846 Naval Air Squadron will be returning to it’s spiritual home of RNAS Yeovilton over the coming months. This marks a defining moment for the Commando Helicopter Force in it’s transition to the Merlin helicopter and will see 846 NAS not only return to Somerset but also to a brand new building.
To mark the beginning of this homecoming, Merlin helicopters of 846 NAS will conduct a six ship formation flight from RAF Benson to RNAS Yeovilton on the 26 March 2015.
846 NAS return to RNAS Yeovilton with their new 6 Merlin Mk3. 26 March 2015. The six formation flight is a major step forward for the Commando Helicopter Force with its transition to the Merlin Mk3 helicopter, with 846 NAS return to Somerset and with its new building.
Lt Col Derek Stafford RM, Commanding Officer of 846 Naval Air Squadron, said: “I am deeply honoured and truly humbled to be not only the first Commanding Officer of the Squadron in the Merlin era, but also to have the privilege of leading the return of the Squadron to its spiritual home at RNAS Yeovilton”. He is certainly no stranger to life on the Commando Helicopter Force (CHF), of which 846 of course forms an integral part. He has served twice on each of 845 and 846 Squadrons, a single time on each of 847 and 848 Squadrons.
Also photos of Warrant Officer Steve Wood M.B.E. WO1 (AET) WOOD MBE , he was awarded an MBE in the Queens’ New Year Honors list and received it last week. This was to recognize his outstanding contribution to Merlin Transition. Congratulations.
Photos for use of NAS or Media, but please ask for the originals.
Leave a reply