Ridgewell's Flying FortressesThe 381st Bomb Group flew perilous B 17 missions over Europe in WWII, showcasing valor, sacrifice, and aerial combat excellence. In June 1943 the quiet English countryside around the village of Ridgewell in northwest Essex was transformed by the arrival of the 381st Bomb Group with its B 17 Flying Fortresses. The subsequent battle in the skies over Europe witnessed the 381st, in concert with their fellow airmen with the Mighty Eighth, striking 297