Fresh from his appearance on BBC Points West, Oliver presented his research into this fascinating subject. His interest developing from his Great Aunt who married a GI.

Initially following the Lend Lease Act (1941) US civilians arrived in Norther Ireland to support this policy. The first signs of the US military in Bristol were not until 10^th July 1942 at Avonmouth. Indeed, baseball was reported in the Evening Post in September.

In the early days these were black GIs in Support Services. Segregation of white and black GIs was an issue. In fact, there was a riot on Park Street due to treatment of the black GIs. This was not reported in Britain.

General Omar Bradley was based at Clifton College (US 1^st Army HQ) where the planning for D Day took place.

32^nd Machine Records Unit was also at the college but residents complained the generators were to noisy ! Moved to opposite the zoo.

Other notable areas: Armoured Fighting Vehicles serviced by the Sea Walls on the Downs, where there was a baseball league. Shirehampton Golf Course (for whites) and Penpole Lane (for blacks). 298^th General Hospital at Frenchay (expanded as a US hospital). The Leyland Showroom on Warmley Hill was built by the Americans for Jeeps and there was the Medical Corp at Tennis Court Road.

1.5 million Americans were in Britain at the time. Oliver finished by fielding some interesting questions from the audience.

For further information go to http://www.yanksinbristol.co.uk