agree 100% - one of the best pilots ever - real pioneer and one of Scottish finest. Met him in person at the ill fated Shoreham Air Disaster 2015 (Didn't have chance to natter due to accident) and RIP to the fallen 11
@@wmcmps Forrest Gump was an amateur by comparison. Every takeoff and landing Commander Brown made was recorded in his logbooks. There isn't any exaggeration. The only unbelievable thing is that he kept surviving.
What a great story, the tale of his lifetime covers such a lot of changes. And to be told to learn to fly and speak German after having such a memorable flight by an ace from 20 years ago... So he leaned German at Edinburgh Uni and how it is necessary to prepare for a flight. Yes, it is a tremendous story you have put together.
I've always said that if he was american Hollywood would be banging on his door with a large cheque in exchange for the film rights to his life story. Tom Cruise would be my bet to play him.
Eric's life is incredible, if you put it in a film you wouldn't believe it! One of my greatest regrets is never meeting him, RIP Eric 'Winkle' Brown, you sir are a genuine legend 👏👏👏
Anyone looking on at Captain Brown’s incredible life , this is what a real HERO looks like! UK film makers should be queuing up to make a biographical film of this amazing individual!! 🤓
His confidence, skill and achievements as a pilot are also matched by his modesty. From escaping Germany at the wars beginning to landing on a carrier after getting shot in the mouth and surviving the carrier sinking in near freezing water only because of his Mae West life jacket plus the years of testing countless military and civilian aircraft that have killed many experienced test pilots can only lead me to believe that Eric “Winkle” Brown was not only one great and modest pilot but also one very lucky man.
He is one bad ass. Yet modest. Listening to the story of floating in the north Atlantic ocean after having his carrier torpedoed in December at night makes one shiver in the well heated comfort of my home.
This was one of the best documentaries I’ve seen in a long long time. I had heard of Winkle Brown as a revered aviator a long time ago and repeatedly his name kept on popping up. I found your doc. I am in awe of this man. Class, modesty, courage and sublime skill. His adventures and story is truly unbelievable- thank you for this great interview
What a story ! As a German, I was more focussed on the "Luftwaffe", but seeing that story.. it was astonishing. Especially, that there was no hate in his speech, even though after he was a witness of Bergen Belsen. And being a testpilot, of so many planes, his story is worth to be remembered. Thank you for sharing your memories with us.
Thank you Ralf. You might also be interested to watch Whittle's jet engine documentary. There are also interviews with Von Ohain, one of the fathers of the jet engine: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
Had the honour of meeting and shaking the hand of this great man have a signed book from him. . A humbling experience. A true hero. . A legend. R.I.P sir.
Hello DroneScapes. I don't know your channel well but I wanted to thank you for keeping Captain Brown's story alive!!! I never get tired of hearing him describe his flight with Ernst Udet or anything else from his experiences! Amazing man!!! Right on!
I have alot of respect for how you did this doc. Just let the man speak over pictures, only interjecting to add some clarity. Gives his life story a chance to live on. Well done.
Britain was so lucky to have men of this unique calibre during a critical time in world history. His skills and dedication saved many lives, and added greatly to aeronautical knowledge. What a giant of a man. Thank you for sharing this wonderful presentation. Greetings from Tasmania Australia.
I was completely enthralled with this man’s wisdom and knowledge. I had to watch it again because he was a fascinating listen. He had so much wisdom about the different types of aircraft I was taken back by his sharp mind untouched by years. I thank God, Britain and this great man for his service to humanity throughout his life.
What a man, what a life and what an extraordinary contribution to his country and the history of aviation. I highly recommend 'Wings on my Sleeve' his autobiography and his 'Wings of the Navy' series. Imagine talking to him about the planes he's flown, the history he's lived through and the people he's met. A truly underrated British legend
I very much recommend his book "Wings on my sleeve". In it he also touches on the subject of UFO; after a disconcerting flying incident he stated with typical British reservation: "Where I once used to be very sceptical, I am not anymore."
@gravyboat2370 Please find the time you will be amazed at this diminutive yet courageous and lucky scotsmans life. My only question is why no knighthood?
@@fus149hammer5 I know all about the guy from when he was alive and yes why no knighthood. I seen the book in a shop for like 3 quid but never got round to reading it. My new years resolution 👍
Thank you for your service, Mr. Brown, and for the massive contribution you made to aviation. This production was first-class, and I learned a great deal.
Glad you enjoyed it Margot. Our partner and producer also made: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html It is Sir Frank Whittle's story and they cross path. I think you should enjoy it immensely. Happy New Year
A true British legend, Eric's record will never be surpassed by any pilot to come...I imagine Eric was great fun to spend an afternoon with reminiscing about his amazing life and the characters he had met. What a guy.
