Dig to find the remains of a Spitfire that spanned 30 years

In a remarkable effort to preserve aviation history, Flight Lieutenant Hobbs of 19 Squadron joined forces with renowned historian Mr. Dilip Sarkar on a dig to uncover the remains of a Spitfire from 19 Squadron.

"What was found was brilliant, so far as I was concerned, and I found it inspirational that a group of people are so interested in 19 Squadron's history to do this," Flight Lt. Hobbs said.

The aircraft in question, a Spitfire with the serial number P9546, once piloted by the young Canadian Sergeant George Davis, met its tragic fate during a training exercise on the 8th of April 1942 near Dymock.

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The site was initially explored back in 1993 by Mr. Sarkar and Mr. Long, where they recovered several small fragments, which were then thoughtfully conserved and presented to Wing Command George Unwin DSO DFM.

Now, three decades later, the site has been revisited, yielding the discovery of additional fragments, including small pieces of the supercharger casing.

These newfound fragments hold significant sentimental value for the current members of 19 Squadron.

They will be thoughtfully presented during the squadron's 108th-anniversary dinner, acting as a poignant link connecting the past and present of the prestigious unit.

19 Squadron's history spans back to its formation on the 1st of September 1915, and it has played vital roles during the First World War, Second World War, and the Cold War.

The squadron's illustrious service culminated at RAF Valley, where it operated the Hawk T1 before being disbanded in 2011.

Now recognized as one of the last surviving Battle of Britain squadrons, 19 Squadron stands tall as a symbol of the UK's Air Surveillance and Control capability.

Responsible for monitoring, detecting, and identifying all aircraft within and around UK airspace, the squadron also supports Quick Reaction Alert Aircraft by rapidly deploying fighters to intercept unknown or potentially threatening aircraft.

Such endeavours serve as a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of aviation enthusiasts, historians, and members of the military, who work together to ensure that the sacrifices and contributions of those who came before are not forgotten.