Talk by ​Air Marshal G A 'black' Robertson

Thursday 9th November

Starting at 6;30pm

OWEN HARDY TALK
Owen Hardy – the Last New Zealand Ace, with Air Marshal ‘Black’ Robertson CBE BA FRAeS FRSA RAF (Retd)
Air Marshal Black Robertson pays a welcome return for a talk about Wg Cdr Owen Hardy DFC* AFC, the subject of his latest book: From Spitfires to Vampires and Beyond. Hardy was probably the last New Zealand ace to tell his story. A teenager when he joined his first Spitfire squadron in 1942, flying and war in the air came easily to him – not so civilian life in post-war New Zealand. After a brief hiatus, he rejoined the RAF for the second phase of a remarkable career. It eventually took him from the excitement of jet fighters and display flying to the drudgery of staff work. In his talk, Black shines a light not just on what it was like to fly in combat, but also on the changing face of a latter-day RAF that arguably undervalued some of its heroes. It’s an enthralling and revealing tale.
Air Marshal Black Robertson CBE BA FRAeS FRSA RAF (Retd)
‘Black’ Robertson joined the RAF in 1963, instantly acquiring the nickname that’s remained with him ever since. After 3 years at the RAF College, Cranwell, he spent the next 33 in flying, staff and command appointments, including tours of duty in the Middle East, USA, Germany and the Falkands. He flew all the RAF’s front line fast jet aircraft and also qualified as a helicopter pilot. After retiring he spent some 5 years with BAE Systems before establishing his own consultancy. A past Clerk to The Honourable Company of Gloucestershire, trustee of the David Vaisey Library Awards and  Cranfield Trust mentor, his time is now devoted mainly to writing and lecturing: www.blackrobertson.com. 
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