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In the final episode of this series, hosts James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford Lowes are joined by the head of the Norwegian War Graves Service, Haakon Vinje, to explore the often-overlooked contributions of Norwegian airmen in RAF Bomber Command during World War II. They discuss the Norwegian War Graves Service, the invasion of Norway, and share poignant personal stories of bravery and sacrifice, including the legacy of Nordal Grieg.
The team also talk about some of the RAF Bomber crews who now lie at rest in Norway, and Jane shares her reflections from her visits to the war cemeteries in Narvik and Trondheim.
The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of remembering these heroes and their stories.
Jane and James will be back in the early summer with series 3.
Takeaways
RAF Bomber Command included a multinational force, including Norwegians.
The Norwegian War Graves Service maintains war graves in Norway.
Norwegian airmen faced great risks to join the RAF during WWII.
Herman Becker's story highlights the personal sacrifices of airmen.
Nordal Grieg is a legendary figure in Norway's history.
The invasion of Norway had significant strategic implications during WWII.
Norwegian airmen were involved in key operations like D-Day.
War graves serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by airmen.
The podcast aims to shed light on lesser-known stories of Bomber Command.
The hosts express gratitude for their listeners' support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to RAF Bomber Command
01:31 The Role of Norwegians in RAF Bomber Command
04:09 Understanding the Norwegian War Graves Service
05:53 The Invasion of Norway and Its Aftermath
08:05 Norwegian Air Force and Its Contributions
10:04 Personal Stories of Norwegian Airmen
14:31 The Story of Lancaster ND815 and D-Day
18:15 The Life and Legacy of Nordal Grieg
23:05 War Graves of RAF Bomber Command Crewmen
26:58 Conclusion and Reflections
30:09 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 -
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In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters ( the penultimate episode of the current series), hosts Jane Gulliford Lowes and James Jefferies engage with Dave Gilbert, the losses archivist at the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln, England. Dave explains the background to the development of the centre, and relates how he (and a team of volunteers) went about compiling the details of over 58,000 men and women who died while serving with, or in support of, RAF Bomber Command.
The team debate the emotional impact of this work, and the importance of providing some biographical detail about every single person listed.
The conversation then turns into the development of navigational technology aboard both RAF and Luftwaffe aircraft.
You can visit the International Bomber Command Centre Losses Database here , and you learn more about the work of the centre here.
Dave's book, written in conjunction with Steve Darlow, Epitaphs of Bomber Command, can be pre-ordered here.
Takeaways
RAF Bomber Command had the highest casualty rate during the war.The International Bomber Command Centre serves as a memorial and educational resource.The losses database is the world's largest free-to-access database of RAF Bomber Command casualties.Inclusivity in documenting losses includes ground crew and associated personnel.Accessing historical records can be challenging due to location and processing issues.The Wall of Names at the IBCC allows families to connect with their loved ones.The emotional weight of the work can be overwhelming for archivists.Epitaphs provide personal insights into the lives of those lost.Technological advancements significantly impacted bombing strategies during the war.Navigational training gave RAF crews an edge over their German counterparts.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to RAF Bomber Command
03:20 The Role of the International Bomber Command Centre
06:08 The Losses Database: Origins and Development
08:28 Inclusivity in Documenting Losses
09:48 Sources of Information for the Database
12:02 The Wall of Names: A Memorial to the Fallen
14:14 Emotional Impact of the Work
16:30 Future of the Database and Ongoing Research
20:55 The Epitaphs of Bomber Command
23:53 Advancements in Bomber Technology
33:21 The Significance of Navigational Techniques
37:46 Engaging Audiences Through Technology
39:25 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 -
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*** (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 LayingSupport 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 -
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*** PART 1 OF 2
***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.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 -
Send us a message or question!
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 -
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 Peter’s remarkable journey from German school boy to RAF Bomber Command pilot, his wartime experiences—including being shot down, captured, and making daring escapes—and the impact of these events on his life and legacy. Marc also reflects on how his father’s past shaped their family, culminating in a discussion about his book, which chronicles Peter’s 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 -
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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 -
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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 -
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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 -
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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 -
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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 .
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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 .
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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 -
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Welcome back - Series 2 is here!
In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, hosts Jane Gulliford Lowes and James Jefferies welcome historian Andrew Rawson to discuss the design and manufacture of bomber aircraft during World War II. The conversation covers the evolution of the aircraft industry from pre-war rearmament to the establishment of shadow factories, the role of women in the workforce, and the challenges of resource allocation and production management. The episode highlights the significant numbers of aircraft produced and the vast workforce required to support the war effort, emphasizing the often-overlooked industrial side of military history.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 .
