by 34053 wrote:Following the completion of the current, ongoing major overhaul of 'Sir Keith Park', the Locomotive will be renamed '303 Squadron'. This will be in tribute to the Polish and Czech Pilots of this Squadron who fought alongside the British Pilots, during the Battle of Britain under the control of Air Vice Marshal Keith Park and 11 Group, Fighter Command.
'303 Squadron' was one of the most successful Squadrons during the 'Battle of Britain' , shooting down 203 enemy aircraft, but suffering only 29 losses.
It is expected that 34053 will run as '303 Squadron' until September 2025, for the 85th Anniversary of 'The Battle of Britain'. It will then revert to 'Sir Keith Park'.
PW
The 303 Squadron "RENAMING CEREMONY" took place at the Spa Valley Railway on Sunday 1st September 2024. I was an Invited Guest but, unfortunately, due to other commitments, was unable to attend. However, The Southerner has produced an excellent YouTube Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgcjDak-j40
PW
