| Flight Lieutenant Nigel Morton (43), Strathkinness, died with Flt Lt Kenneth Thompson (27) when their Tornado F3 went down during a training exercise near the village of Arrochar last Thursday.
The 43 (Fighter) Squadron weapon systems officer — known as Nige — was regarded as one of the most experienced navigators in the F3 force.
At the service in St Athernase Church, near RAF Leuchars, were his wife Romana, young son Rohan, other members of his family, friends and air force colleagues.
Mourners heard how Flt Lt Morton, who had served in Bosnia and Iraq, was hoping to become one of the few airmen to clock up 3000 hours flying time in the F3. However, he died just 71 hours short of achieving his goal.
He was described during the service as a “talented navigator” and “consummate professional”, who set and achieved the highest standards.
The Rev. Flt Lt Linda Flewker-Barker, who led the service, said, “Nige died doing what he loved.”
Last week’s tragedy stunned fellow members of 43 Squadron, which is to be disbanded on Monday. An inquiry has been launched into the accident, but it could be several months before the findings are known.
The funeral of pilot Flt Lt Thompson (27), who was from the Glasgow area, is understood to be next week. |
