The center’s primary objective is to honor the individuals who served in these squadrons, both in the air and on the ground, by showcasing their personal stories and experiences.
Additionally, it aims to shed light on the challenges they faced in integrating into post-war Britain while preserving their cultural heritage.
The center features a special exhibition area displaying previously unseen photographs, offering visitors a unique glimpse into this historical period.
The former wartime Airmen’s Mess has undergone a transformation to accommodate the center’s exhibits and activities.
Mieczysław Frąckiewicz, 104, who also goes by the name of John Franklin, was a wireless operator with No. 304 Polish Bomber Squadron. On Wednesday, he took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the center.
“We lost crews on the bombing missions, but that was the war. Always, always chin up, and that was the main thing,” he told the BBC.
Up until 1946, RAF Bomber Command and training units, including the Polish Air Force, utilized RAF Ingham, later known as RAF Cammeringham, as a pivotal Royal Air Force station.
Notably, the No. 300 Polish Bomber Squadron was the first squadron stationed at RAF Ingham, arriving in May 1942 from RAF Hemswell.
The center’s opening to the public marks a significant milestone in honoring the legacy of the Polish Bomber Squadrons and ensuring their stories continue to inspire future generations.
