbge.html?tid=367089&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImKetj5jl4wIVia3tCh2KCwqWEAQYASABEgJqpPD_Bw E&gclsrc=aw.ds)?

Apparently "Officially licensed by the Royal Air Force"

My main gripe is that it bears a set of RAF wings which should only be worn by those who have undertaken and passed an approved course of training. I fought hard to gain my wings and wear them with pride.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/700x700/raf_jacket_d6f5584d6b91b557164594ddd7bf0c3a84485597.jpg

[NutLoose]

Rather tacky, but that said nothing new, the kids Reds flying suits include it as well as rank slides.


https://www.rafmuseumshop.com/red-arrows-flying-suit.html

[Tashengurt]

If I was one of the winged master race I wouldn't be happy at all.
Wings are earnt. Sometimes we wonder how but all the same they shouldn't be trivialised like this.

Edited to say: £130!! For an anorak?!

[Wensleydale]

Can you wear it with No 2 dress, or is it just for wear with flying kit? :)

[ShyTorque]

If I was one of the winged master race I wouldn't be happy at all.
Wings are earnt. Sometimes we wonder how but all the same they shouldn't be trivialised like this.

Edited to say: £130!! For an anorak?!

Yes, I guess that's exactly the sort of person it's aimed at.

[BEagle]

I thought that the Armed Forces Act 2006 made the wearing of any military decoration, badge, wound stripe or emblem without authority a criminal offence?

And yes, I do find it offensive for Bradford Exchange to sell an article of clothing, which bears the RAF Flying Badge, to anyone not entitled to wear the badge.

Given that “RAF logos are trade marks of the UK Secretary of State for Defence and used under licence.”, according to the advertisement, who is actually 'licensing' misuse of the RAF Flying Badge in this manner?

This is even tackier though - the 'Red Arrows hoodie'.... :\

https://www.bradford.co.uk/redarrowshoodedjacketbge.html?tid=325886&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqZLHjZ3m4wIVkfntCh0KRA6FEAEYASADEgKXEfD_Bw E&gclsrc=aw.ds (https://www.bradford.co.uk/redarrowshoodedjacketbge.html?tid=325886&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq ZLHjZ3m4wIVkfntCh0KRA6FEAEYASADEgKXEfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)

[The B Word]

I agree it is proper tat (and expensive at that). The Pilot’s Flying Badge that is licensed by the MOD/RAF to suppliers is actually a facsimile of the real thing. Here is another example:

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/813x389/4e98356c_b28a_464c_bfad_074dae7f4569_4d15550448efb0e5bc8c6ee 3c45bad57436171ef.jpeg

At the end of the day it will be worn by spotters and Walts - everyone will know that too.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mod-copyright-licensing-information

[Tankertrashnav]

Flight jacket? Sounds American to me, we always referred to flying jackets, etc, in the RAF (or has that changed?)

I thought that the Armed Forces Act 2006 made the wearing of any military decoration, badge, wound stripe or emblem without authority a criminal offence?


I think you are correct, However back in the 70s I remember reading an officers' confidential order to the effect that officers were to desist from approaching and hassling civilians who were wearing RAF greatcoats, etc, as these had been sold through RAF surplus supplies, and the purchasers were fully entitled to wear them. Might have been different if they wear wearing wings, medal ribbons etc

[Wensleydale]

...and there would be open season on re-enactors groups and the like at "1940s Weekends" that are springing up all over the place.

[oldmansquipper]

Can you wear it in the officers mess bar at the Friday night beer call?

If not, it can't be real flying gear.

🙊

[olddog]

I would hope that you'd be laughed at if you wore it anywhere on a RAF Station. God knows what the SWO would say!

[Tashengurt]

Rather tacky, but that said nothing new, the kids Reds flying suits include it as well as rank slides.


https://www.rafmuseumshop.com/red-arrows-flying-suit.html

Though the Reds are looking younger and younger to me these days, I don't think anyone's going to be confused by a seven year old in a red romper.
An adult wearing a set of wings is a different matter.
I'd be too embarrassed. I feel uncomfortable wearing sports kit that suggests a sporting prowess I don't possess!

