Being 'The boss'

摘要

From the time the very first Tornado GR1 entered Royal Air Force frontline service in 1982, a succession of wing commanders has guided each and every Tornado squadron through a remarkable period of service. Commanding a fighter squadron surely ranks as the pinnacle of a career for many who have served in the military. "You've got to have credibility," says Air Commodore Ian 'Windy' Gale, as he reflects on his time as Officer Commanding No 31 'Goldstars' at RAF Marham from 2007 to late 2010. Gale recounts his time leading a Tornado GR4 unit with great pride and clarity. "Being a squadron boss is the best, but at the same time the hardest job you can have. You've got to be ready and able to lead the squadron to war, lead a four-ship of aircraft, drop weapons accurately and things like getting into the basket on the tanker first time, every time. It's not about hogging the limelight, but if you choose not to be at the front it has to be because you're taking your turn in the formation with everybody else. The reality is that you don't have time to concentrate on your studies and practice, so you must draw on your experience. You've got to be as good or better than everyone else in terms of the flying, but also able to fulfil the job of management, keeping everyone focused and motivated."