Post by larryc1 on Aug 3, 2023 20:40:09 GMT
Set time slider at 12/1940.
RAF Eastchurch has a long history in British aviation, beginning in 1909. It was initially associated with the Royal Navy and was with the RAF by 1918. It was officially a Coastal Command base during WW2 and 266 Squadron was stationed here, among others. It was not a Fighter Command base although the Luftwaffe was convinced that it was and bombed it on nine different occasions. In these raids 12 were killed and 26 injured. Three hangars were destroyed, the ammunition dump exploded and many aircraft were wrecked. ( Only Biggin Hill was bombed more, with 11 attacks.)
On September 1, 1945 the base was temporarily evacuated and placed in 'Care amd Maintenance'. This aerial photo dated 12/1940 seems to show the base just after the battle, if the date is to be believed. Note the heavy defenses. The site is now occupied by His Majesty's Prisons.
RAF Eastchurch in the Battle of Britain..kmz (5.71 KB)
RAF Eastchurch has a long history in British aviation, beginning in 1909. It was initially associated with the Royal Navy and was with the RAF by 1918. It was officially a Coastal Command base during WW2 and 266 Squadron was stationed here, among others. It was not a Fighter Command base although the Luftwaffe was convinced that it was and bombed it on nine different occasions. In these raids 12 were killed and 26 injured. Three hangars were destroyed, the ammunition dump exploded and many aircraft were wrecked. ( Only Biggin Hill was bombed more, with 11 attacks.)
On September 1, 1945 the base was temporarily evacuated and placed in 'Care amd Maintenance'. This aerial photo dated 12/1940 seems to show the base just after the battle, if the date is to be believed. Note the heavy defenses. The site is now occupied by His Majesty's Prisons.
RAF Eastchurch in the Battle of Britain..kmz (5.71 KB)