RAF Regiment's No. 2 Squadron Lays Old Standard To Rest

The RAF Regiment's No.2 Squadron has laid its old standard to rest in a ceremony close to RAF Brize Norton. 

The Standard, which has three decades of battle honours, was laid to rest at St Mary’s Church in Witney.

Squadron Leader Mark Bowden, Officer Commanding No.2 Squadron, said: "Historically, [a standard] is something you rally around at a time of chaos.

"We haven't had to do that, so that's good, but it's also a huge sense of pride because all your battle honours are emblazoned with the standard.

"It's the one thing you can look to as a squadron, with your badge on there, the squadron motto and it's something we all hold quite dear and protect."

The standard acts as a reminder of duty well done by the No. 2 Squadron, which has been in service for almost a century.

Most recently, during two tours of Afghanistan, it played a key role in protecting Kandahar Airfield.

At the front of St Mary's Church there were 29 helmets - a reminder of the 29 service personnel killed during the Squadron's history. 

Local dignitaries, as well as former members of No. 2 Squadron and serving personnel, attended the ceremony.

The standard was hung at the back of the church where it could stay for "decades", according to Squadron Leader Bowden.

"The squadron's standard will stay in the church and act as that point of focus for anyone that comes in," he said.

No. 2 Squadron is part of the RAF's Quick Reaction Alert force.

Each member has to be ready to act to threats or emergencies within six to 48 hours, living up to the squadron's motto of "never not ready".