The 50th Annual Battle of Britain Memorial Flight

The Monarchist cannot let the weekend pass by without giving our loyal readers a head's up on Lincolnshire's Lancaster Association Day, which takes place on Sunday, September the 30th. It is significant because this year is the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (1957-2007), and this Sunday will be their last full formation flypast (one Lancaster, three Spitfires, two Hurricanes and one Dakota) for the year. The last time we witnessed such an overhead spectacle was at Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour. Be sure not to miss it!

A MESSAGE FROM HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN

There are few sights or sounds able to evoke more powerful thoughts and emotions than that of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flying overhead. To some it commemorates loved ones and relatives who fought and died in the air during the Second World War; to others it is an example of this nation’s resilience and indomitable spirit in the face of adversity; for yet others it represents a tangible link between the modern RAF and its illustrious forefathers, and it continues to inspire in many young people a desire to serve this country in the air.

The Memorial Flight has this year achieved a significant milestone, celebrating 50 years of commemorative service since its formation in 1957. In those 50 years, the Flight has displayed at or flown past thousands of venues in front of millions of people both at home and abroad. It remains a tremendous source of national pride; a testament to the professionalism of those who maintain these venerable aircraft and those who fly them. I offer the Flight my best wishes on its Golden Anniversary and my thanks go to all those who have previously served.

I would commend you all that when next you hear or see these aircraft, remember not only those who died serving this country in the air, but also spare a thought for those who continue to serve wherever they are required around the world.

ELIZABETH R.