The restoration of a remarkable Second World War vessel, RFC113, is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of preserving our historical artifacts. This 'Little Ships' boat, a true unsung hero, has been brought back to life after a remarkable journey, and its story is one that deserves to be told and celebrated.
What makes this particular restoration so fascinating is the boat's extensive history and its role in some of the most significant events of the war. RFC113 was involved in the evacuation missions of Operation Aerial and the Jersey and St Malo evacuations, including the famous Miracle of Dunkirk. It was crewed by volunteers from Jersey and played a crucial role in rescuing British and Allied forces from the beaches and harbours of northern France. The boat's involvement in these missions, alongside its service as an Air Sea Rescue Boat and its participation in the Normandy invasion fleet, showcases its versatility and importance during the war.
The restoration process itself is a testament to human ingenuity and dedication. Jon Blair, the owner, took on the challenge of restoring RFC113 after finding her in a deteriorating state in a field. It was a daunting task, but with the help of his friends and the expertise of Michael Dennett's Boatbuilders, they managed to bring the boat back to life. The restoration process took 14 years and required a significant amount of effort and resources, but the end result is a beautiful vessel that is fully seaworthy.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this story is the boat's original configuration and the challenges faced during the restoration. The hull is original, though it has been resheathed, and the boat has undergone many changes even during the war. The restoration team had to rely on various archives, memoirs, and trips to the Southampton registry office to uncover the boat's historic past. The process of bringing RFC113 back to her former glory is a testament to the dedication and skill of the restoration team.
The boat's journey to its current state is a remarkable one. After being found in a field, sold on eBay, and undergoing years of different ownership and name changes, RFC113 has been fully restored and is now fully seaworthy. She has been taken to Port Solent and is set to depart to Ramsgate via Eastbourne, with plans for her to be at the Pegasus Bridge memorial for the D-Day commemorations. The boat's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of preserving our historical artifacts.
The restoration of RFC113 is a reminder of the importance of preserving our historical artifacts and the stories they tell. It is a testament to the dedication and skill of the restoration team and the power of human ingenuity. As Richard Hellyer, who uncovered much of the research for RFC113, noted, it is crucial to save these boats and preserve the history they represent. The story of RFC113 is one that deserves to be told and celebrated, and it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served during the Second World War.
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