Decorated World War 2 veteran, Flt Lt Russell "Rusty" Reay Waughman, AFC, DFC, Legion D'Honneur and Royal Aero Club of The United Kingdom Chairman, David Monks had their FAI World Record attempt ratified earlier this year for speed over a recognised course. Their flight was to Hasselt and back to the scene of a mid air collision whilst Rusty was on active duty under Battle Order 510 flying a Lancaster in May 1944,  almost 74 years to the day of the original mission. The collision was at 12,000 feet over enemy territory and with an extensively damaged Lancaster, Rusty flew on to the target before turning back to the UK and landing the aircraft without injury to his crew. Rusty received a coveted mention in dispatches, a "Green Endorsement" in his log book and only narrowly missed being awarded a medal for his bravery in returning the aircraft and crew. Rusty and David flew to RAF Coningsby, the home of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight where the Officer Commanding, Squadron Leader Andy "Milli" Millikin presented them with their certificates.

Pictured left to right: Squadron Leader Andy "Milli" Millikin, Rusty Waughman and David Monks pictured in front of the BBMF Avro Lancaster at RAF Coningsby.

(Photography courtesy of the Royal Air Force, SAC Mayfield)