A friend Why not? I honestly don’t see the problem.. Perhaps YOU are the problem!? An act, or acts of bravery has absolutely nothing to do with one’s religious beliefs, or lack thereof!
I lived in Arnhem all my life, currently in Oosterbeek where this story took place. Im from 1991, I walked the Airbourne event in september 25 times now (got 5 medals) and my grandma worked at the Airbourne museum for 50+ years as volunteer and been royally crowned for it. In this town, stories like theres will NEVER be forgotten, Americans, British, Canadian and Polish (and other) veterans will always be remembered and welcomed with us. (Yes, also from the German side) to remember together. I walk daily with my dogs near a deep ditch in the forest called the pit of hell, its where a handfull of allied soldiers that were ambushed, have taken cover, and fought off german fire for over 36 hours, and won. There are so many untold warstories all over the world, heroes who will never be heard. Lest we forget.
grew up with these men as my family, teachers. bosses, buddies, and Good Friends. RIP GREATEST! "I Love You" miss you! Sorry We let this world you sacrificed and paid for go so Dark for so cheap, not a fight, nothing.
My great grandfather was a veteran of WW2 and I asked him about how he felt about German veterans. "At the time I said (kill them), but now I'd say Im still sore about them but I still say @#*k the government" translated from 1940s angry old Italian man.
Jeremy has such a good voice for things like this, and he's always been a huge history buff. He's often accused of being an idiot or insensitive but he has a huge amount of respect for people like this and as far as I've seen in his private life he's a pretty good person.
@@spencerbissett3417 Don’t forget calling for a woman to be pelted in shit walking through the streets naked for the apparent crime of being black and American
@@Hunterleahy20 Mexicans ought to grow a better sense of humour. The other way round and British people just laugh at it. Not insecure, self deprecating, with nothing to prove. So many people don't need to be so easily offended at some jocular ribbing. Btw it was actually Hammond and May that joked about the Mexicans on that occasion. Clarkson hardly said anything, lol.
Jeremy talked about John Cruickshank the Catalina pilot who won the VC so I looked it up and much to my amazement he's still alive and in 7 days time he celebrates his 100th birthday wow,I seriously hope he's not alone and there are despite the coronavirus,family and people close by to him
who'd have thought that Jeremy Clarkson's father in law would be a bearer of the Victoria Cross; and he never even thought to mention it, that is what you call humble.
@MrBadabimBadabum The way it was phrased, was directed at Jezza, not the father in law. Did you ever " learnt" how to spell in your own native language?
There have been 4 VCs awarded to British soldiers since this documentary was filmed. Pvt Johnson Beharry VC. Princess of Wales Royal Regiment, Iraq 2004. (Awarded in 2005) Cpl Bryan Budd VC. Parachute Regiment, Afghanistan 2006. (Awarded posthumously) L/Cpl James Ashworth VC. Grenadier Guards, Afghanistan 2012. (Awarded posthumously) L/Cpl Joshua Leakey VC. Parachute Regiment, Afghanistan 2013. (Awarded in 2015)
In addition, there have been 5 Commonwealth recipients, Willie Apiata VC, New Zealand Special Air Service, Afghanistan 2007 Mark Donaldson VC, Australian Special Air Service Regiment, Afghanistan 2009 Ben Roberts-Smith VC, Australian Special Air Service Regiment, Afghanistan 2011 Daniel Keighran VC, 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Afghanistan 2012 Cameron Baird VC, Australian 2nd Commando Regiment, Afghanistan 2013 (Awarded posthumously)
I watch this probably once a month and still get goosebumps every time Jeremy mentions the street in Canada with 3 Victoria Cross winners. The street in Winnipeg used to be called Pine Street but was renamed to Valour Road in honor of the 3 men who all won their VC's during WW1, 2 of them posthumously.
@asicdathens usually when you win anything, other than a lottery, it is because you earned it. Olympic gold medal for example, you may be awarded it, but you sure as hell still have to win it.
@@TheDaverobinson the landing zones were too far from the bridge, subsequent reinforcements were dropped closer but by then, the Germans were alerts and prepared for them (witness the massacre of the Polish airborne division dropped in support, right into the Germans). There is also the issue of the intel on the SS Panzer division being ignored because the mission was planned out and advanced by the time they were spotted by reconnaissance. Essentially, the brass decided to go anyway, believing the 2nd army would get there, despite the obvious issues.
The bridge you see in the footage is most of the time what is now the Nelson Mandela bridge. The John Frost bridge is (seen from Oosterbeek) even beyond that one. It is 6-7 km from Oosterbeek, so indeed the bridge was even further away.
I completely agree, I do hope to see him again on television, perhaps presenting on historical documentaries, particularly on conflict - you can see his flair and interest in history... it was the same on top gear when he would tell the story of various manufacturers, Saab, Jag etc etc
Having met with and spoken to Keith Payne VC was a great honour, what was both amazing and horrifying was that the Australian Department of Veterans Affairs refused to give him a pention for PTSD because as they reasoned "You are a VC winner, you cannot have PTSD because you're a hero" The Australian government refused him the support he deserved because of his extraordinary bravery.
I am afraid the Australian Defence force and in particular the Veterans affairs department is a real crock of shit when it comes to claims. The DVA is staffed mainly by public servants who would not know how to hold a bloody rifle let alone go to war and it seems to me that they have a quota to decline a certain number. Things are changing slowly but not fast enough. I was in three different confrontations but I always said that the lads coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan will present with a different and very serious set of issues because although we were away in one or other war zone for periods from one to two years these lads were being sent back up to 16 times, the deployments were shorter but the coming and going not knowing if they would get back would have played terribly on their minds. The pity of war!!!
Let’s not wait for ‘god’ to judge them - just in case you’re wrong about that, we’ll judge them NOW. It’s completely disgusting and hopefully wouldn’t happen today as PTSD, especially from significant trauma during war and civilian life is better recognised today. And just because you have PTSD from seeing your friends killed brutally beside you, and you then display a bravery and valour that’s virtually unprecedented, receiving YOUR VC - the HIGHEST medal for valour available to a soldier in the Commonwealth (and the world), doesn’t mean you can’t suffer from PTSD for the rest of your life from the incident. Audie Murphy, the most highly decorated soldier in American history (Medal of Honour, Distinguished Service Cross x 2, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart x 3, Legion of Honour, silver star x 2, bronze star, Croix de Guerre with star and 3 with Palm from France) certainly suffered from PTSD until his untimely death in a plane crash after he’d become an Actor - playing himself in his autobiography/film - ‘To Hell and Back’. He always said that the greatest day in the war was being on a train headed to the Riviera on recuperation leave and being told that the war in Europe was OVER. The radio interviewer expected him to say getting the Medal of Honour but that simply wasn’t it, he’d lost too many friends and suffered from PTSD so the news that the war was over was the most welcome news ever for him… There are more Medal of Honour recipients, 3125 to date, than VC recipients, 1358 to date. The US is a country of 300 million people, but the Commonwealth is made up of 2.5 billion people, so VC’s are FAR rarer and harder to achieve, taking nothing away from Medal of Honour recipients AT ALL. To not give a VC recipient the help he deserved because “you’re too brave to have PTSD” is AWFUL Australia and you need to sort yourself out.
Utter goosebumps when he said his daughter only found out he won the VC after he died. What a bloke he was! And the fact JC married his daughter was a little special too, the documentary was a great commemoration for the VC awardees who those majority of people don't know about.
It happens quite a bit,an old guy passed away in our village when I was about 13-14, a quiet private man,who told nearly his entire family that his trade as a senior shipping clerk took him through the war,his brother and some of his old service buddies presented his uniforms,medals and other relevant stuff to his children after the funeral and revealed his true story.This was the first anyone knew.word soon got round the village and everyone was gobsmacked to learn what this kind,unassuming man had achieved and overcome.some of the stories overheard by us children gave the impression of someone who in a hand to hand combat situation wouldn't think twice about biting a gerrys ears off!,it proves that you should never assume,how many of us have parents and grandparents that led a life back then only known to themselves? Many take it to their grave.
Jeremy, I know this doc is now quite old but it doesn’t change the fact that this is perhaps your finest work. Your closing statement left me stunned, and to us mere mortals the bravery shown by all recipients mentioned in this doc brought tears to my eyes
As an American, I wish more of my countrymen would get out of their world and see the rest of the world. I enjoyed this because I got to see WWII from the British perspective. Thank you.