[Less Hair]

That's nothing compared to what the Italians have on offer. Some entire Air Force fashion brand:
https://www.aeronauticamilitareofficialstore.it/uk/

[MPN11]

WHAT are ‘they’ thinking of, approving this artificial tat?

My sympathy goes to my old friends, the winged master race, for the insult given by this.

[Homelover]

Personally, I think people can, (and will) wear what they want. I’m not going to take offence - Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

[Chris Kebab]

Totally agree; it's a piece of tat but if folks want to strut about in it so what.

If that's all we've got to complain about in the world.

My wife has been known to wander about in a Scotland rugby shirt - is that offensive to you folks? She did get mistaken for an international prop once but that's another story..

[Airbubba]

They let a civilian wear Navy Wings of Gold in the movies.


https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/800x1204/6b0b8e7cd790736d896309c9644bea26_e13cf0447833c2d607e146594e8 1df87f5c8f885.jpg

[ShotOne]

For heaven’s sake if only some people could get over themselves. It’s really quite unlikely that some middle-aged enthusiast would be mistaken for an RAF pilot. Keep in mind stuff like this sells because people admire and respect the RAF; why turn that into a negative?

[Lima Juliet]

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/477x855/2e1af155_7b3a_4792_875f_745e803c3aba_9f260eb3de56168dbf56305 667b95bf9143492a1.jpeg
ShotOne

i completely agree. The fact that this ‘flight jacket’ looks utter hoop anyway and is uber expensive, means that I doubt it will be a best seller. It kind of reminds me of AT’s rubbish “RAF Clothing Collection” - that was also a total load of cr@p.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-444741/Bikini-wear-make-Biggles-blush-RAF-launch-new-fashion-label.html

I think I only ever saw Clarkson in one of those awful jackets shown above with a RAF Pilot Flying Badge on it.


Still it got AT to 3-star!

[Lima Juliet]

Here is Clarkson in one of those awful jackets...

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/2000x1250/image_86251e4840990c6a081b68e37163833eacdae20e.jpeg

[Wensleydale]

The jacket may be licensed by the RAF, but surely the Queen's Crown copywrite is held by a higher authority? I believe this is why the England Cricket Team badged their kit with a Baronet's coronet rather than the royal crown in order to be able to sell replica merchandise with the same badge applied.

[heights good]

Oh, good god!

Are you all that shallow that you need to get so uptight about a bit of embroidery.... There are real issues in the world, perhaps diverting your outrage to those may be a better use of time effort and resources.

i literally could not care if every other person was wearing wings, brevets or surplus uniform. I am confident enough in myself to not have to invest my entire self worth in a piece of material.

[BEagle]

Award of the RAF Flying Badge is made only upon completion of an extremely demanding course of flying training, which will take many years under the present chaos. It is hardly a 'bit of embroidery'...

Some years ago, one of our Sqn Ldr Spec Aircrew navigators obtained a name badge for his airshow lady friend, which included the RAF Flying Badge. She would then strut around in an RAF flying suit with Sqn Ldr rank braid and this name badge... I was at an airshow at one stateside venue, which was most pleasant. Amongst our US aircrew visitors was 'Killer', a short, rather punchy 'fightergator' who instructed baby navs on the T-43 and who had a wicked sense of humour. After chatting with him for a few minutes, he asked me "Where's your AC (Aircraft Commander)?". "I'm the AC", I told him. "No, the female major", he queried. After I explained the situation, his previous humour evaporated. "Wearing something to which you're not entitled is bad enough, but lying to a brother aviator, that's unforgiveable!", he growled.

[muppetofthenorth]

WHAT are ‘they’ thinking of, approving this artificial tat?
"Kerching"

[Corporal Clott]

Just a spot of Sunday morning ‘old man’ pedantry...

