Morayvia has proudly unveiled the fully restored Westland Whirlwind HAR.10 XJ723, marking the completion of a remarkable seven-year restoration project undertaken entirely by dedicated volunteers.
The unveiling ceremony, held yesterday (30 July) at Morayvia in Kinloss, was attended by around 80 invited guests, including representatives from the Royal Air Force, 39 Engineer Regiment, veterans’ organisations, civic leaders, supporters of Morayvia and members of the families connected with the historic rescue.
The restoration commemorates the bravery and professionalism of the crew of Whirlwind XJ723 during the Sea Gem disaster on 27 December 1965. Responding in appalling weather conditions in the North Sea, the crew demonstrated exceptional courage during one of the Royal Air Force Search and Rescue Service’s most significant peacetime rescue operations.
Pride and memories
The ceremony was made especially poignant by the attendance of Stephen and Jamie Reeson, sons of Sergeant John Reeson GM, the aircraft’s winchman during the Sea Gem rescue. Their presence served as a powerful reminder that behind every historic event are families whose pride and memories continue through the generations.
Speaking on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant of Moray, Margaret Stenton DL praised Morayvia’s volunteers for their outstanding commitment to preserving Moray’s aviation heritage.
She said: “The Lieutenancy has enjoyed a long and valued relationship with Morayvia, and it has been a privilege to watch this remarkable organisation grow over the years. The dedication of its volunteers is truly inspiring. Through their hard work they have not only restored an aircraft but have preserved an important chapter of our nation’s history, ensuring that the courage and selfless service of the crew of Whirlwind XJ723 will continue to inspire future generations.”
The names of the crew, now permanently displayed on the aircraft, are:
- Sergeant Lee Smith QCVSA – Pilot
- Flight Lieutenant Jack Hill AFC – Navigator
- Sergeant John Reeson GM – Winchman
Courage, commitment and selfless service
Mark Mair MBE, Chairman of Morayvia, said: “Whirlwind XJ723 represents far more than an aircraft. It symbolises the courage, commitment and selfless service of RAF Search and Rescue crews who risked everything to save the lives of others. This restoration has always been about ensuring that those remarkable men, and the sacrifices they made, are never forgotten.
“We are particularly honoured to welcome Stephen and Jamie Reeson to Morayvia. Having the family of Sergeant John Reeson GM with us makes this occasion even more meaningful and reminds us that these stories are not just history—they are personal legacies that deserve to be remembered.”
Moray has one of the richest aviation heritages in the United Kingdom. From the proud legacy of RAF Kinloss, now home to 39 Engineer Regiment, to RAF Lossiemouth, one of the Royal Air Force’s busiest operational stations, the region has played a vital role in defending the nation and supporting Search and Rescue operations around the British coastline.
Permanent tribute
Morayvia continues to preserve and celebrate that heritage through its growing collection of historic aircraft, interactive exhibitions and educational programmes. The restoration of Whirlwind XJ723 stands as a permanent tribute not only to the crew involved in the Sea Gem rescue, but also to every Royal Air Force Search and Rescue crew who answered the call to save lives, often in the most dangerous conditions imaginable.
The ceremony reached its climax as the Royal Air Force Ensign was lowered to reveal the names of the crew of Whirlwind XJ723. It was a moving tribute to three remarkable airmen whose courage and professionalism during the Sea Gem rescue on 27 December 1965 saved lives and left a legacy that continues to inspire today. The unveiling was met with warm applause from the invited guests, bringing to a close an evening of remembrance, reflection and gratitude for those who served with such distinction.