Hello, I'm after advice.

[cjc]

Hello there,
I have just joined and I am after some advice if anyone would like to help. I'm collating data on Rivenhall Airfield and the nineth who were based there. I am trying to get as much information from American airmen and the locals to offer a sort of social history.

Is there anyone that may have knowledge on the planes or perhaps other forums to consult. I would be very grateful to all suggestions.

I have already put together a small brief article about Rivenhall (Welcome to the BugleOnline) but there is so many stories to tell.

Anyway, thank you for your time.

 

[ccheese]

Welcome to the forum, cjc.... I'm sure some of the guys from Europe will
be able to help you. Lot's of folks with tons of info, here.

Charles

 

[cjc]

Thank you Cheese that is really kind of you to reply.

 

[DerAdlerIstGelandet]

I am not able to help you on this, but I would like to welcome you to the forum as well.

 

[Airframes]

Hi and welcome. I'll have a look at what I have on Rivenhall (which might be minimal) and let you know. Off the top of my head, I think B26 Marauders were based there for a relatively short period in 1944, until moving to the continent. I'll have to check, but I think the base then became R.A.F.
Terry.

 

[seesul]

Welcome aboard and I´m sure you´ll find some answer here!
Greeting from Czech Republic8)

 

[Wayne Little]

Can't help...but welcome to the forum!

 

[Micdrow]

Hi Cjc,

Try this website and welcome.

Rivenhall 2009 - HISTORY OF RIVENHALL AIRFIELD 1

 

[Airframes]

Thanks Paul, that's saved me looking for one of the sources!
Here's a little bit that might help out, although Rivenhall airfield had a relatively short history.
The airfield was completed in late 1943, and the 363rd Fighter Group, 9th USAAF, arrived in January 1944, equipped with P51B/C Mustang fighters. This unit operated from Rivenhall on escort duties, until moving out in early April 1944. The base was then occupied by the 397th Bomb Group, flying Martin B26 Marauders. This unit was made up of the 596th, 597th, 598th and 599th Bomb Squadrons, their code letters being U2,9F,X2 and 6B respectively. The 397th attacked targets in France, mainly fuel stores etc, before D-Day and, after moving to Hurn on 5th August, transferred to a forward airfield in France on 8th August.
In October 1944, the Short Strirling IV's of numbers 295 and 570 Squadrons, R.A.F. moved to Rivenhall, having recovered from damage and losses over Arnhem during Operation Market Garden, and prepared for Operation Varsity, the crossing of the Rhine, when they towed gliders from Rivenhall.
The Stirlings remained at the base until January 1946, when the squadrons were disbanded, and the airfield became a camp for displaced persons.
Marconi took over part of the site in 1956.
I've attached a pic of one of the 397th's Marauders and, apart from the link provided by Micdrow, you will find more information at Rivenhall 2009 and also at Index of /uk_marauder_bases. There is also another web-site, which I think is called marauder men.com, which covers everything to do with the B26 and the men associated with it, including links to veterans associations. It might also be worthwhile checking on the existance of Squadron Associations for the two R.A.F. Squadrons.
Hope this helps a bit.
Terry.

 

[Micdrow]

Thanks Paul, that's saved me looking for one of the sources!

Your welcome Terry and great job!!!

 

[Airframes]

Thanks Paul. Just noticed, one of the links I typed in differently, came out as the same as yours!

 

[mikamee14]

"Dogfights" on the History Channel has alot.