The Spitfire: History's Real X-Wing Fighter -- Star Wars Meets World War II

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"Crossing the Chasm" & "Lost Time" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
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Michael returns to his lost childhood with his two long-neglected bins of Space Lego.
#RetroBlasting #Spitfire #Xwing

[@pederwise6807]

Never in the history of human conflict was some much owed by many to so few. Winston Churchill

[@scottknudsen6611]

It's no exaggeration to say that a handful of RAF pilots saved civilization. I envy your experience re-tracing their footsteps. And, as this video should decisively show, this IS your lane.

[@zachlennon2948]

I wish modern fighters looked as good as these war birds. The spitfire is a thing of beauty.

[@jeremylemings]

Agreed.

[@vasili1207]

Cough hurricane cough

[@1IbramGaunt]

In their own way some of them DO, things like the F22 and F18 ARE beautiful in their own right too, doesn't take away from the 'Spit's' sublime elegance in any way though

[@jeremylemings]

Well said.

[@edmundscycles1]

@@vasili1207 and mossie. But definitely the hurricane. Maybe typhoon too

[@mecdj]

Superb ! At the age of 48 I too am a massive Star Wars fan and RAF fanatic and most importantly live in Biggin Hill and have done since 1971 ! I’ve visited the heritage hanger several times but as yet not had the money for a flight. They go up nearly every hour during the summer and the pilot throttles back over my house, I never tire of that sound of a Merlin and I have never forgotten the sacrifice made by the few, it’s a humbling place to live and I often have tears in my eyes as I watch a spitfire fly over me. On remembrance week the airfield and Biggin Hill has Poppy’s on every lamppost as a thank you. Once again thank you for sharing these facts with others and if you ever come back give me a call I’d love to discuss our history further. Love this video ! Mark from Biggin Hill .

[@anthonysabularse8562]

I wish there was a way to "Double Like" a video here on KZbin.

[@WilliamTheMovieFan]

Anthony Sabularse me too!

[@josephrussell8364]

Me as well... TWO thumbs way up!!

[@Ashrudel]

That was great. What I expect to be just a "Let me show you how much I actually know" turned into a amazing little mini documentary about a subject you have a great passion for. Well done.

[@Vekurus]

It was done so expertly, wasn't it?

[@victoriansword]

Outstanding! This one example of what elevates this channel above others. As a history major and enthusiast, I feel like I understand what this flight meant for you. I’m so happy you were able to do it. Thank you for sharing your experience with all of us!

[@Jshaw71]

Sounds like that commentor was gatekeeping his interest, world war history is an important thing to be shared, and not gatekept, because some feel others aren't worth knowing the history of war, or even having an interest in it...

[@queenannsrevenge100]

Classic cars, history, toys, roleplaying games, video games - gatekeepers abound. We (me especially) need to have more courage to tell them to buzz off.

[@Jshaw71]

@@queenannsrevenge100 whose to say they'll listen? But it is worth a try

[@rexhazelwood7302]

agreed

[@IsiahTomas]

Gonna be honest, years from now, I'm going to be glad when a lot of these 21st century "PC" "terms" serve as examples when society backpedaled on progress in order to serve their more selfish, entitled wants. As opposed to, I don't know, genuine, shared and reasonable debates between people over two opposing opinions that may not be completely right, but still contain positive merits.

[@Jshaw71]

@@IsiahTomas whatever term is used is irrelevant, as long as it applies, abd gatekeeping seems to apply here, sorry if that bothers you, but it's an apt term, if you ask me, and I know you didn't, and that's ok, buy if the shoe fits...

[@funnypicturescomics]

"Stay in your lane?" LOL...Definitely NOT the thing you should be saying to RETROBLASTING. BAND OF BROTHERS is one of my all time favorite series. Glad you were able to live out one of your dreams! Just followed you on twitter: claysisk

[@JosefMeditz]

That was definitely a "Mike Drop" in more ways than one, especially with that brief moment of the air duel. Been a history buff since my Step-father fought in the Pacific. And like you, the little film with Indy that sparked something with others like me personally with my paintings/models of the China Clipper planes along with my vintage fedora collection. Glad that you had to the chance to experience that, Mike. Awesome video.

