389th Bomb Group Memorial Exhibition Hethel
Honouring the ‘Sky Scorpions’ of the 389th Bomb Group
The 389th Bomb Group Memorial Exhibition, located in Hethel, commemorates the brave airmen of the 389th Bomb Group, known as the ‘Sky Scorpions’. As part of the US Eighth Air Force, this B-24 Liberator unit flew crucial bombing missions over Europe during World War II, including the daring Ploiești oil refinery raid in Romania.
Set within a restored wartime chapel, the exhibition showcases a remarkable collection of artefacts, photographs, and personal accounts, preserving the legacy of the 389th Bomb Group and their service at RAF Hethel.
History
RAF Hethel was built in 1942 and became home to the 389th Bomb Group in 1943. The group, consisting of the 564th, 565th, 566th, and 567th Squadrons, flew B-24 Liberators in strategic bombing missions across Nazi-occupied Europe.
One of the 389th BG’s most famous operations was Operation Tidal Wave—the Ploiești raid on 1st August 1943, where they bravely targeted oil refineries deep in enemy territory. The unit received a Distinguished Unit Citation for their outstanding performance in this high-risk mission.
After completing 321 combat missions, the 389th BG departed Hethel in May 1945, and the airfield later became home to Lotus Cars, preserving part of its aviation heritage.
What to See and Do
- 389th Bomb Group Memorial Chapel – A restored wartime chapel housing a permanent exhibition on the 389th BG.
- B-24 Liberator Displays – Learn about the aircraft that carried out critical bombing missions across Europe.
- Personal Accounts & Artefacts – Read first-hand stories from the airmen who served at RAF Hethel.
- Operation Tidal Wave Exhibit – Discover the courageous raid on Ploiești, a key mission in crippling Nazi oil supplies.
- Memorial Site – A tribute to the airmen who never returned from their missions.
📜 Look out for: Special commemorative events and annual remembrance services.
📍 Address: 389th Bomb Group Memorial Exhibition, Hethel, Norfolk
📧 Email: contact us here
🌍 Website: www.hethel389thbg.com
🔗 Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/890849655585296/
✔️ Free parking on-site
✔️ Memorial garden and reflection space
✔️ Guided tours available upon request
🕘 The Hethel 389th Memorial Exhibition Museum is open to the general public on the 2nd Sunday of each month between April and October, between 10am and 4pm. Entry is free and refreshments are available. Strictly by appointment outside of these hours.
Special Visits – The museum welcomes throughout the year visitors from the United States whose relatives served at Hethel. These visitors will be welcomed with the museum providing a bespoke opening to cater for their visits. In addition, we also now welcome guided tour groups from the United States, organised by the Mighty Eighth Army Airforce Museum based in Savannah, Georgia, USA.
🚍 Limited public transport – Visitors are advised to check travel options before visiting.
🎟️ Free Entry – Donations welcome
