Gaining An R.A.F Pilots Brevet In WW II
Radio and News from Home
At 5 FTS (RAF Thornhill) S. Rhodesia in 1951-52 each of the Airmen's billets was supplied with a PSI Radio as seen here.
As well as the BBC Overseas Service on short-wave, one of the favourite radio stations was the commercial English language short-wave station “The Radio Club of Mozambique” broadcast from Lourenço Marques in the (then) adjacent Portuguese colony of that name. The broadcast style and format was a bit like 1950’s Radio Luxembourg and was in sharp contrast to the very stuffy, BBC-like Rhodesia Radio.
A favourite performer on broadcasts from The Radio Club of Mozambique was South African singer/comedian Al Debbo. His outrageous Afrikaner songs were memorable and brilliant hits, even to us Brits, and I remember them to this day!
At 5 FTS (RAF Thornhill) S. Rhodesia in 1951-52 each of the Airmen's billets was supplied with a PSI Radio as seen here.
As well as the BBC Overseas Service on short-wave, one of the favourite radio stations was the commercial English language short-wave station “The Radio Club of Mozambique” broadcast from Lourenço Marques in the (then) adjacent Portuguese colony of that name. The broadcast style and format was a bit like 1950’s Radio Luxembourg and was in sharp contrast to the very stuffy, BBC-like Rhodesia Radio.
A favourite performer on broadcasts from The Radio Club of Mozambique was South African singer/comedian Al Debbo. His outrageous Afrikaner songs were memorable and brilliant hits, even to us Brits, and I remember them to this day!
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Warmtoast,
All right for some ! A lot seems to have happened in ten years, and much of it for the better.
Of course, in our case: "Don't you know there's a war on !" stilled all complaints; we grumbled and put up with it, whereas I don't think you were fighting anyone in particular out where you were in '50-'51 (or were you ?).
Danny.
All right for some ! A lot seems to have happened in ten years, and much of it for the better.
Of course, in our case: "Don't you know there's a war on !" stilled all complaints; we grumbled and put up with it, whereas I don't think you were fighting anyone in particular out where you were in '50-'51 (or were you ?).
Danny.
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Oh, the happy days of hard-wired Unit broadcasting! I was a DJ/announcer on Tengah Broadcasting Service in the late 60s, where apart from links to BFBS [somehow, our programme controllers managed that somehow] we used a HUGE library of 33rpm and 45rpm records covering all genres from the Classics to The Goon Show 
A happy band of volunteers, mainly airmen but with a couple of officers on the roster too. I still have my Selangor Pewter farewell tankard, suitably engraved and presented at a 'dining out' at the cinema complex in Orchard Road [the one with the car turntable at the main entrance].
A happy band of volunteers, mainly airmen but with a couple of officers on the roster too. I still have my Selangor Pewter farewell tankard, suitably engraved and presented at a 'dining out' at the cinema complex in Orchard Road [the one with the car turntable at the main entrance].
There was nothing like a new hotel or shopping centre opening in Orchard Road. Six foot diameter rolls of firecrackers would be draped down the whole frontage from about the sixth floor level. When they were fired up the whole of Orchard Road would go IFR in decibels and red paper.
Chased the devils away, though.
Chased the devils away, though.
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The Three Day Week
20th March 1974 Andrews AFB
Whilst overseeing the refuelling of Herc XV188, the bowser driver said to me "Are you Guys really on a three day week? Geez, I wish I was over there wid'yas!"
Dusk was falling and it was raining and miserable. For a few seconds I empathised with the man.
Whilst overseeing the refuelling of Herc XV188, the bowser driver said to me "Are you Guys really on a three day week? Geez, I wish I was over there wid'yas!"
Dusk was falling and it was raining and miserable. For a few seconds I empathised with the man.
Danny,
As a footnote on your comments about the training drop out rates. I have been reading Brian Trubshaw's autobiography (the Concorde test pilot) He joined the RAF in 1942 and went to No. 4 British Flying Training School at Falcon field Mesa, nr Phoenix Arizona. He said the drop out rate was ' over 50% for various reasons' They were required to solo in 5 hours otherwise a check ride would usually result in being rejected. They were trained on PT17A and then AT6 aircraft.
mmitch.
As a footnote on your comments about the training drop out rates. I have been reading Brian Trubshaw's autobiography (the Concorde test pilot) He joined the RAF in 1942 and went to No. 4 British Flying Training School at Falcon field Mesa, nr Phoenix Arizona. He said the drop out rate was ' over 50% for various reasons' They were required to solo in 5 hours otherwise a check ride would usually result in being rejected. They were trained on PT17A and then AT6 aircraft.
mmitch.
