United Kingdom - Ireland
Nov. 08, 1968 - R.A.F. Squadron Adopts Elephant As Mascot: No. 27 Squadron of R.A.F. Strike Command, held a parade today at R.A.F. Station Scampton, near Lincoln, to mark the adoption of Gosta an eight-months old elephant from Sherwood Zoo, Hucknall, Nottingham. It is also the 53rd. anniversary of the Squadron's formation. The elephant is commemorated in No 27 Squadron's badge: it derives from the first aircraft with which the squadron was equipped in 1915 the Martinsyde Scout, later to be called the Martinsyde Elephant because of its cumbersome appearance. Today No 27 Squadron - sometimes known as The Flying Elephants - forms part of Strike Command's force of long-range Vulcan bombers. Gosta, who was smallest elephant in the British Isles. She stands 38 inches high, weighs 350 lbs. Photo shows Crowds of children from the R.A.F. Station - gather round the elephant which is wearing an officer's cap, which was presented to it during today's adoption ceremony
