The Redline Home Guard were on parade this weekend at the Wallingford Carnival, where we established a forward base camp under the welcome shade of the trees – a relief after the blazing heat of recent days. Our setup featured an array of period weaponry, creating a striking display that drew in curious visitors of all ages.
Two Bren guns were mounted in anti-aircraft roles, scanning the skies for enemy aircraft (and the occasional Red Kite), while a third Bren and a Vickers machine gun were positioned for ground defence. Adding some serious firepower to the line-up was our Boys Anti-Tank Rifle, reminding everyone that we were ready for anything Jerry might throw our way.
Ever vigilant, we also displayed warning posters about the dangers of German SD2 butterfly bombs – though few noticed the one cheekily hanging above their heads in the tree branches!
As always, the most rewarding part of the day was meeting the public. We were honoured to hear many personal stories of wartime service – fathers, mothers, uncles and grandparents who served in all branches of the armed forces. One visitor shared the incredible tale of their grandfather, a Horsa glider pilot who flew out of RAF Harwell on D-Day itself – see our report from the Harwell Stone.
A big thank you to the organisers of the Wallingford Carnival for inviting us along. It was a brilliant day, full of community spirit, shared history, and a fair bit of banter. We’ll be back next time – lock, stock and butterfly bombs!
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