Afleveringen
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CONTENT
The guest today is Kim Read who was previously on pods 49 and 79 when we discussed the International Long Range Recce Patrol School and the East German Army.
On this episode we talk about the Provisional Irish Republican Army's (IRA) campaign against British forces in Germany during the Troubles. The discussion highlights the increased threat and vulnerability experienced by soldiers and their families stationed there, who became soft targets for attacks. It also touches on the impact on daily life, increased security measures, and the psychological effects of living under constant threat. The conversation further compares the motivations and tactics of the IRA with those of soldiers, as well as drawing parallels with other terrorist groups like the Red Army Faction in Germany, and reflects on the lasting impact of these events and the challenges of achieving true reconciliation.
No Desert Island Dits this episode as Kim has been a guest previously. The film we discuss is "Yesterday's Enemy" starring Stanley Baker, Guy Rolfe, Leo McKern and Gordon Jackson.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
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Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is former Royal Logistic Corps soldier and author James Lee. James was my guest on podcast 38 where we discussed his first book about his tour in Afghanistan called "Licking The Taliban’s Flip Flop". In this episode we discuss his second book about his tour in Bosnia and Croatia in the 90s "Sleeping In The Ditch With Slobodan Milosevic".
James's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "The Hitch-Hiker's Guide to The Galaxy" by Douglas Adams. My choice is James's book "Sleeping In The Ditch With Slobodan Milosevic".
Offer code to get 25% off James's book is TUSP25.
Get in touch with James at:
Author Website
https://www.jamesleeauthor.co.uk/
Book Store
https://james-lee.sumupstore.com/
Flying Website
https://www.buddysaviation.club/
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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CONTENT
The guest today is Phil Blood a British historian and author specialising in military history, the Holocaust, and Nazi occupation policies. He is best known for his in-depth research on the intersection of warfare and genocide, particularly in Eastern Europe during World War II. On this episode we focus on historical perceptions of the German army during World War II and compare it to the British Army. The discussion begins by questioning the post-war narrative that often idealised German professionalism at the expense of the British. Phil, drawing on his military background and historical research, challenges this view, asserting that British soldiers were more capable than often portrayed, especially as the war progressed and their professionalism increased. The conversation then delves into various factors influencing these perceptions, including wartime propaganda, Sydney Jary's classic book "18 Platoon", the impact of specific battles (like Normandy and Arnhem), the performance and limitations of German equipment (like Tiger tanks), and the contrasting training and effectiveness of both armies. Ultimately, the dialogue questions the enduring myth of German military superiority and seeks to provide a more nuanced understanding of the fighting forces involved in the conflict.
Phil has written several books on WW2 including:
Hitler’s Bandit Hunters: The SS and the Nazi Occupation of Europe, which explores the brutal anti-partisan campaigns conducted by the SS and Wehrmacht, revealing their integral role in the Holocaust and war crimes.
Birds of Prey:Hitler’s Luftwaffe, Ordinary Soldiers and the Holocaust in Poland, reveals how the Luftwaffe, were perpetrators of Lebensraum and genocide.
War Comes to Aachen: The Nazis, Churchill and the 'Stalingrad of the West narrates the tumultuous era of total war through the fate of Aachen. Imperial Germany’s seat of power for 600 years, site of Charlemagne’s coronation as Holy Roman Emperor, and a place with greater geopolitical significance for Adolf Hitler in 1944 than Stalingrad in 1943.
He has contributed to academic and military institutions and is recognized for his meticulous archival research and ability to uncover new perspectives on well-studied conflicts. His work continues to influence both scholarly and public understanding of Nazi occupation and military policy.
Phil's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "United States: Essays 1952-1992" by Gore Vidal. My choice is Phil's Book "Hitler’s Bandit Hunters: The SS and the Nazi Occupation of Europe".
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is former soldier Chris Binch. After serving 7 years with 2 PARA he left to work in the Private Security Industry before joining the fire service. He is the host of the The Old Paratrooper Podcast. We discuss military experiences, the transition to civvi street and perspectives on current conflicts. We also delve into the realities of army life, including training, operational tempo, and the impact of combat, alongside reflections on the private security industry. Finally, we explore evolving attitudes towards military service and the stark contrast between past and present depictions of warfare on social media, culminating in a shared interest in podcasting as a platform for open dialogue and supporting the veteran community.
Chris's book choices on Desert Islands Dits are “The Watchman” by Chris Ryan and “Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know" by Ranulph Fiennes. My choice is “Regarding The Pain Of Others” by Susan Sontag.
