THE Battle of Britain was fought between 10th July and 31st October 1940, a period of time during which Hitler’s Luftwaffe launched massive attacks, virtually on a daily basis, to gain air supremacy over the British Isles and thus enable the German generals to begin Operation Sealion, the invasion of Britain.
The most critical time was between 27th August and 6th September when the RAF came close to collapse. Two hundred and ninety-five fighters were destroyed, 171 badly damaged, and what was probably more serious for the defence of this Sceptred Isle was the loss of 103 pilots, either killed or reported missing, and 128 badly wounded.
The bravery shown by the few over the skies of southern England will never be forgotten, and as a reminder of those dark days seventy years ago, a Battle of Britain Parade and service is due to be held in Stourbridge. Rev Tom Chapman, chaplain and press officer at the Royal British Legion based at Enville Street in Stourbridge, has sent us the following information: “This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and the Stourbridge branch of the RAFA will hold their annual Battle of Britain parade service in Mary Stevens Park, Stourbridge, on Sunday September 19th. The parade will assemble by the council offices by 10.45am for a prompt 11.00am start. We invite past members of the RAF, WAAF, WRAF, and RAFVR, in the area to join us for this special occasion.
“It would be especially good if any of those who participated in the Battle of Britain could be present, and if so I would be grateful if they could let me know of their intentions by contacting me on 01384 373921. Also, if any family members of those who died during the Battle of Britain are able to attend, I would like to hear from them so that the names of those loved ones who paid the ultimate sacrifice are rightly remembered.
“Finally I appeal to Bugle readers who might be able to help me track down some information. Is it possible to find out the names of the airmen from the our region, who died during the Battle of Britain? It would be only right and fitting to record their valour and the part they played in defending Britain during the dark days of 1940.”
