By Isle of Wight Observer
Local residents gathered to commemorate the 85th anniversary of WWII Battle of Britain pilot Archibald Patrick Lyall, known as ‘Pat’, being shot down on November 28, 1940 in his Spitfire over Apse Airfield in Shanklin. A commemorative wreath was laid alongside the plaque dedicated to him. The pilot, who was a talented rugby player, was just 27 years old when he died.
The service was officiated by Rev. Mark Williams, with a tribute from the RAF Association delivered by Air Vice-Marshal (Retd.) Tony Stables. The letter said: “Archibald ‘Pat’ Lyall was one of Churchill’s ‘Few’, who, alongside comrades from the Commonwealth and allies further afield, stood firm in the face of tyranny during Europe’s darkest days.
“With 80 years having now passed since the ending of the Second World War, and with the events of that titanic struggle turning from memory into history, it is more important than ever that we continue to remember men like Pat Lyall, who gave their tomorrow for our today.
“In their name we give ourselves to this noble cause. Proudly and thankfully, we will remember them.”
The President of the IW branch of the Royal British Legion, Ian Ward, read the Kohima Epitaph, and ex-serviceman Frank Baldry read the Exhortation.
Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Ward said: “This year saw the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and we felt it appropriate to tell the story of this battle over Shanklin and honour the memory of Archibald, as well as the debt we owe to ‘the Few’.”
Local historian, John Holmberg, who contributed to a film about the pilot, which is available at Growing Up in the Bay – APL and Airdrome, added: “The film is our tribute to Pilot Officer Lyall and, although we tend the plaque dedicated to his memory, the film tells the stories of the battles above the Island that day, the history of the airfield, and the other pilots involved.”
