[Roger Bayford]

So sorry to hear of the passing of Alma, I only met her just once. It was an honor and a privilege to meet her. I listened intently to her descriptions of life at East Kirkby in those wartime years! She will be missed by all.

• This reply was modified 3 years, 4 months ago by Roger Bayford.

[Roger Bayford]

Thanks Tony for letting us  know the passing of Flight Lieutenant Steve Stevens. A sad message. It is so hard to see the remaining original crew members of 57 Squadron leave us.   Steve was a wonderful individual and I was honored to be able to sit and chat to him several times. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was able to tell me about the lifestyles that he and other crew members like my father spent during those wartime days.

My condolences to his family, and know that he was well loved by the members of the Association. He will live on in our memories!

Roger Bayford.  Indiana , USA

Son of Sergeant Cyril Bayford 57 Squadron,

Lost November 11, 1944

 

[Roger Bayford]

It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Gordon. Thank you Tony for letting us know.  Although sad at his passing, I will have the great memories of the reunions and Gordon.  For the years that I attended, Gordon was very helpful and introduced me to many of the members! My annual visits  from the USA were the highlight of my year and I will miss Gordon and his dry humor!

Farewell Gordon, you will not be forgotten, your time and effort as Secretary was very much appreciated.

Keep them flying!

Roger Bayford – son of Sgt Cyril Bayford 57 Squadron  –   Lost 1944

[Roger Bayford]

I was fortunate to be in London just a couple of weeks after the Memorial was unveiled.  It  was part of my planned vacation from the USA and I was not disappointed.  At long last a real memorial for Bomber Command.

I stood in front of the memorial transfixed by the wonderful sculptures of the crew members. It was as if I had stepped back in time and could see a real Lancaster crew standing there. It was a memorable visit and one I will not forget.

At long last Bomber Command has its own memorial.  A fitting tribute to all those that served and those that gave their lives in service of their country.

I hope to visit it again on my next trip back to the UK

Roger Bayford,       (Sgt Cyril Bayford  – Lancaster DX-H Lost Harburg  11-11-1944)

[Roger Bayford]

Unfortunately I will not be able to attend the 2017 reunion. I had planned to make it this year after missing the last 3 years. Circumstances and a packed schedule wont allow it. I will be thinking of you all during the weekend,  It is our July fourth Holiday weekend here, but I will be watching the clock and my thoughts will be with you all.  I will especially miss the Sunday morning memorial service and the laying of the wreaths.

Wishing you fine weather and a wonderful weekend. Will be thinking of you all.

Roger M Bayford      Son of  (Sgt Cyril Bayford – lost Nov 11 1944) Beckdorf, Germany-  57 Squadron, Lancaster D-XH

Indiana USA

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