Remembering RAF Family who passed away in service

Today (12th December) is the UK National Workplace Day of Remembrance and we remember all those who passed away in service. 

The day is a time to remember everyone who lost their lives at work, whatever their job. 

As well as remembering, the RAF Benevolent Fund is here to support those whose loved ones passed away while serving in the RAF. 

One of these is RAF Benevolent Fund Ambassador Jacqui Thompson, whose husband, Gary, a reservist with the RAF Regiment, was killed in Afghanistan in 2008 when his vehicle was hit by a landmine.

The couple had five girls and when Gary was killed, the Fund stepped in immediately with a financial grant to make sure they were not in difficulty during the turmoil. 

It reassured Jacqui that she would not face the prospect of losing their home and would be able to support their daughters.

Jacqui said: "I cannot put into words how much we love and miss him. 

"The RAF Benevolent Fund told me how they could help, and I knew then that we wouldn't face losing our home and I would be able to support our daughter, Jordan, through university. 

"I want more people to know that, if the worst happens, the RAF Benevolent Fund are ready to help in any way they can."

Another person who was supported by the Fund is Natasha Haward. 

Natasha lost her father, Group Captain David Haward, to a flying accident in 1998.

At the time, Natasha was only four years old so was not really aware of what was going on. 

"He was coming down and he hit a telephone wire. I know that he just snow dived into the ground. It was tragic," she said.

She added: "He lives very strongly still within my family. I get told wonderful things about how close we were and how fond of me he was. That's really beautiful."

The RAF Benevolent Fund helped Natasha and her family during their greatest time of need. 

Twenty years later the Fund is still helping the family and supporting Natasha's future. 

Natasha graduated from drama school, part-funded by the RAF Benevolent Fund, and is now pursuing a career as an actress.