The end of the beginning - the 2000 Reunion
By 12.15 hours most of the people had gathered near the taxi track to the south of the glider hangar and were scanning the sky for site of the Blenheim. At 12 .23 hours, on time the real UX -N hit the ground at Aalborg, the Duxford UX-N appeared quietly along the runway at a height of a few hundred feet. It made a climbing turn to the south and went on to complete a normal approach landing smoothly along the runway from east to west.
After landing the aircraft was taxied onto the track at the western end of the runway, turned north to follow the taxi track, then eastwards, then to my surprise, turned north onto to the narrow black coloured taxi track leading to the glider hanger.
A sharp right angled bend in the taxi track was expertly negotiated and the aircraft brought to a standstill squarely and centrally to the wide open doors of the hanger and with it's nose 10 to 12 ft from the line of the hangar doors.
Four standard bearers took up positions in front of the Blenheim, 2 on either side. People assembled in the hanger, all chairs were occupied with many standing at the sides. By some mysterious means organ music was provided for the hymn singing.
All the congregation gathered there were affected by the service, by the arrival of the Blenheim, by seeing it just standing there, the wreaths, the standard bearers, the presentation of the Blenheim trophies to the children etc. It all produced a very thoughtful and sombre atmosphere. After the service the chat became subdued. Many reminiscences there shared. The people milled around the Blenheim unrestrained, an opportunity never offered before and one which may never occur again. The old airmen used the chance to full advantage.
The time was now after 3.00. People began to drift away towards the tea party. It was said that the Blenheim would take off a 3.30. There were no signs of it moving by 4.00 when I very reluctantly went to my car.
The day was a wonderful experience, it seemed spirits that had been restless since 1940 were now calmed.
Although it sounds quite inadequate, all I can say is a sincere thank you to each and everyone who helped to make this unique experience possible.
Frank Harbord 24th August 2,000
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