Recently, Service Personnel from RAF Boulmer attended a Force Development event to the Tower of London. The team spent multiple days researching the history of the RAF, and the development and evolvement of Air Power. They also visited famous sites in London, concluding their trip at, The Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London.
The Ceremony of the Keys is a prestige, ancient ritual, said to be the oldest extant military ceremony in the world (740 years) and is held at 09:52 every evening by the Chief Yeoman Warder. This has never been cancelled, only delayed on a single occasion due to enemy action in WWII.
Performed with members of the armed forces who guard the Tower, RAF Boulmer and over 60 personnel from across all RAF stations had the opportunity to witness Ex Trade Group 19 Chief Yeoman Warder, Emma Rousell, lock numerous gates across the Tower with His Majesty, ‘King Charles’s Keys.’
The event, organised by Corporal Malone, included visits to the Imperial War Museum, Bomber Memorial and the RAF Museum. While visiting the RAF Museum, Flying Officer Insall completed a personal stand about her great uncle, Flight Commander Gilbert Insall (Victoria Cross, Military Cross), whose medals are proudly displayed there.
Of the Force Development event, Flying Officer Insall said:
This was a great event to get involved in, widening our understanding of the RAF and the broader history of the military, as well as providing an opportunity for all to practise public speaking. Getting access to the Ceremony of the Keys and spending time in their bar afterwards was such a unique experience and cemented the importance of keeping the history alive.
The event was considered a success by all whom attended and there is hope there are more opportunities for RAF Boulmer personnel to attend in the future.
