Flight Lieutenant Allan Squires, pilot and captain

Flt Lt Al, 39, from Clatterbridge, was a universally loved and respected member of the Kinloss family. He was an exceptional pilot, aircraft captain and flying instructor whose experience and professionalism has touched a whole generation of Air Force pilots. Always willing to work hard, he loved his flying, along with the camaraderie and team spirit which he found as part of a Nimrod crew and the Royal Air Force.

Although outwardly quiet, Al had a real thirst for life. In sport, he was a gifted runner who trained hard and raced hard. However, Al's greatest passion was his family. He was a devoted husband to Adele and a doting father to Abigail and Graeme. He will be truly missed.

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."