This book covers the bases used during the Second World War by the American fighter units that flew in support of the 8th Air Force's heavy bomber forces.The long-range Lightnings, Thunderbolts and Mustangs escorted the Mighty Eighth's Flying Fortresses and Liberators on their deep penetration raids into occupied Europe and Germany. Fighter cover was vital, since the USAAF flew daylight raids and in the early months the number of US aircraft lost to the defending Luftwuffe fighters was unacceptably high.The airfields included are Bodney, Bottisham, Boxted, Debden, Duxford, East Wretham, Fowlmere, Halesworth, Honington, Horsham St. Faith, King's Cliffe, Leiston, Martlesham Heath, Raydon, Steeple Morden, Wattisham and Wormingford.This book looks at the history and personalities associated with each base, what remains today and explores the favourite local wartime haunts where aircrew and ground crew would have sought well-deserved entertainment and relaxation. Other museums and places that are relevant will also be described and general directions on how to get them included.
- ISBN13 9781844159055
- Publish Date 20 August 2009
- Publish Status Out of Stock
- Out of Print 22 January 2021
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Pen & Sword Books Ltd
- Imprint Pen & Sword Aviation
- Format Paperback
- Pages 208
- Language English