[pedant on] It should be “RAF Flying Badges” as there is more than one for all Aircrew. The Pilot’s Flying Badge has two wings and the other types of Aircrew have one (Observer, Navigator, Air Gunner, Air Engineer, Air Signaller, etc...), which in 2003 was amalgamated into one Flying Badge - the Weapon System Officer (WSO) for Officer Aircrew and the Weapon System Operator (WSOp) for Non-Commissioned Aircrew (NCA). There are others too, for ground-branch Airborne Specialists like Airborne Image Analyst (IA), Airborne Technician (AT) and Fighter Controller (FC), plus also the Parachute Jump Instructor (PJI) who were given Sovereign approval over 70 years ago to be “Honorary Aircrew”. All of this is swept up in Queen’s Regulations (QRs).

As for the word “Brevet” this has for some time been misused by the ill-informed (including some in the RAF). It is actually a French word meaning certificate or diploma and originally to get one’s Brevet meant getting the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) Aviator’s Certificate or Military Flying Course Completion Certificate. Unfortunately, as you received your Certificate at the same time as your Flying Badge then some individuals got a bit confused. The French still use the word Brevet for their flying certificates - in their Brevet de Base de Pilote d'Avion, which is a basic Private Pilot’s Licence. Here is a picture:

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/381x429/image_d7b640cd2685c310a388bffdb1aa957adaebc249.png

This is one of the very first Brevets:
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/640x924/image_57d947f351ae5dfa95804a81542c69459f6f525f.jpeg


So:

1. Never The RAF Flying Badge, but just The Pilot’s Flying Badge.
2. Never a Brevet, which is a certificate, and always a Flying Badge (unless some muppet has got it wrong in a document, which happens from time to time!).

Sunday morning history lesson ends...:ok: [pedant off]

[Timelord]

Oh, good god!

Are you all that shallow that you need to get so uptight about a bit of embroidery.... There are real issues in the world, perhaps diverting your outrage to those may be a better use of time effort and resources.

i literally could not care if every other person was wearing wings, brevets or surplus uniform. I am confident enough in myself to not have to invest my entire self worth in a piece of material.



Do you not think that the uniform symbolises something important, and that it should be accorded respect? A squadron standard or regimental colour is just “a bit of embroidery “ but is accorded such reverence that even the Monarch bows to it.

[tartare]

Oh come on.
I bought a set of RAF wings at Duxford.
They sell them in the shop!
Sewed `em onto an olive green MA1 - along with the squadron patches, and jet patches of the lot I went for two fast jet jollys with.
I quite deliberately put the squadron patches in the wrong place.
On the arms.
So that when some irate punter comes up and calls me a walt, I can explain why.

[Lima Juliet]

Do you not think that the uniform symbolises something important, and that it should be accorded respect? A squadron standard or regimental colour is just “a bit of embroidery “ but is accorded such reverence that even the Monarch bows to it.


Absolutely, but a copy of a flying badge placed on a spotters jacket is something different I would offer? Indeed, if it puts the RAF up front and centre in the public’s mind, then great. Likewise, I have no issue with those that fly RAF Ensigns at various old airfields. As long as it all done respectfully and definitely not pretending to be someone they are not. There are 3 Walter Mitty examples in the links below that the USA would call ‘stolen valour’ and we should do so too:

This idiot pretending to be a pilot - who actually ended up falsifying flight tests!
https://thewaltercumpershunterclub.wordpress.com/2017/03/11/wesley-tierney/

This idiot who pretended to be a Tornado nav!
https://thewaltercumpershunterclub.wordpress.com/2016/02/03/glen-holness/

This idiot who wore a DFC and AFC to his wedding as an ex-supplier JNCO!
https://thewaltercumpershunterclub.wordpress.com/2019/07/10/liam-john-houghton-raf-bloater/

[NutLoose]

yikes

https://www.sloganite.com/products/proud-to-have-served-in-the-royal-air-force-embroidered-classic-harrington-jacket?variant=40687751559&currency=GBP&utm_campaign=gs-2018-09-19&utm_source=google&utm_medium=smart_campaign&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgYzrh4Tp4wIVBbDtCh1vjwSCEAQYAiABEgJsCvD_Bw E

[NutLoose]

At the end of the day its a bit of cloth, it's nothing to get heated up about, those that earned it know. The saddest thing i saw was when people started sowing wings on wooly pullies..

