Rivenhall Airfield, in Essex, opened in October 1943 and was initially used by the US 9th Air Force.  The 397^th Bomb Group played a major part before and after D-Day, attacking tactical targets such as bridges.  The airfield was later taken over by the RAF and Nos 295 and 570 Squadrons supported Resistance forces by delivering supplies such as weaponry and other equipment.  

In March 1945 Rivenhall aircraft towed 60 paratroop assault gliders over the River Rhine as part of Operation Varsity.  It was the largest single airborne operation in history to be carried out in a day and in one location and was designed to allow the Allies to secure a foothold in western Germany.

Rivenhall Airfield closed in September 1946 and the site later become a post-war campsite for displaced Polish people.  Notable buildings, such as the gymnasium, remain as part of an industrial estate.  The site was used for many years after this by the Marconi company for radar testing but is now under threat from further development.  All that mainly remains of the airfield today are parts of the perimeter track and two T2 hangars.  That’s why our memorial was so important; it is vital that this piece of history is not forgotten.

Thank you to all our friends and supporters who joined us at the unveiling of the Rivenhall memorial.

Airfield Link

Rivenhall

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