Please help repay the debt we owe to RAF

AS the RAF’s most historic and newest aircraft fly over Buckingham Palace tomorrow, it will be a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by RAF personnel during 100 years of service.

The flypast marks the midway point for the RAF100 Appeal, a major fundraising drive launched by the RAF and its four main charities.

The RAF100 Appeal brings together the Royal Air Force, the RAF Association, the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF Charitable Trust, and the RAF Museum, to establish a legacy that matches the vision of Viscount Trenchard, who steered the formation of the RAF in 1918.

The Appeal encourages the British public to get involved in the celebrations and help repay “the debt we owe” and help to raise funds for the RAF family.

Very few British people can look back at their family history over the past 100 years and find themselves untouched by the courage, capability and achievements of the men and women who served – and continue to serve – in our Royal Air Force. The RAF100 Appeal provides an opportunity to show their appreciation.

People like Battle of Britain veteran Stan Hartill, who serviced Spitfires night after night during World War Two, who lives in comfort and dignity thanks to the RAF Benevolent Fund; or Mike Goody, injured while on patrol with the RAF Regiment in Afghanistan – home adaptations have given him back his independence.

As we look towards the next 100 years for the Air Force it is my wish that the legacy of this milestone will be to ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten, their memories live on to inspire the next generation. The RAF100 Appeal will support tens of thousands of individuals, young people, serving personnel and veterans.

To find out more or get involved visit: www.raf100appeal.org

Simon Collins Chairman of the RAF100 Appeal