[@scottboyer8450]

My grandfather was a bomber pilot in WWII and for about a decade afterwards. His war would be in the Pacific, against Japan and his home would be Saipan and Tinian islands where he flew B-29's under the command of General Curtis LeMay. He few B-17's when he first joined the USAAF (1943) but never in combat. According to him he flew just about everything with a 'C' or 'B' designation. The last thing he would fly before the now USAF promoted him out of the cockpit would be the B-47. He retired a Lieutenant Colonel in 1965 and passed away in February 2014 at the age of 89. I absolutely appreciate and share your Passion for History Michael and those Old Men you met during your time at RAF Bassingbourn loved to have a young man learn about and appreciate its history.

[@woooster17]

Excellent rebuttal. As a proud Englishmen, I have a huge fascination and interest in all things Spitfire and the period of the war during the Battle of Britain. I was pedalling my bike to RAF Uxbridge and RAF Northolt as a young teen to stare at the Spitfire gate guardians. I ended up joining the boys RAF, the ATC, Denham squadron ATC in the mid 1980s. This allowed me to shoot and March with the QCS at RAF Uxbridge, and fly in De-Havilland Chipmunks 3 times. Twice aerobatic. I now live reasonably close to RAF Hendon and not so far to RAF Duxford. I even had the wonderful experience of sitting in the cockpits of Mk1 Spitfire N3200 & MkIIb Hurricane BE505 at Duxford a few months ago. What an amazing experience that was! Anyway, great video. One of my favourite books on the Spitfire would have to be by Alex Henshaw, called ‘Sigh for a Merlin’ excellent book. ‘First Light’ by Geoffrey Wellum is also an incredible read.. as well as now film. Edit. My great uncle was a Lancaster bomber pilot with 100 squadron. He was KIA Feb 1943 aged only 23. I am very proud to have his logbook. Lest We Forget.

[@austinsmith2010]

I watched a lot of the old war movies with my Dad on the weekends I was at his house. The Great Escape is still one of my all-time favorite movies.

[@czechdownunder4130]

To that "other youtuber" I believe the word you are looking for is OWNED

[@johnr7279]

Awesome! The best part is at 3:56. "And then they'd laugh and laugh." A bit mischevious perhaps but really just good natured fun in all its glory! So cool how you tied the mighty Spitfire to the mighty X-Wing. I think you're right on about it NOT being inspired by the Mustang (also a mighty bird and had the Spit's engine to boot!) Your time in England and interest in the RAF is clear and I did not miss that you even pronounce Hurricane in the English way. Good on you for looking up Art Donahue. He's from the same neck as the woods that I came from: southern Minnesota. Those shots of the Cliffs of Dover were amazing. This was one of your best!

[@glennsalsi]

Hi Michael, Basingbourne and Duxford?! 30 year old living in Hertfordshire and watching this video it made me feel so emotional as I have been to both of these places myself; it’s amazing even though we haven never met and live on opposite sides of the world we share such similar experiences; thank you for such great content!

[@MadDragon-lb7qg]

Holy cow! I've seen a Spitfire having it's engine running at a 40's day at Hurn aircraft museum next to Bournemouth International Airport, Dorset back in 2013...it was amazing to hear by the way....but getting the chance to fly in it!!!! You are one lucky fella.

[@Badgers0710]

God damn, the Rolls Royce Merlin is a beautiful little piece of machinery. I get giddy seeing the museum pieces in Imperial War and Science Museums in London. You lucky duck getting to go up in one around Battle of Britain day. The atmosphere must've been electric! Another fantastically researched and pieced together video with a subject near and dear to me. Adore the Y Wing/Hurricane comparison as a huge lover of both of those craft.

[@Azizopolis]

Rolls Royce also makes the Pegasus engine for the Harrier; one of my favourite fighters.

[@scottboyer8450]

the hair on the back of my neck stands up and I get goose bumps every time I hear a Merlin, whether its from a Spit, a Mustang or anything else. For my money there is no better sound.

[@white-dragon4424]

I'm pretty sure that the later Spit in the above film has a Griffin rather than a Merlin, but what the hell!

[@Azizopolis]

@ugly looser I should I have been clear on that. Yes, I was referring to the carrier-based variant. But thank you for making the point.

[@dcanmore]

@@white-dragon4424 Spitfire IX Tr9 MJ772 has the Merlin 61 engine. RR Griffon was used on the later series XII Spitfires.

