Friday, 8 January 2016

Avro Lancaster 75th Anniversary

Although it was by no means the only machine involved, the iconic image of the ‘Lanc’ is now almost synonymous with the heroism and sacrifice of RAF Bomber Command during World War Two. Although its task was unavoidably grim, its contribution towards final Allied victory overshadowed that of any other British bomber.

Lancaster crews, alongside those flying the Handley Page Halifax and to a lesser extent, the Short Stirling, bore the brunt of the RAF's night bombing campaign. The Lancaster struck hard at the enemy, its long range sorties repeatedly targeting Germany's vital industrial heartland. The effect was to severely impair the opposition's ability to wage war and to crush the morale of those fighting it.

The loss of life, though terrible for those subjected to its attacks, was also severe among the crews. The superb memorial to the 'bomber boys' at London's Green Park is testimony to that, and Avro Lancaster B.I PA474 – the sole flying example in Europe – is operated by the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight as a 'living' tribute to the many who did not survive.