The King has visited Scotland’s main RAF base to observe a special flypast and to thank dedicated families for their service and sacrifice
King Charles has made a surprise visit to Scotland’s main RAF base ahead of the royal family ’s summer break to Balmoral.
The King visited RAF Lossiemouth in Moray, northern Scotland, today to attend the stand-up parade for Number 42 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron, before he gave a rousing speech to thank the military and their families for their enduring service and sacrifice.
After arriving by helicopter and being greeted by a parade playing God Save The King, the monarch gave a speech where he acknowledged the upcoming VJ Day on August 15 and thanked families for their “encouragement and understanding” which he said was critical to the success of the air force.
He said: “With just a week until VJ Day, it is a fitting moment to recall that your aviators flew throughout the Burma Campaign in their Blenheim Bombers and Republic Thunderbolts.”
“Today, we also recognise the vital role played by your families and friends, some of whom I am delighted to see can join us today. Their unwavering support is the foundation upon which this squadron’s success is built.
“It is their encouragement and understanding that enable you all to dedicate yourselves so fully to your duties. On behalf of the nation, I can only offer all the families my heartfelt thanks for the sacrifices you make and the strength you provide.”
He praised the “dedication, skill and professionalism” of staff, and added: “The squadron’s work not only ensures the operational readiness of the Royal Air Force, but also strengthens our bonds with our Nato partners whom you train, including Canada and Norway.
“By providing world-leading training to our allies, you contribute to a shared commitment to peace, security and co-operation across the globe.”
King Charles also re-presented the squadron standard which had previously been blessed by a vicar who prayed for the military and their families as well as the monarch.
The King was given a tour of the squadron buildings and the Poseidon hangar, before he was given a tour of one multi-role maritime patrol aircraft and met the crew, who showed him cutting-edge technology to detect, identify and monitor targets, which will be rolled out to Norway, Canada and Germany later this year.
The King met members from the Typhoon air wing, senior leadership and representatives from the community, including children from the Airplay Youth support programme and their families, who live near the RAF base.
He also met representatives from community projects including support for families of deployed service personnel, and a community group which is planting Christmas trees in sand dunes at Lossiemouth Beach. The King was even presented with handpicked flowers from a young royal fan in the crowd.
Officer commanding training Sergeant Simon Bracknell said of the visit: “It is a really proud day for everyone involved, they worked really hard, even with the storm 24 hours ago with 80mph winds.
“The standard that we have marks the squadron’s battle history. For the King to present it is really special.”