FLIGHT LIEUTENANT A J FORD RAF VR(T)

Flight Lieutenant Ford first joined 1429 Squadron in 1997 when her eldest daughter started as a cadet. Her first role on the squadron was as a member of the civilian committee where she held the office of honorary secretary for a period of 3 years.

In May 2000 she was appointed as a civilian instructor on the squadron and after serving a probationary period she was persuaded to apply for a commission.

Following successful Wing and Regional boards her commission as a Pilot Officer was promulgated in March 2001. She was appointed as squadron adjutant and carried out the training of First Class cadets as well as helping with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.

Promoted to Flying Officer in 2003, she became 2 I/C the squadron and remained in the position until July 1st 2007 when she was appointed Officer Commanding and promoted to Flight Lieutenant.

She takes over the reigns from her husband Flight Lieutenant Chris Ford who has been appointed to Wing Staff.

Flight Lieutenant Mandy Ford said, “It is a great honour to take over such a successful squadron . The squadron has gone from strength to strength under Chris’ command and I hope that we can continue to build on that success in the future. I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead of us.”