Sicily - A Catastrophic Victory?

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The Army Flying Museum will be hosting a special lecture to mark the anniversary of Operation Ladbroke. Join Mike Peters in the Museum on Tuesday 12th July as he lifts the veil on the first large scale British use of gliders in action. This occurred in July 1943 as a key part of Operation HUSKY, the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied Sicily from bases in North Africa. Flying in large numbers of troops by night over sea against a well trained enemy would be a challenge at any time. But, as the Mike Peters reveals, the newly formed airlanding forces and the pilots of the Glider Pilot Regiment woefully lacked the necessary training and experience. The result was little short of a total disaster with over 300 men drowned and few troops landing successfully enough to carry out their missions. Thanks to shining examples of collective and individual heroism by survivors, a total catastrophe was averted. The successes and failures of this overly ambitious venture will make for a fascinating insight of classic military history.

The lecture starts at 7pm, all attendees should be seated by 6.50pm.

A curry supper is also available from the Apache Café at 6pm – advance order only (last orders for curry Sunday 3 July).

Curries are limited so book soon to avoid disappointment.

If you are unable to attend in person, then then simply buy a pass to watch online on the Museum's website with the opportunity to join in the live Q&A. This event will also be recorded for catch up viewing afterwards.