Inside The Real Story Of The Cockleshell Heroes Film

[@socratesrocks1513]

I knew Marine Bill Sparks. He was a regular in one of the pubs in Alfriston, E. Sussex. He stayed out of the local's end (even though he was a local), kept to himself and barely said a word. It was only when the new vicar found out who he was and decided to celebrate it that I discovered who he really was. He was just Bill, polite, quiet, and getting his evening pint. He was mortified. He insisted he was not a hero. The ones who'd died were the heroes. He was merely a survivor. I don't think he went back to the pub after that. I never saw him in there again. I think he was too embarrassed by the fuss made of him.

[@jon9021]

Great story!

[@geoffballe8766]

An excellent story,, perhaps you could do a similar story on operation Jaywick,, not unlike in many respects

[@hartley9958]

Two movies Yesterdays Enemy and Merrills Marauders....

[@hachimaru295]

He was from a different time were real man didnt bring attention to their actions ?

[@Keith-FarFromTheMaddingCrowd]

Why did Bill Sparks have to sell his medals?

[@duncanandrews1940]

I am Chairman of the Bordeaux & SW France Branch of the Royal British Legion and a member of the Frankton Souvenir, a French organisation that maintains the memory of the raid and it's participants. We remember them every December and hold wreath laying ceremonies at various memorials in the area. Believe me, they are not forgotten.............................Oh, and they didn't scuttle the canoes on the South bank of the Gironde, it was the North bank opposite Chateau Segonzac, about 5 kilometres from where I live!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wonderful to hear that and I salute you for putting yourself forward to be chairman of your British Legion branch.

[@annehersey9895]

Thats absolutely wonderful! Nice to know these men didn’t die in vain but volunteered for a highly dangerous mission where the odds were not in their favor!

[@thelastaustralian7583]

Why after my People fought and died next to you in Two World Wars . . You betrayed us and attacked us without warning . Killing Millions of your supposed Allies. The first wave killed Ten of Thousands of our CHILDREN !!!

[@CharlesPepper]

The Hill (1965). An underrated, brutal and largely forgotten war film. Great vid by the way.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I had forgotten about The Hill. Lots of different suggestions coming on, surely some interesting real stories will come from them?

[@harryshriver6223]

Hamburger Hill, released in 1987, is a realistic story of the 101st Airborne in Vietnam. Someone really learned the lingo of Armyspeak. Huuah, Essayons!

[@AreJayCee]

Definitely. A brilliant well made film.

[@waukivorycopse2402]

The Hill is a quiet masterpiece.

[@jon9021]

Excellent movie.

[@davidlawton7845]

I met Bill in 1975 , his son was my Detachment Sgt/Major onboard HMS DIOMEDE ( Terry Sparks ) he was a delight and could tell great stories about his exploits. I count myself lucky to have met him back in the day…( RIP )

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your family story.

[@WolfoftheWoods02]

My Father, a Royal Navy veteran of WW2, made me watch this and other WW2 films as a child. This one always stood out in my memory as it was very much a David Versus Goliath story. Commando comics were a staple of my childhood as well. It is our duty to remember them.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nic comment. Thanks for posting.

[@annettehadley9718]

Hi... my dad took me to see this film too... thanks Dad !

[@davesheppard8797]

@WolfoftheWoodsAirsoft My Dad (who was RAF in WWII), put me on to many war films. We used to watch them together. I think it's important that the future generations see these films so that the men's sacrifice and bravery is not forgotten. So many people want to brush it all under the carpet and forget these exploits or say what happened were "War crimes." In total war, you either give in or fight back. Thank goodness that Britain and the commonwealth fought back. Dave.

[@unbearifiedbear1885]

Tora! Tora! Tora! One of the most spectacular technical achievements in cinema history ❤

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@cynthiaalver]

Where Eagles Dare and The Great Escape are two of my favorites.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for those two nominations.

[@williamromine5715]

The Bridge Over The River Quy(sp) was also a great movie.​@@TheHistoryChap

[@brentinnes5151]

Bugger I forgot Where Eagles Dare in my favourites...that was awesome..Burton and Eastwood are you kidding.

[@tomsenior7405]

Victor, Battle, Commando... They are the comics that spring to mind.

