415 Squadron  Association

LCol LeBlanc’s selfie stick captured the group and homeowners

RCAF Memorabilia at the local pub in Tholthorpe, Yorkshire

Surprise Visit to the former control tower (now family home) for RAF Tholthorpe

The final day before returning home consisted of attending a church service at All Hallows Church in Sutton-on-the-Forest. All Hallows church served the RAF and RCAF of East Moor and the ceiling was painted to commemorate the RAF and RCAF members who gave their lives while based from East Moor. LCol LeBlanc and Cpl Lavoie conducted readings during the service.

To state that this year's memorial was touching would be an understatement. We once again must send our gratitude to the Parish members of Sutton-on-the-Forest, veterans and citizens who choose not to forget the sacrifices made by so many RCAF and Allied personnel. We would like to send our special gratitude once again to Flt Lt Alan Dolding who after many years of facilitating this memorial, may soon move into retirement and onto the next chapter of life. Al, the RCAF Sqn’s and our associate members are truly thankful for your role over the last many years.

It is truly apparent that RCAF history throughout small villages in Yorkshire is heartly alive and local citizens remain committed to remembering the sacrifices made by so many. Their commitment to our history should be commended. Ad Metam.

While at Tholthorpe, a local resident recommended visiting a local pub where photos and memorabilia of the RCAF Sqns still hung on the walls. He also stated that the control tower of the former RAF Tholthorpe airfield was intact and converted into a family home. The group felt like they were following a bouncing ball through history and decided it was a fitting to make a surprise (unannounced) visit to the former control tower. Driving up to the residence, the group were met by current owners Paul and Rosy Walker who graciously opened their family home and pointed out historical features of the former airfield from the unobstructed view. A photo album displayed pictures of the wartime era while a plaque on the outside of the home, set between red maples displays honour to those RCAF Sqns who served there during the war.