RAF Reserves are supporting the delivery of important cargo to France.
On the 25th May 2024, an Atlas C Mk.1 (A400M) with personnel from No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron, based at RAF Brize Norton, embedded with movements team from 1 Air Mobility Wing, embarked on a special tasking. The team were honoured to deliver headstones for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission ahead of the 80th Anniversary Anglo-Canadian memorial service.
The significance of this tasking is deeply rooted in history. In July 1944, an RAF Halifax aircraft from 624 (Special Duties) Squadron, tasked with supplying the French resistance in the Pyrénées, tragically crashed amidst heavy fog at Pic de Douly, killing the 7 airmen on board.
Wing Commander Rich Evans, Officer Commanding No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron, said:
“This year is particularly significant, as it not only marks the 80th anniversary of the Halifax crash and D-Day, but is also the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, which played a vital role during World War II and continues to deliver essential support within the Royal Air Force today. To be able to assist the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in delivering new headstones as part of their renovation of this remote hillside cemetery, the highest in Europe, in our 100th year, only adds to our sense of pride in being part of this very special occasion.”
Wing Commander Rich Evans
Officer Commanding No. 4624 (CoO) Movements Squadron
Since 1944, the locals of Haut-Nistos have tended to the graves of the RAF Halifax crew. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission have been renovating the cemetery ahead of the upcoming memorial service, where members of No. 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron will attend to pay their respects.
Xavier Puppinck, France Area Director Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), said:
“We are profoundly privileged to soon be installing new headstones for the aircrew of 624 (Special Duties) Squadron who lost their lives at Pic de Douly in the Pyrenees when their Halifax aircraft crashed due to low cloud cover while attempting to resupply the local French Resistance. Thanks to the RAF, the new headstones will be making their way toward the Pyrenees in time for the 80th anniversary service of commemoration at the remote location. The legacy of the 624 Squadron and their brave aircrew will live on, immortalised in the hallowed stones cared for by the CWGC. Their sacrifice remains a testament to courage, duty, and the indomitable spirit of those who fought for our liberty.”
Xavier Puppinck
France Area Director CWGC
