International Bomber Command Centre

08/09/2026

We were delighted to read this recent review of the International Bomber Command Centre by Amelia Cosgrove.

"Every one of those lives, in the air and on the ground alike, is given a name and a place at the IBCC. It's a memorial built for absolutely everyone... it's a space for recognition, remembrance, and reconciliation."

The review reflects on the unique experience of visiting the Centre, from the striking Spire and Memorial Walls to the stories preserved throughout our exhibitions.

"The two 'wing fragments' of the Spire are angled so that walking through them lines you up perfectly with the Cathedral, because for generations of aircrew flying out of Lincolnshire, that skyline was the last landmark they saw before heading east, and sometimes the last one they ever saw at all."

Amelia was equally moved by the exhibition, particularly the way it connects visitors with personal stories from the Second World War:

"...people's treasures: the small objects that offered comfort, distraction and a sense of normality during extraordinary times..."

"...pick one up, dial the number beside it, and you're connected to a stranger's story. There's something almost mischievous yet melancholy about it, like eavesdropping on history."

Perhaps most importantly, she recognised something we strive to achieve every day:

"The exhibition doesn't try to tidy the story into something comfortable."

"It's honest about the scale of loss on both sides... But it never tips into misery-tourism either. That's why it's so moving."

And we could not think of a better way to conclude than with Amelia's final words:

"The IBCC pulls off something a lot of memorials try and fail to do: it makes history feel personal rather than just monumental."

"You won't be just listening to history; you'll be stepping into it."

Thank you, Amelia from Visit Lincoln, for such a thoughtful review and for taking the time to share your experience.

📍 International Bomber Command Centre, Lincoln

https://internationalbcc.co.uk/

06/09/2026

Ready for a day full of heritage, motors and free family fun at our annual Wings and Wheels event.

Open from 10.00 - 4.00

05/09/2026

03/09/2026

The "Cinderella Service" is no longer the forgotten service.

Throughout the Second World War, RAF Coastal Command protected Britain's vital sea routes, hunted U-boats, escorted convoys, and saved countless lives. Yet despite its immense contribution and sacrifice, it became known as the "Cinderella Service" because its achievements were often overlooked.

Today, we are proud to announce that Coastal Command losses have been added to the IBCC Losses Database.

This important addition brings the total number of records to 80,021, ensuring that more of those who gave everything in service to their country can be found, remembered, and honoured by future generations.

Behind every record is a person. A family. A story.

Because remembrance matters, and no sacrifice should be forgotten.

Lest We Forget.

https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk/

01/09/2026

Today, we remember 12,500 airmen and women who lost their lives serving with the RAF’s often-overlooked ‘Cinderella Service’.

Their names have been added to our Losses Database, creating the first truly comprehensive digital record of those who died serving with Coastal Command, keeping the sea lanes of our island safe.

What makes this project even more poignant is that more than half of those who died have no known grave.

Until now, the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice serving with Coastal Command could only be viewed within a Book of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey. From today, they can be searched, explored and remembered by families, researchers and future generations at any time, from anywhere in the world.

IBCC’s Losses Archivist Dave Gilbert, who has contributed more than 1,000 voluntary hours creating the database, has also identified more than 2,000 previously unrecorded losses, including ages, home towns and next of kin.

As Dave said: “Cinderella should go to the ball, and today, she does.”

https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk

27/08/2026

As Lincoln prepares to welcome the Tour of Britain riders, we’ve been looking through our archive and found some wonderful 1940s cycling photographs. They capture the spirit of cycling; determination, freedom, and a love of the open road.

The International Bomber Command Centre sits just a short ride from the city. Whether you’re here for the race or simply enjoying a day out on your bike, we’d love to welcome you. Take in the views, explore the memorial and exhibitions, and connect today’s cycling community with the stories we preserve.

A gentle climb, a remarkable place, and a chance to pause with history.

Tour of Britain (Lincoln) 2nd - 3rd September

Check out what else is happening:
https://internationalbcc.co.uk/visit/events/

25/08/2026

With just one week to go until the IBCC adds 12,500 Coastal Command names to our losses database, we wanted to share these remarkable photographs.

Coastal Command played a vital role in protecting our shores, safeguarding supply routes, and supporting countless operations that often went unseen and unsung. Behind every name is a story — of service, sacrifice, and quiet courage.

As we prepare to honour thousands more individuals, we invite you to take a moment with these images.

Is there anyone you recognise? A relative, a friend, or perhaps someone you’ve come across in your own research.

Every connection helps keep their legacy alive.

https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk/

20/08/2026

6th September. FREE Wings & Wheels event at the IntBCC. Save the post, save the date.

https://internationalbcc.co.uk/about-ibcc/news/events/wings-and-wheels/

20/08/2026

Did you know? 👀