Obviously Jeremy is hilarious with James and Richard but I love it when he does these serious documentaries

@sadnanmamun1583

3 жыл бұрын

After all he is an intellectual

@BoHolbo

3 жыл бұрын

A friend Why not? I honestly don’t see the problem.. Perhaps YOU are the problem!? An act, or acts of bravery has absolutely nothing to do with one’s religious beliefs, or lack thereof!

@timwood9171

3 жыл бұрын

He needs to do more of this stuff and less of the others. He needs to move on....

@Embur12

3 жыл бұрын

Is there anything Jeremy can't do...another fantastic documentary!

@scoot155

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, no. Most of these facts are completely inaccurate.

"He never thought to mention it". sums up that great generation of men.

@speedibusrex

3 жыл бұрын

@Why Not Just a flesh wound.

@totall2952

3 жыл бұрын

I agree well said

@sonampaldensherpa

3 жыл бұрын

It’s the British thing to do. Boasting is an American thing. Being humble is the British thing to do.

@billisaac326

3 жыл бұрын

@@sonampaldensherpa Spiteful little remark not at all British.

@roybennett6330

3 жыл бұрын

I guess it was the nature ,and times of the man.and he shaved after to look like an officer, where he got the razor from God knows

I lived in Arnhem all my life, currently in Oosterbeek where this story took place. Im from 1991, I walked the Airbourne event in september 25 times now (got 5 medals) and my grandma worked at the Airbourne museum for 50+ years as volunteer and been royally crowned for it. In this town, stories like theres will NEVER be forgotten, Americans, British, Canadian and Polish (and other) veterans will always be remembered and welcomed with us. (Yes, also from the German side) to remember together. I walk daily with my dogs near a deep ditch in the forest called the pit of hell, its where a handfull of allied soldiers that were ambushed, have taken cover, and fought off german fire for over 36 hours, and won. There are so many untold warstories all over the world, heroes who will never be heard. Lest we forget.

@CandidaRosa889

2 ай бұрын

Amazing thanks for sharing

@arnoldphelops5619

2 ай бұрын

8

@davefellhoelter1343

Ай бұрын

grew up with these men as my family, teachers. bosses, buddies, and Good Friends. RIP GREATEST! "I Love You" miss you! Sorry We let this world you sacrificed and paid for go so Dark for so cheap, not a fight, nothing.

@colinthomas5462

21 күн бұрын

​@@davefellhoelter1343 Yes sadly very true..

@Tula-cs1ef

14 күн бұрын

My great grandfather was a veteran of WW2 and I asked him about how he felt about German veterans. "At the time I said (kill them), but now I'd say Im still sore about them but I still say @#*k the government" translated from 1940s angry old Italian man.

A marketgarden veteran once told me : "it was not a bridge to far, it was to far from the fucking bridge "

@TheDaverobinson

3 жыл бұрын

what did he mean?

@imnotgivingmynametou

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheDaverobinson that they were too far from the bridge.

@daispy101

3 жыл бұрын

​@@TheDaverobinson the landing zones were too far from the bridge, subsequent reinforcements were dropped closer but by then, the Germans were alerts and prepared for them (witness the massacre of the Polish airborne division dropped in support, right into the Germans). There is also the issue of the intel on the SS Panzer division being ignored because the mission was planned out and advanced by the time they were spotted by reconnaissance. Essentially, the brass decided to go anyway, believing the 2nd army would get there, despite the obvious issues.

@drunkensailor112

3 жыл бұрын

Too and too. Not to

@johankorten2797

3 жыл бұрын

The bridge you see in the footage is most of the time what is now the Nelson Mandela bridge. The John Frost bridge is (seen from Oosterbeek) even beyond that one. It is 6-7 km from Oosterbeek, so indeed the bridge was even further away.

"He never thought to mention it" That was outstandingly presented. Standing applause Jeremy.

@davefellhoelter1343

Ай бұрын

AMEN! Greatest!

Jeremy talked about John Cruickshank the Catalina pilot who won the VC so I looked it up and much to my amazement he's still alive and in 7 days time he celebrates his 100th birthday wow,I seriously hope he's not alone and there are despite the coronavirus,family and people close by to him

@georginagedroge4405

3 жыл бұрын

yes, the last VC winner of WW2 I believe.

@kb4777

3 жыл бұрын

Shall we buy him a birthday drink ? How do we do it ?

@MyScubasteve

3 жыл бұрын

where is this man?

@MyScubasteve

3 жыл бұрын

bbc emailed!

@kb4777

3 жыл бұрын

@@MyScubasteve Excellent work. Lets get this rolling.

Jeremy has such a good voice for things like this, and he's always been a huge history buff. He's often accused of being an idiot or insensitive but he has a huge amount of respect for people like this and as far as I've seen in his private life he's a pretty good person.

@iabusemyfish

2 жыл бұрын

@ThePatUltra where did you get the information he was a pole? as far as i can see the guy he punched was irish (Oisin Tymon)

@tessSGS

Жыл бұрын

@ThePatUltra You still haven't corrected it.

@alexrobertson1472

Жыл бұрын

@ThePatUltra They dont care about that though, the wokeys will happily ignore all facts just to chastise someone that doesnt agree with their lunacy.

@CheeseyMilkshakes

Жыл бұрын

@@spencerbissett3417 Don’t forget calling for a woman to be pelted in shit walking through the streets naked for the apparent crime of being black and American

@david-spliso1928

Жыл бұрын

@@guntherleafy9046 Mexicans ought to grow a better sense of humour. The other way round and British people just laugh at it. Not insecure, self deprecating, with nothing to prove. So many people don't need to be so easily offended at some jocular ribbing. Btw it was actually Hammond and May that joked about the Mexicans on that occasion. Clarkson hardly said anything, lol.

