It was Denis’s 90th Birthday today!
As part of his Birthday treat, and in keeping with Dad’s RAF experience, we took him to the IBCC (International Bomber Command Centre) in nearby Canwick Hill, Lincoln.
Opened in 2011, the aim of the IBCC is to tell the personal stories of service men and women of RAF Bomber Command, ground crews and civilians impacted by the bombing campaigns on both sides of the conflict during the Second World War.
It’s an impressive building inside and out, so there’s lots to see. But before all of that, like the Planes themselves, we needed re-fuelling. And the Restaurant turned out to be as comprehensive as the Museum itself!
The restaurant was busy and that meant a slightly longer wait than we would have liked – but it was worth it! Omelettes for Ann and her Dad (large and fluffy! – the eggs, not the eaters!) whilst I wrestled with the themed ‘Bomber Breakfast‘ – a monster of a full-English where the Toast would have doubled as the wings on a Lancaster! Yummy 😋
The Museum itself consists of two floors where everything to do with Bomber Command’s activities was explained in great detail. It was difficult to take photos inside, but take it from us, it’s worth a visit even if you just have a passing interest in WWII history.
The best part was probably the gigantic screen that showed a detailed map of Europe. On the left hand side, a rolling timeline of WWII, month-by-month, year-by-year – and on the map itself, a ‘dot’ to show every bomb that was dropped. Fascinating stuff, especially once the Americans entered the War – as this had a direct impact on the quantity of bombs dispatched (especially on Germany!).
With both floors covered, it was outside to take the short walk to the Memorial to all those who died. This was an eye-catching piece fashioned in the shape of an aircraft wing. It was complemented by commemorative stones to the left of the path listing many who paid the ultimate sacrifice…
…and once we’d arrived at the Memorial, there were multiple panels commemorating everyone who had died during bombing raids – not just WWII. We also got a superb view of Lincoln itself…
All-in-all, it turned out to be an excellent trip. Denis had enjoyed himself (these days, it’s one of his rare days out), and we’d learned a lot more about the whole ‘Bomber Harris’ debate and the wider impact of bombing raids in general.
Happy Birthday Denis! 🎂
Blogging since 2004, about the significant people, places, sights and sounds of my world. Now dabbling with retirement! 👍😁
