26 June 2025

When Norway was invaded by the Nazis during the Second World War, the King moved to the United Kingdom. Armed forces personnel made their escape and joined the allies. A section of the Royal Norwegian Air Force arrived at Woodhaven, Wormit and flew catalinas.

They were very well received by the local community who made great efforts to make them feel at home. King Haakon came to Woodhaven in 1944 to encourage what became known as the 333 Squadron. Whilst in Woodhaven, he planted two laburnum trees.

In 1975, a stone was put up between the laburnums to mark this occasion. Yesterday, the stone was rededicated. The relationship between 333 Squadron and the people of Woodhaven has been nurtured over the past eighty years not least by the Wormit Boating Club.

Speeches were made by a Colonel in the Royal Norwegian Air Force and a representative of the Wormit Boating Club. Because there is no parish minister, I was invited to lead the dedication service. It was a glorious day on the banks of a stunning River Tay.

We live in a world which is still at war and like other nations, the threat of war inhabits our national conversation. The existence of this stone speaks of friendship across the nations, collaboration in time of conflict and the compassion, kindness and human warmth which is to be found in all peoples.

History is best remembered together for we all remember historical events differently. Collaboration is important – pockets of friendship across national borders, signs of hope in a wartorn world, a celebration of a common humanity marked by humility and respect all bearing the image of God on the banks of the river Tay.