Dunkeswell to Unveil New Stained‑Glass Memorial Honouring USAAF, US Navy and RAF Airmen

A major new memorial is being created at St Nicholas’ Church, Dunkeswell, to honour the USAAF, US Navy and RAF airmen who served at Dunkeswell Airfield during the Second World War. The commemorative stained‑glass window, designed to honour their courage and sacrifice, will be unveiled on 14 June 2026, coinciding with the annual American Sunday.

Dunkeswell Airfield played a vital role in the Battle of the Atlantic, serving as the only US Navy base on British soil. From this rural Devon airfield, American and British crews flew long and dangerous missions to counter the threat of Nazi U‑boats. Many of those who served here never returned.

The new window will depict a US B‑24 bomber and feature a rare and poignant artefact: a piece of Perspex recovered from the nose cone of the Liberator bomber that crashed locally, with the loss of six crew members. This unique addition ensures the memorial is not only symbolic but also physically connected to the men it commemorates.

The project includes designing and creating the stained-glass window, along with necessary repairs to the nearby stone and leadwork. The total estimated cost is £40,000. The organising committee is now reaching out to individuals, local businesses, and heritage supporters who might be interested in contributing to this effort. 

General donations would also always be welcome.

“We want to create a lasting tribute to the young men who served so bravely from Dunkeswell,” the organisers said. “Their story is part of our village’s history, and this memorial will ensure it is never forgotten.”

All sponsors will be acknowledged in a special Dunkeswell Parish supplement and in the official launch programme for the unveiling.

For further information or to support the project, please contact: Peter Girling MBE - stnicholas@dunkeswell.org.uk