[@jeremylemings]

And this right here shows why you are more than 'just a toy reviewer'. Many would explain the history of a toy, but you go beyond and explain the history of the toy's inspiration. Many years ago, my elementary school went to the National Museum of the USAF in Dayton, Ohio. Many of the specifics have left me over the last thirty years, but the one thing I'll never forget, is when they let my class climb into the cockpit of one of the fighters. I, sadly, don't remember which fighter, (I think it was a Mustang. I was seven, sue me) but sitting in that cockpit began my love of the old prop planes.

[@chrislorusso433]

Fantastic video Michael. Looks like you found a new "lane" for us to enjoy.

[@Exar_Kun]

This is such a badass video Michael!! Some of my personal favorite WWII drama shows are “War and Remembrance” and “Winds of War”.

[@xdshepard37]

Watching you digitally punch trolls has become one of my favorite pastimes. I watch Jabba's Barge at least once a week. But this actually tops that. Shep

[@rexhazelwood7302]

I personally want to thank you for this video. It has been a lot of years but as a teenager, a friend of mine who was big into ww2 history & warplanes introduced me when he had created a pen & paper game called "Sortie" ( similar to the old Dungeons & Dragons game). I became fascinated by the various warplanes & more importantly, the pilots. I read books about Douglas Bader, Papy Boyington & Adolf Galland among others. You may have rekindled my interest & I applaud you, sir!

[@boblowes]

That was a really lovely little film about something you obviously have a real connection to and appreciation for. As a Briton, you can't avoid WWII history. The house I lived in when I was born had bomb damage, because there was a Spitfire production plant down the road. I've always considered the Battle of Britain as perhaps the lost important battle in the whole Second World War - if we'd have lost that (as we so nearly did), then there wouldn't have been any way to base US and Canadian forces, along with Free French, Poles, etc and act as a staging ground for D-Day later on. I often think about what it must have been like to be alive at that time, when freedom on oppression seemed like a distant dream. There's a series running on the BBC at the moment - "World on Fire", and is doing an excellent job at telling the earliest days of WWII from multiple perspectives. It states Helen Hunt and Sean Bean. I would also urge everyone to watch Harry Saltzman's "Battle of Britain" to get a good overview of what those months were like. Personally, I learnt a lot about the Battle of Britain from the old Amiga combat flight simulator. The campaign in that game took place over the sand amount of time, and the manual had a comprehensive breakdown of the BoB. It's still worth playing today if you have a suitable emulator.

[@WilliamTheMovieFan]

Thank you so much for sharing this Micheal and Melinda! Dude, you and I are cut from the same cloth. I have a huge interest in WW1 and WW2, and Star Wars. My uncle was a B-26 pilot in WW2. He told me about flying missions over France and Germany. One of his most vivid memories is when his squadron was on a mission over France. Being medium fast bombers, they flew lower than heavy bombers. He looked down and saw a German tank commander pointing up towards them directing the infantry to fire at them, just as a bomb from a plane ahead and right of theirs, hit the tank. He said the men just vanished and the tank turret flew into the air. He vividly described that moment, which happened in 2 seconds from 50 years ago, back in 1997. The expression on his face spoke volumes. One of my other uncles never talked about his service in the Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during WW2.

[@Bather12]

Brilliant! And Uxbridge is really near where I live here, in Marlow. I should really take the time to go and check it out. Love it x

[@blueberrywine69]

This video....Michael's passion unapologetic approach....and I could go on and on....making my stupid leaky eye leak....keep up the amazingly amazing great work

[@skyhighwayvintagetoys4286]

You were an eagle scout? congratulations! Great video, that must've been an incredible experience and I'm glad you shared.

[@luke1433]

Videos like this should be the reason why KZbin exists in the first place. It's extraordinary just how much of your passion you have been able to portray within a seventeen-minute timestamp. Whether it was intentional or not, I especially loved how the title of the video refers to the correlation between Star Wars and WWII, and yet the main focus of the video is devoted to your personal experiences and fulfillment regarding the Battle of Britain. It's as if you're mocking the notion that people are to be judged by their online hobbies, it's awesome. Hearing about your rise from the Eagle Scout projects at Bassingbourn to flying in an authentic piece of WWII history was one of those heartfelt, sincere experiences that I scarcely see in social media and I greatly appreciate you telling your stories. I think this video was one of the best you've ever done, and I really do wish more people would watch it.

[@ryanfoley8035]

Good video my Great uncle was on Omaha beach as part of the big red one

[@artkingofwholefoods74]

Micheal won the argument when he showed the “Stunt Fighter” clip...

