Geoffrey Wellum discusses his nail-biting experience flying into battle in Malta - with no bullets. The story begins at Biggin Hill station, where Geoffrey began the deadly RAF training; during this time, Geoffrey would take his 'first spin' in a Harvard training plane (an American design first requested by Britain's RAF in 1938 during WWII). In the interview, Geoffrey shares his experiences of the rigorous and often life threatening training exercises: "Three people died during training but you can never think it'll be you ... if you let your imagination run away with you, you may as well pack it in." Upon arrival in Malta, Geoffrey was shocked to see the bullets being removed from his plane in preparation for take off. The reason for this was to reduce the weight and therefore the fuel consumption of the Spitfire, to hopefully give the RAF an edge against the infamous Luftwaffe. However, before even taking flight, Geoffrey found his worst enemy to be the desperately humid climate of Malta,  after suffering through severe headaches and problems with his sight, it was deduced that Geoffrey had an issue with his sinus and was promptly rushed to hospital to have a hole drilled into his head to relieve the pressure while flying. Finally, during the battle itself, the fear of invasion felt incredibly real, so Geoffrey fought hard to defend his country from the Luftwaffe forces. Needless 'point scoring' and 'shots landed' were of little importance to Geoffrey as he focussed on protecting both his country and his fellow pilots - the thought of defeat never once entered his mind. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in 1941 in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy.

Called up for National Service, Ron Andrews was delighted to join the Royal Air Force and trained as an Instrument Fitter. His first postings took him to RAF Honington and then RAF Oakington, where he worked on Avro York aircraft. He had completed his service and was ready to leave when the Russians blockaded Berlin and Operation Plainfare began. With little warning, Ron was retained and sent to Germany — scraping together kit and equipment on the way.

In his interview, Ron describes the vital role of ground crews in the Berlin Airlift: inspecting and maintaining the aircraft that kept the city supplied. He recalls one flight that could have ended in disaster, and how he filled his downtime fruit picking to the delight of local families.

Although he knew his work was essential, Ron speaks frankly about the personal cost of having his demob stopped. His memories reveal the dedication, frustration and unexpected human connections that kept the Airlift flying.

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Geoffrey Abbott recounts his illustrious career, from the factory to the frontlines. Having left school at sixteen, Geoffrey took up work making engines in a factory, but soon swapped this for servicing spitfires for the RAF.   After training as an engine fitter, Geoffrey quickly found himself posted across the globe, supporting wartime efforts in the Middle East and Africa. Geoffrey recalls his journeys across the sea, his aircraft expertise, and the hardships he faced away from home.  His interview illuminates the non-combatant wartime experience, highlighting the role of machinery mastery as indispensable. An often forgotten perspective, Geoffrey provides insight on the uncertainty of the supporting cast and the contentious condition of having to work amidst conflict. Geoffrey’s story is one of resolve and bravery, underpinned by his desire to help and a genuine passion for planes.  .