Mayor celebrates 306th Bombardment Group

Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, celebrated the 306th Bombardment Group Museum veteran's event this weekend, marking 80 years since the 306th arrived in Thurleigh.

The Mayor took along the silver Rose Bowl, which was originally presented to the then Mayor of Bedford, John Canvin, by the United States American Air Force in 1945.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said, "At this poignant event, I was able to meet with a number of relatives of veterans and thank them on behalf of the Borough for their father's and grandfather's service during World War Two. I was also delighted to accept on behalf of the Borough, a lovely commemorative plaque which will be displayed in the Mayor's Parlour."

Local volunteers and organisers of the event Kevin, John and Mark said, "We were pleased to hold the Veterans Family weekend & especially pleased that Mayor Dave Hodgson was able to attend and bring back to the museum the Rose Bowl which had been presented by the USAAF to the Mayor of Bedford in 1944. This was especially pleasing for the American Veterans families."

The Museum is a memorial dedicated to the personnel of the 306th Bomb Group who operated from Thurleigh during World War 2 as part of the Eighth Air Force 40th Combat Wing, 1st Air Division and is open throughout the summer on Sundays.

Mayor Dave added, "If you have not already visited the museum, please do so. The 306th Bombardment Museum, acts as a reminder of the Group's service. You can find out more information about the museum at www.306bg.co.uk."