Dad's Army - Revealing their real wartime service

The fourth & final of the Dad's Army real stories from The History Chap.
This tells the real wartime stories of, amongst others, John Le Mesurier (Sergeant Wilson) and Arthur Lowe (Captain Mainwaring).
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Related videos in this series on "Dad's Army"
Private Godfrey (Arnold Ridley)
• Arnold Ridley - Privat...
Lance Corporal Jones (Clive Dunn)
• "Dad's Army": What Was...
Private Frazer (John Laurie)
• John Laurie - Private ...
Whilst this video looks at the wartime service of the main platoon members such as Clive Dunn (Lance Corporal Jones), John Laurie (Private Frazer) and Arnold Ridley (Private Godfrey) it also looks at the stories of some of the lesser known characters too.
Edward Sinclair (Verger Yeatman) who served in the Ox & Bucks Light Infantry but who missed out on the D-Day landings in Normandy.
Bill Pertwee (Warden Hodges) who failed a medical to join the RAF and spent the war in a factory making cannon for spitfires.
Plus we look at Private Walker, Private Sponge and Private Cheeseman, not forgetting Captain Square.
Finally we look at the wartime service of the co-writers of the show, Jimmy Perry and David Croft.
It was Perry's experiences of the Home Guard that led him to write "Dad's Army", and his further experiences with the Royal Artillery concert party in Burma & India that led to another of their classic collaborations: "It ain't half hot mum".
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#dadsarmy #brtishcomedy #ww2
Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:02 Sergeant Wilson (John Le Mesurier)
4:15 John Le Mesurier's wartime service
9:12 Arthur Lowe
10:50 WW1 veterans
13:39 Clive Dunn (Corporal Jones)
16:58 Captain Square
17:50 Privates Pike & Walker
18:30 private Cheeseman
19:03 Private Sponge
19:40 Mr Hodges (Bill Pertwee)
20:23 Edward Sinclair
21:20 Jimmy Perry & David Croft
24:25 Conclusion
25:10 The History Chap
Follow me at:
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My name is Chris Green and I love to share stories from British history. Not just because they are interesting but because, good or bad, they have shaped the world we live in today.
History should not be stuffy or a long list of dates or kings & queens.
So rather than lectures or KZread animations, I tell stories that bring the past to life.
My aim is to be chat as if I were having a coffee or meal with you. Jean in Maryland, USA recently wrote: "Chris, is the history teacher I wish I had at school!"
Just for the record, I do have a history degree in Medieval & Modern history from the University of Birmingham.
Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Chris Green Communication Ltd t/a The History Chap. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Chris Green Communication Ltd does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, violence or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.

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  • @johnmurray1529
    @johnmurray1529 Жыл бұрын

    A yank Afghan veteran here, I started watching this show because of you. I secretly call this Grandad's Army. My grandad survived the bombing of London as a kid. He and his parents went to the US, when he became of age he joined the Canadian Army. Went back overseas to finish out the war. Then he immigrated to the US. He passed in 02, shows like this make me feel connected to him. Cheers!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching

  • @oscarosullivan4513

    @oscarosullivan4513

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHistoryChap It was the era of actors who served

  • @freedomvigilant1234

    @freedomvigilant1234

    Жыл бұрын

    My Dad survived the Blitz. He was born in 1938 in Wimbledon. He lived in Rochdale, Lancashire, during his teens until he was about 33.

  • @mombaassa

    @mombaassa

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@pztnskint ...and 'Allo 'Allo.

  • @andrewobrien6671

    @andrewobrien6671

    Жыл бұрын

    He was what they would call nowadays a stoner. He was extremely fond of cannabis

  • @alanknights7296
    @alanknights7296 Жыл бұрын

    Suffering from PTSD myself after my own Military experiences, i discovered Dad's Army and began watching at least one episode first thing in the morning, and again last thing at night. Looking back now, i think that it worked as a kind of sub-conscious therapy. Now, years later, i can honestly say without any doubt or exaggeration, that Dad's Army saved my life.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Wow, what a powerful story. Thanks for sharing.

  • @garybrockwell2031

    @garybrockwell2031

    Жыл бұрын

    LAUGHTER is the Blessing 🆘💯✌️💪🎬🇬🇧

  • @mjspice100

    @mjspice100

    Жыл бұрын

    After WW1 and WW2 a large section of the population had done military service and seen combat, I think that they were able to debrief themselves in the years afterwards as they were able to relate to each other and support each other, this doesn’t mean that PTSD didn’t exist, it did but they at least could understand the effects having been through it themselves. Now of course there is no compulsory military service so issues like PTSD are more prevalent because less of the population have an understanding. I hope this makes sense, it’s just my own thoughts and is in no way intended to belittle those with this problem. Thank you for your service…

  • @lansdorf

    @lansdorf

    Жыл бұрын

    My grandfather was in the first war then from 1925 served in the territorials right upto 1939 where he was based at morcambe training young soldiers, having three sons of call up age we think it was too much for him and he took his own life a week before it was announced we were at war with Germany. My fathers older brothers did serve and were captured at Anzio but came home eventually. It's so sad and I we can never imagine what's going through his mind and all those other soldiers that have served their country.

  • @Soundpj

    @Soundpj

    Жыл бұрын

    I agree Alan I have PTSD, but from severe burns following cancer....dads army helps me in the evening....because they are such fine people. Kim.