I watch this probably once a month and still get goosebumps every time Jeremy mentions the street in Canada with 3 Victoria Cross winners. The street in Winnipeg used to be called Pine Street but was renamed to Valour Road in honor of the 3 men who all won their VC's during WW1, 2 of them posthumously.

@murray7584

9 ай бұрын

The Canadians are well renowned the world over for their prowess. Love ‘em

@gfys756

9 ай бұрын

@@murray7584 Canadians tend to be cool.

@asicdathens

6 ай бұрын

You don't win medals. They are awarded. The recipient earned them

who'd have thought that Jeremy Clarkson's father in law would be a bearer of the Victoria Cross; and he never even thought to mention it, that is what you call humble.

@servicarrider

4 жыл бұрын

Because we all know what a humble man Jezza is?

@Frostfly

4 жыл бұрын

Ex-father in law at this point.

@DC-te1gw

3 жыл бұрын

@MrBadabimBadabum The way it was phrased, was directed at Jezza, not the father in law. Did you ever " learnt" how to spell in your own native language? ​

@garrybaldy327

3 жыл бұрын

@MrBadabimBadabum "Do you even learnt how to read" 😂😂😂😂😂

@gromit3315

3 жыл бұрын

Nikko Jim, JC probably didn't even know what a Victoria Cross was.

There have been 4 VCs awarded to British soldiers since this documentary was filmed. Pvt Johnson Beharry VC. Princess of Wales Royal Regiment, Iraq 2004. (Awarded in 2005) Cpl Bryan Budd VC. Parachute Regiment, Afghanistan 2006. (Awarded posthumously) L/Cpl James Ashworth VC. Grenadier Guards, Afghanistan 2012. (Awarded posthumously) L/Cpl Joshua Leakey VC. Parachute Regiment, Afghanistan 2013. (Awarded in 2015)

@kwerk2011

3 жыл бұрын

In addition, there have been 5 Commonwealth recipients, Willie Apiata VC, New Zealand Special Air Service, Afghanistan 2007 Mark Donaldson VC, Australian Special Air Service Regiment, Afghanistan 2009 Ben Roberts-Smith VC, Australian Special Air Service Regiment, Afghanistan 2011 Daniel Keighran VC, 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, Afghanistan 2012 Cameron Baird VC, Australian 2nd Commando Regiment, Afghanistan 2013 (Awarded posthumously)

@adrianbalboa5353

3 жыл бұрын

Lets hope no more Victoria Crosses are ever awarded again

@DamnedDave

3 жыл бұрын

@@kwerk2011 thankyou for this they should be known to us all those that put their lives on the line so we can live our lives in freedom

@kennethkennethson4289

3 жыл бұрын

@@adrianbalboa5353 why?

@OGbobkine

3 жыл бұрын

@@kennethkennethson4289 To be awarded a medal of war means young men and women on both sides would have died.

As an American, I wish more of my countrymen would get out of their world and see the rest of the world. I enjoyed this because I got to see WWII from the British perspective. Thank you.

@matthewcullen1298

3 жыл бұрын

Good on ya mate.😀that bloody awesome. Sadly I see so many nasty back and forth uneducated comments by people who've spent 5 seconds watch KZread videos on the subject. I've been reading books and watching documentaries for 32 years on modern war history. The more I learn the more I realise how little I really understand. There were so many brave men from so many countries. Sadly so much suffering by millions upon millions. It has really made me appreciate my beautiful peaceful home in australia.its also made me realise how very bad others have it.

@matthewcullen1298

3 жыл бұрын

Hope you have a great Christmas mate. Really hope you and your family are doing ok with this terrible virus going around the world.

@AverageAlien

3 жыл бұрын

wow I didn't even now you could see WW2 without a british perspective. What? The british were one of the most important in the war!

@grizzlynad

3 жыл бұрын

in which case, never watch U-571, it's the most atrocious Hollywood rewriting of history lol

@jennyhardman5494

3 жыл бұрын

My grandmother who was a nurse in france during WW1, married an american serviceman in 1918! He abandoned her with 4 children in 1923, they returned to Britain in 1926, having been granted a divorce she married my grandfather in 1933, had another 2 daughters! All 3 of her sons joined the British army, 1 joined the infantry, 2 joined the parachute regiment! 1 fought at Arnhem the other had been transferred to the SAS! All 3 survived the war!

Its ALWAYS worth reminding ourselves of just how incredibly rare a V.C is, and how incredibly brave the V.C recipients are.

Jeremy Clarkson is honestly a story teller masterclass. Such simple actions/movements and shots give these historical scenes such depth and meaning.

@moss8448

3 жыл бұрын

👍

@chrisjohnston3409

3 жыл бұрын

I completely agree, I do hope to see him again on television, perhaps presenting on historical documentaries, particularly on conflict - you can see his flair and interest in history... it was the same on top gear when he would tell the story of various manufacturers, Saab, Jag etc etc

This is 17yrs old? What a great documentary.

@TT-wh6mu

3 жыл бұрын

I thougt it was from now. The quality of the video is extremly good if it 17 years old

@billenright2788

3 жыл бұрын

@@TT-wh6mu Made in '03

@TT-wh6mu

3 жыл бұрын

@@billenright2788 ok

@samrodian919

3 жыл бұрын

@@TT-wh6mu look at Jeremy's mullet lol that tells you how old it is lol he's grey now with a lot less hair !

"On that bombshell, it's time to end," seems appropriate with that ending.

@adamlubliner2882

3 жыл бұрын

And to anyone who thinks this comment is offensive or inappropriate, either watch the full video or skip to 55:30 for Jeremy's last statement. Then watch Top Gear.

Americans seem to go to great lengths to honour and respect their vets. Even the simple 'Thank you for your service' to a stranger. I wish we did more of that on this side of the Atlantic.

