1947 Stained Glass Window

In January, 1947, a magnificent stained glass window was unveiled at an impressive ceremony in Elveden Church. The window had been presented by the 3rd Bombardment Division, US Army Air Forces, who were stationed at Elveden during the war in memory of those members of the 3rd Air Division who had lost their lives in the battle for world freedom,

The inscription at the base of the window read:

'In honor and memory of the Members of the United States 3rd Air Division, who, based on Britain, fell while on air operations in the cause of World Freedom. 1942-1945.' 'Mundis libris'.

At the service of dedication the Rector of Elveden, the Rev Colin Cameron, read a letter addressed to the Earl of Iveagh from the Headquarters Army Air Forces in Washington, signed by all the generals who were stationed at Elveden, the letter said:-

"To you who have witnessed the ravages of war; to you who have suffered the loss of loved ones; to you who have opened your hearts and your homes to us and our comrades; and to you who unstintingly shared every resource, we express our profound gratitude. May the sunlight pouring through the Memorial Window, which you have permitted us to place permanently at historic Elveden, for ever keep bright and warm the memory of our silent comrades and their British brothers in arms. They surrendered youth, family and friends, the cherished possessions of man, in order that we might enjoy them more fully. They died that we might live as free men. May God in His wisdom reward these men with peace eternal."

Neville W.L. Turner