  • @paul68z
    @paul68z Жыл бұрын

    Arnold Ridley (Godfrey) saw active service in WW1, sustaining several wounds in close-quarter battle. His left hand was left virtually useless by wounds sustained on the Somme; his legs were riddled with shrapnel; he received a bayonet wound in the groin (no antibiotics in those days) and the legacy of a blow to the head from a German soldier's rifle butt left him prone to blackouts after the war. He was medically discharged from the army with the rank of lance corporal in May 1917, yet the volunteered for WW2. The generations of the past are just in a different class. Selfless, non complaining with surely something to teach us today?

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    You are correct. I went into those details in my video specifically about Arnold Ridley: kzread.info/dash/bejne/qWuC2bB_npinh7Q.html

  • @carolcasey5441

    @carolcasey5441

    10 ай бұрын

    Beautiful boys. ❤❤❤

  • @simonsmith1974
    @simonsmith1974 Жыл бұрын

    To think that Ridley and Laurie both survived terrible battles and still managed to smile and give us moments of laughter is incredible.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    That's a nice comment.

  • @martinputt6421
    @martinputt6421 Жыл бұрын

    One of my favourite shows. Amazing that John Le Mesurier essentially was as laid back in real life as he was in Dad's Army.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    I bet he annoyed some people around him 🤣

  • @martinputt6421

    @martinputt6421

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHistoryChap I bet he did, certainly seems to have had an impact on the Sergeants and Officers training him. 😆

  • @DieWitness

    @DieWitness

    Жыл бұрын

    I always thought they were just actors this show certainly brings back childhood memories

  • @martinputt6421

    @martinputt6421

    Жыл бұрын

    @@DieWitness I think the experiences of many cast members really helped to bring the realism out.

  • @windsorSJ

    @windsorSJ

    Жыл бұрын

    I think he was a British icon, so many memorable movies and TV appearances. I felt sad when I learned about his life with Hattie Jacques.

  • @rawschri
    @rawschri Жыл бұрын

    As funny as it was, the most memorable scene is at the closing of the final episode, where the platoon are stood down on the seafront, after a false invasion alert sent them scurrying from Jones's wedding celebration. The major cast members discuss the Home Guard from all over the Country, and in a piece to camera, raise their glasses in a toast to " Britain's Home Guard " .... always brings a tear to my eye !!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @memybikeni9931

    @memybikeni9931

    Жыл бұрын

    I know what you mean, gave me a lump in my throat too.

  • @jakobgrimminger

    @jakobgrimminger

    Жыл бұрын

    Same here, as my grandad was in our local Home Guard

  • @richmaniow

    @richmaniow

    Жыл бұрын

    I can't remember whether I've seen the last episode or not tbh, I don't think the later series get repeated that often now but hopefully it'll do the rounds again at some point, excellent video as always 👍

  • @paulcarter2258

    @paulcarter2258

    10 ай бұрын

    Snap!!!

  • @kennedysingh3916
    @kennedysingh3916 Жыл бұрын

    Watched from Jamaica, and remember Dad's Army well.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching. Hope Jamaica is warmer than Worcester!

  • @paulgrahamcarsalesman.7012
    @paulgrahamcarsalesman.7012 Жыл бұрын

    As a young male in the UK growing up, "Dad's Army" was must see tv. I knew a little of the stories, but you wove them together much better than any newspaper story I ever read on the subject. Well done!

  • @mariarusso3790

    @mariarusso3790

    Жыл бұрын

    Hi Paul how are you doing. Have a nice Sunday 😊

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Many thanks

  • @robertstrong6798

    @robertstrong6798

    Жыл бұрын

    I’m 42 my daughter is 17 she loves it , stands the test of time 🕰️

  • @msgfrmdaactionman3000
    @msgfrmdaactionman3000 Жыл бұрын

    Amazing stories, thanks a lot! I'm across the pond, a retired US Navy veteran who enjoys military comedies like Dad's Army and Hogan's Heroes. I served alongside the Aussies in Iraq in 2004. When Dad's Army was made, those were the days when many actors, writers and film makers were veterans. Now, at least in the US, they are a very rare thing. Perhaps that's why I don't watch newer shows anymore, its gone against my patriotic morals too much. I'm happy Dad's Army had a long run so I can watch all those episodes I haven't seen yet!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed. It is amazing how many veterans were in the show but, as you say, in the 60's and 70's every other man probably was one!

  • @flyingwombat59

    @flyingwombat59

    Жыл бұрын

    Comedian Rob Riggle is a US Marine reserve Lt. Colonel

  • @keithparker5103

    @keithparker5103

    Жыл бұрын

    MsgFrmDa ActionMan. I agree, I was born during WW2 and no longer watch ANY modern TV shows or series. I am very choosy what movies I watch too.

  • @kellysouter4381

    @kellysouter4381

    Жыл бұрын

    You know all episodes are on KZread?

  • @dereknewbury163
    @dereknewbury163 Жыл бұрын

    My Father, ex Home Guard and ex India/Burma absolutely loved this show and I especially am thankful for the pleasure it gave him and the link it helped me forge with him

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to share.

  • @setbellic6916

    @setbellic6916

    11 ай бұрын

    My Grandfather served in the Home Guard, I remember he was annoyed that the show was a comedy. It was a very desperate time, expecting an invasion by the Nazi's, and he didn't feel it was a subject for merriment. But he did watch it and mentioned to me that the beginning was accurate. First they were issued with arm bands, a little while later they got a rifle, sometime later they were issued with three bullets - with these they were expected to stop Hitler invading. I still have his arm band.

  • @rodneytregear7407
    @rodneytregear740710 ай бұрын

    A great documentary. I was born in 1945, My Dad served through the war in the Royal West Kent Regiment and was evacuated at Dunkirk and then his war ended when he was wounded at the Battle of Monte Cassino in 1944/ His life in tatters much of it spilled over to me. Dad,s Army a one off. Cannot and will not ever be repeated. Thank you so much for this very thoughtful and informative presentation.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    10 ай бұрын

    My pleasure. Thank you for watching.

