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Header main image: ‘Beyond Praise’ – Bazalgette’s blazing Lancaster ND811, ‘F2-T’, with only one engine still running, skims the village of Senantes, France, before crashing on 4th August 1944. (Artwork: Len Krenzler)

Eighty years ago this month, in August 1944, an incredible and selfless act of supreme gallantry by Lancaster Pathfinder pilot Squadron Leader Ian Willoughby “Baz” Bazalgette resulted in the subsequent award to him of a posthumous Victoria Cross (VC).

Header image: BBMF Spitfire Mk XVI TE311 outside the BBMF hangar with its new tribute markings on its starboard side. (Photo: Andy Preece)

Many readers will have seen the news on social media that BBMF Spitfire Mk XVI TE311 has had new code letters painted on its starboard side as a special tribute to Squadron Leader Mark Long, who tragically lost his life on 25th May when Spitfire Mk IX MK356 crashed shortly after take-off from RAF Coningsby.

Join the Memorial Flight Official Club and receive a free “REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT” keyring (RRP £5)!