The Duke of Gloucester Commemorates the Royal Auxiliary Air Force's 100th Anniversary at Buckingham Palace

Crowds have gathered in front of Buckingham Palace to witness a historic parade commemorating 100 years of volunteer reserve service in the RAF by the King’s Colour Squadron of the Royal Air Force and color parties from nine Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) squadrons.

The Sovereign’s Colour of the RAuxAF was proudly marched in front of The Duke of Gloucester, who serves as Honorary Air Commodore in Chief of the RAuxAF.

This parade marked the first time that the King’s Colour of the RAuxAF has been displayed at Buckingham Palace.

The new RAuxAF military march, composed by Squadron Leader Ted Sellers, Director of Music of the Band of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, was also premiered before His Royal Highness during the event.

The Royal Auxiliary Air Force, the reserve component of the RAF, consists of members who dedicate their spare time to serving the country's defense.

Its origins can be traced back to the Auxiliary Air Force (AAF) and RAF Special Reserve established in 1924 to provide trained personnel in support of the RAF's missions worldwide.

The inaugural squadron, No.

502 (Ulster), was founded in May 1925, with subsequent squadrons such as those in Glasgow, London, and Edinburgh soon following suit.

Each unit's roots are deeply tied to specific cities, counties, and regions across the UK.