While recognising the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions; accordingly only a brief change of command ceremony was held on 2 December, 2020 in order to express a fond farewell to Group Captain Chris Moon as he relinquished his command of RAF Valley and VAS President. Accordingly, a warm welcome was then extended to the incoming Station Commander, Group Captain Andy Turk, DFC.
On the previous day, Group Captain Moon was to fly his last sortie by leading three No IV Squadron Hawk T Mk 2s, which included two trips through the MAC Loop, with Group Captain Turk following in the third jet.
VAS therefore wishes our incoming Honorary President the very best of luck during his future tenure at such a difficult time. Hopefully, by the spring of 2021, COVID-19 will have been defeated and the station can continue with its flying training, without these current obstacles.
Next year, will also see the station celebrating its 80th Anniversary, together with No 4 Flying Training School recognising its Centennial. Exciting times ahead!
Photo 1 - The Station Commander (left) prepares for his last flight, together with the incoming Station Commander (right). (Cpl Simon Armstrong, VLY Photo Section).
Photo 2 - Group Captain Moon goes through the MAC Loop. (Dennis Owen)
Photo 3- Group Captain Turk follows. (Dennis Owen)
Photo 4 - VAS Vice-chair presents a parting gift. (Jim Le Cras)
Photo 5 - A final farewell and a warm welcome. (Jim Le Cras)
Photo 6 – RAF Valley Station Commander and VAS President, Group Captain Andy Turk, DFC. (Cpl Simon Armstrong, VLY Photo Section).