RAF Lakenheath, Royal Air Force station in Suffolk, England
RAF Lakenheath is a United States Air Force station in eastern Suffolk, England. The facility has two runways, fighter aircraft hangars, and maintenance buildings for military aviation operations.
The airfield opened in 1941 as an alternate landing site for British bombers. After the war, the United States Air Force took over the site permanently and expanded it for fighter jet operations.
The Liberty Wing tradition traces back to World War II, when American units first arrived in Suffolk. Local residents still mark the partnership through annual ceremonies and community gatherings that bring together service families and neighboring towns.
The base is a restricted military area and not open to the public. Access is available only to authorized personnel or during special open days announced in advance.
The site sits in one of the driest parts of England, which increases the number of flying days each year. The installation maintains its own golf course and several sports fields that civilian employees can also use.
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