An event to commemorate the loss of airmen during the Second World War has taken place with a special visitor from Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ryan Keen, the commanding officer of 419 “Moose” Squadron, flew into Teesside Airport on Saturday morning (June 10) for the annual commemoration of the 1,266 airmen, most of whom were Canadian, who died while operating from RAF Middleton St George.
The event coincided with the anniversary of Pilot Officer Andrew Mynarski being posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his brave sacrifice.
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Lt Col Keen joined five other officers in leading the commemoration in front of the Mynarski Statue after flying in from Cold Lake, Canada.
A representative from the Canadian High Commission, and Group Captain Gareth Prendergast, the commanding officer of RAF Leeming, joined the Tees Valley Mayor and dignitaries for the ceremony.
The Middleton St George Memorial Association arranged the event.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It’s vital that we never forget the massive role our airport played as a bomber base during the Second World War, and the incredible acts of bravery and heroism of everyone located there, as well as the huge sacrifices that many made during that time.
“Hundreds gave their lives so we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. It was a real honour to be present for the ceremony.”
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The event was also attended by Darlington MP Peter Gibson.
He said: “Thousands of Canadian pilots were based in England during the war, with a number based at RAF Middleton St George, their sacrifice was pivotal in the struggle that we shared together to fight tyranny in Europe.
“My own grandfather died serving on the convoys that were ably supported by our Commonwealth partners, and it is absolutely fitting that we celebrate our ties with our Commonwealth partners.
“Pilot Officer Andrew Mynarski, gave his own life to save that of his crew member Pat Brophy, his self-sacrifice is a testament to his bravery and it is a privilege to have the opportunity to honour him by laying a wreath to commemorate his extraordinary deed.”
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