Thursday 9th May 2019
Air Vice-Marshal David Murray, Chief Executive of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said:
“I and all of the staff here at the RAF Benevolent Fund are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Bomber Command veteran Charles Clarke and we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
“Charles became one of the leading voices in the campaign for a permanent memorial to the men who perished during their service in Bomber Command and was there to watch Her Majesty the Queen unveil the monument which now stands in London’s Green Park – a testament to the tenacity of those it pays tribute to.
“The Memorial remained close to Charles’ heart and he supported the work of the RAF Benevolent Fund, the Memorial’s guardian, giving generously of his time to share his experiences of life in Stalag Luft III, his service in Bomber Command and undertaking the brutal Long March across Germany.
“Charles was just as dedicated to protecting the legacy of his comrades in his role as Chairman of the Bomber Command Association. He attended numerous events in this capacity and inspired future generations through his work with RAF cadets and other youngsters.
“Charles will be very much missed by all of us who knew him, as a friend, a colleague and as an inspiration.”
Image: Charles Clarke, pictured at the RAF Club in March. Photo: RAF Benevolent Fund
See also: Military support organisations
