RAF High Wycombe News

The Power of the pen!

Over eighty years may separate them, but for one ex-RAF Corporal and a group of schoolchildren, age really is no barrier to lasting friendships.

A chance glance at an article in the RAF News about a nursery changing to become RAFA Kidz prompted eighty-seven-year-old Brian Hanks from Lincolnshire to write to his granddaughter (who works at the Medmenham branch of RAFA Kidz). The letter was read out to the enthralled children at the nursery. Little did anyone know that a pen pal relationship between Brian, who has ten grandchildren of his own and the school children would quickly develop.

Brian sharing photos of days gone by and answering questions

The children wrote a letter back to Brian asking him about his time in the RAF, whether he flew aircraft, his hobbies and any favourite colours,” said Amanda Brown, Manager of RAFA Kidz. “His letters are displayed on our wall with his responses.”

During his time in the RAF, Brian worked as a Ground Radar Fitter. He later worked in Germany on a flight station and oversaw the installation of missiles on UK aircraft. There was quite a revelation for his granddaughters when they found out that, unbeknown to them their grandfather had also worked as an engineer on the iconic Concord!

Brian with fellow serviceman at RAF Hednesford
(Brian is 2nd left, back row)

In an age of email, texting and Skype, the children favour an age-old form of communication; “They requested that Brian post them a letter back as they love going to the post box to send their replies,” said Amanda. The school is hoping to send letters to their veteran pen pal every couple of months.

In July Brian was invited down to Medmenham to meet the excited children in person. Due to deafness the children wrote down their questions for him to answer. Showing sepia pictures of himself in uniform to his little fans together with the hat that he wore encouraged the children to dress up in RAF, navy and army uniforms from their dressing-up box.

Standing by his Wall of Letters!

Brian was exceptionally good with the children. He loved that people wanted to talk to him about his air force days. He really interacted with everyone and would ask questions back. Although they sat crossed legged in a circle, they all got closer as his stories became more animated,” said a delighted Amanda.

Before departing the jovial ex-Corporal was given a thank you card made by the children together with some chocolates. So keen were the little five-year-olds for him to stay that they clung to his leg as he left!

Many thanks, Brian for taking the time and trouble to educate our youngsters on times gone by.

Connect with RAF High Wycombe