The Douglas DC3 Dakota, has since Arnhem, been the emblem of Air Despatch. Air Despatch units have proudly worn the Dakota flash as a sign of their work wherever they have been in the world. Not for Despatches was the Div sign.
A Dakota aircraft has been purchased to stand as a memorial to Despatchers who have lost their lives in the service of their country. The Dakota is in a place of honour outside 47 AD Sqn RLC at RAF Station Lyneham. This aircraft did not fly at Arnhem, but did sterling service during 'Operation Dynamo', otherwise known as the Berlin Airlift. In its later years, it flew with the nostalgia airline, Air Atlantique.
The inauguration of the Dakota Memorial took place on 21st June 2002, and the ceremony was performed by Major General M.S. White, CB, CBE, DL.
Major Trevor Prior, Major (Retd) Alan Batty,
Mrs Wendy Batty & Maj. Gen.
M.S. White
LEFT: Alan and Wendy Batty
RIGHT: Visitors boarding the Dakota