Norfolk in the Second World War

Norfolk was truly a ‘front-line county’ during the Second World War. Its people served in all branches of the forces, and the threat of invasion and the reality of air raids affected everyone. Alongside Norfolk men in the Norfolk Regiment in France, Singapore and in the Far East, this book examines those serving in the Navy, Merchant Navy and the Air Force as well as the vital role played by women in the armed forces, the Women’s Land Army, and many other jobs. The daily life of children and adults is also explored, including the effects of food and clothes rationing, measures taken to prepare the community in case of invasion, and life at school in wartime. Two important themes in wartime Norfolk were those of child evacuees and of the United States Army Air Force. Norfolk people experienced both sides of the evacuee situation: children came to the county from the London area, while children from the Norfolk coast were evacuated to the Midlands. The American presence in the county has left a rich archive of personal papers and photographs, now held at the Norfolk Record Office, along with diaries and letters of Norfolk people. Beautifully illustrated with contemporary photographs, this book draws on this material and reminiscences of those in the county to enhance the enthralling story of life during the Second World War.