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The Association's History
The very first
ideas for an association originated in Sydney in 1945 and 1946, among the Fleet
Air Arm Pilots and Observers who had fought from the carriers of the British
Pacific Fleet. They used to meet at the Imperial Services Club and the notion
was that, once back home, the strong bonds of comradeship which already existed
ought to be continued, not simply to provide a basis for reunions but also, most
importantly, to stand up for and to do battle for the continuing cause of naval
aviation. No Fleet Air Arm
Association, as such, was formed in the immediate post-war years although, when
the new RNVR Air Squadrons were established in 1947 they provided
rallying-points, but when they were disbanded in 1957 the impetus was given for
the formation of a proper organisation fulfilling the original
ideas. In February 1947
the first Committee Meeting of what was initially called The RNVR Air
Association took place at the Naval and Military Club. Among the Resolutions it was established
that the subscription would be five shillings (25p) per annum and there should
be an annual dance at Londonderry House in To begin with
there were about 150 members essentially from the disbanded RNVR units and this
rose to about 200. The next important
step was a change of name which would involve serving officers more
closely. Accordingly, after due
representation, a letter was received in April, 1958, from the Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty approving the present name and promising an Air
Station Weekly Order to publicise it. So, with Admiralty
blessing, many serving RN Officers joined, as well as an appreciable number who
had recently retired under the 'Golden Bowler' scheme, and also many who had
served during the 1939-45 war. Thus, the young Association expanded and
prospered. As it continued, social
functions apart, official Ministry of Defence (Navy) recognition was given to
the role it played in helping to bring about the existence of the Invincible
class aircraft carriers and to its input towards the many other debates relating
to aviation at sea.
Thus the
Association now includes members from WWII, as well as from the years thereafter
over the period when very significant fleet aviation development for both fixed
and rotary wing aircraft took place and, most importantly, from the active Fleet
Air Arm of today. The Association
also offers associate membership to those whose family served and to those who
have made a significant contribution to the Fleet Air Arm. The Association
endeavours to help to ensure naval aviation matters are not overlooked by a
public which can sometime forget the debt owed to its Armed Forces whilst
encouraging the young and air minded through a variety of charitable
initiatives. The Fleet Air Arm
Officers’ Association is thus a vibrant organisation with a steadily growing
membership which greatly welcomes applications from those who meet the criteria
for joining.
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