Welcome to Little America: Life and Death on the Bomber Bases of the Eighth Air Force

by Hattie Hearn

Between 1942-1945, England was transformed into the world's largest aircraft carrier. From bases carved into the East Anglian countryside, American fliers waged war in the skies over Europe. Their strategic bombing campaign struck at the heart of Germany, but at a staggering cost to the young crews. This is an emotional and cultural history of the places known as the "Fields of Little America", exploring how vibrant communities evolved, shaped by the proximity of death and an intoxicating lust for life. In these enclaves, against a horrifying reality, these men toasted the future in the Officers Club and jived with village girls; planted gardens, played competitive baseball, and hosted children's parties. Filled with stories heard for the first time, Hearn shows how the bases of the Eighth Air Force were transformed into homes, both in the rich material culture of the bases and in the imaginations of their occupants.

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 13, 2026

About the author

Dr. Hattie Hearn has a passion for World War II that was ignited by a childhood spent exploring the forgotten wartime airfields of her native East Anglia. Since those early years, she’s made a career out of researching and preserving the hidden histories of the world around her, from old country houses to long lost ancestors. She works as the curator of the RAF Radar Museum in Norfolk, UK. When she’s not exploring dusty archives, she’s spending time with her husband, rescue dog, and two naughty guinea pigs.

Reviews

[Peter Hargreaves]

What a wonderful book! Brings to life the personal stories of those involved in this bloody affair.
I have a special interest in WW2 - my uncle was a Lancaster pilot and was shot down and killed aged 21.
Having moved to East Anglia 5 years ago and discovered the brilliant Bloody 100th museum at Thorpe Abbot, my interest was further aroused by ‘The Masters of the Air’ (book and series) and Hattie’s book adds so much extra colour to our local Market Town of Bungay and its environs.
Highly recommended.

[Stuart Harland]

Fantastic book. Must read for any 8th enthusiast. Highly recommended.