During August 1994, 2168 (Yeadon) Squadron left its home at Greenacre Hall in Rawdon, and moved to the former shore base of HMS Ceres, a Supply Base of the Royal Naval Reserve that unit having disbanded shortly before.

In moving to the Coney Park site, 2168 found itself immersed in a highly aviation orientated environment, with a heliport on the northern perimeter, and the western threshold of the runway of Leeds and Bradford Airport less than half a mile away.

The area is steeped in aviation history, 609 Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force operated from RAF Yeadon during the Second World War, and engine components for Rolls Royce engines were made in the local factories.

It is this association with the past that has prompted the selection of the Merlin as the unit badge. The Merlin marks the history of our environment with the production of the engine type that famously equipped the legendary Hurricane, Spitfire, and Lancaster aircraft during the Second World War. The Merlin is also noted for its habit of taking over abandoned nests, a parallel with the circumstances of 2168 taking over the home of former HMS Ceres.

The motto which is presented in Latin is "CONTENDITE EMENDARE" and translates into English as "Strive to Improve"; this motto is relevant to all members of the Squadron regardless of their standing or experience. It emphasises the importance of consistent peak performance from everyone associated with the unit for the good of the Squadron and for the good of all connected with it.

Following the decision to adopt the Merlin as the unit emblem, searches were made for not only a suitable image, but also for the expertise to develop the badge itself. Clearly there was a need for the assistance of a talented individual to take on the design and production of the badge.

A local artist, Darren Holmes, volunteered his services, and the result is here for all to see. A unit badge is not something that is subject to change, and as such there is every reason to expect that this design will remain in this form for a very significant period, probably in the order of decades, but hopefully it will be much longer.

The final production of the badge was finalised and finished during early 2003, and was presented to the Squadron on the 6th July 2003 during the annual presentation and review parade. The finished article was presented to the Squadron by Darren Holmes and received by the Honorary President, Baroness Gibson of Market Rasen and the Officer Commanding 2168 (Yeadon) Squadron, Flight Lieutenant M Brittan RAFVR(T).