Annual Battle of Britain tribute in Boston brings three firsts for RAF personnel

Personnel from RAF Coningsby paraded through Boston yesterday (Sunday, September 20) for the annual commemoration.

The station reported that the event marked significant firsts for three of its number.

For Lincolnshire-born Flying Officer Tom Bone, the parade marked his first experience commanding a public parade, since commissioning from the RAF College Cranwell in October 2025. He is now serving in his first commissioned appointment as Station Adjutant at RAF Coningsby.

As Parade Commander, Flying Officer Bone was responsible for commanding the contingent throughout the event and escorting dignitaries during the formal inspection. The role required weeks of preparation and a high level of concentration on the day.

He said: “Commanding a parade like this brings a real sense of responsibility. You’re representing the Royal Air Force, the station and everyone marching alongside you, and it was important to us all to do justice to what the day means for the people of Boston.”

This year's parade was also the first Battle of Britain commemoration for Warrant Officer Billy Hammond since assuming the appointment of Station Warrant Officer in March 2026. In addition to maintaining discipline, standards and ethos across the station, he is responsible for the organisation and delivery of RAF Coningsby’s ceremonial commitments in Boston.

Speaking after the event, he said: “Your first parade is always a significant moment, and you rely on your training and the people around you. It’s meant a great deal to work alongside the many agencies involved, and to help mark the day in a way that does it justice.”

Preparations for the parade took place throughout the preceding week, with personnel conducting drill rehearsals under the guidance of Warrant Officer Lee Hargreaves from RAF Coningsby’s Force Protection Training Flight. Sunday’s parade was his first Battle of Britain commemoration in Boston as Parade Warrant Officer.

Group Captain Andy Hampshire, Station Commander RAF Coningsby, said: “Yesterday’s parade was marked by several personal milestones for members of our team, but the real significance of the occasion lay in what we were there to remember.

“As one generation passes its legacy to the next, it is fitting that our newer personnel are entrusted with these responsibilities. Their professionalism ensured that we honoured those who secured our nation’s freedom, and I could not be prouder of their contribution.”