RAF Chapel

The RAF Chapel is a special place inside the eastern end of the Westminster Abbey, in the Lady Chapel built by King Henry VII. This chapel honors the brave men of the Royal Air Force who lost their lives during the Battle of Britain in the summer and fall of 1940.

During the Battle of Britain, the Royal Air Force worked hard to protect the United Kingdom from enemy airplanes. Many pilots and air crew were very brave, and the RAF Chapel remembers those who did not survive.

This chapel stands as a reminder of their bravery, and it is a place where people can go to think of them and show respect. It is different from St. Clement Danes, which is the main church for the RAF elsewhere in London.

History

The RAF Chapel was once the burial place of Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell in 1658. After the Stuart Restoration, his remains were moved.

During the Battle of Britain in 1940, the chapel was damaged by bombs. Its beautiful windows were broken, and a hole in the stonework was left as a reminder and covered with glass.

In 1943, people suggested creating a memorial for the pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain. Leaders such as Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Trenchard and Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding helped gather support and funds. A special stained glass window was made to honor these heroes and was unveiled by King George VI in 1947.

The chapel keeps a special list with the names of pilots who lost their lives during the Battle of Britain. Each year, veterans and their families gather there for a quiet service before a larger celebration on Battle of Britain Sunday.

Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication

Each year, after September 15, a special service is held at Westminster Abbey to honor the people who fought in the Battle of Britain. This tradition began in 1943 and has continued every year since. During the service, a special list of names and a historic flag are carried through the abbey. The service is for invited guests only, but people can ask to attend by writing to a special office at RAF Northolt.