Service to celebrate centenary of Naval Aviation takes place at St Paul's

08 May 2009

This service was held, in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall and The Duke of York, as a tribute to the courage, commitment and professionalism of everyone who has served with the Royal Air Service or Fleet Air Arm over the past 100 years. The service was an opportunity to express gratitude to all those who fly, maintain and support Naval aircraft, and especially those currently deployed on operations.

The service remembered the 6,749 Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air Arm personnel who have given their lives in 100 years of naval aviation and the traditional Royal Navy bosun's call piped the 'still' as the books of remembrance were laid on the altar in a poignant replica of a burial at sea.

After the service HRH The Prince of Wales took the Royal Salute as the Guard from HMS Illustrious, serving members of the Fleet Air Arm and veterans marched past the cathedral.