  • @genwoolfe
    @genwoolfe Жыл бұрын

    My granddad was injured at Passendael while serving in 'K11' during WW1 (11th bn Essex Regt/Kitcher volunteers)and was a Sgt in the 'Mutton Lancers' (West Surrey Regt/Home Guard) during WW2. He always laughed at Mainwaring & Co because it was so true to life. My mother recalls being blown off the outside loo at the age of 6 when a doodle bug landed nearby and blew the window in.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing and I hope you enjoyed the video.

  • @aminullah2628
    @aminullah2628 Жыл бұрын

    I am a retired British soldier. This presentation is absolutely brilliant... thank you.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @cal9064
    @cal9064 Жыл бұрын

    Undoubtedly one of the best, in a long line of British comedy series. Never get tired watching these fine actors at their work. "Dad's Army" will always be a personal favorite.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed this video.

  • @stephenterrilltraveller
    @stephenterrilltraveller Жыл бұрын

    I grew up watching Dads Army, now I'm in my 40's. It's the greatest British comedy in my eyes.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment.

  • @skylarkman2000

    @skylarkman2000

    Жыл бұрын

    Dads Army was so well cast . All the characters were amazing !!

  • @stillstanding123
    @stillstanding123 Жыл бұрын

    Soft easy humour, addictive viewing, every week a new episode. What made it work so well for me was the contrast between the characters and their interplay. Little did i realise how much of this was based on their real wartime experiences. Thank you for your detailed research and story. I would never have known.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    It's my pleasure. I think you summed up the show beautifully in your opening line: "Soft, easy humour".

  • @mariarusso3790

    @mariarusso3790

    Жыл бұрын

    Hi Lee how are you doing. Have a nice Sunday 😊

  • @danielmcaloon4691
    @danielmcaloon4691 Жыл бұрын

    Been watching Dads Army since I was 4 years old, I am nearly 60 now and still watch any episode I can. Thank you for the background info on the actors

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure.

  • @kenh3344

    @kenh3344

    10 ай бұрын

    Well you seem to have to have some sort of record here? Mmmmmm

  • @cliftonmanley3882
    @cliftonmanley3882 Жыл бұрын

    Dad lied about his age in 1936 and joined the Queens Light Husars because he liked the uniform. The girls liked it too. When the horses were dropped he didn't go to tanks, he became a motorcycle dispatch rider, they had a choice. Dad's Army was his FAVOURITE TV show, he loved it. I now wonder if he knew he served with a Walmington on Sea veteran. He probably did, but wouldn't talk about his 5 years in a Japanese PoW Camp. He was captured in Hong Kong. Loved this series 👏 it took me back to laughing 😃 with Dad. Great memories. Thank you 😊

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to share the stories about your dad.

  • @annwilliams6438

    @annwilliams6438

    11 ай бұрын

    Five years! Ouch. He must have been an incredibly courageous man to have survived that.

  • @cliftonmanley3882

    @cliftonmanley3882

    11 ай бұрын

    @@annwilliams6438 he never blamed his captors, he blamed the politicians. "None of them wanted to be there either. They wanted to be home." My dad was a difficult to know. Always his own person and took shit from noonday. Very respected and liked. Rarely talked about the PoW Camp unless he was drunk. I miss him.

  • @nigeldewallens1115

    @nigeldewallens1115

    Ай бұрын

    @@cliftonmanley3882 I am so sorry to hear of your dads experiences! Mine did not serve as he was in a protected service being in the civil engineering trade and worked on that I know of Airports and the building of the Mulberry Harbours! We got to know of a service man that tried to come out with us on our boat but could not cope he too was out in the field that you dad was and I think a POW! He never talked about it either! I miss my dad too! He died in 1999

  • @cliftonmanley3882

    @cliftonmanley3882

    Ай бұрын

    @@nigeldewallens1115 it's hard to see what's happening in Ukraine. Dad said he wanted to escape Europe's endless wars. It's why I was born in Australia. Putin is straight out of Hitler's playbook. And again we have the US dithering... it makes me angry

  • @maggiebrinkley4760
    @maggiebrinkley476011 ай бұрын

    I loved 'Dad's Army' when I were a lass. Also, my children, both born in the 1980s, adored 'Dad's Army', they found it very funny. My parents (born 1916 and 1919 and both in the Forces in the 1940s) also loved the show, of course they remembered those days. It's timeless comedy, performed by great actors. An absolute classic.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    11 ай бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment.

  • @newy2242
    @newy2242 Жыл бұрын

    i can't believe that picture of the back of Tidworth camp you showed. I was based there during the 1980's, and we used to run up that hill every friday before going home for weekend leave. great seiers on Dads army one of my favorite programs thanks

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad it brought back some memories.

  • @Starman2319
    @Starman2319 Жыл бұрын

    We will remember them. Thank you for telling us their stories.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thank you for watching them.

  • @stevemccann4166

    @stevemccann4166

    Жыл бұрын

    “Don’t tell him Pike”

  • @TheAndrewJBaker
    @TheAndrewJBaker Жыл бұрын

    My father was sent to be disciplined by Captain Le Mesurier for something very silly. He said he was exactly the same in the real army as he was in Dads Army.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Funny. Thanks for sharing.

