BATTLE OF BRITAIN ‘LACE’
Hobart’s defence community has paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during the Battle of Britain.
This annual event, held over the weekend of 13 to 15 September 2024 and organised by the Tasmania Division of the RAAF Association, marks 35 years of honouring the pivotal aerial battles of September 1940.
The commemorations were led by Wing Commander Jenny Robertson, RAAFA Tasmania State President, alongside National Air Force Association Board Member Air Commodore Doug Chipman (Ret), chair of the Project Committee. Special guests included Her Excellency the Hon Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, and Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, Chief of Air Force, who delivered a heartfelt address at the Wreath Laying Ceremony on Sunday. Air Force Association National Board Member Air Commodore James Badgery, alongside other National Board Members, were also in attendance.
Key events included a Memorial Church Service at St David’s Cathedral and a formal Dining-In Night at Elwick Function Centre, where Air Commodore James Badgery proposed a toast to “The Few”. The weekend concluded with a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Hobart Cenotaph, followed by a BBQ luncheon at the RAAF Memorial Centre, providing a fitting close to the commemorations.
The event also welcomed 104-year-old FLTLT Brian Winspear AM, a distinguished World War II veteran, adding a living connection to the history being remembered.
Imagery courtesy of BRIG Jim Campbell (Ret)