What an absolute legend Eric Brown is and a fantastic story teller with such an excellent demeanour. I felt privileged to watch this biography of a true aviation hero.
I've been an aircraft nut for 78 years (I'm 83) and I never heard of Mr. Brown. He is truly amazing - a legend. The fact that he survived a lifetime in testing aircraft surely is witness to his skill and ability. Thank you Mr. Brown and thanks to the person(s) that posted this wonderful video.
Thank you! It proves that it is never too late to learn. If you like Eric Brown's story, you should also love Sir Frank Whittle's story (unless you know that one already): ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html He was a brilliant British inventor, the father of the Jet Engine. It is an incredible story.
I was lucky enough to meet Capt. Brown, he was the most incredible man, so humble, so happy to make time to talk to me. The greatest pilot the world has ever seen.
In my view, this interview represents an important part of our military aviation history that needs to be archived securely. Congratulations on creating it.
Met Eric a number of times always a gentleman fantastic memory/ I saw him first back in the late 1990's when he gave us a lecture on his life and career, no notes but could remember the main charecteristics of all of the aircraft he had flown. Last time I met him was in 2014, he had just bought a new sports car and was looking forward to driving around his home, what a man? Thanks for posting this film plus can I recomend his autobiography Wings On My Sleeve.
A wonderful man whom I'd love to have met and could listen to his stories for hours on end. Get hold of a copy of his autobiography, "Wings on My Sleeve" it's a riveting book from end to end. Well worth every penny as it's still available and around £7 brand new. RIP Eric "Winkle" Brown RN
I have been greatly interested in aviation from my childhood in the 1950s. I have watched numerous videos about many wonderful pilots from different nationalities and have been impressed by their skill and courage. This story of Eric Brown is by far the best production that I have ever seen. Thank you for telling this amazing story of a very remarkable man.
That is a wonderful passion Robert. If you like this documentary, do not miss Sir Frank Whittle's documentary about the jet engine: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
There have been several good documentaries about "Winkle" Brown, covering the same story, but this one has many complementary details which make it well worth watching in addition to the others.
Incredible documentation of history. I am in awe of people like this who can remember everything that happened to them decades and decades ago, especially when you consider that these people were constantly busy with high level projects that would overwhelm most of us on a good day. Thank you for posting this.
Such a fascinating gentleman. One of those rare individuals fortunate enough to be in the right place, at the right point in history, and possessing the necessary skill set to place him at the cutting edge of aviation development. A truly amazing life.
Indeed, one of a kind. You may also like the amazing story of Sir Frank Whittle: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html their paths intersect in key moments in life (jet engine)
Greetings from Argentine Patagonia. I have spoken to some of our pilots who were involved in the conflict and they agreed that if the UK had had the Phantom II on the aircraft carriers, it would have been much worse for us since, in addition to increasing the danger to the fighter-bombers, it would also the tankers would have been in danger. Excellent video and a happy 2023.
As a WW2 history buff I watched this video and was fascinated by this man that i had never heard of. So many heroes that need their story told and the film industry makes remakes mostly a poor portrayal of the original, they need to step up and proudly tell the stories of these exceptional men.
Never has there been a case that shows physical height has so little to do with actual Stature. I never get tired of listening to Eric Brown’s incredible recollections. What an amazing treasure he was…and is. A complete Giant of a human being.
A definite legend always enjoyed his appearances on programs on flight & aircraft, that's the type of person is so missing in he modern world, one salutes you sir
Winkle landed a plane on a carrier while concussed - what a legend. I'm only 20 minutes in and the stories would be already be enough for your CoG hero.
Oh my, when he lands that first jet on a carrier. The thing drops out of the sky like a rock and lands on the first inch of the carrier. Would like to see a slow motion replay of that! Anybody else notice that?
I thought exactly the same thing when I saw it, it was very close indeed, although we should remember that there were no training manuals available. (He may well have written them subsequently). I suspect his second landing would have been amended, using the experience gathered, as he no doubt did with every plane he flew. It made me smile when he mentioned that he was told that the Germans, if they had their time again, probably wouldn't have let him leave Germany in his MG Magnette in September1939. Thankfully, for us in these islands, they did. A true role model for later generations.
@faunbudweis indeed. Wasn't he the first man to land a twin engined plane on one when he did that. Also the first to land a plane using the rubber mat no wheels system I think. So many firsts this great man did. Also the only non German to fly the me163
Truly brilliant interview with a brilliant man. He was someone who fitted so much into his life, though he didn't mention him meeting Hitler. Hero, legend and understated, he's the type of person who needs a monument dedicating to their life.
