Under a green and white parachute canopy, surrounded by camo netting with three Puma Mk2 helicopters front and centre, over 550 people gathered to celebrate their connection to the Helicopter on Friday 4 July 2025.
On Friday 4th July, RAF Benson welcomed the largest ever gathering of the RAF Puma family. The evening commenced with a flypast from the Red Arrows, enroute to Henley Regatta followed by 2 Benson-based Chinook helicopters. The Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment serenaded the guests during a three-course meal and danced the night away to local band ‘RELOAD’ and our resident DJ Royer.
The evening was coordinated by the staff of 33 Sqn who have worked tirelessly to ensure “Percy Puma” had one final hurrah. Meticulous detail has been taken throughout the planning, down to the detail on the menus which imitated ‘Flight Reference Cards’. In the centre of the Hangar a table was set for Absent Friends and as a further dedication; in keeping with RAF tradition a Piano was burnt in honour of their memory.
The Puma served for 54 years within the RAF and contributed to many Operations throughout it’s time. The friendship found within this family will not be forgotten with many fond memories amongst the crew, engineers and support staff, the experiences of which will continue to shape the RAF.
Thoughts from WO1 Sharp:
With arrival drinks and flypast complete, we entered the impressively decorated hangar which was guarded by 4 Puma airframes. Throughout the meal memories of exploits from the 54 years were exchanged and heartfelt anecdotes from Puma Operations followed. The original ‘Alley Cat’ provided refreshment, while delicious food was served by many volunteers from across the Station; who I wish to thank on-behalf of all those attending as guests. As it grew dark, we shared a moment of reflection, a baby grand piano burned in memory of all those who were lost but are still remembered with love. An amazing event which truly honoured the great Puma and all who flew in and maintained them throughout their incredible service career. A standing ovation to all who organised a wonderful evening, you did the old girl proud.