[@desmondmurray5160]

I read Warlord and after a couple of years started getting Battle. I also used to have quite a lot f Commando books - my mate who's a comic dealer and is 63 still comes across ones he remembers from the 60s!

[@jon9021]

Commando..great little “books”

[@Snootyboss]

I used to get warlord too. I seem to remember some sort of club, and a little wallet with my ID in it. Victor was good, and I can barely remember battle. Those little commando books were good but I think they were about 4p more expensive. To a child, that was a huge amount

[@douglasherron7534]

I was a Victor and Commando comic reader too and used to get Victor and/or Warlord albums for Christmas.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

[@robinbishop468]

i well remember Bill Sparks giving us a talk when i attended my Junior Command Course at CTCRM Lympstone in 1981 . His story of unbelievable courage, fortitude and singleminded determination will always stay with me. Told with total modesty to a captivated audience of 50+ NCOs who the following year, would go on to play their part in the recapture of the Falkland Islands. We band of Brothers...Per Mare ,Per Terram.

[@TheHistoryChap]

thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your story

[@SteveStrummerUK]

Favourite WWII film by a country mile - The Dam Busters 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your comment & for watching my video

[@davesheppard8797]

@SteveStrummerUK, yep, mine too!! The heroism is soooo down played though. I suppose not talking about being brave is the British way. Stiff upper lip etc; The ending of the Dambusters never fails to choke me up though, and I've watched it many, many times. Gibson tells Wallis he can't turn in, as he has some letters to write. He turns and walks away from the camera, and the music comes up as he walks into the distance. There is a great book out called "The complete Dambusters" by Charles Foster. It gives the biographies of all 133 aircrew and is full of other good stuff about the raid. Take care mate, Dave.

[@johngrant4470]

As a child in the US I discovered the cockleshell kayaks in an Airfix 1/72 British Commando figurine set sometime around 1970. The local Ben Franklin store would order sets for me, and I ordered many. They spurred a wider interest, for me, in British Military history, and many trips to the library in that pre internet time. I still have an Airfix 95th Rifles figurine I painted 35 some years ago. Airfix was my gateway to 54mm figurines.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your story

[@teryshaw7370]

Not a film, but for realism, Band of Brothers. For entertainment, Kelly’s Heroes. The Great Escape and The Bridge Over The River Quai deserve special mention. But, there are so many that deserve watching.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I agree that there are so many. Not a great film ,but The Eagle HasLanded is also a good story.

[@jon9021]

Kelly’s Hero’s…great movie! “Enough of the negative waves!”

[@teryshaw7370]

@@jon9021 Such a cast. I can’t decide on a favorite.

[@davesheppard8797]

@teryshaw, I can't watch the Great escape anymore after reading the fairly recent book about Roger Bushell, who was the real Big X. What they went through in the camp was pretty rotten, and I find the Hollywood lightheartedness a bit disrespectful to the real life heroes. Only my opinion of course! It's a bit like the film "Memphis Belle." It's so over hyped, making it look like the final mission of the belle was terrible, when in fact the actual film footage taken by the cameraman who flew with them, showed that it was a pretty eventful trip. Don't get me wrong though....those guys had plenty of guts to fly daily over to Germany, and in daylight too. The truth is enough.....it doesn't need hyping. Dave.

[@BootsontheTable]

Fascinating story - the bravery of the men despite the dubious value of the mission, is amazing. Nice one Chris, thanks

[@TheHistoryChap]

I agree, both with the bravery and also whether the military value was worth it. My research suggests that 2 of the 3 German ships were salvaged.

[@johnclarke9498]

Ice cold in Alex, Great channel 👍🎲

[@TheHistoryChap]

Great film. Glad you are enjoying my channel too.

[@grahamepigney8565]

Great film which taught me about many things mechanical such as the benefits of using reverse gear! Superb cast with John Mills, the delightful Sylvia Simms, Harry Andrews and Anthony Qualye.

[@jon9021]

Brilliant movie!

[@the5thmusketeer215]

In “Ice Cold in Alex”, I always remember that heartbreaking scene where - in the sweltering heat - they’ve laboriously cranked the Ambulance all the way up to the top of that sand dune… 😖😮‍💨🥵 only to have it break loose & roll all the way back down to the bottom again. 😥😩😭

[@akajasonbourne]

Was shown on film 4 a couple of days ago, it's one I usually try and watch or record even though I've watched it many times. Dunkirk the 1958 version is a favourite and carve her name with pride, also operation mincemeat is a recent favourite.

