Greatest Raid of WW2? RARE Footage! (WW2 Documentary)

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  • čas přidán 7. 12. 2023
  • On 28th March 1942 600 sailors and elite commandos led a daring raid against one of the most heavily defended ports in occupied Europe. Their mission? To infiltrate Saint-Nazaire and destroy the Normandie Dry-dock, the only facility large enough to repair the German battleship Tirpitz. That raid, known as Operation Chariot, whilst costly, did achieve its objective, and has gone down in history as one of the most famous raids of WW2.
    Join us on the Battlefields in 2024 at Saint-Nazaire with our friends at Classic Battlefield Tours:
    classicbattlefieldtours.com/t...
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    Written References:
    R. Lyman, Into The Jaws of Death (2014)
    S. Chant-Sempill, St Nazaire Commando (1985)
    J. Cooksey, Operation Chariot - The Raid on St Nazaire (2004)
    J. Dorrian, Storming St Nazaire (1998)
    General Sources:
    Bundesarchiv (German Federal Archive)
    Imperial War Museum Sound Archive (IWMSA)
    US National Archives (NARA)
    British Newspaper Archive (BNA)
    The National Archives, Kew (TNA)
    Google Earth Pro & Web Versions
    Maptiler Pro (Desktop Version)
    Image Sources:
    D. Rowlands, ‘The Raid on St Nazaire’ (Painting)
    Wowbuildings.net (3D Model of Saint-Nazaire)
    Credits:
    Research: Dr Robert Lyman & Dan Hill
    Script & Narration: Dan Hill
    Editing: Shane Greer
    3D Model: wowbuildings.net
    Thumbnail Design: Linus Klassen
    Image Optimization: Linus Klassen
    Music & Sound Effects: Shane Greer
    Painting: David Rowlands
    Video:
    Die Deutsche Wochenschau Nr 605.1942, Source: Bundesarchiv, Bestand Film: K 142905-3
    Occupation of St. Nazaire, France, (NARA: 111-ADC-4571 - NAID: 18373)
    Images:
    Bundesarchiv, Bild 101II-MW-3724-02 / Schaaf / CC-BY-SA 3.0
    Bundesarchiv, Bild 101II-MW-3724-02 / Schaaf / CC-BY-SA 3.0
    Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-065-2302-31 / Koch / CC-BY-SA 3.0
    Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-065-2302-39 / Koch / CC-BY-SA 3.0
    Bundesarchiv, Bild 101II-MW-3722-03 / Kramer / CC-BY-SA 3.0

Komentáře • 320

  • @daryl1776
    @daryl1776 Před 5 měsíci +112

    Just spotted this. My grandfather was in 12 commando and was onboard the Campbeltown as it sailed up the estuary to St Nazaire. He told me they were lying on the floor of the ship as the 88mm shells went straight through the ship over them. His team destroyed their target, one of the winding houses. When he was eventually captured the Germans thought he was Scottish as he had a towel wrapped around him as his trousers had been burnt off by a phosphorous shell. He spent the rest of the war in a prison camp and learnt to speak German. He was only 21 at the time. They were very brave men. When he was much older the French awarded him the Legion d’honneur.

    • @R222D2221
      @R222D2221 Před 4 měsíci +1

      What was your Grandfathers name or his commando group?

    • @user-ch7wn5fk8d
      @user-ch7wn5fk8d Před 4 měsíci +6

      God Bless your Grandfather and all the brave Men and Women of your nation they saved us all.

    • @L_Train
      @L_Train Před 3 měsíci +1

      Not sure if they were 88mm shells but I'm sure they probably felt like they were. Maybe 20mm.

    • @bobbynobrain
      @bobbynobrain Před měsícem +5

      My grandfather was also in 12 Commando on the raid. Jumbo Reeves. He was in a demolition party and was also taken prisoner after being discovered hiding out in a cellar in St Nazaire. I'd be interested to hear more about your grandfather - any stories at all as Jumbo died before I was born so I never got to meet him. Many thanks, Jamie

    • @daryl1776
      @daryl1776 Před 29 dny +2

      @@R222D2221 Bob Hoyle, 12 Commando

  • @Paladin1873
    @Paladin1873 Před 5 měsíci +207

    Excellent job of explaining the events of this raid. I will add a footnote regarding Cmdr Robert Ryder, who led the raid. He likely harbored a very strong desire to avenge his brother who had been one of 97 British soldiers murdered by the Waffen SS during the infamous Le Paradis massacre in 1940. Another brother would die in Japanese captivity after the fall of Singapore in Feb 1942. Cmdr Ryder also participated in the Dieppe Raid in August 1942. After the war he served in Parliament for five years.

