Sergeant John Joseph Langton killed in Afghanistan
It is with deep regret that the MOD must confirm the death of Sergeant John Joseph Langton RAF, who was killed following the crash of a RAF Nimrod MR2 aircraft in Afghanistan on Saturday 2 September 2006.
Sgt John Joseph Langton (All rights reserved.)
Sergeant John Langton, Weapons Systems Operator
Sergeant John Langton, 29, from Liverpool was a highly professional member of the Royal Air Force who had an illustrious career as a RAF Regiment Gunner before joining No. 120 Squadron early in 2005.
He approached his role as a Front Line Aviator with the same passion, enthusiasm and skill as he approached his efforts on the football field.
“Langy” had an enthusiastic passion for fast cars and motorbikes and was extremely proud of his Yamaha R1.
An effervescent character who lived life to the full, his dream was to become a Pilot in the Royal Air Force. He was a friend to all who knew him and will be sorely missed on and off the field.
A terrible loss to all, but particularly to his long time partner Kate, his parents Margaret and Joe, his brother Steve and sister Christine.
Shortly after the incident RAF Kinloss Station Commander Group Captain Chris Birks said:
I am very deeply saddened about the deaths of twelve air crew from Royal Air Force Kinloss in a Nimrod accident over Afghanistan. All twelve were from Number 120 Squadron based here at Kinloss. All were long serving and experienced air crew and were known to me personally.
As well as first class personnel these were colleagues and friends of myself and my other personnel. The station is in mourning. The main priority now is to provide support for the families of those lost, their friends and colleagues. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.
Officer Commanding 120 Squadron, based at RAF Kinloss, Wing Commander Martin Cannard added:
120 Squadron has suffered a profound loss. We have lost good friends and colleagues, many known personally to us over many years. I have been humbled by the commitment and determination of all of my people to do all that they can for those that have lost loved ones and friends and this will be our sole focus in the coming days.