[@TheHistoryChap]

As I said, it is up there as one of my favourite WW2 films but so many to choose from. Trevor Howard was great in it.

[@howardjolley2215]

Always loved the 1958 version of Dunkirk as it showed the BEF's move up to the front and then the retreat and the chaos around it. The latest version has no character development and just jumps in.

[@davidmiller4078]

Totally agree amigo i have a copy of Carve her name with Pride but sadly Virginia Mckenna isant in it ? Oh well terrific story of ordinary people fighting Totalitarianism We could do with that spirit right now facing both marxist dogma and fundementalist Theocracy ? Great coverage we should never forget our heros

[@davesheppard8797]

Yes, I love the the original Dunkirk, and Carve her name with pride is great, but very sad. Dave.

[@jon9021]

Anything staring Christopher Lee is fantastic..

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your reply & for watching my video

[@davesheppard8797]

Hi Chris, I enjoy your channel mate, so thanks. I have subscribed. I think my favourite war film is the Dambusters. But I also love the Battle of Britain, Pimpernel Smith (Although fictitious), the longest day, a bridge too far, Sink the Bismark & the Desert Rats, to name just a few of the many war films I own on DVD. I'm really more into war documentaries. I have many, many of those DVD's too!! 😂😂. Best wishes, Dave.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your support. Glad you enjoy my videos.

[@David-cq2mz]

My friend and I built a replica canoe plus associated memorabilia to stage a 70th anniversary display at Dunoon Museum. We also instigated getting a memorial stone placed at Lazaretto Point in their memory. We contacted some of the families who were delighted that there was somewhere to come more locally. Mrs Hasler sent us her best wishes and thanked us for our efforts. Our canoe was also used as a backdrop by Paddy Ashdown who did a talk at Pitlochry Theatre about the book he had published on the subject,…..the inscription on the memorial reads……We shall meet on that beautiful shore……..

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share your story. and for watching my video

[@jeffb9010]

My dad was in the merchant navy on a ship moored up in London docks where they filmed a lot of scenes including getting on the canoes and the German gun boat scene. As a kid he used to tell me the story of leaning overboard and watching the filming. He his no longer with us but many years later I did find a bunch of pictures he took at the time. Happy memories. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your family story.

[@jb6027]

A most excellent video. I especially appreciate how you cover the post war careers of those that survived. Most history books, articles and videos neglect to cover that.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@Corky341]

Possibly THE best comment about any of these historical videos. Whilst I, like many boy/man am really interested in the battles and tactics, my wife, a total civilian is more interested in what makes a teacher, architect, bricklayer; civilian shine when pressed into service. And to find out what became of all these men and women after the war (whichever one is being described) is for me, the really interesting part. Thanks Chris for another terriffic story.

[@PaulFellows3430]

My favourite war film is 'Where Eagles Dare.' I've probably watched it 100s of times over the years but never get sick of it - esp. the road chase towards the end.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comment.

[@brentinnes5151]

sadly i may have watched it over 100

[@PaulFellows3430]

@@brentinnes5151 nothing sad about that! I admire your good taste. It's obvs not historically factual but it is historically plausible.

[@copferthat]

Not forgetting the superb score that accompanies the film by the brilliant Ron Goodwin. Other scores to his name include Battle of Britain, 633 squadron, The Trap (music for the London Marathon) and many more

[@Valkanna.Nublet]

One thing to remember about an attack like this is that even though it didn't do that much damage it did show that the Germans were vulnerable in places they thought safe, and a consequence of this would be an increase in security, taking away manpower and resources that could've been used elsewhere but were now just stood around guarding. Every man and gun added to places like that is one fewer on the front lines or in Normandy.

[@the5thmusketeer215]

You make a good point. 🤔

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & also for your comment.

[@simonrichards6739]

James Conway was from my hometown, we have a brilliant bronze statue of him near the town hall in the canoe. I always stop to pay respects when passing, he was a milkman before the war!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Wow, thanks for sharing that story. Amazing to see so many ordinary men who became heroes.

[@michaelkinsey4649]

Another Stockport lad eh?

