The Old Airfield- RAF East Kirkby

A poem by Walter Scott, read by Christine Panton and visuals by Phillip Panton.
The poem was written about RAF East Kirkby by a ground crew veteran who was based at East Kirkby during WW2. This video was originally produced in photographic slides but we felt it is so evocative it must be made available to a wider audience.
The colour photographs were taken at the derelict RAF East Kirkby site in the early 1980's before it became the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre.
www.lincsaviation.co.uk

[@kohedunn]

We will remember them..

[@williamkennedy5492]

I am so glad that i have known a few Lanc crews pilots, radio ops, and gunners, such brave men some of whom never came back from ops, We must always remember that simple saying, they gave their today for our tomorrow , thank you so much.

[@lanckyman314]

Remind,s me of the time,s i spent alone on the airfield. Great post..

[@paulmarkham4479]

I feel humbled. Bless you lads.

[@Rogu379]

Absolutely love this place, can’t believe how far its come from the pics of 79 when I was born to what it is now.

[@garysimpson3900]

So evocative. In memory of those who flew from this base & never returned.

[@DaiElsan]

Was there in 2014 for the 3 Lands. The poem does it justice, what East Kirby has become since these photos were taken is a testament to perseverance, and dedication to a glorious cause. One day I hope to visit again. The day Jane fits once more. Keep up the good work.

[@jazzkazz]

Lovely video - I like that poem by Walt Scott too - very emotive words

[@TheGalwayFarmer]

Fantastic atmospheric photos

[@Hunter-gq9er]

Very moving. Thank you.

[@silksheen100]

The poem was one of several written by Walt Scott, a radio operator (not ground crew as stated) on Lancaster bombers with 630 Squadron that was formed and based at RAF East Kirkby. I corresponded with Walt during his retirement about my father, an F/E, with 630 Squadron. He and the crew failed to return on the night of 21-22 May 1944. www.airmen.dk/a014240-DW9.htm With greatful thanks to the Panton brothers for keeping the memory of their brother and all who were associated with East Kirkby alive, especially at the annual memorial service each July.

[@lordpitnolen2196]

Thank you. Very emotional.

[@angelsone-five7912]

Very nice if sad and poignant.

[@robhaytonairshowvideos9853]

Great stuff thanks for posting

[@stratac30]

I wonder how many of those crews survived the war?

[@ChickenNugget-dk9hp]

I’m not sure of exact numbers but if you go in the old fire station there’s a chapel with the names of all lost