A ‘good walk makes one feel good when he just takes his time’: the East Anglian countryside and USAAF personnel during the Second World War

Engagement with nature has been used for a long time to promote and support mental and physical health. Horticultural therapy and outdoor activities have also been used to treat and support military veterans. In this article, the author explores the impact the East Anglian countryside had on personnel of the United States Army Air Force (USAAF) during the Second World War. It is clear from letters written by USAAF personnel back home that the East Anglian countryside provided an opportunity to escape from the emotional stress caused by the war and being away from home.