[@simonrichards6739]

@@michaelkinsey4649 indeed I am for my sins lol.

[@mattp7828]

Favourite WW2 movies; The Hill, The Cruel Sea, Ice Cold in Alex, Cross of Iron, The Heroes of Telemark, Where Eagles Dare, Odette and of course The Great Escape.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for that little list. Your short list is even longer than mine!

[@OzoneTuna]

To be fair, this is an almost perfect list though ..

[@jon9021]

@@OzoneTunaI agree!

[@beardmeetsworld0707]

"Where Eagles Dare" has to be my fav ww2 movie. Not really a true story but with Richard Burton, Clint Eastwood and that rousing musical score...it makes you proud to be British 🫡🇬🇧

[@jon9021]

“Broadsword calling Danny boy”…

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment & for watching my video

[@oc2phish07]

Comics? Beano, Dandy, Beezer, Topper, The Rocket (for the few issues it was in print), then the smaller 'Commando' war-related ones. Great channel, Chris. I love it.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & thanks for the comment.

[@briancurran2988]

My great uncle was a Royal Marine before,during and after ww2, he was the last sergeant to escape from the 1st battle at Narvic. He helped to train the guys who become known as the cockleshell heroes, he later went into the d-day beaches to get sand samples, so the allies could work out which beaches could take the weight of landing ships and tanks.

[@the5thmusketeer215]

Fascinating… 🤔 Thanks for sharing that. 👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your family story

[@JJ-of1ir]

I am continuously amazed by the stories of outstanding bravery of so many British men and women, and those of the Allies, during the many wars fought to protect Britain. I watched this film when it was broadcast on the T.V. when I was young. I remember, even today, how much it upset me that so many of the crews perished. Thank you for telling the real story of the Cockleshell Heroes. As you say it was even more daring than the film. I was grateful to read in the comments that the Bordeaux & SW France Branch of the Royal British Legion and a Member of the Frankton Souvenir still honours their memory every December. I watched your video, another fine one, on the Mark from the States Channel and just wanted to visit your site to say 'thank you'.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and for taking the time to read some of the comments. I also appreciate you taking the time to comment too.

[@JimJones-jl7nf]

As a young lad I loved the film Battle of Britain.The Spitfire,a majestic aircraft.The music score very fitting adding to the film.

[@TheHistoryChap]

A pivotal moment in British history.

[@warrenmalpas9875]

I intend buying the dvd now. As a young bloke I saw the movie, but remember the end vividly when Ferre walked towrd the camera and in the background, the ghosts of his missing team mates marched to the 'life on the Ocean Wave' behind him... Thanks again for the history Chris.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & taking the time to comment.

[@kwd3109]

The Gift Horse, 1952 starring Trevor Howard is story about a British crew trying to keep a worn down American destroyer afloat from Lend/Lease during WW2. The story eventually culminates in the daring raid on St.Nazaire but it is the compelling and well written story of the Captain and crew that make the film so interesting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your interesting comment.

[@harryshriver6223]

Thanks!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for your support Harry.

[@howardjolley2215]

I read about the Cockleshell Heroes in a condensed Readers Digest book. It was an excellent read for a young lad in the 60's. I didn't have any magazines in Canada like you did, but I read every book I could find about history, in particular, Canadian, British, Commonwealth and yes, even American (we all know that they won all the wars in spite of the rest of us, lol).

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to comment.

[@OzoneTuna]

Pretty much every great WWII film has already been listed .. but I can’t see “The Train” mentioned yet…. Burt Lancaster and Paul Scofield battling through the French countryside :-)

[@jon9021]

I’d forgotten about that movie…excellent.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@harryshriver6223]

Chris I always enjoy how you find these unique stories of British history and pay homage to them. Well done amigo y vaya con Dios.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks, as ever, for your support. Hope you can join me for my Friday live, tomorrow at 1pm (UK)

[@Hectorsdad]

One of your best. Great story, brilliantly told. Yes to Christopher Lee if you can squeeze it in.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it & thanks for your reply

[@stevenadams886]

My favorite is "A Bridge Too Far" I was a serving Para when the movie was produced. My favorite British military movie; however, is "Tunes of Glory" I read the Victor as a kid.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video and for your comment.

[@paralogregt]

Not 1 Para then? My bro jumped in the movie, he was 1 Para.

