PERSONNEL from an RAF base in the region received a standing ovation when they were guests of a Premier League football club.
Members of 34 Squadron, based at RAF Leeming, in North Yorkshire, were VIP guests at Middlesbrough’s home game with Fulham last weekend.
The troops, part of 2 Force Protection Wing, RAF Leeming, were invited to attend the match in recognition of 34 Sqn RAF Regiment’s, as well as the wider contribution of the RAF to the armed forces.
Before the match, were welcomed by parading around the football pitch as players warmed up.
They then took their places around the centre circle to the soak up cheers and applause of the crowd before watching the match, which finished goalless.
Wing Commander Shaun Ryles, commanding officer of 2 Force Protection Wing, said: "We are deeply grateful to the club and its supporters for the heartfelt appreciation they showed to the guys, some of whom will be going on operations to Afghanistan, in June, for the first time."
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