@stkfc7440

3 жыл бұрын

We were raised to not mention or ask about the wars at all to veterans in Australia unless its ANZAC day and even then its not really o.k. Its an old custom from WW1 that hasn't changed much.

@rabhughes7840

3 жыл бұрын

@@stkfc7440 yeah i would agree with that , i also found speaking to my father and uncle they found it hard to speak about when asked so nobody forces it

@BeKindToBirds

2 жыл бұрын

As an American Veteran I will say that that respect is a kind of shield from the rest. People say it but are ghastly afraid of any interaction past that. It is a kind of cover for a blind spot. Hearing Vets of Vietnam talk vs Gulf or Korea or Iraq/Afghanistan... It is hiding a much darker truth and excusing the citizen of further guilt. Everything after that phrase is met with the greatest discomfort and horror. Because as far as the government is concerned, you are on your own and must fight for your life alone after that. And the people who work and volunteer at the VA are beyond overworked. One of the wisest and most helpful things I learned from those who served before me: "The VA is designed to kill people"

Having met with and spoken to Keith Payne VC was a great honour, what was both amazing and horrifying was that the Australian Department of Veterans Affairs refused to give him a pention for PTSD because as they reasoned "You are a VC winner, you cannot have PTSD because you're a hero" The Australian government refused him the support he deserved because of his extraordinary bravery.

@basmca1

2 жыл бұрын

That's discusting!

@BeKindToBirds

2 жыл бұрын

Horrible. God will judge them.

@graemejohnson4388

Жыл бұрын

I am afraid the Australian Defence force and in particular the Veterans affairs department is a real crock of shit when it comes to claims. The DVA is staffed mainly by public servants who would not know how to hold a bloody rifle let alone go to war and it seems to me that they have a quota to decline a certain number. Things are changing slowly but not fast enough. I was in three different confrontations but I always said that the lads coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan will present with a different and very serious set of issues because although we were away in one or other war zone for periods from one to two years these lads were being sent back up to 16 times, the deployments were shorter but the coming and going not knowing if they would get back would have played terribly on their minds. The pity of war!!!

@moaningpheromones

6 ай бұрын

Should've at least got ten year's worth of VB. Struth.

@K8E666

5 ай бұрын

Let’s not wait for ‘god’ to judge them - just in case you’re wrong about that, we’ll judge them NOW. It’s completely disgusting and hopefully wouldn’t happen today as PTSD, especially from significant trauma during war and civilian life is better recognised today. And just because you have PTSD from seeing your friends killed brutally beside you, and you then display a bravery and valour that’s virtually unprecedented, receiving YOUR VC - the HIGHEST medal for valour available to a soldier in the Commonwealth (and the world), doesn’t mean you can’t suffer from PTSD for the rest of your life from the incident. Audie Murphy, the most highly decorated soldier in American history (Medal of Honour, Distinguished Service Cross x 2, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart x 3, Legion of Honour, silver star x 2, bronze star, Croix de Guerre with star and 3 with Palm from France) certainly suffered from PTSD until his untimely death in a plane crash after he’d become an Actor - playing himself in his autobiography/film - ‘To Hell and Back’. He always said that the greatest day in the war was being on a train headed to the Riviera on recuperation leave and being told that the war in Europe was OVER. The radio interviewer expected him to say getting the Medal of Honour but that simply wasn’t it, he’d lost too many friends and suffered from PTSD so the news that the war was over was the most welcome news ever for him… There are more Medal of Honour recipients, 3125 to date, than VC recipients, 1358 to date. The US is a country of 300 million people, but the Commonwealth is made up of 2.5 billion people, so VC’s are FAR rarer and harder to achieve, taking nothing away from Medal of Honour recipients AT ALL. To not give a VC recipient the help he deserved because “you’re too brave to have PTSD” is AWFUL Australia and you need to sort yourself out.

Utter goosebumps when he said his daughter only found out he won the VC after he died. What a bloke he was! And the fact JC married his daughter was a little special too, the documentary was a great commemoration for the VC awardees who those majority of people don't know about.

@areyouundoingthatorwhat9181

3 жыл бұрын

It happens quite a bit,an old guy passed away in our village when I was about 13-14, a quiet private man,who told nearly his entire family that his trade as a senior shipping clerk took him through the war,his brother and some of his old service buddies presented his uniforms,medals and other relevant stuff to his children after the funeral and revealed his true story.This was the first anyone knew.word soon got round the village and everyone was gobsmacked to learn what this kind,unassuming man had achieved and overcome.some of the stories overheard by us children gave the impression of someone who in a hand to hand combat situation wouldn't think twice about biting a gerrys ears off!,it proves that you should never assume,how many of us have parents and grandparents that led a life back then only known to themselves? Many take it to their grave.

Jeremy, I know this doc is now quite old but it doesn’t change the fact that this is perhaps your finest work. Your closing statement left me stunned, and to us mere mortals the bravery shown by all recipients mentioned in this doc brought tears to my eyes

The first and only VC awarded to a member of the RAN (as at 25 Apr 2021) was recently awarded to Ordinary Seaman Edward "Teddy" Sheen VC who ignored the abandon ship order and remaining alone on his sinking ship firing the AA gun at the enemy aeroplanes over Darwin Harbour in 1942 to help save others. This brave very young Tasmanian went down with the ship.

@thedrunkencookmostly714

Ай бұрын

I remember this. I watched the event they held for him.

"Hero" is the most abused word today. This word is most deserving to those who truly do things worthy of this word.

@martinconnerty9048

3 жыл бұрын

Well said. Totally agree with you.

@mdobson3869

3 жыл бұрын

@ZNAMDEMONA1 you seem to be forgetting the thousands of your fellow country men that gave their lives willingly for us yes we abandoned you but at that time in the war NO one could stand against the German's and by talking like that your dishonouring the memories of the 750 polish heroes that made the heroic last stand against 46,000 German's at Wizna

@_Daio_

3 жыл бұрын

@ZNAMDEMONA1 Get back to your Minecraft little boy, What did you do to save your Polish women and children?

