Airfields Airmen Arras Battleground Europe: Unearthing the Forgotten Heroes of World War I

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World War I, known as the Great War, was a conflict that shook the world and reshaped the course of history. While ground battles and trench warfare dominate our understanding of this time, there is an often overlooked aspect of the war that unfolded across the skies: the heroic airmen who flew from the airfields of Arras, located in the heart of the battleground in Europe.

Over the course of four years, from 1914 to 1918, these airfields served as launchpads for the brave airmen who risked their lives daily to gain a strategic advantage for their armies. In this article, we will delve into the dramatic tales of these forgotten heroes and shed light on their significant contributions to the war effort.

The Strategic Importance of Arras

Arras, a historic city in northern France, became a focal point of the war due to its significant geographical position. Bordering Germany and Belgium, this region served as a strategic gateway to key areas of Europe, making it an ideal location for military operations.

Airfields & Airmen: Arras (Battleground Europe)

by Mike O'Connor(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	33569 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Recognizing its importance, both the Allied and German forces established airfields in and around Arras for aerial reconnaissance, bombing raids, and dogfights. These airfields were manned by brave young airmen, who dared to face the dangers of flying in primitive aircraft, armed with little more than their courage and determination to serve their nations.

The Forgotten Heroes: Airmen of Arras

The airmen of Arras were at the forefront of advancing aviation technology and tactics during the war. Flying in fragile biplanes, they faced severe weather conditions, constant technical failures, and the ever-present threat of enemy fire. Despite these challenges, these daredevils took to the skies, with their weapons of choice being the Vickers machine guns mounted on their aircraft.

Among the most famous airmen to emerge from Arras was Albert Ball, a British flying ace credited with 44 aerial victories. His fearlessness and expertise in the air garnered him significant praise and made him a symbol of heroism for his fellow airmen.

The airmen of Arras were known for their audacious tactics, often engaging in individual dogfights against overwhelming enemy numbers. This boldness earned them a reputation as some of the most fearless and skilled pilots to have ever flown, making the Arras airfields a legendary breeding ground for aviation heroes.

Tales of Valor and Tragedy

The stories of the airmen of Arras are filled with tales of valor and tragedy. From daring aerial duels to unforeseen accidents, these men faced numerous perils on a daily basis. Their lives were constantly on the line as they navigated the unpredictable skies, knowing that each mission could be their last.

One such tragic tale is that of Captain Albert Ball. Despite his unparalleled success in aerial combat, Ball's life was cut tragically short when he was killed in action at the young age of 20. His death, like many others, serves as a reminder of the immense sacrifice made by these young airmen, whose lives were lost far too soon.

The Legacy of the Airmen of Arras

While the heroism of the airmen of Arras may have faded from the public consciousness over the years, their legacy remains engraved in the annals of military history. Their pioneering spirit helped shape the future of aerial warfare and laid the foundation for the aviation advancements that followed.

Today, the airfields of Arras still stand as a silent testament to the courage and determination exhibited by these forgotten heroes. Visitors can explore the historic hangars, walk the runways, and pay tribute to the brave airmen who once called this place their home.

Remembering the Forgotten Heroes

As time passes, it is crucial to remember and honor the forgotten heroes of World War I. The airmen of Arras, who flew over the battlegrounds of Europe, played a vital role in shaping the outcome of the war, yet their stories often go untold.

By unearthing their tales of heroism and paying tribute to their sacrifices, we ensure that the legacy of these brave airmen lives on. Let us never forget the audacity, skill, and unwavering determination of the airmen of Arras, who soared through the tumultuous skies of World War I, forever etching their names into history.

Airfields & Airmen: Arras (Battleground Europe)

by Mike O'Connor(Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	33569 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A historical/traveler’s guide to the World War I aerial events around Arras, France, featuring ace pilots, airfields, and other local points of interest.

The latest volume in the Airfields and Airmen series covers the Arras area. It includes a visit to the grave of Albert Ball VC and the graves of Waterfall and Bayly, the first British fliers killed in action. There is a visit to the aerodrome from which Alan McLeod took off from to earn his VC and to the grave of Viscount Glentworth, killed while flying with 32 Squadron. The German side is well covered with visits to their cemeteries and aerodromes. This well researched book relives the deadly thrills of war in the air over the battlefields of the Western Front.