RAF 131 'County of Kent' Squadron Plaque

Another fine plaque that formed part of a small collection we have purchased, that we understand were displayed in a now defunct service club. 131 'County of Kent' Squadron Royal Flying Corps was formed on 1 March 1918 and became a unit of the Royal Air Force, but it disbanded the same year, without becoming operational. It reformed in 1941 at RAF Ouston as a fighter unit equipped with Spitfires and then provided air defence for convoys from RAF Atcham and Llanbedr in Wales. It moved to India in October 1944. The squadron re-assembled at Amarda Road on 5 February 1945 but its Spitfires were re-allocated to the Royal Indian Air Force and the squadron was disbanded on 10 June 1945 in Kula Lumpa Malaysia.

The plaque features the squadron crest, that is surmounted by a Queens Crown. To the centre of the badge featuring a prancing horse against a red star. The squadron was equipped by a fund co-ordinated by the Association of Men of Kent and Kentish Men are symbolised by the White Horse whilst the estoile represents operations in the sky. Below is the Latin motto "Invicta" that translates to "Unconquered". The badge was approved by King George VI in May 1942. The crest is mounted on an oak shield and to the reverse is a brass wall hanger and embossed 'Made in Gt Britain'. The shield measures 7" x 5.75" (17.5 cm x 15 cm)). The plaque shows some age-related wear but remains in good original display condition.