Documents, D-Day and D’Audrieu – Capt Langdon reflects on Day One of the Tour de France
It nearly did not happen for me! Having done some of the flying last year, sharing a helicopter and copilot, I was determined to do this year’s tour as PIC for whole trip. There were some medical documentation issues. Although I had a valid LAPL, this was not valid in France. In the end, I had to go through the whole CAA medical examination process again. My AME submitted my documentation to the CAA, and then I had to wait. I was getting frustrated and concerned that I would not be able to fly. Actually, the CAA was very helpful, and a new Class medical certificate arrived in post. I was elated.
Flying with Holly was a joy. I call her Hawkeye, as she is always looking to see that I am in balance! The first day was great, starting with a Channel Crossing and refuelling at Le Touquet. After a quick lunch, back in the air to fly over the D-Day beaches, over Pegasus Bridge and the Merville Battery. Both played pivotal roles in the D-Day invasion. British Airbourne forces landed by Glider right next to Pegasus Bridge and captured it. The Parachute Regiment landed at Merville and destroyed the Artillery Battery which commanded a view over the D-Day beaches.
Arrived at Chateau D’Audrieu, Southwest of Caen for the first of many excellent dinners. Food and Malnutrition would not be a problem!