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci +20

      Thanks for that additional info. Le Paradis Massacre was our last documentary if anyone wants to check it out. czcams.com/video/W91_T6PnBc4/video.html&ab_channel=BattleGuide

    • @garethbarnes3680
      @garethbarnes3680 Před 5 měsíci +5

      Great further information thank you

    • @leddielive
      @leddielive Před 3 měsíci +2

      Out of all his battles & show of unlimited bravery I'd imagine working within Parliament was his toughest assignment of them all!

    • @Paladin1873
      @Paladin1873 Před 3 měsíci +4

      @@leddielive That and controlling the urge to throttle half of them.

  • @williamdrummond3584
    @williamdrummond3584 Před 5 měsíci +12

    I served on the new HMS Campbeltown a type 22 frigate and went to st Nazire in 1990. We met survivors from both sides in swapping of the ships bell ceremony. It was truly heart felt and emotional 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🙏🥲

    • @ColinFreeman-kh9us
      @ColinFreeman-kh9us Před 4 měsíci +1

      Epic…… what a thing to see with the men of both sides in older age and swapping stories of war and life mate

    • @paulbouchie1424
      @paulbouchie1424 Před 3 měsíci

      On my my call

  • @australianmade2659
    @australianmade2659 Před 5 měsíci +62

    I like the last shot where the German soldier gently helps the wonder British soldier into the truck.
    Some chivalry seemed to exist by such small gestures

    • @augustlandmesser1520
      @augustlandmesser1520 Před 5 měsíci +12

      I too noticed that whole footage didn't reveal any brutality or even threatening by the German troops towards the captives (contrary to what could be expected from wartime propaganda), they treated them with highest respect possible amongst the adversaries in wartime. Must be deeply impressed by the bravery of the Brits.

    • @australianmade2659
      @australianmade2659 Před 5 měsíci +1

      @@augustlandmesser1520 yup

    • @seanodwyer4322
      @seanodwyer4322 Před 5 měsíci

      hence why they lost their wars, @@@@@@ Not hard enough.

    • @johnwatts9932
      @johnwatts9932 Před 4 měsíci +3

      Yes.i believe the Germans buried the fallen commandos with full military honour...

    • @australianmade2659
      @australianmade2659 Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@johnwatts9932 lovely touch

  • @ayrshireman1314
    @ayrshireman1314 Před 5 měsíci +24

    There have been two films about this legendary raid: 1952's The Gift Horse with Richard Attenborough and 1968's Attack on the Iron Coast with Lloyd Bridges and Andrew Keir. Both fine films, but there has never been the great film this great raid really deserves.

    • @cookml
      @cookml Před 4 měsíci

      There was a documentary. Is not documentary better than a film?

  • @mairiconnell6282
    @mairiconnell6282 Před 5 měsíci +36

    I didn't realise the Ships Compliment was so large. I also didn't realise 5 got away to Spain, Cdo's are a breed apart.

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci +2

      Thanks for watching!

    • @joetheperformer
      @joetheperformer Před 5 měsíci +6

      Warriors across history always admired each other. It’s a human trait, I think.

    • @marbleman52
      @marbleman52 Před 4 měsíci

      @@joetheperformer .....It is a warrior respecting the enemy warrior because they are both warriors.

    • @nledaig
      @nledaig Před 4 měsíci

      That's definitely NOT true.@@joetheperformer

  • @MC-nb6jx
    @MC-nb6jx Před 5 měsíci +41

    I can’t believe you’ve “only” got 137k subscribers..
    This is easily one of the best channels, with superbly told stories adding fantastic detail to each story..
    Keep up the good work, these heroes deserve the recognition of what they did and how they sacrificed their futures😔

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Wow, thanks very much! Hopefully we will get there. Do feel free to share, it really helps! :)

  • @jamesross1799
    @jamesross1799 Před 5 měsíci +22

    My grandad was in the Royal marines commandos during ww2. Very proud of him. He trained at achnacarry in 1942.

    • @tigerland4328
      @tigerland4328 Před 4 měsíci +2

      My grandad was in the parachute regiment in ww2. He said he thought commando training was slightly harder than parachute training.

  • @leondaly3228
    @leondaly3228 Před 5 měsíci +12

    One of the new Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigates (Inspiration class) is being called HMS Campbeltown after this operation.

  • @nc8507
    @nc8507 Před 5 měsíci +11

    I had a great uncle who took part in the raid. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to meet him. He survived but was wounded after shrapnel tore off all of his fingers on his left hand except his thumb. Apparently he became an alcoholic and died in the 70s or 80s (dont recall when).

