Battle remembered

The Battle of Britain helped turn the tide of the Second World War.

On Sunday veterans and active military members gathered at the air service memorial at Thunder Bay International Airport to commemorate the battle, which began in July 1940 and played out over the next three months.

The first campaign in military history to be completely fought in the air, the Battle of Britain began when German fighters started bombing British shipping centres and coastal ports, soon shifting to military and political targets.

The Allies struck back, ultimately ending German hopes of air superiority in the warm, but the victory came at a cost.

Among the 1,495 dead were 47 Canadians.

Capt. Jeff Barabash of the 66th Challenger Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Cadets, said remembering those who sacrificed their lives 73 years ago is the least today’s generation can do to recognize their contribution to the war effort.

“Their bravery basically allowed Britain to stay in the war and be a formidable force against the Nazis in World War Two,” Barabash said.

“I think it’s important to remember historically where we come from, as far as what we have fought for and what we have been through to enjoy the freedoms we have in the world today.”

The ceremony, which got under way just before 1 p.m., included a small procession,  a recital of the Airman’s Prayer, a gun salute to the fallen, the playing of the Airman’s Hymn and the laying of wreaths by veterans and other dignitaries.