“Who would think that the act of pulling down a blind could prolong ones’ life by 53 years, and counting? This simple action was taken at the end of a training sortie in a Javelin Mk 5 on 9th March 1960, when the aircraft suffered complete electrical failure above cloud.

I eventually descended through a hole but, once in contact with the ground and being almost out of fuel, was unable to find a suitable place to land. Your marvellous seats gave my R.O (Sgt Bob Lydall) and me the only chance of survival. Needless to say they worked to perfection. Thank you Martin-Baker for your fantastic contribution to Aircrew Safety. My wife, family and friends endorse this praise wholeheartedly. Gratefully, Mike Gill”