Over five hundred firemen and members of the London Auxiliary Fire Fighting Services, including a great many women, came together to participate in a war exercise over the ground covered by the Greenwich London Fire Station. This photograph was taken circa July, 1939. Click here to enlarge.
The London Auxiliary Fire Fighting Services (AFS) played a crucial role during World War II, particularly during the Blitz, when London faced relentless bombing by the German Luftwaffe. Established to support the regular fire brigades, the AFS comprised volunteers who bravely tackled the widespread fires caused by incendiary bombs. Their efforts were vital in saving lives and protecting infrastructure amid the chaos. Operating under extreme conditions, often with limited resources, the AFS demonstrated remarkable courage and resilience, significantly contributing to the city's defense and the overall war effort. Their legacy endures as a testament to civilian bravery during wartime.
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