Astronaut Tim Peake Celebrates Graduation Of Latest Helicopter Aircrew

Astronaut and former Army helicopter pilot, Colonel Tim Peake has helped to mark the achievements of the latest helicopter aircrew to join the front line.

Twenty-three tri-service personnel graduated from Number 1 Flying Training School (No.1 FTS) on Friday at RAF Shawbury, where Colonel Peake had previously graduated as a Qualified Helicopter Instructor.

On Friday, he was the parade's Reviewing Officer, watching on as 17 pilots, four aircrewman and four weapon system operators marked the completion of their training.

Colonel Peake was recently appointed Honorary Colonel of 9 Regiment Army Air Corps (9AAC) – the Battlefield Helicopter Wing in No.1 FTS.

It delivers advanced techniques and tactical training.

It was Colonel Peake's first visit to RAF Shawbury since his appointment.

Speaking after presenting the graduates with their flying badges and certificates, he said: "What a wonderful honour to present the wings today; it took me back to my own wings parade and I know how much this day means to them.

"I am very proud of what they have achieved, and they should be rightly proud as well. This is the culmination of a huge amount of effort and something they have been working towards for many years. I am excited for them all; they have great careers ahead of them and a really exciting journey."

The Commanding Officer of 9AAC, Lieutenant Colonel Stewart Pearce said: "It was an honour to welcome our Honorary Colonel to 9AAC for the first time. With his background in both space and aviation, he will be an excellent ambassador and an inspiration to the trainee aircrew starting out in their careers."

Cover image: Astronaut and former Army helicopter pilot Colonel Tim Peak (Picture: RAF).