Presentation of a new Standard to XI Squadron

The Association was kindly invited to attend the presentation of a new Standard to XI Squadron on 22nd September at

RAF Coningsby.

This is only the third Standard to be presented in the history of the squadron. Previous standards were presented at Wunstorf in

1954 and Binbrook in 1984.

Air Chief Marshal Graydon, our Patron, was the reviewing officer. Honoured guests were Lady Graydon, AVM Collins,

AVM Bagwell - AOC 1 Group, Air Commodore Jarron, Reverend Craig, Group Captain Hitchcock - OC RAF Coningsby,

Group Captain Innes and Group Captain Parker.

The parade was attended by 30 Association members. My particular thanks to the five WW2 members who made a special effort

to support the Squadron.

The weather was exceptionally kind, apart from a strong westerly breeze which made it particularly demanding for the standard

bearer.

An absolutely faultless parade included two flypasts from a Squadron 4 ship formation, naturally timed to the second.

The parade was followed by a superbly impressive display by a Typhoon flown by Sqn Ldr Scott Loughran.

We then retired to the XI Squadron site for an exceptionally well hosted Barbeque and refreshment ! Speeches were then given

by Wg Cdr Attridge and AVM Collins. Our thanks to Association member Gary Hewitt for his generosity.

The Hurricane IIc display flown by Sq Ldr Parkinson has to be the best I have ever seen.

Our thanks to OC XI Squadron Wg Cdr Attridge for inviting the Association along to such a special day in the history of XI

Squadron. Also our thanks to Flt Lt Andy King who once again has been unfailing in his support and help for the Association.

It was a truly memorable event.