Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Honorary Air Commodore to RAF Brize Norton, attended RAF Brize Norton for the consecration parade of the new 101 Squadron Standard which also marked the end of service life of the venerable VC10.
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford speaks to personnel on parade during the consecration ceremony for 101 Squadron at RAF Brize Norton.
Standards epitomize the service and deeds of the Squadrons to which they belong and as such they are regarded with the veneration they deserve, and receive a religious blessing when they are presented. The Standard is honored as a symbol of trust which the Sovereign has placed in the Squadron, and is an emblem of its achievements, being a reminder of the devotion and sacrifice of our predecessors, and an inspiration to those who serve. In June 1962, HRH Princess Margaret presented 101 Squadron with its first Standard, in a joint ceremony with 18 Squadron at RAF Finningley.
101 Squadron has a rich heritage, born of the dedication resilience and sacrifice of the men and women who have served with and alongside the Squadron over the past 96 years. From the Western Front to the Middle East, the Falklands to Kosovo, through the Cold War and more recently in support of action over Libya and Afghanistan, the Squadron has consistently made a significant contribution to British military operations. In doing so it has demonstrated the very essence of RAF ethos and constantly lived up to the Squadron motto, Meds Agitat Molem, meaning Mind Over Matter.
This parade signifies another milestone in 101 Squadron’s history, marking the transition to the new Voyager aircraft, as 101 Squadron become the second Voyager Squadron. Wing Commander Ronnie Trasler, Commanding Officer of 101 Squadron, said,
“This fantastic new capability will see the Squadron continue its role at the forefront of RAF Air-to-Air Refueling and Air Transport operations for many years to come. For those of us who have the privilege to serve on 101 Squadron going forward, we ensure that the proud history and traditions of this unit are remembered and built on as we carry the new Standard into the next chapter of the Squadron’s life”.
Editor: Sara Chubb
RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2013