Top Gun…
In my constituency there are two enormous USAF bases, at Mildenhall and Lakenheath. By and large, community relations are very good, despite the irritations that enhanced security measures have caused to local residents.
Some years ago I went up in a F15E fighter: we flew over Scotland. The flying kit was pretty uncomfortable and many people get sick during such flights. They provide you with a plastic bag just in case. Knowing this I ate nothing the night before, and had no breakfast. At the end of the flight (it was fantastic) there was a real look of disappointment on the face of the sergeant who had kitted me out. Subsequently the pilot, Bill de Maso, and his family came to the Commons, and we have remained in touch.
Similarly I went up in a KC135 to refuel the F15Es over the North Sea. Again it was magnificent boys’ own stuff.
The two bases have been there since WWII. Until a few years ago, veteran pilots of the Battle of Britain were beautifully entertained by our American friends each year at the base.
The Americans will maintain their presence in West Suffolk based upon strategic considerations. But meanwhile we all try hard to make them feel as welcome as possible. One day we may just need them again.