Memorial restored

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Erin O'Shea
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Upon arrival to a new base, it's normal to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.

In November 2014, Josh Kelley, an 18-year-old dependent and former Air Force Junior ROTC member, explored the place he would call home for the next few years.

According to Kelley, while walking around the base, he came across a memorial that looked like it hadn't been attended to in quite some time. What he came upon turned out to be a time capsule memorial dedicated to the men and women of the 495th Tactical Fighter Squadron, as well as the squadron's aviators who gave their lives.

The 495th TFS was activated in 1977, and functioned as a replacement training unit for the Liberty Wing's 492nd, 493rd and 494th Fighter Squadrons that are still active today. According to an RAF Lakenheath factsheet, the 495th ended its mission Dec. 13, 1991, when the wing reorganized under the objective wing program and began its transition to the newer F-15E Strike Eagle.

Kelley realized the plaque was in need of restoration, so he contacted the base arts and crafts center to help create a new plaque. According to Kelley, the arts and crafts center supplied him with a new plaque at no expense.

"After seeing the plaque's condition, I just thought it was the right thing to do," Kelley said.

On June 19, Josh and his father, Terry Kelley, walked toward the middle of a round-a-bout where the time capsule stands. With assistance from Josh's father, they prepped the memorial's surface for the new plaque to be placed.

"The plaque looks similar to the old one, but looks newer," Josh said.

After the glue was applied and the plaque was set in place, Josh and his father stood back with a look of gratitude on their faces.

"I think it's a great initiative," said Terry Kelley, previously active duty Air Force. "Lakenheath will be a better place today."

With the names clearly distinguishable on the new plaque, all who pass by the memorial can continue to remember the fallen members of the 495th TFS for years to come.

"To the men and women who served in that mission, you're not forgotten," Josh stated.