Page 4 - Town & Around - March 2025

4 Town & Around March 2025 Tel: 01485 540620 email: editor@townandaround.net
USAF join Hunstanton residents to remember the 1953 flood

service was conducted by Rev James
Monro on 31st January at the town’s
AFlood Memorial. The Mayor of
Hunstanton Michael Rushton led the
procession from the Town Hall that included
Lt Colonel Christopher Beets and Master
Sergeant Steven Colley from the USAF 67th
Special Operations Squadron along with
Councillors and residents.
Before wreaths were laid by the Mayor and
Lt Colonel, the Mayor described tragic events
of 31st January 1953 saying: “This time 72
years ago, the day started like any other, but
it was one that would end in death and
destruction, when a high tide and strong
winds caused the sea to flood 18 feet above
mean sea level.
“Today we remember not only those who
lost their homes and lives that day, but also to
give thanks to those who helped in the rescue,
saved lives, and to those who comforted the
survivors, the emergency services, volunteers,
individuals, and the 67th Air rescue squadron
based at RAF Sculthorpe.
“Thirty one people lost their lives in
Hunstanton that night, fifteen local residents
and sixteen Americans who were billeted in
Hunstanton from RAF Sculthorpe, and I
would like us to take a moment to remember
those who perished that night.”
The Mayor and Lt Colonel Christopher
Beets read the names of the victims and laid
the wreaths.
Rev James Monro said prayers culminating
with the Lord’s prayer said by all.
Pictured right, representing Smithdon High
School are Deputy Head Sarah Robinson with
year 8 students Indie and Harry.
After the service, refreshments were served
at the Town Hall. Lt Colonel Christopher
Beets presented a flag that flew over the
beaches of Normandy on the 80th
Anniversary of the landings last year on
behalf of the Squadron and the US Air Force.
He said: “Our President was there, and we
wanted to share this special flag with the town
of Hunstanton remembering our friendship
and connection between the USA and UK.”