Obituary – Sir Michael Oswald GCVO

The death has been announced of Sir Michael Oswald GCVO aged 86. Sir Michael was appointed Honorary Air Commodore (HAC) of 2620 (County of Norfolk) Squadron in 2001. Extremely proud of his appointment as an HAC, he was an enthusiastic supporter of the Sqn and very popular amongst its personnel. Sir Michael served as HAC until 2016. In civilian life Sir Michael was the National Hunt Racing Adviser to the Queen and had served in that role since 2003. Before that, he was racing manager to Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother from 1970 to 2002.

A Memorial Service for Sir Michael was held at St Clement Danes Church on 25th April 2022. Amongst the many attendees were family and friends, members of the Royal Family and representatives from the services including the Commandant General of the RAuxAF, AVM Ranald Monro, and, from the RAuxAF Foundation, Gp Capt Richard Mighall, Gp Capt Gary Bunkell and WO Shobha Earl.

HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

The RAuxAF Foundation Trustees were greatly saddened to receive the news that HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh had died at Windsor Castle on 9th April. Prince Philip had had a long association with the RAuxAF beginning in 1952, when he became Honorary Air Commodore of 601 (County of London) Sqn. He took a keen and active interest in the Sqn’s activities until its disbandment in 1957, at which point, he graciously accepted the invitation to become the Sqn Association’s Patron – an appointment which he held for many years.
Throughout his time as Prince Consort, Prince Philip attended numerous RAuxAF events, often with the Queen, and he will be fondly remembered by all ranks for his encouragement, warmth and humour.
The Foundation has sent a letter of condolence to Her Majesty