The Glider Pilot Regiment (2011)
2h 0min
- General info
- Available formats
- Synopsis:
In a stunning opening move to the 1940 Campaign, the Germans captured the Belgian super fortress of Eban Emael through the expert use of gliders. Causing shock-waves throughout the world, an impressed Winston Churchill swept aside objections and ordered the formation of British Airborne Forces, complete with the order to build hundreds of gliders in June 1940. In the five years that followed, the Glider Pilot Regiment distinguished itself as one of the most fearless and successful airborne divisions of the entire war. This fascinating video charts the history of the famous Glider Pilot Regiment, from its inception in June 1940 through its extraordinary achievements during the Second World War. The film begins with veterans recalling their experiences of the demanding selection and training process, in which pilots were expected to fight alongside the infantry that they transported into battle - the concept of the 'Total Soldier' was born! The film charts a selection of the Regiment s most successful battles, starting with the first small scale attempt to destroy the German Heavy Water Plant in Norway to the near disastrous invasion of Sicily in July 1943. Returning to the UK, the GPR went through an expansion to cater with Montgomery's D-Day plan. In an epic feat of flying, six Horsas delivered a dramatic start to the invasion; the capture of Pegasus Bridge, quickly followed by the Battle of Arnhem. Veterans of the campaign recall fighting alongside other airborne soldiers, with tales of heroism and fortitude that culminated in the anguish and evacuation across the Rhine. At the Rhine Crossing, the errors of Arnhem were not to be repeated and in a massive single lift, 6th Airborne Division swept down on the defenders. Although the Division enjoyed many successes, casualties in the air and on the ground were heavy. Complimented by two bonus videos on the Horsa and Waco Gliders, this DVD gives a fascinating insight to this outstanding regiment and is ideal for military and aviation enthusiasts. - Studio:
- Pen and Sword Books Ltd
- Genres:
- Documentary