Logbook – RAF Service including 5BFTS April to September 1945
Altogether, Norman had six Logbooks spanning his flying career. This first Logbook covers his time flying with the RAF, most of which was spent training to be a pilot at 5BFTS in Clewiston, Florida. All RAF cadets destined for 5BFTS received a Logbook as they arrived in Canada which was provided by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Page 1 in the Logbook details 12 hours of flying undertaken at the Elementary Flying Training School (4EFTS) at RAF Brough. These entries were not made contemporaneously but were added by Norman after he arrived in North America and received his Logbook. At RAF Brough, Norman flew a DH82a, better known as a Tiger Moth. This type was fitted with a Gypsy Major engine. After WW2, he continued to fly Tiger Moths with the Cambridge Flying Group.
Total hours flown at 5BFTS - 142 hours and 45 minutes. The time he spent at 5BFTS and the planes he flew there (PT-17D and AT-6D) are listed on the page showing his Record of Service and Aircraft Flown.
5BFTS Pilot’s Record Book
This was completed and kept by the instructor and charts the cadet’s daily and weekly progress. It was probably given to Norman as his training at 5BFTS was incomplete so that any future instructors could see what he had already achieved.
