BBC: Iraq crash RAF dead arrive home
The bodies of 10 servicemen killed when an RAF transport plane crashed in Iraq have arrived in the UK.
Nine airmen and a soldier died when the RAF Hercules came down 20 miles north-west of Baghdad on 30 January. Their remains have been returned to RAF Lyneham, Wiltshire, where eight of the airmen were based........
A C17 plane carrying the servicemen's bodies landed at the base at 12.45pm, for a 90-minute repatriation ceremony at 1.30pm.
"It is extremely poignant that today's ceremony is being held at RAF Lyneham as the majority of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident served or had served here," said Wing Cdr Jules Eaton.
"We are deeply saddened by their loss but are extremely proud and feel very privileged to be able to bring our friends and colleagues to their home base. "Their families are being offered every support on this difficult day and our highest priority is their well-being. Support will continue for as long as they require it".
"Every effort has been made to ensure that today's events are a dignified and solemn homecoming. This is not a memorial service, it is a homecoming."
Princess Anne, who is Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Lyneham, Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon and military chiefs are attending the service. The Princess will meet the families of the dead after the ceremony.
The 1 Squadron RAF Regiment and the Royal Corps of Signals have formed the bearer parties and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force and the RAF Regiment Band are providing the service music.
The families will be given time to spend with their loved ones before Wiltshire Coroner David Masters oversees the transfer of the coffins to Great Western Hospital in Swindon for formal identification.