Good on ya mate.😀that bloody awesome. Sadly I see so many nasty back and forth uneducated comments by people who've spent 5 seconds watch UA-cam videos on the subject. I've been reading books and watching documentaries for 32 years on modern war history. The more I learn the more I realise how little I really understand. There were so many brave men from so many countries. Sadly so much suffering by millions upon millions. It has really made me appreciate my beautiful peaceful home in australia.its also made me realise how very bad others have it.
My grandmother who was a nurse in france during WW1, married an american serviceman in 1918! He abandoned her with 4 children in 1923, they returned to Britain in 1926, having been granted a divorce she married my grandfather in 1933, had another 2 daughters! All 3 of her sons joined the British army, 1 joined the infantry, 2 joined the parachute regiment! 1 fought at Arnhem the other had been transferred to the SAS! All 3 survived the war!
That last bit that was said in the narration particularly struck a chord with me. Although he never served at Arnhem, nor did he win a VC, it reminded me of my late Grandfather. I didn't know that he served a supporting role in the D-day landings until after he died in 2016. He, in his own small way contributed to the freedom of those who were under occupation at the time. I knew he served in the navy from his navy issue tatoo, but I didn't know he contributed to one of the most significant moments of the war. It made me think, "what horrors did he see that he never thought to mention?"
same here man. had 2 of them that was in ww2 one a b-17 pilot over germany for the usaaf. The other a destroyer crewman in the pacific. Never met the one who was the pilot. The other i didn't know about his service until after he passed found out about it through an obituary while serving in the usaf at Dover afb with the 436 amxs around 2008. (my service time was 2006-2012). Never knew until it was too late.
Well they didn’t bother showing the LAST part. Major Cain was Jeremy’s wife’s Father !!!! That’s the whole point and this channel missed the ending 🤦🏼♂️
And to anyone who thinks this comment is offensive or inappropriate, either watch the full video or skip to 55:30 for Jeremy's last statement. Then watch Top Gear.
The first and only VC awarded to a member of the RAN (as at 25 Apr 2021) was recently awarded to Ordinary Seaman Edward "Teddy" Sheen VC who ignored the abandon ship order and remaining alone on his sinking ship firing the AA gun at the enemy aeroplanes over Darwin Harbour in 1942 to help save others. This brave very young Tasmanian went down with the ship.
@ZNAMDEMONA1 you seem to be forgetting the thousands of your fellow country men that gave their lives willingly for us yes we abandoned you but at that time in the war NO one could stand against the German's and by talking like that your dishonouring the memories of the 750 polish heroes that made the heroic last stand against 46,000 German's at Wizna
@ZNAMDEMONA1 I know a lot of your history you've always fought for your freedom from the early years after meisko 1 first United all the polan tribes in to one nation all the way through 1410 battle of grunwald, 1610 the glorious victory at kircholm, 1683 seige of Vienna and many other great victories usually against huge odds and lead by great leaders I love your country and its very interesting history
Fun Interesting fact: The most recent VC winner was Joshua Leakey for his part in a joint UK-US raid in Afghanistan in 2013. The offical citation of his VC: "Between May and December 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey was deployed in Afghanistan as a member of a Task Force conducting operations to disrupt insurgent safe-havens and protect the main operating base in Helmand province. The majority of operations took place in daylight in non-permissive areas, attracting significant risk. On the 22nd August 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey deployed on a combined UK / US assault led by the United States Marine Corps into a Taliban stronghold to disrupt a key insurgent group. After dismounting from their helicopters, the force came under accurate machine gun and rocket propelled grenades fire resulting in the Command Group being pinned down on the exposed forward slope of a hill. The team attempted to extract from the killing zone for an hour, their efforts resulting in a Marine Corps Captain being shot and wounded and their communications being put out of action. Lance Corporal Leakey, positioned on the lee of the hill, realising the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed across a large area of barren hillside which was now being raked with machine gun fire. As he crested the hill, the full severity of the situation became apparent: approximately twenty enemy had surrounded two friendly machine gun teams and a mortar section rendering their critical fire support ineffective. Undeterred by the very clear and present danger, Lance Corporal Leakey moved down the forward slope of the hill, and gave first aid to the wounded officer. Despite being the most junior commander in the area, Lance Corporal Leakey took control of the situation and initiated the casualty evacuation. Realising that the initiative was still in the hands of the enemy, he set off back up the hill, still under enemy fire, to get one of the suppressed machine guns into action. On reaching it, and with rounds impacting on the frame of the gun itself, he moved it to another position and began engaging the enemy. This courageous action spurred those around him back into the fight; nonetheless, the weight of enemy fire continued. For the third time and with full knowledge of the extant dangers, Lance Corporal Leakey exposed himself to enemy fire once more. Weighed down by over 60 lbs of equipment, he ran to the bottom of the hill, picked up the second machine gun and climbed back up the hill again: a round trip of more than 200 metres on steep terrain. Drawing the majority of the enemy fire, with rounds splashing around him, Lance Corporal Leakey overcame his fatigue to re-site the gun and return fire. This proved to be the turning point. Inspired by Lance Corporal Leakey's actions, and with a heavy weight of fire now at their disposal, the force began to fight back with renewed ferocity. Having regained the initiative, Lance Corporal Leakey handed over the machine gun and led the extraction of the wounded officer to a point from which he could be safely evacuated. During the assault 11 insurgents were killed and 4 wounded, but the weight of enemy fire had effectively pinned down the command team. Displaying gritty leadership well above that expected of his rank, Lance Corporal Leakey's actions single-handedly regained the initiative and prevented considerable loss of life, allowing a wounded US Marine officer to be evacuated." He's not even the first member of his family to be awarded the VC. His second cousin twice removed, Nigel Leakey, was posthumously awarded it during WWII.
@@winkerr2338 The episode covering the invention of the computer is definitely here on UA-cam, I watched it myself not long ago. Not sure about the other episodes though, I think the gun episode may also be on here.
VC awarded individuals as well as Congressional Meddle of Honor awarded individuals, are not just men of recognition but individuals who ARE super heroes of the real world. War is disgusting but seems to be here for the foreseeable future. Whatever side you back or believe in, there are those who, in the moment, go way above and beyond, that which we mortal men can’t even imagine the bravery it take nor the state of mind one must be in. Just absolutely amazing. I my eyes. This man Caine, was a man ABOVE us ordinary men. His humbleness of what he did makes him more than a superhero than any comic book superhero ever. The world needs more people like this incredible modest individual.
-Fun- Interesting fact: The most recent VC winner was Joshua Leakey for his part in a joint UK-US raid in Afghanistan in 2013. The offical citation of his VC: "Between May and December 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey was deployed in Afghanistan as a member of a Task Force conducting operations to disrupt insurgent safe-havens and protect the main operating base in Helmand province. The majority of operations took place in daylight in non-permissive areas, attracting significant risk. On the 22nd August 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey deployed on a combined UK / US assault led by the United States Marine Corps into a Taliban stronghold to disrupt a key insurgent group. After dismounting from their helicopters, the force came under accurate machine gun and rocket propelled grenades fire resulting in the Command Group being pinned down on the exposed forward slope of a hill. The team attempted to extract from the killing zone for an hour, their efforts resulting in a Marine Corps Captain being shot and wounded and their communications being put out of action. Lance Corporal Leakey, positioned on the lee of the hill, realising the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed across a large area of barren hillside which was now being raked with machine gun fire. As he crested the hill, the full severity of the situation became apparent: approximately twenty enemy had surrounded two friendly machine gun teams and a mortar section rendering their critical fire support ineffective. Undeterred by the very clear and present danger, Lance Corporal Leakey moved down the forward slope of the hill, and gave first aid to the wounded officer. Despite being the most junior commander in the area, Lance Corporal Leakey took control of the situation and initiated the casualty evacuation. Realising that the initiative was still in the hands of the enemy, he set off back up the hill, still under enemy fire, to get one of the suppressed machine guns into action. On reaching it, and with rounds impacting on the frame of the gun itself, he moved it to another position and began engaging the enemy. This courageous action spurred those around him back into the fight; nonetheless, the weight of enemy fire continued. For the third time and with full knowledge of the extant dangers, Lance Corporal Leakey exposed himself to enemy fire once more. Weighed down by over 60 lbs of equipment, he ran to the bottom of the hill, picked up the second machine gun and climbed back up the hill again: a round trip of more than 200 metres on steep terrain. Drawing the majority of the enemy fire, with rounds splashing around him, Lance Corporal Leakey overcame his fatigue to re-site the gun and return fire. This proved to be the turning point. Inspired by Lance Corporal Leakey's actions, and with a heavy weight of fire now at their disposal, the force began to fight back with renewed ferocity. Having regained the initiative, Lance Corporal Leakey handed over the machine gun and led the extraction of the wounded officer to a point from which he could be safely evacuated. During the assault 11 insurgents were killed and 4 wounded, but the weight of enemy fire had effectively pinned down the command team. Displaying gritty leadership well above that expected of his rank, Lance Corporal Leakey's actions single-handedly regained the initiative and prevented considerable loss of life, allowing a wounded US Marine officer to be evacuated." He's not even the first member of his family to be awarded the VC. His second cousin twice removed, Nigel Leakey, was posthumously awarded it during WWII.
