415 Squadron  Association

From 9–10 May 2025, a three-person contingent—Capt Darren Kirk and Capt Robert Laniel of 415 Squadron, and Capt Mike Austin (formerly 415 Squadron)—travelled from RAF Lossiemouth to Yorkshire to participate in a series of events commemorating the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Second World War service at RAF East Moor.

The two-day visit began Friday morning with a self-guided tour of the Commonwealth War Graves at Stonefall Cemetery in Harrogate. The rows of headstones, many marking the graves of young men in their late teens and early twenties, served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made by so many. Two notable 415 Squadron members are laid to rest at Stonefall: Wing Commander John McNeill, DFC, and Squadron Leader Brian Edmund Wilmot.

The group then proceeded to Sutton Park, a historic estate once used as an officers’ mess during the war. By kind permission of Mr Robert Sheffield, the contingent toured the house and enjoyed lunch in the hall—one of several opportunities to connect with the local community. That afternoon, the group visited a nearby primary school, where they gave a talk on the RCAF’s role during the war and its enduring legacy. The students shared their own research on Canada and were excited to receive RCAF stickers from the visitors.

On Saturday, dressed in 1A DEUs with medals, the contingent was hosted for lunch by Mr Anthony Prowde, a Parish Councillor in Sutton-on-the-Forest, who also generously provided transportation for the day’s events. The gathering at his home offered an opportunity to meet Wing Commander Ted Edwards of RAF Leeming, Rev Steve Whiting, and other RAF veterans and supporters of the memorial.

At 14:30, the East Moor Memorial Service began at "The Pound," where the memorial stands. Capt Kirk delivered the address of welcome, speaking on the RCAF’s role in the Second World War and current cooperation with the RAF, including Canadian aircrew now training on the P-8 Poseidon in preparation for Canada’s own P-8 fleet. His remarks emphasized the continued strength of allied relationships.

Rev Steve Whiting then led reflections and prayers. Flight Lieutenant Alan Dolding (Ret’d) read The Fallen by Laurence Binyon (1914), followed by the Act of Remembrance led by Squadron Leader Henry Morgan (Ret’d). The Last Post was sounded, a moment of silence observed, and Reveille performed by bugler Rev David Senior.

Wreaths and flowers were then laid: Capt Kirk laid the wreath on behalf of the RCAF, Capt Austin laid flowers for 415 Squadron, and Capt Laniel laid flowers for 429 Squadron. Mr Robert Sheffield laid a wreath on behalf of the local community, followed by tributes from Wing Commander Edwards (RAF Leeming), and a local Brownie (1st Galtres Sutton and Huby). Lead piper Jim Sharpe provided musical accompaniment throughout. Mr Sheffield offered closing remarks on behalf of Sutton-on-the-Forest Parish Council, and the service concluded with the playing of the Canadian and British national anthems.

The weather was kind and the turnout—several dozen attendees—reflected the enduring respect held for the RCAF by the local community. The event was once again supported by the Yorkshire Countrywomen’s Association, who hosted afternoon tea following the service.

The day concluded with visits to a Halifax crash memorial near Brafferton and Helperby, and a tour of the restored RAF Tholthorpe control tower, now a private residence. RAF Tholthorpe was where 434 Sqn was based at the end of the second world war, which is Capt Mike Austins current sponsor unit.

This trip was a great success thanks to the coordination and support of LCol Leblanc, Maj Macsween, Capt Kirk, and our local host Anthony Prowde. Their efforts ensured that the visit was both meaningful and memorable, continuing the proud legacy of remembrance shared between the RCAF and the community of Sutton-on-the-Forest.

415 Squadron Attends East Moor Memorial Service

By Capt Mike Austin, Edited by Darren Kirk