MP for Buckingham praises community fundraising effort for an RAF memorial near Leighton Buzzard
Individuals including farmers and airfield tenants, who have met online through the Stewkley, Wing and Cublington History Group Facebook site have been coordinating a fundraising campaign to erect and unveil a memorial in remembrance of World War Two service personnel who were stationed there.
MP Mr Smith said: “My congratulations to all those that are working together to create this special place of remembrance.
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“We must never forget the sacrifice that so many made to protect our freedom. We are forever in their debt and our thanks alone could never be enough. It is therefore uplifting to see this community collaboration take place to permanently commemorate the rich history of the former RAF Wing airfield in Buckinghamshire.
“This airfield played an important part in the training of operational aircrew from the UK, and from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and many other allied nations. The diverse and energetic young men and women that served here, and many who made the ultimate sacrifice, have forever gained our respect and gratitude. We will remember them.”
The LBO recently reported that the project has so far raised over £2,000. The memorial, which will be located by the runways and somewhere where the public can get safe access to it, will be unveiled when pandemic restrictions ease.
The Herts and Bucks Wing of the Air Training Corps have shown their support too, and have agreed to be a formal partner to the airfield memorial.
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Matt Oram, wing commander of the RAF Air Cadets and officer commanding the Herts and Bucks Wing ATC, said: “It is important we all take time to remember our history, and those that sacrificed so much for us. I am delighted to have the Herts and Bucks Wing of the Air Training Corps involved in the remembrance of RAF Wing and commemorating the thousands of young people who served and flew from there. As we mark the 80th anniversary year of the Air Training Corps, this partnership is even more pertinent.”
For more information about the fundraising or to donate, visit https://www.facebook.com/donate/762775477660269/