  • @Yvolve
    @Yvolve Před 5 měsíci +60

    If you find this interesting, I highly recommend watching "Jeremy Clarkson's The Greatest Raid of All" as it has interviews with the men who went on that raid and came back. Amazing to hear those stories and the way they're told. It's on YT, it has some quiet sections because of music licensing.
    This documentary is kind of a sequel to "The Victory Cross: For Valour". It's about a VC winner in particular, who has an insane story, but it tells the stories of other VC winners as well. Watch this first if you plan on watching both as the second has a spoiler for the first.
    If you don't like Clarkson, do give it a try as it not his Top Gear persona. He is genuine, enthusiastic and very respectful. No over the top bravado or him being obtuse. In the making of/behind the scenes (also on YT) he says he has just done his best bit to camera in his career after a certain scene. That's how much he is into the story.

    • @jsy-tak
      @jsy-tak Před 5 měsíci +10

      I can concur ,
      If you don't like Clarkson, don't be put off.
      Though enthusiastic, it's not the Top Gear version of him.
      Worth a watch.

    • @brandoncurl57
      @brandoncurl57 Před 5 měsíci +5

      Well said, as a 26yr old male car enthusiast I love clarkson and his whole top gear persona, however watching that documentary it she’d his whole other side and showed why he is a British legend

    • @darrenmerritt2744
      @darrenmerritt2744 Před 5 měsíci +4

      Clarkson was fantastic

    • @theHURRENATOR
      @theHURRENATOR Před 5 měsíci

      @@highcountrydelatitejust the name of the documentary chill out

    • @theHURRENATOR
      @theHURRENATOR Před 5 měsíci

      @@highcountrydelatite surely it’s subjective which is why your first comment is pointless

  • @TheGrowler55
    @TheGrowler55 Před 5 měsíci +10

    👏👏👏👏👏👏 Rule Britannia from Glasgow 😎🇬🇧👊👍

  • @eliasmiguelfreire8965
    @eliasmiguelfreire8965 Před 5 měsíci +13

    Thank you very much for the documentary, 10/10. Cheers from Brazil!

  • @ronnieince4568
    @ronnieince4568 Před 5 měsíci +7

    Knew Commander W L Stephens DSO who took part .He was captured and ended up in Colditz POW camp. Escaped and made a successful "home run " back to the UK.

  • @dane0phelps
    @dane0phelps Před 5 měsíci +21

    Most plans go to sh*t as soon as you make enemy contact. The chaos, confusion, green commandos getting their first taste of fight, flight, or freeze, and this plan still succeeded. Despite the loss of such valuable and brave men, they accomplished their mission. I have seen more than my fair share of enemy contact, loss, chaos… but I am not naive enough to believe I can relate to the things that these men had seen and done. My brothers in arms of our previous conflicts were exactly what motivated me to push on in my worst moments in combat. These shock troops were the men that set the standard for me and my comrades today. Cheers to these warriors.

  • @quotemenot7520
    @quotemenot7520 Před 5 měsíci +38

    That is just phenomenal in every aspect from overwhelming odd, out numbered and huge losses, the dry dock was destroyed and much bravery from men who did not no defeat. For Tom Durrant VC, to be awarded the Victoria cross on the word of of an enemy officer is incredible and almost unheard of. These men gave their live willingly and without hesitation and I for one say, thank you all very much and may you all R.I.P

    • @Cdntrvler54
      @Cdntrvler54 Před 5 měsíci +5

      Exactly as how Lieutenant-Commander Gerard Broadmead Roope, of the HMS GLOWWORM was awarded his VC. The Commander of the KMS ADMIRAL HIPPER, Kapitän zur See Hellmuth Heye sent information via the Red Cross on his bravery during that epic battle of April 8, 1940. LEST WE FORGET

    • @quotemenot7520
      @quotemenot7520 Před 5 měsíci +12

      @@Cdntrvler54 It really is something else when the enemy sends word that a soldier he was trying to kill put up so much bravery he was rewarded with this countries highest award because of what he said. None of them needed to say a thing but instead they made sure his country and relatives knew the truth of such brave and heroic actions. I walk in the footsteps of giants.

    • @0rcsrnazis
      @0rcsrnazis Před 5 měsíci

      There was a lot of mutual respect between German and British fighters. @@quotemenot7520

  • @desertmandan123
    @desertmandan123 Před 5 měsíci +23

    10/10 for this documentary....some bravery shown on that day that's for sure. Great video, well done.

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci +2

      Much appreciated!

    • @ridethecurve55
      @ridethecurve55 Před 2 hodinami +1

      I agree. Special thanks for the fine details in the aerial maps and showing the progress of each unit of craft. Well Done!

