MDPGA Wethersfield - Use By The RAF Bomber Command

Use By The RAF Bomber Command

Soon after the Americans departed for France, Wethersfield was returned to RAF control, becoming the home for 196 and 299 Squadrons, 38 Group, RAF Bomber Command. These RAF squadrons, equipped with the Stirling bomber, flew special missions such as dropping mines outside German ports and dropping spies deep behind enemy lines at night. Deterioration of the runways meant both squadrons moved out in January 1945 while repairs were carried out.

After repairs were completed, the USAAF IX Troop Carrier Command 316th Troop Carrier Group moved in from RAF Cottesmore. On 24 March 1945, during Operation Varsity (the crossing of the Rhine), 81 American C-47 aircraft took off from RAF Wethersfield with paratroopers of the 6th Airborne Division, dropping east of the Rhine and establishing a bridgehead. After the operation, the 316th moved back to Cottesmore. In April 1946 a Royal Air Force Heavy Transport Conversion Unit was based at Wethersfield, remaining until July, when the station was closed and placed in a care and maintenance status.

During the late 1940s the base was used as a winter camping ground for Chipperfield's Circus. Elephants were housed in the maintenance hangars and the huts became homes for other circus animals.