[BEagle]

Well, Corporal Clott , the certificate in my first logbook reads:

'This is to CERTIFY that in accordance with QR and ACI paragraph J727, Flying Officer (BEagle) is qualified to wear the Royal Air Force Flying Badge with effect from 16 Aug 74'. It was signed by the Chief Flying Instructor of the Royal Air College.

By the way, the Brevet de Base and the Brevet du pilot planeur are both now issued as a Modular LAPL.

Nut Loose, as you've never qualified as a military pilot, it's hardly surprising that you don't understand the emotions behind people's outrage at the wearing of the RAF Flying Badge by those not entitled.

The sewing of the badge on the NATO pullover actually started as a joke in 1977 or thereabouts. The Pilot Leader on 617 Sqn at Scampton had a wicked sense of humour and suggested it to some air wheel, who took him seriously and so we ended up with the absurdity of the cloth moth on a woolly pully.

Not as good a spoof as the infamous 'Sweater cashmere with moleskin facings' alternative Officers' No.5 mess kit which appeared in 1980-ish thanks to some wag on 115 Sqn who had amended various tailors' price lists in the OM at the aerodromes where they were flying calibration trips. Quite a few folk were taken in as the amendments were really rather authentic!

[Tankertrashnav]

That RAF bloke reminds me of the tubby types who used to come into my militaria shop and start looking at badges and ask if I had an SAS beret badge as they had lost theirs. Or the others with similarly impressive waistlines who told me they had been in the services, but with much winking and nose tapping told me they weren't allowed to speak about it!

Interesting error in the article which implies that only officers can be awarded the DFC as "only officers are pilots in the RAF". NCO aircrew can be awarded the DFC - does anyone have an example?

[NutLoose]

Quote:'This is to CERTIFY that in accordance with QR and ACI paragraph J727, Flying Officer (BEagle) is qualified to wear the Royal Air Force Flying Badge with effect from 16 Aug 74'. It was signed by the Chief Flying Instructor of the Royal Air College.

but the punter in the street isn't signed up to QR's so it is meaningless.

[Corporal Clott]

BEagle

I suggest that your Certificate is wrong as this is QR206 - there is no higher Authority than HMTQ:

206. Flying Badges - wearing of.
Flying badges are divided into two categories, those in current issue, for which aircrew are qualified under the terms of paras J727 and 728 and those no longer issued, for which members of the RAF qualified under regulations in force from time to time.

These badges are:
(a) Current issued: Pilot, Weapons Systems Officer (WSO), Weapons Systems Operator (WSOp), Fighter Controller (FC), Airborne Technician (AT), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Pilot), UAS personnel only. See para 728.

​​(b) Previously in issue: Navigator(N), Air Electronics Officer(AE), Air Electronics Operator(AE), Air Engineer(E), Air Signaller(S), Air Loadmaster(LM), Air Observer (O), Air Bomber (B), Wireless Operator (air) (S), Wireless Operator Mechanic (air) (S), Meteorological Air Observer (M), Observer (radio) (RO), Air Gunner (AG), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Navigator), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Signaller), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Engineer), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Gunner)

No where can I see “The RAF Flying Badge”??? All I can see is “Pilot” under “Flying Badges”? So I suspect your Course Completion Certificate is wrong, just like others have been with the term “Brevet”?

[Corporal Clott]

Of course, it is not just Flying Badges on the wooly-pully these days. There are also badges worn on sleeves of woolly pullies for Bomb Disposal, Parachute Wings, Parachute ‘light bulb’ (rarely seen as many incorrectly wear the wings instead - including some very senior officers), Commando Dagger, Mountain Rescue, Aero Medics/Nurses, Air Stewards/Cabin Crew Voluntary Bandsman and Marksman. :ok:

[BEagle]

No, Corporal Clott , this was not a mere 'course completion ceritifcate', it was the official certificate granting permission to wear the RAF Flying Badge which was in effect in 1974....

[binbrook]

A modern invention BEagle. A little earlier, all I got from the same establishment was a F414A saying that I was a Proficient U/T Pilot with a White rating.

