34 Expeditionary Air Wing History

Reminiscences from 34 Expeditionary Air Wing veterans tell us that the wing was formed in July 1943 at RAF Hertford Bridge, subsequently moving to RAF Northolt in May 1944. This was a tactical photographic reconnaissance wing, initially comprised of 140 Sqn flying Spitfires Mk 5 and 16 Sqn flying Mustangs followed by Spitfires Mk 5. Both squadrons to the converted Spitfire Mk 9 followed by the Mosquito PR 9 and PR 16.

D-Day Landings

The Wing played a key role in the preparations for the D-Day landings carrying out photographic reconnaissance of the Beaches and landing sites for parachute drops and gliders. They also reported back on the immediate aftermath of the landings. At this time, the Wing was one of the first to use night time photography.

Further Wartime Ops

Post D-Day 34 EAW carried out reconnaissance of the German railway system in the face of heavy German defence of their re-supply system.

The EAW deployed to France on 31st Aug 1944, 10 miles SW of Bayeux whilst the rear party remained at Northolt to conduct airborne ops over Arnhem.

Meanwhile the EAW advanced towards Brussels, stopping at Amiens in mid-September to conduct photoreconnaissance of the V1 and V2 Rocket Sites. They also undertook crucial recces of the Gestapo HQ in The Hague prior to the famous mosquito attacks by 2 Group.

By the end of September the EAW had reached Milsbroek and was providing reconnaissance support for the crossing of the Rhine. The Wing also recced the bridges over the Meuse , the glider landing sites at Bastogne and contributed to the preparations for the winter offensive in the Ardenne – known as the Battle of the Bulge.

34 EAW disbanded in September 1945.