“It felt good to know the Fund was there for our family”

For Anne and Michael Walker, the RAF Benevolent Fund became a lifeline after the devastating loss of their son, Corporal Scott Walker. Their cherished memories of Scott, and the support from the Fund, bring comfort and strength at this time of Remembrance.

Corporal Scott Walker served in the RAF Regiment for 18 years, beginning his career after passing out on 18 June 1999. During that time, he completed seven tours across Afghanistan, Kuwait, and Iraq, and later served with the Defence Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Centre (DCBRNC).

Scott excelled in his career and received an award from the Special Security Forces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for his outstanding support and cooperation.

Anne said: “Scott loved the RAF and the people he served with. He was proud to wear the uniform and always went the extra mile to help others, whether that was his fellow servicemen or the recruits he trained later in his career.”

Sadly, in 2017, while still serving at RAF Honington, Scott took his own life at the age of 42. The loss was devastating for Anne, Michael, and their family.

Anne recalls how the RAF Benevolent Fund stepped in at that difficult time: “We couldn’t believe how good they were for the funeral. It felt good to know we weren’t on our own and that someone was there for us and for Scott’s children.”

The Fund supported Scott’s youngest daughter, who was 15 at the time, by arranging counselling to help her through her grief. Anne said: “The Fund told us, ‘Anything we can do to help, we’ll do what we can for you,’ and they truly meant it.”

In the years since Scott’s passing, Anne and Michael have found comfort in honouring his memory and giving back to the Fund following the support they received.

They organised a memorial fundraising day at their local football club. The event brought together friends, family, and Scott’s former RAF colleagues, including members of his old regiment who travelled down from RAF Lossiemouth.

Michael said: “It was a joyous day. The RAF put up tents in case the weather turned, though they ended up being used for shade because it was such a hot day. We raised £1,700 for the Fund that day.”

This year, to mark Anne’s 70th birthday, she once again asked friends and family to donate to the Fund in Scott’s memory, raising a further £700.

Michael said: “We’re glad the money we’ve raised will help someone else in a similar situation to us, someone deeply in need, who can be looked after by the Fund and move forward.”

Scott’s legacy also lives on at RAF Honington, where new recruits still compete for the ‘Scotty Award’, presented to the most improved trainee – a fitting tribute to a man remembered for his patience, encouragement, and kindness to others.

Anne and Michael continue to share their story in the hope that it will encourage other members of the RAF Family to reach out for help when they need it.