Some years ago I met Eric Brown at a lecture. I walked over to him and said I had worked at RAE Farnborough, and he immediatwely shook my hand and became very friendly. We spoke about a couple naval aircraft pilots who carried on his worrk there, and I moved on. Ironically despite his achievements, my love of aviation, and time at Farnborough I had never heard of him. Odd that.
I knew about the FW200 Condor kills But I had no idea his air combat record was so estensive "A few fighter sweeps and Rhubarbs" How modest he is. What a Great Man!
The figure of 487 only applies to the basic type. It doesn't include the variants he also flew, such as at least three marks of the F-86. What with everything else he accomplished, I don't think his record will ever be matched.
In 1950’s he chased a UFO over Wales in his Vampire jet and couldn’t catch it. Witnessed by other pilots, ground staff and civilians he would go on to say ‘I believe it was not of this Earth’ quite a remark for a person that didn’t tolerate fools.
An extraordinary documentary on everything...aviation with his exceptional charm of survival (Being a modest experieced pilot myself) and his attitude "old pilots and bold pilots!" flying checking himself out on hundreds of different machines! His knowledge of non aviation experience on languages, politics and other engineering are impressional. He lived a charmed life and few people have lived like him. Meeting Goring, seeing Belsom and other individuals few had that in their curriculum vitae. Fantasic Documentary!
Glad you enjoyed it James, perhaps you will equally enjoy the one made by the same partner / producer: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html I think they are both outstanding
What an incredible man! While the story itself is immensely fascinating, the way he recounted the past was extremely engaging. I was hooked to the documentary throughout. What a life he has lived. Thank you for all your pioneering work and thanks a lot to everyone involved in making documentary for bringing this incredible story to us.
Also, before this video, I had watched the documentary on Frank Whittle where Cdr. Brown was featured recounting the story of watching first jet engine plane testing from the sidelines. It was fascinating to hear his side of the story and frankly astonishing to find out that he was a record-breaking pioneering aviator on his own.
What a lucky guy to survive the war Fantastic story teller and personality. He flew with Ernst Udet? Wth? Love this documentary Not one down moment! Thankyou!
I like to describe him as the most experienced test pilot of his day, a man who had flown most machines that could fly and no small number that should not.
I cannot add to what everyone else has commented, so all I will do is agree. As a Scot I'm more than proud of him and his humility of his accomplishments in an incredible life. RIP Eric "Winkle" Brown, one of the best of the greatest generation.
Kevin, you may also like the amazing story of Sir Frank Whittle: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html It is also made by the same partner / producer, and some of his story is covered in the documentary you just watched.
Glad you enjoyed it Nigel! If you liked his story, I am almost certain you will also love Whittle's story: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html it was made by our partner, who is the same producer. It it about the invention of the jet engine
Americans should check out the Miles M-52 at 47 minutes in. Familiar? Of course it is. The British cancelled the project, just before Eric Brown was due to fly the aircraft and gave the plans to USA. The X-1 Bell used to break the sound barrier had a British design handed on a plate.
This is taken from Wikipedia for those that doubt David Elliot By 1944, design of the M.52 was 90% complete and Miles was told to go ahead with the construction of three prototypes. Later that year, the Air Ministry signed an agreement with the United States to exchange high-speed research and data. Miles' Chief Aerodynamicist Dennis Bancroft stated that Bell Aircraft personnel visited Miles later in 1944, and were given access to the drawings and research on the M.52,[2] but the U.S. reneged on the agreement and no data was forthcoming in return.[3] Unknown to Miles, Bell had already started construction of a rocket-powered supersonic design of their own, with a conventional horizontal tail. Bell was battling the problem of pitch control due to "blanking" the elevators.[4][5] A variable-incidence tail appeared to be the most promising solution; and having already decided on it for the M.52, the Miles and the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) tests supported this.[6]
Well said. The Yanks also guarded the 'Top secret' all moving tailplane, you know the one we had been flying since 1941 on the Gloster prototype testing Whittles jet engine.
@@richardmarshall4322 And its a GOOD thing the US did classify it top secret. You know why? Because the UK GAVE COMMUNIST RUSSIA the jet engine and about ten dozen other cutting edge technologies, and the All-Flying stabilator which was recognized as the key to transonic control was conspicuously absent on the Mig-15 which is the only thing the F-86 Sabre had, that one item gave the UsAF an absolute advantage until the Soviets figured it out after a decade. In was commie sympathizer working in the US, from the UK, who STOLE the blueprints of the manhattan project and gave the bomb to the Communists also. And it was a brit who published the theory of nuclear ICBM warfare in 1956? The cold war in its entirety was and is a British creation. Jets Bomb Icbms. Russian was not inventive enough to accomplish all of this independently in the short timeframe of the 1950s as they managed with Brits help.
