21 Squadron RAF 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. 21 Squadron Royal Flying Corps was formed at Netheravon on 23 July 1915, equipped with the Royal Aircraft Factory R. E.7. Commanded by General Trenchard, the commander of the Royal Flying Corps in France, who described No. 21 as "the best artillery squadron in France". The Squadron was disbanded after the war but reformed in 1935 whilst at the outbreak of the Second World War, the squadron was operating the Blenheim IV and in May 1940 served during the 'challenging' Battle of France. They were subsequently equipped with the Ventura, but this proved unsuitable in its combat role, but was in turn superseded by the DH Mosquito in 1943. The squadron is remembered for the notable attack on Gestapo headquarters at Aarhus in Denmark on 31st October 1944 and in Operation Carthage, against Gestapo headquarters in Copenhagen on 21st March 1945. Post war 21 operated the Canberra but was finally disbanded in the defence cuts of 1976.

Our crest is a fine period example, is surmounted by a gilt Kings Crown, with the badge itself appearing to be hand painted and protected behind a Perspex panel, with the Latin motto below, reading "Viribus Vincimus" meaning "By strength we conquer". The crest features a golden hand, erased at the wrist, holding a dumb-bell. The dumbbell was used as a badge by the squadron in 1917 and symbolises strength. It is attached to an oak hardwood shield that incorporates a recessed brass wall hanger to the back. It measures an impressive 10" x 7" (25 cm x 17.5 cm) and other than minor age-related wear and is in remarkably good original condition. A lovely example and a reminder of a hugely important squadron, that served with distinction in both world wars and beyond.