Celebrating 60 years of the Falcons: Fund supporters mark milestone with new display
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The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team are marking their 60th anniversary with the launch of a thrilling new routine ahead of this summer's display season.
Originally formed in 1961 by six instructors from the Parachute Training School formally based at RAF Abingdon, it is thought the team were nicknamed 'The Big 6' as most of the members were shorter than 5ft 6in. In fact, they gained this name after experimenting with tailgate exits out of the aircraft with all six members at once. Their experiments didn't stop there, as they used talcum powder to leave white trails before using smoke canisters, which are still used in today's displays.
The Big 6 made their debut display at Farnborough Air show in 1961 and over the years became so popular that in 1965 the team increased in size to 12 parachutists. It was also in 1965 that the team were named RAF Falcons, taking the name from the bird of prey which represented their displays; swift, swooping, elegant and aerobatic in flight.
Flight Lieutenant Chris Wilce, Officer Commanding RAF Falcons, said: "I am extremely excited to be able to showcase our new 60th anniversary display format for 2021. The famous canopy stack formation we have been performing since the 1970s will continue to be displayed by us, but we now also have the 60th anniversary display that can be performed in addition to or instead of the canopy stack this season."
Team coach Flight Sergeant James Bruce said: "For the 2021 season we decided to change the display format in recognition of our 60th anniversary and to demonstrate the ever-changing skill sets required for military parachuting. This dynamic routine showcases what can be accomplished when we work as a team and trust that each member will pilot their canopy with the precision the RAF Falcons are famous for.
"We can't wait to get out there and thrill the crowds this summer. We're also excited to be raising awareness of the RAF Benevolent Fund, a charity so close to our hearts. All of us on the team are acutely aware of how much the Fund does for serving personnel, not just here at RAF Brize Norton, but across the world. To be able to give something back in this special year means a lot to us all."