[@morteforte7033]

It's not "what" you talk about, it's the passion you have FOR it that counts the most. I honestly could listen to you talk about anything as long as it's something your passionate about.

[@demoskunk]

Beautifully done. This had tears streaming down my face in admiration and appreciation for what the RAF accomplished through perseverance. Thanks for sharing this experience with us!

[@huntspoint]

EXCELLENT VIDEO OF AN EXCELLENT MOMENT! Whoever told you to stay in your lane need to kick rocks and stay home AWAY from the internet! Great video! And keep up the always great work Michael!

[@MrMaich75]

Huge respect! I was in the RAF for 10 years and I couldn't get enough of the pure joy and thrill of it. I wasn't a pilot,I was a driver so I used to refuel all the aircraft and get up close and personal,it was my job,I was at the UK's most northerly fighter base so I saw and experienced so much,I miss it tons. Thank u! Been following retroblasting for years,never had a clue about your passion for this! Blown away! Keep up the amazing work!

[@retroblasting]

Thank you so much for your service in the RAF, Ian. You are, literally, one of my heroes by default. - Michael

[@davidfaust90125]

The Dam Busters is one of my favorite WWII movies and it's all thanks to Star Wars (and Pink Floyd's The Wall) that I even know about it.

[@andrewwallace7845]

I really love that you did this episode. We really don’t think enough how blessed we are for the sacrifices of the thousands of men like Mr Donahue. I’m Andrew Wallace I’m almost 14 and have been a subscriber for about 3 years and love all your content. My Papa would have loved this, I feel Michael and him would have gotten along. He had a small model of a Spitfire in his office, his name was Jack Wallace From Starkville Mississippi . Thank you Retroblasting, and God Bless.

[@richhawkins8110]

I love the old WW2 films my father, brother and I watched together on video when I was a kid. Battle of Britain, The Eagle Has Landed, A Bridge Too Far, Where Eagles Dare, The Longest Day. Great memories of rainy Sunday afternoons. It was my first exposure to the sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom. I'll never forget.

[@CarltonWhitfield]

As always excellent video, but this was something different, when you spoke of flying over the white cliffs of Dover in a spitfire, it is no exaggeration to say it gave me chills. Thank you for sharing this.

[@robscalise]

Came across this on channel. This was an exceptional story Michael!

[@samuelelder9434]

You sir have a good soul and have a very loving family for arranging an experience like that

[@christopherdilloway4836]

I've long been a history buff, too, although my WWII interest skewed toward the Pacific theater since my grandfather served there as a Navy Seabee. Sadly, he passed before I could get to talk to him about his experiences and from what I've been told, he never really talked much about his service, but I have a feeling we could've had some great conversations. More recently, I've begun to delve into the European theater history. It's important to maintain and learn the history of the past since those who fought and lived during that time are gone now, and with them, their knowledge and experience. I am glad Michael had the chance to work with and learn from those veterans. It is indeed important never to forget both the horrors and atrocities AND the bravery and sacrifices made. Glad you got to go on that Spitfire ride :)

[@AnalogToys]

I've watched this about 5 times now and it's still incredible viewing. Outstanding work Michael!

[@ferg1680]

Thank you Mike, this video brought back stories from my late Father who was on the ground in Germany and France, and he would tell me that when he would hear P51 air cover coming he knew he could take a breather and have a cigarette, and he wasn’t a smoker!... Lol Thank you for being real...that’s it Brother Cheers

[@JMChladek]

You are more than qualified to talk about WW2 and the Supermarine Spitfire. My own toy interests and hobbies helped to chart my path on a love of history. Writing articles about models helped be to refine my writing style to where I am now a published aerospace historian. Building and weathering techniques on my Trek and SW models easily are adaptable to my historical aircraft models. Two of my favorites are of course the X-Wing (original 1978 issue MPC kit) done up as Red Leader and an Airfix 1/48 Spitfire Mk I built and painted up as a 1939 vintage bird from 19 Squadron Duxford. Two of "The Few".

[@jasonparker8232]

This looked like it was an awesome experience for you! I too have an interest in WWII history that was brought on from the stories that my dad and uncles told me of serving in the war. Dad worked at Bowing in Seattle WA and worked on the B17 Flying Fortresses so that is my favorite plane from the war. He also was involved in the Battle of the Bulge and I have a lot of interest in it. He was an engineer in the 99th Infantry and was later absorbed into the 1st Infantry that they refereed to as the "Big Red 1."

