by Alan Smith

ajsmith@thekmgroup.co.uk

They all flew in warplanes for their country. Some saw action against Hitler’s Germany, others in later wars.

Some experienced the intense pressure of the Cold War.

Now members of the Mid-Kent branch of the Aircrew Association are having to bail out.

The national association has announced its closure saying that the declining numbers and failing health of its members leaves it no option.

The association is only for servicemen who flew as air crew in one of the three services for Britain, the Commonwealth or its Second World War Allies.

In the Mid Kent branch, there are still 28 members on the books but with the national association disbanded, the local flyboys are now also just seeing out their last year.

Branch chairman Michael Cook admitted that the years were taking their toll.

He said: “At 78, I’m almost the youngest member. Most are well into their late 80s or even 90s.

“Unfortunately, we are all suffering from wear and tear and as the years pass, more and more of us are falling off the edge.”

The branch was established in 1981 – 30 years ago this year – and at its peak had around 70 members.

They meet formally once a month, and many get together for a lunchtime social but this year’s Christmas party will be their last.

Flt Lt Cook, of Wateringbury Road, East Malling, saw service with Bomber Command, flying as a navigator in Canberra and Victor bombers between 1951 and 1971.

He was posted to the Far East for much of the time.

He said: “It’s sad that we must close. We shall miss the cameraderie. There are other ex-service organisations that we could join, but there is a unique bond between airmen.”

The veteran flyers have had a close relationship with the 2374 Ditton ATC Squadron of young cadets.

They sponsor an annual cup for the Most Advanced Cadet and one of their members, Group Captain Patrick Tootal, is CO of the 2374 Squadron.

Flt Lt Cook said: “It’s been a pleasure to see the cadets, and they’ve paid us back – increasingly we’ve come to rely on them to carry our standard in our service parades, as we can’t manage them any more.”