There are heroic people alive today. In every generation, there are people who when called upon, will do extraordinary, selfless, honorable things and you will never know their names. It's in their bones.
Yes, hero’s walk silently among us everyday. They don’t talk loudly, or show off. Hero’s that inspire me more than anything else in the world, are humble, kind to animals, gentle and meek at home as well as dealings and interactions in public.
Victoria Cross ... Medal of Honor ... Not one as been awarded to a man that thought he deserved it. And that is in itself bespeaks of a man that is indeed a hero.
The use of the word 'awesome' is actually accurate in this context. Truly humbled by this individual description which is so emblematic of persistent and thoughtful courage throughout the ages. Brilliantly told by Clarkson. Definitely his forte.
I've just watched this and am in tears, I can't write anymore at the moment as I'm in awe of all the selflessness of those men. Clarkson you have done them proud.
A fantastic documentary, I couldn't stop watching it! He never even told his daughter he had won the VC! Amazing! My father in law survived 30 missions as a tail gunner and navigator in a Lancaster but never spoke of it!
Lt George Burdon McKean was awarded a VC in 1918. He was born in the small town where I live. A memorial sculpture was unveiled a couple of years ago. Brave men, all of them.
I watched this in February 2021 and I have several comments to make. Firstly I’m an ex Australian soldier. I’m a Top Gear / The Grand Tour fan. I’m a lover of history, especially military history so this documentary is right up my alley. First off, I disapprove of the term “win” when it comes to the VC. A soldier is “awarded” the medal, they don’t “win” it. It’s not a competition, but I can let that one go through to the keeper! Secondly, I’ve often wondered why Jeremey has such an affiliation to the military. I now know. To live in the shadow of such men must be a truly humbling experience. Well done Jeremey Clarkson!👍. And to the 300 that gave thumbs down to this documentary, may the Hounds of Hell urinate on you from a great height!🖕🖕🖕
Americans seem to go to great lengths to honour and respect their vets. Even the simple 'Thank you for your service' to a stranger. I wish we did more of that on this side of the Atlantic.
We were raised to not mention or ask about the wars at all to veterans in Australia unless its ANZAC day and even then its not really o.k. Its an old custom from WW1 that hasn't changed much.
@@stkfc7440 yeah i would agree with that , i also found speaking to my father and uncle they found it hard to speak about when asked so nobody forces it
As an American Veteran I will say that that respect is a kind of shield from the rest. People say it but are ghastly afraid of any interaction past that. It is a kind of cover for a blind spot. Hearing Vets of Vietnam talk vs Gulf or Korea or Iraq/Afghanistan... It is hiding a much darker truth and excusing the citizen of further guilt. Everything after that phrase is met with the greatest discomfort and horror. Because as far as the government is concerned, you are on your own and must fight for your life alone after that. And the people who work and volunteer at the VA are beyond overworked. One of the wisest and most helpful things I learned from those who served before me: "The VA is designed to kill people"
Jeremy, ffs keep doing this kind of documentary, it's a masterclass series and you're a natural for it. (What an absolute gem the lady Ms. Didy Grahame is).
Jeremy talked about John Cruickshank the Catalina pilot who won the VC so I looked it up and much to my amazement he's still alive and in 7 days time he celebrates his 100th birthday wow,I seriously hope he's not alone and there are despite the coronavirus,family and people close by to him
Magnificent story of Maj. Cain's heroism. By all accounts a truly extraordinary man during an extraordinary time. Thanks so much for posting this program. A tiny glimpse into one real facet of the event called "A Bridge Too Far".
I could imagine anyone else but Jeremy Clarkson doing these Documentaries. His ability to be serious yet put a little humor into it is absolutely wonderful. I love hearing these stories. Three uncles of mine where Marines in WWII and all over the Islands fighting the Japanese. Our soldiers during these times were the True Super Hero's.
What an amazing story, wow. I had NO IDEA of what it took to win a VC. The Story of Major Cain was an example of bravery I could have never imagined one soldier could achieve. The fact that he never even told his own daughter that he won the VC was the most surprising ending to this story. Thank you!
A masterclass of a documentary. Great storytelling and presenting from Clarkson - even though I’m a massive Top Gear fan this is certainly his finest work/journalism. What a story. It makes me put all the problems in my life into perspective. if I was in Robert Cains shoes I would’ve got out of there as soon as possible; the bravery he demonstrated was simply unbelievable. A mindset that completely disregarded surrender, retreat or self-preservation and just focused on getting the job done no matter what it took. This documentary has made me re-define the term ‘hero’. The VC winners, and indeed all the soldiers who fought, were TRUE heroes and should never be forgotten for the sacrifices they made for us. Thank you lads
He also did one of PQ17. On PBS ua-cam.com/video/dnVZpVUevdI/v-deo.html thepiratebay.asia/torrent/9443036/BBC_PQ17_An_Arctic_Convoy_Disaster_720p_x264_AAC_HDTV
You do realize documentaries are what he does, right? His profession, as stated by him, is a documentary journalist. Did you think he was a chief, or an olympic swimmer? 😂
My father was a bomber pilot during the war. Later on, he volunteered to fly gliders and was subsequently trained on the Horsa. As things turned out, the airborne operations came to an end before he actually went into action flying his Horsa. Luckily for me!
i had 2 grandfathers in ww2 1 and his brother that flew B-17s over germany the brother was shot down and killed. The other was a destroyer crewman. Myself an Aircraft tech for the Usaf. They simply dont make men like they used to.
I have a relative who was awarded the VC at Rorke's drift, and if family history is to be believed then he falls under Clarkson's category of rouges and scoundrels.
I love that Jeremy, who jokes around and pokes fun at a lot of things, is presenting this. No jokes, no kidding around, it really shows the administration he has for these great men.
Goosebumps twist in the last few seconds, that you couldn't get unless you watch the whole thing. Well done the researchers, and a top class presentation by Jeremy.
A remarkable documentary about a remarkable man who like many was so humble and understandably was unable to talk about the horrific events they went through
Those three Canadians (Leo Clarke, Robert Shankland, and Frederick Hall) from the same street were from my hometown of Winnipeg on a street originally called Pine Street. In their honour, the street was renamed to Valour Road in 1925.
I am from the South East Coast England, I remember my dad telling me about the Canadians camped around hear during ww2 I cannot remember the battle that they were in, I think it was Norway,, they ended up having very bad casualties,, dad said everyone of them lads deserved a VC,,
A friend of mine was one of the paras who was taken prisoner at Arnhem. He promptly escaped and was recaptured and sent to a stalag where he escaped once more and made it back to allied lines.
I like how the VC isn’t awarded for like “well done, you killed loads of the enemy!” It’s awarded for you acting in a way that’ll will most likely lead to your death, but will benefit the squad/platoon/company as a whole. That’s true bravery, not just “I ran into enemy lines and killed loads of them” in the sake of seeking glory.
That's the thing. A lot of those men acted in the way they saw fit. Friends and comrades were being killed. How do I stop that? Later when they realised what it was they'd done a lot of reaction was along the lines of "Bloody hell, I ran up to those machine gun nests? I must have been mad"
I'm sure you didn't mean to phrase the end as you did, that running into fire is for the sake of seeking glory, perhaps for self serving purposes. But your primary point is well taken. Personally, I'm not sure how to distinguish the two. Why else would one run into fire but for the sake of others?
@@darkwarrior6465 @jimsy Clarkson's documentary of Arctic Convoy PQ 17 is superb. Would love to put the disparaging snowflakes in these comments on a ship following the route of the Arctic Convoys. Even without the threat of constant death, they'd probably be screaming for their mothers within 2 days.
