The third shall be the first
This is a reference to the fact that No 3 Squadron, RFC, was the first to be equipped with heavier-than-air machines, a monolith, a cockatrice - approved by King George VI in September 1937. The cockatrice was chosen because in mythology it was the first creature to fly.
About
- Based at RAF Coningsby, one of two Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) stations in the UK
- The first British, Empire or Commonwealth independent military unit to operate heavier-than-air flying machines
- The Squadron badge, as approved by King George VI in September 1937, bears the annotation 'Fighter Squadron'. The current badge, on the Squadron Standard, says 'Squadron' only
- Former aircraft include the Hurricane I, Javelin FAW4 and Harrier GR1 and GR5
- Provided air defence for the London 2012 Olympics - the first time RAF fighters have been stationed in London since World War Two
History
1911 - Formed at Larkhill as No.2 (Aeroplane) Company, Air Battalion, Royal Engineers.
1912 - Renamed No.3 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps.
1935 - Deployed to Sudan during the Abyssinian crisis.
1999 - Took part in Operation ALLIED FORCE over Kosovo.
2006 - Moved to RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire.
