Phil commenced his talk by reminding us of the origins of the RAF. He then showed us a 1914 Kings Shillings, an original 1922 Haig Poppy a Scroll and Plaque to an RAF Officer in charge of aerial photography and a very rare Scroll and Plaque to a woman of the WRAF. The latter had died in 1919 of influenza.

He then went on to talk in greater detail about Naval Aviation and illustrated his points with examples of badges, cap tally’s, epaulettes, buttons and uniforms . He also was able to show us an example of an experimental dart produced by Brooks (the firework makers) which would have included an incendiary device to set light to airships. This device would have been dropped from above. This device was trailed but never adopted.

He finished of by reminding us that many RNAS personnel only received a British War Medal; not the Victory Medal. He was also able to show us several medal groups that included VLSGC and Temperance Medals.

In the 1930’s the RNAS became the Fleet Air Arm and one of their main planes was the Swordfish. He was able to show us a leather flying helmet and a Gosport Tube for in-flight communication. It worked as a speaker tube rather than an electric system.

The Fleet Air Arm has now become of great interest to Phil. He aims to gather a complete Telegrapher Air Gunner (TAG) uniform and he showed us what he had already managed to collect. It included shirt, jacket, neck flap, bell bottom trousers, neck tie, lanyard, cap tally and insignia.

Altogether, his talk was of great interest and those present were very appreciative of hearing from a person who clearly loved his subject and was able to pass that on to his audience.

Our guest speaker for February 25th 2010 is former Wing Commander Derek Martin OBE. Mr Martin served as a pilot with Coastal Command between 1939 and 1953. On retiring from flying duties, he became an Electrical Engineer serving a total of 34 years. In March 1941. a severe crash landing left him with severe facial injuries which led him to a meeting with pioneering surgeon Archibald McIndoe and became one of the founder members of the "Guinea Pig Club".

I am sure this is going to be a very informative and interesting talk so can all members make the effort of attending the meeting. Any non members are also welcome.