The Making of The Greatest Raid is equally excellent. You could tell everyone involved in making the models, being a part of it, was doing it because and not just for the money.
Thank you Jeremy for letting know this amazing story which shows the courage and highest qualities of the human beings who were part of these extraordinary exploits. Thank you again. Juan Carlos from Argentina
This is what storytelling, history and honor are all about - unearthing the facts and details, drama and emotion are somewhat secondary - the human beings and their context are the subject matter - bravo, Mr Clarkson! This is priceless
27:31 is such an inspiring quote from Clarkson. The VC has proven that not anyone can be extraordinary but instead that an extraordinary person can come from anywhere.
VC maybe one of the most unique gallantry medals, when talking about their recipients. Fazal Din was a Naik in the British Indian Army, born in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, British Indian Empire. In the Burma Campaign he was ran through the chest by a Japanese Samurai Officer, with the sword appearing through to his back. Fazal Din proceeded to pull the sword out of his chest and killed the officer with it.
Such bravery reduces me to tears. Comment. This video is larded with a disgraceful number of ads. That's pure greed. It is also marred by several losses of sound.
Dutch resistance had warned the Allies a week before the start of the market garden operation about the 2 veteran SS divisions, who were sent to Arnhem to recuperate from their defeat at Falaise. It was ignored as false info, since these two armored divisions were thought to have been fully annihilated. Yet 7000 SS troops survived and were stationed uncomfortably close to the drop zone of the Allies. Luckily they did not have many tanks left, or the disaster would have been complete. I live close to the area where the battle for Arnhem took place, and make it a point to visit the local museum every year and remember the sacrifice the airborne heroes made for our freedom.
This carries an even more important message about soldiers in general - they're just human. They don't want praise, or to be constantly reminded of what they did. Treat them well, give them support, and may they live the best damn lives they can, cause they've fucking earned it.
@@doug6500 Operation Pegasus October 1944 "In fact, on the south bank, Dobie, the engineers, and a patrol of E Company, 506 PIR observed the signal and immediately launched their boats, but the British were some 500-800m upriver of the crossing point." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Pegasus#Pegasus_I
Wonderful documentary, thank you. An uncle of mine, Prem Bhagat, won the VC in north Africa, and was a modest person. My father was severely wounded in Singapore in WW2. I visited the allied graveyard near Arnheim, it was pitiful to see youngsters, aged 18 and 19 buried there. I wonder if all this bravery was wasted, given the present generation of mendacious and cowardly politicians.
My grandparents lived in Arnhem and they always told us about hiding in their basement whilst Germans and British soldiers were shooting at each other through the house. I am so proud of my grandparents and family. My grandparents hid jews in the attic and transported British airmen using an ambulance. My great uncle was executed in 1944 for killing dozens of Germans and disabling flack numerous times in order to pave the way for allied bombers. My other grandfather had a scar between his eyes caused by a German bayonet belonging to a soldier who did not live to tell the story.
"He never thought to mention it". sums up that great generation of men.
@Why Not Just a flesh wound.
I agree well said
It’s the British thing to do. Boasting is an American thing. Being humble is the British thing to do.
@@sonampaldensherpa Spiteful little remark not at all British.
I guess it was the nature ,and times of the man.and he shaved after to look like an officer, where he got the razor from God knows
Obviously Jeremy is hilarious with James and Richard but I love it when he does these serious documentaries
After all he is an intellectual
A friend Why not?
I honestly don’t see the problem..
Perhaps YOU are the problem!?
An act, or acts of bravery has absolutely nothing to do with one’s religious beliefs, or lack thereof!
He needs to do more of this stuff and less of the others. He needs to move on....
Is there anything Jeremy can't do...another fantastic documentary!
Yeah, no. Most of these facts are completely inaccurate.
"He never thought to mention it"
That was outstandingly presented. Standing applause Jeremy.
AMEN! Greatest!
I lived in Arnhem all my life, currently in Oosterbeek where this story took place.
Im from 1991, I walked the Airbourne event in september 25 times now (got 5 medals) and my grandma worked at the Airbourne museum for 50+ years as volunteer and been royally crowned for it.
In this town, stories like theres will NEVER be forgotten, Americans, British, Canadian and Polish (and other) veterans will always be remembered and welcomed with us. (Yes, also from the German side) to remember together.
I walk daily with my dogs near a deep ditch in the forest called the pit of hell, its where a handfull of allied soldiers that were ambushed, have taken cover, and fought off german fire for over 36 hours, and won.
There are so many untold warstories all over the world, heroes who will never be heard.
Lest we forget.
Amazing thanks for sharing
8
grew up with these men as my family, teachers. bosses, buddies, and Good Friends.
RIP GREATEST! "I Love You" miss you! Sorry We let this world you sacrificed and paid for go so Dark for so cheap, not a fight, nothing.
@@davefellhoelter1343 Yes sadly very true..
My great grandfather was a veteran of WW2 and I asked him about how he felt about German veterans.
"At the time I said (kill them), but now I'd say Im still sore about them but I still say @#*k the government" translated from 1940s angry old Italian man.
Jeremy has such a good voice for things like this, and he's always been a huge history buff. He's often accused of being an idiot or insensitive but he has a huge amount of respect for people like this and as far as I've seen in his private life he's a pretty good person.
@ThePatUltra where did you get the information he was a pole? as far as i can see the guy he punched was irish (Oisin Tymon)
@ThePatUltra You still haven't corrected it.
@ThePatUltra They dont care about that though, the wokeys will happily ignore all facts just to chastise someone that doesnt agree with their lunacy.
@@spencerbissett3417 Don’t forget calling for a woman to be pelted in shit walking through the streets naked for the apparent crime of being black and American
@@Hunterleahy20 Mexicans ought to grow a better sense of humour. The other way round and British people just laugh at it. Not insecure, self deprecating, with nothing to prove. So many people don't need to be so easily offended at some jocular ribbing.
Btw it was actually Hammond and May that joked about the Mexicans on that occasion. Clarkson hardly said anything, lol.
Jeremy talked about John Cruickshank the Catalina pilot who won the VC so I looked it up and much to my amazement he's still alive and in 7 days time he celebrates his 100th birthday wow,I seriously hope he's not alone and there are despite the coronavirus,family and people close by to him
yes, the last VC winner of WW2 I believe.
Shall we buy him a birthday drink ? How do we do it ?
where is this man?
bbc emailed!
@@MyScubasteve Excellent work. Lets get this rolling.
who'd have thought that Jeremy Clarkson's father in law would be a bearer of the Victoria Cross; and he never even thought to mention it, that is what you call humble.
Because we all know what a humble man Jezza is?
Ex-father in law at this point.
@MrBadabimBadabum The way it was phrased, was directed at Jezza, not the father in law. Did you ever " learnt" how to spell in your own native language?
@MrBadabimBadabum "Do you even learnt how to read" 😂😂😂😂😂
Nikko Jim,
JC probably didn't even know what a Victoria Cross was.
There have been 4 VCs awarded to British soldiers since this documentary was filmed.
Pvt Johnson Beharry VC. Princess of Wales Royal Regiment, Iraq 2004. (Awarded in 2005)
Cpl Bryan Budd VC. Parachute Regiment, Afghanistan 2006. (Awarded posthumously)
L/Cpl James Ashworth VC. Grenadier Guards, Afghanistan 2012. (Awarded posthumously)
L/Cpl Joshua Leakey VC. Parachute Regiment, Afghanistan 2013. (Awarded in 2015)
In addition, there have been 5 Commonwealth recipients,
Willie Apiata VC, New Zealand Special Air Service, Afghanistan 2007
Mark Donaldson VC, Australian Special Air Service Regiment, Afghanistan 2009
Ben Roberts-Smith VC, Australian Special Air Service Regiment, Afghanistan 2011
Daniel Keighran VC, 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Afghanistan 2012
Cameron Baird VC, Australian 2nd Commando Regiment, Afghanistan 2013 (Awarded posthumously)
Lets hope no more Victoria Crosses are ever awarded again
@@kwerk2011 thankyou for this they should be known to us all
those that put their lives on the line so we can live our lives in freedom
@@adrianbalboa5353 why?
@@kennethkennethson4289 To be awarded a medal of war means young men and women on both sides would have died.
I watch this probably once a month and still get goosebumps every time Jeremy mentions the street in Canada with 3 Victoria Cross winners. The street in Winnipeg used to be called Pine Street but was renamed to Valour Road in honor of the 3 men who all won their VC's during WW1, 2 of them posthumously.
