Typhoon flypast at RAF Akrotiri and parade at home mark anniversary of Battle of Britain
The 86th anniversary of the Battle of Britain has been celebrated with a sunset ceremony at RAF Akrotiri with reflection on how to serve and defend the nation.
A Typhoon deployed with 11 Squadron on Op Shader flew low over the base to honour the men who fought in the 1940 battle and the crucial role played by the Women's Auxiliary Air Force.
Air Commodore Martin Cunningham, Deputy Commander of British Forces Cyprus (BFC), took the salute with the Station Commander, Group Captain Adam Smolak, as cadets from 1OS Akrotiri Squadron lowered the Royal Air Force flag.
Over in Aki
"The Battle of Britain was a real seminal moment for us in the Royal Air Force," said Gp Capt Smolak. "A moment where The Few defended the nation."
Wartime Prime Minister Winton Churchill coined the term The Few to describe the people who defended Britain against the Luftwaffe.
"It's really important to look back, to reflect and remember those who've gone before us," added Gp Capt Smolak.
"Also to reflect on what's required of us and what it means to continue to serve and defend the nation."
The RAF Akrotiri Voluntary Band played music for the ceremony at the Officers' Mess, performing the Evening Hymn, Sunset and the national anthem.
"It is an honour to do any of these types of things," said Antony Shuttleworth, instructor at the RAF Akrotiri Voluntary Band.
"It's good for the band because it gives us something to aim for."
He said the band was always looking for new members who are posted to RAF Akrotiri or the wider BFC community, plus veterans and civilians.
"It's always been there and we want to continue it," he added.
Back in Britain
Back home in the UK, personnel from RAF Wittering marked the 86th anniversary in Stamford, marching to the war memorial in Broad Street, where an open air service of remembrance was held.
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.
The Battle of Britain was fought between 10 July and 31 October 1940, with the Royal Air Force having its most decisive victory on 15 September.
On that day the Luftwaffe launched a massive assault in the skies over Britain. It was a day of heavy fighting, and the Luftwaffe suffered significant casualties.
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.
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