Our government and our defense department/ defense companies have acted in ways I’m not happy with more than once. On the other hand who gave the Soviets a jet engine? Gave them a 5 year jump up at least? Maybe we had reasons that made sense to those in charge not to share what we knew? That all flying tail in the F-86 would meet MiG 15s with a British engine in it in the skies over Korea and Vietnam. But this Yank is proud to have had you Brits as Allie’s all these years and apologize for our mistakes.
What a life, a true hero and a legend, I can't think of another aviator with such a career. I would like to know is that 487 different aircraft or 487 with variants/MK's (I think I know the answer). Great vid tank you.
No variants. Totally separate distinctive types of aircraft, had it not been the figure would probably be in the 700's. He flew every variant of the Spitfire for instance including marques that didn't go into production that alone could get you up to 15 marques!
@@QuantaFilms did you actually interview him ??? That’s amazing Both my grandfathers flew in ww2 but this bloke has to be the grandfather of chuck Norris and Clint Eastwood combined What a man !!!
Click the link to watch more aircraft, heroes and their stories, missions: www.youtube.com/@Dronescapes
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This man always seemed to be at the right place at the right time. It’s almost unbelievable what the man saw and did.
I agree, unless you see evidence, you cannot believe it, I think the 1930s really got people interested in flying and even space 🚀 👍
Brown was probably the most talented pilot of the time. He quickly became the default option for anything new or difficult.
Real life Forrest Gump
agree 100% - one of the best pilots ever - real pioneer and one of Scottish finest. Met him in person at the ill fated Shoreham Air Disaster 2015 (Didn't have chance to natter due to accident) and RIP to the fallen 11
@@wmcmps Forrest Gump was an amateur by comparison. Every takeoff and landing Commander Brown made was recorded in his logbooks. There isn't any exaggeration. The only unbelievable thing is that he kept surviving.
One of the most important pilot of all time. Undoubtedly a legend of aviation.
Well said
What a great story, the tale of his lifetime covers such a lot of changes.
And to be told to learn to fly and speak German after having such a memorable flight by an ace from 20 years ago...
So he leaned German at Edinburgh Uni and how it is necessary to prepare for a flight.
Yes, it is a tremendous story you have put together.
I've always said that if he was american
Hollywood would be banging on his door with a large cheque in exchange for the film rights to his life story. Tom Cruise would be my bet to play him.
He should have had the honor that Chuck Yager eventually achieved ! First man to break the sound barrier.
Great to listen to a fellow Scot describe such a phenomenon life.
Eric's life is incredible, if you put it in a film you wouldn't believe it! One of my greatest regrets is never meeting him, RIP Eric 'Winkle' Brown, you sir are a genuine legend 👏👏👏
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He gave a lecture in the very early 2000's at Elvington, an ex-RAF airfield in Yorkshire. One of the best things I have ever done.
Anyone looking on at Captain Brown’s incredible life , this is what a real HERO looks like! UK film makers should be queuing up to make a biographical film of this amazing individual!! 🤓
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Imagine how expensive it would be to make! The cast. The locations. The planes!
They will reject the script as being too unbelievable!!
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I wonder if they will have to downplay some events like what happened to Audie Murphy in "To Hell and Back"
His confidence, skill and achievements as a pilot are also matched by his modesty. From escaping Germany at the wars beginning to landing on a carrier after getting shot in the mouth and surviving the carrier sinking in near freezing water only because of his Mae West life jacket plus the years of testing countless military and civilian aircraft that have killed many experienced test pilots can only lead me to believe that Eric “Winkle” Brown was not only one great and modest pilot but also one very lucky man.
He is one bad ass. Yet modest. Listening to the story of floating in the north Atlantic ocean after having his carrier torpedoed in December at night makes one shiver in the well heated comfort of my home.
This was one of the best documentaries I’ve seen in a long long time. I had heard of Winkle Brown as a revered aviator a long time ago and repeatedly his name kept on popping up. I found your doc. I am in awe of this man. Class, modesty, courage and sublime skill. His adventures and story is truly unbelievable- thank you for this great interview
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One of the most important pilot of all time. Undoubtedly a legend of aviation.
What a story ! As a German, I was more focussed on the "Luftwaffe", but seeing that story.. it was astonishing. Especially, that there was no hate in his speech, even though after he was a witness of Bergen Belsen. And being a testpilot, of so many planes, his story is worth to be remembered. Thank you for sharing your memories with us.
Thank you Ralf. You might also be interested to watch Whittle's jet engine documentary. There are also interviews with Von Ohain, one of the fathers of the jet engine: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
Had the honour of meeting and shaking the hand of this great man have a signed book from him. . A humbling experience. A true hero. . A legend. R.I.P sir.