The Canadians are well renowned the world over for their prowess. Love ‘em
@@murray7584 Canadians tend to be cool.
You don't win medals. They are awarded. The recipient earned them
@asicdathens usually when you win anything, other than a lottery, it is because you earned it. Olympic gold medal for example, you may be awarded it, but you sure as hell still have to win it.
A marketgarden veteran once told me : "it was not a bridge to far, it was to far from the fucking bridge "
what did he mean?
@@TheDaverobinson that they were too far from the bridge.
@@TheDaverobinson the landing zones were too far from the bridge, subsequent reinforcements were dropped closer but by then, the Germans were alerts and prepared for them (witness the massacre of the Polish airborne division dropped in support, right into the Germans). There is also the issue of the intel on the SS Panzer division being ignored because the mission was planned out and advanced by the time they were spotted by reconnaissance. Essentially, the brass decided to go anyway, believing the 2nd army would get there, despite the obvious issues.
Too and too. Not to
The bridge you see in the footage is most of the time what is now the Nelson Mandela bridge. The John Frost bridge is (seen from Oosterbeek) even beyond that one. It is 6-7 km from Oosterbeek, so indeed the bridge was even further away.
Jeremy Clarkson is honestly a story teller masterclass. Such simple actions/movements and shots give these historical scenes such depth and meaning.
👍
I completely agree, I do hope to see him again on television, perhaps presenting on historical documentaries, particularly on conflict - you can see his flair and interest in history... it was the same on top gear when he would tell the story of various manufacturers, Saab, Jag etc etc
Having met with and spoken to Keith Payne VC was a great honour, what was both amazing and horrifying was that the Australian Department of Veterans Affairs refused to give him a pention for PTSD because as they reasoned "You are a VC winner, you cannot have PTSD because you're a hero"
The Australian government refused him the support he deserved because of his extraordinary bravery.
That's discusting!
Horrible. God will judge them.
I am afraid the Australian Defence force and in particular the Veterans affairs department is a real crock of shit when it comes to claims. The DVA is staffed mainly by public servants who would not know how to hold a bloody rifle let alone go to war and it seems to me that they have a quota to decline a certain number. Things are changing slowly but not fast enough. I was in three different confrontations but I always said that the lads coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan will present with a different and very serious set of issues because although we were away in one or other war zone for periods from one to two years these lads were being sent back up to 16 times, the deployments were shorter but the coming and going not knowing if they would get back would have played terribly on their minds. The pity of war!!!
Should've at least got ten year's worth of VB. Struth.
Let’s not wait for ‘god’ to judge them - just in case you’re wrong about that, we’ll judge them NOW. It’s completely disgusting and hopefully wouldn’t happen today as PTSD, especially from significant trauma during war and civilian life is better recognised today. And just because you have PTSD from seeing your friends killed brutally beside you, and you then display a bravery and valour that’s virtually unprecedented, receiving YOUR VC - the HIGHEST medal for valour available to a soldier in the Commonwealth (and the world), doesn’t mean you can’t suffer from PTSD for the rest of your life from the incident. Audie Murphy, the most highly decorated soldier in American history (Medal of Honour, Distinguished Service Cross x 2, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart x 3, Legion of Honour, silver star x 2, bronze star, Croix de Guerre with star and 3 with Palm from France) certainly suffered from PTSD until his untimely death in a plane crash after he’d become an Actor - playing himself in his autobiography/film - ‘To Hell and Back’. He always said that the greatest day in the war was being on a train headed to the Riviera on recuperation leave and being told that the war in Europe was OVER. The radio interviewer expected him to say getting the Medal of Honour but that simply wasn’t it, he’d lost too many friends and suffered from PTSD so the news that the war was over was the most welcome news ever for him… There are more Medal of Honour recipients, 3125 to date, than VC recipients, 1358 to date. The US is a country of 300 million people, but the Commonwealth is made up of 2.5 billion people, so VC’s are FAR rarer and harder to achieve, taking nothing away from Medal of Honour recipients AT ALL. To not give a VC recipient the help he deserved because “you’re too brave to have PTSD” is AWFUL Australia and you need to sort yourself out.
Utter goosebumps when he said his daughter only found out he won the VC after he died. What a bloke he was! And the fact JC married his daughter was a little special too, the documentary was a great commemoration for the VC awardees who those majority of people don't know about.
It happens quite a bit,an old guy passed away in our village when I was about 13-14, a quiet private man,who told nearly his entire family that his trade as a senior shipping clerk took him through the war,his brother and some of his old service buddies presented his uniforms,medals and other relevant stuff to his children after the funeral and revealed his true story.This was the first anyone knew.word soon got round the village and everyone was gobsmacked to learn what this kind,unassuming man had achieved and overcome.some of the stories overheard by us children gave the impression of someone who in a hand to hand combat situation wouldn't think twice about biting a gerrys ears off!,it proves that you should never assume,how many of us have parents and grandparents that led a life back then only known to themselves? Many take it to their grave.
Jeremy Clarkson is a FANTASTIC documentary presenter.
Jeremy, I know this doc is now quite old but it doesn’t change the fact that this is perhaps your finest work. Your closing statement left me stunned, and to us mere mortals the bravery shown by all recipients mentioned in this doc brought tears to my eyes
As an American, I wish more of my countrymen would get out of their world and see the rest of the world. I enjoyed this because I got to see WWII from the British perspective. Thank you.
Good on ya mate.😀that bloody awesome. Sadly I see so many nasty back and forth uneducated comments by people who've spent 5 seconds watch UA-cam videos on the subject. I've been reading books and watching documentaries for 32 years on modern war history. The more I learn the more I realise how little I really understand. There were so many brave men from so many countries. Sadly so much suffering by millions upon millions. It has really made me appreciate my beautiful peaceful home in australia.its also made me realise how very bad others have it.
Hope you have a great Christmas mate. Really hope you and your family are doing ok with this terrible virus going around the world.
wow I didn't even now you could see WW2 without a british perspective. What? The british were one of the most important in the war!
in which case, never watch U-571, it's the most atrocious Hollywood rewriting of history lol
My grandmother who was a nurse in france during WW1, married an american serviceman in 1918!
He abandoned her with 4 children in 1923, they returned to Britain in 1926, having been granted a divorce she married my grandfather in 1933, had another 2 daughters!
All 3 of her sons joined the British army, 1 joined the infantry, 2 joined the parachute regiment!
1 fought at Arnhem the other had been transferred to the SAS!
All 3 survived the war!
That last bit that was said in the narration particularly struck a chord with me. Although he never served at Arnhem, nor did he win a VC, it reminded me of my late Grandfather. I didn't know that he served a supporting role in the D-day landings until after he died in 2016. He, in his own small way contributed to the freedom of those who were under occupation at the time. I knew he served in the navy from his navy issue tatoo, but I didn't know he contributed to one of the most significant moments of the war. It made me think, "what horrors did he see that he never thought to mention?"
same here man. had 2 of them that was in ww2 one a b-17 pilot over germany for the usaaf. The other a destroyer crewman in the pacific. Never met the one who was the pilot. The other i didn't know about his service until after he passed found out about it through an obituary while serving in the usaf at Dover afb with the 436 amxs around 2008. (my service time was 2006-2012). Never knew until it was too late.
Well they didn’t bother showing the LAST part. Major Cain was Jeremy’s wife’s Father !!!! That’s the whole point and this channel missed the ending 🤦🏼♂️
Its ALWAYS worth reminding ourselves of just how incredibly rare a V.C is, and how incredibly brave the V.C recipients are.
"On that bombshell, it's time to end," seems appropriate with that ending.
And to anyone who thinks this comment is offensive or inappropriate, either watch the full video or skip to 55:30 for Jeremy's last statement. Then watch Top Gear.
The first and only VC awarded to a member of the RAN (as at 25 Apr 2021) was recently awarded to Ordinary Seaman Edward "Teddy" Sheen VC who ignored the abandon ship order and remaining alone on his sinking ship firing the AA gun at the enemy aeroplanes over Darwin Harbour in 1942 to help save others. This brave very young Tasmanian went down with the ship.
I remember this. I watched the event they held for him.
"Hero" is the most abused word today. This word is most deserving to those who truly do things worthy of this word.
Well said. Totally agree with you.
