RAF Cranwell News

For everyone, their graduation parade is truly memorable; at our most recent graduation it was even more special for Father and son - Stuart and George Whiteman

For everyone, their graduation parade is truly memorable; at our most recent graduation it was even more special for Father and son - Stuart and George Whiteman.

Flight Lieutenant Stuart Whiteman had served in the Royal Air Force for 33 years, completing his non-commissioned service as an Executive Warrant Officer in the role of Trade Advisor for the Logistics (Driver) Trade.  Stuart undertook the Commissioned Warrant Officers Course in October 2020. Sadly, the pandemic meant that Stuart didn’t attend a graduation parade, however, was invited to return at a later date – little did he know that he would be sharing the parade square with his son.

Flying Officer George Whiteman, aged 20 grew up as part of the wider RAF family, immersed in an aviation environment, and had dreamt of being a pilot in the RAF from a very young age.  George attended Gordon’s School in Woking where he joined the Combined Cadet Force (RAF) – this only strengthened his resolve to achieve his dream. 

Whilst undertaking his A levels; George applied to join the RAF in December 2018 and once he completed these had to wait for a place to open to join the RAF.  George commenced Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) Number 8 in June 2021. His determination has paid off as he will begin the next stage of his training as a Pilot following his graduation as a commissioned officer in the RAF.

Flight Lieutenant Whiteman said: 

“Having the opportunity to commission as an Officer in the RAF has expanded the opportunities available to me; standing next to George on the parade square will be incredible and although it was a twist of fate, I am an immensely proud father, and I am honoured to share this occasion with my son”.

Flying Officer Whiteman said:

“I have enjoyed every minute of the Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC); I have developed skills that I didn’t know I had, and my confidence has grown significantly.  The culmination of MIOTC 8 is the graduation parade; I can’t quite believe that I’ll be stood next to my Dad on the parade square; I am so proud of everything he has achieved in his career and I am incredibly excited about my future in the RAF”.

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