POLISH AIR FORCE MEMORIAL, RAF NORTHOLT

On 7th September, 318 (Sale) Sqn cadets and staff were honoured to once again take part in the Polish Air Force Commemoration Ceremony in Ruislip, London. With our colleagues and fellow Polish squadron number 317 Failsworth Sqn, we joined the parade with Middlesex Wing at the Polish Air Force Memorial outside RAF Northolt. Alongside veterans, Polish Air Force cadets from Dęblin, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Wigston, we commemorated the 80th Anniversary of the first shots of the Second World War on 1st September 1939, and the sacrifices of the Polish Air Force. The banners of 317 and 318 were paraded alongside those of the Polish Air Force. Our cadets were also honoured to present the VIPs and veterans with their wreaths and escort them to the memorial, with Cpl Marshall carrying the Chief of Air Staff's wreath, and Cdt Shepard the wreath of the Deputy Air Attaché for the USA. Included among the VIPs this year was OC 318: proudly representing 318 City of Gdansk Squadron RAF, on behalf of the veterans, OC 318 Sale Squadron, Flt Lt Barnwell, laid the wreath escorted by Cdt Altoft of 318. After the parade, hosted by RAF Northolt, our cadets and staff were privileged to meet and talk with the Chief of Air Staff. OC Middlesex Wing was also kind enough to show the cadets around the historic sites of RAF Northolt, the home of the Polish Air Force in Britain during the Second World War, including the Officers Mess. Our thanks to Middlesex Wing, RAF Northolt, and the organisers of the parade. The ongoing commemoration of the contribution of Polish forces in Britain - the "Island of last hope" - remains significant, and is assured by this event. Greater Manchester Wing - Air Training Corps 317 Failsworth Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets Regional Commandant North - Air Cadets RFCA for the North West of England & the Isle of Man