RAF Wittering News

RAF Wittering personnel marked the Battle of Britain in Stamford on Sunday 15th September 2024.

Royal Air Force personnel marched from Star Lane to the War Memorial outside the Browne’s Hospital in Broad Street, where an Open-Air Service of Remembrance to commemorate the Battle of Britain was led by RAF Wittering Padre, the Reverend Squadron Leader Andrew Tucker.

Public figures and officers including the Mayor of Stamford Cllr Kelham Cooke, joined RAF Wittering Station Executive Officer Squadron Leader Michael Masters, and Station Warrant Officer Darren Rose, for the occasion.

The Battle of Britain was a defining moment for the Royal Air Force; safeguarding our skies during the Second World War, a role which continues to this day. Sunday marked the 84th anniversary of Battle of Britain Day. On 15th September 1940 the Luftwaffe launched a massive assault in the skies over Britain. It was a day of heavy fighting, and the Luftwaffe suffered significant casualties. It was a decisive defeat for the Luftwaffe, and since then this date has been commemorated as ‘Battle of Britain Day’ – a dramatic turning point in both the battle itself, and the history of the Second World War.

On Sunday wreaths were laid at the War Memorial by representatives from RAF Wittering and Stamford. The parade was accompanied by Stamford Brass. The occasion was also marked with a flypast by the Lancaster from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Sqn Ldr 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.”