Long-serving RAF Boulmer squadron leader given charity presentation after almost 40 years service

RAF Boulmer Squadron Leader Dan Jones has been presented with a quilt as thanks for his service over nearly four decades.

Published 28th Sep 2020, 16:45 BST

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Quilts of Valour UK make quilts for military personnel who have been injured on deployment or whilst training, those with PTSD and those on long-term sickness.

Dan joined the RAF in 1982 and has served all over the world, including Germany both during and after the Cold War.

Memorable deployments include six years working in the recruiting and selection organisation, helping to shape the future for RAF personnel.

Wing Commander Rob Allan, Officer Commanding Support Wing at RAF Boulmer, right, presented the quilt to Squadron Leader Dan Jones.

Wing Commander Rob Allan, Officer Commanding Support Wing at RAF Boulmer, right, presented the quilt to Squadron Leader Dan Jones.

Operational tours included a spell as assistant to the Defence Attaché in Macedonia during the Kosovo crisis, and a detachment to Italy.

His hard work and commitment resulted in him receiving commendations at 2* and 3* level for exceptional work during his 38 years’ dedicated service.

Wing Commander Rob Allan, Officer Commanding Support Wing at RAF Boulmer, presented the quilt to Dan at his home in Lesbury.

Dan said: “The RAF has looked after me and my family very well, from giving me the opportunity to improve myself through education and training, to supporting me through my various illnesses these last 16 years, even promoting me a few times and commissioning me for good measure.”

He added: “I will miss the people, the banter, the collective drive to always do your best and the sense of being part of the RAF family, that is what makes us who we are. If I could do it all again, I would in a (slightly irregular!) heartbeat.”

Dan is now looking forward to spending more quality time with his wife Gill following his retirement in December.

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