RAF Mildenhall in west Suffolk celebrates 90th anniversary

Tens of thousands of people gathered to witness the dedication, as well as the start of the MacRoberson Air Race on October 20, 1934,

which began in Mildenhall and ended in Melbourne.

Some 90 years later, the base – now home to the US servicemen and women of the 100th Air Refueling Wing – remains a huge part of

Suffolk life.

“RAF Mildenhall has been an essential part of life in and around Mildenhall for so many years,” stated Ian Shipp, the West Suffolk

Council representative for Mildenhall Kingsway & Market.

“So many residents now have jobs thanks to it. With its military members and their families residing in our cities and villages, it has

greatly enriched our community’s variety by fostering numerous new connections and bringing families together through several

weddings.

Cllr Shipp said the American community helps support local businesses and encourages visitors from all over the country who come to

the town to spot aircraft at the base.

Crowds at the base “I remember the spectacular Mildenhall Air Shows of years gone by which attracted a quarter of a million people over the bank holiday

weekend,” he said.

“Over the years there has always been a special bond between the RAF Mildenhall and our local community and I am proud to have

been a small part of that bond.”

RAF Mildenhall received its first operational unit in November 1934 and has an extensive history of missions.

In 1939, six hours after the official declaration of war on Germany, three Wellington Bombers from No. 149 Squadron took off from

the base to bomb battleships in the Kiel Canal.

On March 22, 1944, Lancaster and Halifax bombers from the base took part in the last major raid marking the end of what was known

as the “Battle of Berlin”.

Lancaster Bombers from No. 15 and No. 622 Squadrons were also involved in D-Day operations when they struck targets along

Hitler’s Atlantic Wall on June 6, 1944.

RAF Mildenhall has been home to the United States Airforce since 1950.

Richard Alecock, who represents Mildenhall Great Heath on West Suffolk Council, said: “This milestone has been not only an

opportunity for reflection but also a celebration of the strong bond between our community and the airbase.

“It has been truly wonderful to witness RAF Mildenhall’s active engagement with a variety of community groups, which has

significantly enhanced the relationship between the base and local residents.

“This collaboration has provided people in Mildenhall, Beck Row, West Row and the wider community with numerous opportunities

to participate in meaningful activities that strengthen our community ties.”

Plane at the base He Together, we respect our history while encouraging civic engagement and pride.

“Seeing so many residents participate in the ongoing festivities has been really encouraging, and it has been a great chance for us all to

recognise our aviation history and the priceless contributions made by the USAF to Mildenhall.

“I applaud RAF Mildenhall and the local residents and community groups for all pulling together throughout this anniversary year.”

Mildenhall Queensway councillor Andy Neal said: “The base has made Mildenhall famous all over the world.

“The American dollar contributes an incalculable amount of money to the local economy, which is what sustains our high street.”

According to him, people who live off-base are accepted and integrate into the community by attending nearby schools.

He went on: “To watch the planes begin the race to Australia, 70,000 people gathered at Mildenhall. Mildenhall gained a place in

aviation history when the King and Queen attended the race start.

“Mildenhall as a town has celebrated this 90th anniversary alongside local villages with events throughout the year. The USAF have

supported this historic landmark and its been a pleasure for the local groups to engage with them.”

The now-defunct 306 Strategic Wing moved its headquarters from Ramstein AB, Germany to RAF Mildenhall on June 30, 1978.

More recently, in 1982, the British government authorised the permanent storage of SR-71 “Blackbird” aircraft at the facility.

At a gathering for RAF officials and visitors last week, the Tudor Crown, a new station crest, was unveiled.

The ceremony will commemorate the 90th anniversary of RAF Mildenhall and include the crest on the tails of all 100th ARW KC-135

Stratotankers.

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