@ZNAMDEMONA1 you seem to be forgetting the thousands of your fellow country men that gave their lives willingly for us yes we abandoned you but at that time in the war NO one could stand against the German's and by talking like that your dishonouring the memories of the 750 polish heroes that made the heroic last stand against 46,000 German's at Wizna
@ZNAMDEMONA1 Get back to your Minecraft little boy, What did you do to save your Polish women and children?
@ZNAMDEMONA1 I know a lot of your history you've always fought for your freedom from the early years after meisko 1 first United all the polan tribes in to one nation all the way through 1410 battle of grunwald, 1610 the glorious victory at kircholm, 1683 seige of Vienna and many other great victories usually against huge odds and lead by great leaders I love your country and its very interesting history
A proud noble nation
Simply one of the finest documentaries ever made. Enough said.
Fun Interesting fact: The most recent VC winner was Joshua Leakey for his part in a joint UK-US raid in Afghanistan in 2013.
The offical citation of his VC:
"Between May and December 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey was deployed in Afghanistan as a member of a Task Force conducting operations to disrupt insurgent safe-havens and protect the main operating base in Helmand province. The majority of operations took place in daylight in non-permissive areas, attracting significant risk. On the 22nd August 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey deployed on a combined UK / US assault led by the United States Marine Corps into a Taliban stronghold to disrupt a key insurgent group.
After dismounting from their helicopters, the force came under accurate machine gun and rocket propelled grenades fire resulting in the Command Group being pinned down on the exposed forward slope of a hill. The team attempted to extract from the killing zone for an hour, their efforts resulting in a Marine Corps Captain being shot and wounded and their communications being put out of action. Lance Corporal Leakey, positioned on the lee of the hill, realising the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed across a large area of barren hillside which was now being raked with machine gun fire. As he crested the hill, the full severity of the situation became apparent: approximately twenty enemy had surrounded two friendly machine gun teams and a mortar section rendering their critical fire support ineffective.
Undeterred by the very clear and present danger, Lance Corporal Leakey moved down the forward slope of the hill, and gave first aid to the wounded officer. Despite being the most junior commander in the area, Lance Corporal Leakey took control of the situation and initiated the casualty evacuation. Realising that the initiative was still in the hands of the enemy, he set off back up the hill, still under enemy fire, to get one of the suppressed machine guns into action. On reaching it, and with rounds impacting on the frame of the gun itself, he moved it to another position and began engaging the enemy.
This courageous action spurred those around him back into the fight; nonetheless, the weight of enemy fire continued. For the third time and with full knowledge of the extant dangers, Lance Corporal Leakey exposed himself to enemy fire once more. Weighed down by over 60 lbs of equipment, he ran to the bottom of the hill, picked up the second machine gun and climbed back up the hill again: a round trip of more than 200 metres on steep terrain. Drawing the majority of the enemy fire, with rounds splashing around him, Lance Corporal Leakey overcame his fatigue to re-site the gun and return fire. This proved to be the turning point. Inspired by Lance Corporal Leakey's actions, and with a heavy weight of fire now at their disposal, the force began to fight back with renewed ferocity.
Having regained the initiative, Lance Corporal Leakey handed over the machine gun and led the extraction of the wounded officer to a point from which he could be safely evacuated. During the assault 11 insurgents were killed and 4 wounded, but the weight of enemy fire had effectively pinned down the command team. Displaying gritty leadership well above that expected of his rank, Lance Corporal Leakey's actions single-handedly regained the initiative and prevented considerable loss of life, allowing a wounded US Marine officer to be evacuated."
He's not even the first member of his family to be awarded the VC. His second cousin twice removed, Nigel Leakey, was posthumously awarded it during WWII.
@@jrbdoebd8553 well thank God this VC was not awarded posthumously..
I remember seeing this years ago on TV, one of the best thing to have never been repeated, thanks for uploading it
Yes, this and all of Clarkson's "real" documentaries are outstanding.
@@winkerr2338 "Inventions That Changed The World" is a brilliant series
@@Robert_B_445 I enjoyed that too. I'll have to find that to watch it again... see if it has stood the test of time.
@@winkerr2338 The episode covering the invention of the computer is definitely here on UA-cam, I watched it myself not long ago. Not sure about the other episodes though, I think the gun episode may also be on here.
I'm sure there was one about a 2nd world war convoy that I would love to re watch but cant find anywhere
Jermey needs to do more of these history programs. So say we all!
VC awarded individuals as well as Congressional Meddle of Honor awarded individuals, are not just men of recognition but individuals who ARE super heroes of the real world. War is disgusting but seems to be here for the foreseeable future. Whatever side you back or believe in, there are those who, in the moment, go way above and beyond, that which we mortal men can’t even imagine the bravery it take nor the state of mind one must be in. Just absolutely amazing. I my eyes. This man Caine, was a man ABOVE us ordinary men. His humbleness of what he did makes him more than a superhero than any comic book superhero ever. The world needs more people like this incredible modest individual.
This is 17yrs old? What a great documentary.
I thougt it was from now. The quality of the video is extremly good if it 17 years old
@@TT-wh6mu Made in '03
@@billenright2788 ok
@@TT-wh6mu look at Jeremy's mullet lol that tells you how old it is lol he's grey now with a lot less hair !
-Fun- Interesting fact: The most recent VC winner was Joshua Leakey for his part in a joint UK-US raid in Afghanistan in 2013.
The offical citation of his VC:
"Between May and December 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey was deployed in Afghanistan as a member of a Task Force conducting operations to disrupt insurgent safe-havens and protect the main operating base in Helmand province. The majority of operations took place in daylight in non-permissive areas, attracting significant risk. On the 22nd August 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey deployed on a combined UK / US assault led by the United States Marine Corps into a Taliban stronghold to disrupt a key insurgent group.
After dismounting from their helicopters, the force came under accurate machine gun and rocket propelled grenades fire resulting in the Command Group being pinned down on the exposed forward slope of a hill. The team attempted to extract from the killing zone for an hour, their efforts resulting in a Marine Corps Captain being shot and wounded and their communications being put out of action. Lance Corporal Leakey, positioned on the lee of the hill, realising the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed across a large area of barren hillside which was now being raked with machine gun fire. As he crested the hill, the full severity of the situation became apparent: approximately twenty enemy had surrounded two friendly machine gun teams and a mortar section rendering their critical fire support ineffective.
Undeterred by the very clear and present danger, Lance Corporal Leakey moved down the forward slope of the hill, and gave first aid to the wounded officer. Despite being the most junior commander in the area, Lance Corporal Leakey took control of the situation and initiated the casualty evacuation. Realising that the initiative was still in the hands of the enemy, he set off back up the hill, still under enemy fire, to get one of the suppressed machine guns into action. On reaching it, and with rounds impacting on the frame of the gun itself, he moved it to another position and began engaging the enemy.
This courageous action spurred those around him back into the fight; nonetheless, the weight of enemy fire continued. For the third time and with full knowledge of the extant dangers, Lance Corporal Leakey exposed himself to enemy fire once more. Weighed down by over 60 lbs of equipment, he ran to the bottom of the hill, picked up the second machine gun and climbed back up the hill again: a round trip of more than 200 metres on steep terrain. Drawing the majority of the enemy fire, with rounds splashing around him, Lance Corporal Leakey overcame his fatigue to re-site the gun and return fire. This proved to be the turning point. Inspired by Lance Corporal Leakey's actions, and with a heavy weight of fire now at their disposal, the force began to fight back with renewed ferocity.
Having regained the initiative, Lance Corporal Leakey handed over the machine gun and led the extraction of the wounded officer to a point from which he could be safely evacuated. During the assault 11 insurgents were killed and 4 wounded, but the weight of enemy fire had effectively pinned down the command team. Displaying gritty leadership well above that expected of his rank, Lance Corporal Leakey's actions single-handedly regained the initiative and prevented considerable loss of life, allowing a wounded US Marine officer to be evacuated."
He's not even the first member of his family to be awarded the VC. His second cousin twice removed, Nigel Leakey, was posthumously awarded it during WWII.
RodriguezRacer 456 I wouldn’t exactly call it “fun.”
But I’m sure you didn’t mean anything negative by it.
Cheers
A Viking Veteran.
@@BoHolbo Yeah it isn't "fun"
Maybe "interesting" would've been a better word.
