This is Web Uebelhoer, pilot with the 445th Bomb Group, who features in our latest The Mighty Eighth Podcast episode about the Kassel Mission. Full interview, courtesy of the Joe Dzenowagis family archive, is here: youtu.be/SE_Y9AoLhJ0?si…

It's probably the most iconic image of Forresses in flight. Used in most WWII history books and features... Ridgewell Airfield Commemorative Museum Paul Bingley

Wow, Tim, so much to unpack here. The double tow on C47, deliberate water landing, and Hap Arnold observing. We need a date in relation to Op Ladbroke?

Well, no more tours for me this side of Christmas. It's time to press on with writing deadlines, The Mighty Eighth Podcast podcasts, and some more research. I am looking forward to a productive winter.

I know that a lot of hard work has gone into researching and collating this valuable piece of work. It is one of those important background stories that underpins a major historical narrative. In this case, shaping the character of our Army.

19 January 2026 - a date for your WW2 history diary. I will be speaking at the Army Flying Museum about Operation Fustian. The British 1st Parachute Brigade will drop 1800+ troops on the Ponte Primosole crossing on the Catania Plain. More details from ArmyFlyingMuseum

11 November 1940. Flying from Belgium, Regia Aeronautica, made its one and only major bombing raid on Britain (Harwich). A formation of 12 Fiat BR 20 bombers and 40 Fiat CR 42 fighters were intercepted by Hurricanes from 17, 46 & 257 squadrons.

Approaching for general release on Nov. 12th, Andy Bryant and Kevin Getz have a pint with Dr. John Greenacre for an interesting discussion on the little-known Op MANNA. What was it, and how did the 2nd Independent Parachute Brigade fare?

I'm just coming to the end of my current read. It really is an absorbing memoir that deftly combines contemporary material, with later life interviews and historian input. Review to follow, but highly recommended.

Might have to move my kit to the top of my pile of shame. Probably go for the SFOR scheme...

I have posted my review of Surviving Three Shermans on my LinkedIn account: linkedin.com/posts/mike-pet…

Interesting footage Tim. Similar trials were done with British gliders. Although the Lancaster could easily tow all types, it was considered too valuable as a bomber to be allocated to tug duties. Only the Halifax could tow the Hamilcar.

AAC Granby veterans - We are currently compiling the history of the AAC involvement in Gulf War 1. We welcome contributions to Ops Normal Volume 2. Please get in touch at [email protected]

It was a genuine privilege to be invited to attend the UK screening of the new WWII Foundation film on Enigma at Bletchley Park. Another informative film made in an accessible format that will open up this story to a wide audience. Look out for its general release next spring.

Breaking Enigma: A World War II Game Changer on WWII Streaming Channel thewwiifoundation.vhx.tv/videos/breakin…

I had the pleasure of doing some filming yesterday for a WWII Foundation project linked to the 379th BG at Kimbolton. There are so many stories to tell about the men of the triangle 'K'. The remarkable 'Swamp Fire' the B17G that flew 100 missions without an abort! More to come...

I will be at the Army Flying Museum telling the story of Ponte Primosole and Operation Fustian - The Battle of the Drop Zones. One of the few times in history that Airborne troops were both parachuted and airlanded onto the same battlefield. Information below:

Happy Birthday Peter Caddick-Adams! He is a great military historian, accomplished author, consumate professional battlefield guide, and an all-around good egg. Have a good one, old friend.

My weekend read and review covers one of the most daring raids of WWII. Although it is not a comprehensive history of Doolittle's strike on Japan, it is a really useful complimentary source that gives biographical insight into the 16 Pilots that flew the mission and their fates.