Well, BoB celebrations may be getting fewer and further between, but there is one excellent annual event run by the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust. It doesn't happen on BoB day, but on the Sunday nearest to the official start of the battle on 10 July. The venue is the wonderful Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne, high on the cliffs above Folkestone, near the epicentre of the battle - sometimes referred to as Hellfire Corner.
This year, about a dozen splendid battle veterans graced us with their presence. The RAF Silk Ensign was paraded by the Queen's Colour Squadron, and the salute was taken by Prince Michael of Kent, who's the Trust Patron. A BBMF Spitfire and Hurricane flew low over the salute, and then returned later in the afternoon for a full display.
I really can't recommend the day strongly enough - it is a wonderful occasion.
And if you're not familiar with the memorial itself, it's very much worth a visit at any time. It looks out across the Channel, and on a good day you can see the French coast. The site has a calmness and a strength that is particularly conducive to remembrance and gratitude.
You can find more about it at
Battle of Britain Memorial Trust | The National Memorial to The Few at Capel le Ferne
In 2014, Memorial Day will be Sunday 6 July. See you there, perhaps?
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