578 Squadron Reunion Days

As the Battle of Berlin was raging into 1944, 578 Squadron was formed from 'C' flight at 51 Squadron, Snaith. In February 1944 Wing Commander D.S.S Wilkerson took 578 Squadron to its new base in Burn,and in their short operational life, the squadron built up a favourable reputation, which led to their adopted motto of 'Accuracy'.

After the war, members of the Squadron set up the 578 Squadron Association to keep in touch with old friends and remember those who died in operations. Over the years the association has held many reunions. The 2004 celebrations were for the 60th anniversary of the foundation of the squadron. The Barlby Foot-Tappers band was invited to be an integral part of the days celebrations, and are delighted to have been invited ever since.

Saturday 15th May 2004 started with a remembrance ceremony conducted by Rev Keith Jukes in Selby Abbey. As part of the ceremony cornet player Sarah Joy sounded 'The Last Post and Reveille' in the solemn Act of Remembrance. The band were present to play the first public performance of the 578 Squadron Concert March, 'Accuracy', composed specially for the occasion. Des Hollis, squadron archivist, gave this review in the squadron association newsletter.

"The March begins with a very catchy marching tune which would engender easy progress of any military unit on the yomp, or on a more formal parade occasion. The uplifting mood gives way to more sombre tones as the music reflects the feeling of impending, and then actual operations against the enemy, when the notes provide a much more harsh sound, and one can 'feel the tension in the air'. Towards the end of the piece, the mood changes again, lightens and returns to the original theme. The composer has indicated that he set out to create such different moods, portraying a sense of what the aircrew experienced on operations. In this, I believe he has been successful. The march was played enthusiastically by the 48 youthful and smartly dressed members of the band to the delight of the large number of listeners in the Abbey."

The band continue to take part in 578 Squadron events, with the latest in May 2011 an eagerly anticipated fixture in the band's calendar.

"UNITED WITH PRIDE"

578 Squadron, Burn Association & Barlby Foot-Tappers Band