  • @paul-t-geist4245
    @paul-t-geist42459 ай бұрын

    An absolute classic British comedy, used to watch it when first aired and still enjoy it today.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    9 ай бұрын

    A great comedy indeed

  • @harryshriver6223
    @harryshriver62236 ай бұрын

    What a wonderful mix of stories and histories of the cast, I will have to discover that comedy since I enjoy British comedy. Well done, sir you have paid a wonderful tribute to the men of this historic series.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    6 ай бұрын

    Thank you for your very kind comment

  • @johnhanson5943
    @johnhanson5943 Жыл бұрын

    Happiest memories watching Dad’s Army with my Dad in the 1970’s. Every Saturday evening after dinner. Britain was still a great country then. My Dad loved this show. He was in the RAF training in Wellingtons as a navigator at the end of the war. Luckily missed having to go into action. Thank you for the great memories.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad I could revive those memories for you.

  • @RetroGamesCollector
    @RetroGamesCollector Жыл бұрын

    Fascinating stuff. I remember reading in Le Mesurier's autobiography 'A Jobbing Actor' about how he and Arthur Lowe never got on. I suppose that made their parts much easier!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Lowe & Dunne shared very different political views and had to agree to disagree on set.

  • @danielomar9712

    @danielomar9712

    Жыл бұрын

    It's the irony of the class conflicts we saw in the Dad's Army too

  • @aswclassicsiow8588
    @aswclassicsiow85888 ай бұрын

    My daughter who was born in 1984 loved Dads Army from a very young age use to watch it every week, she is now 39years old and still watches it every chance she get

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    7 ай бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment

  • @No1sonuk
    @No1sonuk Жыл бұрын

    WRT Clive Dunn: It's my opinion that him being younger than the other "old" characters is why so many of the "dangerous" things happened to him - Despite looking old, he was probably one of the fittest members of the main cast.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Indeed, that is why he ended up doing some of the mad antics (plus he enjoyed doing them!)

  • @clive3490
    @clive3490 Жыл бұрын

    Arthur Lowe "where he served on searchlight duties" gives the impression he was operating search lights. As he was RAOC (and later REME) it is more likely that he was FIXING searchlights

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @davidgray3321
    @davidgray3321 Жыл бұрын

    I have my great grandfathers obituary, a Pipe Major Royal Scott’s and Scott’s guards, fought in Sudan , Boer war, and was still in the army at The Somme in WW1, where his service and life ended, aged 54, rest well Murdo, he also had taught the royal family Scottish dancing. Two of his sons were also pipers. These men existed.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to share

  • @johnfiler6448
    @johnfiler6448 Жыл бұрын

    Dad's Army was a classic British comedy with many great actors. Excellent coverage of these gentlemen. Thank you and Stay Safe.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for watching.

  • @sandfly
    @sandfly Жыл бұрын

    I feel quite nostalgic. What a wonderful series it was with such engaging characters.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching.

  • @TimvanderLeeuw
    @TimvanderLeeuw Жыл бұрын

    ❣️ My favourite comedy about the wartime is 'Allo 'Allo, somehow I never latched on onto Dad's Army to the same extend, but it has always been enjoyable to watch.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @stevej3296
    @stevej3296 Жыл бұрын

    Brilliant series. Love the theme tune as well. Jimmy Perry wrote the lyrics and Bud Flanagan nailed it in one take. It was his last recording as he passed away shortly afterwards.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @deusvult539
    @deusvult539 Жыл бұрын

    Chris, You often ask for suggestions to research topics. I have one that you may like to consider, and it goes back 60 years or so when I collected Indian Army cap badges. I recall regiments that I had no clue about, and it was before the age of Internet so difficult to research. Regiments such as Probyn's Horse, Hodson's Horse, "Jumbo" Lancers and countless others. As Indian regiments (and Pakistani Regiments) played such a part in the 14th Army and so many other theatres of both World wars, you may like to consider doing some episodes. If you are up for it you might want to look at doing similar with East and West African regiments - maybe West Indian also. Do keep up the good work. John.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Great suggestions. I will add to my (ever growing) list.

  • @revellien
    @revellien Жыл бұрын

    A few years ago I was suffering from a really serious period of depression - couldn’t read newspapers, listed to radio, watch TV etc. I did however have the complete DVD set of Dads Army which was the only thing that I could watch and also had the BBC radio versions which i listened to at night via headphones when I couldn’t sleep. Loved this programme and owe it so much. How far has the BBC fallen.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment.

  • @revellien

    @revellien

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHistoryChap Meant every word.

  • @Mr1990hjc
    @Mr1990hjc Жыл бұрын

    I have watched this whole series at least 4 times, and can't help but wonder if "thats really wise" because it never gets old, and I may develop an addiction to it ! When Mainwaring said, "In the name of King George the sixth, I demand you open this door !" To the caretaker of the armaments museum, who was Jones' Dad, Jones told Mainwaring, "It won't do you no good to talk to him about King George the sixth, he still thinks Queen Victoria is King !" I was hooked !

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing those great lines.

  • @memybikeni9931
    @memybikeni9931 Жыл бұрын

    Watched this as a kid, will always love it. The very first episode, “The Man and the Hour” was set in present day 1968, when the series started, Cpt Mainwaring gives an address at the rotary club from memory, recalling his memories of his time with the men of the Walmington on sea Home Guard. It then flashed back, and stayed flashed back for the entire 80 plus episodes over the 9 years it ran. They don’t make TV like this anymore !

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    It was a great series in so many ways.

  • @memybikeni9931

    @memybikeni9931

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHistoryChap I visit Great Yarmouth with the kids frequently, Arthur Lowe’s statue is sat on a bench by a canal in Thetford, Norfolk, I always visit. The Dads Army museum is also worth a view, which is a few minutes away.

