Thruxton
Airfield
IWM, English Heritage Collection
Object Number - RAF_106G_UK_839_RP_3088 - Aerial photograph of Thruxton airfield looking south, a T2 hangar is at the top of the airfield, 25 September 1945. Photograph taken by No. 544...
Thruxton was developed for use by Army Co-Operation aircraft, before being upgraded to a bomber airfield. The 366th Fighter Group moved in in early 1944, flying missions in support of the build up to D-Day, before moving to the continent with other elements of the Ninth Air Force in June.
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English Heritage's Record Description
A former World War Two military airfield. The wartime airfield was opened in 1941 and consisted of three concrete runways with Type T2 , Blister and Bessoneau aircraft hangars. It was originally intended to be a satellite airfield for Andover. It became a base for the Royal Air Force's Army Cooperation Command and in particular paratroop training: in 1942 Thruxton participated in the first operational paratroop drop in the UK . From March to June 1944 the USAAF 9th Air Force IX Fighter Command 366th Fighter Group used Thruxton for raids leading up to D-Day. After the war military use ceased and the military airfield closed in 1946. At the beginning of the 21st century, the airfield is used for private civilian flying and as a motor racing circuit.
People
- Military/Civilian/Mascot: Military
- Unit: 366th Fighter Group 390th Fighter Squadron
- Service Numbers: 34024766 at enlistment, then O-803479
- Highest Rank: Second Lieutenant
- Role/Job: Pilot