It’s been 72 years since the single largest air battle in history – one where Canadians played a pivotal role in - and on Sunday their bravery was honoured in ceremonies across the country including here in Edmonton.
Edmontonians gathered at the Alberta Aviation Museum to take part in celebrating the anniversary of the Battle of Britain. The battle marked the first major defeat of the Nazi forces during the Second World War.
“If you can imagine a time when all that stood between Europe being completely occupied by the Nazi forces, and freedom, it was 700 fighter airplanes,” said Tom Hinderks with the Alberta Aviation Museum.
“They were facing a force of between 2,700 and 3,000 enemy aircrafts. It was a time of a lot of bravery. (They were) outnumbered but they managed to defend Britain which allowed for the eventual re-invasion of Europe with D-Day and the freedom of Europe.”
Many of the pilots involved in the Battle of Britain were in their early 20s. The allied airmen involved in the battle are often referred to as “The Few.”
“The Commonwealth had fewer pilots and fewer aircraft than their formidable foe,” said Defence Minister Peter Mackay in a statement issued Sunday.
“That did not stop them. They ramped up their efforts to train as many pilots as possible and switched aircraft production into high gear, with factories employing men and women across Canada.”
A military-style parade was held at the museum presented by the 700 Wing Air Force Association of Canada.
“It’s a celebration,” Hinderks said. “It’s a time to celebrate the accomplishments of these young people. England was a target. Everything was being hit. They stood their ground and that allowed all of the other things to happen that led to Europe being freed.”
More than 100 Canadian pilots flew and 23 died in the Battle of Britain.
“Their sacrifice continues to be remembered to this very day,” MacKay said.
Celebrations and memorial services were held across the country Sunday.