[Corporal Clott]

No, Corporal Clott , this was not a mere 'course completion ceritifcate', it was the official certificate granting permission to wear the RAF Flying Badge which was in effect in 1974....

No, BEagle there is no such thing as “The RAF Flying Badge” - which one were you authorised to wear? Or were you incorrectly dressed all of those years? :p [joke]


https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/1904x1407/89988a9e_6d29_49d8_9278_b932c59dd728_75ecf14ef44a7217f765632 16cfae55c587be03d.jpeg

[ShyTorque]

At the end of the day its a bit of cloth, it's nothing to get heated up about, those that earned it know. The saddest thing i saw was when people started sowing wings on wooly pullies..

Sad or not, that was official RAF policy.

Did any of those sown wings take root and grow, btw? My wooly jumper got a bit grubby at times, but never that deep.... :E

[ExAscoteer]

this is QR206

It would appear then, that QR 206 is in error since it fails to mention in Para b the badge for Air Quartermater (QM).

[charliegolf]

It would appear then, that QR 206 is in error since it fails to mention in Para b the badge for Air Quartermater (QM).

There must surely be a few LMs, AEs and Es still serving too; and my understanding is that they are still entitled to wear the 'original' badge if they choose to?

CG

edit... Ah Golf, still not reading the whole thread eh?

[charliegolf]

Do you not think that the uniform symbolises something important, and that it should be accorded respect? A squadron standard or regimental colour is just “a bit of embroidery “ but is accorded such reverence that even the Monarch bows to it.



Never seen her bow to a badge though. And isn't any bow she gives to a colour a simple acknowledgement?

CG

[Corporal Clott]

It would appear then, that QR 206 is in error since it fails to mention in Para b the badge for Air Quartermater (QM).

As is the Remotely Piloted Air System (Pilot) RPAS(P) Flying Badge that was dropped on 1 Apr 19. However, there has been a whole bunch of errors with respect Flying Badges if you read Wg Cdr (Rtd) ‘Jeff’ Jefford’s excellent book on the subject of Observers and Navigators. However, it was never “The RAF Flying Badge” as BEagle has insisted, which was my point.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observers-Navigators-Other-Non-pilot-Aircrew/dp/1909808024

[ShotOne]

Surely flying passengers with no pilots licence (Mr Tierney) is very considerably more serious than wearing an inappropriate jacket. Conflating the two shows a major loss of perspective?

[Brian W May]

Best flying jacket I got was from European Air Transport (DHL), made in Paris, black leather with a zipped in quilted liner for cold weather and sporting a fur collar.

Luxury. When I think of my old RAF Aircrew Clothing (prior to such innovations as GoreTex), it wicked more liquid than Pampers do . . .

That jacket looks like something you'd buy in Miller Brothers . . .

[orca]

Is there a useful comparator here in rugby shirts? Do the fifteen (or so) chaps who trot out at Twickenham take umbrage at the thousands of folk wearing ‘their’ strip when only they have ‘earned it’.

[Meester proach]

I understand the umbrage. Aren’t these lot the ones that come up with hideous flying Scotsman clocks etc.

But aviation has always attracted Walts. The funniest I’ve encountered in the last few years was a passenger who said he brought a 737 for fun flying .....that’s an oxymoron surely.

However if anyone’s got a typhoon hat I’ll have it as that thing rocks...

[Lima Juliet]

I understand the umbrage. Aren’t these lot the ones that come up with hideous flying Scotsman clocks etc.

But aviation has always attracted Walts. The funniest I’ve encountered in the last few years was a passenger who said he brought a 737 for fun flying .....that’s an oxymoron surely.

However if anyone’s got a typhoon hat I’ll have it as that thing rocks...



Oh yes, proper sh!te...the nose wheel on the Lancaster is just the start!

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/700x700/image_079696bfa1006af0c3469a721e3334503affea53.jpeg
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/700x700/image_a146e05a720087932cc4e811c7ab1c39b5ea6998.jpeg


A snip at £149.95. https://www.bradford.co.uk/dambusterssculptclock.html

[Tashengurt]

Isn't that Kilroy- Silk standing by the Lancaster?

