Update on the FAA Memorial at the NMA 

Repairs: Paddy Clark (FAAOA) attended the last meeting of the FNF and gave a comprehensive brief on the completion of repairs to the frost-damage, and for detailing the proposals for the placement of logos and crests.  It has been decided to monitor the paintwork, which is ‘ageing’ as opposed to looking tatty.  Currently finance for the day-to-day upkeep of the memorial is not considered an issue, but this will continue to be monitored over the coming years.  

Logos and crests: A proposal for the placement of logos and crests was discussed, and a general plan for uniformity of design agreed in principle involving the placing of sandstone ‘paving’ stones separate from, but surrounding the memorial, with association logos and squadron crests sand-blasted on to individual stones.  This was closest to plan ‘B’ from the original 3 options and was agreed by the majority because it was cost-effective (requiring sandstone rather than expensive Portland stone), offered the greatest uniformity, excellent longevity, minimal maintenance, and the largest number of logos/crests to be placed (up to 78 initially, with room for expansion in the future).  Initial ground-works will need to be completed and blank sandstones placed.  The stones will then be removed by associations /squadrons for their specific logo/crest to be sandblasted on to before being formally ‘placed’.  Bronze plaques were discussed but considered too expensive due to each having to be individually cast.  

Funding for the ground-works needs to be found (cost approximately £8000) and, if all associations agree to assist, will be in the region of £750-£1000 per association.  Although it is a fairly large cost to bear it must be remembered that it is a memorial for the entire FAA that will last for many generations, and will be a great legacy to the generosity of the associations of the Federation.  Association representatives agreed to discuss this with their members at the first available opportunity, and to let the Secretary know the outcome and amount of funds willing to be added to the ‘pot’, in order that the ground-works can be started as soon as possible.  The FAAOA has generously agreed that once it is apparent that funds will be forthcoming from other associations it will underwrite the initial cost in order that work can begin – hopefully before the end of 2010.  Each sandstone block will then cost approximately £200 per association/squadron for (in due course) removal, sandblasting with logo/crest and final placement. We intend to raise this money from the raffle at our 2011 reunion but of course anyone who cannot make the reunion is welcome to send a donation to the Treasurer. 

The FAABA also will be launching an appeal for donations for the ground works in 2011, but we are also looking at the viability of holding a fund raising charity dinner at Yeovilton in 2011 which will be an open invite to any serving and ex FAA personnel. We have two ideas, one being the WO & SR Mess the other a dinner under Concorde at the FAA Museum.  Any feedback on support for either proposal most welcome. (see other article further down this page)