Battle of Britain commemoration in Hobart
In a speech to the House of Commons in August 1940, then Prime Minister Winston Churchill defined the fierce battle being waged in the skies over Britain at the time with the immortal words: ‘Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few’.
Eighty-four years later on 15 September 2024, the Royal Australian Air Force, RAAF Association – Tasmania Division, and the Hobart community, paused to commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Britain and remember ‘the few’.
Regarded as the first military campaign fought entirely by air forces, the Battle of Britain took place between 10 July and 31 October 1940, with the Royal Air Force (RAF), supported by Australian and other allied aviators, countering relentless air attacks by the German Luftwaffe.
The battle reached a turning point on 15 September when RAF Fighter Command intercepted large formations of German bombers and fighter escorts with 300 Hurricanes and Spitfires.
Fierce aerial combat throughout the day, and strategic miscalculations by the Germans, ultimately resulted in Britain and its allies’ triumph.
At the Hobart Cenotaph, dignitaries representing former allies and foes joined RAAF personnel to lay wreaths and pay respect to those who fought, including more than 30 Australians who flew combat operations during the campaign, 10 of whom were killed in action.
Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell paid tribute to the brave men and women involved.
‘Whether in the cockpit, in the hangar, or at the plotting tables, everyone involved fought the battle with tenacity, courage and devotion to their duty,’ Air Marshal Chappell said.
‘While 84 years later we have very different aircraft and technology, at the heart of each aviator remains the same determination to serve and defend our nation.’
During the ceremony, a spectacular aerial display by the Air Force Roulettes, and flypasts of two Hawk 127s and a P-8A Poseidon, showcased Air Force’s modern capabilities.
The weekend commemoration, which also included a remembrance service at St David’s Cathedral, was organised by the RAAF Association – Tasmania Division. Ceremonial support was provided by Number 29 (City of Hobart) Squadron, the Air Force Band and Air Force Cadets.
Retired Flight Lieutenant Brian Winspear, at 104 years of age, is the last surviving aircrew member from the Pacific Theatre during World War 2, at the Battle of Britain National Commemoration service.