D-Day 80: Special Events at The Yorkshire Air Museum

In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, the Yorkshire Air Museum (YAM) has scheduled a series of events on Thursday, June 6th 2024 to honor this historic occasion. The recent successful test run of the engines on the museum’s Douglas Dakota marks the beginning of a memorable day filled with activities and tributes.

Schedule of Events:

6am: Radio Broadcast Museum volunteer Ken Sanderson will broadcast on a genuine World War II Halifax bomber radio transmitter/receiver, connecting with other radio enthusiasts in the UK and Normandy. This early morning event sets the tone for a day of remembrance and connection.

11.30am: Service of Remembrance Visitors are invited to meet in the Chapel for a solemn Service of Remembrance conducted by the YAM’s honorary chaplain, the Rev. Charles ‘Taff’ Morgan MBE. This service will provide an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made during the D-Day landings.

12.1pm: The Last Post A bugler will play the Last Post, a poignant tribute to those who served and fell during the D-Day operations.

12:30pm: Dakota Engine Run Witness the power of history as the engines of the YAM’s iconic Douglas Dakota are run. This paratrooper transport aircraft played a crucial role in the D-Day landings and this demonstration honors its legacy and the bravery of those who flew it.

With the exception of the early morning radio broadcast, all visitors are welcome to participate in these events.

Explore the museum’s new D-Day Displays

In addition to the scheduled events, visitors can explore the new D-Day-related exhibits across the YAM site, themed “Elvington 44/45: The Fight For Liberty.”

Dakota Display: Delve into the history of the Dakota and its crucial role in the D-Day landings. The YAM’s Dakota has been freshly repainted in its original D-Day colors, providing a vivid glimpse into the past.

Halifax Bomber: Learn about the mighty Handley Page Halifax bomber’s significant contributions to Operation Overlord, including its capability to tow tanks through the skies, showcasing the engineering marvels of the time. Elvington’s French Connection: Discover the deep ties between Elvington and the D-Day operations, highlighting the contributions and collaborations that were pivotal to the success of the landings.

For more information, visit www.yorkshireairmuseum.org.