A new heritage Centre at RAF Ingham has been opened to commemorate the contributions of the Polish Air Force Bomber Squadrons during World War II in a ceremony attended by a 104-year-old aircrew survivor.
The groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind globally, pays homage to the gallant men and women who served alongside the RAF, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and sacrifice.
RAF Ingham (later known as RAF Cammeringham) was a pivotal Royal Air Force station from 1942 and 1944, hosting RAF Bomber Command operations and subsequently serving as a training hub for both the RAF and Polish Air Force units until 1946.
Among the attendees was 104-year-old Mieczyslaw Frackiewicz (John Franklin), who’d been a wireless operator with 304 Squadron. He attended the ceremony with his daughter and cut the ribbon to make the centre’s official opening. He said: “I would like to officially thank all those behind today’s event and the volunteers who have worked for this – I am so grateful for everything they have done.”
Behind the endeavour lies 14 years’ effort to transform an old farm storage building, once the wartime Airmen’s Mess, into a beacon of remembrance and education.
Chairman of RAF Ingham Heritage Centre, Geoff Burton, said: “The official opening was an incredible success, with guests from Poland and descendants from around the UK being able to be present and to experience our wonderful exhibition.
“You couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day; the weather was great, and we managed to have the flypast by a Spitfire from BBMF.
“So many of descendants became very emotional on seeing photographs of their loved-ones or were simply enveloped in the atmosphere. So many met old friends or made new ones, and found that unbeknown to them, they had bonds and connections where their parents/grandparents had flown or worked together on the Polish Squadrons.
“Praise and thanks must go to our incredible team of volunteers, who have worked tirelessly over many years, to make this project a reality.
“We have created this Centre to ensure the memories and sacrifices of these young men, many of whom gave their lives, to ensure we have the freedoms, we so take for granted these days.”
The Heritage Centre stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the courage and resilience, ensuring the valiant deeds of the past resonate with future generations. As visitors step through its doors they embark on a journey through history, honouring the spirit of those who served with unwavering devotion.
The ceremony included speeches from invited guests, including the Lord Lieutenant, Polish Consulate in Manchester, Michał Mazurek. Wreaths were placed at the centre’s war memorial by guests including representatives of the Polish armed forces and members of the RAF.
The centre, on the B1398 near Filligham will be open as follows:
- Thursdays, 10am to 3pm
- Saturdays, 10am to 3pm
- Sundays, 10am to 3pm
