Although the Royal Air Force dates from 1918, it was almost seventy years before a society devoted to examining the history of the Service emerged. That is not to say that the RAF’s history was being neglected. Ever since it was opened in 1972, the RAF Museum has exhibited a splendid collection of preserved airframes and artefacts as well as maintaining an ever-expanding archive. The official record is ably chronicled by the staff of the Air Historical Branch (AHB) and their efforts are amplified by painstakingly detailed research into practically every aspect of the RAF’s composition, operations and equipment published by a variety of enthusiasts’ organisations, not to mention the constant flow of books dedicated to particular aeroplane types, the histories of specific units, the careers of individuals and so on.

Nevertheless, while there was clearly no shortage of information, there was no public institution that was specifically dedicated to studying the history of the Service or which provided a forum at which it could be discussed. The Royal Air Force Historical Society was established in 1986 to fill this gap. It has charitable status and, although it is entirely self-financing, it has, from the outset, had the blessing of the Air Force Board.

The society aims to mount three annual events, two seminars, usually hosted by the RAF Museum, and an AGM. Each seminar explores a specific theme and takes the form of papers read by interested parties, ranging from academic historians to veterans recalling their personal experiences. It is some indication of the calibre of speakers that the society can attract that participants have included serving and former Chiefs of the Air Staff, Lord Healey, Sir Michael Quinlan, Dr Alfred Price, Air Cdre Henry Probert (a former Head of the AHB) and Prof Peter Hennessy.

For more information on the Society, including its events, activities and how to join, please visit The RAF Historical Society website