1937 Empire Air Day Programme
RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme
Pages of the RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme
Pages of the RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme
Pages of the RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme, detailing the buildings and exhibits
Pages of the RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme
Pages of the RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme
Inside cover of the RAF Kenley 1937 Empire Air Day Programme
On 29th May, 1937, RAF Stations across the country threw open their gates to the public for Empire Air Day. Here are a few pages from the 1937 programme.
The event was also featured in the Surrey Mirror and County Post. (Friday 4th June, 1937). Here is an extract from their report:
“HUGE CROWD AT KENLEY R.A.F. STATION”
“Skilled Pilots in Thrilling Displays”
“It seemed as if all roads led to the Kenley Station of the Royal Air Force Station last Saturday afternoon. It was “Empire Air Day,” and this station was one if the fifty three throughout the British Isles, opened to the public. Quite early in the afternoon motor cars began to arrive from all parts of East Surrey and much further afield, from Kent and Sussex…….
It was generally agreed by the airmen on duty at the aerodrome for the purpose of parking cars, they had never previously had to deal with so many. Then there were thousands of pedestrians who found their way to the spot by rail, buses, cycles and on foot.
…
“The people were free to wonder amongst the buildings, and they were able to see fighting aeroplanes in parts and sections, and in full trim ready to take to the air. They saw how the engines are controlled, and also an aeroplane with engine “full out,” the machine gun in action firing through the propeller, the stream of bullets being synchronised to the revolution of the blades. They saw parachutes in pieces and in complete condition.
“The barrack rooms including the men’s sleeping quarters,were open and visitors were able to note that strict attention is given to order and cleanliness. The stores, dining hall, cook house etc. also showed tyat everything is conducted on hygienic principles and the reading and games room enabled the visitors to realise that the men have facilities for recreation.”
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