[@markwilkes8209]

I had the topper, and the Victor when I was a little older, brilliant!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your reply

[@davesheppard8797]

I used to read the Dandy and Beano and loved the commando war comics. They are doing big volumes of the Commando comics nowadays that are nicely bound and have many books in each volume. Dave.

[@brianivey73]

Great video! I have to say Sands of Iwo Jima, 12 oclock high and the Longest Day are my favorites....such a hard choice with so many good ones.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your comment.

[@tullyontherocks]

Jose Ferrer: "Fur air" would be the correct pronunciation. A really under rated actor, also his son Mel is very good. Good vid!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@jon9021]

Very true!

[@stoobydootoo4098]

Not in Spanish, it wouldn't. Not even in Puerto Rico.

[@tullyontherocks]

@@stoobydootoo4098 What ever, it's how the man himself and his son pronounced it.

[@stoobydootoo4098]

@@tullyontherocksFair enough,👍

[@bobclover4634]

The Longest Day is my favourite WW2 film. I absolutely loved it as a kid.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for the comment

[@Fred-px5xu]

Enjoyed your video lecture immensely. I remember the film quite well. I was 11 at the time, it made an impression. And of course the real story behind the film is fascinating as it is herouic . Thank you Sir and I eagerly await your your next video lecture.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. If you haven't already, please subscribe to my channel so you don't miss future videos.

[@brianwood1451]

Enjoyed your video. My favourite WW2 films are The Dam Busters, The Cruel Sea, Ice Cold in Alex The Great Escape and A Bridge too Far (fabulous theme music!). Appreciate the effort you go to in making these brilliant interesting vids. Cheers Brian.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

Nice suprise video this morning, and on an interesting subject too. Did you know that King & Country Toy Soldiers once produced a line commemorating The Cockleshell Heros?Movies: A Bridge Too Far, Monuments Men, The Dam Busters, Empire Of The Sun,Battle Of Britain........just started watching Rogue Heros.....the jury is out on that one for the moment. I used to read The Beano & Dandy, and have a few issues produced during WW2.... at a young age I read Sink The Bismarck....but have still not seen the film.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & thanks for taking the time to comment

[@nordic0815]

Theirs Is the Glory (also known as Men of Arnhem), is a 1946 British war film about the British 1st Airborne Division's involvement in the Battle of Arnhem (17 to 25 September 1944) during Operation Market Garden in the Second World War. It has to be one of the best WW2 films ever made. Using the original locations of the battle, the film featured veterans who were actual participants in the battle. Doesn’t get any better than that…

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & also for your comment.

[@lindsaycole9127]

When I was working in Montauk NY, a gentleman who was from The Isle of Gurney and a former Royal Navy veteran used to give me copies of Royal Navy News. As a history buff the stories in those issues were fantastic. He was on a Coravett or sub chaser in WW2, he always said the quote " Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion ". A good freind he was to a young man.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for sharing your interesting story.

[@arthur12345cat]

Albert RN,Colditz story and series,In which we serve a very moving film some of my favourites

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@davesheppard8797]

@arthur12345cat, Great choice of films. I bought the Colditz series on DVD a good few years ago and both myself and my missus enjoyed it. I remembered watching it when it was first broadcast on TV many years ago, but I was just a kid. 62 now and have many, many Great war films on DVD. Some of them are pretty obscure and old, like the Gentle sex, millions like us, unpublished story, Appointment in London, Pimpernel Smith, Went the day well, Two thousand women & the day will dawn to name just a few. Plus classics like the Dambusters, Battle of Britain, 633 squadron, the Wooden Horse, In which we serve, Above us the waves, Sink the Bizmark and the Desert Rats to name a few. Dave.

[@neilmckie2768]

On a selfish front (because my Dad was there in the REs), I'd love you to do a video on the defence of Calais and minor evacuation in 1940. The efforts of this force are often overshadowed by the evacuation from Dunkirk, but without the garrison of Calais tying up so many German reserves, Dunkirk may have been a completely different story. By the way, my Dad was one of the few lucky ones who were evacuated from the port. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your family story

[@procopiusaugustus6231]

My favorite is “The Cross of Iron” about the eastern front from the POV of a German infantry platoon led by James Coburn. Also stars Maximillian Schell, James Mason and David Warner. Directed by Sam Peckinpaugh. Very realistic using authentic equipment. The Yugoslav army played the Soviets. Both action packed and philosophical story.