  • @stevealharris6669
    @stevealharris6669 Жыл бұрын

    There's a statue of Arthur Lowe as Captain Mainwaring by the river downtown ~ Hello from Thetford , Norfolk the filming location of the TV series (but not the Films)

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing

  • @guyh9992
    @guyh9992 Жыл бұрын

    My father was a member of the RAAF who served with the RAF in England for three years during WWII. He was in his early 20s at the time and before he passed away described the sight of, what were to him, elderly Englishmen marching with broomsticks. Dads Army on Australian TV in the 70s and 80s certainly brought back memories for him before he passed away.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing

  • @carolcasey5441

    @carolcasey5441

    10 ай бұрын

    God bless us all, especially grandpa. ❤❤❤

  • @davidberlanny3308
    @davidberlanny3308 Жыл бұрын

    Dads Army was always a great favourite of mine, I guess I'm part of the 18million who watched it back in the day!! Most of the episodes are on KZread so I went through them all one after the other a few years ago. Amazing stories of each actor from the past . Thanks very much and good luck from Spain!!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching and commenting too. I hope Spain is warmer than it is here in Worcester.

  • @davidberlanny3308

    @davidberlanny3308

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHistoryChap Hi Chris, Well should be up over 20° today but only a few days ago it was freezing here. We get some pretty cold weather down here in winter unless you live on the coast. I'm about an hour inland and high up in Granada, southern Spain. The mountain tops down here are still covered in snow and people are still skiing. In taht cold snap of a few days ago there was some heavy snowfalls in Majorca would you believe!! Have a great weekend!!

  • @petermcculloch4933

    @petermcculloch4933

    Жыл бұрын

    I own the entire series on DVD and still watch episodes frequently

  • @brashers759
    @brashers759 Жыл бұрын

    My Grandfather served in the RTC as a Sergeant, he met John Le Mesurier before he was posted to India, but maintained contact with each other whilst my grandfather carried out duties as an instructor, they remained friends until John’s death in 1983, my grandfather died in 1985. The greatest generation!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Wow. Brill story. Thanks for sharing

  • @richardcastle3204
    @richardcastle3204 Жыл бұрын

    I don't often find well-researched, well-written content on YT but here I have. The engaging commentary is a bonus. Good work!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you very much. Please do subscribe to my channel.

  • @dickygeemusic
    @dickygeemusic Жыл бұрын

    One of the back row of the platoon, a non-speaking role, was show advisor and actor Alec Colman. He was also a Home Guardsman before joining the regular army. I had the privilege of interviewing him for my documentary about the Home Guard and Civil Defence. My grandad was a warden :)

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @jamesabernethy7896
    @jamesabernethy7896 Жыл бұрын

    I found your channel because of your Dad's Army videos and really love them. I've only watched a handful of your other videos so far. Your videos are informative, very well presented, enthusiastic and so so warm. They are so great to watch with a splash of humour to keep things upbeat while never showing any disrespect to the serious sides of the real war. Fantastic. My father did his national service, he did some of his duties at Suez but rarely spoke about his experiences. More down to modesty than anything else. He also was in the background of 'I was Monty's double' he was much too small to see but he knows that was part of the filming.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    James thanks for commenting and also sharing about your father. Glad you are enjoying my videos.

  • @grahamblank8367
    @grahamblank8367 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks THC. Brings back wonderful memories of my late Dad, an Aussie WWII veteran, and I roaring with laughter when watching Dad's Army together.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Still hilarious and a gentle sort of humour.

  • @jonathanpatrick8506
    @jonathanpatrick8506 Жыл бұрын

    I can remember when Dad's army came up to Thetford for filming most of the cast would stay at main hotel while the film crew stayed at my grandparents hotel except there was also one cast member who would also stay with with us as well and that happens to be John Laurie. In the mornings he would come down for breakfast but never ate in the restaurant but use to come into the kitchen to eat. I always think he enjoyed the company. Yes I have in fact met most of the cast when I was young but I also remember many of the film crews who use to disappear in the morning without paying and the BBC film crews were notorious for doing this. One call to the director general of the BBC by my grandparent and all accounts were settled out of their wage packets. Also David Croft lived in Honington which is just a few miles away from Thetford so hence a good reason why many of Dad's army outdoor scenes was filmed up and around the army battle areas near Lynford , West Toffs

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    What lovely memories. Thanks for sharing.

  • @annwilliams6438

    @annwilliams6438

    11 ай бұрын

    Not cool that the BBC would not even pay the hotel dues of their lower paid staff!

  • @jonathanpatrick8506

    @jonathanpatrick8506

    11 ай бұрын

    @@annwilliams6438 BBC crews were earning far above what the average wage of the time. In fact it's not cool of the crews to disappear very early in the mornings not paying when they knew they would get reimbursed in the first place.

  • @annwilliams6438

    @annwilliams6438

    11 ай бұрын

    @@jonathanpatrick8506 of course it wasn’t. I get the basis of the comment - I am making an additional observation - why were the BBC not paying for board and lodging for assignments away from home?

  • @neilgriffiths6427
    @neilgriffiths6427 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks, a great show - I feel educated :)

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @jakobgrimminger
    @jakobgrimminger Жыл бұрын

    I had the pleasure of chatting to Colin Bean about 20 years ago. He was a really nice fella and told me quite a bit about the cast's roles in the war. I have to say this was an interesting video, thanks

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing about Colin Bean

  • @robertcorradi8573
    @robertcorradi8573 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for this ..... A timeless masterpiece. An absolute classic which I can watch on repeat. Fantastic.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching and for commenting too

  • @judiprince7727
    @judiprince7727 Жыл бұрын

    Love watching it on BBC 2 on Saturdays

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @midnightroadstudios
    @midnightroadstudios Жыл бұрын

    Dad's army is the best!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    I totally agree with you 😊

  • @EsherAcademy
    @EsherAcademy Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Chris, great round-up of the Dad’s Army cast service record. It was a wonderful series and it is illuminating to realise how much of the characterisation must have come from their own experiences. Keep ‘em coming!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Will do. Thanks for your support.

