Seventy-five years ago today thousands of troops began to be dropped behind enemy lines during the Second World War in one of its largest airborne assaults. Operation Market Garden aimed to bring eight bridges under the control of the Allied Forces. The plan failed, leaving its mastermind General Montgomery to rebrand it as a 'glorious defeat'.
Join the RAF Benevolent Fund team for a fast and flat half marathon in the historic city of Oxford. There's no better time to take on this challenge than in our centenary year. Sign up today.
Explore our interactive timeline to discover more about our history.
Go to our timeline
Do you have a story of life or service in the RAF you'd like to share with the RAF Family? Don't let your story go untold.
Share your story
Through Anxiety UK, we offer support to members of the RAF Family affected by anxiety or depression.
Read more
There are lots of events you can take part in to raise money for our work from runs to bike rides and oversea events.
See our events
We are the proud guardians of the Bomber Command Memorial in London which honours the 55,573 Bomber Command crew who lost their lives in World War Two.
Princess Marina House provides recuperative seaside breaks for serving members of the RAF and veterans.
Through Relate, we offer support to RAF couples and their families to help deal with common relationship issues.
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In 2018, we helped more than 53,000 current and former members of the RAF and their families and there are twice as many who need our help.
Helpline: 0300 102 1919
