Leaded-glass window made, given to wing as thanks from civilians

  • Published
  • By Karen Abeyasekere
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  A leaded window designed and made by Meg Williamson, wife of John Williamson, 100th Air Refueling Wing historian, was presented as a gift to RAF Mildenhall when it was unveiled above the main entrance of the Wing headquarters in Building 239, Jan. 7.

"John and I wanted to express our gratitude to the U.S. Air Force and the (Royal Air Force) for having us here," Mrs. Williamson said. "And, more importantly, we wanted to say thank you to the men and women who work in this building for their hard work and sacrifice."

The Williamsons have been stationed in England for almost four-and-a-half years.

When the 100th ARW headquarters moved into the former 3rd Air Force building, Mrs. Williamson said deciding exactly how to say thank you, was easy.

"The clear transom window in the foyer cried out for a leaded window with some bright colors - so we made one," she said.

Mr. Williamson provided the materials, and his wife supplied the labor.

She explained the design has three parts: the RAF roundel, the Air Force logo, and because the facility was built in the 1930s, they also added some art deco. The window has 99 pieces of glass within its design.

"The process took some time, trying to fit it in with work (Mrs. Williamson telecommutes 25 hours a week to the University of New Mexico Institute of Public Law, Albuquerque, where she is an editor) and school. Also, between us, John and I have five children and two grandchildren, who've all come to visit."

Once the design was created, it was approved by Col. Eden Murrie, 100th ARW commander. They then ordered the necessary glass and tools from the states.

"I haven't made a window in about 10 years, so we needed almost everything. Then, it was glass cutting, grinding and copper-foiling the edges, and soldering the lot."

Because UNM closed down for the holidays, Mrs. Williamson said that gave her the time to finish her work on the leaded window during the holidays - It was put in place Jan. 2.

The window now serves as a lasting reminder for both the base and the Williamsons.

"I'm hoping that when (people) look up and see the window, they'll smile, because they know that someone appreciates them," Mrs. Williamson said.