[Blossy]

Must be quite a squeeze when all 7 crew are onboard!

[Pontius Navigator]

It also depends how it is worn. As TTN said, some are clearly Walts. Some re-reactors are both realistic and credible, other ludicrous. I saw a MRAF in the wrong jacket and modern rank ribbon.

As Tartare said, he wears a selection of badges in the wrong place.

The problem arises when one is credible and in the right place. When you talk to them though you soon find they are fake.

[NutLoose]

Must be quite a squeeze when all 7 crew are onboard!

No mid upper turret, after all it is a Dambuster aircraft, at least they got that fact right, Airfix didn't, they issued the Dambuster kit with an upper turret then had to send out turretless fuselages to buyers ;)


Notice the PC dog, no longer a......
https://s7g8.scene7.com/is/image/BradfordUK/426KEN0101_alt3?scl=1.6666666666667&fmt=pjpeg&qlt=85,0 (https://s7g8.scene7.com/is/image/BradfordUK/426KEN0101_alt3?scl=1.6666666666667&fmt=pjpeg&qlt=85,0)

[pettinger93]

The outrage about wrongly worn badges also extends to submariners in the Royal Navy. The 'dolphin' badge awarded to those who have qualified as such is highly regarded in the RN, as its a long and arduous process to earn one. Some, though not all, get quite upset when its worn as by those not entitled, even as jewellery. However, I am told that, in real life, the RN does sell extra ones to any submariner, and many of which end up being worn by wives and girlfriends, as they are quite decorative. I seem to remember the Duchess of Cambridge has been seen wearing one.

[622]

Ref the dog, I think the 'non pc' hound is on the other side of the hangar doors! ;)

[Wwyvern]

Corporal Clott, I fear you are wrong. The stamp in my first Royal Air Force Pilots Flying Log Book is, "THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT W.W.YVERN IS QUALIFIED TO WEAR THE ROYAL AIR FORCE FLYING BADGE w.e.f. 14th DECEMBER 1959". Yes, it was in capitals.

[Tankertrashnav]

Mine says "...has qualified as a navigator...". No mention of a flying badge (1970). Nicely handwritten in script, I think the wording must have been a local choice.

[Dan Gerous]

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/700x700/image_079696bfa1006af0c3469a721e3334503affea53.jpeg

Ah, but the marketing strategy behind this is, it is so bad, it's good.:eek:

[diginagain]

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/700x700/image_079696bfa1006af0c3469a721e3334503affea53.jpeg

Ah, but the marketing strategy behind this is, it is so bad, it's good.:eek:
Is that a Facsimile of the Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch hanging beneath?

[The Oberon]

At the end of the day, I would pay a bit more money and buy an A2.

[Pontius Navigator]

Mine says "...has qualified as a navigator...". No mention of a flying badge (1970). Nicely handwritten in script, I think the wording must have been a local choice.
Same here 7 years earlier; would not call it 'nicely'.

[Pontius Navigator]

The outrage about wrongly worn badges also extends to submariners in the Royal Navy. The 'dolphin' badge awarded to those who have qualified as such is highly regarded in the RN, as its a long and arduous process to earn one. Some, though not all, get quite upset when its worn as by those not entitled, even as jewellery. However, I am told that, in real life, the RN does sell extra ones to any submariner, and many of which end up being worn by wives and girlfriends, as they are quite decorative. I seem to remember the Duchess of Cambridge has been seen wearing one.
I think there is a case for 'wife of' wearing a badge though in the RAF wives generally have a silver or gold miniature, and RFC before that. Problem for the Dolphin is it is attractive as it is.

Before women became submariners or aircrew you knew what they were, and given the risk of their spouse's job, and deserved such recognition.

[alfred_the_great]

I think there is a case for 'wife of' wearing a badge though in the RAF wives generally have a silver or gold miniature, and RFC before that. Problem for the Dolphin is it is attractive as it is.

