Airfield History

Just on the other side of the airfield, in the far distance, a B‑17 known as “Caroline” exploded on the ground on 23 June 1943. A bomb‑loading error caused several bombs to detonate inside the aircraft. Twenty‑four men were killed, including one British civilian who happened to be cycling past on his way to work. It was arguably the worst ground accident to afflict the Eighth Air Force in England. In 2014, members of the museum constructed a memorial on the site of the tragedy.

In the T2 hangar on the Great Yeldham side of the airfield, well‑known entertainer Bing Crosby performed for around 4,000 people on 2 September 1944. Men could be seen hanging from the rafters to get a better view of the show. Many local villagers were invited to attend. He gave a two‑hour performance in what is now just a copse of trees.

It is entirely possible that one of the hardstands in front of the hangar — to the left of the control tower and often marked today by discoloured soil or crop growth — served as the location for the naming ceremony of a B‑17 called “Stage Door Canteen.” It was christened on 21 April 1944 by Mary Churchill, daughter of Winston Churchill. The ceremony was attended by several famous guests, including Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh.

Celebrities continued to arrive at Ridgewell. Three months later, film star Edward G. Robinson visited the airfield to christen a B‑17 named “Happy Bottom,” in honour of his wife Gladys, whom he jokingly referred to as “Glad‑ass.”

James Cagney also appeared one day, entirely unannounced. An address was made over the airfield tannoy asking the men to assemble at the control tower. Cagney received a loud and enthusiastic ovation.

These important shows gave the men a connection to the outside world and helped lift morale.

Inside one of the three hangars, a B-17 receives needed repairs.

Bing Crosby sings for thousands of people. The view from the rafters was good!