Mesa: Honoring History: Falcon Field Airport Receives Replica Plaque for WWII British Cadets

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

Airport Director Corinne Nystrom expressed her gratitude for the plaque, stating, "We deeply appreciate this tribute to the WWII British cadets who trained at Falcon Field. It is a heartfelt recognition of their courage and resilience in defending their country and democracy."

Crafted from wood salvaged from one of the airport's original WWII hangars, which was damaged in a severe storm in September 2023, the plaque was created by Sara and Dave Hengtes of Hawkeye Engraving. It features an inscription that reads, "They will rise on wings like Eagles."

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The original plaque was unveiled earlier this year at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, England, alongside memorials for No. 1 and No. 5 British Flying Training Schools. The presentation took place during the 2024 Falcon Field Day, an event organized by the Falcon Field Associationthe Next Generation and supported by AAHG in the U.S.

During the ceremony in England on October 19th, Mesa District 4 City Councilmember Jenn Duff participated and shared her personal connection to the RAF pilots who trained at Falcon Field. "As a descendant of one of these pilots who stayed in Mesa after the war," she said, "I found it particularly meaningful to visit their homeland and honor their service and ultimate sacrifice for freedom." Duff also noted that this plaque serves as a tribute to their sacrifice and highlights the strong bond between Mesa and the United Kingdom.

Jocelyn Condon, vice president of AAHG, emphasized the importance of preserving Falcon Field's legacy as a World War II British Royal Air Force training facility. "The Airport, its staff, and our non-profit all play a vital role in connecting, sharing, and preserving the history of Falcon Field," she said. "I hope this plaque will spark curiosity and serve as a gateway for visitors to learn about the fascinating history of the airfield and its role in the allied war effort."

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Each November, a remembrance ceremony is held at the Mesa Cemetery to honor the 23 British Royal Air Force cadets who lost their lives while training at Falcon Field. This ceremony is organized by the 6-member RAF Memorial committee, which includes members from various non-profit groups.

In addition to honoring these brave pilots through physical tributes like the plaque, AAHG is also involved in raising funds for the documentary Patriot Skies by Emmy award-winning producer Kelly Sallaway. The film features interviews with many of the pilots who trained at Falcon Field and their memories of Mesa.

The presentation of this replica plaque serves as a reminder of Falcon Field's significant role in World War II and honors the brave RAF cadets who trained there. It also highlights the strong connection between Mesa and England that continues to be celebrated through events like Falcon Field Day and the remembrance ceremony at Mesa Cemetery.

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