Serving soldiers, veterans and bereaved families came together in Staffordshire this month for the Army Air Corps’ first dedicated Corps Commemorative Service. The event marks the Corps’ 69th year and is set to become an annual tradition, remembering everyone who lost their life while serving with it.
A new tradition for the Corps
The service was held at the Army Air Corps Memorial within the National Memorial Arboretum, the UK’s year-round centre for remembrance. It honoured personnel who died while serving with the Army Air Corps and the regiments that came before it, while also giving the Corps a chance to reflect on everything it has achieved since it was formed in 1957.
Senior figures from across the Corps attended, including its Colonel Commandant, Major General Mike Keating CBE, and Deputy Colonel Commandant, Major General James Illingworth OBE. Alongside them stood serving personnel of all ranks, veterans who had travelled to take part, and the families and friends of those being remembered.
The plan is for the service to take place every year from now on. With the Army Air Corps reaching its 70th anniversary in 2027, this first gathering lays the foundation for a lasting moment in the Corps calendar: one that belongs to past and present members alike.
Ceremony, reflection and a flypast
Before the service began, the Corps’ Colours were formally presented to the Padre, a traditional act that set the tone for the morning. The service itself combined prayer and remembrance with a period of quiet reflection, as officers paid their respects and veterans looked on.
As the Last Post sounded across the Arboretum, officers stood and saluted. The service closed with a flypast by an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter and two Wildcat helicopters, aircraft at the heart of the Corps’ work today. For many of those watching, the sight of the helicopters overhead was a fitting link between the people being remembered and the soldiers who continue their work.
Families at the heart of the day
For bereaved families, the service offered something especially meaningful: recognition that their loved ones have not been forgotten, however many years have passed.
Among those attending were Sue Gwinnell, Jan Partridge and Mary Gwinnell, who came in memory of their brother, Mike Gwinnell. Mike was serving with the Army Air Corps when he died in an off-duty motorcycle accident in 1995. Their parents had been invited but were unable to attend, and the family also remembered Mike’s widow, Susi. Jan explained that it brings the family real comfort to know Mike is still remembered, and to see how strong the bonds within the Corps remain.
The day also clearly resonated with those currently serving. Air Trooper Oliver Bowling, of 676 Squadron, 2 Army Air Corps, said it was “pretty special” to be there, describing the event as a reflection of the close community within the Corps. Colonel Ed Butterworth ADC, Colonel Army Air Corps, said the service brings the Corps together as one family while honouring those who gave their lives.
Nearly seven decades of service
Since 1957, the Army Air Corps has played a central role in British Army operations. Its personnel have served in Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan, and more recently in support of NATO commitments across Europe.
That long history means the Corps’ veteran community spans several generations, from those who flew in its earliest years to those who have only recently left. A shared service like this one gives all of them a place to come together.
Why remembrance matters
Events like this do more than mark the past. For veterans, they offer connection, a chance to reunite with people who understand their experiences, at a time of life when isolation can become a real problem. For bereaved families, being included and remembered by the wider military family can make a lasting difference.
With Remembrance Sunday on 8 November, many veterans and families will be reflecting on those they have lost over the coming weeks. If this time of year is difficult for you, you don’t have to face it alone. Combat Stress runs a free 24-hour helpline on 0800 138 1619, and Samaritans are available any time on 116 123. You can find more support on our Get help now page.
This article is based on reporting by the British Army. Read the original article on the British Army website.