[@antoniovistcoatis1541]

Great video as always Michael! I am big plane fan in general. One of my favorite places to visit is the US AIr force Air Museum in Dayton OH. Such a great place for planes and they have soooo many WW2 planes from all countries. Great place to spend the day and its free! If you ever wanna visit the museum let me know would be happy to go with you and hang out. And btw, way to stick to the jerk that made that comment, I hope they have the honor and respect make a formal apology to you.

[@purplesmurf1327]

Blown. Away. Fantastic video sir! The connection of A New Hope and Dambusters is another undeniable link between SW and British WWII history

[@turtle-tank8231]

I love how the clone wars gave a WW2 radio style narration at the start of the episodes and would love to see black and white star wars with the radio host news from the battle front narration

[@art-n-filmsam3844]

Hey Michael, Loved the video and the history lesson. This inspired me to look into the Battle of Britain further. In doing so I found something I wanted to share. The song "Aces in Exile" by Sabaton - a tribute to the 303rd of Poland, the 310th of Czechoslovakia, and the 401st of Canada. Heroes whose sacrifice I would never have heard of if not for you and Sabaton. Thank you

[@Ljordan093]

The Spitfire and the Curtis P-40, my personal favorites.

[@cphughes100]

This is a wonderful video Michael. I feel that your time here in the UK helped mould you far more than perhaps some would think. The sacrifices that servicemen made in World War II cannot be underestimated, and as you will know are the cornerstone of our Remembrance Day. As that brave generation slowly departs, it is left to those who came after to continue to ensure the next generations recognise that sacrifice. This video does just that.

[@Faben32]

I'll admit, I was a little confused by the title of the video but then I watched and was pleasantly surprised by the presentation I was given. It almost had nothing to do with star wars but instead turned out to be a magnificently composed history lesson, even more so. This was an amazingly well put together video. My dad may be a submarine buff but his 30 years as an airplane engine designer for Boeing, I can't wait to show him this. This was so awesome, RB. And I hope you guys do more of these in the future because I love being educated on what your passion is. Thank you so much.

[@derektorres6260]

As a US Military Retiree, this is one of the coolest videos I have ever seen. With your love of WWII I'm surprised you never served

[@retroblasting]

There was, thanks to that generation, no immediate conflict, and my parents, while certainly supporters of veterans, asked that I attend college instead. Sometimes it happens that way.

[@derektorres6260]

@@retroblasting and that's the great thing about our country, not everyone has to serve.

[@nps1016]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us viewers, you’re so lucky to have flown in a Spitfire. I don’t know too many people who were into the Brutish side of WW2, most the Americans in the Pacific and European theaters. I’m particular fond of The Flying Tigers, the First American Volunteer Group (AVG) that was part of the Chinese Air Force In 1941-42. Led by Claire Lee Channault. The group saw action starting in December 20, 1941 and ended in July 4, 1942 when they were absorbed into 23rd Fighter Group Of The U.S. Army Air Force having shoot down 296 enemy aircraft and losing 14 aircraft, I even a few of their patches . A couple notable books about Gen. Chennault and the Flying Tigers are A Few Planes For China: The Birth Of The Flying Tigers by Eugene Buchain and Flying Tiger: The True Story Of General Chaire Chennault and the U. S. 14th Air Force In China by Jack Sampson. Thanks to the brave men in China and the U.S. volunteers in Britain they saw the enemy for what they were and risked their lives and Citizenship so others can be free.

[@justinreilly6619]

I got chills when the Merlin engine fired up, it sounded so good. The Death Star run in New Hope was pretty much lifted from the 1955 film The Dam Busters so absolutely, the DNA of this film was absolutely inspired from WWII. Lovely post, you shot some great footage whilst in the Spitfire Michael. 👍

[@edmundscycles1]

I would have said 633 squadron rather than damn busters.

[@justinreilly6619]

@@edmundscycles1 you may have made a good point! This may be correct.

[@edmundscycles1]

@@justinreilly6619 I was thinking of the type of attack . A bomb tossed against a small target and a trench run .

[@justinreilly6619]

@@edmundscycles1 definitely possible. The bombers flew down a valley and I thought in The Dam Busters film of flak positions all along the valley before the Lancasters released their bouncing bomb payloads. But I haven't watched either films for over 20 years maybe and its possible I've mixed everything up in my mind.

