23/11/2024
It is with deep sadness that the Squadron has learned of the passing of one of its previous Squadron Commanders; Flt Lt David Mold RAF VR(T).
Flt Lt Mold took command of 2030 (Elmdon and Yardley) Squadron in 1973; he was a member of Solihull School’s CCF in the naval section and when he joined the ATC in the 1960s was believed to be the only CCF member in the Wing at that time. Flt Lt Mold undertook National Service from 1958 to 1960, serving in the RAF at HQ Fighter Command and then Coltishall.
In 1962 Flt Lt Mold joined 2030 (Elmdon and Yardley) Squadron as a civilian instructor, he commissioned on 7 March 1963 and was believed to be the youngest Pilot Officer in the Wing. He was subsequently promoted to Flight Lieutenant and took command in 1973.
During Flt Lt Mold’s time with 2030, the Squadron had a display aircraft, a Chipmunk, which stood in the compound for several years. The Cadets regularly painted the aircraft and on more than one occasion managed to start the engine by swinging the prop. The RAF reclaimed the aircraft for display at the Torbay Aircraft Museum, however, Flt Lt Mold sought a replacement aircraft. After negotiations with HQ Air Cadets he managed to secure a Hunter F4 which became the pride and joy of the Squadron until the RAF eventually reclaimed it and sold it to the Swiss Air Force.
He remained OC until 1975 when he handed over the command to Flt Lt Sparkes. After retiring as CO, Flt Lt Mold remained in the squadron as equipment officer and worked closely with the new CO, until they retired on the same day in 1977 when they both moved away from the Birmingham area.
The Squadron was in communication with David during lockdown and shared photographs and spoke of old times.
The squadron is deeply humbled to also learn that David has left a bequeathment of a substantial amount to ensure the legacy of 2030 continues. The Cadets present and future are deeply grateful for this generous gift.
Venture Adventure.
Photographs:
Flt Lt Mold as OC receiving a set of .22″ rifles that were donated to the Squadron
Arthur Cooke (Chairman of the Civilian Committee) attending the opening of the new Spooner HQ, Barrows Lane mid 1970s
Annual Camp – RAF Kinloss – Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing
Annual Camp - RAF Abingdon - 2030 Sqn Group Photo
Flt Lt Mold leading the remembrance parade
Flt Lt Mould (Left), Flt Lt Howard Luckett (Middle), Flt Lt Fred Baker (Right)
XF941 Hawker Hunter
DHC.1 Chipmunk T10 WB758 Torbay Aircraft Museum
Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Air Training Corps
