Christmas in RAF Gatow

As Christmas approached, RAF Gatow, much like the rest of Berlin, found itself immersed in the chill of both winter and political tension. With the Berlin Airlift at its peak, aircraft were landing and taking off at all hours. Despite this, the festive season managed to instill a sense of warmth and unity. Simple decorations were put up, and Christmas trees, adorned with any available ornaments, stood as beacons of resilience and hope. The mess halls bustled with the cheer of Christmas meals, serving traditional dishes to the best of the available supplies. Gifts, modest yet meaningful, were exchanged—often handmade or repurposed, reflecting the resourcefulness of the era. The act of giving overshadowed the material worth of the presents, capturing the true spirit of the season.

The Christmas spirit extended beyond the confines of RAF Gatow, touching the local German community as well. The Airlift, emblematic of hope and solidarity, showcased the Allied forces as harbingers of goodwill, including those at RAF Gatow.

The Militärhistorisches Museum Berlin-Gatow extends warm holiday greetings to readers young and old: "A Merry Christmas from Berlin-Gatow!"