How lucky 🍀
This is one of those rare UA-cam videos that is head and shoulders above almost all the others. Excellent!
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Hello DroneScapes. I don't know your channel well but I wanted to thank you for keeping Captain Brown's story alive!!! I never get tired of hearing him describe his flight with Ernst Udet or anything else from his experiences! Amazing man!!! Right on!
Thank you Derek! We have quite a few interesting stories on the channel, Including Whittle's or Bud Anderson's, Hal Farley's and many more.
Born in the 50ies I grew up admiring all the aviator heroes. Only heard about this astonishing man 15 years ago. The greatest are the humblest.
I have alot of respect for how you did this doc. Just let the man speak over pictures, only interjecting to add some clarity. Gives his life story a chance to live on. Well done.
Britain was so lucky to have men of this unique calibre during a critical time in world history. His skills and dedication saved many lives, and added greatly to aeronautical knowledge. What a giant of a man. Thank you for sharing this wonderful presentation. Greetings from Tasmania Australia.
What bottle this man had to save other pilots lives, an absolute bloody legend. He's up there with the Victoria Cross recipients.
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I genuinely feel blessed to be able to sit here and listen to the words of such a legend, the life this man led was out of a storybook.
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Eric was brilliant!! One of my heroes as well. The Edinburgh accent always gets this fellow Scotsman.
Born in Leith, Edinburgh.
@@gilbertmoyes2918he was actually born in Hackney, London but adopted by Robert and Euphemia Brown and grew up in Edinburgh.
If you made this heroic man’s life into a movie, it would sound unbelievable and too far fetched. A true legend. 💪
This is the gold standard of documentary-making, about a gentleman who truly is a legend.
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I was completely enthralled with this man’s wisdom and knowledge. I had to watch it again because he was a fascinating listen. He had so much wisdom about the different types of aircraft I was taken back by his sharp mind untouched by years. I thank God, Britain and this great man for his service to humanity throughout his life.
What a man, what a life and what an extraordinary contribution to his country and the history of aviation. I highly recommend 'Wings on my Sleeve' his autobiography and his 'Wings of the Navy' series. Imagine talking to him about the planes he's flown, the history he's lived through and the people he's met. A truly underrated British legend
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Legendary chap with also legendary storytelling skills! Riveting from beginning to end. What a life! :)
I very much recommend his book "Wings on my sleeve". In it he also touches on the subject of UFO; after a disconcerting flying incident he stated with typical British reservation: "Where I once used to be very sceptical, I am not anymore."
Just read it a few weeks ago. If he was a yank they would have made a film about his life.
Also well worth looking him up on BBC archive 'desert island discs,fasinating man
I've got this book but never had the time to read it. I must be mad
@gravyboat2370 Please find the time you will be amazed at this diminutive yet courageous and lucky scotsmans life.
My only question is why no knighthood?
@@fus149hammer5 I know all about the guy from when he was alive and yes why no knighthood. I seen the book in a shop for like 3 quid but never got round to reading it. My new years resolution 👍
Thank you for your service, Mr. Brown, and for the massive contribution you made to aviation. This production was first-class, and I learned a great deal.
Glad you enjoyed it Margot. Our partner and producer also made: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html It is Sir Frank Whittle's story and they cross path. I think you should enjoy it immensely. Happy New Year
A true British legend, Eric's record will never be surpassed by any pilot to come...I imagine Eric was great fun to spend an afternoon with reminiscing about his amazing life and the characters he had met. What a guy.
What an absolute legend Eric Brown is and a fantastic story teller with such an excellent demeanour. I felt privileged to watch this biography of a true aviation hero.
What a superb tribute to the Greatest Aviator.
I've been an aircraft nut for 78 years (I'm 83) and I never heard of Mr. Brown. He is truly amazing - a legend. The fact that he survived a lifetime in testing aircraft surely is witness to his skill and ability. Thank you Mr. Brown and thanks to the person(s) that posted this wonderful video.
Thank you! It proves that it is never too late to learn. If you like Eric Brown's story, you should also love Sir Frank Whittle's story (unless you know that one already): ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
He was a brilliant British inventor, the father of the Jet Engine. It is an incredible story.
I was lucky enough to meet Capt. Brown, he was the most incredible man, so humble, so happy to make time to talk to me. The greatest pilot the world has ever seen.
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RIP, Winkle Brown. His records will never be broken.
In my view, this interview represents an important part of our military aviation history that needs to be archived securely. Congratulations on creating it.