@mdobson3869

3 жыл бұрын

@ZNAMDEMONA1 I know a lot of your history you've always fought for your freedom from the early years after meisko 1 first United all the polan tribes in to one nation all the way through 1410 battle of grunwald, 1610 the glorious victory at kircholm, 1683 seige of Vienna and many other great victories usually against huge odds and lead by great leaders I love your country and its very interesting history

@mdobson3869

3 жыл бұрын

A proud noble nation

That last bit that was said in the narration particularly struck a chord with me. Although he never served at Arnhem, nor did he win a VC, it reminded me of my late Grandfather. I didn't know that he served a supporting role in the D-day landings until after he died in 2016. He, in his own small way contributed to the freedom of those who were under occupation at the time. I knew he served in the navy from his navy issue tatoo, but I didn't know he contributed to one of the most significant moments of the war. It made me think, "what horrors did he see that he never thought to mention?"

@mr2tuner136

3 жыл бұрын

same here man. had 2 of them that was in ww2 one a b-17 pilot over germany for the usaaf. The other a destroyer crewman in the pacific. Never met the one who was the pilot. The other i didn't know about his service until after he passed found out about it through an obituary while serving in the usaf at Dover afb with the 436 amxs around 2008. (my service time was 2006-2012). Never knew until it was too late.

@stuartphilips5008

Жыл бұрын

Well they didn’t bother showing the LAST part. Major Cain was Jeremy’s wife’s Father !!!! That’s the whole point and this channel missed the ending 🤦🏼‍♂️

He might fool around a bit on Top Gear or the Grand Tour, but given a serious subject like this and he absolutely nails it.

I watched this in February 2021 and I have several comments to make. Firstly I’m an ex Australian soldier. I’m a Top Gear / The Grand Tour fan. I’m a lover of history, especially military history so this documentary is right up my alley. First off, I disapprove of the term “win” when it comes to the VC. A soldier is “awarded” the medal, they don’t “win” it. It’s not a competition, but I can let that one go through to the keeper! Secondly, I’ve often wondered why Jeremey has such an affiliation to the military. I now know. To live in the shadow of such men must be a truly humbling experience. Well done Jeremey Clarkson!👍. And to the 300 that gave thumbs down to this documentary, may the Hounds of Hell urinate on you from a great height!🖕🖕🖕

-Fun- Interesting fact: The most recent VC winner was Joshua Leakey for his part in a joint UK-US raid in Afghanistan in 2013. The offical citation of his VC: "Between May and December 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey was deployed in Afghanistan as a member of a Task Force conducting operations to disrupt insurgent safe-havens and protect the main operating base in Helmand province. The majority of operations took place in daylight in non-permissive areas, attracting significant risk. On the 22nd August 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey deployed on a combined UK / US assault led by the United States Marine Corps into a Taliban stronghold to disrupt a key insurgent group. After dismounting from their helicopters, the force came under accurate machine gun and rocket propelled grenades fire resulting in the Command Group being pinned down on the exposed forward slope of a hill. The team attempted to extract from the killing zone for an hour, their efforts resulting in a Marine Corps Captain being shot and wounded and their communications being put out of action. Lance Corporal Leakey, positioned on the lee of the hill, realising the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed across a large area of barren hillside which was now being raked with machine gun fire. As he crested the hill, the full severity of the situation became apparent: approximately twenty enemy had surrounded two friendly machine gun teams and a mortar section rendering their critical fire support ineffective. Undeterred by the very clear and present danger, Lance Corporal Leakey moved down the forward slope of the hill, and gave first aid to the wounded officer. Despite being the most junior commander in the area, Lance Corporal Leakey took control of the situation and initiated the casualty evacuation. Realising that the initiative was still in the hands of the enemy, he set off back up the hill, still under enemy fire, to get one of the suppressed machine guns into action. On reaching it, and with rounds impacting on the frame of the gun itself, he moved it to another position and began engaging the enemy. This courageous action spurred those around him back into the fight; nonetheless, the weight of enemy fire continued. For the third time and with full knowledge of the extant dangers, Lance Corporal Leakey exposed himself to enemy fire once more. Weighed down by over 60 lbs of equipment, he ran to the bottom of the hill, picked up the second machine gun and climbed back up the hill again: a round trip of more than 200 metres on steep terrain. Drawing the majority of the enemy fire, with rounds splashing around him, Lance Corporal Leakey overcame his fatigue to re-site the gun and return fire. This proved to be the turning point. Inspired by Lance Corporal Leakey's actions, and with a heavy weight of fire now at their disposal, the force began to fight back with renewed ferocity. Having regained the initiative, Lance Corporal Leakey handed over the machine gun and led the extraction of the wounded officer to a point from which he could be safely evacuated. During the assault 11 insurgents were killed and 4 wounded, but the weight of enemy fire had effectively pinned down the command team. Displaying gritty leadership well above that expected of his rank, Lance Corporal Leakey's actions single-handedly regained the initiative and prevented considerable loss of life, allowing a wounded US Marine officer to be evacuated." He's not even the first member of his family to be awarded the VC. His second cousin twice removed, Nigel Leakey, was posthumously awarded it during WWII.

@BoHolbo

3 жыл бұрын

RodriguezRacer 456 I wouldn’t exactly call it “fun.” But I’m sure you didn’t mean anything negative by it. Cheers A Viking Veteran.

@rodriguezracer4567

3 жыл бұрын

@@BoHolbo Yeah it isn't "fun" Maybe "interesting" would've been a better word.