[@edmundscycles1]

@@justinreilly6619 hang on I'll get a side by side comparison

[@TheLavadiver]

Great vid. Both my grandfathers and a grand uncle served in ww2 (pacific theatre). One on a B-17 crew, the other on a Navy destroyer, and my grand uncle a Corsair pilot. I will remember their stories for the rest of my life. It's a golden opportunity to do what you did and I'm happy to hear you had such a great experience.

[@1dbanner]

This is beyond the droll fan service videos that hemorrhoid KZbin, Michael. This is a beautiful, historical, and above all, deeply personal memento of your encounter with our collective past. It's a grievous error to think the past is simply "back there," and has zero impact with our present. You continue to underline those reverberations throughout our pop culture through uniquely personal ways like this phenomenal video, which underline David McCullough's mantra that, "History is human."

[@theviking6052]

I will NEVER FORGET! These men are the greatest we ever produced

[@Bertonator]

This was the most extraordinary video yet. Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge. I knew George Lucas used WWII footage to construct animatics for the battle scenes, it never occurred to me that SW was metaphorically was WWII. This video was very enlightening as well as awe-inspiring. Just watching you ride in the Spitfire was nothing short of amazing. You never cease to amaze me. 😎👌

[@suflanker45]

The number one rule in air to air combat. Whoever sees the other first usually wins the fight. Keep your eyes constantly scanning the sky because you never know if you are going to be jumped by another vintage warbird. Just to post this for those who don't know, the Hurricane usually went after the German bombers while the Spit took on the fighters. I'm a Corsair guy myself. All those Black Sheep Squadron TV episodes I grew up watching.

[@johnr7279]

One test of just how good a video is hinged upon how re-watchable it is. This one is very rewatchable! Just as enjoyable as the first time I saw it!

[@seavee2000]

Very good video-grew up on the outskirts of Biggin Hill,and have a home in the shadows of Dover Castle,the Spits are often seen flying over on the clear days,sometimes in loose formation, an unforgettable sound and sight.

[@gregorymoore2877]

“Stay in your lane” yeah right. Some people have many lanes. WWII is definitely one of yours. Beautiful video! I love that there are so many WWII movies being produced in recent years. I haven’t been able to them all but I really enjoyed Dunkirk; The Monument’s Men; The Imitation Game; Pearl Harbor; etc.

[@samwats5848]

right on buddy.. i recommend Europe and visiting Ypres, Somme, Versailles, Brussels etc... seeing some of memorials and ground battle sights of WW1 & WW2.. many craters still exist from the massive ammunition detonations, and trenches..you touched on something very hard to experience, but seeing sights of trench warfare and battle fields is one you can do on a walking holiday.. there are so many graves.. the ones that really cut deep are the graves with multiple names, no way to discern them apart, just pieces.. everyone will find family names.. heart wrenching stuff.. your video gave me goosebumps, thanks buddy.. 'doodlebugs' were terrifying childhood story my grandparents would tell me, "we never worried until we heard the engine start to cut out. they'd cut in and out, then , silence, and hear the whistle as they plummeted towards us".. if you go stay in Belgium you can nip over to France, Germany and Holland very easily.. as kids in the 80s we would always play in the hexagon concrete bunkers that pepper the British coastline all the time.. hell was one in my school field.. and we were are 10 miles inland (at least)..

[@Lordinvdious]

Micheal, I loved this report...... It was one of the best you have ever done....... Thank you........

[@A.S.028]

Man I love listening to people talk about something they love and are passionate about.

[@colemartin7804]

Thank you so much Michael for sharing your awesome experience with us! I too am a lover of WW2 history. I'm sure I haven't studied as much as I should but there's just something about those old warbirds! I really appreciate this opportunity to see this battlefield in the skies over Dover! Thank you for the ride in the Spitfire! If I had lived back then I would think I would have been a Combat pilot...

[@manko8852]

You really outdid yourself on this video, this should win an award.

[@Slamgod]

I’m a bit late to the party, but that was absolutely wonderful. What a thrill that must have been. And ever so humbling to boot. I too am a fan of the Spitfire, and it’s history and have always believed in the it’s connection with the Star Wars world as well. Incredible story, Micheal. Your a dedicated and very lucky man. 🙂👍🏻

[@koshar44]

This...was different. Thank you Michael.

