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By 1942, the Second World War in Europe had reached a turning point, and the future had to be declared with intent. The attack on Pearl Harbour, had officially brought the United States of America into the conflict.

The fact that it was agreed that the United States should make the War in Europe the main priority shows testament to
Winston Churchills stature as the leader of the then 'Free West'.


So In early 1942, across the Atlantic they came, slowly at first, . . . . but with ever increasing speed and might. Perhaps the most easily recognisable memory and image is one of the Boeing B 17 Flying Fortresses in their massed formations.


This massive show of friendship, force, and co-operation had so many effects that it can be said to have shaped the course of future history. For the uniting of Great Britain and the United States formed an alliance that today stands as a benchmark for Peace, Unity, and Freedom. Into the green arable fields of Norfolk, Suffolk and the Anglian region, came the mechanised might of the USAAF, and when the conflict was over, they left behind many memories, friends, and links that will probably last forever.

Some of these links are to be found in the excellent series of videos from Argus Productions, on 'Discover the Norfolk Broads'. These old airfields have an atmosphere of their own, and certainly bring pictures of the times during this conflict. The USAAF made East Anglia their base, due primarily to it's location, large areas of relatively uninhabited land, and so the U.S. influence began to make it's mark. The links still are in force today, with the huge USAF Bases at Mildenhall, and Lakenheath . Both of these bases have Open Days which results in a large attendance by the people of East Anglia.

A posting to one of these bases is very much sought after by the personnel of the USAF, and this only serves to re-enforce the links already there. For the peace-keepers of today are serving the same role as their forefathers, and on the same land. The people of America still have that warm hand of friendship for the local inhabitants and the people of East Anglia hold the Americans very close to their hearts.

The posting of the USAAF to England brought many things including ice-cream, nylon stockings and swing music. This was a force that could not be suppressed. In fact, after the first fears were encountered, the Americans took back with them many influences from East Anglia to remind them of here.

Every year brings forth a large number American tourist visits, to see once again the platform for the Allied Victory, and to visit graves and memories of fallen comrades. Many tourist attractions including (The City of Norwich Aviation Museum), at Norwich International Airport have displays and artifacts to show the modern generation of East Anglia what is was like to be around during the Second World War.

These displays form special tributes with memorabilia, uniforms, and parts of actual aircraft that served here. This base formally, RAF Horshan St Faith is a time capsule that is worth experiencing for anyone.

So in the 21st Century, the links that were forged by human endeavour, sacrifice and countless acts of bravery, under a Banner of enduring Peace and Freedom are still to be treasured, and are evident in the area of Great Britain known as East Anglia.

This tranquil side of the United Kingdom, has its own legacy for the Free World, and it's tapestry is rich in culture from across the Atlantic Ocean. It is a fair bet to say that much of that culture has migrated the other way too. The hand and bond of friendship will be forever remembered in those dark days that began in 1942.

Those dark days may seem a long way off now, but that ray of light that began with those first faltering steps, has become a bedrock of peace and prosperity for us all to enjoy. Today when a American aircraft, or RAF plane for that matter roars overhead, it is the sound of freedom that has an undeniable link with the past.

* available from Edgar Spelman, Booksales and Publicity Department, Round Tower Churches Society, 105 Norwich Road, New Costessey, Norwich NR5 0LF, price £18.40 inc p&p. A booklet, East Anglian Round Tower Churches is also available, price £1.20 inc p&p.

Reproduced by kind permission of Nigel Pearce © 2002