EXPERIENCE
THE FRIENDLY INVASION
During WW2, over 300,000 Americans arrived at air bases across East Anglia, known as ‘The Friendly Invasion.’ This marked the most significant change to the region since the Norman Conquest, impacting its landscape, culture, and people. The collaboration between American and British forces was vital for D-Day and the Allied war effort, strengthening the bond between the two nations’ military.
The Americans introduced new cultural elements such as music, food, and products like chewing gum, peanut butter, Coca-Cola, and cigarettes, which left a lasting mark on British consumer culture. Relationships between American soldiers and British civilians, both romantic and platonic, often sparked tensions but also resulted in lasting friendships and marriages.
The legacy of the Friendly Invasion is still celebrated today through memorials, museums, and annual commemorations, connecting the U.S. and the U.K. through shared history.
From Airfields to Market Towns
This collection documents the shared Anglo-American history of the Friendly Invasion, honouring the sacrifices of the time and exploring its lasting social impact on our area. We draw on photographs, documents, diaries, film, and audio recordings, with links to other specialist sites, to explore the legacy of this period.
The memory of the Friendly Invasion is preserved by dedicated volunteers at Control Tower museums and memorials across Norfolk and Suffolk. At the heart of the 100th Memorial Bomb Group, home to the infamous Bloody Hundredth, our interactive map provides detailed history and information on heritage sites, along with opportunities to visit and view artefacts. Special memorial events and open days are also documented for you to enjoy.
Beyond the airfields, our Market Towns played a significant role, acting as cultural hubs where American soldiers and locals exchanged influences. These towns were affectionately dubbed ‘Little America’ by visitors. Each town offers a range of ways to discover its history, including museums, Heritage Centres, walking trails, and tours throughout the year.
Overall, “The Friendly Invasion” marks a unique period of cultural exchange, military cooperation, and economic interaction between the United States and the United Kingdom during World War II.
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