Thank you Chris. If you haven't watched it, Sir Frank Whittle's documentary adds another piece to the puzzle: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
Met Eric a number of times always a gentleman fantastic memory/ I saw him first back in the late 1990's when he gave us a lecture on his life and career, no notes but could remember the main charecteristics of all of the aircraft he had flown. Last time I met him was in 2014, he had just bought a new sports car and was looking forward to driving around his home, what a man? Thanks for posting this film plus can I recomend his autobiography Wings On My Sleeve.
How lucky of you 🍀
A wonderful man whom I'd love to have met and could listen to his stories for hours on end. Get hold of a copy of his autobiography, "Wings on My Sleeve" it's a riveting book from end to end. Well worth every penny as it's still available and around £7 brand new.
RIP Eric "Winkle" Brown RN
Most thankful for the interviews with Capt. Brown. So much experience and knowledge. Fascinating vid.
Thank you Jim!
Eric Brown is one of my heroes. What an amazing man and life. Very modest to boot.
What a wonderful documentary about a incredible Aviator. Hats off and a job well done!
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Have watched this multiple times. Just love listening to Brown tell stories.
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Captain Eric Melrose, the very best of British manhood. Thank you for your service. R.I.P.
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I've seen and read stuff about Eric Brown before but his stories never get old. Thanks for posting.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I have been greatly interested in aviation from my childhood in the 1950s. I have watched numerous videos about many wonderful pilots from different nationalities and have been impressed by their skill and courage. This story of Eric Brown is by far the best production that I have ever seen. Thank you for telling this amazing story of a very remarkable man.
That is a wonderful passion Robert. If you like this documentary, do not miss Sir Frank Whittle's documentary about the jet engine: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
Huge thanks to the producers of this film, without them we would never have known Eric Brown, extraordinary biography, the man is a genuine legend.
This is a wonderful documentary. Thank you so much to all involved in putting this together. Fantastic job
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A life almost beyond belief.What a man.We will never see his like again.
This is one of the Reasons Internet is a good thing,- best 1 and a half hour ever spent.thx for upload!
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Could listen to 'winkle' all year what a bunch of adventures he had!
I think he had angels looking after him
I was lucky to see him give a lecture to the Royal Aeronautical Society at Yeovilton museum
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There have been several good documentaries about "Winkle" Brown, covering the same story, but this one has many complementary details which make it well worth watching in addition to the others.
Incredible documentation of history. I am in awe of people like this who can remember everything that happened to them decades and decades ago, especially when you consider that these people were constantly busy with high level projects that would overwhelm most of us on a good day. Thank you for posting this.
You are very welcome. If you like it, do not miss this one, it is equally informative and quite revealing: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html
Such a fascinating gentleman. One of those rare individuals fortunate enough to be in the right place, at the right point in history, and possessing the necessary skill set to place him at the cutting edge of aviation development. A truly amazing life.
Indeed, one of a kind. You may also like the amazing story of Sir Frank Whittle: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html their paths intersect in key moments in life (jet engine)
What an unassuming, genuine and warm man. He deserved everything that came his way. A Leither like me. RIP Winkle.
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What an amazing life.... great video and piece of history!!
Glad you enjoyed it
This is truly a great man and and a great pilot. Thanks for this video.
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His story is epic and would make a great movie! It's great he confirms that the British gave away all our military technology to the Americans.
Fascinating, thank you!
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Greetings from Argentine Patagonia. I have spoken to some of our pilots who were involved in the conflict and they agreed that if the UK had had the Phantom II on the aircraft carriers, it would have been much worse for us since, in addition to increasing the danger to the fighter-bombers, it would also the tankers would have been in danger. Excellent video and a happy 2023.
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Very sharp brains this old man has. How do you remember what you did on a certain day of 1956. That is brilliant . am amazed.
What an outstanding pilot and exceptional human being. Very informative post thanks.
Our pleasure!
phenomenal interview of a phenomenal man
a very honourable gentle person... unlike the people nowadays. RIP.I HONOUR YOU.from tony lawrence.
As a WW2 history buff I watched this video and was fascinated by this man that i had never heard of. So many heroes that need their story told and the film industry makes remakes mostly a poor portrayal of the original, they need to step up and proudly tell the stories of these exceptional men.
Never has there been a case that shows physical height has so little to do with actual Stature. I never get tired of listening to Eric Brown’s incredible recollections. What an amazing treasure he was…and is. A complete Giant of a human being.
A definite legend always enjoyed his appearances on programs on flight & aircraft, that's the type of person is so missing in he modern world, one salutes you sir
That’s a person who was able to thoroughly was able to enjoy his chosen career. How amazing, and to have survived such intense variety and situations.
He was a friend of my Dad. He stopped by the house when he was passing through Minneapolis MN.
