During the Second World War, HMS Tern welcomed a remarkable array of entertainers who travelled long distances to the remote Orkney Islands to perform for the personnel stationed here.

Some of these entertainers are still well-known today, while others are less recognised with the passage of time. However, at the height of their careers, HMS Tern would have played host to many who would likely be considered ‘A Listers’ at the time.

Gracie Fields regularly visited HMS Tern, where she performed in the cinema hall. Born in 1898 and passing away in 1979, she was one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers during the interwar and wartime years. Rising from a working-class background in Lancashire, she became a major star of both stage and screen, renowned for her warm personality and powerful singing voice. Her films, such as ‘Shipyard Sally’ (1939) and ‘Holy Matrimony’ (1943), often explored themes of resilience and community. Although she spent part of the war abroad, her work remained closely associated with boosting British morale.

Another well-known visitor to the airfield was George Formby, who lived from 1904 to 1961 and rose to become one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers during the 1930s and 1940s. Formby was celebrated not only for his cheerful and charismatic persona but also for his impeccable comic timing and unique ukulele playing style, which set him apart from his contemporaries. He starred in a number of highly successful films, one of the most notable being ‘Let George Do It!’ released in 1940, which showcased his talent for both music and comedy.

During World War II, Formby took on a significant role as a morale booster for British and Allied troops. He toured extensively with ENSA (Entertainments National Service Association), performing for an estimated three million military personnel. His light-hearted songs and infectious sense of humour provided a much-needed escape for the soldiers from the grim realities of war, making him a cherished figure among the armed forces. The warmth and joy he brought to his performances were instrumental in lifting spirits and offering a welcome contrast to the difficulties they faced during their service. Through his music and wit, Formby left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, and his legacy as a symbol of resilience and joy in challenging times endures.

John Mills (1908-2005) was a celebrated English actor who also visited the cinema building at HMS Tern. After being medically discharged from the Royal Engineers in 1942, he found a new calling in acting, channelling his wartime experiences into a series of compelling roles that resonated with the public.

His impressive career spanned over six decades, during which he amassed a staggering filmography of more than 130 films. One of his most notable performances came in the 1942 classic ‘In Which We Serve,’ in which he co-starred with an ensemble cast and was co-directed by the esteemed Noël Coward and the highly regarded David Lean. This film was particularly significant in shaping the portrayal of the ordinary British serviceman during World War II, with Mills’s performance capturing the resilience and humanity of those who served.

Over the years, Mills became synonymous with roles that reflected the trials and tribulations of everyday life, earning him a loyal fan base and widespread recognition. His extraordinary talent did not go unnoticed; he received numerous accolades throughout his career, including an Academy Award, which solidified his status as one of the greats in cinema. In recognition of his immense contributions to the arts, he was knighted, further cementing his legacy in the world of film. His work continues to inspire generations of actors and moviegoers alike.

The feature image is Gracie Fields entertaining airmen at their Christmas party in 1939. The photograph is for illustrative purposes only and was not taken at HMS Tern. Source: Wiki Commons IWM