Inspiring programme of learning announced for 2009

Imperial War Museum Duxford’s Department for Learning announces a packed programme of Lecture Days and Special Interest Days for 2009.

Keen to share their passion and knowledge with as wide an audience as possible, they are confident that there is something to ignite everybody’s interest within the fascinating range of subjects on offer.

Lecture Days are presented by IWM Duxford staff, with additional support from experts invited to speak at the events. The subject matter is expansive and inspiring.

For over fifty years, the series of battles fought in the Falaise Pocket have gripped the public imagination. On Sunday 10 May, Jack Livesey will present a lecture that looks at the myth and reality of this titanic struggle.

On Saturday 22 August, Jack Livesey presents the research for his new book on the VI with The VI – The Men and the Machine. Using the war diary of the 155th Flak Regiment, as well as a large quantity of documents from German, British and American sources, Mr Livesey has closed the door on many myths surrounding the VI.

Mud, Blood and Tommy Atkins, on Saturday 26 September, discusses the evolution of the British Tommy from 1914 through to 1918. It takes an indepth look at the equipment that the British soldier was issued with during the First World War and how this evolved during the course of the war. This lecture will include a large display of items used throughout this period.

The 2009 series of Lecture Days concludes with Design and Development of the Helmet on Sunday 15 November. Martin Boswell, Curator of Uniforms, Personal Equipment and Flags, traces the history of the protective helmet in military service, from the First World War to the present day.

Lecture Days run from 11.30am to 2.30pm, with an hour’s break.
Visitors who wish to attend any of the Lecture Days will need to book a place.

With only 60 places available for each of these events, early booking is recommended. Ticket prices are £16 (Adults), £12.80 (Seniors and Students), and £9.60 (Disabled). The cost of the Lecture Day includes entry to the Museum. To book a place call IWM Duxford on 01223 835 000.

In addition to the programme of Lecture Days, there is also a range of Special Interest Days, which comprise four lectures, run by specially invited experts.

In Operation Sealion on Sunday 26 April, Dr Paddy Griffith, experienced military historian and ex-Sandhurst lecturer, traces the origins of war-gaming in the military, with a focus on the German plan to invade England in 1940. Could Hitler have invaded Britain successfully?

Building on the success of last year’s History of British Bombers, Sunday 14 June sees Fighters of the Royal Air Force under discussion. Join us to discuss the history of the fighter from its origins in the First World War through to its role in modern warfare.

Operation Mercury on Sunday 13 September explores the change in fortunes that could have been achieved had the Allies retained control of Crete in 1941. Dr Paddy Griffith discusses how this would have influenced the war in the Mediterranean.

The programme of Special Interest Days is brought to a fascinating conclusion with Britain’s involvement in Afghanistan. Join a panel of military personnel and historians on Sunday 18 October to understand our involvement in Afghanistan, from the ‘Great Game’ of the nineteenth century through to today’s conflict.

The costs for special interest days are £21 (Adults), £16 (Senior Citizens), £12.80 (Students), £9.60 (Disabled).

To book entry onto any of these days, please fill out a booking form online at www.iwm.org.uk or contact the Department for Learning on 01223 499 342 or 01223 499 372.

Imperial War Museum Duxford is just south of Cambridge at junction 10 of the M11. Ample free parking is available. For a full list of Duxford’s air shows and other exciting events in 2009, including half term activities for families, visit www.iwm.org.uk/duxford or telephone 01223 835 000. Opening times are 10.00am-4.00pm.