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Fleet Air Arm => Shore Bases => Topic started by: HarryReed on 30 April 2020 10:03:38 am

Title: Mystery photo - FAA Air Mechanics at shore base
Post by: HarryReed on 30 April 2020 10:03:38 am
I would be grateful if anyone can help to identify this group of FAA ratings, including where and when this photo was taken. The only insignia that I can see are the trade patches of two of the gents, who are wearing the trade patch for Air Mechanic (unclassified), as shown in the two close-ups below.  Given that none of the men are Leading Ratings or above, and that the two trade patches are still 'unclassified' - so not yet qualified in a specialisation, e.g. 'A' Airframes, 'E' Engines, 'L' Electrical or 'O' Ordnance - I assume that the group was taken during specialisation training.  I do not think it was taken during basic training, as this was carried out for Air Mechanics/Fitters at HMS Gosling and course photos are usually only 30-34 men, and with different buildings in the background.  As I understand it, the unclassified version of the Air mechanic patch was only in use during 1943-1948.

Any insights appreciated!

(https://i.imgur.com/ABZN08j.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/FFk0ylP.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/Mew3tmi.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9tFgGJi.jpg)
Title: Re: Mystery photo - FAA Air Mechanics at shore base
Post by: PhiloNauticus on 30 April 2020 03:53:04 pm

It's a Telegraphist/Air Gunner course in Canada

This same photograph can be found here:

http://wartimeheritage.com/whatag/whatag.htm

if you click ‘course photo’s’ and scroll down to Course 61A (April 1944) you will find it with everyone named




Title: Re: Mystery photo - FAA Air Mechanics at shore base
Post by: HarryReed on 01 May 2020 03:01:49 pm
Perfect - thank you very much indeed!