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Pilot shares last Royal Navy flight with his son
10 December 2024
It was a special moment for one highly experienced helicopter pilot, who is retiring from the Royal Navy after 36 years, when he shared his final flight with his son.
RNAS Culdrose says farewell in the new year to Lieutenant Commander Stuart Millen, who has clocked more than 6,600 flying hours on 23 different aircraft types, marks and roles.
In a poignant touch, he took his last flight with his son Lieutenant Jack Millen, who gained his wings with Merlin Helicopter Force earlier this year.
Commodore David Childs then presented Lt Cdr Millen with a valedictory certificate from the First Sea Lord.
Lt Cdr Millen has served much of his time at RNAS Culdrose, most recently working on simulator training at the Merlin Training Facility.
He joined the Royal Navy straight from school in 1988 and earned his wings in 1990 at 705 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Culdrose. In 1996, he switched from anti-submarine warfare to airborne surveillance and control (ASaC), flying the Mk2 & 7 Sea King helicopters across Europe, the Middle East and Afghanistan.
He qualified as an instructor in 1998, spent three assignments with Naval Flying Standards, and served with 849 and 854 Naval Air Squadrons. Converting to Merlin in 2016, he was also part of the team which introduced ASaC into Merlin Helicopter Force.
“I’ve just been humbled so many times by the comments people have made and the efforts they’ve gone to say 'thank you',” he said.
“I was delighted to share my last flight with my son. When we landed and I spoke to air traffic control for the last time, that was emotional.
"I will remember all the hours and the people I've served with, and I’ll have a very happy retirement. Of course, I’ll stay in touch with the Fleet Air Arm through Jack.”