Queen Elizabeth inspects barrage balloons, 1939
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Queen Elizabeth inspects barrage balloons, 1939
Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother), inspects the fabric used on a barrage balloon as she and the King tour a balloon unit in October 1939. Date: 1939
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Media ID 14118347
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Balloon Balloons Barrage Fabric Inspection Inspects Tours Unit Visits Elizabeth
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a historic moment during a pivotal time in British history, as Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother), accompanied by King George VI, conducts an inspection of a barrage balloon unit in October 1939. The image finds the future monarch examining the fabric of a barrage balloon, a crucial component of the United Kingdom's air defense system during World War II. The royal visit to the balloon unit served as a morale-boosting gesture for the troops and the civilian population, who were bracing for the imminent threat of air raids from the German Air Force, or Luftwaffe. The backdrop of the photograph is a stark reminder of the looming war, with military personnel and equipment visible in the background. The somber expressions on the faces of the soldiers and the serious demeanor of the royal couple underscore the gravity of the situation. Yet, the image also conveys a sense of determination and resilience, as the British people prepared to defend their homeland against the enemy. The barrage balloons, filled with hydrogen or helium, were employed to disrupt enemy aircraft by obstructing their path or causing them to collide with the cables that held the balloons aloft. The fabric used in the construction of these balloons was of utmost importance, as it had to be strong, lightweight, and able to withstand the harsh weather conditions. The Queen's careful inspection of the material underscores the attention to detail and dedication to excellence that characterized the British war effort during World War II. This photograph offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and resilience of the British people during a time of great adversity. It also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the monarchy and its role in uniting the nation during times of crisis.
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