@michaelcirstean9337

3 жыл бұрын

RodriguezRacer 456 gvcXbffgxZVJNBUUHHHBBHHJHGJJJJJHHHBGYFGIIJHBDDADXC NLKKIJHBVBJGVFHKKKPOJGWXDSSDSFXVGXFB. XFNCVDFGGFFDR.JNVFBBBBHGGGGGGGVDDDEEWDVM KTFrederedc. Zzzaasnjnnaaaaawwwwwwwgggh(hdvdtsdhyr

@BoHolbo

3 жыл бұрын

Michael Cirstean You’re a right genius aren’t you? 🙄

@JamesSmith-lz1xu

3 жыл бұрын

@@michaelcirstean9337 new typwriter ?

I remember seeing this years ago on TV, one of the best thing to have never been repeated, thanks for uploading it

@winkerr2338

4 жыл бұрын

Yes, this and all of Clarkson's "real" documentaries are outstanding.

@RobRandomVids

3 жыл бұрын

@@winkerr2338 "Inventions That Changed The World" is a brilliant series

@winkerr2338

3 жыл бұрын

@@RobRandomVids I enjoyed that too. I'll have to find that to watch it again... see if it has stood the test of time.

@RobRandomVids

3 жыл бұрын

@@winkerr2338 The episode covering the invention of the computer is definitely here on KZread, I watched it myself not long ago. Not sure about the other episodes though, I think the gun episode may also be on here.

@aa-kv2pq

3 жыл бұрын

I'm sure there was one about a 2nd world war convoy that I would love to re watch but cant find anywhere

A fantastic documentary, I couldn't stop watching it! He never even told his daughter he had won the VC! Amazing! My father in law survived 30 missions as a tail gunner and navigator in a Lancaster but never spoke of it!

Superbly said, Jeremy. 'The highest medal for galantry in the world'.

Simply one of the finest documentaries ever made. Enough said.

@jrbdoebd8553

3 жыл бұрын

Fun Interesting fact: The most recent VC winner was Joshua Leakey for his part in a joint UK-US raid in Afghanistan in 2013. The offical citation of his VC: "Between May and December 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey was deployed in Afghanistan as a member of a Task Force conducting operations to disrupt insurgent safe-havens and protect the main operating base in Helmand province. The majority of operations took place in daylight in non-permissive areas, attracting significant risk. On the 22nd August 2013, Lance Corporal Leakey deployed on a combined UK / US assault led by the United States Marine Corps into a Taliban stronghold to disrupt a key insurgent group. After dismounting from their helicopters, the force came under accurate machine gun and rocket propelled grenades fire resulting in the Command Group being pinned down on the exposed forward slope of a hill. The team attempted to extract from the killing zone for an hour, their efforts resulting in a Marine Corps Captain being shot and wounded and their communications being put out of action. Lance Corporal Leakey, positioned on the lee of the hill, realising the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, dashed across a large area of barren hillside which was now being raked with machine gun fire. As he crested the hill, the full severity of the situation became apparent: approximately twenty enemy had surrounded two friendly machine gun teams and a mortar section rendering their critical fire support ineffective. Undeterred by the very clear and present danger, Lance Corporal Leakey moved down the forward slope of the hill, and gave first aid to the wounded officer. Despite being the most junior commander in the area, Lance Corporal Leakey took control of the situation and initiated the casualty evacuation. Realising that the initiative was still in the hands of the enemy, he set off back up the hill, still under enemy fire, to get one of the suppressed machine guns into action. On reaching it, and with rounds impacting on the frame of the gun itself, he moved it to another position and began engaging the enemy. This courageous action spurred those around him back into the fight; nonetheless, the weight of enemy fire continued. For the third time and with full knowledge of the extant dangers, Lance Corporal Leakey exposed himself to enemy fire once more. Weighed down by over 60 lbs of equipment, he ran to the bottom of the hill, picked up the second machine gun and climbed back up the hill again: a round trip of more than 200 metres on steep terrain. Drawing the majority of the enemy fire, with rounds splashing around him, Lance Corporal Leakey overcame his fatigue to re-site the gun and return fire. This proved to be the turning point. Inspired by Lance Corporal Leakey's actions, and with a heavy weight of fire now at their disposal, the force began to fight back with renewed ferocity. Having regained the initiative, Lance Corporal Leakey handed over the machine gun and led the extraction of the wounded officer to a point from which he could be safely evacuated. During the assault 11 insurgents were killed and 4 wounded, but the weight of enemy fire had effectively pinned down the command team. Displaying gritty leadership well above that expected of his rank, Lance Corporal Leakey's actions single-handedly regained the initiative and prevented considerable loss of life, allowing a wounded US Marine officer to be evacuated." He's not even the first member of his family to be awarded the VC. His second cousin twice removed, Nigel Leakey, was posthumously awarded it during WWII.

@samrodian919

3 жыл бұрын

@@jrbdoebd8553 well thank God this VC was not awarded posthumously..

This. Or The greatest raid, could be Clarksons finest work. Awesome film.

@Suprahampton

3 жыл бұрын

PQ17 & Isambard Kingdom Brunel are also contenders

Victoria Cross ... Medal of Honor ... Not one as been awarded to a man that thought he deserved it. And that is in itself bespeaks of a man that is indeed a hero.

Jermey needs to do more of these history programs. So say we all!

The use of the word 'awesome' is actually accurate in this context. Truly humbled by this individual description which is so emblematic of persistent and thoughtful courage throughout the ages. Brilliantly told by Clarkson. Definitely his forte.

@al488j

3 жыл бұрын

Any VC citation is an awesome read.

