Image: IWM (CH8217) A team at work in an ROC post on the roof of a suburban building in Eltham, south-east London.

Roy Boston: My Time in the Royal Observer Corps

In 1944, at just 16 years old, Roy Boston joined the Royal Observer Corps in wartime England. From an observation post overlooking the Thames, he helped identify, track and report aircraft flying overhead during the final years of the Second World War.

In this video, Roy shares his memories of the training, equipment and responsibilities involved, as well as the camaraderie he experienced while serving alongside older observers. His firsthand account offers a fascinating insight into the vital work carried out by the Royal Observer Corps and the young people who helped watch over Britain’s skies.

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Discover Aviation History Like Never Before

Experience the wonder of WW1 and WW2 aircraft and the stories behind them at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Open 7 days, 9am–4pm, at 14 Rosina Corlett Lane, Omaka, Blenheim. Every visit supports the growth of this world-class destination.

Historic airplanes displayed in a dimly lit museum exhibit with a large screen in the background.