Belgian veterans honour Battle of Britain aircrew at the Memorial

On a crisp and sunny day, members of the NSB/FNC UK, the UK branch of the Royal Federation of Belgian Veterans (the Nationale Strijdersbond van Belgie, Federation Nationale Des Combattants De Belgique), gathered to pay tribute to the Belgian aircrew who fought in the Battle of Britain. The event at the Memorial included a short service and a wreath-laying ceremony.

The ceremony began with a moving performance of Flowers of the Forest by a Pipe Major, setting a poignant tone for the tribute. This was followed by the playing of both the Belgian and British national anthems, as well as the traditional Last Post, which was observed by all in attendance with a minute's silence.

Afterwards, Reveille was sounded, and the President of the NSB/FNC addressed the crowd. 

The ceremony culminated with a wreath-laying tribute to the 28 Belgian aircrew who bravely fought during the Battle of Britain.

The event concluded with the Pipe Major’s rendition of Amazing Grace, leaving the attendees with a sense of solemn respect for the sacrifice of the Belgian aircrew.

Jules Gomez, Memorial Manager, expressed his support for the ceremony, agreeing to host a similar event next year in honour of these brave veterans.