Island remembers allied aircrew
VETERANS and dignitaries attended this year’s commemoration to fallen airmen at the Allied Aircrew Memorial at the Guernsey Airport to lay wreaths.
The ceremony yesterday afternoon remembered the 153 airmen known to have died off Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm during the Second World War.
Douglas Coxell, the island’s oldest surviving Second World War pilot, attended the ceremony alongside more of the island’s veterans and the Guernsey Air Scouts.
It was led by the Reverend Dave Knight.
‘This has been the fourth year that we have held this,’ said organiser Mike Snelling.
‘It is both for the older generation who were part of the war, but mainly it is for the youngsters.
‘It’s a history lesson for them while keeping the memory of those who did so much for them, alive.’
Alex Allan, 87, who was part of the 14th regiment in the Royal Artillery, said after serving in the 1950s he would always commemorate those who were part of the armed services.
‘I’m happy to come here,’ he said.
‘There’s a good turnout and to show my due to the people who protect our country is the least I can do.’
This year’s flypast of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight was meant to involve the C47 escorted by a Spitfire and Hurricane. However, it was cancelled due to bad weather.
Jersey was holding its air display yesterday. Guernsey chose to have its display in June so the Red Arrows could perform.
n The Battle of Britain service will take place at the Church of Scotland in the Grange at 10.30am on Sunday.
