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We cover the story of Nuthampstead Airfield during the war
years from construction in 1942 by the US Engineering (Aviation)
Battalions to the end of the war in 1945
The base was handed over, whilst still under construction, to
the USAAF in August 1942. The airfield was never fully completed,
as the 830th Engineer Battalion was suddenly transferred to Watton
in Norfolk.
The first inhabitants were members of the 55th Fighter Group,
who arrived on 16th September 1943. The 55th were equipped with
the P-38 Lightning fighter.
On the 22nd of April the 398th Bomb Group arrived with their distinctive
all-silver finished, B-17Gs.
The 398th flew it's first combat mission on 6th May and completed
a total of 195 missions during the next 12 months. The group
completed its final operation on 25th April 1945.
- These are the basic facts, now watch and listen to the shocking
truths of what happened here during that very short time. This
section of the documentary contains unique and unseen colour footage.
