Avsnitt
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*** On general release on 2 April 2023
*** (Part 2 of 2)
Summary
Jane and James continue their discussion about Bomber Command minelaying operations, to mark the publication of Jane's book, The Invisible Campaign: Bomber Command Gardening Operations 1940-1945. In the episode the team consider the strategic importance of these operations, their impact on the Battle of the Atlantic, the Channel Dash, the U-boat campaign, and personal stories from those involved. Jane and James compares the effectiveness of mine laying to direct attacks on enemy shipping, emphasizing the significant disruption caused to German naval operations. The conversation concludes with reflections on the historiographical neglect of mine laying and its crucial role in the broader context of the war.You can order Jane's book here: https://mortonsbooks.co.uk/book/the-invisible-campaign-bomber-command-gardening-operations-19401945
If you'd like a signed copy, email the team at [email protected]
Takeaways
Mine laying operations were crucial in disrupting enemy naval activities.The impact of mine laying on U-boat operations was significant.Personal stories from mine laying crews highlight the dangers they faced.The Channel Dash operation illustrated the effectiveness of mine laying.Bomber Command's mine laying was more effective than direct attacks on shipping.Statistics show that mine laying sunk around 750 vessels during the war.Mine laying was a strategic component of Bomber Command's overall strategy.The historiography of mine laying is often neglected by historians.Gardening operations were considered successful but overlooked in narratives.The resource allocation for mine laying was well integrated into Bomber Command's efforts.Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mine Laying Operations
00:52 Impact of Mine Laying on U-boat Operations
01:16 Personal Stories from Mine Laying Missions
04:35 The Channel Dash and Mine Laying's Role
11:27 Comparative Analysis of Allied and Luftwaffe Mining Operations
16:40 Mine Laying in Preparation for D-Day
23:59 Evolution of Mine Laying Strategies Throughout the War
25:45 Wider Implications of the Mine Laying Campaign
28:27 The Journey of U-1273
29:46 Disaster Strikes: The Fate of U-1273
31:47 The Impact of Mines on German Logistics
33:35 Assessing the Success of Mine Laying Campaigns
36:08 Statistics of Bomber Command's Mine Laying Efforts
37:54 The Strategic Importance of Mine Laying
41:08 Historians' Perspectives on Mine Laying
44:Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
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*** PART 1 OF 2
*** Episode on general release Wednesday 26 March 2025.
***Subscribers can listen to Part 2 now.
In this episode of Never Mind the Dam Busters, host James Jefferies and guest Jane Gulliford Lowes delve into the often-overlooked history of RAF Bomber Command's gardening operations during World War II. They discuss Jane's new book, 'The Invisible Campaign', which sheds light on the complexities and significance of mine laying operations. The conversation covers the mechanics of mines, the aims of the campaign, the types of aircraft used, and the coordination between the RAF and the Royal Navy. They also address myths surrounding gardening operations, the experiences of the crews involved, and the public perception of these missions.You can order Jane's book here: https://mortonsbooks.co.uk/book/the-invisible-campaign-bomber-command-gardening-operations-19401945
If you'd like a signed copy, contact us at [email protected]
Takeaways
Gardening operations involved laying aerial mines in enemy waters.
The term 'gardening' was a code for mine laying to confuse the enemy.
Mines were designed to create pressure waves to destroy vessels.
The campaign aimed to disrupt enemy shipping and trade routes.
Bomber Command's mine laying operations began in April 1940.
The geographical scope of mine laying extended across Northwestern Europe.
Various aircraft were adapted for mine laying throughout the war.
Coordination between the RAF and Royal Navy was crucial for success.
Myths about gardening operations being easy or for inexperienced crews are unfounded.
