RAF 23 Squadron Plaque

Another very fine plaque that formed part of a small collection we have purchased, that we understand were displayed in a now defunct service club. No. 23 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps was formed at Fort Grange, Gosport on 1 September 1915 and moved to France in March 1916 flying FE2b two-seat pusher fighters and helped to establish air superiority in the build-up to the Battle of the Somme. Subsequently they received the Spad S. VII single-seat fighters in February 1917, and then the Sopwith Dolphins that were operated until the squadron was disbanded on 31st December 1919 by which time it had 19 aces amongst its ranks. The squadron was re-formed on 1st July 1925 at RAF Henlow. Douglas Bader was a member of 23 Squadron when he crashed in a Bristol Bulldog in December 1931, whilst carrying out low level aerobatics, losing his legs in the process and he subsequently wrote in his logbook 'Bad Show'. At the outbreak of the squadron was equipped with Blenheim's and became a night-fighter squadron and 23 Squadron fought in the Battle of Britain and undertook shipping protection and intruder operations.

It was the latter role that the squadron became the forerunner in developing the tactics and ability to take the battle into the enemy's own territory. In March 1941, the squadron replaced its Blenheim's with the Douglas Havoc, which were supplemented by the Boston III. In July 1942, the squadron re-equipped with the more capable de Havilland Mosquito. In December 1942 the squadron transferred to the Mediterranean, flying from RAF Luqa on Malta, then moving to Sardinia in December 1943, which allowed targets in Southern France to be attacked. In June 1944, the squadron returned to England, operating from RAF Little Snoring in Norfolk as part of 100 Group. The squadron disbanded again in September 1945.

This period plaque is in traditional form with a resin badge featuring a large Kings Crown with the squadron crest, that features an eagle preying on a falcon, and below the Latin Sqn Motto "Sempur Aggressus" which translates to "Always on the attack". The crest is mounted on an oak shield and to the reverse is a recess hanger marked 'Beaulah's Hangstand Prov. Pat'. Other than minor age-related wear, it is in remarkably good original condition. A fine plaque to a Battle of Britain Squadron and with the added interest of the Bader connection. It measures 6.75" x 5.75" (17.5 cm x 15 cm).With the festive season approaching would be an excellent stocking filler for the aviation collector in your life.