Over the Rainbow

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Squadron Leader Ron Raymond describes the twilight years of heavy-piston engine bomber flying (Lincoln 30 and 31s/WW2 Lancaster Mark 4s) at a time of long-range navigation by deduced (dead) reckoning, air plots and sextant sights. While navigation called for skills unique to the role of No 10 Squadron’s heavy bomber operations, the physical aircraft handling was conducted in accordance with rudimentary concepts – certainly in the event of an engine failure. The story initially deals with preparation of an RAAF pilot qualifying in a bomber role and continues on to describe duty as a flight instructor before ferrying aircraft from Canada for tactical air operations in Viet Nam and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Vietnamese operations were under control of the USAF and involved general support of forces ‘in the field’ by day and flare support for outposts under attack at night. Ron was awarded Mention in Despatches and a US Air Medal in Viet Nam, and a Queen’s Commendation in PNG. He returned to an air staff appointment before his final role as the Chief Flying Instructor at the RAAF Basic Flying Training School.