MH100 -
Congratulations to Peter Davies, who conceived the idea to celebrate 100 years of aviation history at Martlesham and to his team, who put together the event over a period of three years.
The original concept was conceived by Peter as a celebration of research and development at Martlesham. Not only the history of the airfield as a centre for British aviation research and development, but also British Telecom, who arrived here in the 70's and have also been responsible for ground breaking and innovative developments in the field of telecommunications.
The MH100 committee also wanted to include the concept and development of this unique village, with its design feature of a series of hamlets connected by footpaths with a central village green away from traffic. The new Martlesham Heath village is built on the site of the old aerodrome.
Many displays were exhibited in the church of St Michael's and All Angels. All telling the development and innovation theme. Martlesham Heath Aviation Society provided many pictures of historical interest as well as videos. British Telecom were present as was a stand from our friends at Bawdsey Radar museum. RAF Martlesham Heath was directly involved in the early development of airborne radar.The village history was also displayed.
In the Scout hut continuous video was shown. Among other topics, were the stories of veterans, some of whom were associated with Martlesham Heath
Many stands from organisations too numerous to mention were dotted around the village green.
The weather was perfect as we welcomed descendants of the American Eagle squadron who were based here for a time in 1941. 71 squadron RAF was one of three squadrons formed by the RAF to help us in our time of need when we stood alone against the Nazi menace.
Various photos and a video of the unveiling of the commemorative stone by John Cooper. Press VIDEO to view.
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Descendants of the American airmen who fought with the RAF in the “Eagle Squadrons” Laying a wreath at the foot of the new Commemorative Stone in memory.
The Red Devils -
Hurricane and Spitfire of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight salute the heritage and history of Martlesham Heath
We always have an evening outing in place of our August meeting. On Friday 4th August approximately 60 of us visited the 390th Bomb Group memorial Museum of the United States Army Air Force.
We were greeted by their chairman, Peter Kindred, on behalf of the volunteer guides and ladies who welcomed us with a cup of tea on our arrival.
The museum is in the control tower and has grown over the years with the help of dedicated volunteers. It is an impressive memorial to the WW2 history of this bomb group, whose losses were so awful. The Americans arrived in July 1943 and were thrown in at the deep end when they attacked the Messerschmitt aircraft factory at Regensburg in August and followed up with a raid on the Schweinfurt ball bearing factory complex in 
October. The group flew their last missions dropping supplies to the starving people in Holland just prior to "D" Day. They lost 186 B17 "Flying Fortress" bombers in 300 missions. 153 airmen were killed or missing.
A smaller museum is dedicated to the "British Resistance Organisation", whose object was to offer underground resistance if the country was invaded.
Our members were very impressed with the Parham Air museum and all those who have made it into such a fine tribute. Afterwards several members enjoyed a buffet supper at the Lion Inn at nearby Little Glemham.
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