Inauguration of 'Hump World War II Museum' in Arunachal Pradesh: Honoring Allied Airmen's Sacrifice
Discover the inauguration of the 'Hump World War II Museum' in Arunachal Pradesh, Asia's second museum dedicated to Allied airmen martyred during World War II. Learn about the significance of 'The Hump' air route, the museum's role in preserving history, and the gratitude expressed by US Ambassador Eric Garcetti.
Introduction:
A momentous occasion unfolded in Arunachal Pradesh as Chief Minister Pema Khandu and US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti jointly inaugurated the 'Hump World War II Museum.' This landmark museum stands as Asia's second tribute to the courageous Allied airmen who faced the perils of 'The Hump,' a perilous air route between northeastern Assam and Yunnan, China, during World War II.
 |
| 'Hump World War II Museum' inaugurated in Arunachal Pradesh |
Commemorating 'The Hump':
Named after the treacherous air route, the 'Hump World War II Museum' pays homage to the Allied military pilots who traversed 'The Hump' from airfields in Assam to Yunnan, China. During the years 1942-45, approximately 650 aircraft crashed on this route, highlighting the challenges faced by the pilots dealing with difficult terrain and extreme weather conditions.
Gratitude Expressed:
US Ambassador Eric Garcetti expressed his gratitude to the Government of India, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and the dedicated team led by Museum Director Oken Tayeng. His acknowledgment underlines the collaborative effort that made the establishment of this significant museum possible.
Reminding Future Generations:
The 'Hump World War II Museum' serves as a poignant reminder to younger generations of the bravery exhibited by the Allied pilots who flew over 'The Hump.' Their valor and sacrifice played a crucial role in defending democracy and freedom during a critical juncture in world history.
DPAA's Efforts and the Search for Remains:
In 2016–17, the US Defense Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency (DPAA) deployed a team for 30 days to search for the remains of US airmen. It is believed that the Himalayan mountains in the northeast, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, hold the remains of about 400 US airmen. This underscores the historical and emotional significance attached to the region.
Unveiling 'The Hump' Story:
Historical Context:
The year 1942 marked a critical period in World War II when Japanese forces blocked the 1,150-kilometer-long Burma Road, a vital mountainous highway linking Lashio in present-day Myanmar and Kunming in China. In response, U.S.-led Allied forces orchestrated the largest airlift in aviation history.
Hump Air Route:
From 1942 to 1945, military aircraft engaged in the monumental task of delivering approximately 650,000 tons of supplies, including fuel, food, and ammunition. However, this endeavor was not without sacrifice, as around 650 aircraft met tragic ends due to the challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions along the Hump Air Route. This route traverses through Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tibet, Myanmar, and Yunnan (China).
FAQs:
Q: What is 'The Hump' air route? A: 'The Hump' refers to the dangerous air route between northeastern Assam and Yunnan, China, traversed by Allied military pilots during World War II.
Q: How many aircraft crashed on 'The Hump' route from 1942-45? A: Approximately 650 aircraft crashed on 'The Hump' route during the years 1942-45.
Q: Who inaugurated the 'Hump World War II Museum' in Arunachal Pradesh? A: Chief Minister Pema Khandu and US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti jointly inaugurated the museum.
Q: What is the significance of the museum's name? A: The museum is named after 'The Hump' air route, symbolizing the challenges faced by Allied pilots during World War II.
Q: Why did U.S.-led Allied forces use 'The Hump' air route during World War II? A: In 1942, Japanese forces blocked the Burma Road, prompting U.S.-led Allied forces to use 'The Hump' air route for the largest airlift in aviation history.
Conclusion:
The inauguration of the 'Hump World War II Museum' marks a significant milestone in preserving and honoring the sacrifices of Allied airmen during World War II. As visitors explore the museum's exhibits, they will gain a profound understanding of the challenges faced by these brave individuals and the historical importance of 'The Hump' air route. The museum stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who played a vital role in shaping the course of history.
