When the Soviet Union blockaded West Berlin, Britain played a critical role in delivering essential supplies by air for over a year. This unique project features veterans who took part in this extraordinary humanitarian and logistical effort.
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John Curtiss
Like many men on the Berlin Airlift, Sir John Curtiss had bombed Germany during WWII....


Fred Danckwardt
During World War II, Fred Danckwardt survived 45 Operations with Bomber Command. He then returned...


Len Hurst
Len Hurst was working with Southend Airways when the Berlin Airlift started. He gives an...


John Eddy
John Eddy was an RAF Pilot on the Berlin Airlift. On one flight into Lubeck...


Terence Crowley
Terry Crowley gives a great account of his time as an RAF Engine Fitter on...


John Aitken
John Aitken was with Air Dispatch on the Berlin Airlift. He gives a modest account...


Bob Brand
Bob Brand had a remarkable career in aviation. Starting out in the RAF he finds...


Clifford Thomas
Clifford Thomas served as a clerk with the RAF and was stationed at several airfields...


Basil Chambers
Basil Chambers was sent to Berlin, Germany with the Royal Norfolk Regiment. He’s in the...


Alan Hewett
Alan Hewett was an Aircraft engineer based at RAF Luffenham. It was a hub of...


Albert Kingham
Albert Kingham gives a humorous account of his life as a young man in the...


John Whitlock
John Whitlock gives an engaging interview about his time as a Wireless mechanic on the...

About Berlin Airlift (1948–49)
In 1948, the Soviet Union imposed a blockade on West Berlin, cutting off all road, rail, and canal access in an attempt to force the Allies out of the city. In response, Britain and the United States launched a vast humanitarian effort, delivering essential supplies by air. Over 15 months, aircraft carried millions of tonnes of food, fuel, and medicine—keeping West Berlin alive and marking the first major confrontation of the Cold War.
Legasee’s Berlin Airlift Project
Despite the scale of the operation, the British contribution has often been overlooked. With support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Legasee worked with the British Berlin Airlift Association, the Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum, and Bungay High School to ensure these stories were recorded.
From 2012 to 2013, Legasee captured 50 interviews with British veterans who took part in the airlift — pilots, ground crew, engineers, and support staff. A permanent exhibition was also created at the Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the airlift, featuring memorabilia and artefacts donated by veterans.