RAF Brize Norton honours crew 20 years on from plane tragedy in Iraq
Hercules XV179 was shot down over Iraq 20 years ago
RAF Brize Norton has been remembering and honouring the 10 military personnel who tragically died when their plane was shot down over Iraq 20 years ago with a memorial service.
Hercules XV179 was hit by enemy fire on 30 January 2005 whilst it was on a routine flight from Iraq’s capital Baghdad to Balad, killing all 10 of those on board.
A memorial has taken place outside the former 47 Squadron building at RAF Brize Norton.
Former ground engineer, Martin Easey, knew five of those who died, he said: “It’s quiet reflection at the moment and you do wonder what if they were still here.”
You can watch our interview with Mr Easey here:
"Their ultimate sacrifice continues to be thought of"
Around 100 RAF personnel, colleagues, and friends gathered for the service.
Warrant Officer, Tug Wilson said: “The ultimate feeling is of remembrance – thinking about those people and the job that they were doing and done umpteenth time before, that nobody expected or wanted it to happen.”
He added: “There’s many people that are here today that knew them, worked with them and keep on remembering them – letting close members of family and friends know that continues.
“Members of the Royal Air Force that gave their ultimate sacrifice continues to be thought of.”
Memorial services are also taking place in Lyneham, Wiltshire where the plane was based and in Australia, where one member of the crew was from.