Follow Chris on Instagram @theoldparatrooper.
Contact Chris: [email protected]
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent bookstores online sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Mark "Splash" Aston. Splash joined the Gloucester Regiment in 1964 as a teenager. He later passed selection for 22 SAS as a Colour Sergeant in the late 1970s joining Mountain Troop of D Squadron. On this episode discuss his early army life, training for selection and the Falklands war in 1982 when his squadron was instrumental in key operations against Argentine forces. Splash took part in various missions during Op CORPORATE, including the landing on Fortuna Glacier, the successful capture of South Georgia, and the assault on Pebble Island airstrip. He was one of the survivors of the Sea King helicopter crash which claimed the lives of 22 fellow soldiers. Despite his injuries Splash refused medical evacuation and returned to the squadron to take part in further operations on Mount Kent and West Falkland. We also discuss his post war visits to the Falklands, what it was like to be an instructor at the International Long Range Recce Patrol School in Germany and why he wrote his book SAS: Sea King Down.
Splash's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "The Warlord Chronicles" series by Bernard Cromwell. My choices are Splash's book "SAS: Sea King Down, The Extraordinary True Story Of The SAS At War In The Falklands" and "Across an Angry Sea: The SAS in the Falklands War" by Lt General Cedric Delves.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
On this episode I will be discussing jungle warfare with Kev and we cover; how Britain transformed its army into an effective jungle fighting force in WW2 after an inauspicious start, why jungle warfare training is relevant in the 21st century, Exercise IRON LANCE a typical jungle training course in the early 90s run by 22 SAS.
Finally we take a look at two books, the classic The Jungle Is neutral by Freddie Spencer Chapman and Jungle Soldier: the true story of Freddy Spencer Chapman, an autobiography by Brian Moynahan
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Kim Read who appeared on episode #49 when we talked about training at the LRRP school in the 1980s. On this pod we discuss life in Germany during and after the Cold war. What it was like to go on exercise and some of the remarkable conversations we had with German WW2 veterans we met. Kim lives in Germany and tells me about former work mates who served in the East German army including a T55 tank driver, an SS21 commander and another who worked for the infamous Stasi. We also discuss how the War in Ukraine is viewed by the Germans.
No Desert Island Dits this week as Kim has been on the pod before.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
My guest today is Lilian van Mourik. On this episode we dicuss the recovery of Stirling bomber BK716 and its seven crew members as part of the remarkable Dutch national programme for WW2 aircraft recoveries which was set up in 2019 and aims to unearth 30 aircraft over the next decade. We also discussed Dutch wartime remembrance culture, the morality of area bombing, the deprivations of the hunger winter and how the sacrifices made in WW2 are relevant today. Keep an ear out for our competition question and the chance to win a book about BK 716 and also a few beers that were brewed to commemorate the crew. All competition entries should be sent to: [email protected].
Lilian's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "Luchtmeisjes (Sky Girls)" by Ingrid van der Chijs. My choice is "Bomber" by Len Deighton.
For more information on BK716 use the following links:
E-magazine : https://www.bk716.their-story.org/
Documentary: https://www.vliegenoverpolderlijnen.com/
Government website aircraft recovery programme - https://www.government.nl/topics/second-world-war/wreckage-recovery-of-second-world-war-aircraft
The Aircraft Recovery Group, who initially found the aircraft and a huge part for the families of the dead airmen https://www.arg1940-1945.nl/en.htm
Books: https://www.almere.nl/over/historie/erfgoedhuis/boeken
Brewery: https://www.brouwerijstijl.com/
For more information Lilian can be contacted at: [email protected]
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
On pod # 070 we interviewed the author Andrew Long about his book “The Story Of BRIXMIS And The Secret Cold War - Intelligence Gathering Operations Behind East Germany”. This episode continues our examination of Cold War espionage focusing on BRIXMIS members operating deep inside Soviet occupied East Germany. Our guest is Nick a former member of the Intelligence Corps. We talk about his remarkable career in the Corps when he joined as a private soldier and completed his Colour service as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Nick details his experiences and operations as part of BRIXMIS and the discussion includes insights into training, the significant intelligence gathering of the unit, as well as their interactions with Soviet and East German forces. It highlights the challenges faced, including the risk of detainment, and the inherent dangers of operating unarmed in hostile environments. Additionally, Nick provides anecdotal accounts of acting as an interpretor for the infamous Nazi Rudolf Hess and reflects on how the Cold War's lessons remain relevant today in Ukraine.
