SE Valley Times

The Arizona Aviation Historical Group (AAHG) has presented Falcon Field Airport with a replica plaque to honor the more than 2,300 Royal Air Force (RAF) cadets who trained there during World War II. The plaque is now displayed in the airport's terminal building lobby and commemorates the 27 courses held at No. 4 British Flying Training School from 1941 to 1945.

"We deeply appreciate this plaque honoring the WWII British cadets who trained at Falcon Field. It is a heartfelt tribute to their courage, resilience and fortitude when faced with the formidable challenge of defending their country and democracy," said Airport Director Corinne Nystrom.

The plaque was crafted from wood salvaged from one of the airport's original WWII hangars damaged in a storm in September 2023. Sara and Dave Hengtes of Hawkeye Engraving created it, and it partly reads, "They will rise on wings like Eagles."

Earlier this year, the original plaque was unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, England, alongside memorials for No. 1 and No. 5 British Flying Training Schools. The presentation took place on October 19 during the 2024 Falcon Field Day, which gathered descendants and one pilot aged 99 from No. 4 British Flying Training School. The event was organized by the Falcon Field Associationthe Next Generation, founded by Kathryn Masters with support from AAHG.

Mesa District 4 City Councilmember Jenn Duff attended the ceremony in England. "As a descendant of one of the pilots who stayed in Mesa after the war, I found it particularly meaningful to visit their homeland and honor their service, and their ultimate sacrifice for freedom," she said. "This plaque serves as a tribute to their sacrifice and the profound bond between Mesa and the United Kingdom."

"Falcon Field's legacy as a World War II British Royal Air Force training facility is a remarkable piece of Mesa's history that deserves to be remembered and shared," said Jocelyn Condon, vice president of AAHG. She emphasized that "the Airport, its staff, and our non-profit together play an integral part of connecting, sharing, and preserving the history of Falcon Field." Condon hopes that "the plaque will spark curiosity" among visitors about Falcon Field's role in WWII.

A remembrance ceremony is held every November at Mesa Cemetery for RAF cadets who lost their lives while training at Falcon Field. This event is organized by a committee comprising six members from various non-profits including Condon.

The Arizona Aviation Historical Group is also involved in fundraising efforts for "Patriot Skies," a documentary by Emmy award-winning producer Kelly Sallaway featuring interviews with many pilots recounting their experiences in Mesa.