I saw reference today that George Martin (the Beatles Producer) who has just died was an Officer in FAA for ‘National Service’ it appears that is wrong he served during WW2 and after (1943 to 1947) as Observer (the BBC says Pilot) but other sources say just Observer with rank of sub-lieutenant
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Martin
“In 1943, when he was seventeen, he joined the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy and became an aerial observer and a commissioned officer. The war ended before Martin was involved in any combat, and he left the service in 1947.”
By: Wokka Bob - 10th March 2016 at 19:14
Saving the Swordfish
In 2001, George Martin wrote a piece of music to raise funds to save the last two Swordfish aircraft.
Audio Interview on Classic FM, halfway down the page.
http://www.classicfm.com/music-news/george-martin-dies/#G5A2byZSwUCcR7tR.97
By: Derbyhaven - 10th March 2016 at 19:09
He was stationed at RNAS Ronaldsway at some time and was a member of the station choir.
By: Rosevidney1 - 10th March 2016 at 18:47
In my service days I was told more than once that I was just a ‘bloody driver’ (but one who was authorised to fly and had signed for the aircraft!)
By: Graham Boak - 10th March 2016 at 15:20
He must have had a secret wry smile there. In the UK Armed Services, the pilot is in command of the aircraft. I dare say that there have been exceptions…
By: RPSmith - 10th March 2016 at 13:22
late last night BBC (2 I think) ran the programme “Arena” made in 2011 covering his life. In it he himself said he was an observer – GM standing outside of the observer’s cockpit on an RNHF Swordfish pointing out things (including the cable on the floor to secure himself and prevent being thrown out during violent manoeuvres) and discussing with whoever was interviewing him that the observer was in command of the aircraft.
GM said that the attack on Taranto was a leading factor in wanting to fly with the FAA.
A good programme with a little pre war and war time film – although showing some old(?) poor quality film twice of Shuttleworth’s Gladiator going into a loop annoyed me slightly.
Roger Smith.
By: CeBro - 10th March 2016 at 11:56
He is not only known for the Beatles you know. He also produced the album Quartet.:eagerness:
Cees
Sign In
March 10, 2016 at 11:38 am