Paul joined the Royal Air Force in 1993, originally in the logistics branch. His first posting was to 16(R) Sqn Jaguar OCU at RAF Lossiemouth then Tactical Supply Wing at RAF Stafford, where he undertook numerous deployments in support of Op BANNER and NATO duties in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia. 

 

In 1999 he successfully re-mustered to non-commissioned aircrew and after flying training was posted to 27 Sqn RAF Odiham. He completed deployments to the Falkland Islands, Norway and supported operations under Op TELIC. Returning for a second tour on 27 Sqn, Paul undertook a six-month loan to the Royal Netherlands Air Force, deploying to Afghanistan in support of Dutch Special Forces. Paul soon was back in Afghanistan, this time in support of British Forces operating in Helmand province deploying a multitude of times supporting MERT. A major deliberate operation into the Upper Sangin valley saw Paul encountering nine callouts in a seven-hour period.  

 

In 2010 Paul qualified as a Helicopter Crewman Instructor and began instructional duties on 18(B)Sqn. Later, he undertook instructional duties at the Airman Command School and held the post of Station Warrant Officer at RAF Odiham. He was awarded a Chief of the Air Staff’s Commendation in 2009 for exceptional service.  

 

Paul left the Service in Nov 2022 and now works as a Project Manager for a global IT company.