  • @lewistaylor1965
    @lewistaylor1965 Před 5 měsíci +29

    This raid inspired me to drive to St.Nazaire and check it out...I'd recommend any body interested in WW2 to go as it's relatively unchanged...The dock is still the, the swing bridge is still there complete with bullet holes and battle scars and the U-boot pens are still there which you can get up on top of via a stairway...It's really interesting and would make a very good film set of the raid with little work for film makers

  • @basingstoke63
    @basingstoke63 Před 5 měsíci +14

    I visited Saint -Nazaire in 1978 , and also took a tour around a preserved U boat . At the time I was aware of operation Chariot ,but didn't realise the ferocity of the battle , and all those brave men who lost their lives . An interesting and educational video . Thankyou .

  • @liverpoolscottish6430
    @liverpoolscottish6430 Před 5 měsíci +11

    Point to note- No 5 Troop 2 Commando LIVERPOOL SCOTTISH COMMANDO's participated in the raid. It was the last time British soldiers went into battle wearing the kilt- Forbes tartan. A number of Liverpool Jocks were killed, including the RSM and Private Tom McCormack. The latter was photographed sitting on the quayside cradling his bandaged head in his hands. Tom was severely wounded by a grenade which detonated near him. The infamous photo appeared in the German forces magazine, 'Signal,' with the caption, 'Captured British Commando.' Sadly, Tom died of his wounds a couple of days later. I have photographs of him outside his family home located on Menlove Avenue, Allerton- Liverpool. Liverpool Scottish was a Territorial Regt which had a distinguished history and a fine reputation- earned during WW1 in fighting around Ypres. During WW2, LS served as a training battalion. Many of it's trained soldiers went into the elite formations like the LRDG, Commando's, Para regt and SAS. No other British Army regt provided more men to the elite units than Liverpool Scottish did- FACT. In the late 90's on Remembrance Day, we would march through Liverpool in full Highland uniform with the Pipes & Drums up front. We had association members who were WW2 SAS veterans. They wore the SAS Cambridge wings on the sleeve of their highland jackets and still wore the Liverpool Scottish Glengarry and capbadge. They might have been WW2 SAS, but they identified themselves as LIVERPOOL SCOTTISH soldiers first and foremost- which speaks volumes about the esprit de corps of the regt.
    Sadly, Liverpool Scottish no longer exists due to myopic defence cuts. The Regimental Colours hang in Liverpool CIty town hall. The LS Association is strong and the turn out on Remembrance Day is impressive. We have very close links with 4 Para, the Para's attend the Liverpool Scottish Remembrance service in the gardens of St. George's Hall. The Para's are very aware that when Para Regt was formed, many of the initial volunteers came from Liverpool Scottish- at least one Coy in one battalion was composed almost entirely of Liverpool Scottish soldiers.
    Brigadier CE Lucas Philips author of, 'The Greatest Raid Of All,' concerning the St. Nazaire raid makes frequent references to the Liverpool Scottish.
    *ONCE YOU HAVE SERVED IN LIVERPOOL SCOTTISH, YOU REMAIN A LIVERPOOL JOCK UNTIL YOU DRAW YOUR LAST BREATH- THE CREAM ALWAYS RISES TO THE TOP!*

    • @ingerlander
      @ingerlander Před 5 měsíci +2

      Wonderful stuff

    • @liverpoolscottish6430
      @liverpoolscottish6430 Před 4 měsíci

      @@ingerlander Actor Basil Rathbone served as a Captain in one of three Liverpool Scottish battalions during WW1. He won the MC for bravery commanding a recce platoon. He would crawl across no0mans land to eaves drop on German troops to glean intelligence. Occasionally, Basil's platoon would conduct a limited trench raid to snatch a couple of prisoners. Highly dangerous work. His platoon were known as, 'Rathbones Brigands.' A rum bunch of lads!

    • @liverpoolscottish6430
      @liverpoolscottish6430 Před 4 měsíci

      @@ingerlander Trafford Leigh-Mallory who served as a Private in LS during WW1. He subsequently transferred to the RFC and then the RAF. You will recall perhaps that he commanded 12 Group RAF Fighter Command during the battle of Britain.

    • @garysimpson3900
      @garysimpson3900 Před 2 měsíci

      Thank you for this additional information. I live in Woolton Village which is not far from Menlove Avenue. Do you know what number he lived at?

  • @wingcommanderdaltonwalton67
    @wingcommanderdaltonwalton67 Před 5 měsíci +15

    This was excellent 👌🏻. Really well put together documentary. The bravery of these heroes must never be forgotten.

