[David Houghton]

I will always have wonderful memories of Roy entertaining us at many Association Reunions, and of the fascinating talk he gave at one of the Dining-In Nights with 57 Squadron that Association Members were invited to.

A warm, charming man, whose service with 57 Squadron came at a pivotal point in history for the RAF.  He will be missed.

[David Houghton]

As Tony Gunby has mentioned, I was honoured to be able to say ‘farewell’ to Jim at the South Oxfordshire Crematorium on 1 August, and to be able to chat with Jim’s sons, Dane, Neil and Keith.

I was fortunate enough to get to know Jim over the last 20 years, and was privileged to join him and other veterans from 630 Squadron on a number of trips to Skarrild, Denmark to remember the crew of 630 Squadron Lancaster ME650 (LE-B), which was shot down near the village on 26/27 August 1944.

In his moving eulogy to his father, Neil described Jim as a ‘peaceful’ man – that struck a chord with me as a perfect description of Jim, and a wonderful way to remember a wonderful man.

So long Jim – we’ll miss you.

• This reply was modified 2 years, 5 months ago by David Houghton.

[David Houghton]

On Monday 11 January 2021, I had the honour to represent the Association at Alma’s funeral.  The service was warm, loving and a fitting tribute to a wonderful woman who will be missed by all those who knew her.

I have attached a copy of the Order of Service from Alma’s farewell.

[David Houghton]

I’ll miss Alma’s graceful presence at our Reunions………..and the mischievous twinkle in her eyes!!  Alma will be remembered with great fondness by all those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

[David Houghton]

On 17 September 2020 Len’s friends and family came together to say ‘farewell’ to a wonderful man.  I was fortunate enough to be invited to attend and represent the Association.

Len chose a simple, civil funeral – a moving but happy occasion as we remembered Len and celebrated his life.

[David Houghton]

Len’s funeral will be held at Bury St Edmund’s Crematorium on 17 September 2020.

Unfortunately, Covid-19 restrictions mean that only invited family and friends can attend Len’s farewell in person.

However, others can join the ceremony virtually, using the details contained in the image below.

[David Houghton]

It was a privilege to know Len, whose unfailing modesty and good humour was an inspiration.  I particularly recall that, at the formal Dining-In Night (DIN) with 57 Squadron at RAFC Cranwell in 2018, Len agreed to be the Association’s guest speaker.

He spoke with humour and feeling, and the ovation he received from all the attendees at the DIN reflected the respect felt by all towards Len.

The day after the DIN Len was invited to accompany Squadron Leader Mike Waring, Officer Commanding 57 Squadron, to sign RAFC Cranwell’s ‘Wall of Honour’ – a rare honour, but thoroughly deserved for a true hero.

[Author]

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