Trophy tribute to 43 Squadron

The Beedle trophy commemorates Jimmy Beedle, the 43 Fighter Squadron (fighting cocks) Association’s principal founding member, longtime secretary and author of the squadron history.

Following his death in 1989, the committee of the association commissioned a trophy in his memory to be presented each year to a serving member of the squadron.

The trophy is in the form of a single blade of a Hurricane propeller cast in silver and mounted on a stand.

This reflects 43 Squadron’s service with Hurricanes from 1939-1943 throughout a key period in its history, including the Battle of Britain, in which Jimmy was involved in.

The trophy was presented annually from 1990 to 2009 to the noncommissioned officer or airman who had displayed most effort in the the preceding year.

Following the disbandment of 43 Squadron, it has been decided that this tradition be continued but with the recipient being an individual who has made a significant recent contribution to the association and to the memory 43 Squadron.