Brian Burgess joined the RAF Police in 1967 and served in the United Kingdom, Germany and Singapore.
While stationed in Britain, he helped guard nuclear-armed Vulcan bombers maintained on quick reaction alert. These aircraft and their crews were expected to become airborne at very short notice if a Soviet attack was detected.
In his RAF Stories testimony, Brian recalls the strict security surrounding the aircraft and the dangers associated with the Blue Steel stand-off missile. Its propulsion system used high test peroxide—an extremely hazardous substance requiring careful handling.
His personal account reveals the responsibilities carried by the people working around Britain’s nuclear deterrent, including those who never flew aboard its aircraft.
