The BoB film really was the start of seeing former fighting machines being displayed in the public domain, and the machines themselves are now 'reminders' of a conflict that we could not avoid, and indeed were a 'defensive' force at the time. This was a very 'visible' battle fought over this country at a time when the rest of Europe was lost, therefore its part of history is considerable for us as an Island nation that had prepared for an invasion threat long before aircraft were invented. It was indeed 'our finest hour' because it involved everybody and the consequences would affect everyone. The simple fact that there are more flying reminders of that time now than a mere 15 years after the event is enough to show the public perception of how we had to defend ourselves at a very critical period of history, and the fact that the BBMF has a Lancaster in its fleet also is a reminder that Bomber Command were also involved even if the public at the time were not as aware. It is not a question of attaching 'glory' to a difficult situation in our history, but one of of reminding later generations of how the Country stood up against an evil force and how all the people involved worked together when needed.

I believe there is also Polish film called the Battle of Britain telling the story from their point of view.

During the last week in the Lady Chapel, RAF/B of B memorial chapel at the far end of Westminster Abbey there were several services, including a Polish one with a government representative. They were able to see the stained glass window honouring their part.

Lovely to see the Lancaster yesterday as I was heading South on the M40/A34 ...can't remember exactly where it was.!

..but made a nice distraction on a boring drive for myself and Mrs 622.

Thanks all at the BBMF :)

Hear hear.
Also over the Abbey yesterday, a Hurricane and a Spitfire, perhaps, with three passes. :ok:

One of the BBMF Spitfires beat up Biggin Hill on Saturday evening, out of sight to me but the easterly wind carried the Merlin's output to my appreciative ears. Shortly after it headed off towards the NE, two of the based TR.IXs took off - marvellous!

It is so the flames from the exhausts are not visible to the pilot, thus ruining his night sight.

So that we do remember, take a look at this. If the words of Avis Parsons (Hearn) MM (then 19 years old) do not move you, nothing will (min 15:40)

Hearn was invested with her medal by King George VI at Buckingham Palace in March 1941

It is ironic that when Churchill stood up to address the House of Commons, two days later, she could not have been mentioned. What she was doing was Secret.


https://p1.liveauctioneers.com/1558/...ion=1566546130

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikiped...943_seated.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avis_Hearn

The Battle of Britain was still in progress on this day 83 years ago

There are, I believe, two films called "303 Squadron". I can recommend the Polish-produced one, but have no idea of the other.

Wouldn’t it be really great if we had a unique collection of aircraft types from the Battle of Britain? I dunno - perhaps at Hendon? They could put them in a dedicated building and call it the ‘Battle of Britain Hall’. Just an idea…