As the nation looked to the skies [July 10] to see the RAF’s most historic and newest aircraft fly over Buckingham Palace, it was a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by all RAF personnel during 100 years of service.
The flypast also marked the midway point for the RAF100 Appeal, a major fundraising drive launched by the RAF and its four main charities. The RAF100 Appeal brings together the Royal Air Force, the RAF Association, the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF Charitable Trust, and the RAF Museum to establish a legacy that matches the vision of Viscount Trenchard who steered the formation of the RAF in 1918.
The Appeal encourages the British public to get involved in the celebrations and help repay ‘the debt we owe’ and help to raise funds for the past, present and future RAF Family, inspiring, honouring and supporting all who have given so much.
The centenary year of the Royal Air Force provides a unique opportunity to commemorate the service and the sacrifice of those who have gone before. Very few British people can look back at their family history over the past 100 years and find themselves untouched by the courage, capability and achievements of the men and women who served – and continue to serve – in our Royal Air Force. The RAF100 Appeal provides an opportunity to show their appreciation and help support RAF charities.
People like Battle of Britain veteran Stan Hartill who serviced the Spitfires night after night during the Second World War, who lives in comfort and dignity thanks to the RAF Benevolent Fund, one of the Appeal charities; or Mike Goody, injured while on patrol with the RAF Regiment in Afghanistan, whose home adaptations have given him back his independence.
As we look towards the next 100 years for the Air Force it is my wish that the legacy of this milestone will be to ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten, their memories live on to inspire the next generation. The RAF100 Appeal will support tens of thousands of individuals, young people, serving personnel and veterans.
To find out more or get involved visit: www.raf100appeal.org
Simon Collins
Chairman of the RAF100 Appeal
I sure whether you voted remain or leave everyone in Coventry wants us to get the best Brexit deal for our country we can, meaning we can build a better future for ordinary people by getting control of our laws, money and borders.
This weekend the government agreed a position to negotiate a good deal with the EU. We need more then ever all parties backing this. I am therefore amazed Labour figures have now backed or failed to rule out a second EU referendum confirming they’re leaving the door open to re-running the referendum.
This approach would get us the worst deal and not deliver the change the country needs. I am really pleased the cabinet has agreed a collective position for our negotiations with the EU.
This proposal will avoid friction in terms of trade, which protects jobs and livelihoods, as well as meeting our commitments in Northern Ireland.
What we need and I am sure the residents in Coventry would agree is that the government move at pace to negotiate our proposal with the EU to deliver the prosperous and secure future for residents in Coventry and the wider UK.
Councillor Tim Mayer
Westwood Ward (Conservative)