Public perception of mine laying operations was often overshadowed by bombing raids.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bomber Command and Myths
03:07 Jane's Journey and Previous Works
05:54 Understanding Gardening Operations
08:46 The Mechanics of Mines
11:26 Aims of the Mine Laying Campaign
13:42 The Evolution of Mine Laying
16:15 Geographical Scope of Mine Laying
18:05 Types of Aircraft Used for Mine Laying
20:39 Coordination Between RAF and Royal Navy
26:45 The Importance of Naval Expertise in Mine Warfare
27:51 Coastal Command's Role and Challenges
30:06 Debunking Myths: Gardening Operations
37:25 Typical Gardening Operations: Training and Execution
41:08 Crew Sentiments on Gardening Operations
43:44 Researching the History of Mine Laying
47:53 Harris's Perspective on Gardening Operations
50:33 Public Perception of Gardening Operations
53:22 Show intro.wavPlease subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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Summary
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, hosts Jane Gulliford-Lowes and James Jefferies are joined by historian Stuart Burbridge to discuss the often-overlooked aspect of the RAF Bomber Command's offensive against Luftwaffe night fighters during World War II. The conversation covers the technological innovations, strategies, and the psychological impact of the night fighter campaign, as well as the statistical analysis of its effectiveness. Stuart shares insights from his research and personal connection to Bomber Command, providing a comprehensive overview of this critical aspect of air warfare.
Takeaways
The night fighter campaign was a significant threat to Bomber Command.
Stuart Burbridge's personal connection to Bomber Command shaped his research.
Technological innovations like the Serrate Homer were crucial in countering night fighters.
100 Group was established to confound and destroy enemy night fighters.
The Nuremberg raid highlighted the vulnerabilities of Bomber Command.
Statistical analysis reveals the effectiveness of the night fighter offensive.
The Luftwaffe had a psychological fear of the Mosquito aircraft.
The introduction of new radar systems improved the RAF's night fighting capabilities.
The campaign evolved through several distinct phases from 1942 to 1945.
Stuart plans to write a book covering the broader aspects of the night fighter campaign.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
02:40 The Night Fighter Campaign: An Overview
04:21 Stuart's Personal Connection to Bomber Command
07:41 The Threat of Night Fighters in 1943
14:35 Technological Innovations Against Night Fighters
19:41 The Structure of the Night Fighter Campaign
27:51 Evolution of Radar Technology in WWII
29:41 The Seven Phases of the RAF Offensive
36:02 Statistical Analysis of Night Fighter Campaigns
41:15 Luftwaffe's Perspective on RAF Night Fighters
48:36 Conclusions and Future Directions
50:11 Show intro.wavSupport the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
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***Episode on general release Wednesday 19th March 2025.
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, hosts Jane Gulliford-Lowes and James Jefferies are joined by historian Stuart Burbridge to discuss the often-overlooked aspect of the RAF Bomber Command's offensive against Luftwaffe night fighters during World War II. The conversation covers the technological innovations, strategies, and the psychological impact of the night fighter campaign, as well as the statistical analysis of its effectiveness. Stuart shares insights from his research and personal connection to Bomber Command, providing a comprehensive overview of this critical aspect of air warfare.
The night fighter campaign was a significant threat to Bomber Command.Stuart Burbridge's personal connection to Bomber Command shaped his research.Technological innovations like the Serrate Homer were crucial in countering night fighters.100 Group was established to confound and destroy enemy night fighters.The Nuremberg raid highlighted the vulnerabilities of Bomber Command.Statistical analysis reveals the effectiveness of the night fighter offensive.The Luftwaffe had a psychological fear of the Mosquito aircraft.The introduction of new radar systems improved the RAF's night fighting capabilities.The campaign evolved through several distinct phases from 1942 to 1945.Stuart plans to write a book covering the broader aspects of the night fighter campaign.
TakeawaysChapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
02:40 The Night Fighter Campaign: An Overview
04:21 Stuart's Personal Connection to Bomber Command
07:41 The Threat of Night Fighters in 1943
14:35 Technological Innovations Against Night Fighters
19:41 The Structure of the Night Fighter Campaign
27:51 Evolution of Radar Technology in WWII
29:41 The Seven Phases of the RAF Offensive
36:02 Statistical Analysis of Night Fighter Campaigns
41:15 Luftwaffe's Perspective on RAF Night Fighters
48:36 Conclusions and Future Directions
50:11 Show intro.wavPlease subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
*** Episode on general release on Wednesday 12th March 2025.
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, we have an incredible conversation with Marc Stevens as he shares the extraordinary story of his father, the man he knew as Squadron Leader Peter Stevens, MC.
It was only some years after his father's death that Marc discovered his true identity, and the tragic story behind the events he uncovered.
