A FITTING TRIBUTE
15th April, 2024 at Stirling
On 15th April 1916, a group of early aviators gathered in the fields beneath the crags and ramparts of Stirling Castle to form what was to become one of the Royal Air Force’s most distinguished fighter squadrons. The first Squadron Commander, Captain William Sholto Douglas MC RFC - later to become Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Douglas of Kirtleside, was, at that time flying at RAF Montrose, recorded in his log book "April 15th went to Stirling to start No 43 Squadron as acting Squadron Commander”.
On 15th April, 2024 at 19.16hrs an ex member of 43(F) Squadron flew his Typhoon jet over Stirling Castle to mark the 'birthday' of The Fighting Cocks. 3 Squadrons of Air Cadets including the City of Stirlings own Squadron paraded their standards as a mark of respect and laid a wreath at the 43(F) Squadron memorial stone. Group Captain Derek Johnston RAF Chairman of 43(F) Squadron Association was in attendance along with other past members of the squadron. Sincere thanks to Lewis Macdonald for the photos and video. GLORIA FINIS.
Jim Campbell, our Association Secretary sent in this report: Under a very atmospheric back drop of Stirling Castle, Cadets from Stirling and Dunblane took part in a memorial service acknowledging the Squadrons formation 15/04/1916. The turnout was superb and plenty of relatives there to support the cadets. A brief address was given by Association Chairman Derek Johnston reminding those present of the importance of recognising the achievements of the Squadron and thanking the cadets and their officers for their continued support. A young piper played the lament under the watchful eye of our own Huggy Hughes and a fly past by a Typhoon of 2(AC) Sqn was a highlight for young and old alike. Well done and thank you to all of those who paraded and supported this tribute to 43(F).
Gloria Finis.
On 15th April, 2024 at 19.16hrs an ex member of 43(F) Squadron flew his Typhoon jet over Stirling Castle to mark the 'birthday' of The Fighting Cocks. 3 Squadrons of Air Cadets including the City of Stirlings own Squadron paraded their standards as a mark of respect and laid a wreath at the 43(F) Squadron memorial stone. Group Captain Derek Johnston RAF Chairman of 43(F) Squadron Association was in attendance along with other past members of the squadron. Sincere thanks to Lewis Macdonald for the photos and video. GLORIA FINIS.
Jim Campbell, our Association Secretary sent in this report: Under a very atmospheric back drop of Stirling Castle, Cadets from Stirling and Dunblane took part in a memorial service acknowledging the Squadrons formation 15/04/1916. The turnout was superb and plenty of relatives there to support the cadets. A brief address was given by Association Chairman Derek Johnston reminding those present of the importance of recognising the achievements of the Squadron and thanking the cadets and their officers for their continued support. A young piper played the lament under the watchful eye of our own Huggy Hughes and a fly past by a Typhoon of 2(AC) Sqn was a highlight for young and old alike. Well done and thank you to all of those who paraded and supported this tribute to 43(F).
Gloria Finis.