  • @elliottg.1954
    @elliottg.1954 Před 4 měsíci +3

    Thanks for this. Living in Devon, we visited the Op Chariot Memorial down in Falmouth when it was dedicated by Prince Charles (now HM the King) nearly twenty years ago. It's well worth a visit on Prince of Wales Pier. The lads bunked in Falmouth before raiding the St Nazaire dock on 28 March, 1942. They sailed from Falmouth Harbour; 168/169 sailors and commandos were killed on the raid and a number of Victoria Crosses, reports say five, were won.

  • @cdntrooper3078
    @cdntrooper3078 Před 5 měsíci +5

    Tom Durrant getting his Victorian Cross recommendation from a Nazi is amazing that truly shows his bravery that even the enemy acknowledges it

    • @zen4men
      @zen4men Před měsícem

      It was not the only occasion.
      See HMS Glowworm.
      /

  • @jean-robertlombard1416
    @jean-robertlombard1416 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Bonjour de France. Braves parmi les braves. Qu'ils reposent en paix-may they rest in peace.

  • @jhoncho4x4
    @jhoncho4x4 Před 5 měsíci +8

    If the Tirpitz had been able to sail, it could have killed more lives than this raid by several times over plus the loss of material.

  • @charlieross-BRM
    @charlieross-BRM Před 5 měsíci +6

    I guess I'll go to my dirt nap never knowing if my uncle "Sandy" was on this raid. I know he was on the invasion of Sicily and he trained at Achnacarry, that's about it. I have no idea what he got involved in except those units weren't formed for anything but high risk actions. We're an all Scottish family but I can't even assume he was in a Scottish Commando. I've lost the only pic I had of him in uniform and he had on his cap which would have helped. The oldest of the four brothers.
    A little trivia: Two of the younger brothers took the train to Achnacarry to see him and at the station there was what one uncle described as a quiet American, keeping to himself, waiting for a train out. My uncle felt sorry for the guy because it was clear he didn't make the cut for a Commando unit and was being RTU'd. His shoulder patches were U.S. Army Ranger.

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thanks for the comment and sharing your story!

  • @michaelmclaren7373
    @michaelmclaren7373 Před 5 měsíci +17

    Thanks for showcasing this amazing raid and for all you do. Love to see you tackle the Cockleshell Heroes raid.

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci +3

      LOL.... you are in luck, Michael. czcams.com/video/Y0wrO_PZZzY/video.html&ab_channel=BattleGuide

    • @michaelmclaren7373
      @michaelmclaren7373 Před 5 měsíci

      @@BattleGuideVT aww damn 😖

  • @Fathervinyard
    @Fathervinyard Před 5 měsíci +21

    jeremy clarkson done a good documentary on this aswell mate this is brilliant

    • @mikeyyoyo6464
      @mikeyyoyo6464 Před 5 měsíci +2

      The greatest raid of all time. Probably the best narration clarkson ever did it was brilliant.

    • @RANGERS.FC.
      @RANGERS.FC. Před 4 měsíci

      clarkson is a muppet be quiet about him

    • @simapark
      @simapark Před měsícem

      ​@@RANGERS.FC.
      A juvenile and pathetic comment.

  • @Brock_Landers
    @Brock_Landers Před 5 měsíci +5

    This entire operation is one of my favorite stories from WWII. It was extremely brave and it disabled the only dry dock big enough to service the SMS Tirpitz (Germany's largest warship and sister of the Bismarck). The British HAD to destroy it. Great story.

  • @davidpope3943
    @davidpope3943 Před 5 měsíci +23

    I was always under the impression that Tom Durrant was already at his designated position on ML306, i.e. the Lewis guns. He maintained a torrent of fire mainly directed at the bridge of the Jaguar despite being under constant searchlight illumination, being wounded in both arms, legs, stomach, chest and head. His response to the appeal from the Jaguar to surrender was to open fire AGAIN at the bridge of the Jaguar although he was so weakened by this point that he could only stay upright by hanging onto the gun mount.
    He only gave up once the enemy vessel had grappled onto the motor launch and was boarded. This man of steel did not die at his post, but passed away from his injuries shortly afterwards in a German military hospital in St. Nazaire. A week or so later, the Captain of the Jaguar met the now POW Commando commander Lt. Col. Newman in a prison camp. He relayed Durrant’s heroism to Newman, suggesting that Newman recommend Durrant for as high an award for gallantry as possible. This was achieved.
    There’s a reason these men ~ and the women who supported them in myriad ways ~ are referred to as ‘The Greatest Generation’ and the destruction of the totally intolerant and brutal Nazi regime was a paramount necessity.
    Looking at the state of the U.K. today, I am regretfully more and more inclined to wonder that if they knew this was the Britain that would ultimately result, would they still consider it worthwhile that they willingly gave up their future so that we could live ‘free’ in a world where people lose their minds at the perceived ‘insult’ of a ‘misused’ pronoun?