We explore Peterโs remarkable journey from German school boy to RAF Bomber Command pilot, his wartime experiencesโincluding being shot down, captured, and making daring escapesโand the impact of these events on his life and legacy. Marc also reflects on how his fatherโs past shaped their family, culminating in a discussion about his book, which chronicles Peterโs incredible story.
You can order a copy of Marc's book, Escape, Evasion and Revenge here
Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
*** Episode on general release on Wednesday 12th March 2025.
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, we have an incredible conversation with Marc Stevens as he shares the extraordinary story of his father, the man he knew as Squadron Leader Peter Stevens, MC.
It was only some years after his father's death that Marc discovered his true identity, and the tragic story behind the events he uncovered.
We explore Peterโs remarkable journey from German school boy to RAF Bomber Command pilot, his wartime experiencesโincluding being shot down, captured, and making daring escapesโand the impact of these events on his life and legacy. Marc also reflects on how his fatherโs past shaped their family, culminating in a discussion about his book, which chronicles Peterโs incredible story.
You can order a copy of Marc's book, Escape, Evasion and Revenge here
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, we join historian Dr. Sarah-Louise Miller to explore her research on WWII operations, including Operation Manna and Operation Exodus in the Spring and early summer of 1945. We examine the emotional impact of war stories, the humanitarian efforts of the RAF, and the experiences of POWs returning home.
As we navigate the challenges of writing about such sensitive topics, we reflect on the power of personal stories in shaping our understanding of history.
Jane relates a tragic story about Operation Sketch (the transportation home of troops from India and the Far East) in December 1945.
Sarah shares her insights with us and offers a glimpse into her upcoming projects, including her research on the Pacific War in Hawaii, and the often-overlooked voices of history.
You can read more about Sarah's work here.
You can find her on X/twitter here.
Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
*** Episode on general release on Wednesday 5th March 2025
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, we join historian Dr. Sarah-Louise Miller to explore her research on WWII operations, including Operation Manna and Operation Exodus. We examine the emotional impact of war stories, the humanitarian efforts of the RAF, and the experiences of POWs returning home.
As we navigate the challenges of writing about such sensitive topics, we reflect on the power of personal stories in shaping our understanding of history.
Jane relates a tragic story about Operation Sketch (the transportation home of troops from India and the Far East) in December 1945.
Sarah shares her insights with us and offers a glimpse into her upcoming projects, including her research on the Pacific War in Hawaii, and the often-overlooked voices of history.
You can read more about Sarah's work here.
You can find her on X/twitter here.
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
This week we answer (or at least attempt to answer) some of your questions - and there are some absolute corkers! Including...
How do you go to the loo in the middle of a bombing operation?
Which operations counted towards your tour total?
Where did spent ammo cartridges go?
What about Bomber Command ops outside the European theatre?
How were aircrew assessed and assigned to their individual roles?
Why did Bomber Command have a higher loss rate than USAAF?
All this and more!
Plus Jane's book is out this week....you can order a copy here. You can also order from Amazon, Waterstones, or your local independent bookshop.
Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
** Episode on general release Wednesday 26th February 2025
This week we answer (or at least attempt to answer) some of your questions - and there are some absolute corkers! Including...
How do you go to the loo in the middle of a bombing operation?
Which operations counted towards your tour total?
Where did spent ammo cartridges go?
What about Bomber Command ops outside the European theatre?
How were aircrew assessed and assigned to their individual roles?
Why did Bomber Command have a higher loss rate than USAAF?
All this and more!
Plus Jane's book is out this week....you can order a copy here. You can also order from Amazon, Waterstones, or your local independent bookshop.
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Christopher Panton, KIA 30th March 1944.
We are delighted to welcome Andrew Panton, General Manager of the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre. Together, we explore Andrew's deep-rooted family history with the Lancaster Bomber NX611 "Just Jane", the emotional impact of war on his family, and the ongoing restoration efforts at the Heritage Centre.
Andrew shares personal stories about his great uncle Chris, who was lost during a bombing raid on Nuremberg in March 1944, and how this tragedy shaped his family's dedication to preserving aviation history.
Need a spare part for a Blenheim or a propeller for a Swordfish? Andrew is your man! We debate the vital role of volunteers in maintaining the Heritage Centre and the profound emotional connections visitors have with the aircraft.
