SQNLDR Nick Cree—A Real Star in the Sky
SQNLDR Nick Cree
On the morning of 14 January 2010, Squadron Leader Nick Cree died tragically when his CT-4E Airtrainer crashed near Ohakea Air Force Base. The 32-year-old pilot was conducting a solo manoeuvre as part of a Red Checkers air display practice.
Being a member of the Red Checkers was the pinnacle of an outstanding career for SQNLDR Cree, who joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force in 1996. Shortly afterwards he attended the Australian Defence Force Academy, completing a Bachelor of Technology (Aeronautical) Degree. There were operations to the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste; the latter included a stint as detachment Commander with No 3 Squadron. There was also an exchange with the Royal Singapore Air Force.
Following the incident, Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott paid tribute to SQNLDR Cree, saying, “He was a highly skilled member of the Air Force team, becoming an ‘A’ category instructor at the Central Flying School and a member of the Red Checkers display team. Our thoughts are with his wife and son, and other members of his family who now face the loss of a loved one.”
SQNLDR Cree was a well-liked and respected pilot, a loving son, brother, husband and father. Described by his family as an amazing person who gave 100 percent to everything he did; his wife recalled how Nick would always call when he was away overseas so they could speak daily.
Not only was SQNLDR Cree simply a great guy to know—as described by his colleagues during his funeral service at Air Force Base Ohakea—but the wider public who met him also spoke highly of the young pilot.
Among the many messages of condolence was one that described how SQNLDR Cree would come over with his fellow Red Checkers team mates and crew to have coffee, lunch and a chat with Air Show organisers’. “He was such a joy to talk to about life in general, and to learn what makes such a talented pilot.”
SQNLDR Cree will be very much missed by the RNZAF and wider Defence Force.