MEET the latest recruit for RAF Brize Norton’s 99 Squadron.
Pilot Officer Ted Little, immaculately dressed in standard uniform, has flown 70,000 miles across the world, spanning four continents and 12 military bases.
The teddy bear – launched on his global adventures after Carterton mayor Lynn Little came up with the concept – has visited British servicemen and servicewomen stationed abroad to raise money and awareness of miltary charity SSAFA (Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Airmen’s Families Association).
Mrs Little said: “He’s a really good Pilot Officer that would appeal to anyone to help such a good cause.
“It’s a bit of light relief for those posted abroad. It’s a unique way of telling everyone about what SSAFA does and he symbolises everything that’s good about the community in coming together to raise money.”
PO Little, donated by the town’s Giles Toy and Cycle Centre, set off from RAF Brize Norton on July 29.
On his travels, he visited bases in Ascension Island, top, and the Falklands in the South Atlantic, centre, South Africa, above, Akrotiri in Cyprus, Calgary, Minneapolis, California, Texas, Florida and South Carolina in the US, and Camp Bastion in Afghanistan.
During his journey he carried a sealed fundraising bucket and Carterton Town Council received letters of support from Prince William, Prince Harry, and David Cameron.
To round off this fundraising expedition, PO Little will jump with the RAF Falcons parachute display team at Alvescot Road recreation ground on Thursday for Mrs Little’s teddy bears’ picnic event.
After the stunt, he is line for a promotion to Flight Officer and will be taken on another top-secret trip with the squadron.
The teddy bears’ picnic starts at 3pm and the parachute jump is scheduled for 3.30pm Wing Commander Stu Lindsell, who took PO Little on his travels, said: “I have been delighted to welcome Little Ted as the newest member of 99 Squadron and to take him on his inaugural trip. He was with us to see what is was like flying around the world and he thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
“He is a pleasure to have on board.”
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