Barry Wallis gave an authoritative talk to introduce us to International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) which opened earlier this year on Canwick Hill, Lincoln, to recognise and remember the men and women who served in Bomber Commands throughout the world.
From an initial dream in 2009 of the then Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Tony Worth CVO, to recognise the significant contribution by Lincolnshire to the outcome of WWII, the centre has developed into one which preserves the heritage of all those involved in conflict across 62 different countries. Now set out in 3 distinct areas on Canwich Hill, it comprises of:
The Chadwick Centre which, through interactive displays, allows both adults and children to learn via archived material and personal histories.
The Peace Gardens offer quiet contemplative space in 10 acres of landscaping.
The Memorial Spire and walls command stunning views across Lincoln and particularly Lincoln Cathedral – a sighting point for crews returning home in WWII.
The constant supply of personal material from family archives, is the backbone of the IBCC ‘s comprehensive digitalized archive which enables both personal and academic research.
Barry, one of the 500-strong team of volunteers from 9 countries vital to the Centres work, gave an interesting talk to an audience some of whom had been to the Centre previously but others were planning a trip - his Introduction to Bomber Command was therefore a successful event.