[@lastguy8613]

I'll second that, great film!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & taking the time to comment.

[@GarryFullerton]

As a Canadian I like your true historical content

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & also for your comment

[@michaelnorman4685]

Hi Chris , thanks again for a stirring reminder of those who were prepared to sacrifice their own safety for their countrymen.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@davidmooney1253]

The three films you mentioned are, of course, outstanding films. The only other film that should rank alongside these is the Attack on the iron coast. The St Nazaire Normandy Dock. For those that don't know about it I strongly suggest Jeremy Clarkson's War Stories, The Greatest Raid. A superb documentary and well worth a look. As always Chris, a fine and informative video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comments

[@BoerChris]

Hi Chris, thank you for another great video. Born in 1954, I never read the 'Boys' Own' paper, but I used to read the 'Victor' and 'Valiant' pictorial papers, which also had some great war stories. I think they may have inspired me to join the TA in later years, becoming commissioned in 1978. I also started reading the 'Rover' and 'Wizard' shortly before they merged. There are so many WW2 films to choose from, but I think my favourite is 'A Bridge Too Far'.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

[@johnt.kennedy3856]

12 O’clock High. Wonderful film.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your reply

[@a11jackhammer]

One of my favourite war films is Went the day Well, it just show how every body was expected to fight old men, women and children had there bit to do.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your comment

[@haggis525]

Bridge on the River Kwai is my favourite War 2 movie.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & your reply

[@garulusglandarius6126]

Such a wonderful true story of bravery, determination and the best spirit of man. Bless these heroic men and may they rest in perfect peace ❤️❤️ A complete audit of records regarding to these and many more heroes should be conducted to bring their stories to the forefront and not get lost in history 👍👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to watch and also to comment

[@scottp9048]

Excellent account once again Chris ! 633 squadron & the longest day for me ! I read the Victor, Battle and occasionally the Commando short stories.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & thanks for your comments.

[@CharlesRomaine-my9zv]

In memory of the two survivors, the Hassler Trophy for kayak marathon racing has been competed for each year in the UK since 1957. The Bill Sparks trophy was later introduced in 2003 for the highest placed veteran K2 (two-man kayak) racers in that same competition.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting comment.

[@simonlaws6863]

Massive respect chris for the time and effort and research you have to put in for all the work you do. Its a shame i think i may be wrong ? That all our ancestors who fought all the different theatres of war .And most us will go to the grave never knowing the history of your family

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it & thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@stephenmundane]

Thanks for the thoughtful analysis -- an entertaining film that, as you so rightly said, keeps their memory alive. The combined Services Museum in Maldon is well worth visiting if you get the chance -- they cram a lot in!

[@TheHistoryChap]

My cousine lives in South Woodham Ferrers so I should "kill two birds with one stone". Make sure you tick like on the video too (as some naughty person has given me a thumbs down!)

[@the5thmusketeer215]

@@TheHistoryChap Probably a German, Chris… 😉😂

[@FranciscoPreira]

A great movie, in my humble opinion, now that you documented the real history, it is even better, thanks for sharing.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@neilpage901]

Superb Chris. Thank you and yes, I did read Boys’ Own!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@markbartolo6545]

You really do put history across very well indeed 👏 👌

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

[@ericteneyck8691]

Hard to name WWII favorite films, I probably have 25 or 30 in my top 5 favorites LOL. The 3 you mentioned to be sure, 12 O'clock high, The Great Escape, Where Eagles Dare, etc.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your comment & for watching my video.

[@davidwoods7720]

Thanks Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@nathanappleby5342]

I had not known Lee and Broccoli did two movies together, how mighty nice! I would have to say my favorite World War 2 movie is Saving Private Ryan. I also didn't know Clooney's uncle was in The Cockleshell Heroes. A very sad story, but well done.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad I was able to shed a light on a few little historical facts that you didn’t know. Thanks for watching

[@davedunn3908]

Hell Boats. Loved this one as a kid. Didn't know much about Malta and the small boats.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for that suggestion.

