On Sunday 23rd April, members of the Armed Forces, the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA), veterans, dignitaries and members of the local community gathered to commemorate ANZAC Day at West Chevington cemetery to remember the 10 airmen from Australia and New Zealand who died in WWII and are buried there - the airmen came from many different bases but are buried at Chevington because RAF Acklington were responsible for recovering all RAF casualties within the county of Northumberland during WWII.
During the ceremony, the national anthems of Australia and New Zealand were played and RAF Boulmer Padre, Reverend (Squadron Leader) Clement led the gathering in prayer. Wreaths were laid at the RAF memorial with members of 242 (Cramlington), 2522 (Bedlington) ATC Squadrons and Northumbrian University Air Squadron laying a poppy cross on the grave of each of the ANZACs as their name was read out.
The Act of Remembrance concluded with a march-past of standard bearers, veterans (led by Mr Chris James) and air cadets during which the salute was taken by Air Commodore Richard Corney, OBE, the President of Newcastle & Gateshead Branch of RAFA.
Organised by the Newcastle & Gateshead Branch of the RAF Association, the event has been held for the past 15 years. Approximately 150 people attended yesterday’s ceremony and music was kindly provided by the Backworth Colliery Band.
