Last of Cold War warriors retires

ONE of the Royal Navy's last “Cold War warriors” has retired after a remarkable career of 50 years with the Fleet Air Arm.

- WMN REPORTER

> 'Tiger Boss' Steve Murray, centre, with friends and family at his retirement; above left as commander of Merlin Helicopter and below, Steve back as a junior officer (right)

Steve Murray OBE served for 35 years in the Royal Navy, seven years in the reserves and eight years as a contractor as an expert in antisubmarine warfare (ASW). He has flown 35 types of aircraft, operated from at least eight aircraft carriers, seen active service in the Arabian Gulf, and commanded a helicopter flight, two squadrons and Merlin Helicopter Force.

Retiring from Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose in November, the 68-year-old former commander said: "I am one of the last Cold War ASW warriors and I've really enjoyed the tactical challenge and the opportunity to pass on my knowledge to the next generation. The old principles are still valid and effective today."

Mr Murray was joined by friends and family at a farewell event at the air station's Merlin Training Facility, where he was presented with a cake and gifts including a wall clock mounted inside a helicopter tail rotor drive shaft bracket.

Lieutenant Commander Kevin Murgatroyd said he would always remember Mr Murray as "Tiger Boss", his nickname as commanding officer of 814 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) The Flying Tigers.