Our next Members zoom Meeting is getting close, being on the 5th July and featuring what promises to be a very interesting talk.

‘RAF Burtonwood’s Contribution to the Cold War’ by Aldon Ferguson from the RAF Burtonwood Association

A summary of the talk:

RAF Burtonwood was the largest air base in the UK in WWII, occupied by over 18,000 US personnel.  It was responsible for the provision and maintenance of aircraft and associated equipment to the US Army Air Force and was the last US base in the UK to close in 1946.  It was requested back by the US military in 1948 as part of their deterrent as a result of Soviet growth and threats.  During the Cold War It was massively enlarged with an extended runway, new operations building, massive new warehouse and maintenance facilities and family housing.  The base supported the USAF in Europe and North Africa until 1964 when continued US defence cuts caused draw down and closure.  After lying empty for two years the US Army took occupation and used it for storing equipment in the event of war in Europe and continued this role until 1993 when it closed.  This talk illustrates all roles played by the base, the impact on the local community, the large number of satellite bases and the contribution to the success of the Cold War played by this massive and dynamic air force base.

Short Bio of Aldon Ferguson

Aldon Ferguson was brought up in Formby, forging a link with aviation via the air cadets at RAF Woodvale.  He joined the RAF and served in the reserves for many years whilst qualifying as a Chartered Surveyor.  Aldon started researching into UK military history and wrote many books and magazine articles, was consulted by radio and TV producers and became a respected expert on RAF history.  His professional work took him to the Former Soviet Union where he operated for 17 years giving a unique insight into what could have been a potential enemy.  He has written two books on RAF Burtonwood, formed the Burtonwood Association and edits their quarterly magazine, Burtonwood Times, now in its 35^th year of publication.  He now works in conjunction with the RAF Air Historical Branch chronicling threatened RAF stations in great detail for the historical record and understanding of future generations.

If you you would like to join us for our July Zoom Meeting and hear not only about the Tunnels, but to hear the fascinating story of ‘RAF Burtonwood’s Contribution to the Cold War’ then please head to our meeting page to register