  • @ronti2492
    @ronti2492 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks Chris, what a wonderful tribute you've created to a great generation. Thanks again!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @Arthur54321
    @Arthur54321 Жыл бұрын

    Well done Chap. I was noodling around on YT looking for something light and entertaining (in all this current horror) and boy did I get it. Brilliant presentation. The charachters always put a smile on my face and it is humbling (as a Vet myself) to understand what they contributed in WW1/WW2. My late uncle was a 17yo member of the Home Guard while doing his engineering apprenticeship at Camell Laird and of course the family joke was that Pike was created in his image. Great to know that other former service men from recent conflicts have found Dads Army "thereputic" (good on you lads)

  • @mariarusso3790

    @mariarusso3790

    Жыл бұрын

    Hi how are you doing. Have a nice Sunday 😊

  • @jeffbrooks8024

    @jeffbrooks8024

    Жыл бұрын

    Something light 8n that vein. Check out "It ain't half hot"

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment. Please make sure you subscribe to my channel.

  • @charlesxix
    @charlesxix Жыл бұрын

    Another great video, thanks.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure.

  • @diannehogarth3030
    @diannehogarth3030 Жыл бұрын

    I’ve loved this series. I’ve been watching Dads army since my early teens, and still catch the occasional one that I’ve missed in the repeats shown almost daily on TV. It is a testament to the series that they are all still loved and enjoyed 50 years later. Listening to this background history produced by Chris Green has given some wonderful insights into the actors and their counterparts in the real Home Guard. My grandad was too old to serve in WWll but he proudly joined his local Home Guard in Norwich . I just wish I had asked him more about it whilst he was alive. I’ll bet there were some wonderful stories. Thanks Chris!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My great uncle was in the Home Guard in Enfield. He certainly had some stories to tell.

  • @melbeeswax6087
    @melbeeswax6087 Жыл бұрын

    A great show. It proves that there is always a bit of humour to be found in everything.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment

  • @paulhayward8372
    @paulhayward83729 ай бұрын

    I was in tears at the end after what those brave and they were brave went through .It just reduced me to tears

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    9 ай бұрын

    Thanks for watching

  • @python27au
    @python27au Жыл бұрын

    One of my all time favourite shows.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @SimonAmazingClarke
    @SimonAmazingClarke Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely facinating. You have an easy listening voice and write interesting notes. I'd be interested to hear of other actors war time activities.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for your kind words. More videos about wartime experiences of actors in the pipeline including Richard Todd and Tommy Cooper.

  • @trooperdgb9722

    @trooperdgb9722

    Жыл бұрын

    @@TheHistoryChap Richard Todds story is a fascinating mix of fiction and fact interacting! He was a Lt in real life in the Para relief force to the Ox and Bucks at Pegasus Bridge (Benouville) on D-Day...and then played Maj John Howard (CO of that coup de main unit) in the movie The Longest Day! Fantastic!

  • @mariarusso3790

    @mariarusso3790

    Жыл бұрын

    Hi Simon how are you doing. Have a nice Sunday 😊

  • @dianecheney4141
    @dianecheney4141 Жыл бұрын

    I worked for an older lady whose husband became a radio operator on American bombers. By the time he got to England at the age of 40. She said all the crews called him Pops and she was the first person to use the phrase Dad’s War

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Interesting. Thanks for taking the time to post.

  • @timarmes2207
    @timarmes2207 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this Chris - it was enjoyable and brought back the nostalgia of watching Dad's Army. Also yes please to the battle of Sedgemoor including the'King's Drain', the wetlands & John Churchill. I think many people today only know it as a busy service station on the M5 on their way to Devon and Cornwall or towards Bristol, the Midlands and the M4. Thank you again for all the videos.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    I think you are right that most people link Sedgemoor to a service station (which isn't as good as South Gloucester!)

  • @markdavis2475
    @markdavis2475 Жыл бұрын

    What a lovely story told with clarity and enthusiasm! I watched Dad's Army in the 70s with my parents. Happy days!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed

  • @rogermolineux9741
    @rogermolineux9741 Жыл бұрын

    Co scriptwriters Jimmy Perry and David Croft, drew on their own experiences during WW2, especially Perry. It also must have brought back mixed memories for most of the cast and the many viewers. I believe the acting was much in line with their real characters, and Clive Dunn would ad lib his lines at times. Wonderful.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @wochee
    @wochee3 ай бұрын

    There is some excellent research here. My very sincere congratulations. I was particularly impressed by your finding the encounter between Ridley and Philby. Two more different individuals one could hardly imagine. Thank you.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Ай бұрын

    Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

  • @marylowrey8911
    @marylowrey891111 ай бұрын

    Strangely, this show had everything, and it’s content has kept it complicated fresh as we rewatch 60 years later…

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    11 ай бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts.

  • @gordonfrickers5592
    @gordonfrickers5592 Жыл бұрын

    Proper job, thank you History Chap.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching

  • @daniellebcooper7160
    @daniellebcooper7160 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for putting these pieces of history together.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching,.

