On 15 September (Battle of Britain Day) cadets and staff of 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron Air training Corps attended a commemorative service in memory of those members of the Royal Air Force and the Air Forces of the Commonwealth and allies who gave their lives during the Battle of Britain.

The service took place at the Hall of Memory in New Century Way Birmingham

The Squadron band, which has become a familiar sight at civic events within the Nuneaton and Warwickshire area, was invited by the Birmingham branch of the Royal Air Forces Association, to lead the parade. The marching contingent of the parade comprised of the standards of the representative Royal Air Forces Associations a detachment from RAF Cosford, veterans and other Air Cadet units.

Two members of 121 squadron had special roles to play in the service. Cadet Mills was given the honour of carrying the Polish Air Force Association standard and Steve Anderson a civilian instructor with the squadron was given the task of playing the Last Post and Reveille.

Cadets from other squadrons within the Warwickshire and Birmingham wing were also represented at the service. Eight cadets from 2030 Squadron acted as wreath carriers and The Lord Lieutenant's cadet, Cadet Warrant Officer David Halton, of 8F (City of Coventry) Squadron had the honour of laying a wreath on the Lord Lieutenant's behalf.

Following the act of remembrance service and the laying of wreaths the parade which was lead by the 121 Squadron band formed up for the March Past. The salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, the Officer Commanding RAF Cosford, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham and officers of the R.A.F.A and other ex-service associations.

After the parade the cadets had the opportunity to meet some of the veterans who had served during the Battle of Britain. We've all seen the films and documentaries of the time but its only when you actually meet some of those involved and listen to their accounts that you start to understand what it must have been like.

Flt Lt. Ian Crewe Officer Commanding 121 Squadron, said that this was an opportunity for our cadets to honour the memory of those who gave their lives in the fight for freedom in the skies over Britain during 1940. We should also remember that many cadets from 121 squadron ATC, which was formed in 1939 actually served in the Royal Air Force during the war, some of whom lost their lives. Our parent unit 121 Squadron RAF was also operational, flying spitfires at the time of the Battle of Britain.

I was extremely pleased with the performance of the band and would like to congratulate Steve Anderson for playing the Last Post and Reveille, I know It's not easy to stand there in front of so many people and play in front of everyone at such an important event. The slightest slip or duff note is picked up immediately. Everyone I spoke to at the reception after the parade congratulated the band on its performance.

The Royal Air Forces Association
Serving ex_service members of the Royay Air Forces throughout the word.