[@projectcolonialviper2094]

Great job! The Spitfire was a huge inspiration to me as a child, then along came the X-wing in '77 and soon after the Colonial Viper in '78

[@fencingsculptor]

Great video. Thanks for sharing ALL your interests Michael. I'm too am a Gen X lifelong toy collector, model maker, aviation, spaceflight, military, history special effects and paleo enthusiast. I love that interests and passions bleed across and stimulate new and labyrinthine pursuits. I also live a very small stone's throw from Biggin Hill...

[@lunarvision]

Another comment to say how incredibly moving and powerful this video is. It took me by surprise. Respect to you and the brave people who risked their lives.

[@adamtaylor6703]

If you haven't already, watch 'James May's Toy Stories' he builds a 1:1 scale Airfix Spitfire

[@TheDevilinThePaleMoonlight]

One of the most amazing things I've ever seen is watching pro model builders/painters u ever watch Plasmo channel he makes some of the greatest models I've ever seen, truly works of art.

[@colemartin7804]

I saw "May" do that episode. It was cool!..

[@Percy66c]

I can see you're a fan of Dad's army.

[@loons13]

we,re doomed, doomed!!!!

[@Percy66c]

loons13 You stupid boy!

[@ferg1680]

Percy66 c - I know I am 🇺🇸 The American soldiers who fought in WW2...are a rare breed of guts and toughness....🇺🇸bless our troops caught up in this current mess !🇺🇸

[@Percy66c]

Ferg Wait what?

[@brianartillery]

A classic show. Still funny, even now. What makes it great is if you really pay attention to it, all human life is there. The characters are all rounded believable human beings, some with secrets, like the bumbling Godfrey, who, although was a conscientious objector in the First World War, served as a stretcher bearer with the Royal Army Medical Corps and saved several men under fire at the Battle Of The Somme, for which he was awarded the Military Medal. The character of Pike, the 'Stupid Boy', is based on the show's creator, Jimmy Perry, who served in a Home Guard platoon.

[@tonywilliams6428]

@0:30 I do believe I recognize our local National Museum of the United States Air Force here in Dayton (I believe you mentioned last year that you were going to go for the unveiling of the Belle). For anyone who is a WWII, or aviation enthusiast in general, I can't recommend visiting the Museum enough. My Great Uncle was a WWII tank commander and D-Day participant, so I've always had an interest in WWII and thankfully a great resource in my Uncle. My Step Dad had been an AF pilot and worked for McDonnell-Douglas, and Dayton is a hub of aviation history, so I share your love of planes and to say I'm jealous of your flight in the Spitfire is an understatement! Great vid, as always.

[@resolute123]

It's so awesome by chance you got the shot of the Spit jumping you.

[@BluGhostCustoms]

For sure Micheal, its a treat to come to your channel seeking one thing and also being exposed or learn of another.

[@bushranger8960]

The Star Wars OT is basically ww2 in space, which is one of the reasons it’s so loved by many. The biggest influence for the ending of ANH and ROTJ was the 1955 film The Dam Busters!

[@RACC_970]

And this is why i love this channel and all of it´s creators, you get the big picture of the things that we call passion! what ever it may be. Thank you Retroblasting!

[@Caleb.Collects98]

Awesome video as usual, but this one was extra special. One of my favorite WW2 movies is Where Eagles Dare. I can remember watching that movie with my Dad countless times.

[@curtisorth5152]

That was great!!! The video was so gorgeous and I know I'll be watching it again and again. Such a stirring tribute to those brave and courageous pilots that thought not of themselves, but of all who they were defending, true selflessness. You hit it out of the park with this one and it really moved me bro!!!

[@markgriffith3076]

Michael you have no idea how much this video meant to me.....it was incredible.......although please don't forget the Royal New Zealand Air force as they deserve a huge mention.....My Father was one of their heroic Spitfire pilots who fought over France and Germany in WW2 so you could say Spitfires are in my blood. It's why I'm a MASSIVE Star Wars fan because of the Spitfire/Xwing connection. Thank you for making this video....really touched my heart😊🙏

[@retroblasting]

I always group RAF/RZAF/RCAF/RAAF/RSAF together. Otherwise it gets rather cumbersome Mark.

