News
The Prince of Wales visits No.7 Squadron at RAF Odiham
3rd May 2004
Air Marshal The Prince of Wales has presented a new standard to a Royal Air Force squadron which has recently seen active service in Iraq.
The Prince visited No.7 Squadron at its base in RAF Odiham, Hampshire.
The new standard presented by The Prince shows the squadron's battle honours dating back to World War I.
Dressed in uniform, His Royal Highness then took the salute as members of the squadron marched past.
In an address to the unit and families, The Prince said he was delighted to present the squadron with its new standard at a time it was celebrating its 90th anniversary.
His Royal Highness told the audience that the squadron had a remarkable history, especially in the Second World War when it was the pathfinder squadron flying Lancaster bombers.
The Prince also paid tribute to the squadron‘s recent operations in Afghanistan, Sierra Leone and more recently Iraq.
His Royal Highness said the operations were a reflection of “the uncertainty of the world in which we now live”.
“It's reassuring to see the courage, determination and unswerving dedication of the squadron,” said The Prince.
His Royal Highness also thanked the families of the members of the squadron.
“I give my heartfelt thanks, for what it is worth, for your stalwart support to the squadron based here at this exceptional time.”
Later, The Prince toured aircraft based with the squadron and spoke to those working in the unit.
His Royal Highness also chatted to members of the families before leaving for a private lunch in the officers' mess.
The Prince learned to fly with the RAF in the early 1970s before joining the Royal Navy.