Finally, Andrew shares with us a very personal and emotional piece of family history. This was probably the first time we've had to pause recording, as all three of us were in tears. Hankies at the ready everyone. Look out on our social medial for a photo of Chris, as well as his younger brothers, Fred and Howard, Andrew's grandad and uncle.
Special thanks to Andrew for sharing his family's legacy with us and our listeners. It was a privilege.
You can read more about the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre here, including how to book taxi rides on the Avro Lancaster and the De Havilland Mosquito. Please do visit!
Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
Who writes history, and why?
In this episode, we are delighted to welcome back Professor Alan Allport to discuss the British "Official Histories" of the strategic bombing campaign. We explore the origins, authors, and public perception of these histories, as well as the arguments presented by Sir Charles Webster and Noble Frankland. Our conversation delves into the challenges faced during the publication process, the reactions from military figures, including a right old ding-dong with with Sir Arthur Harris, and the "dirty tricks campaign" waged by elements of the British press against Frankland.
Alan explains how the histories, and the reaction to them, influenced modern interpretations of the bombing campaign.
This is a must-listen for anyone studying or interested in the historiography of Bomber Command.
(Apologies for any spaniel barking in the background we didn't manage to edit out!)
Frankland's book about writing the official history is a thought-provoking read, and highly-recommended. It's called History at War, and you can get it here:
You can follow Alan on bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/alanallport.bsky.social and read about his work here. Look out for the follow up to the wonderful Britain at Bay , Advance Britannia, later this year.Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
*** Episode on general release Wednesday 19th February 2025
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Christopher Panton, KIA 30th March 1944.
We are delighted to welcome Andrew Panton, General Manager of the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre. Together, we explore Andrew's deep-rooted family history with the Lancaster Bomber NX611 "Just Jane", the emotional impact of war on his family, and the ongoing restoration efforts at the Heritage Centre.
Andrew shares personal stories about his great uncle Chris, who was lost during a bombing raid on Nuremberg in March 1944, and how this tragedy shaped his family's dedication to preserving aviation history.
Need a spare part for a Blenheim or a propeller for a Swordfish? Andrew is your man! We debate the vital role of volunteers in maintaining the Heritage Centre and the profound emotional connections visitors have with the aircraft.
Finally, Andrew shares with us a very personal and emotional piece of family history. This was probably the first time we've had to pause recording, as all three of us were in tears. Hankies at the ready everyone. Look out on our social medial for a photo of Chris, as well as his younger brothers, Fred and Howard, Andrew's grandad and uncle.
Special thanks to Andrew for sharing his family's legacy with us and our listeners.
You can read more about the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre here, including how to book taxi rides on the Avro Lancaster and the De Havilland Mosquito. Please do visit!
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, we welcome Reverend Eleanor Rance, the first female Church of England Chaplain in the Royal Air Force. Eleanor shares her personal experiences from her time on deployment with the RAF in Iraq, and insights into the crucial role chaplains played during the Second World War, especially in offering emotional and spiritual support to airmen. We discuss the historical context of RAF chaplaincy, the challenges faced by chaplains like Rev. George Martin of 7 PFF Sqn, and the lasting effects of war on both service members and the chaplains themselves.
It's fair to say we were emotional wrecks after this one! Many thanks to Eleanor for a wonderful and very moving discussion.Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
In a change to our usual format, this episode focuses on the Victoria Cross winners from RAF Bomber Command, specifically Sergeant Thomas Gray and Flying Officer Donald Garland. Over the course of the current series, we'll be telling the stories of the men who received the British Military's highest award for gallantry "in the presence of the enemy".
We begin by discussing the history and significance of the Victoria Cross, the profiles of the two airmen, and the context of their bravery during the early days of World War II. The conversation delves into the operations of the Advanced Air Striking Force, the challenges faced during the Phoney War, and the tragic outcomes of a specific mission to destroy bridges in Belgium in May 1940. The episode concludes with reflections on the legacy of the Fairy Battle aircraft and the sacrifices made by the aircrew, emphasizing the importance of remembering their valour and the impact of their actions during the war.Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
*** Episode on general release Wednesday 12 February 2025
Who writes history, and why?
