Wings Appeal

Wings Appeal. The Wings Appeal is the annual fundraising campaign of the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA), a major charity dedicated to supporting serving and former members of the Royal Air Force and their families. Launched during the Second World War, it has become one of the United Kingdom's most enduring and recognizable charitable appeals. The campaign mobilizes a nationwide network of volunteers to collect donations, traditionally symbolized by the distribution of paper wings and poppies.

History

The appeal was first established in 1943 under the auspices of the Royal Air Force Association, which itself was formed through the merger of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund and the Comrades of the Royal Air Forces Association. Its creation during the height of the Battle of Britain and the wider Air warfare of World War II was a direct response to the urgent need to support aircrew and ground personnel who were suffering from the physical and psychological wounds of combat. Early fundraising efforts were often localized, with collections taking place at RAF stations and within communities heavily affected by the Blitz. Following the end of the war, the appeal evolved to address the needs of veterans from conflicts including the Korean War, the Falklands War, and more recent operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Purpose and activities

The primary purpose of the Wings Appeal is to generate vital funds for the welfare, benevolent, and support services operated by the Royal Air Forces Association. These services encompass a wide range of assistance, including financial grants, mental health support through initiatives like the RAF Association’s confidential support line, and practical aid for those facing hardship, disability, or bereavement. Funds raised contribute to maintaining care homes, such as Princess Marina House in West Sussex, and providing respite breaks. The appeal also supports the RAF Museum and funds memorials that honor the legacy of the Royal Air Force, ensuring the sacrifices of personnel from all eras are remembered.

Organization and fundraising

The campaign is orchestrated nationally by the Royal Air Forces Association but is delivered through a decentralized structure of local branches and committees across the United Kingdom and in some overseas locations. A vast volunteer force, often comprising Royal Air Force veterans and their families, conducts door-to-door collections, organizes events at Spitfire displays or air shows, and manages stalls in towns and cities. The iconic paper wings, reminiscent of the RAF roundel, are offered to donors as a symbol of their contribution. Major corporate partners and fundraising initiatives linked to historic RAF squadrons also play a significant role in the appeal's annual success.

Recognition and impact

The Wings Appeal has received longstanding recognition from senior figures within the British Armed Forces and the Royal Family, with members such as the Prince of Wales often serving as patrons or highlighting its work. Its impact is measured in the direct assistance provided to thousands of individuals each year, offering a lifeline to those struggling with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or financial crisis. The appeal also serves a crucial social function, fostering camaraderie and connection within the RAF family and keeping the service's history in the public consciousness alongside institutions like the Imperial War Museum.

Associated units and squadrons

While the appeal supports the entire Royal Air Force community, many specific RAF squadrons and stations maintain strong historical or ongoing affiliations with the campaign. Notable examples include the famous 617 Squadron ("The Dambusters"), 303 (Polish) Squadron, and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. RAF Halton, RAF Cranwell, and RAF Lossiemouth are among the many stations where local fundraising efforts are particularly active. The appeal also enjoys support from allied air forces and regiments with shared history, such as the Royal Australian Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Category:Charities based in the United Kingdom Category:Royal Air Force Category:Military charities