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Winkle landed a plane on a carrier while concussed - what a legend. I'm only 20 minutes in and the stories would be already be enough for your CoG hero.
I had the great honour of meeting this great man and had book signed blue skies soft landings rip sir
I started watching this as it auto-played. What an absolute legend.
I read his book recently. It's a really good one. Riveting in parts, but his fundamental decency and integrity is what shone through for me.
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Oh my, when he lands that first jet on a carrier. The thing drops out of the sky like a rock and lands on the first inch of the carrier. Would like to see a slow motion replay of that! Anybody else notice that?
He also landed the Mosquito on a carrier.
You can almost certainly change the speed a bit in settings.
I thought exactly the same thing when I saw it, it was very close indeed, although we should remember that there were no training manuals available. (He may well have written them subsequently). I suspect his second landing would have been amended, using the experience gathered, as he no doubt did with every plane he flew.
It made me smile when he mentioned that he was told that the Germans, if they had their time again, probably wouldn't have let him leave Germany in his MG Magnette in September1939. Thankfully, for us in these islands, they did. A true role model for later generations.
@faunbudweis indeed. Wasn't he the first man to land a twin engined plane on one when he did that. Also the first to land a plane using the rubber mat no wheels system I think. So many firsts this great man did. Also the only non German to fly the me163
@@animaltvi9515 That very Me 163 is on display at the East Fortune museum near Edinburgh.
Truly brilliant interview with a brilliant man. He was someone who fitted so much into his life, though he didn't mention him meeting Hitler. Hero, legend and understated, he's the type of person who needs a monument dedicating to their life.
This documentary tries to add details and explanations which other documentaries omitted, and vice versa.
Some years ago I met Eric Brown at a lecture. I walked over to him and said I had worked at RAE Farnborough, and he immediatwely shook my hand and became very friendly. We spoke about a couple naval aircraft pilots who carried on his worrk there, and I moved on.
Ironically despite his achievements, my love of aviation, and time at Farnborough I had never heard of him. Odd that.
Maybe because he was so good, people assumed that everybody already knew all about him. Taken for granted in fact.
I knew about the FW200 Condor kills But I had no idea his air combat record was so estensive "A few fighter sweeps and Rhubarbs"
How modest he is. What a Great Man!
Well said. Do not miss him talking about some of the German aircraft he tested: ua-cam.com/video/4Qhr0WP1ML8/v-deo.html
Fantastic interview and historical data recorded. This was a Top Shelf 1% military story for all military historians to watch.
The figure of 487 only applies to the basic type. It doesn't include the variants he also flew, such as at least three marks of the F-86. What with everything else he accomplished, I don't think his record will ever be matched.
Probably an impossible feat
@@ecosseman I would think so, I wasn't 100% sure
What a cunning character and personification of a piece of history that ought to be remembered.
In 1950’s he chased a UFO over Wales in his Vampire jet and couldn’t catch it. Witnessed by other pilots, ground staff and civilians he would go on to say ‘I believe it was not of this Earth’ quite a remark for a person that didn’t tolerate fools.
An extraordinary documentary on everything...aviation with his exceptional charm of survival (Being a modest experieced pilot myself) and his attitude "old pilots and bold pilots!" flying checking himself out on hundreds of different machines!
His knowledge of non aviation experience on languages, politics and other engineering are impressional. He lived a charmed life and few people have lived like him. Meeting Goring, seeing Belsom and other individuals few had that in their curriculum vitae. Fantasic Documentary!
Belsen.
Thanks. Legend Captain Brown RN.
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What an incredible guy. I really enjoyed listening to him.
What an incredible man. Amazing documentary. So much achieved. A very articulate man too. So good.
Glad you enjoyed it James, perhaps you will equally enjoy the one made by the same partner / producer: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html I think they are both outstanding
What an incredible man! While the story itself is immensely fascinating, the way he recounted the past was extremely engaging. I was hooked to the documentary throughout. What a life he has lived. Thank you for all your pioneering work and thanks a lot to everyone involved in making documentary for bringing this incredible story to us.
Also, before this video, I had watched the documentary on Frank Whittle where Cdr. Brown was featured recounting the story of watching first jet engine plane testing from the sidelines. It was fascinating to hear his side of the story and frankly astonishing to find out that he was a record-breaking pioneering aviator on his own.
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Thank you for our freedom Captain Brown.
what a wonderful story told by an amazing man, ThanK GoD for men such as Eric 'Winkle' Brown ..
What a lucky guy to survive the war
Fantastic story teller and personality.
He flew with Ernst Udet? Wth?
Love this documentary
Not one down moment!
Thankyou!
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I like to describe him as the most experienced test pilot of his day, a man who had flown most machines that could fly and no small number that should not.
