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Battle of Britain exhibition building tells its own story

IWM Duxford has completed the installation of a new small display in the annexe entrance of the Battle of Britain exhibition, which for the first time, tells the story of this important aircraft hangar and the role it played during wartime. 

Built at the end of the First World War, the hangar was designed for storing, maintaining and repairing military aircraft.  It was used by No.19 Squadron between the wars and became the first home to the RAF’s legendary Supermarine Spitfire in 1938.  

From 1943 to 1945, like the rest of Duxford, the hangar was used by the 78th Fighter Group of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF); it became their Group Headquarters. This new display area was once used by the 78th Fighter Group as a briefing room, where nearly 50 pilots would gather to discover their mission for the day. 

The first phase of work allows visitors to see footage of one of those briefings in the area where it once took place.  Complementing the display is a replica wartime blackboard, containing all the information the pilots needed for one of their missions.  Visitors can even try on a replica A2 flying jacket and USAAF cap similar to those worn by pilots in the wartime footage. 

78th Fighter Group veteran Ernie Russell remembered his first mission briefing in this hangar, “The room droned like a beehive – everyone was talking until there was a loud, “Ten’ shun!” from the back of the room.  Chairs rattled as we all jumped to attention; you could have heard a pin drop.  Footsteps echoed on the floor and then, “At ease men”: we all dropped into our seats... my first briefing for a combat mission was impressive.” 

This fascinating insight into this building’s past complements Historic Duxford, our new permanent exhibition which tells the personal stories of the men and women who worked and lived at Duxford during its time as a busy RAF fighter base.  There’s also a heritage trail which guides you around the historic site. Eight interactive posts feature audio memories from veterans who worked at RAF Duxford.

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Duxford, Cambridgeshire

Discover the history of war time Britain at the Imperial War Museum Duxford. It houses large exhibits, including the aircraft and military and naval vehicles...

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Military Museums