Veterans fly to Falklands to remember courage and sacrifice of those lost in 1982 conflict

A Royal Air Force Voyager aircraft has departed RAF Brize Norton on a commemorative flight to the Falklands, to mark the conflict's 40th anniversary. 

Veterans and relatives who lost loved ones in the Falklands war will return to the islands, for the first time in four decades. 

The trip is giving 130 people who have a special connection to the conflict the chance to pay tribute and was funded by the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

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Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "I am delighted that the MOD and Armed Forces have been able to facilitate the return of veterans and bereaved families to the Falkland Islands for the first time in 40 years.

"This Remembrance we honour the efforts of all those who were involved in the conflict and remind ourselves of the sacrifices made by those who did not return, but will never be forgotten."

Everyone who is travelling applied independently through a MOD ballot announced in May 2022.

The commemorative journey takes place over the Remembrance period and was operated by RAF personnel from 101 Squadron.

Flying the aircraft to the Falkland Islands, Flight Lieutenant Joe Turner of 101 Squadron, said: "It is a real privilege, on behalf of 10 and 101 Squadron to play a part in transporting a number of veterans and families down to the Falkland Islands.

"We will always remember the courage and sacrifice they, and those who sadly did not return showed in 1982."

While in the Falkland Islands, the veterans and next of kin are visiting former battlefield sites and military cemeteries to remember those who lost their lives.

They will also attend Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday events in Stanley, reflecting on the sacrifice so many made.

The Falklands conflict took the lives of 255 British service personnel and three islanders in 1982.

A Remembrance service is being broadcast live from the Falkland Islands on 13 November at 13:35 UK time.

Forces News will stream the service from Stanley on its YouTube channel and on Facebook.

Head to our Falklands 40 page, where you can find our memorial wall, as well as more Falklands stories, videos and podcasts.