I was born in France in 1965 and had a keen interest in aeronautics and military aviation from a very early age. I remember attending an open day at the Tours base in 1975, when they were still flying the Lockheed T-33s.

Following the completion of my studies, I embarked on a 36-year career in the French Army (Armée de terre), initially in maintenance and subsequently in air defence. I served as a Roland platoon leader and a Mistral battery commander, and then in multinational headquarters. I was primarily involved in operations in Africa and the Balkans and tried to take photos whenever I had the opportunity.

I live in Lille in northern France with my wife, Palmira. Our three adult children live in Paris and Toulouse. I am delighted to be joining CHECKSIX, where I will be contributing to a reference magazine while expanding my knowledge of military aviation.

Jean François AURAN