RodriguezRacer 456 gvcXbffgxZVJNBUUHHHBBHHJHGJJJJJHHHBGYFGIIJHBDDADXC NLKKIJHBVBJGVFHKKKPOJGWXDSSDSFXVGXFB. XFNCVDFGGFFDR.JNVFBBBBHGGGGGGGVDDDEEWDVM
KTFrederedc. Zzzaasnjnnaaaaawwwwwwwgggh(hdvdtsdhyr
Michael Cirstean You’re a right genius aren’t you? 🙄
@@michaelcirstean9337 new typwriter ?
There are heroic people alive today. In every generation, there are people who when called upon, will do extraordinary, selfless, honorable things and you will never know their names. It's in their bones.
Yes, hero’s walk silently among us everyday. They don’t talk loudly, or show off. Hero’s that inspire me more than anything else in the world, are humble, kind to animals, gentle and meek at home as well as dealings and interactions in public.
They say that heroes aren't born, they're exposed
Superbly said, Jeremy. 'The highest medal for galantry in the world'.
Victoria Cross ... Medal of Honor ... Not one as been awarded to a man that thought he deserved it. And that is in itself bespeaks of a man that is indeed a hero.
The use of the word 'awesome' is actually accurate in this context. Truly humbled by this individual description which is so emblematic of persistent and thoughtful courage throughout the ages. Brilliantly told by Clarkson. Definitely his forte.
Any VC citation is an awesome read.
I've just watched this and am in tears, I can't write anymore at the moment as I'm in awe of all the selflessness of those men. Clarkson you have done them proud.
I often come back to this documentary. The courage and example that the VC recipients set is extraordinary.
Brilliant documentary,well done Jeremy,great as usual.
A fantastic documentary, I couldn't stop watching it! He never even told his daughter he had won the VC! Amazing! My father in law survived 30 missions as a tail gunner and navigator in a Lancaster but never spoke of it!
Lt George Burdon McKean was awarded a VC in 1918. He was born in the small town where I live. A memorial sculpture was unveiled a couple of years ago. Brave men, all of them.
hope the Beggas don't tear it down, scum BLM who actually don't matter.
This. Or The greatest raid, could be Clarksons finest work. Awesome film.
PQ17 & Isambard Kingdom Brunel are also contenders
So glad this popped up in my recommended. This was one of the best documentaries I’ve seen in a long time.
I watched this in February 2021 and I have several comments to make. Firstly I’m an ex Australian soldier. I’m a Top Gear / The Grand Tour fan. I’m a lover of history, especially military history so this documentary is right up my alley. First off, I disapprove of the term “win” when it comes to the VC. A soldier is “awarded” the medal, they don’t “win” it. It’s not a competition, but I can let that one go through to the keeper! Secondly, I’ve often wondered why Jeremey has such an affiliation to the military. I now know. To live in the shadow of such men must be a truly humbling experience. Well done Jeremey Clarkson!👍. And to the 300 that gave thumbs down to this documentary, may the Hounds of Hell urinate on you from a great height!🖕🖕🖕
Americans seem to go to great lengths to honour and respect their vets. Even the simple 'Thank you for your service' to a stranger. I wish we did more of that on this side of the Atlantic.
We were raised to not mention or ask about the wars at all to veterans in Australia unless its ANZAC day and even then its not really o.k. Its an old custom from WW1 that hasn't changed much.
@@stkfc7440 yeah i would agree with that , i also found speaking to my father and uncle they found it hard to speak about when asked so nobody forces it
As an American Veteran I will say that that respect is a kind of shield from the rest.
People say it but are ghastly afraid of any interaction past that. It is a kind of cover for a blind spot.
Hearing Vets of Vietnam talk vs Gulf or Korea or Iraq/Afghanistan...
It is hiding a much darker truth and excusing the citizen of further guilt. Everything after that phrase is met with the greatest discomfort and horror.
Because as far as the government is concerned, you are on your own and must fight for your life alone after that. And the people who work and volunteer at the VA are beyond overworked.
One of the wisest and most helpful things I learned from those who served before me: "The VA is designed to kill people"
Jeremy, ffs keep doing this kind of documentary, it's a masterclass series and you're a natural for it.
(What an absolute gem the lady Ms. Didy Grahame is).
More clarkson documentaries please
There's 3 others I'd recommend, PQ17, Greatest raid of all, Isambard Kingdom Brunel
@@Suprahampton hmmm I will check those out thanks for the suggestion
Jeremy talked about John Cruickshank the Catalina pilot who won the VC so I looked it up and much to my amazement he's still alive and in 7 days time he celebrates his 100th birthday wow,I seriously hope he's not alone and there are despite the coronavirus,family and people close by to him
@@yjypyyj298 He turned 100 in May
Magnificent story of Maj. Cain's heroism. By all accounts a truly extraordinary man during an extraordinary time. Thanks so much for posting this program. A tiny glimpse into one real facet of the event called "A Bridge Too Far".
Holy Snickeys, Clarkson was his son in law.....Jeremy is a Gemstone to British documentaries of History. I love this show.
I could imagine anyone else but Jeremy Clarkson doing these Documentaries. His ability to be serious yet put a little humor into it is absolutely wonderful. I love hearing these stories. Three uncles of mine where Marines in WWII and all over the Islands fighting the Japanese. Our soldiers during these times were the True Super Hero's.
"He never thought to mention it" so glad you did Mr Clarkson, thank you
What an amazing story, wow. I had NO IDEA of what it took to win a VC. The Story of Major Cain was an example of bravery I could have never imagined one soldier could achieve. The fact that he never even told his own daughter that he won the VC was the most surprising ending to this story. Thank you!
True hero's all of them. Clarkson truly shows respect in the way he presented this programme. Wish there was more made
A masterclass of a documentary. Great storytelling and presenting from Clarkson - even though I’m a massive Top Gear fan this is certainly his finest work/journalism. What a story. It makes me put all the problems in my life into perspective. if I was in Robert Cains shoes I would’ve got out of there as soon as possible; the bravery he demonstrated was simply unbelievable. A mindset that completely disregarded surrender, retreat or self-preservation and just focused on getting the job done no matter what it took. This documentary has made me re-define the term ‘hero’. The VC winners, and indeed all the soldiers who fought, were TRUE heroes and should never be forgotten for the sacrifices they made for us. Thank you lads
Jeremy Clarkson is fantastic at historical documentaries! I’d love to see him do more of them.
Clarkson at his best, please Jeremy do some more.
Especially a one on HMS Warspite.
@@karenblackadder1183 interesting subject! i have a letter opener made from wood which was once the captains table after she was broke up for scrap.
He's done PQ17, Greatest raid of all & Isambard Kingdom Brunel
Wish he would do more documentaries as I think he is brilliant and doing them.
He also did one of PQ17. On PBS
ua-cam.com/video/dnVZpVUevdI/v-deo.html
thepiratebay.asia/torrent/9443036/BBC_PQ17_An_Arctic_Convoy_Disaster_720p_x264_AAC_HDTV
Watched the raid video but the link to the second is just a minute long?
You do realize documentaries are what he does, right? His profession, as stated by him, is a documentary journalist. Did you think he was a chief, or an olympic swimmer? 😂
@@DC-te1gw Lots of people think he just messed about on Top Gear.
@Jeremy Clarkson is the Sir David Attenborough of documentaries of WW11.
@@karenblackadder1183 I did love him on Top Gear. The three of them had so much personality together
Absolutely amazing. From a Canadian
we forgive you
i have to say "the Greatest Raid of All" is truly one of the most enjoyable documentaries I have ever watched.
He might fool around a bit on Top Gear or the Grand Tour, but given a serious subject like this and he absolutely nails it.
Wow. I'm speechless and emotional. Such great men, but ordinary men.
My father was a bomber pilot during the war. Later on, he volunteered to fly gliders and was subsequently trained on the Horsa. As things turned out, the airborne operations came to an end before he actually went into action flying his Horsa. Luckily for me!
i had 2 grandfathers in ww2 1 and his brother that flew B-17s over germany the brother was shot down and killed. The other was a destroyer crewman. Myself an Aircraft tech for the Usaf. They simply dont make men like they used to.
As a glider pilot you had only one chance to get it right !
I have a relative who was awarded the VC at Rorke's drift, and if family history is to be believed then he falls under Clarkson's category of rouges and scoundrels.
You can't leave it at that - what's the story!
@@usget Google Private Frederick Hitch
@@harkinsclark1417
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Hitch
Harkin....thats my surname,via Derry,greetings
I love that Jeremy, who jokes around and pokes fun at a lot of things, is presenting this. No jokes, no kidding around, it really shows the administration he has for these great men.
