| The airfield and base was completed in February 1944 and handed over to the Air Ministry, then given over to the Royal Air Force. The RAF officially handed control over to the 467th BG at a flag ceremony on 12th April 44, the day the 467th were participating on their 3rd combat operation. The RAF Ensign was lowered and replaced by the U.S. Stars and Stripes and Rackheath airfield was numbered USAAF field 145. |
Handshakes as the RAF officially handover the airfield and base to the 467th BG
Officers of the RAF and 467th BG salute at the Flag Ceremony
| The majority of the airfield and base was constructed on the estate of Sir Edward Stracey whose family resided at the magnificent Rackheath Hall originally built in 1820. Besides the Hall the estate composed of extensive parkland and woodland in which many of the base buildings were located which afforded a degree of camourflage from the air. |
The magnificent Rackheath Hall home of Sir Edward Stracey & Family
Villagers descend on Rackheath Hall for a summer garden fete held in August 1944
The sweeping road down to the Hall taken on the day of the summer garden fete
Winter scene of the frozen Lake and Bridge adjoining Rackheath Hall
Another winter scene of Nissen hut accommodation among the trees on the Estate
Astonishing scene of a Bike round-up ordered by Col. Shower
Interior of the Base Chapel taken around Christmas 1944
Officer's Club Bar November 1944
Humourous drawing adorning the Officer's Club wall near the bar area
Officer's Club Games area and Dance Floor. Note the dartboard, table-tennis, and piano
Officer's Club Lounge and Fireplace
Base Theatre announcing a World Premiere
