FOREWORD BY HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE LATE PRINCE BERNHARD OF THE NETHERLANDS ON THE OPENING OF THE PREVIOUS BRANCH WEB SITE

As Patron for the Netherlands, I am delighted to have this opportunity to pay tribute to the wonderful work of the Royal Air Forces Association in supporting serving and ex-Royal Air Force personnel and their dependants.

The Royal Air Forces Association was formed in 1943, with membership open to all who were serving or had served in the Royal Air Force. It seeks to help those in need and keep alive the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in service.

The Royal Air Force, from whom the Association takes its name, forged a link with the Dutch people in World War 2 when its aircraft were the only sign to our occupied country that the battle against the aggressor was continuing. Many Dutch nationals also served in the Royal Air Force.

The present day Royal Air Force has reduced considerably but the needs of the Royal Air Force family have increased - caused by the growing welfare needs of the ageing World War 2 veterans and the veterans of subsequent conflicts.

The Royal Air Forces Association is a modern organisation which utilises every opportunity to project its ideas and ideals. Just as the Air Forces of today use modern equipment, so too has the Royal Air Forces Association turned to this most modern form of communication to publicise its charitable aims and recruit new members.

I offer my good wishes for the success of this Web Site and to the Association goals.

Prince of the Netherlands

Klik Vlag Voor Hollandse Versie