RAF Wittering crews remember 'The Few' during Battle of Britain parade
The sacrifices made during the Battle of Britain more than 80 years ago were remembered as personnel from RAF Wittering marched through Stamford.
Royal Air Force from the base 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 The Rector, Father Aran Beesley. They were joined by veterans, members of the Stamford Branch of the Royal British Legion, cadets from 2071 (Stamford) Squadron Air Cadets and Stamford Endowed Schools’ Cadets. The parade was accompanied by Stamford Brass.
Public figures and officers including the Mayor of Stamford, Cllr Jane Kingman, joined RAF Wittering Station Commander Joan Ochuodho, and Station Warrant Officer Gareth Kane, for the occasion.
The term ‘The Few’ comes from Winston Churchill's phrase "Never, in the field of human conflict, was so much owed by so many to so few," as he described the efforts of the pilots who fought in the Battle Of Britain in 1940.
Wg Cdr Ochuodho said: “The Battle of Britain remains a defining moment in the history of the Royal Air Force, and it is a privilege to honour the courage and sacrifice of the Few. As we mark this significant occasion, RAF Wittering is sincerely grateful for the continued support of the people of Stamford. Their recognition of the RAF’s service, both past and present, reflects the enduring connection between the Royal Air Force and the communities we are proud to serve.”
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. On September 15 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. Stamford Poet Laureate Michelle Liebst also read a poem written for the occasion.