On Tuesday 20th October around twenty members reported promptly for duty at 1000hrs at ADRM Neatishead. After booking in, it was straight to the NAAFI (‘Crumbs’) for a brew in the best traditions of the Service.
Suitably refreshed we marched down into the Second World War Room for two lectures on the development of RADAR here and in other establishments across East Anglia using plotting tables, models and actual original equipment from the war. It left us with much admiration for the men and women of that period who coordinated the accelerated development through into active service - ultimately winning against almost impossible odds.
As we were running a little behind the clock for the Cold War Rooms we moved into the Jaguar and Tornado Cockpit Room. We must thank Malcolm for enlightening us further as to their individual roles. Pauline tried the Tornado for size but couldn’t find reverse gear or the handbrake and decided to stick with the Audi - Robbie however still thought the ejector seat might have some advantages.
We all then went back up to ‘Crumbs’ to enjoy our buffet lunch and a chat. Afterwards most of us went down into the Cold War Rooms for a further interesting, but slightly chilling, lecture on the the almost seamless transition into the Cold War. Again, Neatishead continued playing a pivotal role in the air defence of the UK - and just a short distance away that continues to this day.
NB If anyone is interested there is a BBC movie 'Castles in the Sky' (2014) about Robert Watson-Watt's team developing the world's first radar - still available on some platforms.
Comments
Excellent day - thanks Graham for organising
Indeed, a very enjoyable visit; thank you, Graham.
Both volunteer speakers’ knowledge (and Malcolm) was amazing, and one could feel their passion for this period of history.