Before women became submariners or aircrew you knew what they were, and given the risk of their spouse's job, and deserved such recognition.

i know at least three civvies who were awarded dolphins for their administrative assistance in various things.

[Reverserbucket]

That must be Barnes Wallis surely, not Kilroy-Silk? Incidentally, the chap with the dog appears to be wearing a Luftwaffe uniform.

[Pontius Navigator]

i know at least three civvies who were awarded dolphins for their administrative assistance in various things.

Male or Female?

I also know an RNVR Lt Cdr who wore a special forces dagger. The story is fascinating, I am not sure if he had been given authority to wear it.

I was told he had saved the life of a Belgian special forces man while he was a cadet. They awarded him the emblem.

[alfred_the_great]

Male or Female?

I also know an RNVR Lt Cdr who wore a special forces dagger. The story is fascinating, I am not sure if he had been given authority to wear it.

I was told he had saved the life of a Belgian special forces man while he was a cadet. They awarded him the emblem.

two men and one woman.

[ex82watcher]

Male or Female?

I also know an RNVR Lt Cdr who wore a special forces dagger. The story is fascinating, I am not sure if he had been given authority to wear it.

I was told he had saved the life of a Belgian special forces man while he was a cadet. They awarded him the emblem.
When I was at Eastern Radar in the early 80s,there was a RN controller,Lt,subsequently LtCdr,who always wore a green commando beret,rather than the standard RN cap.Oddly enough,his initials were SF.

[Pontius Navigator]

When I was at Eastern Radar in the early 80s,there was a RN controller,Lt,subsequently LtCdr,who always wore a green commando beret,rather than the standard RN cap.Oddly enough,his initials were SF.
The RAF was, I think, odd in not permitting red or other SF berets but I suppose it would have looked odd in the RAF Regt.

[olddog]

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/1187x1472/flying_badge_aa96e2dc1227adaf58f771c2b4eb60f0cfe0becd.jpg
As awarded Feb 1968

[olddog]

( slight thread drift) No objection to wives wearing wings or dolphins . I presented Mrs Old Dog with daiamante and siver wings on our 25th wedding anniversary. After 25 years married to me, she had earned them! She wears them with pride on appropriate occasions on her RIGHT breast. She has also inherited wings from an uncle who served in Bomber Command in WW2 which she wears on Rememberence Sunday in his memory.

[Lima Juliet]

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/1187x1472/flying_badge_aa96e2dc1227adaf58f771c2b4eb60f0cfe0becd.jpg
As awarded Feb 1968

QR770 was re-numbered to QRJ727 when QRs were re-written. However it basically states:

The term "flying badge" is used to include all badges worn by personnel who have successfully completed a prescribed course of flying training. The initial award of a flying badge is on a provisional basis. It is not deemed to be fully earned until the holder has successfully completed an operational conversion or equivalent course and has joined an operational or nonoperational unit in the capacity for which the provisional badge has been awarded.

So if you “successfully completed” the “prescribed course of flying training” for Pilots then you were awarded the Pilot’s Flying Badge. If you did so as a Navigator, then you got the Navigator’s Flying Badge. Etc...etc... The versions of Flying Badges are described in my previous post which is QR206:

206. Flying Badges - wearing of.
Flying badges are divided into two categories, those in current issue, for which aircrew are qualified under the terms of paras J727 and 728 and those no longer issued, for which members of the RAF qualified under regulations in force from time to time.

These badges are:
(a) Current issued: Pilot, Weapons Systems Officer (WSO), Weapons Systems Operator (WSOp), Fighter Controller (FC), Airborne Technician (AT), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Pilot), UAS personnel only. See para 728.