[@AreJayCee]

Watched this yesterday great film

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video

[@alanreed2992]

Great vid Mr H.C. . Bill Sparks is also honoured with a Xylophone based 'feature' called simply 'Sparks' originally by Soloist Lance Cpl.L.Witcher of HM Band of Royal Marines , jaunty number that inspires endeavour and good humour , essential elements of a 'Royal ! .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching the video & for taking the time to comment.

[@ianmaw66]

I think Where Eagles Dare is the best action war movie ever made. Thanks for the video. It was fascinating.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@willroberts7252]

Well these are miniseries made in Australia about the two attacks on Singapore by Australian and British commandoes. They are called The Heroes and Heroes 2: the return. Epic stories and a great watch.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & also for your comment.

[@kenattwood8060]

My favourite Second World War film? "The Way Ahead." As a former soldier this file m really resonates but I doubt if you could do anything with it, Chris.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for the suggestion. I'm not sure that I could find anything but it might be worth a little bit of my time researching.

[@tonypetts6663]

Fabulous film, only came across it here on YT about six months ago but I've watched it three times since. The ending is just sublime with them striding into the smoke to engage the enemy, not knowing who lives and who dies but all doing their duty.

[@kenattwood8060]

@@tonypetts6663 Yes, it's got me hooked in that way and I watch it several times each year. The training and the way that the section pulls together really strikes a chord... My own service actually coincided with some of the last second world war veterans in the British Army in the early 1970's so the film always reminds me of former comrades who contributed to my own army training.

[@stevepecket2535]

Having grown up with Navy, army and airforce (and was R.E.) my favourite films from the classic WWII era are both naval. BATTLE OF THE RIVER PLATE and Sink the Bismarck. As an aside I've spent years trying to find the book HMS Kelly that my grandad leant me as a kid. Finally I have a copy 😊..

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting comments.

[@mgramsdale]

That mini submarine looks like the one in Taormina in Sicily (saw it on holiday there last year!)

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & the interesting comment.

[@davidfromkyushu6870]

Thanks for sharing this story, I've not heard of this film! My favorite World War II film by far is "In This Corner of the World" (Kono Sekai no Katasumi ni). Its about a Japanese housewife living in the naval city of Kure during World War II and is surprisingly very historically accurate to the period and events despite being built around a fictional character. I highly recommend it.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for sharing details of the book.

[@59jalex]

Dunkirk, the original 1958 version, is one of my favourites. But there are so many brilliant WW2 British films.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@michaeldean1289]

Hi Chris Great movie which is one of my many favourites. Very interesting story once again. I would love to see a story on ‘the Devil’s brigade’ which is another great classic movie with an intriguing and somewhat obscure story about the 1st special service force, which was a joint effort of American-Canadian Commandos that later became the 1st Airborne Task Force.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video. Noted your comment & will add this to my every growing list.

[@LouisL1963]

Favourite WW2 movies; too many to mention, but I'd go for; Saving Private Ryan (Ryan was based on Fritz Niland, who was pulled out from Normandy by a chaplain). A Bridge Too Far. The Dambusters.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your feedback

[@davidberlanny3308]

Hi Chris, Very well told story, very much enjoyed it. The Cockleshell heores are commemorated in the names of some of the streets in Portsmouth too. Films: I particularly liked Ice Cold in Alex and the Dambusters. I dont think I've seen the film The Man Who Never Was but I have read the book about Operation Mincemeat by Ben Macintyre. Also worth reading After the Flood by John Nichol which tells the stories about what 617 squadron did after the Dambusters raid. Comics: Well until recently I had a couple of old Victors stored away but they were on there last legs and made me sneeze, some great stories in them though. Have a great weekend. All the best

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it & thanks for your comments.

[@joeshmoe8345]

Loved it as always

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@robg5958]

I read Look and Learn, as well as Victor and Warlord.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@ronclark9724]

My favorite Second World War film is a naval one, Away All Boats, about a transport/landing ship in the Pacific theater... The captain ranks a cruiser or battleship, but commands a transport/landing ship... A true gem everyone should watch involving the navy... I even rank this one above my second favorite film, The Enemy Below...

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your feedback

[@kennethfarrand-collins6405]

Hi Mate, favorite WW II movie 'A Bridge To Far'. Oh also hi from the Natasha and Debbie Show. A good and interesting speaker, you hold the attention, well done. Hi from Down Under.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video.

