USAF/RAF / 28 Squadron / Puma HC.2 / Jolly Green Giant

This unique patch represents a notable occurrence, as it was made for a USAF exchange pilot flying with 28 Squadron as an instructor.

28 Squadron

USAF exchange pilot

RAF Benson

Full Colour

2022

This is a first, as this is a Royal Air Force exchange pilot Jolly Green Giant patch. This was made for a USAF pilot Capt. Dave Shealey who was one of two exchange pilots who were IP's at 28 Squadron, the other being a USMC CH-53 pilot Capt. Campbell. The Facebook link from RAF Benson can be found here. Capt. Shealey was an instructor pilot flying the Puma HC.2 with the RAF & had previously flew the Pavehawk with the 41st & 56th RQS. Capt. Campbell was an instructor with 28 Squadron flying the twin rotor Chinook.

Capt. Shealey seen here when flying a HH-60G with the 41st RQS. (National Archives)

Whatsoever you may do, do.

In front of a demi-Pegasus, a fasces, approved by HM King Edward VII in October 1936. The demi-Pegasus represents the white horse near Yatesbury - the Squadrons first operational base - while the fasces commemorates service during Italy during the first World War.

Gurkha Flash of 48 Gurkha Infantry Brigade.

The Kukri Flash commemorates 28 Squadron's former forty year association with the Gurkas which ended in 1994.

The Brigade asked the Squadron to wear the Flash to remember its connection with the Gurkhas who have served with the British Army.

Gurkhas are known as some of the fiercest warriors ever to take up arms. These soldiers from Nepal regularly receive high valour awards from both Britain and India because of their bravery, and they are skilled, in one case defeating Taliban ambushes while outnumbered over 30 to 1.

Former Indian Army Chief of Staff Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw once stated that: "If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or he is a Gurkha."

28 (R) Squadron are one of three Puma Squadrons that operate with the RAF, the other two being 33 & 230 Squadrons. 28 Squadron are an Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) flying Chinook HC.4's & Puma HC.2's. They provide training for newly qualified crews & conversion courses  for qualified crews transitioning to the Chinook & Puma.

Pumas replaced the Merlins that were transferred to the Royal Navy.

If you have any additional information about this patch or anything to add, for example, photos or stories, please contact me at

usafjollygreen@gmail.com 

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