Irene Dean’s Story

Available for over a year

Irene Dean was a Leading Aircraft Woman at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire, the home of 617 squadron; The Dambusters. She had been in the drapery trade and her skills in stock management were put to good use in the equipment section. There were always two people on 24-hour duty and Irene remembers wearing her pyjamas under her uniform so she could sleep if there was an opportunity. When victory in Europe was declared, one of the hangars was transformed into a party venue with French chalk scattered on the floor to create a dancing area. Now 93-years-old; Irene lives in Stotfold in Bedfordshire. She recalls an “exquisite” array of food, which added to an evening she will never forget. Image: Irene Dean holding a photograph of her younger self.