It was a pleasure to welcome Navy Wings’ 1940s biplane torpedo bomber Fairey Swordfish, the oldest surviving airworthy Fairey Swordfish in the world, and the 1930s Harvard training aircraft as part of the event at Ramsgate last week to mark the anniversary of Operation Dynamo.
Eighty-five years ago – between 26 May and 4 June 1940 – about 850 private boats of all shapes and sizes sailed from UK shores through heavy enemy fire on a rescue mission to save Allied troops stranded on the beaches and harbour at Dunkirk as the Nazis swept through France. Sixty-six small boats took place in the re-enactment and Navy Wings participated in the accompanying air display.
Navy Wings is an aviation charity based in Somerset, celebrates and commemorates Britain’s great naval aviation heritage; one of the most remarkable stories of the past hundred years.
From its earliest beginnings in 1909, to the new aircraft carriers, F35 jets and Merlin and Wildcat helicopters of the Fleet Air Arm of today, the story of naval flying is one of epic achievements, heroic and daring actions and world leading technological advancement. Navy Wings brings the excitement of this story to life by restoring and flying a collection of rare and historically significant naval aircraft which display to millions each year at air shows around the country. The charity’s aim is to inspire future generations, to remember the service and sacrifice of naval flying and promote a deeper understanding of the important part played by the Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air Arm in the history of our country.
The Navy Wings collection includes some of the only flying examples of the finest classic naval aircraft types in the world, from the iconic WWII veteran Swordfish, which took part in Operation Dynamo, to the powerful Sea Fury FB.11. The charity also restores aircraft and is currently working on the restoration of a Sea Hawk jet and a second Swordfish. These remarkable aircraft are an irreplaceable part of our national heritage. Navy Wings relies on public donations to keep these magnificent aircraft flying.
Next time we welcome Navy Wings to their airport, it will be for the Manston International Air Show in August! To find out more about their work, visit www.navywings.org.uk.
You can read more about the commemorative events here: Royal Navy guards the legendary Little Ships of Dunkirk for 85th anniversary voyage