Battle of Britain Veterans Mark 2013 Anniversary

Monday, 16th September 2013

Battle of Britain Veterans Mark 2013 Anniversary

A Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication to mark Battle of Britain Sunday was held at Westminster Abbey on Sunday 15th September 2013.

HRH The Prince of Wales was represented by Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Johns GCB KCVO CBE.

In his Bidding the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, said:

Once again we come together on Battle of Britain Sunday in this House of Kings and House of Prayer to give thanks for the dedication and heroism of members of the Royal Air Force and the allied air forces in that remarkable struggle for air supremacy over Britain in 1940. Their courage marked a turning point in the war, for without their bravery it is hard to see how the Second World War could have been won.
As we reflect today on their gallantry and fortitude, we remember all who have served and still serve in the Royal Air Force. We honour all who fight in the service of freedom; we express penitence for the suffering and destruction caused by armed conflicts; and we renew our commitment to work for justice, freedom, and decency.

Corporal A Knight RAUXAF, 2624 Squadron, Training  JNCO, read Deuteronomy 32: 1-12 and Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford KCB CBE RAF, Chief of the Air Staff, read Romans 5: 1-5.

The sermon was preached by the Venerable Raymond Pentland CB QHC RAF, Chaplain-in-Chief, Royal Air Force.

Prayers were led by the Reverend Dr James Hawkey, Minor Canon and Sacrist of Westminster, and included biddings by Mrs D Burns, wife of Flight Lieutenant O Burns, Battle of Britain veteran.

The service included an Act of Remembrance during which the Battle of Britain Roll of Honour was borne from the Chapel of St George to the Sacrarium by Battle of Britain veterans. At the start of the service the Standard of Number 41 Squadron was borne through the Abbey church and laid by the Dean upon the High Altar.

Before he pronounced the Blessing, the Dean led an Act of Rededication ‘to building a world where there is justice and peace for all, and where women, men and children live a life of full human dignity.’

The service was sung by the Choir of Westminster Abbey conducted by James O’Donnell, Organist and Master of the Choristers. The organ was played by Daniel Cook, Sub Organist. The Central Band of the RAF, conducted by Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs RAF, also played at the service.

See also:

The Order of Service (PDF, 124 KB)

TAGS
Special Service | Royal Visit | HRH The Prince of Wales | Battle of Britain Sunday
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