Dear Editor,

Many readers will know that the Royal Air Force was founded on April 1st, 1918 on the merger of the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service. It became the first military air service independent of Army or Navy control and it is totally appropriate that its centenary year should be marked by any number of events throughout the United Kingdom. Herefordshire too will mark the anniversary

The principal local event will be centred on a service in Hereford Cathedral on Sunday, April 29th, 2018 which will have as its theme: ‘Commemorate, Celebrate, Inspire’. It will reflect on the many past achievements of the RAF and at the same time look to the future.

The afternoon service will be led by the Dean of Hereford and will be attended by a wide range of Herefordshire people. The RAF Cosford Voluntary Band will be present as will Royal British Legion standards and those of other ex-Service organizations. During the service various readings will relate to significant past RAF events.

It is already known that there will be a good turn-out of veterans, current service men and women, reservists and cadets. Of particular importance will be the presence of the Air Cadets from units throughout the county. At the end of the service there will be a parade through the Cathedral Close led by the RAF Cosford Voluntary Band with the Lord-Lieutenant taking the salute. A fly-past by RAF aircraft is also planned. Every effort is being made to ensure that as many people as possible who have connections with the Light Blue service have an opportunity to attend.

More information about the event will in due course be sent to all regular units, reserve forces, veterans’ and cadet/youth organisations throughout the county. Anyone who feels that they might be missed when details are being circulated should contact either David Packman (email: [email protected]; phone: 01531-248294) or Peter Hereford (email: [email protected]; phone: 01544-319223).

David Packman

Ledbury