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Combined Ops comes to Headcorn Aerodrome with a Dakota and a Spitfire

The sights and sounds of some wartime military might comes to the skies over Kent this weekend, as the Combined Ops Military and Air Show takes off for its tenth year.

The event, which will be held at Headcorn Aerodrome on Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 11, will feature displays of aircraft on the ground and some in the air, though organisers have scaled some back due to the strong winds which are forecast.

After last year saw two C47 Dakotas, two Spitfires and a Chinook and Lancaster Bomber, this year, for the tenth anniversary, as well as to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day, there will be a Douglas C-47 Dakota “Drag ‘em Oot”, which has been lovingly restored to her original markings as worn during her missions on D-Day.

Combined Ops will see wartime craft in the skies above Headcorn Picture: Darren Harbar
Combined Ops will see wartime craft in the skies above Headcorn Picture: Darren Harbar

Also visitors can catch a glimpse of a Spitfire MK IX TD314 - which played a crucial part in the Second World War, along with the Pathfinder Parachute Group, a British-led veterans club, the majority of who are either serving or retired paratroopers.

The aerodrome attracts vintage aircraft from all over the country, with a large selection of machines on display around the event arena, where a running commentary will keep visitors informed with all the facts and figures enthusiasts want to know.

Combined Ops will be at Headcorn Picture: Darren Harbar
Combined Ops will be at Headcorn Picture: Darren Harbar

The unique event includes static military vehicles, living history re-enactment groups, arena events and military stalls throughout the weekend.

Every year a fierce battle is fought in the fields of Headcorn with battle re-enactments in the fields depicting real scenes from the Second World War with participants armed with real weapons firing thousands of blank rounds and engaging in carefully planned skirmishes.

Ben and Callum ride in a 1943 Willys Jeep at last year's show Picture: Andy Payton
Ben and Callum ride in a 1943 Willys Jeep at last year's show Picture: Andy Payton

Re-enactments take place on both days of the show and combine men and machinery in well-rehearsed skirmishes.

There will be children’s entertainment and food stalls to make your day out perfect for all ages. Young visitors will be able to enjoy children’s mini tanks through the day too.

There will be a bar in the marquee with seating inside and out and a dance floor and resident DJ.

Ian Milton driving his 1945 Willys Jeep at last year's Combined Ops Picture: Andy Payton
Ian Milton driving his 1945 Willys Jeep at last year's Combined Ops Picture: Andy Payton

DETAILS

Combined Ops Military and Air Show will be at Headcorn Aerodrome on Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 11. There is free parking at the aerodrome. All displays are subject to weather and availability. Book tickets at headcornevents.co.uk

The next event at the aerodrome in the Southern Model Show. For the chance to win tickets, see next week's What's On, inside your local KM paid-for paper.

To find out what’s going on in the county and for all the latest entertainment news click here.

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