More clarkson documentaries please

@Suprahampton

3 жыл бұрын

There's 3 others I'd recommend, PQ17, Greatest raid of all, Isambard Kingdom Brunel

@clarkscat9386

3 жыл бұрын

@@Suprahampton hmmm I will check those out thanks for the suggestion

@yjypyyj298

3 жыл бұрын

Jeremy talked about John Cruickshank the Catalina pilot who won the VC so I looked it up and much to my amazement he's still alive and in 7 days time he celebrates his 100th birthday wow,I seriously hope he's not alone and there are despite the coronavirus,family and people close by to him

@Suprahampton

3 жыл бұрын

@@yjypyyj298 He turned 100 in May

That's one of the powerfullest closing statements on any documentary I've watched

@moaningpheromones

6 ай бұрын

very powerfullest

Robert must be a absolute mad lad. He hasn't slept, ate or drank for 4 days yet he loaded something that needed 2 men. Insane

@ifv2089

6 ай бұрын

Absolute Legend 💯

There are heroic people alive today. In every generation, there are people who when called upon, will do extraordinary, selfless, honorable things and you will never know their names. It's in their bones.

@Justiceforpets

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, hero’s walk silently among us everyday. They don’t talk loudly, or show off. Hero’s that inspire me more than anything else in the world, are humble, kind to animals, gentle and meek at home as well as dealings and interactions in public.

@drmcscroogle240

3 жыл бұрын

They say that heroes aren't born, they're exposed

Clarkson at his best, please Jeremy do some more.

@karenblackadder1183

3 жыл бұрын

Especially a one on HMS Warspite.

@nummerfinfeable

3 жыл бұрын

@@karenblackadder1183 interesting subject! i have a letter opener made from wood which was once the captains table after she was broke up for scrap.

@Suprahampton

3 жыл бұрын

He's done PQ17, Greatest raid of all & Isambard Kingdom Brunel

This carries an even more important message about soldiers in general - they're just human. They don't want praise, or to be constantly reminded of what they did. Treat them well, give them support, and may they live the best damn lives they can, cause they've fucking earned it.

@DavidHayward-uu9ts

Ай бұрын

Has any woman received a VC

Just been to Arnhem. My Grandad was captured there. What a story, well told.

Lt George Burdon McKean was awarded a VC in 1918. He was born in the small town where I live. A memorial sculpture was unveiled a couple of years ago. Brave men, all of them.

@broadsword0072

3 жыл бұрын

hope the Beggas don't tear it down, scum BLM who actually don't matter.

I have a relative who was awarded the VC at Rorke's drift, and if family history is to be believed then he falls under Clarkson's category of rouges and scoundrels.

@mig25foxbat

3 жыл бұрын

You can't leave it at that - what's the story!

@harkinsclark1417

3 жыл бұрын

@@mig25foxbat Google Private Frederick Hitch

@smitbar11

3 жыл бұрын

@@harkinsclark1417 en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Hitch

@1967Rev

3 жыл бұрын

Harkin....thats my surname,via Derry,greetings

i have to say "the Greatest Raid of All" is truly one of the most enjoyable documentaries I have ever watched.

I like how the VC isn’t awarded for like “well done, you killed loads of the enemy!” It’s awarded for you acting in a way that’ll will most likely lead to your death, but will benefit the squad/platoon/company as a whole. That’s true bravery, not just “I ran into enemy lines and killed loads of them” in the sake of seeking glory.

@jackthorton10

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed... to those who ran in and did the unthinkable for those of the unknowing of the fate that lay ahead...

@mgytitanic1912

3 жыл бұрын

That's the thing. A lot of those men acted in the way they saw fit. Friends and comrades were being killed. How do I stop that? Later when they realised what it was they'd done a lot of reaction was along the lines of "Bloody hell, I ran up to those machine gun nests? I must have been mad"

@julesslim8229

2 жыл бұрын

I'm sure you didn't mean to phrase the end as you did, that running into fire is for the sake of seeking glory, perhaps for self serving purposes. But your primary point is well taken. Personally, I'm not sure how to distinguish the two. Why else would one run into fire but for the sake of others?

Those three Canadians (Leo Clarke, Robert Shankland, and Frederick Hall) from the same street were from my hometown of Winnipeg on a street originally called Pine Street. In their honour, the street was renamed to Valour Road in 1925.

@SunnieSnell

3 жыл бұрын

Nice

@TheRealUnconnected

3 жыл бұрын

Thats one way of keeping up with the joneses. 'you hear bloody clarkey from number 14's won a victoria cross, better get a wriggle on aye'

@PsilocybinCocktail

3 жыл бұрын

Canadians - the British Empire's secret weapon!

@stephenburgess5109

3 жыл бұрын

Mike Smith Did the Canadian Parliaments Master at Arms receive a VC in protecting the Parliament by killing the terrorist involved in the attack .

@trevorbetts6432

3 жыл бұрын

I am from the South East Coast England, I remember my dad telling me about the Canadians camped around hear during ww2 I cannot remember the battle that they were in, I think it was Norway,, they ended up having very bad casualties,, dad said everyone of them lads deserved a VC,,

"He never thought to mention it" so glad you did Mr Clarkson, thank you

Holy Snickeys, Clarkson was his son in law.....Jeremy is a Gemstone to British documentaries of History. I love this show.

"had his leg blown off and removed it as it jammed the controls"

Absolutely amazing. From a Canadian

@markydj416

3 жыл бұрын

we forgive you

I've just watched this and am in tears, I can't write anymore at the moment as I'm in awe of all the selflessness of those men. Clarkson you have done them proud.

I love that Jeremy, who jokes around and pokes fun at a lot of things, is presenting this. No jokes, no kidding around, it really shows the administration he has for these great men.

The sound going down on two separate occasions ruined a brilliant film...well done!

So glad this popped up in my recommended. This was one of the best documentaries I’ve seen in a long time.

Jeremy, ffs keep doing this kind of documentary, it's a masterclass series and you're a natural for it. (What an absolute gem the lady Ms. Didy Grahame is).