Danny 42
On arrival in August 1951 we new arrivals were warned that when in Gwelo (the local town) for a Saturday night out we should be on our guard, because the young local farmers of Afrikaner origin considered it a duty to have a Saturday night punch-up with any Brits who they met in town. We called these Afrikaners "Yarpis", or perhaps it was a name they called themselves.
Not far from Gwelo was a town (Enkeldoorn) whose population was reputed to be 100-per cent Boer/Afrikaner and we were told if we went there we would be unlikely to come back. I didn't test this theory!
Ref my post #7420 where I mentioned South African singer Al Debbo, one of his songs I remember from my time in Rhodesia 64-years ago is "Alibama" which can be listened to here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAdMvOq41LA
I don't think you were fighting anyone in particular out where you were in '50-'51 (or were you ?)
Not far from Gwelo was a town (Enkeldoorn) whose population was reputed to be 100-per cent Boer/Afrikaner and we were told if we went there we would be unlikely to come back. I didn't test this theory!
Ref my post #7420 where I mentioned South African singer Al Debbo, one of his songs I remember from my time in Rhodesia 64-years ago is "Alibama" which can be listened to here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAdMvOq41LA
Last edited by Warmtoast; 26th Sep 2015 at 15:53.
We called these Afrikaners "Yarpis", or perhaps it was a name they called themselves.
"Jaapje", pronounced a la Warmtoast, probably comes from the Dutch pet name for "Jakob".
Jack
"Jaapje", pronounced a la Warmtoast, probably comes from the Dutch pet name for "Jakob".
Jack
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mmitch,
As many as 50% failures on a BFTS Course ? That really surprises me, but I wouldn't question an authority such as Brian Trubshaw. Even so, to expect solo on a PT-17 after only 5 hours ab initio would be ridiculous. Perhaps the UK Grading Schools were up and running when he finished ITW, and his Class had already had 5-10 hours on Tigers before they went out. My memory of the PT-17 is that, as heavier and more powerful than the TM, it flew much the same but without the "float" on landing.
The BFTS two-stage syllabus points up what I've written long ago: that the third USAAC "Basic" stage of training was superfluous, although all flying experience is valuable and we had an extra 70 hours. But no noticable improvement in the end product was ever claimed or observed.
Danny.
As many as 50% failures on a BFTS Course ? That really surprises me, but I wouldn't question an authority such as Brian Trubshaw. Even so, to expect solo on a PT-17 after only 5 hours ab initio would be ridiculous. Perhaps the UK Grading Schools were up and running when he finished ITW, and his Class had already had 5-10 hours on Tigers before they went out. My memory of the PT-17 is that, as heavier and more powerful than the TM, it flew much the same but without the "float" on landing.
The BFTS two-stage syllabus points up what I've written long ago: that the third USAAC "Basic" stage of training was superfluous, although all flying experience is valuable and we had an extra 70 hours. But no noticable improvement in the end product was ever claimed or observed.
Danny.
We had a South African pilot/captain on 48 Squadron. His nickname was Yarpie also. Wiki says:-
https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/yarpie
From Afrikaans japie, short for plaasjapie (“farm-boy”), referring to any person who grew up on a farm and is unfamiliar with city life, and hence naive and unsophisticated.
Danny.
He started in the RAF at Lords Cricket ground where he mentions 'square bashing' and ground school subjects. He was then sent to several places for 'battle training' before 5 hours on Tiger Moths (in the UK) and graded . Those not passing could be selected for navigator or air gunner.
mmitch.
He started in the RAF at Lords Cricket ground where he mentions 'square bashing' and ground school subjects. He was then sent to several places for 'battle training' before 5 hours on Tiger Moths (in the UK) and graded . Those not passing could be selected for navigator or air gunner.
mmitch.
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Re: Lords Cricket Ground
Danny, you are correct to say that the ACRC, Regents Park, which included the requisitioned parts of Lords Cricket Ground, was a reception centre where recruits were kitted out, medically examined and introduced to the ways of service life.
I am guessing that the "battle training" references relate to his time at ITW.
One other point that I noted was that the "wash out" trades are listed as Navigator or Air Gunner. I am wondering if that should read "Air Bomber"
Regards
Pete
I am guessing that the "battle training" references relate to his time at ITW.
One other point that I noted was that the "wash out" trades are listed as Navigator or Air Gunner. I am wondering if that should read "Air Bomber"
Regards
Pete
Re Lords Cricket Ground
Danny 42, Petet.
My recollection from early 44 was that after aptitude tests at ACRC you were allocated your aircrew trade,. in my case Nav/W. If it was Pilot you then went to Grading school then to ITW. If you didn't make it at Grading School you were then remustered as Navigator or Bomb Aimer.
