550 Squadron memorial window

Address:St Denys

Parish:North Killingholme

Type of Memorial:Stained glass window

Architect/ Designer:Ronald Sims

Manufacturer:Artist and glazier Sep Wough

Description:In abstract, the window depicts the view through the cockpit of an aircraft returning home. In the general fabric of ground and sky, the 550 Squadron badge is central and above an outline of a runway and flarepath with depictions of a church and a windsock to signify the landing point as North Killingholme. The badge is flanked by the Squadron number and the Squadron Identification letters 'BQ' and a faint interpretation of a Cross links those who suffered. At the top, Alpha and Omega signs flank the central moon in the first phase; three star constellations, the Plough, the Little Bear and Cassiopeia, are set with the North Star on which compasses were checked; a Lancaster approaches. The base of the window pays tribute to all who served on the squadron and North Killingholme station in the 1943 - 1945 period: civilians, WAAF, RNZAF, RAAF, RCAF, RAF.

Inscription:This window is dedicated to the memory of the 353 aircrew of the RAF., R.A.A.F., R.C.A.F., and R.N.Z.A.F. who flew with 550 Squadron on operations from North Killingholme between 1943 and 1945 and did not return and of those members of the R.A.F. and W.A.Af. who gave thier lives so that others should live in freedom.

Notes on Condition:UKNIWM Ref: 51751

Surveyor/ Supplier of Information:Mike Leeman

Notes:The window was dedicated at a thanksgiving service at 2pm on Saturday 12th July 1997. The service was led by the Right Reverend Donald Snelgrove, former Bishop of Hull.