[@crsnmorton]

The Dam Busters is my favorite WW2 film. The theme music alone! Growing up in London during the Fifties, my brother, David, and I never missed a copy of Lion. Following the adventures of Paddy Payne, Warrior of the Skies, or Dan Dare, Pilot of the Future, kept us hooked for years! Cheers!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your comment & for watching my video

[@MarcoAgurcia]

I’ve enjoyed many of your stories. As far as movies, Bridge Over the River Kwai..

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your feedback.

[@mattp7828]

Great story! Made me think of the TV series Secret Army which was later spoofed in Allo Allo, but the real life people who ran the escape routes for agents, airmen, commandos etc were incredibly brave not just as a one off but for years! Would love to hear more about them?

[@TheHistoryChap]

I had forgotten about Secret Army. Great music from what I recall. I like your idea, thanks.

[@alanssnackbardailyrelaxati8155]

Seem to remember some barracks called haslar, down on the south coast. Thank you

[@TheHistoryChap]

Interesting. Can you remember where?

[@dee4634]

It was located in Gosport I think, there was a military hospital there

[@as.6577]

Very Important Person - staring James Robertson Justice along with many others. I'm must admit some very slight doubts as to its historical accuracy - but its still wonderful.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for giving this film a shout-out.

[@carolynmarshall3598]

Top film.

[@ianbell5611]

Great video. Thank you. Great work Cheers

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed

[@Sociologist66]

Greetings from Lima, Peru, South America.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you and thanks for all your comments.

[@neiloflongbeck5705]

A film mentioned, as a running gag, in Spike Milligan's TV shows on the BBC whenever David Lodge was on screen. Often said by Mr Lodge direct to the camera.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share that link.

[@richardbradley2802]

Ah, my favourite WW2 films are 'Sink the Bismarck' and 'The Cruel Sea'. Thanks for doing this film, I knew nothing really about this raid, and it does explain why, as a child, I had canvas canoes in my Airfix box of Commandoes!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & thanks for taking the time to share your story.

[@mikematusek4233]

Like you I have many favorites, among them is the Cockleshell heroes, and Attack Force Z, Victory, and 12 O'Clock High.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@garyburford5774]

Mine is - The Cruel Sea, closely followed by The Battle of the River Plate.

[@jon9021]

“The Cruel Sea”…excellent movie. Probably one of the first “realistic” war movies.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my vido

[@wilsonflood4393]

Cruel Sea every time, I'm nearly word perfect. The book is good too, worth reading.

[@copferthat]

Great, realistic film. I recall a profound moment in the film where the Captain of the Destroyer tells the No1 he was a solicitor before the war. People in extraordinary times do extraordinary things.

[@dee4634]

Being just a few years too young for the boys own magazines I grew up reading the Victor and the Hotspur comics. A favourite war film of mine is also based on a true story ‘The gift horse’ which also starred Trevor Howard.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to comment & for watching my video.

[@stuartmiller8053]

cracking yarn thank you to an event I was unaware of. cheers

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@ludwigderzanker9767]

Hi Chris, very impressive and wonderful narrated, never know this raid and the film...the latter I want to see soon. This men were brave beyond description and the plan was nice until it met the reality, like all military plans. Please show us Christopher Lee, the guy with most sword fights in film ever and a commando service men as the saying goes. Like your channel and the British anyway, best regards Ludwig.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed my video & for taking the time to comment.

[@ludwigderzanker9767]

@@TheHistoryChap you're always welcome.

[@Calum_S]

The Silent Enemy with Laurence Harvey is my favourite war film.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for the comment & for watching my video

[@andysadventures3910]

I would love to see a video made about Egbert Cadbury. The heir to the Quaker family Cadbury business who shot down 2 Zeppelin airships in WW1. By complete coincidence he had lodgings in Great Yarmouth at the time just a few streets away from Britain's first ever air raid. There's a blue plaque on each of those building walls marking the historical significance of these events. He went on to run the family business, became a director of Lloyds bank, honorary air commodore, justice of the peace, received a knighthood to name just a few of his later achievements. Would make a fascinating story to tell. Best wishes. Keep the videos coming...

[@TheHistoryChap]

Think you have mentioned this before. It is on my ever increasing list.