Royal British Legion Anniversary Wreath Laying

Published on 6 June 2011

On Sunday 5 June the Chairman of Epping Forest District Council Councillor Ken Angold-Stephens hosted a very special visit to North Weald Airfield in honour of the 90th Anniversary of the Royal British Legion.

The event also coincided with the North Weald Airfield American Eagles Fun Day and Fly-in which was held to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the American Eagle Squadron at North Weald Airfield during World War II.

Councillor Angold-Stephens said: “I felt honoured that representatives from each of the branches of the Royal British Legion in the district attended, along with the American Air Attaché to the UK, Colonel Sonny Blinkinsop and four representatives from the American Honour Guards.”

Wreaths were laid at the base of the Gate Guardian in memory of those who had lost their lives in conflict and the guests then toured the Airfield museum.

The Chairman was also delighted to make a presentation at the Control Tower to 91 year old Doris Holden from the North Weald branch of the British Legion. Doris served at the airfield during the Second World War and has been an active member of the Legion for over 30 years. One of the highlights of the day for Doris was a chance to visit the Air Traffic Control Centre. Doris said: “It was a wonderful view and I really enjoyed the chance to see the airfield in action.”

Councillor Angold-Stephens said: “Today we recognise the Royal British Legion, which does so much great work with the bereaved and injured amongst our uniformed veterans. The demand for their support unfortunately shows no sign of abating in these troubled times as we think about the injured and bereaved of more modern interventions as well as those wars of long ago. They may be different types of wars, often with a less definable front line but our forces are still risking life and limb every day to protect the freedoms we enjoy. The Royal British Legion is an organisation which we all should cherish now and into the future.”

He concluded: “North Weald Airfield has a long history and it is wonderful that even after all these years our colleagues in the armed services come along to honour significant anniversaries with us.”

Later that day thousands of people attended the American Eagles Fun Day and Fly-in, enjoying a variety of attractions. View pictures and watch a video of the day.

Crowds Flock to American Eagles Fun Day and Fly-in

« back