70 years ago.

[Jock Scot]

There is a story, true I think, about Lord Trenchard "the Father of the RAF" who was at a Passing out Parade for newly qualified pilots in Canada in 1940. As he passed down the ranks he stopped and asked one young pilot "Where do you come from?". "Texas sir" was the reply. Knowing the political niceties and pitfalls of the time, Trenchard gave the young man a wink and said "Ah yes Texas, one of our more far-flung outposts I believe, thank you".

Britain were and still are, grateful for the many pilots from all over the world who stepped up to fill the ranks in 1939. They all, like the Americans, knew full well that it was not "their" war. Sadly many paid the ultimate price.