Wb Benson families day 1808

AN annual Families Day event was held at RAF Benson last Thursday, in a show of “celebration and gratitude” for families of service personnel.

Around 3,500 guests attended this year’s event to enjoy air experience flights with Chinook crews, children’s activities, aircraft and motor vehicle displays and stalls.

Families were invited to question the crews of the station’s Chinook force during a tour of the helicopter, explore inside a tank and enjoy live entertainment from bands and DJs.

Held on the eve of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, the event marked the anniversary with a display of Second World War-era vehicles and aircraft.

The featured aircraft included a Lancaster, a Spitfire, a P-51 Mustang and two Harvard training aircraft.

The crowd also enjoyed displays by the Chinook role demonstration team and the RAF Falcons, the UK’s premier military parachute display team based at RAF Brize Norton.

Event lead Squadron Leader Elliot said: “RAF Benson extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended and helped make the day such a resounding success especially to the committee who have dedicated their time over the last six months to put on this event.”