/reeve.gif)
The RAF's No. 19(R) Squadron at RAF Valley on Anglesey has stood down.
Thursday November 24, 2011 brought the disappearance of yet another squadron from the RAF’s order of battle as 19(R) Squadron at RAF Valley on Anglesey stood down.
This was not just any other squadron, but one of the service’s most famous fighter squadrons boasting a proud record in both world wars; 19 Squadron’s (The Dolphins) place in history was assured when it became the first to be equipped with the iconic Supermarine Spitfire at RAF Duxford near Cambridge on August 4, 1938.
Until November 24 it was a Reserve squadron with the BAE Systems Hawk, training fast jet pilots destined for the Typhoon and Tornado.
It had recently received the latest T2 version of the Hawk, and has trained the first instructor cadre to begin formal student training from 2012.
With the RAF’s ever diminishing frontline, which could see it reduced to just half a dozen fast jet squadrons by 2015, it is most unlikely that the Dolphin badge will adorn an RAF aircraft again.
The existing personnel and aircraft will remain at RAF Valley, but merely undergo a change of identity, being re-numbered as 4(R) Squadron, the unit that was formerly part of the Harrier Force prior to its disbandment under the Strategic Defence and Security Review last December.
This is a subscription only section
Want to read more? It's only €10/year.
No account yet? Just Create an account first and head to the shop