Air Forces Memorial Runnymede

The Runnymede Air Forces Memorial commemorates 20,456 Allied airmen who went missing in World War II or who have never been given an official burial. All these pilots flew from air bases in the UK and Northern and Western Europe. The engraved names of the fallen airmen and airwomen are meticulously arranged on stone walls, categorized by country and squadron

Completed in 1953 and unveiled on 17 October 1953 by Queen Elizabeth II, the memorial is a Grade II listed building in modern classical style, incorporating Portland stone for its structure. It was commissioned and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Designed by Sir Edward Maufe, it features sculptures by Vernon Hill, engraved glass and painted ceilings by John Hutton, and a gallery window inscription by poet Paul H. Scott. It was the first post-war structure to receive architectural listing for its merit. The memorial’s entrance features a grand portico, leading visitors into a cloistered courtyard. The central chapel is crowned with an astral crown, symbolizing the air forces, and the engraved glass panels by John Hutton depict scenes of flight, while the painted ceilings add artistic depth. Three stone figures by Vernon Hill represent Justice, Victory, and Courage, reinforcing the memorial’s solemn purpose. The coats of arms of Commonwealth nations are displayed on the cloister ceilings, honoring the international contributions to the war effort

The gardens surrounding the memorial are carefully designed to complement its architecture while providing a tranquil space for remembrance.

The memorial tower includes a viewing platform, allowing visitors to see the surrounding landscape such as the River Thames and Runnymede Meadow. On clear days, visitors can see London landmarks such as the London Eye and Wembley Stadium, while Windsor Castle dominates the western horizon.

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Source

• Text: TracesofWar
• Photos: David Kemp (1), WyrdLight.com (2)