Nick's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "The Spy Who Came In from the Cold" by John Le Carre. The team's choices are "Dead Men Risen" by Toby Harnden and "We Win They Lose: Republican Foreign Policy And The New Cold War" by Matthew Kroenig and Dan Negrea.
Corrections: A couple of post production corrections. The Spandau role came to the Mission in 1982, when the British Military Government interpreter, Mr Sanders, finally asked to be allowed to retire - he had previously agreed to serve on beyond his retirement date 'until the prisoner has died', but Hess appeared to be immortal. Mr Sanders retired and BRIXMIS stepped into his role and continued until Hess died in 1987. Also three former Intelligence Corps junior soldiers retired as Lt Lieutenant Colonels not four.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
At the end of November I went on a road trip with Kev to Northern Ireland. In many respects it was more of a battlefield tour than a road trip covering areas where we had been on operations. On this pod we discuss the transformation of Northern Ireland since we were there in the late 80s and early 90s with a focus on Belfast, Londonderry and South Armagh. We reflect on our past tours on Op BANNER during the Troubles and provide comparisons between the past and present while exploring key landmarks like the Europa Hotel. We also travel the roads in South Armagh, visit former military bases and discuss the region's struggles and journey towards peace. During our trip we saw how far Northern Ireland has come and reflect on the compromises and changes that have contributed to its current state.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Patrick Bury a former Royal Irish Regiment officer who joined the army in 2005 and spent five years in uniform, including a tour in Sangin, Helmand in 2008. We discuss the complexities of COIN warfare and the leadership and ethical challenges during this type of operation. We examine the phenomenon of 'warrior culture,' accountability in military leadership, the corrosive effect of combat on soldiers and the need, or otherwise, for moral soldiering by liberal democracies fighting an enemy who are not hindered by such ideals.
Paddy, is now an academic and a Senior Associate Professor in Security at University of Bath and a UK Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellow specialising in CT and warfare. His areas of expertise include: counter-terrorism transformation and capacity building; military operations; British Army Reserve; military logistics; the Second World War; NATO; Irish military service. He regularly provides expertise on security matters to both global and national media.
His book choice on Desert Island Dits is "A Rumor Of War" by Philip Caputo. My choice is "Ground Truth: The Moral Component In Contemporary British Warfare". We also discuss "Black Heart" by Jim Frederick and "On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society" by Dave Grossman.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Chris Cocks who was on pod 72 when we discussed his service in the Rhodesian Light Infantry and his book "Fire Force - One Man's War In The Rhodesian Light Infantry". On this episode we discuss life after he finished his service and his sequel to Fire Force "Survival Course - Rhodesian Denouement And The War Of Self".
The conversation focuses on Chris's transition from military to civilian life and his role as a farm manager while also serving as a reservist in the police anti-terrorist unit (PATU). He elaborates on the guerrilla warfare conducted by the enemy, his patrol duties, the challenges faced with limited and outdated equipmen and the moral complexities encountered in combat scenarios. The episode delves into Chris's post-war struggles with PTSD and substance abuse, his journey through rehabilitation, and his reflective thoughts on the war's lasting impact. Personal anecdotes, including ambushes, interactions with former guerrillas, and the societal divide in Rhodesia all providing a vivid account of Chris's experiences. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of mental health support for veterans.
No Desert Island Dits this episode as Chris has been on before but my recommendation is Chris's book "Survival Course - Rhodesian Denouement And The War Of Self".
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Loz Moore a former officer in the British Army. Loz was on podcast 62 when we discussed his operational tours with the infantry in Afghanistan, Iraq and NI. On this episode we discuss transitioning from military life to civilian careers and delve into the challenges of resettlement faced by veterans. We talk of our different experiences from my transition after 22 years of service and Loz’s abrupt transition due to medical retirement. The discussion emphasizes the importance of planning, self-awareness, and seeking help when needed. We also highlight the role of organizations in providing purpose and community post-service. The episode aims to offer valuable insights and practical advice for veterans navigating their own transition back to civilian life.
No Desert Island dits this episode as Loz has been on before but we do discuss "Storm of Steel" by Ernst Junger, "Devil's Guard" by George Robert Elford and "Memoirs of an Infantry Officer" by Siegfried Sassoon.
