As a reminder the new war memorial in Horndean will be dedicated on Tuesday 4th February 2020 at 12:00 with The Royal Marines School of Music performing from 11:45.
This is to commemorate the two RAAF pilots who were killed 75 years ago to the day while flying back from a bombing raid. The plane was lost and in very poor weather clipped the roof of the old parish hall at the end of Five Heads Road before crashing and blowing up behind the old brewery site.
Because they were not residents in Horndean they did not qualify for a place on the village War memorial so for the last 75 years their sacrifice has not been given proper acknowledgement.
The Children Of Horndean 1940’s who have had this vision for decades and are thrilled to see it a reality and with 9 members of the Airmens family flying over to take part in the dedication they would like to welcome you to join in the ceremony.
This will be attended by:
- The Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire Rear Admiral Iain Henderson CB CBE DL representing Her Majesty The Queen,
- Air Commodore Allan Vaughn representing the RAF and RAAF
- Representatives from The Australian High Commission,
- RAF Padre Charles Lewis
- The Venerable Gavin Collins, Arch-Deacon of Portsmouth
- 9 relatives of the airmen
The Royal Marines School of Music have also very kindly given their support to the event and will be providing a group of musicians to take us through The Dam Busters March, Hymns and Anthems.
You are most welcome to come along and support the event.
What a truly wonderful occasion. Organised by truly wonderful people.