THIS week we remember the bravery of the Battle of Britain pilots who took to our skies in defence of the nation, night after night during the summer of 1940.

Battle of Britain Day on September 15 is a moment to pause and reflect not only on their sacrifice but on the sacrifice of all who have served our country.

It is important to remember the legacy left by all those pilots who gave their lives for our today and to remember that whilst we may not face the same, visible, our selfless servicemen and women continue to put their lives on the line for us today.

This year, Battle of Britain Day coincides with Remember a Charity Week, a campaign to raise awareness of the impact a gift in a will can make to charities. For the RAF Benevolent Fund, gifts in wills make up almost 60% of our total donated income. Income which has been spent over the past 100 years supporting the RAF Family, serving and retired personnel and their families.

People like the families of those killed in action during the Battle of Britain in the Second World War, ensuring the pilots’ children received the best possible start in life despite their tragic loss; or providing for RAF veterans so that they may live out their retirement in comfort and dignity.

As the nation marked the Royal Air Force’s centenary this summer, here at the Fund, we celebrated almost 100 years of support for the RAF Family; we have stood side by side with those who gave their all, since 1919. However, it is only because of the support of incredible donors who leave a legacy to support RAF and ex RAF personnel in need that we are able to continue to do that.

Thank you.

Air Vice-Marshal David Murray

Chief executive, RAF Benevolent Fund