Exploring the Forgotten Relics of WWII Airfields Across the Globe
Introduction:
The Second World War was one of the most significant events in human history, and it had a profound impact on the entire world. The war brought about unprecedented destruction, but it also spurred technological advancements that have continued to shape our world today. One aspect of this legacy is the numerous airfields built during WWII for military purposes. Many of these airfields are now forgotten relics, abandoned and overgrown with nature. However, they remain a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in WWII.
In this post, we will take a look at some of the forgotten airfields used during World War II across different regions.
1) RAF Upwood – Cambridgeshire
RAF Upwood was initially established as an RAF Bomber Command station during WWII. It played a critical role in providing support to bomber operations against Germany during the war. After WWII ended, it was converted into a base for transport aircraft before finally being closed down in 1994.
Today, much of the site remains intact despite being abandoned since its closure over two decades ago. A visit to RAF Upwood reveals several buildings still standing – former barracks for soldiers stationed here – along with other structures such as hangers and control towers that have been left untouched by time.
2) Kalafrana Airfield – Malta
Located on Malta’s southern coast, Kalafrana Airfield played an essential role in supplying Allied forces fighting against Axis powers during WWII. Its strategic location made it ideal for use by both British Royal Air Force (RAF) and United States Army Air Forces (USAAF).
After being decommissioned following the end of hostilities in 1945, Kalafrana became home to several civilian organizations until finally closing its doors permanently after years of neglect when all remaining buildings were demolished around 2008.
3) Bovingdon Airfield – Hertfordshire
Bovingdon Airfield was initially opened in 1941 as a bomber command station for the RAF, and was used to launch raids against Nazi Germany. In 1969, it was transferred to the United States Air Force (USAF) and became home to their strategic air command operations for the next two decades.
After being decommissioned by the USAF in 1992, much of Bovingdon’s infrastructure was left intact until it too began falling into disrepair following years of neglect. Today, many of its buildings remain standing but are covered with graffiti that bears witness to their abandonment.
4) RCAF Station Clinton – Ontario
RCAF Station Clinton played an important role during WWII as part of Canada’s contribution to Allied forces. It served primarily as a training facility for pilots flying fighter aircraft such as Hurricanes and Spitfires.
Following its decommissioning after WWII ended, RCAF Station Clinton became home first to a private airstrip before eventually becoming abandoned altogether. Today only remnants exist such as old runways which have been overtaken by nature along with some crumbling hangars scattered around the area.
5) RAF Church Fenton – Yorkshire
RAF Church Fenton is one of Britain’s oldest military airfields dating back over 100 years. During WWII it played a significant role within Fighter Command providing air defence against potential German attacks on nearby cities like Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester and Liverpool among others.
The base continued operating as an active RAF station right up until early March 2013 when it finally closed its doors permanently due to budget cuts; subsequently most structures have been demolished or sold off including several historic airplane hangers that were once used extensively during wartime.
Conclusion:
Forgotten airfields from World War II are scattered across different regions worldwide. They bear testimony not only about history but also about nature’s resilience in reclaiming what man has built when left alone long enough without human intervention or maintenance efforts expended on them whatsoever. While many of these airfields are now abandoned and left to crumble, their stories will continue to live on in the memories of those who served during WWII, as well as through visits by curious explorers and history buffs.