A masterclass of a documentary. Great storytelling and presenting from Clarkson - even though I’m a massive Top Gear fan this is certainly his finest work/journalism. What a story. It makes me put all the problems in my life into perspective. if I was in Robert Cains shoes I would’ve got out of there as soon as possible; the bravery he demonstrated was simply unbelievable. A mindset that completely disregarded surrender, retreat or self-preservation and just focused on getting the job done no matter what it took. This documentary has made me re-define the term ‘hero’. The VC winners, and indeed all the soldiers who fought, were TRUE heroes and should never be forgotten for the sacrifices they made for us. Thank you lads

Jeremy Clarkson is a FANTASTIC documentary presenter.

I often come back to this documentary. The courage and example that the VC recipients set is extraordinary.

Wish he would do more documentaries as I think he is brilliant and doing them.

@espenpettersen5272

3 жыл бұрын

He also did one of PQ17. On PBS kzread.info/dash/bejne/lqKKvNKPhcjclKw.html thepiratebay.asia/torrent/9443036/BBC_PQ17_An_Arctic_Convoy_Disaster_720p_x264_AAC_HDTV

@brooky182

3 жыл бұрын

Watched the raid video but the link to the second is just a minute long?

@DC-te1gw

3 жыл бұрын

You do realize documentaries are what he does, right? His profession, as stated by him, is a documentary journalist. Did you think he was a chief, or an olympic swimmer? 😂

@karenblackadder1183

3 жыл бұрын

@@DC-te1gw Lots of people think he just messed about on Top Gear. @Jeremy Clarkson is the Sir David Attenborough of documentaries of WW11.

@DC-te1gw

3 жыл бұрын

@@karenblackadder1183 I did love him on Top Gear. The three of them had so much personality together

I'm a civvie from the States, but wow. My hat is off to these men.

I've watched this and the Greatest Raid about 10 times in total. Such excellent programming.

@darkwarrior6465

3 жыл бұрын

One he does about the Arctic convoys is good aswell

@karenblackadder1183

3 жыл бұрын

@@darkwarrior6465 @jimsy Clarkson's documentary of Arctic Convoy PQ 17 is superb. Would love to put the disparaging snowflakes in these comments on a ship following the route of the Arctic Convoys. Even without the threat of constant death, they'd probably be screaming for their mothers within 2 days.

@Suprahampton

3 жыл бұрын

Don't forget his documentary on Brunel

@donf3877

3 жыл бұрын

The Making of The Greatest Raid is equally excellent. You could tell everyone involved in making the models, being a part of it, was doing it because and not just for the money.

@krell2130

3 жыл бұрын

Aye, you've certainly been well and truly programmed.

My father was a bomber pilot during the war. Later on, he volunteered to fly gliders and was subsequently trained on the Horsa. As things turned out, the airborne operations came to an end before he actually went into action flying his Horsa. Luckily for me!

@mr2tuner136

3 жыл бұрын

i had 2 grandfathers in ww2 1 and his brother that flew B-17s over germany the brother was shot down and killed. The other was a destroyer crewman. Myself an Aircraft tech for the Usaf. They simply dont make men like they used to.

@2good2often

3 жыл бұрын

As a glider pilot you had only one chance to get it right !

There are only 7 living recipients of the Victoria Cross. I find that quite incredible. I don't know how many MoH receivers are still alive but I think it's 67. There were 473 medals of honor awarded during WW2. And there were only 182 Victoria Crosses awarded. It's not fair to compare medals, but I think in nearly every category, from the total number awarded in history, the number awarded during the war, number of living recipients since the war, to the number awarded since WW2, to the number of people who have been awarded it more than once - the Victoria Cross has been more rarely awarded. Even though I've lived in the UK for more than 30 years, I'm still a proud American, and proud of my country, and I'm not going to belittle the MoH. They are all heroes in my eyes. But I do think, we have been a bit generous with the MoH compared to the VC. And the fact that Medal of Honor receivers get paid $1,400 per month benefit, an extra 10% pension, and free health insurance collectively worth more than $22,000 - is kind of missing the point of the medal. Being proud of receiving it ought to be benefit enough. VC receivers up until very recently, only received a very small annuity worth around £50 per week. No other benefits were inferred. The government have said that this will rise to about £192 to future VC receivers but not for existing holders. No other benefits will be given. I do think that pride should be the real value of bravery.

27:31 is such an inspiring quote from Clarkson. The VC has proven that not anyone can be extraordinary but instead that an extraordinary person can come from anywhere.

Wow. I'm speechless and emotional. Such great men, but ordinary men.

Magnificent story of Maj. Cain's heroism. By all accounts a truly extraordinary man during an extraordinary time. Thanks so much for posting this program. A tiny glimpse into one real facet of the event called "A Bridge Too Far".

The greatest documentary series….IN THE WORLD

A friend of mine was one of the paras who was taken prisoner at Arnhem. He promptly escaped and was recaptured and sent to a stalag where he escaped once more and made it back to allied lines.

True hero's all of them. Clarkson truly shows respect in the way he presented this programme. Wish there was more made

I could imagine anyone else but Jeremy Clarkson doing these Documentaries. His ability to be serious yet put a little humor into it is absolutely wonderful. I love hearing these stories. Three uncles of mine where Marines in WWII and all over the Islands fighting the Japanese. Our soldiers during these times were the True Super Hero's.

Goosebumps twist in the last few seconds, that you couldn't get unless you watch the whole thing. Well done the researchers, and a top class presentation by Jeremy.

What an amazing story, wow. I had NO IDEA of what it took to win a VC. The Story of Major Cain was an example of bravery I could have never imagined one soldier could achieve. The fact that he never even told his own daughter that he won the VC was the most surprising ending to this story. Thank you!

My grandad always used to praise the Gurkhas to high heaven.. he never did tell me the stories though..