John
My recollection from early 44 was that after aptitude tests at ACRC you were allocated your aircrew trade,. in my case Nav/W. If it was Pilot you then went to Grading school then to ITW. If you didn't make it at Grading School you were then remustered as Navigator or Bomb Aimer.
John
Danny.
His step daughter (who co wrote the book) remarks in an epilogue that he rushed through the first part because he was really interested in writing about the test flying. So maybe some details were missed out?
Well worth a read incidentally, I found it in paperback.
mmitch.
His step daughter (who co wrote the book) remarks in an epilogue that he rushed through the first part because he was really interested in writing about the test flying. So maybe some details were missed out?
Well worth a read incidentally, I found it in paperback.
mmitch.
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Gaining An R.A.F. Pilots Brevet in WW 11
Hi Danny et al. At the risk of repeating myself. A school friend and I, both 18 in March 1942, and forbidden by our fathers, both 14/18 vets, to volunteer until our 18th birthdays, volunteered for Aircrew at Shrewsbury. Big hold ups in the training meant that we did not get our papers until November. We left with another school mate on 23rd November 1942 for ACRC, Lords. It must have been a very busy day as we were inducted, inoculated, maths rested, given night vision tests at Abbey Lodge. Then collected all our kit and "marched" to Grove Court which had been taken over by the RAF . We were shown how to make up our beds, then "marched to a similar establishment on Hall Road. The garages under the flats were used as an enormous mess hall, and the food was surprisingly good.back to Grove Court and we had to scrub the (very clean) floors of our rooms. We thought that this was very cruel, but I suppose it helped the inoculations to course around our bodies. Our Corporad Gartside had us drilling next morning in cavendish Avenue. We were not allowed to wear our uniforms until the tailor (s) had made sure that they fitted. Once we were considered not to be a shower, we were marched at Light Infantry pace around. St Johns Wood and to lectures at Seymour Hall. We were posted to No 8 Initial Training Wing at Newquay on 16th January 1943 living in commandeered hotels.pay fears tree shillings per day less 1 shilling for our national insurance , which ensures that I get a pension in my old age!
After three months and exams we were now Leading Aircraftmen at seven shillings and three pence per day. When I left Barclays Bank the previous November I was paid thirty shillings a week, so I was over a pound a week better off and all found.
Because of the delays in the training system, Grading School was delayed and the time was taken up with more navigation sand lots of clay pigeon shooting and lots of drill and PT. no hardship with sea sand and good company.
Grading School started on 10 thJune at Wolverhampton where we shared the airfield with Boulton Paul. We were bussed to a satellite airfield some twenty miles to the north. We were to fly twelve hours, with a seven hour check by the flight commander. I didn't do too well at seven, but at my 12 hour with the Squadron Commander I was allowed to go off solo! What a thrill!!
Then it was off to the Aircrew Despatch Centre at Heaton Park, Manchester and Liverpool and the Mauretania to New York and on to Moncton.
Arrived Moncton 2 nd September 1943, and No 1 B.F.T.S Terrell, Texas,
4th October. 18 Course.
Started flying Stearman 9 th October, soloed 20th after 8.30 Last trip was on 1st December and did 70 hours on the Stearman. Weeks leave, then the mighty AT6A or Harvard or Texan!!
started on AT6A on 7 December 1943. 8 hours cockpit drill, first flight was on
11th December. Solo after 5.15. Got mumps on my 20th birthday, put back to 19 Course and awarded Wings on 18th June 1944. Hours on AT6A 140.
After three months and exams we were now Leading Aircraftmen at seven shillings and three pence per day. When I left Barclays Bank the previous November I was paid thirty shillings a week, so I was over a pound a week better off and all found.
Because of the delays in the training system, Grading School was delayed and the time was taken up with more navigation sand lots of clay pigeon shooting and lots of drill and PT. no hardship with sea sand and good company.
Grading School started on 10 thJune at Wolverhampton where we shared the airfield with Boulton Paul. We were bussed to a satellite airfield some twenty miles to the north. We were to fly twelve hours, with a seven hour check by the flight commander. I didn't do too well at seven, but at my 12 hour with the Squadron Commander I was allowed to go off solo! What a thrill!!
Then it was off to the Aircrew Despatch Centre at Heaton Park, Manchester and Liverpool and the Mauretania to New York and on to Moncton.
Arrived Moncton 2 nd September 1943, and No 1 B.F.T.S Terrell, Texas,
4th October. 18 Course.
