Norfolk in the Second World War

Norfolk was truly a 'front-line county' during the Second World War. Its men and women served in all branches of the forces, and, because of its proximity to the Continent, the threat of invasion and the reality of air raids affected everyone. This book uses archive evidence to look at what life was like both for men serving overseas and for those at home. Begining with the experiences of Norfolk men in the Norfolk Regiment in France, Singapore and in the Far East, the book also examines those serving in the Navy, Merchant Navy and the Air Force. The vital role played by women, in the armed forces, the Women's Land Army, and many other jobs, is explored. The book also looks at the daily life of children and adults, the effects of food and clothes rationing, measures taken to prepare the community in case of invasion, and life at school in wartime. Two important themes in wartime Norfolk, still remembered today by many local people, are those of child evacuees and of the United States Army Air force. Norfolk people experienced both sides of the evacuee situation: many children came to the county from the London area, while many children from the Norfolk coast were themselves evacuated to the Midlands. The American presence in the county was a strong one, and has left a rich archive of personal papers and photographs, which are now held at the Norfolk Record Office, along with many diaries and letters of Norfolk people. This book draws on this material and on the reminiscences of those in the county during the war. The book is beautifully illustrated with contemporary photographs, and these enhance the enthralling story being told: of what life was like during the Second World.