An impressive display of aircraft took to the skies today as RAF Lossiemouth celebrated the hard work of all
who work on this busy operational base and the families that support them.
Over 4000 service personnel and their families gathered at the station for Lossie Fest, enjoying fun packed
day of entertainment, which cumulated in an exciting display of Royal Air Force aircraft, including the world-
famous Red Arrows.
The event attracted a large audience of visitors to the area to watch the aircraft as they performed above the
station.
RAF Lossiemouth’s own Typhoons and a P8-A Poseidon aircraft were joined by the Falcons Parachute
Display Team and the Typhoon Display Team. A rare role demonstration by an F-35 Lightning II was also on
the agenda as a two-hour programme of air displays wowed onlookers on Station and outside.
Among those attending the event was 99-year-old Forres Second World War veteran Mr Bill Shepherd.
A tailgunner on Lancaster pathfinder missions, he was delighted to see the F-35 Lightning - the modern
aircraft that can most closely performs the same role, for the first time.
Bill also took the salute from the RAF Parachute Display Team – the Falcons – alongside the Station
Commander, Group Captain Jim Lee, and the youngest serving member of personnel on station, Air
Specialist 1 Charlie Cornes.
Bill was delighted with the invite to attend the special day. He said:
“I’ve had such a wonderful day and it has been nice to see how much the station has grown
since I was here during the war.
“This is a day I’ll never forget.”
Station families enjoyed all the fun of the fair, including a display of static aircraft provided by Morayvia, a
funfair and land train. There was also entertainment from RAF Lossiemouth Pipes and Drums, Savage Skills
Motorbike Display Team, RAF Lossiemouth Voluntary Band, and Lossiemouth Military Wives Choir.
Lossie Fest is organised by a voluntary committee of service personnel and funded by sponsors.
Lossiemouth Station Commander, Group Captain Jim Lee, said:
"RAF Lossiemouth defends the seas and skies 24/7 but this wouldn't be possible without our families
who make a huge contribution to the life of our station. They’re often separated for long periods as
our servicemen and women are deployed. Lossie Fest is our way of thanking them and it was great to see so many of them here for a truly special day."
"We'd also like to thank our neighbours in the local community. We know we can be a bit noisy
but we really appreciate the good will that is consistently shown to us as we continue to conduct our vital
flying training and operations that help keep the United Kingdom safe"
