Peace Vigil attenders see US ground attack planes leaving RAF Lakenheath

Peace Vigil attenders at RAF Lakenheath have observed more than 20 planes taking off on the morning of 2 April. At least six were A10 ground attack aircraft, likely heading for West Asia, where Donald Trump is threatening a ground invasion of Iran.

Witness Avril Simpson said:

This carnage should not be happening, and our government should not be taking part in Trump’s illegal war, and our taxes should be supporting genuine security not killing kids abroad.

Lakenheath Alliance for Peace members have been leafleting in local towns and talking with local people. They discussed what their local bases stand for, and whether their purposes are acceptable or need resisting. An Advan carrying CND’s digital billboard announced that nuclear weapons under the control of Trump have arrived at Lakenheath.

Campaigners are making more moving artworks to add to the display on the fence at the base. These are highlighting the horrors being perpetrated from there.

There will be a major demonstration and blockade at the main gates of RAF Lakenheath on Saturday 4 April. This will demonstrate opposition to its use in the deployment of nuclear weapons and in the illegal attack on Iran. The Alliance promotes genuine security that breaks the cycle of retaliatory violence instead of feeding it.

Lakenheath Peace Camp

Lakenheath Alliance for Peace is holding its Easter Peace Camp from 1-6 April. All who care about surviving the nuclear weapons age are welcome.

A 24/7 vigil at the gates of RAF Lakenheath began at 4pm on Wednesday 1 April and will continue until 3pm on Monday 6 April.

Participants approached the main gate to hand in a letter to the base commander highlighting their concerns. On previous occasions, base staff have refused such attempts.

This time was no different. Angie Zelter, one of the co-authors, said:

This base is taking part in deployment of nuclear weapons, and in illegal wars against Gaza and Iran. Ignoring our warnings by refusing to accept our letter, will not look good in a War Crimes tribunal.

Throughout the week at Lakenheath, peace campaigners will raise awareness of the risks posed by nuclear weapons. They’ll celebrate and promote alternative options, and tell governments that they’re not acting in their citizens’ names or best interests.

They will be joined on Saturday by coaches from around the country, musicians Seize the Day and speakers from CND and World Beyond War.

Camp schedule:

• Wednesday 1 April – Camp set up and beginning of 24-hour vigil outside the main gate of the base. Vigil will run throughout the duration of the camp. CND ad van visiting Cambridge.
• Thursday 2 April – Local outreach in Thetford and Bury St Edmunds – with CND’s digital billboards helping to raise the ‘Kick out Trump’s nukes’ demand.
• Friday 3 April – ‘Environment Day’ theme with workshops on the war on nature, attacks on the right to protest.
• Saturday 4 April – ‘Give Peace a Chance’ demonstration and blockade at RAF Lakenheath main gate.
• Sunday 5 April – ‘Coming Together – Rising Up’ with workshops, music, and poetry.
• Monday 6 April – ‘Grand Finale – Visions into Action’ with networking event and closing ceremony.

More details on the schedule and workshops are on Lakenheath Alliance for Peace’s website.

Featured image via Lakenheath Alliance for Peace