3 жыл бұрын

They are some of the world's best warriors, tough as nails.

@areyouundoingthatorwhat9181

3 жыл бұрын

Mine also,always said they were a fearless and fearsome bunch.

@karenblackadder1183

3 жыл бұрын

If the Gurkhas were anywhere near, you knew you had a fighting change. The fiercest warriors of all. They and their descendants have earned the right to live in this country along with a pension. ILLEGAL migrants from Calais DO NOT have that right.

@karenblackadder1183

3 жыл бұрын

That's supposed to say chance.

@rockstarJDP

3 жыл бұрын

@@karenblackadder1183 shut the f*ck up Karen, what hell does immigration have to do with anything? Dumbass Xenephobe.

I knew 'Dickie Long', one of the heroes featured in this documentary. I met him through the London taxi drivers' veterans' charity. He flew gliders into Normandy, Arnhem and Germany (Varsity). He was a very small (Chosen for that reason) and softly spoken man. I spent an afternoon with him one time when he told me a harrowing account of his landing in Germany. Once the men and equipment were deployed, he sat alone atop his Hamelcar. Given the noise and adrenalin that had been prevalent moments before, he sat in silence. "What were you thinking?" I asked. "I hope that was the last time." Came his reply. I moved away but before I left I saw him one last time. I got us fish and chips and we sat together in his kitchen. He was 91 years old then and on a lot of meds. He had slight difficulty walking. His ex council house was decorated in the style of his generation and was immaculate. I'm 6' 3" and powerfully built and I was humbled to awe every time I was in his company. I hung on his every word and it is my honour to have known him. They don't make 'em like this anymore yet maybe they do. Let's hope we never find out. God bless Dickie Long.

@theymademedoit6814

9 ай бұрын

Superb 🙇🏻‍♂️

@cavscout7113

9 ай бұрын

God Bless him and you.

All heroes,with balls of steel,these,and all that fought in the wars,should NEVER be forgotten 😔

The last minute of this episode is .... something of a kind.

This, and The Greatest Raid, always manage to bring tears to my eyes. Thank you Clarkson for making some amazing war documentaries sir!

@tr9092

2 жыл бұрын

Same here.

Men like this , set the bar for courage so high we others can see it only with binoculars. Thank you each and every one.

That reveal at the end was quite unexpected

@dashcammer4322

3 жыл бұрын

@@philgraham8213 Fat, old, rich boors are known to do such things.

@carrma3831

3 жыл бұрын

@@dashcammer4322 Ruined it

@Nyctophiliac.

3 жыл бұрын

@@dashcammer4322 fat, privileged, bratty pigs sure know how to complain

"Now let's not get bogged down with hoo did wot to hoo............." this documentary is a superb example of the excellence that is Jezza

Thank you Jeremy for letting know this amazing story which shows the courage and highest qualities of the human beings who were part of these extraordinary exploits. Thank you again. Juan Carlos from Argentina

One of my favorite movies that I watch every year at Remembrance Day. Than you for sharing this amazing story of an amazing man.

A remarkable documentary about a remarkable man who like many was so humble and understandably was unable to talk about the horrific events they went through

Fascinating--These programmes with Jeremy as narrator are absolutely gripping !!!!

One of the most interesting programmes I have ever watched. And what a good choice of music!!!

Without doubt , the greatest generation ! Jeremy's presenting on here is top notch , you can sense the respect and admiration he has for them ....

I find Jeremy Clarkson documentaries very watchable. He makes a brilliant question master as well. Very talented gentleman

Simply brilliant. Been a fan of Jeremy for years and this is a side that he rarely shows; intelligent, thoughtful, and thought provoking.

This is what storytelling, history and honor are all about - unearthing the facts and details, drama and emotion are somewhat secondary - the human beings and their context are the subject matter - bravo, Mr Clarkson! This is priceless

My Grandfather Tommy Deakin was a tank driver and i was and am so proud of him and my grandmother was in the radar rooms directing our guns to shoot down planes both amazing people who i love dear blossom Deakin xx

Please Jeremy, if you read these, I want more Docs like this, The Greatest Raid and Brunel. Astounding and supremely educational.

Those Ghurkas, what can you say. Absolute LEGENDS!

I'll be honest. I didnt expect to come on YT today to find Jeremy Clarkson doing a history documentary

Thats honestly one of the most touching things ive ever watched, great respect to these people!

A good example for how hard it is to be awarded the Victoria Cross is the story of WO2 Jack Kirby. Jack Kirby was CSM Delta Company, 6RAR during the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. During the battle, WO2 Kirby attacked an enemy machine gun position, killed its crew with his rifle on point blank, destroyed the machine gun with a grenade and went back to his unit. In WW1 and WW2 soldiers were awarded the VC for such an action. Jack Kirby was recommended for the VC by his Commanding Officer, Major Harry Smith. But the Commanding General put it down to a Distinguished Conduct Medal. Sadly Jack Kirby was later in the war killed by friendly fire from Australian or New Zealand Artillery.

Being Australian of British descent, protecting your mates is something you will do without thinking, no matter what it takes...

My grandparents lived in Arnhem and they always told us about hiding in their basement whilst Germans and British soldiers were shooting at each other through the house. I am so proud of my grandparents and family. My grandparents hid jews in the attic and transported British airmen using an ambulance. My great uncle was executed in 1944 for killing dozens of Germans and disabling flack numerous times in order to pave the way for allied bombers. My other grandfather had a scar between his eyes caused by a German bayonet belonging to a soldier who did not live to tell the story.

My god I love Clarksons delivery of this amazing story

really good quality video of an amazing documentary - well done, North One!!

I remember seeing this when it was shown on TV. Absolutely incredible story.

I wish the audio cut outs weren’t there. This is such an interesting show with a wonderful storyteller to lead us through it. Such a shame.