National Events

Nationally run events and more 

There are many different online learning events and other activities, run by the national u3a movement, that are available to you as a member of Tonbridge u3a. Further details of what is available currently can be found on the national u3a website - https:// www.u3a.org.uk/.

Please send any comments using the e-mail secretary@tonbridgeu3a.uk 

Free Online Event

Tuesday, 3 June - 10am - 12pm

Flight Inspirations Aviation Meeting: Combat Stress and Lack of Moral Fibre

The story of how USAAF and RAF aircrew dealt with the psychological stress of knowing that each mission they flew could be their last.

Being part of a bomber crew in World War II demanded extraordinary courage. Among all branches of the Allied services, serving in the air was the most perilous and yet, theoretically some of these aircrew were volunteers. Young men from the USAAF and RAF climbed into their aircraft knowing the odds were stacked against them. Each mission meant flying deep into enemy territory, braving flak, enemy fighters, and the constant threat of death or capture.

American crews flew in daylight, tightly packed in defensive formations, exposed to relentless enemy fire. RAF crews took to the skies under cover of darkness, navigating by starlight in long bomber streams. Both faced staggering losses. Yet mission after mission, they returned to the skies not for glory, but for duty, country, and for one another.

The immense pressure took its toll. Some airmen were pushed beyond human endurance and suffered breakdowns. But far from being weak, these were men who had already faced the unimaginable time and time again. Their struggle highlights not failure, but the incomprehensible demands placed upon them. In the RAF, a harsh system labelled some as ‘Waverers’ or having ‘Lack of Moral Fibre’ (LMF), a judgment that brought stigma and shame. The USAAF, by contrast, began exploring treatments using rest, talk therapy, and early tranquilizers to support those suffering from combat stress.

That so few refused to fly, despite the extreme psychological toll, speaks volumes. These airmen demonstrated unwavering resolve and incredible bravery. Their story is not only one of warfare, but of heroism in the face of fear and of silent battles fought long after the engines had shut down

For further details including how to book your place click on

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/flight-inspirations-aviation-meeting-combat-stress-and-lack-of-moral-fibre-tickets-1328380725509?aff=oddtdtcreator 

For further details including how to book your place on the above events, please go to the national u3a website - https://www.u3a.org.uk/events/u3a-week