    • @tonibolsach
      @tonibolsach Před 5 měsíci +5

      Well said sir .

    • @ingerlander
      @ingerlander Před 5 měsíci +5

      Well said and that is why todays generation should not make a movie about this battle.My cringometer would explode watching it

    • @ColinFreeman-kh9us
      @ColinFreeman-kh9us Před 4 měsíci

      Dave it’s the same across the western world mate here in Australia it’s disgraceful. Brave heroes died for our freedoms yet the masses become sheeple happy to be in lockdowns or mask up believing lying politicians are doctors and our police and media are the new Gestapo.

    • @chrismac2234
      @chrismac2234 Před 3 měsíci +1

      The arrogance of youth. People didn't even have an indoor toilet then for God's sake. Three of the creators of SOE were conscientious objectors. And went on to create,... Well try reading more. And judging less.

    • @cliveb4845
      @cliveb4845 Před 2 měsíci

      Could not agree more

  • @dixiefallas7799
    @dixiefallas7799 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Excellent documentary well done!🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci

      Thanks Dixie, glad you enjoyed it, it's a fascinating operation!

  • @davidgaston738
    @davidgaston738 Před 5 měsíci +13

    my dear old dad was in special operations taking the fight to the nazis

  • @vonsprague7913
    @vonsprague7913 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Bravo! Excellent reportage of the details of the raid aided in no small part by the availability of the footage you used. Your no nonsense dialogue with a tone of admiration and sympathy that in no way dilutes the harsh reality of the action. A very definite MiD for you and your team in remembering these incredibly brave men. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧

  • @stephenwilliams1824
    @stephenwilliams1824 Před 5 měsíci +2

    I had the privilege of visiting St. Nazzaire last year during a motorcycle tour. Visited the harbour memorial and war cemetery. Wrote a nice memo in the guest book and verbally named every named grave as I went around. Cemetery is right in the middle of a housing estate.
    All graves well looked after.

  • @marcg1314
    @marcg1314 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Superb documentary, I've watched quite a few regarding this operation over the years but I would say this is the best one I've seen. Great attention to detail especially regarding the layout and the route taken. Makes me think they need to make a new movie to show how mental this op was. The amount of soldiers who died there is pretty upsetting and it's good these documentaries help us to remember their sacrifice.

  • @neillmorris1469
    @neillmorris1469 Před 5 měsíci +2

    One point about this raid is the commandos were all volunteers who could pull out at any time whereas the Royal Navy personal had no choice and had to go.

  • @dondouglass6415
    @dondouglass6415 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Fantastic video and everytime I hear or read of this raid I get a lump in my throat. Huzzah!!

  • @lou1958
    @lou1958 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Excellent video. Very well produced, informative, and entertaining. This was my time well spent IMO.

    • @BattleGuideVT
      @BattleGuideVT  Před 5 měsíci

      Wow, thanks very much Lou, really glad you enjoyed it

  • @forbesy33
    @forbesy33 Před 5 měsíci +5

    I think this raid was a success especially at the time of the war and an attack in mainland france showed Britain was up for the fight. Yes men were lost but then it protected many more at sea.

  • @user-mg5xc6bo7b
    @user-mg5xc6bo7b Před 4 měsíci +1

    They should make this into a movie and not a crapy Netflix one. My dad was in the commandos during WWII.
    So proud of him. RIP dad

  • @nono-jo4co
    @nono-jo4co Před 5 měsíci +4

    Magnificent work of a battle that I didn't know! Thank you all ! Continue like this !

  • @doctoronishispsychosislab1474
    @doctoronishispsychosislab1474 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Excellent as always

  • @michaelsnyder6922
    @michaelsnyder6922 Před 4 měsíci +2

    A lot of WW2 channels are informative. A lot are entertaining. This has to be be of the best of both. I always watch the videos thinking this is the way I’d want to do it.

  • @maj0072
    @maj0072 Před 5 měsíci

    Excellent presentation . Keep up the good work

  • @Hawaiian80882
    @Hawaiian80882 Před 5 měsíci +1

    While in grade school I purchased a Reville Model of the HMS Campbelltown, it came complete with its history so enjoyed seeing this post....Thankyou..

  • @tomsmith2209
    @tomsmith2209 Před 5 měsíci +1

    An excellent documentary of an awe inspiring mission. My upmost respect to all those that took part and those made the ultimate sacrifice.

  • @magnificentmuttley2084
    @magnificentmuttley2084 Před 5 měsíci

    Very interesting. Thank you for posting.

  • @philchristmas4071
    @philchristmas4071 Před 5 měsíci +5

    Excellent work! I always enjoy your content.

