The United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF) is the oldest independent air force in the world and on 1 April 2018, the RAF celebrated its centenary.
One hundred years ago, King George V authorised the creation of a new branch of the British military, in response to the growing role of air power in warfare.
This was created by merging the aviation branches of the Royal Navy and British Army together into a single service, the Royal Air Force. At that time it was the largest air force in the world.
At its' height during World War Two more than 1 million personnel served in the RAF.
Her Majesty The Queen paid tribute to the RAF in a statement;
"The anniversary of the world's first independent air force is of great significance, and it is fitting to pay tribute to the tenacity, skill and sacrifice of the men and women who have served within its ranks over the last century, and who have defended our freedom gallantly. May the glory and honour that all ranks have bestowed on the Royal Air Force light its pathway to the future guarding our skies and reaching for the stars."
Please join with us in paying tribute to the incredible men and women who have served in the Royal Air Force over the last 100 years and look at these fantastic photos from Carl Wrightson which are a fitting tribute to the incredible planes of the RAF.
Per Ardua ad Astra.
Comments
I am very proud that my grandfather served for many years in the RAF, my father during his National Service and my brother and I as cadets / Non Commissioned Officers at St John's School, Leatherhead. Flying with the RAF provided unforgettable experiences for us.