487 individual aircraft, not counting variations! wow
His books are well worth a read. What a man.
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I cannot add to what everyone else has commented, so all I will do is agree. As a Scot I'm more than proud of him and his humility of his accomplishments in an incredible life.
RIP Eric "Winkle" Brown, one of the best of the greatest generation.
Some men attract adventure like a magnet, and his wife is stunning.
This was really good and Captain Brown earned a great career, one of the finest combat and test pilots of the war, very affable and knowledgeable
What an amazing life this man had . It is absolutely fascinating listening to him.
Kevin, you may also like the amazing story of Sir Frank Whittle: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html It is also made by the same partner / producer, and some of his story is covered in the documentary you just watched.
This guy has been one of my heroes for decades. A true legend.
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Thank you so, so much. Right after watching this documentary, I'm left humbled by the achievement of this man. Well done!
Glad you enjoyed it Nigel! If you liked his story, I am almost certain you will also love Whittle's story: ua-cam.com/video/G0T4-XG612Q/v-deo.html it was made by our partner, who is the same producer. It it about the invention of the jet engine
Americans should check out the Miles M-52 at 47 minutes in. Familiar? Of course it is. The British cancelled the project, just before Eric Brown was due to fly the aircraft and gave the plans to USA. The X-1 Bell used to break the sound barrier had a British design handed on a plate.
This is taken from Wikipedia for those that doubt David Elliot
By 1944, design of the M.52 was 90% complete and Miles was told to go ahead with the construction of three prototypes. Later that year, the Air Ministry signed an agreement with the United States to exchange high-speed research and data. Miles' Chief Aerodynamicist Dennis Bancroft stated that Bell Aircraft personnel visited Miles later in 1944, and were given access to the drawings and research on the M.52,[2] but the U.S. reneged on the agreement and no data was forthcoming in return.[3] Unknown to Miles, Bell had already started construction of a rocket-powered supersonic design of their own, with a conventional horizontal tail. Bell was battling the problem of pitch control due to "blanking" the elevators.[4][5] A variable-incidence tail appeared to be the most promising solution; and having already decided on it for the M.52, the Miles and the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) tests supported this.[6]
Well said. The Yanks also guarded the 'Top secret' all moving tailplane, you know the one we had been flying since 1941 on the Gloster prototype testing Whittles jet engine.
@@richardmarshall4322 And its a GOOD thing the US did classify it top secret. You know why? Because the UK GAVE COMMUNIST RUSSIA the jet engine and about ten dozen other cutting edge technologies, and the All-Flying stabilator which was recognized as the key to transonic control was conspicuously absent on the Mig-15 which is the only thing the F-86 Sabre had, that one item gave the UsAF an absolute advantage until the Soviets figured it out after a decade. In was commie sympathizer working in the US, from the UK, who STOLE the blueprints of the manhattan project and gave the bomb to the Communists also.
And it was a brit who published the theory of nuclear ICBM warfare in 1956? The cold war in its entirety was and is a British creation.
Jets
Bomb
Icbms.
Russian was not inventive enough to accomplish all of this independently in the short timeframe of the 1950s as they managed with Brits help.
Our government and our defense department/ defense companies have acted in ways I’m not happy with more than once. On the other hand who gave the Soviets a jet engine? Gave them a 5 year jump up at least? Maybe we had reasons that made sense to those in charge not to share what we knew? That all flying tail in the F-86 would meet MiG 15s with a British engine in it in the skies over Korea and Vietnam.
But this Yank is proud to have had you Brits as Allie’s all these years and apologize for our mistakes.
Do you guys just think we are uneducated cave men most of aviation history is deeply intertwined with itself
What a life, a true hero and a legend, I can't think of another aviator with such a career. I would like to know is that 487 different aircraft or 487 with variants/MK's (I think I know the answer). Great vid tank you.
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Biggles?
No variants. Totally separate distinctive types of aircraft, had it not been the figure would probably be in the 700's. He flew every variant of the Spitfire for instance including marques that didn't go into production that alone could get you up to 15 marques!
an extremely modest and pleasant man who told wonderful stories. I had the pleasure to meet him in person twice when hé gave a 'lecture'.
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Wonderful story from a hero to aviation and most likely in civilian life as well...
Legend, how do we comprehend the gravity of his contribution. RIP Captain Brown
An excellent interview. What an amazing man.
A really great interview with a wonderful man.
That was one of the most enjoyable interviews I’ve seen
What a amazing man
I'm glad you liked it. It was a pleasure to film Eric.
@@QuantaFilms did you actually interview him ???
That’s amazing
Both my grandfathers flew in ww2 but this bloke has to be the grandfather of chuck Norris and Clint Eastwood combined
What a man !!!