Goosebumps twist in the last few seconds, that you couldn't get unless you watch the whole thing. Well done the researchers, and a top class presentation by Jeremy.
A remarkable documentary about a remarkable man who like many was so humble and understandably was unable to talk about the horrific events they went through
This, and The Greatest Raid, always manage to bring tears to my eyes. Thank you Clarkson for making some amazing war documentaries sir!
Same here.
Those three Canadians (Leo Clarke, Robert Shankland, and Frederick Hall) from the same street were from my hometown of Winnipeg on a street originally called Pine Street. In their honour, the street was renamed to Valour Road in 1925.
Nice
Thats one way of keeping up with the joneses.
'you hear bloody clarkey from number 14's won a victoria cross, better get a wriggle on aye'
Canadians - the British Empire's secret weapon!
Mike Smith Did the Canadian Parliaments Master at Arms receive a VC in protecting the Parliament by killing the terrorist involved in the attack .
I am from the South East Coast England, I remember my dad telling me about the Canadians camped around hear during ww2
I cannot remember the battle that they were in, I think it was Norway,, they ended up having very bad casualties,, dad said everyone of them lads deserved a VC,,
A friend of mine was one of the paras who was taken prisoner at Arnhem. He promptly escaped and was recaptured and sent to a stalag where he escaped once more and made it back to allied lines.
Simply brilliant. Been a fan of Jeremy for years and this is a side that he rarely shows; intelligent, thoughtful, and thought provoking.
I like how the VC isn’t awarded for like “well done, you killed loads of the enemy!” It’s awarded for you acting in a way that’ll will most likely lead to your death, but will benefit the squad/platoon/company as a whole. That’s true bravery, not just “I ran into enemy lines and killed loads of them” in the sake of seeking glory.
Agreed... to those who ran in and did the unthinkable for those of the unknowing of the fate that lay ahead...
That's the thing. A lot of those men acted in the way they saw fit. Friends and comrades were being killed. How do I stop that? Later when they realised what it was they'd done a lot of reaction was along the lines of "Bloody hell, I ran up to those machine gun nests? I must have been mad"
I'm sure you didn't mean to phrase the end as you did, that running into fire is for the sake of seeking glory, perhaps for self serving purposes. But your primary point is well taken. Personally, I'm not sure how to distinguish the two. Why else would one run into fire but for the sake of others?
Is it just me? Or is the audio dropping in and out?
Yes
The audio has been removed from scenes that originally had copyrighted music in the background.
@@MikkoRantalainen Thank you for explaining. I wish they'd put in an explanation.
It would good to put up subtitles showing the dialogue that's been removed along with the copyrighted music.
@@MikkoRantalainen such an anti VC act to do.
The greatest documentary series….IN THE WORLD
I've watched this and the Greatest Raid about 10 times in total. Such excellent programming.
One he does about the Arctic convoys is good aswell
@@darkwarrior6465 @jimsy Clarkson's documentary of Arctic Convoy PQ 17 is superb.
Would love to put the disparaging snowflakes in these comments on a ship following the route of the Arctic Convoys.
Even without the threat of constant death, they'd probably be screaming for their mothers within 2 days.
Don't forget his documentary on Brunel
The Making of The Greatest Raid is equally excellent. You could tell everyone involved in making the models, being a part of it, was doing it because and not just for the money.
Aye, you've certainly been well and truly programmed.
Thank you Jeremy for letting know this amazing story which shows the courage and highest qualities of the human beings who were part of these extraordinary exploits. Thank you again. Juan Carlos from Argentina
That's one of the powerfullest closing statements on any documentary I've watched
very powerfullest
I'll be honest. I didnt expect to come on YT today to find Jeremy Clarkson doing a history documentary
Men like this , set the bar for courage so high we others can see it only with binoculars. Thank you each and every one.
Fascinating--These programmes with Jeremy as narrator are absolutely gripping !!!!
The last minute of this episode is .... something of a kind.
One of the most interesting programmes I have ever watched. And what a good choice of music!!!
Jeremy really does a marvellous job with these great stories, true stories of the bravest of the brave.
This is what storytelling, history and honor are all about - unearthing the facts and details, drama and emotion are somewhat secondary - the human beings and their context are the subject matter - bravo, Mr Clarkson! This is priceless
27:31 is such an inspiring quote from Clarkson. The VC has proven that not anyone can be extraordinary but instead that an extraordinary person can come from anywhere.
I find Jeremy Clarkson documentaries very watchable. He makes a brilliant question master as well. Very talented gentleman
Robert must be a absolute mad lad. He hasn't slept, ate or drank for 4 days yet he loaded something that needed 2 men. Insane
Absolute Legend 💯
VC maybe one of the most unique gallantry medals, when talking about their recipients. Fazal Din was a Naik in the British Indian Army, born in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, British Indian Empire. In the Burma Campaign he was ran through the chest by a Japanese Samurai Officer, with the sword appearing through to his back. Fazal Din proceeded to pull the sword out of his chest and killed the officer with it.
Mrs Graham, thank you for looking after our lads and for quietly, firmly, proudly looking after YOUR boys. Please accept my deep admiration.
Just been to Arnhem. My Grandad was captured there. What a story, well told.
I'm a civvie from the States, but wow.
My hat is off to these men.
Please Jeremy, if you read these, I want more Docs like this, The Greatest Raid and Brunel. Astounding and supremely educational.
Such bravery reduces me to tears.
Comment. This video is larded with a disgraceful number of ads. That's pure greed. It is also marred by several losses of sound.
Dutch resistance had warned the Allies a week before the start of the market garden operation about the 2 veteran SS divisions, who were sent to Arnhem to recuperate from their defeat at Falaise. It was ignored as false info, since these two armored divisions were thought to have been fully annihilated. Yet 7000 SS troops survived and were stationed uncomfortably close to the drop zone of the Allies. Luckily they did not have many tanks left, or the disaster would have been complete.
I live close to the area where the battle for Arnhem took place, and make it a point to visit the local museum every year and remember the sacrifice the airborne heroes made for our freedom.
"Now let's not get bogged down with hoo did wot to hoo............." this documentary is a superb example of the excellence that is Jezza
The sound going down on two separate occasions ruined a brilliant film...well done!
I would love to see Jeremy Clarkson do an up todate version of this. Their stories need to be told.
Without doubt , the greatest generation ! Jeremy's presenting on here is top notch , you can sense the respect and admiration he has for them ....
His daughter didnt even know until after he had died. Incredible men. Excellent documentary. Mr Clarkson is rather good at these !!
Thats honestly one of the most touching things ive ever watched, great respect to these people!
This carries an even more important message about soldiers in general - they're just human. They don't want praise, or to be constantly reminded of what they did. Treat them well, give them support, and may they live the best damn lives they can, cause they've fucking earned it.
Has any woman received a VC
just wondered if at 55:00 are they the same troops shown in band of brothers series? escaping over the river with help of 101st airborne ?
Yes, but 101st never saw arnhem, they got rescued by canadian engineers of 30th Corps
Ja z
BoB is a load of shite based off books by that Ambrose fella who talks a load of embellished rubbish.
@@sandraneuser2158 Almost 10,000 men of 1st AB to land near Arnhem "never saw arnhem".
@@doug6500 Operation Pegasus October 1944 "In fact, on the south bank, Dobie, the engineers, and a patrol of E Company, 506 PIR observed the signal and immediately launched their boats, but the British were some 500-800m upriver of the crossing point."
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Pegasus#Pegasus_I
Wonderful documentary, thank you. An uncle of mine, Prem Bhagat, won the VC in north Africa, and was a modest person. My father was severely wounded in Singapore in WW2. I visited the allied graveyard near Arnheim, it was pitiful to see youngsters, aged 18 and 19 buried there. I wonder if all this bravery was wasted, given the present generation of mendacious and cowardly politicians.
One of my favorite movies that I watch every year at Remembrance Day. Than you for sharing this amazing story of an amazing man.
I just love the RHCP music in the background, great documentary!
My grandparents lived in Arnhem and they always told us about hiding in their basement whilst Germans and British soldiers were shooting at each other through the house. I am so proud of my grandparents and family. My grandparents hid jews in the attic and transported British airmen using an ambulance. My great uncle was executed in 1944 for killing dozens of Germans and disabling flack numerous times in order to pave the way for allied bombers. My other grandfather had a scar between his eyes caused by a German bayonet belonging to a soldier who did not live to tell the story.