squadron standard qualifications

Squadron Standard Qualifications

In order to qualify for the award of a Standard, two conditions were laid down by King George VI,

(1) It must have completed 25 years service in the RAF.

(2) It must have earned the appreciation of the reigning monarch for specially outstanding operations.

The Standard of the RAF conforms to a uniform size and composition. It is rectangular blue silk flag, fringed and tasselled, measuring four feet by two feet eight inches within the fringe. The individual badge of the squadron is centred on the background, with scrolls on either side recording battle honours, up to eight in number, together with a border composed of roses, thistles, shamrocks and leeks.

Standards epitomise the service and deeds of the squadrons to which they belong and as such they are regarded with the veneration they deserve, and receive a religious blessing when they are presented. They are treated and regarded with the same respect as Colours, but when they are paraded together, the Colour takes precedence, and is always carried on the right of the Standard. The Standard is honoured as a symbol of trust which the Sovereign has placed in the squadron, and is an emblem of its achievements, being a reminder of the devotion and sacrifice of our predecessors, and an inspiration to those who serve. (Page 59. Customs and traditions of the RAF. Sqn Ldr P. G. Hering)

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