The USAF vacated RAF Bentwaters in 1993. I was a military dependant (we were stationed there 1975 - 79).
This video was filmed in 2001 in Hi8 format on a return visit with the main focus on the Weapons Storage Areas (WSA), Guard Tower, Entry Control Building but also includes other areas of the flight line with associated buildings.
The tape was long forgotten and is presented as it was filmed in 'basic' format - sorry about the camera settings being visible on screen. There is no commentary though a soundtrack has been added to mask the noise of the wind picked up on the recording.
Only 8 years after the USAF left, the infrastructure on this side of the base was showing signs of neglect. The domestic side has faired better with the construction of new homes - very few buildings of my era survive save for the former Chapel and the original 'Tobacco' Base Housing being notable examples.
PLEASE NOTE: The visit was authorised by the Site Owners. There is limited access to the operational side of the base as many new businesses occupy buildings formerly used by the USAF to include the superb Bentwaters Cold War Museum. There is no public access to the runway and beyond (including the WSA) without appropriate authorisation from the Site Owners.
Please forgive a little bit of self indulgence at the end of the video. The runway was there, so I used it.
This video is dedicated to all who served with the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing 1951 - 1993 and their dependants.
16 окт 2024
