The 70 th anniversary of the Battle of Britain was celebrated in Leamington Spa on Sunday 12 September.

Organised by 310 branch RAFA in Leamington Spa the event was attended by the Air cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron ATC Coventry, the Chairman of the District Council, the Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa Councillor Robert Cunliffe and other dignitaries.

This memorial service took place at the War memorial, Euston Place at 3pm . With a welcome from the president of the RAFA Leamington Spa Branch Robert Coombes, the service was led by an RAF Padre.

With readings from a Letter of St Paul to the Romans and the Kohima Epitaph, The act of remembrance was noticed during the Last Post.

This Battle of Britain service honoured and commemorated the members of the Air Force who fought and died during the battle and as well as recognizing all the men and woman who continue to serve in the Royal Air Force today.

Commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, it is considered to be the most important event in Royal Air Force history.

Historians have described the Battle , which involved almost 3,000 allied aircrew, as the turning point of the Second World War. The victory, described by Sir Winston Churchill as Britain 's “finest hour” gave hope to a demoralized Britain and northern Europe . It was the first battle to be won purely by air power.

In all, the RAF lost 1,173 planes and 510 pilots and gunners killed in the Battle .   The Luftwaffe lost 1,733 planes and 3,368 airmen killed or captured.   If the Luftwaffe had succeeded, Britain would have been invaded and conquered.  But the RAF held out, and Britain survived.  

Every year the battle is commemorated around the county and during this platinum celebration year, the Cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron Air Training Corps were proud to be represented in the event at the Cenotaph in Leamington Spa, standing amongst the standards that were on parade.

Cadet Flight Sergeant John Ormsby from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron Air Training Corps helped out with the passing of the standards and stood to attention in front of the cenotaph during the readings.

To mark the occasion there was also a fly past over the cenotaph. The fly past was of a spitfire from the RAF historic flight during the ceremony. The Spitfire is the most famous British fighter aircraft in history. It became a symbol of freedom during the summer months of 1940 by helping to defeat the German air attacks during the Battle of Britain. It was the highest performing Allied aircraft in 1940 and achieved legendary status during the Battle of Britain.

Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant Nathan Adams of 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron Air Training Corps said ' “It's very appropriate to mark the Battle of Britain . “This was one of the most crucial battles of the war, especially on September 15.“ It is also important for the cadets to remember and say their thank you's to 'The Few' who stood up to fight for this country and the free world against seemingly impossible odds'