  • @benkai09
    @benkai09 Жыл бұрын

    I'm so glai i got recommended your channel. You've made me appreciate Dads army and the cast behind it even more than i did. Heres to many more enjoyable episodes on many more interesting topics

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for your support

  • @aussieandy67
    @aussieandy679 ай бұрын

    Thankyou I really loved dad's army as a kid. Very interesting and entertaining presentation

  • @Fatherofheroesandheroines
    @Fatherofheroesandheroines Жыл бұрын

    Never did I think one of your videos would have even a small connection to Star Wars! Also I am not surprised the sergeant figured out that bolt trick. I was a sergeant and we looked for that kind of insanity lol.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed the link.

  • @jacquelinepaddock7535
    @jacquelinepaddock7535 Жыл бұрын

    My parents ( ex RAF) were avid fans of Dads Army and one of Mum's brothers was in the real Dad's Army, so I had to watch too, no complaints except ache ing ribs from laughing.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Ha ha. Thanks for sharing

  • @petermainwaringsx
    @petermainwaringsx Жыл бұрын

    Great series which was unmissable from the first episode. Thanks for the video.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure.

  • @ABC1701A
    @ABC1701A Жыл бұрын

    Reminds me of a story from when dad was in basic training [late 1940s], he and a couple of others decided to ''race'' three army trucks around the perimeter of the grounds - it used to be an air force base - on the perimeter road. All went well until they reached one bend which was rather more curved than the others and dad managed to overturn the lorry. Not too much of an issue - no damage and they were all confined to barracks with some extra punishment thrown in, namely cutting the lawn in front of the officers mess by hand with manicure scissors - until the officer discovered that dad didn't have his driver's licence. He actually came out a winner in that respect, he was told to report to the requisite office and had his driver's licence issued on the spot. Not certain that overturning an army lorry without a licence is the best way to gain said licence but it worked for dad. He and his mates were sent to REME as a result, probably the right choice as it happened.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Great way to get your licence and cheaper than current tests too!

  • @Thomo2461
    @Thomo2461 Жыл бұрын

    Amazing stories all who continued to serve in the field of entertainment to the benefit of us all. A great story preserving their history. Thanks Chris

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

  • @carlwilson6631
    @carlwilson6631 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for doing this. I watched your other videos relating to Dads Army and this wraps it up excellently. Born in 1964 I watched the original showings of this series with my family. At the time I found it quite funny but didn’t really understand much about it. Now in later years I re-watch it through the eyes of an amateur historian and its still nothing short of wonderful. I’m sure I’m not the only one who seriously appreciates the amount of research you put into this. I wonder how you feel about doing a similar format with the shows, It Ain’t Half hot Mum and Get Some In? I,m pretty sure you would please not only myself but a damn good number of others who watch this. Oh yeah, I subscribed too! Wouldn’t want to miss another posting. Good show major, jolly good show!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    A fair few requests for "It Aint Half Hot Mum", so watch this space!

  • @tacraling
    @tacraling9 ай бұрын

    Having seen your previous Dad's Army videos, I've finally got around to watching this one as well. Another excellent job! Many thanks.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    9 ай бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it

  • @shawngilliland243
    @shawngilliland243 Жыл бұрын

    @TheHistoryChap - Thanks very much for this! It's fun and entertaining and also helps to ensure that the memory of the wartime service of so many British men is kept alive. I'd say "yes" to videos from you on both the Battle of Sedgemoor and Lawrence of Arabia.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching and for your votes on future videos.

  • @andrewsteele7663
    @andrewsteele7663 Жыл бұрын

    Good morning, Chris [Oz time], This particular Dad's Army series has been brilliant. As a lad from England, I loved the Dad's Army series. I now have a couple of special edition DVD sets. Thank you again for another brilliant video. Cheers, I am off to get a coffee with a huge grin on my face.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad I have helped start your day with a smile 😀

  • @brendanhaley3668
    @brendanhaley3668 Жыл бұрын

    Great video. Lawrence of Arabia by yourself would be very welcomed! Your delivery and passion makes these topics come alive.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Very kind of you. I will add to the list.

  • @johntyfleming4581
    @johntyfleming45819 ай бұрын

    Totally enjoyed this and its always good to know history in its entirety....many thanks sir.....

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    9 ай бұрын

    My pleasure. Thanks for watching

  • @TheBrummie1960
    @TheBrummie196010 ай бұрын

    Absolutely fascinating presentation on such wonderful actors of the golden age of British comedy. Much appreciated!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    10 ай бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

  • @fenman1954
    @fenman1954 Жыл бұрын

    What a wonderful list of real life characters and their stories thank you.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure. Thank you for watching

  • @graemecatty9921
    @graemecatty9921 Жыл бұрын

    Great information Chris and presented in a most enjoyable style.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed.

  • @marklammas2465
    @marklammas2465 Жыл бұрын

    My grandfather, Thomas Malcolm Coates, survived WW1 France, being gassed, and he served in the Home Guard in WW2. He was active in amateur stage dramatics during his early life, and had a fine bass singing voice. He also played the fiddle. His brother George died at Gallipoli during WW1.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to share your family story.

  • @wizardofthenorth8352
    @wizardofthenorth8352 Жыл бұрын

    First time I've seen this channel and what a gem. Well researched and narrated - nothing too heavy and goes down well with a cup of tea and a good dose of nostalgia. Will enjoy viewing all the others. 🙂

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for finding my channel.

  • @simonhodgett4598
    @simonhodgett4598 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for this series: really fascinating to find out about the cast’s real life service history. And yes please to a video on the Battle of Sedgemoor too! I grew up in Westonzoyland, so I’ve always been aware of it: we celebrated the Tercentenary in a big way in 1985 and, to mark leaving the village primary school, we always went for a night-time walk up to the battlefield around the date of the anniversary. So looking forward to watching that- thanks!

