Falcon Field - Mesa, Arizona - UK Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

In 1940, it was apparent that the UK needed more fields, more planes and more fuel to train armed forces. To compensate for this deficiency,the "Empire Air Training Scheme" was devised. This was a plan whereby young Britons were sent overseas to receive their primary and advance flight training. Originally it was to have included Canada, South Africa and Rhodesia. After negotiations with the American government, the plan was then expanded to include the United States.

Between the years 1941-1945, Falcon Field was the No. 1 British Flying School for the Royal Air Force. The airfield officially opened September, 1941 with the first training flight of a Boeing PT-17 "Stearman" biplane. There were fatal accidents at Falcon Field. Twenty-three cadets are buried in nearby Mesa Cemetery where a memorial is part of annual ceremonies presided over by Americans and British citizens. Mesa residents have not forgotten the ties forged during the time this airport was used to train the RAF.

Please see the accompanying website for a detailed and interesting look at this bit of history.

Type of Historic Marker: Plaque Age/Event Date: 09/14/1941 Related Website: [Web Link] Give your Rating: Historical Marker Issuing Authority: Not listed

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