  • @philipthonemann2524
    @philipthonemann2524 Před 4 měsíci +1

    A grand video describing impressive events - many thanks!

  • @corsai7506
    @corsai7506 Před 4 měsíci +1

    No words..... sailors and liberators to a man

  • @janlindtner305
    @janlindtner305 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Very instructive, excellent👍👍👍

  • @paultyson4389
    @paultyson4389 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Why would the success of the operation be debated? The objective was to destroy the dry dock and that was achieved. It couldn't be used thereafter. As for the high casualty count, that was entirely to be expected. The heroism of those who took part was amazing and it was commendable of that German captain to acknowledge one particular act of bravery.
    Thanks for your efforts.

  • @Apollo1961
    @Apollo1961 Před 3 měsíci

    I'm a recent subscriber to your channel and have been binging on your content for some days now. Great stuff. Been reading WW2 history for 50 years now and it never gets old. Love being able to see the locations of these historic events in more modern times. The videos are very informative and engaging. Thanks for your work in bringing this content to an accessible forum.

  • @HumanityisEmbarrassing
    @HumanityisEmbarrassing Před 5 měsíci +3

    What a wonderfully made tribute to these brave men. Bravo.

  • @bernardmcmahon351
    @bernardmcmahon351 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Excellent presentation, thanks, I knew the story but this gave me a better insight, thanks again

  • @paulharris5528
    @paulharris5528 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Outstanding! Great commentary of this unbelievable raid, men of steel.

  • @fastjaydub
    @fastjaydub Před 5 měsíci +6

    I understand that the germans were very impressed by the bravery and skill of the commandos. If you take out the ideology alot of german soldier's were chivalrous and fair.

    • @0rcsrnazis
      @0rcsrnazis Před 5 měsíci

      There was a lot of mutual respect between Gemans and Brits.

  • @heliharris69
    @heliharris69 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Absolutely brilliant presentation of this heroic mission... God bless all that took part... All deserve a VC.. and their memory will live on in history... Rest in peace indeed.

  • @icescrew1
    @icescrew1 Před 3 měsíci

    Best description of this raid hands down. Thanks !

  • @samsum3738
    @samsum3738 Před 5 měsíci

    Excellent video . Very well described .

  • @stephen1137
    @stephen1137 Před 5 měsíci +1

    FYI: MGB - MOTOR GUN BOAT - and a subcategory of the gun boat - the MTB - MOTOR TORPEDO BOAT.

  • @steveshoemaker6347
    @steveshoemaker6347 Před 5 měsíci +1

    EXCELLENT VIDEO.....Thanks 🇺🇸

  • @badger297
    @badger297 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Between your narration, and the images and video, almost made me feel as tho I was there. Great job 👍

  • @hachimaru295
    @hachimaru295 Před 5 měsíci +7

    Great episode - Walking in the footsteps of giants .What a tour that would be -Desperately sad colour photo of McCormack later circuming to his wounds @19.15 proudly wearing the tartan .

  • @Ian-mj4pt
    @Ian-mj4pt Před 5 měsíci +2

    Wow have seen plenty of documentaries about this but actually seeing the operation from the enemies perspective. Got to have true guts doing this knowing that you might not return home.

  • @OrbitFallenAngel
    @OrbitFallenAngel Před 5 měsíci +2

    I love learning new things about WW2!
    American, British, Canadian! ❤
    I love learning everything that the Brave Allies did to help save the World from the Axis Bullies!!
    Great video!
    Thank you for sharing this!!
    God Bless All of the Young Men of the Allies!! 🙏🇺🇸🇬🇧🇨🇦❤💙

    • @mark-se6ef
      @mark-se6ef Před 5 měsíci

      bullies, do not be stupid, they were soldiers.

    • @OrbitFallenAngel
      @OrbitFallenAngel Před 4 měsíci

      @@mark-se6ef No, they were indeed BULLIES!!
      SMH!
      Trying to take over the World because they believed they were superior.
      I have read plenty of articles and books written by the Allied Soldiers and Sailors and Airmen who fought in WW2 call the Axis exactly what I just said...BULLIES!
      I mean your ignorance is simply astounding!!

  • @danielkennedy1524
    @danielkennedy1524 Před 5 měsíci +1

    outstanding! Thank you!

  • @iamcarbonandotherbits.8039
    @iamcarbonandotherbits.8039 Před měsícem

    A different breed of young lads having to become heroic men overnight. I'm writing this because their bravery enabled my parents to meet not long after the war ended.

  • @brianhersey9745
    @brianhersey9745 Před 4 měsíci

    well done sir bringing a small tale of high valor of some of the bravest people to have served in that time.