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Simon, thanks for watching and for your vote for Sedgemoor.

  • @eveb446
    @eveb446 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for this most informative and interesting video about Dad's Army. We do appreciate all of your hard work to bring us all of this information, about such a great comedy written by great Jimmy Perry and David Croft.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.

  • @thepeskytraveller3870
    @thepeskytraveller3870 Жыл бұрын

    Still watching in 2023! Thank you for your service and great memories with this show.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching my video.

  • @Oscarspoem
    @Oscarspoem Жыл бұрын

    Love your videos. To me, it's the best one yet. My young life growing up on Dad's Army, I love it so. You do know Chris that they don’t like it up em. Thanks.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad you are enjoying. Thanks.

  • @boris8787
    @boris8787 Жыл бұрын

    As a young fellow I watched Dad's Army and enjoyed the show - now that I'm in my 60's I believe we are close to a major war again - and I actually hope that they will restart the Home Guard - and I certainly will join and defend dear old England. The Home Guard was used in the 1944 war movie set in the town of Chillingbourne. 🎥

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @Scots_Diesel
    @Scots_Diesel Жыл бұрын

    If you look on the shoulder patch of the dads army uniform you'll see the C platoon markings as C.P and many fans will tell you it stands for Croft and Perry.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Interesting. Thanks for sharing

  • @BillHalliwell
    @BillHalliwell Жыл бұрын

    G'day Chris, Thank you so much for this 'talk down memory lane'. The series, 'It Ain't Half Hot, Mum' and 'Dad's Army' were both on TV while I was in the RAAF. Of course, due to various duties I was unable to catch all the episodes but I can tell you they were hot favourites in all three Messes. I had joined so long ago now, that we still had a smattering of people who joined up, as young men during the last half of WW2 and had 'connived' to stay in for as long as they possibly could. They were our true role models even if, as one of them was, still a Corporal, whom we all suspected had 'lost his stripes' at some stage. We never asked, of course, because apart from role models they were, to us 'lads', real heroes. For the senior officers, it was slightly different, back then. They didn't adhere to the compulsory discharge date that applied to NCOs and other ranks. I remember our Senior Chaplain who wore a Pathfinders' badge on his Dress uniform, along with various WW2 campaign medals plus a few 'gongs' for bravery plus the D.F.C. He truly earned his respectful nickname of 'Sky Pilot'. When ever we tried to draw him out about his wartime service, he'd always modestly change the subject. Speaking of Burma, my uncle D'arcy was with the 2nd/40th Battalion, most of which had the great misfortune of being made POWs very soon after arriving in the S.E.A. theatre, their vehicles and heavy weapons being on another transport ship. D'arcy and many of his comrades were brutally tortured and abused by their Japanese and Korean guards. His prowess as an expert axeman from Tasmania he credited for his ultimate survival. He was deeply affected by his experiences but he maintained a bright outlook on life and I can remember him enjoying 'Dad's Army' for a short couple of years before he passed away. These personal memories made me seek out reruns of 'Dad's Army' and 'It Ain't Hot, Mum' whenever I could. Thanks again for this great video. Of course, I've subscribed to your channel and 'rang the bell'. Cheers, and all the best, Bill H. Tasmania.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Hi Bill, Thanks for sharing those memories and I'm glad that my video rang a few bells for you. By the way, the landlord in my village pub when I was a boy had been a pathfinder. He said that he was never scared of any raid but (as pub landlord) was slightly unnerved to see a ghost outside his pub in the 1970's!

  • @sarkybugger5009
    @sarkybugger5009 Жыл бұрын

    Sgt. Wilson was my favourite character. Some of his put downs were really top notch.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    If he was like that in the army I can see why he’s s sergeants shunted him off to officer selection centre!

  • @fus149hammer5
    @fus149hammer5 Жыл бұрын

    I found this absolutely fascinating. I knew about Arthur and John Le Mes because I've read their biographies and I knew something about Arnold's and John L's wartime experiences but this is still brilliant. John Le Mes's story about his enlistment can be beaten. Michael Bentine although obviously not of Dad's Army fame was actually arrested for desertion whilst on stage at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre by military police as he was on the move all the time with his troupe and didn't get his call up papers! Harry H Corbett was in the Royal Marines in the far east and after the japanese surrender much to his annoyance wasn't to be demobbed for quite some time. He was sent with a platoon to check that a small island believed to be the last hiding place of some japanese troops was either clear or that the defending enemy was willing to surrender. The answer was a banzai charge... Harry killed a number with his knife and bare hands. When his ship docked at a british base he had it away on his toes so to speak. He deserted. That experience must have haunted him till the end.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for taking the time to comment in such depth.

  • @davidwoods7720
    @davidwoods7720 Жыл бұрын

    awesome as always,thanks so much

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    My pleasure.

  • @stco2426
    @stco24269 ай бұрын

    Thanks for making and describing the threads in here.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    9 ай бұрын

    My pleasure thanks for watching

  • @stokiestewpotter7956
    @stokiestewpotter7956 Жыл бұрын

    A marvelous series,and even now having watched the series so many times,when it appears on TV,I can not resist watching again.

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    It it timeless (well, I think so anyway!)

  • @theupsetter1969
    @theupsetter1969 Жыл бұрын

    Maybe do one of these for Spike Milligan?

  • @TheHistoryChap

    @TheHistoryChap

    Жыл бұрын

    Great idea. Thanks for suggesting.