From earliest times war flags and banners have been closely connected with the religious life of the country whether pagan or Christian.

As an embodiment of the history, traditions and ideals of the people, the symbols of the Armed Forces always have been regarded with respect and veneration, and even in pre-Christian days they were usually set on one side and consecrated in the name of a god. In Christian days, as early as 1095, a reference is made to a similar religious ceremony and because they have this religious significance they have become not only an outward sign of unity but also a symbol of fellowship with God. It follows that when colours or standards are presented, the act of consecration is one of the most important elements of the presentation ceremony.

A Queen’s Colour is awarded by the Sovereign, in recognition of Service achievement, and is presented personally by the Monarch or by a personage nominated to act on the Sovereign’s behalf. A Squadron Standard is awarded by order of the Sovereign to operational Squadrons qualifying in one of the following respects: the completion of 25 years of service or having earned the Sovereign’s appreciation for especially outstanding operations.

Up to eight battle honours may appear on the standard. Colours or standards due for replacement, through age or wear, or on the disbandment of a Squadron, are laid up on Church, for no more fitting place could be found wherein to deposit such an emblem of service than the House of God, where praise, prayer and dedication are wont to be made.

List of Colours and Standards

(figures indicate the number of the Squadron and the location of its place of disbandment):

Seen left of Altar

Queen’s Colour RAF Regiment

Queen’s Colour Near East Air Force

39 Sqn (PRU) Marham

21 Andover

208 Lossiemouth

26 Wyton

17 Bruggen

20 Bruggen

103 Tengah

3 Gutersloh

224 Gibraltar

213 Bruggen

80 Bruggen

Seen from right when facing Organ

RAFA Standard

WAAF Standard

Air Crew Association

ATC Standard

25 London

ATC Standard

8 Khormaksar

37 Khormaksar

152 Moharraq

601 North Weald

604 North Weald

73 Akrotiri

249 Akrotiri

38 Hal Far

Danish Flag

Seen right of Altar

Queen’s Colour United Kingdom

Queen’s Colour Far East Air Force

32 Northolt

64 Tengah

19 Wildenrath

56 Wattisham

81 Tengah

31 Laarbruch

60 Wildenrath

14 Bruggen

110 Changi

52 Changi

66 Seletar

34 Seletar