BUILDING 10 (Junior Ranks Mess, former Airmen's Institute)

Building 10, also known as the Junior Ranks Mess and formerly the Airmen's Institute, is located at Biggin Hill, a site renowned as the most famous fighter station in the world due to its significant role in the Battle of Britain. This battle marked the first time a nation maintained its freedom through air power. Developed as a key fighter station during the inter-war period, Biggin Hill was crucial in establishing the air defence system based on radar, which was vital during the Second World War. Among the sites involved in the Battle of Britain, none resonate more in public memory than the sector airfields that faced the brunt of the Luftwaffe attacks. The 11 Group, led by Air Vice Marshal Keith Park from his underground headquarters at RAF Uxbridge, was at the forefront of this battle. Its sector stations, including Biggin Hill, experienced some of the most intense assaults, particularly from August 24 to September 6, when these airfields and later aircraft factories became primary targets for the Luftwaffe. For more information about the history of the site, refer to the details for Station Headquarters.