High Flight by John Gillespie Magee, Jr. Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth Of sun-split clouds, — and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of — wheeled and soared and swung High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there, I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air . . . Up, up the long, delirious burning blue I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark, or ever eagle flew — And, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod The high untrespassed sanctity of space, Put out my hand, and touched the face of God

The Royal Air Force Locking Apprentice Association Prayer Teach us good Lord, to be thankful For all the good times we had, The skills we have learned, The friendships we have shared And the companionships we have enjoyed. May all who have served the apprenticeship of the Wheel Be ever mindful of the needs of one another. Amen.

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed And very dear.