JOHN FREDERICK HIGGS

Brief Obituary

Sqn Ldr John Higgs ( Johnykins as Hazel affectionately called him) Gentleman. 1933 - 2013

John, apart from being an Officer in the Royal Air Force and lets be honest here, not all men of rank are in fact gentlemen, was a gentleman in all senses of the word.

He did not use his position in the RAF to lord it over those who had achieved less in life. To him all were equal. In fact it was quite some time before I actually became aware that he had retired as a Sqn Ldr.

He rose through the ranks with ability and he was fortunate enough to work under those who recognised that ability. Some say” right place right time”. For those not familiar with the military ranking structure, An Airman starts as an AC2 or Aircraftsman 2nd class recruit through to Warrant Officer, the highest non commission rank although at this rank the holder is in receipt of the Royal Warrant. Officer ranks start from Pilot Officer. John attaining the Rank of Squadron Leader had eleven promotions up to his retirement. To put this into some context of his ability I have known a 15 year man not get beyond SAC (Senior Aircraftsman) which is only four rungs up the promotions ladder.

We met John & Barbara 15 years ago at the 2nd. re-union week-end of the FVA (Fontainebleau Veterans Association). An Association Started by and for those of us fortunate enough to have served with NATO at the Headquarters Allied Air Forces Central Europe, a prime posting carved out of the Forest near Fontainebleau within walking distance of the town and Chateau, about 35 miles south of Paris. We quickly became friendly and enjoyed each others company. Hazel and I were among the first to be told by John of his illness. A sad and bitter blow. John, in our company, at least, remained positive and cheerful.

With Keith & Pam Adams Hazel and I visited John and Barbara in January where we found him in good spirits. He thoroughly enjoyed our visit as did we and pleased that we were able to see him just a few weeks before he passed away.

He will be remembered for his quick laugh, his ability to laugh at himself and his good nature. He was quick to thank those who did anything for him or Barbara no matter how insignificant the gesture.

John is a loss not only to his lovely Wife Barbara and his children but also his friends and fellow members of the Fontainebleau Veterans Association, he will be sadly missed.

Terry Bryant