Warrant Officer Christopher Blythe was given a traditional RAF send off by personnel at Royal Air Force Brize Norton.
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After his farewell interview with Officer Commanding 1 Air Mobility Wing, Wing Commander Jane Lewis, Warrant Officer Blythe was issued with his bowler hat and umbrella to signify his retirement from the Royal Air Force.
In his 36 years of service, he has deployed in support of Operations HERRICK and TORAL in Afghanistan, Operation TELIC in Iraq, Operation NEWCOMBE in Africa, NATO Peacekeeping in Former Yugoslavia, Operation KIPION in the Middle East, Operation SHADER in the Eastern Mediterranean and Operation RESCRIPT in support of the Covid Pandemic. His career has involved numerous tours at RAF Lyneham, Brize Norton and Akrotiri and he has received accolades throughout his career including the United States of America Army Commendation Medal and most recently awarded his Meritorious Service Medal.
Royal Air Force Brize Norton personnel greeted him outside the Air Terminal to wave him on his way and honour his dedicated service, being driven in a tool of the movements trade, a Charlatte towing tractor complete with balloons, before being taken on his final tour of the Station. His route from the Air Terminal was lined with colleagues and friends applauding as he went past and he was met at the Station gate to be marched off base by the Station Executive Officer, Wing Commander Jim Davies.
Good luck on your retirement Mr Blythe, after 36 years of service we think you deserve to put your feet up.
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