Recorded interview with Air Vice Marshal Maria Byford, 19 October 2021

Maria Byford served as an RAF dentist in various roles, including involvement in aeromedical evacuation, deployments to Oman and Afghanistan, the Covid pandemic and leadership positions in RAF Medical Services.

Maria Byford explains the importance of RAF dentistry, particularly when deployed, the contrast between civilian and service dentistry and dentistry in the wider RAF welfare system. She remembers service in No.1 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, including a 2002 deployment to Oman, and a 2014 deployment to Afghanistan. She describes the shutting down of Camp Bastion hospital, her experience of the Covid pandemic and her current role as chief of staff (personnel).