AN AIRMAN came home from Iraq on a flying visit but still found time to propose to his girlfriend!
Corporal Chris Roberts, 34, from Hoole, is normally based with 84 Squadron (search and rescue) at RAF Valley on Anglesey but is currently on general duties in Iraq.
Last week the former Kingsway High School pupil came back for just four days' leave and spent most of it with his now fiancée Kate Buxton, who lives at Beau-maris on Anglesey.
He managed to see parents Stan and Joan of Fieldway, but only for about 10 minutes. They will be on edge until he returns home for good, but when that will be they can't be sure.
'His main comment was that it was very hot,' said his father Stan, 79, who said the temperature rose to 50 degrees Centigrade at times - about 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mr Roberts, well known as a founder member of the Wall City Jazz Band, added: 'The sooner he and the other British lads are out of there the better.
His mum, 67, said: 'He was just his usual happy-go-lucky self. He didn't really speak about it and we didn't really ask.'
Mrs and Mrs Roberts are both uneasy about Britain going to war but do not want to say too much. 'We don't feel this was one of our wars, so to speak,' said Mrs Roberts.
They both watch the news at all times of the day and night as they hope and pray that British servicemen and women keep out of trouble.
In spite of any misgivings, the couple are immensely proud of their son, an engineer, whose regular job is to look after the engines in fighter jets and helicopters but is also an accomplished sportsman.
Chris, who joined the air service aged 16 on a YTS scheme, has represented the RAF and combined services in football, hockey, tennis and badminton. He was an RAF tennis singles champion.
Chris is following in a long family tradition of involvement with the RAF.
