RAF Wittering celebrates Jamaican history

Published: 16:00, 24 June 2022

Serving personnel and veterans met at Wittering for a cultural event celebrating Jamaican history in the RAF.

Guests included Jamaican-born Albert Jarrett, 98, an RAF driver and weapons instructor during Second World War.

He joined the RAF in 1942, crossing the Atlantic despite the risk from U-boats and battleships.

Mr Donald Campbell gives an address with the standard of No 139 Jamaica Squadron. Photo: Cpl Chantelle Gregg

Albert has huge his enthusiasm for the RAF, saying he spent much of the war "on the range with new recruits"

"I was very small, and they couldn’t understand why I was so good at using the rifle, so they kept me behind to teach the recruits."

He added that his RAF memories were "wonderful" and that he was very pleased to attend the Wittering event on Wednesday last week (June 22).

98-year-old RAF Veteran Mr Albert Jarrett, a driver and weapons instructor during World War Two. Photo: Cpl Chantelle Gregg

Guests from all three services enjoyed lunch and a presentation. A Coldstream Guards bandsman played a steel drum and a lunch of mutton curry with rice and peas was prepared by chefs from RAF Wittering’s catering flight.

Mr Donald Campbell presents a picture of the Caribbean poppy to Wing Commander Jez Case. Photo: Cpl Chantelle Gregg

Station commander Wg Cdr Jez Case thanked everyone and said it had been "a privilege to welcome our guests and listen to their experiences and insights".

Armed Forces Human Interest Chloe Butler