Defence Online

Number 10 hosts Royal Air Force centenary reception

Air May 25, 2018

The Prime Minister Theresa May welcomed members of the Military to No10 to mark the Centenary of the Royal Air Force (RAF.)

The Prime Minister welcomed the Defence Secretary, three Service Chiefs and current and former service personnel to Downing Street to recognise the dedication of those who have served in the RAF over the last 100 years.

More than 150 guests attended the event, including personnel from the Navy and Army, in recognition of the contribution that all three services made in the formation of the RAF in 1918. Attendees were greeted with a ceremonial welcome guard at the entrance of Number 10, while inside the RAF Salon Orchestra played music from across the three services.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, introduced the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary, Gavin Williamson to cadets, new recruits and veterans, including the last surviving female pilot from World War Two, 101 year-old Mary Ellis, who were thanked for their contributions to the service at home and abroad.

Prime Minister Theresa May told the audience: “For one hundred years, the RAF has proved it is not only the first independent air force in the world, but the finest.

“It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines and the Army in defending our nation and promoting our values, and I am delighted that members of each Service are here this evening.”

image © Crown Copyright

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Centenary Gavin Williamson RAF Royal Air Force Theresa May

Post written by: Matt Brown