Skip to Main Content
Back to all news

News articles

Skip to content

One of the longest serving RAF personnel retires after 45 years service

17 Dec 2022

One of the longest serving personnel in the Royal Air Force is retiring after 45 years of service.

Black and white image shows RAF aviator learning on rescue helicopter.
Neil on exchange with the Luftwaffe, with a Wessex helicopter in 1985.

After 45 years of service, Squadron Leader Neil Hawthorn retires from the RAF.  He joined as an aircraft propulsion fitter in the engineering trade in 1977, worked his way up to the rank of Chief Technician before commissioning as an engineering officer.

Black and white image shows two helicopters flying over village in Kuwait.
Invasion of Kuwait.

Currently working at Central Training School, (CTS) based at RAF Halton, Neil is responsible for running the team that continuously develops the roles of ground engineering and cyber professions, to ensure that the training provided remains up to date with new functions, equipment and technology.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my career in the RAF and the opportunities that it has offered me, although there have been challenging times," explains Neil who has served abroad for much of his career including in Kuwait when Iraq invaded in 1991, for which he received the Gulf War Campaign Medal with a rare clasp to acknowledge his unique role in the conflict.

Image shows RAF Aviators shaking hands.
Neil receiving his Long Service Good Conduct 3rd Clasp.

Currently working at Central Training School, (CTS) based at RAF Halton, Neil is responsible for running the team that continuously develops the roles of ground engineering and cyber professions, to ensure that the training provided remains up to date with new functions, equipment and technology.

Black and white image shows Image shows RAF Aviators during inspection.
Neil as a Corporal in 1982, during a Air Officer Commander's Inspection with the Gnome Engine Bay, at Akrotiri.

In total Neil, accompanied by his wife Sheila, has served on five overseas tours, including Akrotiri, Cyprus, Germany and Pax River in USA.

Archived image shows RAF Aviator hugging wife on parade ground by mess.
Neil in 1996 with his wife, Shelia, at Graduation.

There he was the UK lead for the 4-Nation Harrier Joint Programme between 2010 and 2012. During this time, he undertook the role of programme manager coordinating the transfer of the entire fleet to the US Marine Corps. A task for which he received the Chief of Defence Material’s Team Commendation.

Archived image shows RAF Aviators sitting on the ground eating from their metal food tins.

He has also served in Saudi Arabia for seven and a half years as the RAF Engineering Liaison Officer in HQ Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF), reporting directly to a RSAF Brigadier.

Archived image shows Image shows RAF Aviators parading through street.
Neil as a Sergeant in 1987, escorting the Queen’s Colour while at Halton.

A phenomenal career, it is rare to see such lengthy and distinguished service. I have thoroughly enjoyed Neil’s company and wise counsel.

Wing Commander Poole
Officer in Command of Requirements Analysis Wing

Archived image shows RAF Aviator standing cross armed next to a grounded aircraft.
Neil as a a Flight Lieutenant in 2003, on exchange with the Luftwaffe.