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Barrage balloon, RAF Stanmore 1939
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Barrage balloon, RAF Stanmore 1939
Earl of Athlone inspecting 907 (Balloon) Squadron, Stanmore, 1939
The Royal Air Force Museum is Britain's only national museum dedicated wholly to aviation
Media ID 690659
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Royal Air Force World War Two Balloons
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, His Royal Highness The Earl of Athlone, inspects the members of the 907 (Balloon) Squadron at RAF Stanmore during the early days of World War II. The image, captured by acclaimed photographer Charles E. Brown, offers a glimpse into the vital role of the Royal Air Force's (RAF) Balloon Command during this pivotal period in history. The Earl of Athlone, a decorated military officer and a close relative of King George VI, is seen here in his full military regalia, inspecting the immaculately dressed soldiers and their equipment with a stern yet compassionate expression. The scene is set against the backdrop of a vast expanse of open field, dotted with the familiar shape of barrage balloons. These balloons, tethered to the ground with heavy ropes, were a common sight during the early years of the war, providing an essential defense against enemy aircraft. The 907 (Balloon) Squadron, based at RAF Stanmore in Middlesex, was one of several balloon units established by the RAF to protect London and other key strategic locations from air raids. The squadron's personnel, a mix of regular soldiers and civilian volunteers, worked tirelessly to maintain the balloons, ensuring they were always ready to be launched in response to an air raid warning. This photograph not only serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women of the RAF during World War II but also highlights the innovative and often overlooked role of barrage balloons in the defense of the United Kingdom. The image, preserved in the extensive collection of the RAF Museum, continues to inspire awe and admiration for the courage and determination of those who served during this dark chapter in history.
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