42nd Boy Entrants 1961

[Old Ned]

Hard to believe, but 57 years ago today, several hundred 15 and 16 year old boys, including me, arrived at RAF St Athan (4 Sof TT) to join the Royal Air Force. On 24 Jan we were attested and signed on. I found my Attestation form yesterday! Stayed in the Service until the bitter end and then became an RO at Cranwell. Spent a few years with the unforgettable Vulcan. Loved it!


A bit of a different RAF today, a fraction of the size, not too many overseas places to go, but I don't regret it for a minute. Nearly 60 years later and I'm still in uniform (not the original one, but still getting a bit tight). Vice-Chairman of our Sqn Assoc. Our Annual Reunion Weekend in Jun still brings in wartime vets; wonderful old men with a lust for life and a hoard of memories of the 1940s.


Having climbed a bit up the greasy pole, I can now see the RAF for what it really is. Too bad we lack support in Parliament, but that is a personal view. Per Ardua Ad Astra.


BW to any 42nd brats on this thread.

[chevvron]

My brother was 44th ARM entry BE at Cosford in late '61 or early '62 I think.

[ian16th]

Originally Posted by chevvron

My brother was 44th ARM entry BE at Cosford in late '61 or early '62 I think.

44th would have started in Sept 61.

The intakes were Jan, May and Sept, to take advantage of the school leaving times.

[chevvron]

Originally Posted by ian16th

44th would have started in Sept 61.

The intakes were Jan, May and Sept, to take advantage of the school leaving times.

Thanks, I thought it might be about then but wasn't sure.
He was 1945550.

[Old Ned]

That would be 44th entry.

[oldpax]

Signed on June 10th 1958 at Cosford,moved to St Athan in August 58. 34th entry air elect!!Still have my permanent pass from St Athan and a few other bits and pieces from those days!