On Remembrance Sunday, the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans organised a memorable day with Aero Legends at North Weald Airfield. The day brought together WWII veterans, their families, and carers to watch Spitfires.
On 9 November three volunteer London cab drivers transported veterans Ivan Staines, Dorothea Barron, Don Turrell, and Robbie Hall to the airfield, where they were warmly welcomed by fellow volunteers and supporters. The day was coordinated with Aero Legends by London cab driver and photographer Dean Euesden, a dedicated Taxi Charity volunteer.
Guests were treated to the unforgettable sight of a majestic Spitfire taking off and landing, before having the opportunity to pose for photographs alongside the iconic aircraft. In a moment that captured the spirit of the day, Dorothea Barron and Robbie Hall, both centenarians, climbed a step ladder to look into the cockpit, delighting onlookers with their enthusiasm.
This was not the first time Dorothea and Robbie had been close to a Spitfire. In September 2024, both veterans took to the skies from Biggin Hill, experiencing the thrill of flight in the legendary aircraft.
Dick Goodwin, Vice President of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, said:
“Remembrance Sunday is always a poignant occasion, and to see our veterans enjoying such a special day at North Weald was truly moving. The Spitfire is a symbol of courage and sacrifice, and sharing this experience with those who lived through the war was a privilege.”
Keith Perkins from Aero Legends said:
“The Nation is indebted to veterans who served to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. Aero Legends wanted to create an event at North Weald airfield that gave members of the public somewhere to assemble to pay their respects. We were humbled to see so many people attend at the airfield and at the Church where we performed a poppy drop. We were delighted to so see several veterans able to make their way to the event courtesy of the Taxi Charity and we hope to see many more in the future”
To fund and facilitate their work, the charity is wholly reliant on donations, grants and sponsorship.
