Healing in his Wings: Memoirs of a Flight Medical Officer

The book "A Different World and a Different Air Force" by Air Commodore McCoubrey describes his experiences in the RAF during the Cold War, the Vietnam Boat People, the Falklands War, the Gulf War, and the structural and sociological changes in the RAF over thirty years.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2019
Publisher: Book Guild Publishing Ltd

When Air Commodore McCoubrey joined the Royal Air Force (RAF), the world was still grappling with the aftermath of World War II, with veterans of the war still serving in the military. However, as time passed, the Cold War emerged as a new global conflict, and the RAF underwent significant changes. By the time McCoubrey left the service, the Cold War had come to an end, and defense cuts were becoming a prevalent reality. The world had transformed dramatically, and the Air Force had evolved into a very different entity.

The book delves into McCoubrey's experiences during his tours of duty in various locations. He served in Germany during the Cold War, witnessing the tensions and challenges of the era. In Hong Kong, he was stationed at the time of the Vietnamese Boat People, providing assistance and support to those fleeing persecution. After the Falklands War, McCoubrey was posted to Ascension Island, where he witnessed the aftermath of the conflict and the recovery efforts. He also served in the United States during the first Gulf War, participating in combat operations and experiencing the complexities of military deployment.

Throughout his career, McCoubrey undertook a wide range of duties and responsibilities. He participated in Search and Rescue operations, aeromedical evacuation, winter and sea survival schools, accident investigation, international liaison, and various airborne escapades. He commanded RAF stations and Command Headquarters, as well as the Ministry of Defence. The book provides vivid accounts of these experiences, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of serving in the RAF during a period of significant change.

One of the notable aspects of McCoubrey's career is his experience of commanding and then having to close an RAF station. This was a challenging task that required careful planning and execution. McCoubrey had to navigate the complex structural and sociological changes within the RAF over the course of thirty years. He witnessed the retirement of older personnel, the introduction of new technology, and the shift in the role of the Air Force in global security.

The book also sheds light on the structural and sociological changes that the RAF underwent over the thirty years. The retirement of older personnel led to a younger and more diverse workforce, with women and minorities increasingly joining the service. The introduction of new technology, such as the Harrier Jump Jet and the Tornado fighter, transformed the nature of warfare and the capabilities of the Air Force. The shift in the role of the Air Force in global security also brought about changes in the training and deployment of personnel.

In conclusion, "A Different World and a Different Air Force" is a captivating book that provides a detailed account of Air Commodore McCoubrey's experiences in the Royal Air Force. It offers a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of serving in the Air Force during a period of significant change, from the Cold War to the end of the Cold War and the aftermath of the Gulf War. The book sheds light on the structural and sociological changes that the RAF underwent over the thirty years, and it provides a valuable insight into the role of the Air Force in global security. Whether you are a military enthusiast or simply interested in history, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 198g
Dimension: 215 x 140 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912881017