Started flying Stearman 9 th October, soloed 20th after 8.30 Last trip was on 1st December and did 70 hours on the Stearman. Weeks leave, then the mighty AT6A or Harvard or Texan!!
started on AT6A on 7 December 1943. 8 hours cockpit drill, first flight was on
11th December. Solo after 5.15. Got mumps on my 20th birthday, put back to 19 Course and awarded Wings on 18th June 1944. Hours on AT6A 140.
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Re: Lords Cricket Ground
Taphappy
As part of my project on air crew training, I was doing further research on the ACRC today and, as you say, by 1944 it had taken on the role of classification of aircrew.
This change resulted in the introduction of a further ACRC based at Scarborough.
The standard 3 week course (kitting out, medicals and introduction to service life) had been extended so that a series of aptitude tests could be undertaken. These included General Test (intelligence, education), mathematics, mechanical comprehension, instrument comprehension, observation, co-ordination and auditory morse code.
Results from these tests were sent to a central classification section (No. 54 Group) where they were analysed and each cadet was assigned to an aircrew trade based on his test results.
Cadets were informed of their categorisation during the last week of ACRC (I am assuming that this is when the "You are going to be a ....." pamphlets were handed out); they were then posted to the appropriate ITW, which by now were specialising in a specific aircrew category.
The information I have suggests that Navigators were posted to Bridgnorth (after 1st June 1944) but I don't know whether your dates were earlier.
Regards
Pete
As part of my project on air crew training, I was doing further research on the ACRC today and, as you say, by 1944 it had taken on the role of classification of aircrew.
This change resulted in the introduction of a further ACRC based at Scarborough.
The standard 3 week course (kitting out, medicals and introduction to service life) had been extended so that a series of aptitude tests could be undertaken. These included General Test (intelligence, education), mathematics, mechanical comprehension, instrument comprehension, observation, co-ordination and auditory morse code.
Results from these tests were sent to a central classification section (No. 54 Group) where they were analysed and each cadet was assigned to an aircrew trade based on his test results.
Cadets were informed of their categorisation during the last week of ACRC (I am assuming that this is when the "You are going to be a ....." pamphlets were handed out); they were then posted to the appropriate ITW, which by now were specialising in a specific aircrew category.
The information I have suggests that Navigators were posted to Bridgnorth (after 1st June 1944) but I don't know whether your dates were earlier.
Regards
Pete
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ACRC Intake
Ormeside
You may be interested to know that the intake at the ACRC on 23/11/1942 was 537 civilians and 195 serving airmen (Total 732), which was well below the weekly capacity of 1700. My information (which is taken from the ACRC Operations Record Book) shows that you were 1 of 43 cadets posted to 8 ITW on 16/01/1943.
Unfortunately, it does not show the number of vaccinations / inoculations that were given for your ACRC intake but some of the numbers I have are quite staggering. As an example, on 22/07/1941 1242 cadets were vaccinated and 1219 were inoculated. At some stage, I need to work out the difference between vaccination and inoculation and document what cadets were vaccinated against and what they were inoculated (against?) whilst at the ACRC.
Regards
Pete
You may be interested to know that the intake at the ACRC on 23/11/1942 was 537 civilians and 195 serving airmen (Total 732), which was well below the weekly capacity of 1700. My information (which is taken from the ACRC Operations Record Book) shows that you were 1 of 43 cadets posted to 8 ITW on 16/01/1943.
Unfortunately, it does not show the number of vaccinations / inoculations that were given for your ACRC intake but some of the numbers I have are quite staggering. As an example, on 22/07/1941 1242 cadets were vaccinated and 1219 were inoculated. At some stage, I need to work out the difference between vaccination and inoculation and document what cadets were vaccinated against and what they were inoculated (against?) whilst at the ACRC.
Regards
Pete
Last edited by Petet; 29th Sep 2015 at 15:45.
Re Lords Cricket Ground
Petet,
Interesting to know how the aptitude test results were dealt with.
i was at Scarborough ACRC and IIRC was there for 6weeks and as a prospective Nav/W was then posted to ITW at Bridgenorth.
Regards
John
Interesting to know how the aptitude test results were dealt with.
i was at Scarborough ACRC and IIRC was there for 6weeks and as a prospective Nav/W was then posted to ITW at Bridgenorth.
Regards
John
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Scarborough ACRC
John
I have done quite a lot of research on the Regents Park ACRC but not much on the Scarborough one.
Any information you can provide on HQ, training locations etc would be most helpful.
Regards
Pete
I have done quite a lot of research on the Regents Park ACRC but not much on the Scarborough one.
Any information you can provide on HQ, training locations etc would be most helpful.
Regards
Pete
Last edited by Petet; 29th Sep 2015 at 21:43.