To say that my family and I are delighted to be back at Shawbury and in our ‘happy place’ is an understatement! The Shawbury magic has (very unexpectedly) worked and I now return for my 4th tour, having previously been an instructor on the old Defence Helicopter Flying School, OC Central Flying School (Helicopter) Sqn, OC Operations Wing in the early days of the Military Flying Training System, and now hugely privileged to be Commandant of both No. 1 Flying Training School (1 FTS) and the Defence College of Air and Space Operations (DCASO). Whilst I have seen a huge amount of change at Shawbury over the years, what doesn’t change is the passion and commitment of everyone who works on or with the Station.

I'm eagerly looking forward to our Friends and Families Day on July 30, which promises a western theme this year. Witt Goes West is shaping up to be a fantastic day with plenty of activities planned for everyone. These events strengthen the bonds not just between colleagues but also with the families who support us day in and day out. I hope to see you all there, taking a well-deserved break to enjoy the celebration together.

Time has flown; it feels like just a moment ago that I took command of the Station, and two and half years later I find myself preparing to hand over the reins. Serving as your Station Commander has been a true honour and privilege, making it the most enjoyable, rewarding, and at times challenging experience for both my family and I. It is a tour that we will cherish dearly, reminiscing about it for years to come. Wing Commander Mark Hinde will officially assume command on Monday 14th July, but you will have the opportunity to meet him around the Station before that date as he familiarises himself with the surroundings and meets the various sections as part of the handover process.