  • @daviddavies2072
    @daviddavies2072 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Thank you for this video, what brave men 🙏 🇬🇧

  • @randalltom9750
    @randalltom9750 Před 5 měsíci +5

    Courageous and brave men, are a valient tribute to Freedom! God Bless them all!

  • @user-dw1cj2fb8e
    @user-dw1cj2fb8e Před 5 měsíci +3

    If you ever visit the Swanpool area of Falmouth, take a look in the cemetery where another VC and other survivors are buried. Johnny Johnson from Falmouth, Brummie Bill Savage VC and mechanic Tom Parker. Also check out the Prince of Wales Pier and the old gasworks car park, to see where they embarked. Granite Rocks and names in the ground mark the spot.

  • @wullieg7269
    @wullieg7269 Před 5 měsíci +5

    my great uncle was that breed

  • @vaughnmojado8637
    @vaughnmojado8637 Před 26 dny

    That was an amazing story by all of them. I could never imagine how they could remain as sane as they were to do that job. They didn’t lose. They succeeded but at a cost. Much love to my Atlantic heroes. See you soon.

  • @paulmoore120
    @paulmoore120 Před 2 měsíci

    What a great video.Thanks.

  • @Syncop8rNZ
    @Syncop8rNZ Před 4 měsíci

    Good video, especially the use of the maps.

  • @strazed1
    @strazed1 Před 5 měsíci +3

    i love every vid u make

  • @timb9363
    @timb9363 Před 20 dny +1

    Just the best channel going man

  • @user-ox7xr8nu4t
    @user-ox7xr8nu4t Před 4 měsíci

    Great narration.

  • @davidkimmel4216
    @davidkimmel4216 Před 5 měsíci

    Fantastic video

  • @user-gm6lc7py5x
    @user-gm6lc7py5x Před 3 měsíci +1

    🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧This was a brilliant video telling the story of the raid .🇬🇧 I remember watching the film about this as a kid .

  • @CH-tp4wz
    @CH-tp4wz Před 25 dny

    Definitely a subscription and a like from me.
    Really enjoyed it well narrated and some great pics.

  • @moobaz8675
    @moobaz8675 Před měsícem

    Excellent. They really were crazy and brave to take that mission on.

  • @dalj4362
    @dalj4362 Před 3 měsíci

    Love this channel. It has to be one of the best on CZcams. Have you got any plans of making a video about Operation Archery?

  • @diannegooding8733
    @diannegooding8733 Před 2 měsíci

    Brilliantly done. Thanks and god bless those who died in the battle!

  • @Skipper.17
    @Skipper.17 Před 5 měsíci +1

    I’ve heard about that V.C being awarded. It’s not something you would hear about too often, a V.C or any other award of its kind being awarded on the advice given by an enemy officer.

  • @user-rh4uw8cb2j
    @user-rh4uw8cb2j Před 4 měsíci

    I am a current military history student in an MA programme, and it was not until you placed the image of the Tommy gun, RN anchor, and RAF eagle next to Combined Ops that it clicked!!! Thank you

  • @keithlillis7962
    @keithlillis7962 Před 26 dny

    Denying the Tirpitz an Atlantic coast dry dock can never be seen as a failure in my book. The dock was not repaired until 1947. Incredibly brave men and it just goes to show that men and women are prepared to make huge sacrifices when the cause is just.

  • @justinmas299
    @justinmas299 Před 15 dny

    Cool vid

  • @kevinchristeson7363
    @kevinchristeson7363 Před 5 měsíci

    Good stuff!

  • @kimhewitt921
    @kimhewitt921 Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you!

  • @jefferyroy2566
    @jefferyroy2566 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Five combatants escaped to Spain?! That's a story which needs telling.

  • @GregWampler-xm8hv
    @GregWampler-xm8hv Před 5 měsíci +3

    Absolutely first rate documentary 😎

  • @soppdrake
    @soppdrake Před 5 měsíci +2

    Amazing mission, expertly covered by ypur team. Excellent piece of history telling!

  • @franksullivan1873
    @franksullivan1873 Před 5 měsíci +1

    They should do a movie about this raid.

  • @Shogun459
    @Shogun459 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Your use of media is GREAT.

  • @Free-Bodge79
    @Free-Bodge79 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Away the lads. ! 👍💛👊

  • @johnfrei9057
    @johnfrei9057 Před 5 měsíci

    Avalon Hill has a great board game depicting this awesome raid. This incredible action is ripe for a movie.

  • @Hew.Jarsol
    @Hew.Jarsol Před 5 měsíci +2

    You don't get better than the Brits. Brits set the standards for all others to follow.

  • @Eddewardeke
    @Eddewardeke Před měsícem

    This remains an extraordinary feat.