[@jackphoton]

Beautiful piece not only historically and personally, but perfectly shows to never judge anything or anyone by the wrapper,

[@dazthedarklord774]

Exceptional piece you chaps. It even had me in tears by the end. Beautifully made, and your knowledge and Shere love of the conflict shi es through. I'm from Yorkshire in England and I just loved it. I'm a massive fan your channel anyway but this piece was something else. Top notch retroblasting.... Top notch. 👌 👍 👏

[@sinjinsailing]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video! Both as a WWII history buff, and as a fan of 1977 Star Wars. This was indeed heartfelt, and an outstanding historical presentation as well. I've had two flight experiences on a B-17G, and I'm happy (and envious) of your experience in the iconic Spitfire! I've also been an admirer of WWII uniforms.. The RAF jacket has such an incredible look about it, and I believe the Ike Jacket was patterned after that British design...

[@lukerope1906]

I still can't decide if it's my love of X-wings that love WW2 aircraft, or vice versa. But right next to Star Wars is my collection of over 100 planes of various sizes and types.

[@jonwagner6220]

A true and authentic voice in the toy collectible scene

[@kevinschoenfelt6587]

I'm a WW1 guy myself. I'm also a scale model guy. WW2 vehicles are by far my favorite to build, especially bombers. The nose art is fantastic.

[@jonathanclancy1222]

Superb video Michael! As a fellow history buff this video got me right in the feels. Thanks for sharing! Cheers!

[@robertadamcik9179]

Outstanding!!!!!! I loved the story of the Memphis Belle! And getting your Eagle Scout badge from Captain Dearborn, amazing!!! Like many of the commenters below, I have a history degree and am the author of two books on the Space Shuttle, and I have to say, well done!!!!!!!

[@retroblasting]

Hey Robert, the actual name of the Belle pilot is Col. Robert Morgan. The names in the movie were fictionalized.

[@retroblasting]

And thank you so much for the kind words.

[@robertadamcik9179]

@@retroblasting, did not know that! Thanks! Learned something new today.

[@robertadamcik9179]

@@retroblasting, no worries! History guys need to stick together.

[@TheNakedSilo]

Beautifully told and quite moving. Well done, Michael. Well done.

[@chrisbond8331]

An absolutely fantastic video, thank you for continuous stellar content. My great uncle was killed in the Battle of the Bulge and is buried in Belgium, So I have a fascination with WWII as well

[@Alex-cv6iv]

This is my favorite of your videos. I went through the same Battle of Britain/RAF History research deep dive for the same reasons, heroes, insurmountable odds, unbelievable human endurance and resilience. I too grew up watching those same classics and am incredibly jealous that you got to go see and do all those things (my Eagle Scout project was exponentially less cool). I took a trip to the England back in 2016 and spent the entire week at the RAF Museum pouring over all of the display Spitfires but alas never got to fly in one. I have two book recommendations that I didn’t see in your stack that I can recommend. “Battle of Britain Day” by Dr. Alfred Price, whom has done a lot of books about all marks of the Spitfire for Osprey publishing and breaks down the events of September 15th by the minute to include aircraft losses, the crews that flew that day both Luftwaffe and RAF, and riveting photos of a Hurricane from 501 Sqdn ramming a Dornier over the city. Also “Smoke Trails in the Sky” by Anthony Bartley who recounts a lot of his time with 92 Squadron and the fighter pilot lifestyle. He did a lot of his time at Dunkirk and in the closing weeks of the battle. He recounts flying with some of the household name aces like Bob Stanford Tuck, Brian Kingcome, and Johnnie Kent. Really showed how pilots rotated through different squadrons and platforms throughout that period. Been a fan of your channel for a long time and love your content. Your unplugged videos are my favorite and we share a lot of the same sentiments. Keep up the great work and never mind the haters, they should clearly stay in their lane 😂.

[@Blocksetter]

Superb channel, and then I watch this. Very emotional, thanks for posting Michael Steve

[@goldenrootsnet]

Thanks for sharing your experience! It really helps in giving a glimpse in the life of a WW2 pilot

[@JohnAquariusPodcast]

wow just wow like this is some authentic star wars fandom stuff you went straight to the source great vid, and you got be in one and fly around i loved it. again thanks for sharing that experince.

[@j.t.w.7985]

I am glad that this Comment Made you reply with that outstanding video! Thank you for Showing that facette of your interest and Character!

[@jedimadrox]

man, you took it out of the park with this one. thanks.