HMS Gannet SAR Flight Decommissioning Parade

Today, HMS Gannet held their Decommissioning Parade. They ceased flying on 1 Jan with the introduction of the HM Coastguard S-92s across the airfield.

Many walkers, climbers, outdoors enthusiasts and indeed members of the general public owe their wellbeing to the crews of the venerable red & grey Sea Kings.



My best wishes to all air-crew, ground-crew, and other support personnel who made this an excellent SAR unit, one of the busiest in the UK and with one of the most challenging areas to cover - everything from the Atlantic to Lochaber, and much of the Highlands and Islands.

 

Spent nearly two and a half enjoyable years at Prestwick in the mid-90's in what was only meant to be a 6 month draft. Only time I worked closely with the FAA, other than with FF/DD ship's flights, and was quite surprised how laid back & relaxed, yet totally professional, they were.
Happy days...

 

Gannet was the best two drafts I had in the Mob - 1991-2 & 1994-96. Got to see Scotland from the air and got paid for it too!

 

My best 2 drafts 2! Gannet, 819, then Gannet for last draft.