Battle of Britain
A parade and open-air service were held in Stamford to mark the 84th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.
On Sunday 15th September, which is the date commemorated as Battle of Britain Day, a mayoral procession left from the Town Hall before a parade of personnel from RAF Wittering, 2071 (Stamford) Squadron Air Cadets, members of the Royal British Legion, and Stamford Brass.
The Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, opened the event and a service was led by RAF Wittering Padre, the Reverend Squadron Leader Andrew Tucker, on the balcony at Browne’s Hospital on Broad Street. Stamford’s poet laureate Caroline Avnit read a poem written specially for the occasion.
A two-minute silence was held, and wreaths were laid at the War Memorial. There was also a fly past by the RAF Lancaster Bomber from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
The Battle of Britain was the first major battle fought entirely in the air, which took place between July and October 1940.
Mayor of Stamford, Councillor Kelham Cooke, said: “It is an honour to play a part in this important commemoration and pay tribute to the determination and sacrifice of those who fought in battle. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the close ties the town of Stamford shares with Royal Air Force Wittering, and we’re proud to have established such a close friendship with the station.”
RAF Wittering Station Executive Officer Squadron Leader Michael Masters said: “The Battle of Britain was a significant event in the history of the Royal Air Force, and it is a great honour to be able to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Few. Today is an important occasion and RAF Wittering is immensely grateful of the support that we receive from Stamford residents who recognise the bravery and loyalty of the Royal Air Force then and now.”
