His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, Prince William, has marked a significant national milestone by attending the 85th Anniversary celebrations of RAF Valley this week.
Pictured alongside Station Commander, Station Commander Gez Currie, the Prince saluted the anniversary parade, honouring more than eight decades of continuous service at one of the United Kingdom’s most important military air stations.
The commemorative event brought together senior leaders, veterans, industry partners and members of the local community, reflecting the deep ties between the Royal Air Force and the nation it serves. Ceremonial proceedings and engagements were held across multiple locations on the base, underscoring RAF Valley’s enduring operational and training role within UK Defence.
A Personal Return for the Prince of Wales
The visit carried particular significance for the Prince, who served at RAF Valley between 2010 and 2013 as a Search and Rescue helicopter pilot. Then known as Flight Lieutenant William Wales, he flew the Westland Sea King with C Flight, 22 Squadron, conducting life-saving missions across the United Kingdom.
His duties frequently involved high-risk operations over mountainous terrain and open seas, contributing to a long-standing RAF tradition of search and rescue excellence. It was also during this period that the Prince and Catherine, Princess of Wales made their home on Anglesey, strengthening their connection to the region.
In 2023, the Prince was appointed Royal Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Valley, a role that reflects both his personal service and continued commitment to the Armed Forces. His return for the anniversary was described by officials as both nostalgic and symbolic, reinforcing the enduring bond between the Royal Family and the military.
A Legacy Forged in War and Innovation
Established in 1941 during the Second World War, RAF Valley was originally constructed as a fighter airfield to support Britain’s air defence. Its early role was critical in training pilots and sustaining operations during a period when air superiority was vital to national survival.
In the decades that followed, the station evolved into a cornerstone of advanced fast jet training. Generations of RAF pilots have passed through its runways, flying aircraft such as the Vampire, Gnat and Hawk, and more recently the Texan T1, before progressing to front-line platforms including the Eurofighter Typhoon and Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II.
RAF Valley also played a prominent role in air-sea rescue operations, particularly with Sea King helicopters, providing critical coverage across the United Kingdom’s challenging coastal and mountainous regions. The station remains associated with one of the RAF’s Mountain Rescue Teams, further highlighting its operational breadth.
Continuing a National Mission
Today, RAF Valley stands as a vital component of the UK’s defence infrastructure. As the home of No. 4 Flying Training School and No. 1 Flying Training School, it continues to deliver world-class pilot training, preparing aircrew for the demands of modern aerial operations.
The 85th Anniversary celebration not only honoured the station’s distinguished past, but also reaffirmed its role in safeguarding the future. In an era of evolving global challenges, RAF Valley remains a symbol of British resilience, professionalism and aviation excellence.
As the Prince of Wales saluted the parade, the moment captured both history and continuity, a reminder that the strength of the Royal Air Force lies not only in its technology and training, but in the people who have served, and continue to serve, with distinction.
Images: MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
