A field and an inviting sky

Image: © Neil Owen Taken: 19 Sep 2012

Part of the landscape around Larkhill, which has witnessed thousands of military personnel stationed here over the twentieth century. Most were soldiers but a few became founders of a new service. The area gently falling away downhill was once the cradle of military aviation as it was used by the very first flyers, attached to the Army. Taking to the air in their primitive craft and using the open spaces as an airfield, the amazing potential of such a breakthrough became evident. Soon the embryonic service grew into the Royal Flying Corps, and then later to the Royal Air Force. Little remains of any of the history on the ground, save for a few items, as the camps were largely temporary canvas affairs. See Image] for an example.

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