Originally posted on 29 October 2015 by David Houghton

It is with great regret and sadness that I must inform Association Members of the death on 24 October 2015 of Marshal of the Royal Air Force Sir Michael Beetham GCB CBE DFC AFC DL RAF, who served with 57 Squadron towards the end of World War 2 and who, in a distinguished Service career, rose to become Chief of the Air Staff (CAS).

Notwithstanding his illustrious lifetime of service, Sir Michael never forgot the men he served with during his time with Bomber Command, and I know that, like me, many Association Members will recall with fondness Sir Michael’s humour and comradeship at many of our Reunions. I was personally always struck by Sir Michael’s inestimable patience and humility and will remember with great fondness the encouragement and support he gave meas I ‘found my feet’ when I was fortunate to become the Association President. It was typical of Sir Michael’s enduring regard for the RAF, those who have served and those who serve now that, when he could attend our annual Memorial Service, he would kindly take the time and trouble to inspect the 57 Squadron Standard Party or, prior to that, the Air Cadet Guard of Honour.

A wide-ranging and in-depth obituary covering all aspects of Sir Michael’s life can be found at http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituar … tuary.html.

For those who had the pleasure and privilege to know Sir Michael that obituary simply reinforces what we already knew – Sir Michael was a man of great honour, great distinction and great achievements, but above all he was a warm, caring and compassionate human being who we will miss.

The RAF has lost a great hero and the Association a great friend – we will miss him.

Association Members may wish to know that I have written to Lady Patricia to express the Association’s condolences.

David Houghton