Community

Flag presentation by US Air Force at Wings Over Carew event

Published

2 years ago

August 5, 2023

THE WINGS OVER CAREW event held on August 5, 2023, at Carew Cheriton Airfield was a momentous occasion that brought together representatives from Pembrokeshire County Council and the United States Air Force. The event featured the presentation of the national flag of the United States of America, which had been flown in an F-35A “Lightning II” during a training mission over the United Kingdom.

The Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Tom Tudor attended the event accompanied by Councillor Simon Hancock. The occasion marked a rare honour and privilege for the County Council as they were bestowed with the national flag of the United States of America.

The national flag of the United States was presented by the 492d Fighter Squadron, a distinguished unit from the United States Air Force. The flag significance as it had been flown in an F-35A “Lightning II” during a training mission over the United Kingdom. The gesture of flying the flag over the UK was a tribute to Pembrokeshire County Council, underscoring the close ties between the United States and the local area.

The F-35A “Lightning II” is a state-of-the-art stealth multirole fighter aircraft operated by the United States Air Force. It represents the cutting edge of aviation technology and is known for its versatility, speed, and advanced capabilities.

Local volunteer Keith Hamer highlighted that the day was not only about entertainment but also served a serious purpose, aiming to honour the American soldiers who were stationed locally during the Second World War and valiantly participated in the D-Day landings.

The entertainment during the day started at 10am and included a plethora of activities and displays. The event featured a captivating military vehicle parade, showcasing vintage motorbikes, and enrapturing performances by the Swansea Pipe Band. Among the highlights of the day was the thrilling exhibition by the renowned RAF Falcons parachute display team, demonstrating their aerial expertise and precision.

Furthermore, the event showcased an emergency display by the fire brigade, police, and ambulance service, demonstrating their dedication and preparedness in handling critical situations.

It was unfortunate to learn that the KC-135 aircraft was unable to take off as scheduled for the fly-by due to adverse weather conditions at its location.

The event was a resounding success, celebrating the strong ties between Pembrokeshire County Council and the United States Air Force. The presentation of the national flag of the United States, flown in the F-35A “Lightning II,” honoured and recognised the County Council’s role in fostering robust relations between the United States and the United Kingdom. The family fun day activities, including the thrilling RAF Falcons parachute display, military vehicle parade, and emergency service exhibitions, further added to the festivities and commemorated the sacrifices of American soldiers during the Second World War.

Despite the unfortunate weather affecting the KC-135 aircraft, the event left a lasting impression of camaraderie and gratitude for the shared history between the nations.

Community

Festive creativity shines as Kurtz MS meets card competition winner

Published

45 minutes ago

December 15, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SAMUEL KURTZ, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, visited Pembroke Dock Community School on Friday 12th December to present a prize to the winner of this year’s Christmas Card Competition.

The competition invited pupils to design a festive Christmas card, with entries received from schools across the area. The standard of artwork was exceptionally high, showcasing the creativity, imagination and talent of young people in the community.

During the visit, Samuel Kurtz congratulated the winning pupil and thanked all those who took part, as well as the teachers and staff who supported the competition. Each child who entered also received a certificate in recognition of their hard work and effort.

Speaking after the presentation, Samuel said, “It was a real pleasure to visit Pembroke Dock Community School today and announce the winner of my Christmas Card competition. This year the winner is Mair Moseley, aged 10, and she designed a wonderful Santa image that really stood out. She has won a chocolate selection set and a £20 book token to enjoy over Christmas.”

He added, “ The creativity and enthusiasm shown by all the children was fantastic, and it made choosing a winner extremely difficult. I want to congratulate all the entrants and thank the staff for their ongoing support.”

Pembroke Dock Community School Headteacher, Mrs Katie Crockford-Morris, added, “We were delighted to welcome Samuel Kurtz MS to the school to present the prize. The children thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the competition, and they were incredibly proud to receive their certificates.”

The winning design will now be used as Samuel Kurtz’s official Christmas card this year, with one copy already on its way to His Majesty, King Charles.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

20 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.