USAF Flypast at Cambridge

Martin Bull · #1 (**permalink**) May 26th, 2003, 02:39 PM

I wasn't there to see it (

) but I thought our friends in the USA might like to know that 4 x F15s from Lakenheath plus B-17 'Sally B' from Duxford performed an immaculate flypast today during the annual remembrance ceremony at the US War Cemetery at Madingley, near Cambridge.

Erich · #2 (**permalink**) May 26th, 2003, 03:04 PM

What ! no P-51 escort ? !

just the same I am sure it was quyite impressive and surely brought back memoires to those still living that remembered the familiar rumble of those B-17 engines.

thanks Martin

we are expecting something similiar today at 11.11 hrs a fly over of at least two F-18's which cirlce our valley. My home sits high enough I have a view to the west so I can watch them come full circle as I have done in the past......wow !

~E

Greg A · #3 (**permalink**) May 26th, 2003, 09:44 PM

Seems like they weren't taking any chances with those 262's, they brought out the F-15s for escort duty.

Greg

Bill Smith · #4 (**permalink**) May 27th, 2003, 04:33 AM

Erich -

Although I was posted to work today, my wife informs me that two F15's flew directly overhead, not nearby, but directly over the house. Wonder if this is the same two you are in reference to. Perhaps from the Portland ANG?

Bill

Bill Smith · #5 (**permalink**) May 27th, 2003, 04:36 AM

Excuse me -

Hit the wrong button.

And Martin, provided I had the opportunity to review all of the old USAAF bases over your way, I would feel like I was walking amongst honored spirits. I have always enjoyed seeing a B-17 fly over. You are truly fortunate to be able to see the remainders of this time. By the way, I have read that much has been plowed under. Just how much of the old USAAF bases remain?

Bill

Martin Bull · #6 (**permalink**) May 27th, 2003, 04:47 AM

Excuse rush, Bill - typing in a hurry before leaving for airport & vacation : -

Not as much remains to be seen as, say, 20 years ago when there was a lot to be found

You now really do have to 'know where to look'.

The good news is that, due to the efforts of dedicated volunteers and renewed public interest, some very fine museums have been created using restored control towers and other buildings, such as those at Framlingham, Boxted and ( especially ) Thorpe Abbotts. For anyone interested in 8th history, Thorpe is an absolute must !

http://www.controltowers.co.uk/T-V/Thorpe_Abbotts.htm

Erich · #7 (**permalink**) May 27th, 2003, 05:16 AM

yep those two babies cranked it up over my place and flew north and east. They come from the Military airport in Klamath Falls.

Martin, one day I'm coming over for an extended tour of the former RAF and US bomber/fighter bases and with plenty of film to boot and with a large pocket of change to visit PRO. Quite envious of Crazy when he makes the trip......

~E