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Apollo 15 Astronaut Says the Air Tattoo is "Unbelievable"

Published: 18 Jul 2018

Apollo 15 astronaut, Al Worden visited the Royal International Air Tattoo for the first time to celebrate RAF 100.

Over Friday and Saturday his busy schedule took him all over the Showground, engaging with young people in the Techno Zone and taking in everything the Tattoo has to offer.

He said: "I've got to tell you, this is unbelievable - I think this is probably the most complete airshow I've ever been to.

"We've seen pilots and airplanes from around the world; RIAT is a very special place. I hope they keep doing this because I want to come back. I should come and volunteer!"

In the run up to the show Al visited local schools and had the chance to speak with young children about his past and the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subjects.

"It's going to take these kids growing up and getting all of the education they can get to build the kind of things that are able to take us where we need to go.

"That's why I'm so supportive of STEM - because that's where it starts, with these young people."

Reflecting on his first Air Tattoo, Al couldn't wait to come back again next year.

He said: "I've enjoyed my chance to talk to young people and I've enjoyed going to the schools in the local area, but the real highlight for me is watching the aircraft fly".