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 Rank: Pro Groups: Joined: 24/08/2009 Posts: 48,827 Points: -13,348
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A specially painted Tucano Fast Jet Training aircraft has been unveiled at RAF Linton-on-Ouse to celebrate the 100th anniversary of 72 Squadron, Royal Air Force.
The aircraft has been painted in the colours of a World War II Spitfire as operated by 72 Squadron during the Battle of Britain defending the country from invasion in 1940. Its registration reads RN-S ‘Enniskillen’ in recognition of the original World War II Spitfire. The name Enniskillen was written on the side of Spitfire RN-S to indicate that funds to build it were raised by The Belfast Telegraph newspaper. The aircraft also has the names of two former members of 72 Squadron displayed at the side of the cockpit; Squadron Leader Des Sheen DFC and Leading Aircraftman Jim Barton.
Squadron Leader Sheen served with 72 Squadron during the Battle of Britain and was later to command the Squadron flying Vampire Jet Fighters. Leading Aircraftman Barton was an engine fitter. Although the two men never served with each other during their time in the RAF their stories were connected by their respective service on 72 Squadron. Jim Barton founded the 72 Squadron Association and Des Sheen became the Association’s first president, hence their names now share the same aircraft.
The commemorative Tucano aircraft will be taking part in Airshows around the country during the summer where it will visit as a static display aircraft.
72 Sqdn is currently based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse which has about 250 military staff on site and provides initial fast jet training for RAF and Royal Navy pilots, who then complete their training at RAF Valley in Anglesey and is where Prince William underwent advanced flight training.
72 Sqdn had an unusual mascot in 1957 - "Flying Officer Aligator"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkjVulhIpN0
72 Sqdn history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._72_Squadron_RAF
Tomick attached the following image(s):
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