In this episode, we are delighted to welcome back Professor Alan Allport to discuss the British "Official Histories" of the strategic bombing campaign. We explore the origins, authors, and public perception of these histories, as well as the arguments presented by Sir Charles Webster and Noble Frankland. Our conversation delves into the challenges faced during the publication process, the reactions from military figures, including a right old ding-dong with with Sir Arthur Harris, and the "dirty tricks campaign" waged by elements of the British press against Frankland.
Alan explains how the histories, and the reaction to them, influenced modern interpretations of the bombing campaign.
This is a must-listen for anyone studying or interested in the historiography of Bomber Command.
(Apologies for any spaniel barking in the background we didn't manage to edit out!)
Frankland's book about writing the official history is a thought-provoking read, and highly-recommended. It's called History at War, and you can get it here:
You can follow Alan on bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/alanallport.bsky.social and read about his work here. Look out for the follow up to the wonderful Britain at Bay , Advance Britannia, later this year.Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
** Episode on general release Wednesday 5 February 2025.
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, we welcome Eleanor Rance, the first female Church of England Chaplain in the Royal Air Force. Eleanor shares her personal experiences from her time on deployment with the RAF in Iraq, and insights into the crucial role chaplains played during the Second World War, especially in offering emotional and spiritual support to airmen. We discuss the historical context of RAF chaplaincy, the challenges faced by chaplains like George Martin, and the lasting effects of war on both service members and the chaplains themselves. It's fair to say we were emotional wrecks after this one! Many thanks to Eleanor for a wonderful and very moving discussion.Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
** Episode on general release Wednesday 29 January 2025
In a change to our usual format, this episode focuses on the Victoria Cross winners from RAF Bomber Command, specifically Sergeant Thomas Gray and Flying Officer Donald Garland. Over the course of the current series, we'll be telling the stories of other men who received the British Military's highest award for gallantry "in the presence of the enemy".
We begin by discussing the history and significance of the Victoria Cross, the profiles of the two airmen, and the context of their bravery during the early days of World War II. The conversation delves into the operations of the Advanced Air Striking Force, the challenges faced during the Phoney War, and the tragic outcomes of a specific mission to destroy bridges in Belgium in May 1940. The episode concludes with reflections on the legacy of the Fairy Battle aircraft and the sacrifices made by the aircrew, emphasizing the importance of remembering their valour and the impact of their actions during the war.Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Send us a message or question!
This episode has it all... Bombers in WW1, Coastal Command in WW2, Air-Sea rescue, anti-shipping operations, Balfour, Portal, Blenheims, Hudsons, Ansons, Kestrels, lifeboats and even flying naked over Norfolk in a bi-plane...
Tune in for a fantastic discussion with Jamie Heffer, Chairman of the RAF Bircham Newton Heritage Centre.
We delve into the history of RAF Bircham Newton, focusing on its significant role in Coastal Command during World War II. The conversation explores its origins in the First World War, the inter-war years, its evolution into a Coastal Command base, and the human stories of those who served there, including the challenges and the horrendous losses of aircrew. The episode also highlights the air-sea rescue operations conducted from Bircham Newton and concludes with a discussion on the post-war period and the establishment of the RAF Bircham Newton Heritage Centre.
You can read more about RAF Bircham Newton (including open days ) on the Heritage Centre Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/groups/455568478629653/Support the show
Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here -
Subscriber-only episode
Send us a message or question!
*** Episode generally available on Wednesday 22 January
This episode has it all... Bombers in WW1, Coastal Command in WW2, Air-Sea rescue, anti-shipping operations, Balfour, Portal, Blenheims, Hudsons, Ansons, Kestrels, lifeboats and even flying naked over Norfolk in a bi-plane...
Tune in for a fantastic discussion with Jamie Heffer, Chairman of the RAF Bircham Newton Heritage Centre.
We delve into the history of RAF Bircham Newton, focusing on its significant role in Coastal Command during World War II. The conversation explores its origins in the First World War, the inter-war years, its evolution into a Coastal Command base, and the human stories of those who served there, including the challenges and the horrendous losses of aircrew. The episode also highlights the air-sea rescue operations conducted from Bircham Newton and concludes with a discussion on the post-war period and the establishment of the RAF Bircham Newton Heritage Centre.
You can read more about RAF Bircham Newton (including open days ) on the Heritage Centre Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/groups/455568478629653/Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.
Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)
You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .
You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here - Visa fler