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🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
In this final episode of the series, James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford Lowes are joined by Dr Dan Ellin to reflect on the significance of Christmas during the Second World War, particularly for RAF Bomber Command crews during the winter of 1943.
They discuss personal stories, listener contributions, and the harsh realities faced by airmen and ground staff during the festive season. The episode highlights the contrast between the holiday spirit and the grim realities of war, while also sharing humorous anecdotes and family memories.
Special thanks to Bill Dawson, Heather Evans and Stuart Bertie for sharing their family stories.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!
WARNING: This episode includes discussion of issues surrounding the Holocaust and genocide which some listeners may find distressing.
In this episode, the hosts engage in a profound discussion with Dr. Waitman Beorn about the controversial topic of whether the Allies could and should have bombed Auschwitz during World War II. They explore the historical context, the knowledge the Allies had about the Holocaust, the technological capabilities of air power at the time, and the moral implications of such a decision. The conversation delves into the complexities of wartime decision-making and the tragic consequences of inaction, ultimately questioning the Allies' response to the Holocaust.
You can read more about Waitman's work here
Marching into Darkness: The Wehrmacht in Belarus
Also discussed in this episode: Michael Neufeld (Editor): The Bombing of Auschwitz.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 -
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In this episode, James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford Lowes engage in a lively discussion with author Luke Turner about the complexities of Bomber Command's history, model-making, the legacy of the Dambusters film, his fascination with 158 Squadron, and the personal stories of individuals like Bertram Warr. They explore themes of masculinity, memory, and the importance of memorials, while also addressing the overshadowing of lesser-known squadrons and operations. The conversation highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of war narratives and the human experiences behind them.
Luke Turner is a writer and editor, the author of Out of the Woods, and the fabulous Men at WarSupport 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 -
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This week, Jane and James explore the training of bomber crews, and the perilous nature of life at the OTUs and HCUs. They discuss the training structure, the tragic story of a training flight that ended in disaster for the Canadian crew, and the importance of memorializing those who lost their lives in training. Jane talks about a new bomber command memorial and tells a story very close to her heart.
The episode also includes viewer questions about WAAFs on board bombers, volunteering for additional ops, post-war careers for aircrew, the Italian Star campaign medal, dual control aircraft and numerous other bits and pieces!
You can read more about the Slingley Bomber Crash here
We'll post some pictures of the new memorial to the crew on our social media. We also have a new Facebook page/group - here's the link if you want to join.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 this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, hosts Jane Gulliford-Lowes and James Jefferies engage with historian Andrew Bird to explore the often-overlooked role of Coastal Command in the RAF during World War II. The conversation covers the origins and structure of Coastal Command, its critical role in the Battle of the Atlantic, and the ongoing resource struggles between Bomber Command and Coastal Command. Personal stories and casualty rates highlight the human cost of these operations, providing a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made 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 -
Send us a message or question!
In this week's episode, hosts James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford Lowes discuss the significant contributions of African and Caribbean men in RAF Bomber Command during World War II. They are joined by historian John Concagh, who shares insights into the motivations behind these men joining the RAF, the challenges they faced, and their experiences during and after the war. The conversation highlights individual stories of notable airmen, and their struggles against racism.
This conversation explores the experiences of Caribbean aircrew in the RAF during WWII, focusing on personal growth, institutional prejudice, and the lasting impact of their service. It highlights the stories of individuals like Johnny Smyth, Ulric Cross, Cy Grant and Errol Barrow, and discusses the broader implications of their contributions to military desegregation and post-war political landscapes.
Further reading:
John's website and articles : https://jconcagh.weebly.com/
Ulric Cross https://www.rafbf.org/news-and-stories/raf-history/black-history-month-remarkable-legacy-squadron-leader-ulric-cross
There's also a film about Ulric Cross currently showing on BBC iplayer
Cy Grant, his life and work: https://cygrant.com/project/war-memoir
Johnny Smythe https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk/blog/from-sierra-leone-to-the-short-stirling-the-story-of-johnny-smythe/
Errol Barrow https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk/research/online-exhibitions/pilots-of-the-caribbean/heroes-and-sheroes/stateman-flying-officer-errol-walton-barrow/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 - Показать больше
