North-based RAF Poseidon aircraft named after Canadian VC recipient
The UK’s seventh Poseidon MRA Mk1 Maritime Patrol Aircraft will be known as ‘William Barker VC’ in honour
of the Canadian pilot awarded a Victoria Cross whilst serving with 201 Squadron Royal Air Force in the First
World War.
The 201 Squadron operates the Poseidon in the anti-submarine warfare role from RAF Lossiemouth on the Moray Firth.
The fleet, which will total nine aircraft, is already providing cutting-edge maritime patrol working side-by-side with the Royal Navy and other Allies to secure the seas around the UK and abroad.
In October 1918 Major Barker was flying a Sopwith Snipe overhead the Western Front when he became
embroiled in a dogfight with 15 enemy aircraft.
Despite being wounded three times in the legs and having his left elbow blown away, he managed to control his biplane and disable three enemy aircraft before making a forced landing.
Regaining consciousness several days later he was informed that he was to receive the Victoria Cross, the
highest military decoration awarded for valour ‘in the face of the enemy’.
In a short note to the commander of 201 Squadron Barker wrote “By Jove, I was a foolish boy, but anyhow I taught them a lesson....”.
Group Captain Rob O’Dell from ISTAR Force Headquarters said: “The Royal Air Force has always enjoyed the closest of ties with the Royal Canadian Air Force and it is entirely fitting to name this aircraft after William Barker VC whose exceptional gallantry continues to serve as an inspiration to military aviators.
“Major Barker won his VC in 1918 while serving on 201 Sqn who now operate the Poseidon. This also provides an appropriate link to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s subsequent key role within Coastal Command during the Battle of the Atlantic in World War II, and their continuing contribution to North Atlantic maritime security today.”
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