A speech by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall to present new Standard to 100 Squadron, RAF Leeming

Group Captain Innes, Group Captain Philliban, Wing Commander Squires and all the officers and airmen of RAF Leeming, 90 Signals Unit and 100 Squadron.

As the incredibly proud Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Leeming, I could not be more honoured to be here on this historic occasion to present 100 Squadron with their new standard – the last being presented in 1984.

Formed in 1917, the Squadron became operational within days of its formation with its first raids against the airfields of Baron von Richtofen. The Red Baron himself described the attacks “…as a regular bit of impertinence…!” Since that time it has lived up to its proud history as the battle honours borne on its standard show. I am told that it was in 1937, whilst stationed in Malaya, that the Squadron was first granted permission to wear its official badge, bearing the skull and crossbones and unique Malayan Motto, “Never Stir Up a Hornet’s Nest”; however, it did not actually receive its first standard until 1955. Since that time, it has been disbanded and re-formed twice for varying important roles: flying the Victor Bomber with Bomber Command; flying the Canberra aircraft in the target-towing role; and now flying Hawks carrying out the vital role, as an aggressor and training force, in support of front line operations.

So, it is with great personal pride that I am able to present 100 Squadron with its third Standard at Royal Air Force Leeming today…

I am only too well aware that as we stand here in Yorkshire on this very special occasion, many of you will be thinking of your friends and colleagues from Leeming who are currently deployed in Afghanistan. My thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with them all and their families.

Please protect this Standard and ensure you uphold the ethos and heritage of your predecessors…