Although the RCAF began forming Sabre squadrons in 1951, it was some time before team aerobatic flying with the new fighter began. There was simply no time for it, as build-up of the squadrons had top priority. Besides most of the pilots were young and inexperienced. But as squadrons began settling down to routines, there was time to think about the fancy stuff, especially as the public was so keen to see the Sabre perform. It was by far the biggest air show attraction among the new fighters.
At North Luffenham, No. 1 Wing formed an annual demonstration team which toured the UK and Continent. Pilots in 1954 were F/Os HR "Dick" Wingate (leader), AM "Mac" Gillies (No. 2), EN "Norm" Ronaasen (No. 3) and GJ "Jeb" Kerr (box). Other pilots would learn the fundamentals of precision flying while at North Luffenham, flying with the semi-official wing team.
|
Updated: June 20, 2003