Exeter Airport commemorates D-Day role with 80th anniversary exhibition

Exeter Airport is commemorating its critical role in the Allied D-Day invasion of Europe with a special two-day exhibition marking the 80th anniversary of the historic event. 

Hosted by local historians Chris Wiseman and Jerry Bird, the exhibition runs from 11am to 7pm on June 5 and 6, offering a deep dive into the airport's storied past during World War II.

Visitors to the exhibition will find a treasure trove of photographs, presentations, and memorabilia detailing the significant contributions of RAF Exeter, now Exeter Airport, during the war. 

Chris Wiseman, the creator of the RAF Exeter and Exeter Airport Memories websites, and Jerry Bird, a researcher with a long professional association with the airport, will provide expert insights into the wartime operations and stories from that era.

Stephen Wiltshire, managing director of Exeter Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “Chris and Jerry are very much our local experts when it comes to Exeter Airport’s wartime role, and we’re delighted that they have put together this fascinating exhibition for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.”

During the war, RAF Exeter was a Class 1 Fighter Station, hosting several fighter squadrons between 1940 and 1945. 

The airfield played a pivotal role during the Battle of Britain and the Exeter Blitz of Spring 1942.

 In April 1944, in the lead-up to the Normandy landings, the United States Army Air Force (USAAF) took over the airfield, transforming it into a base for the 440th Troop Carrier Group.

On D-Day, June 6, 1944, scores of aircraft from Exeter Airport were instrumental in dropping hundreds of paratroopers from the 101st Airborne Division into Normandy, supporting the initial phases of the invasion. 

Following the successful establishment of Allied forces in France, the airfield facilitated the transport of supplies across the Channel and the evacuation of wounded soldiers back to England.

After the USAAF's departure in late 1944, RAF Exeter resumed its operations until the end of 1946. 

Today, Exeter Airport is a bustling regional gateway, connecting travellers to 25 destinations across nine countries and serving as a hub for the South West aviation industry.

The exhibition is open to the public with a nominal parking fee of £2 per day in Car Park 4.

Visitors can also enjoy refreshments at the airport’s Cove Café, which will be open on both days.

Chris Wiseman and Jerry Bird will be on hand throughout the exhibition, ready to share their extensive knowledge and passion for Exeter Airport’s wartime history. 

This event promises a unique and engaging opportunity to honour and remember the vital contributions of those who served at RAF Exeter during one of the most significant military operations of the 20th century.