‘Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few’. Those were the words of Winston Churchill, speaking about the incredible bravery and strategic victory of the RAF and the many pilots who fought in defence of Great Britain in the Battle of Britain.
The importance of a successful outcome in their fight against the infinitely bigger German Luftwaffe was key to foiling Hitler’s plans to invade Britain.
To commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, an exhibition has been organised by Gosport Aviation Society and Gosport Borough Council.
It will take place on the Mezzanine Floor of the Gosport Discovery Centre, Gosport, and will run from Saturday 11 September to Monday 20 September.
“During the Second World War, some of our older residents may have seen or maybe been involved in events taking place in the Borough,” said Cllr Derek Kimber, Chairman of Gosport Council’s Civic & Commemorative Events Sub Board. “The thousands of service personnel leaving Stokes Bay for D Day, the Mulberry Harbours being built at Stokes Bay and even the ships being degaussed there.”
Many too would have witnessed the Luftwaffe as they flew across the Channel on bombing raids. Including those made during August 1940, when during the Battle of Britain, Gosport’s Grange airfield received several hits.
On the 12 August shortly after midday the airfield was dive bombed. Luckily only 1 person was slightly injured. Unfortunately things got much worse and attacks on the 16 and 18 August left much more devastation behind.
“We hope that everyone will pop into the Discovery Centre and check out the exhibition which has kindly been put together by members of the Gosport Aviation Society,” added Derek. “It will help the younger generation understand the importance of the Battle of Britain, and give a local perspective to this historic battle.”
The Mayor of Gosport, Councillor Roger Allen, will officially open the event on Saturday 11 September at 2pm
