St Clement Danes holds
RAF Formation Service
A service to commemorate the 107th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Air Force was held at St Clement Danes church on Sunday 13th April 2025.
The RAF was formed on 1st April 1918 following the merger of the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service. St Clement Danes Church in Central London plays a key part in history as the Central Church of the RAF. As well as holding the Books of Remembrance the church also contains over a thousand slate squadron and unit badges in the floor. Many Colours and squadron Standards are laid up in the church. The church's part in the RAF's history is demonstrated most clearly by its annual Founder's Day service commemorating the RAF's formation and rich subsequent history, as well as paying tribute to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice over the years.
Music was performed by the Band of the RAF Regiment conducted by Wing Commander Richard Murray, Principal Director of Music (RAF), and the choir of St Clement Danes led by the assistant Director of Music Mr Newsome-Hubbard.
The service was led by the Reverend Mark Perry Resident Chaplain of St Clement Danes Church and the sermon was delivered by the Chaplain-in-Chief and Archdeacon for the Royal Air Force the Venerable Dr Giles Legood. The prayers were led by the Reverend Ashley Mitchell (Senior Chaplain RAF Halton) and the Reverend Alasdair Nicoll Deputy Chaplain-in-Chief (Operations).