​​(b) Previously in issue: Navigator(N), Air Electronics Officer(AE), Air Electronics Operator(AE), Air Engineer(E), Air Signaller(S), Air Loadmaster(LM), Air Observer (O), Air Bomber (B), Wireless Operator (air) (S), Wireless Operator Mechanic (air) (S), Meteorological Air Observer (M), Observer (radio) (RO), Air Gunner (AG), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Navigator), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Signaller), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Engineer), The Preliminary Flying Badge (Gunner)

[chopper2004]

Interesting the Vice Chief of Surface Operations has authorised Surface Warfare Officers to wear leather jacket, at first glance it’s a USN G-1 Leather flight jacket sans the furry collar.

https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/01/09/swos-to-get-their-own-leather-jacket/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Navy%20DNR%20010920&utm_term=Editorial%20-%20Navy%20-%20Daily%20News%20Roundup


https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/1200x722/6df82a43_74bf_45f9_b19f_993df4680786_c63177a61c40624bd248b0e 9ecbda0c58b2fe367.jpeg

[ROC man]

The RAF was, I think, odd in not permitting red or other SF berets but I suppose it would have looked odd in the RAF Regt.
I believe the green beret awarded on successful completion of the All Arms Commando Course has been worn by successful RAF personnel.

[Sloppy Link]

If in a Commando unit.

[Bob Viking]

...Or those that don’t wish to follow the rules to the letter.

BV

[Herod]

OK. Some Walt is swanning around at an air show, wearing, say, Wing Commander rings. A regular airman passes him and salutes THE QUEEN'S COMMISSION. Reactions, anyone?

[Captain Radar....]

Interesting the Vice Chief of Surface Operations has authorised Surface Warfare Officers to wear leather jacket, at first glance it’s a USN G-1 Leather flight jacket sans the furry collar.

https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/01/09/swos-to-get-their-own-leather-jacket/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Navy%20DNR%20010920&utm_term=Editorial%20-%20Navy%20-%20Daily%20News%20Roundup


https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/1200x722/6df82a43_74bf_45f9_b19f_993df4680786_c63177a61c40624bd248b0e 9ecbda0c58b2fe367.jpeg
It's black though. USN flight jackets are brown.

[Maxibon]

OK. Some Walt is swanning around at an air show, wearing, say, Wing Commander rings. A regular airman passes him and salutes THE QUEEN'S COMMISSION. Reactions, anyone?

Claim damages for the broken man-made fibres in the RAF woolly pully; that said it’s probably summer, so claim for the broken threads of the poly-cotton shirt. Wait a minute, being the RAF, it’s probably short-sleeved. How about not giving a **** because the walt is a walt and to be honest, I’ve saluted enough officers senior to me who were complete strikers, as indeed, I imagine some airmen and soldiers have had a similar opinion of me. FFS what a load of contrived crap. I know I earned my flying badge and to use a hackneyed old phrase: what other people think of you is none of your business. I suppose combat stress would happily give you a course of therapy for low self-esteem issues.

[Herod]

No self-esteem issue at all. If you read my post properly, I was referring to deference to, and recognition of, the Queen's Commission, not to the man (good, bad or complete t*sser) who is wearing the uniform. Yes, put a flying badge on a wool pully if it makes you feel like a real aviator, just don't start trying to look like a real officer.

[campbeex]

https://www.bradford.co.uk/rafaviatorjacketbge.html

A snip at £299.95

[57mm]

Cool! Will go well with my Red Arrows watch........

[Two's in]

There is none of this bother if you get a proper flying badge...just ask Harry.


https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune.org-vbulletin/399x172/400px_army_air_corps_brevet_1ba69dec144ef9af140dbc8cb2157e7e dc830f96.jpg

[taxydual]

https://www.bradford.co.uk/rafaviatorjacketbge.html

A snip at £299.95

I wonder how many XXXL orders they get.

[Harley Quinn]

https://www.bradford.co.uk/rafaviatorjacketbge.html

A snip at £299.95

I wonder how many XXXL orders they get.

Err... none, they don't do fat b@st@rd size. XXL is the biggest

[Slow Biker]

I once saw an elderly gentleman patrolling the deck of a cruise ship, he was dressed in KD shorts and a KD jacket, complete with medal ribbons and a King's crown flying badge. All that was missing was his rank.

[Q-SKI]

There must surely be a few LMs, AEs and Es still serving too; and my understanding is that they are still entitled to wear the 'original' badge if they choose to?

CG

edit... Ah Golf, still not reading the whole thread eh?

once a LM alsways a LM, never a WSO/WSOP!