Debden, 2 miles south east of Saffron Walden, was a pre-war RAF fighter station, and was a sector station for No.11 Group during the Battle of Britain. Eight different RAF squadrons were stationed here in that hectic period. The airfield was attacked several times. From may 1942 until september 1942, 71 Eagle Sqn was stationed here with Spitfires, and was transferred to the 8th AAF. From september 1942 until september 1945, 71 Eagle Squadron became 334th, 335th, and 336th Squadrons of the 4th FG. In januari 1943, these squadrons converted to P-47 Thunderbolts, and again converted to P-51 Mustangs in 1944. In october 1944, 616 Squadron was stationed here with Meteors. It then became a technical training school and after the RAF left it became an army barracks.
by Cees Donker (2005-04-30 08:29:33)
by Cees Donker (2005-04-30 08:29:33)