You can contact Loz by email: [email protected]. Cockleshell 22 website is at: https://cockleshell22.com and Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Cockleshell22/
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is former soldier and author of "Fire Force - A Troopers War In The Rhodesian Light Infantry" Chris Cocks. Chris was born in Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia in 1957. In 1976 he was conscripted for national service, and ended up serving 3 years in the Rhodesian Light Infantry or RLI. Then 18 months with PATU, the Police Anti-Terrorist Unit.
The RLI was an elite commando regiment formed in 1961 and played a pivotal role throughout the conflict which took place from 1964 to 1979. Originally conceived as a conventional infantry unit, the RLI evolved into a specialized counter-insurgency force, renowned for their relentless pursuit of guerrilla fighters. The ranks of the Rhodesiam Army consisted of regular soldiers, national servicemen, reservists and foreign volunteers from all around the world but their tactics, techniques and procedures were limited to what the country could afford to obtain in the face of rigid international sanctions.
This led to the development of highly mobile, aggressive fire force operations. This concept used helicopters and paratroopers to great effect and earned them a formidable reputation as they fought a large guerilla force and inflicted a heavy price on their enemy with an estimated ratio of 35 enemy casualties for each of their own. Despite these battlefield successes a small isolated country like Rhodesia could not sustain the cost in treasure and manpower of a high intensity COIN campaign and in 1979 British-brokered all-party talks lead to a peace agreement and new constitution guaranteeing minority rights. The following year Zanu leader Robert Mugabe won independence elections and the now Zimbabwe gained international recognition in April of that year. On this pod we’ll explore the stories behind their tactics, training, and the complex legacy they left behind as one of the world’s most efficient military units.
Chris's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "Chickenhawk" by Robert Mason. My choice is Chris's book "Fire Force" a no holds barred and brutal account of his service in 3 Commando and former soldiers will recognise the black humour in the face of adversity alongside the visceral account of close combat and death in the African bush.
Fire Force is available to purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fireforce-Mans-Rhodesian-Light-Infantry/dp/0958489092
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Ben Skipper a freelance feature writer and author with books and articles published on art, military and field sports subjects. He is an Associate Member of Royal Aeronautical Society and the Pen and Sword Club for military journalists and writers. His interest in British armour was cemented by a visit to the King’s Royal Hussars in the early 1990s as an undergraduate in the Territorial Army. He joined the RAF in 1997, and served in conflict zones including Kosovo and Sierra Leone. He also played rugby for the RAF.
A Former Force Protection NCO Ben, suffered increasingly with a range of balance, muscular and co-ordination issues to the extent doctors thought he might have onset dementia. It was during tests, that an MRI scan picked up bright spots of damage in Ben's brain and it was found that Ben had experienced a traumatic brain injury during his days in the RAF.
Symptoms of his brain injury started to impact on his life and became progressively worse after leaving the Service in 2002.
Ben is also a freelance consultant academic specialising in Veteran social culture. He has written various papers regarding the symptomatic presentation and effects of combat-related PTSD, not only upon the individual but also on the family and community. This input has been sought and included in Lord Ashcroft's "The Veterans' Transition Review" (2014) and "The Value of Participation in University Armed Services Unit's" by Newcastle University. Other projects include a visual campaign promoting positive Veteran representation and an exhibition of contemporary Veteran Art.
He also finds time to be a County Member East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association who work to support the growth of the Reserves and Cadet Forces in Nottinghamshire.
On this podcast we discuss his forces background and work with Fallout which is a new collaborative historical studies enterprise featuring the work of Dr Philip W. Blood, Dustin Du Cane all working on the fringe of contemporary thought. Links to Fallout can be found in the show notes.
The main focus is on veterans however. We cover a variety of issues including public perception, politicisation, charities, armed forces covenant, do we need a vetterans minister and much more.
Ben's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "The Darling Buds Of May" by H E Bates. My choice is "Schimitar into Stanley - One Soldier's Falklands War " by Roger Field.
Ben's webpage "I...am a Veteran" can be found at https://www.iamaveteran.co.uk/
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Andrew Long a Cold War historian and author whose book “The story of BRIXMIS and the secret Cold War: Intelligence gathering operations behind East Germany” was released on 30 July 2024.
The German Democratic Republic (East Germany) was a focal point during the Cold War, with Soviet and East German forces stationed along the 1,400 km Inner German Border. Due to the repressive police state, the West had limited intelligence on these forces. NATO, stationed in West Germany, needed up-to-date intelligence on potential threats from the East.
BRIXMIS (British Commanders’-in-Chief Mission to the Soviet Forces in Germany) played a key role in gathering this intelligence. Established through a 1946 agreement, BRIXMIS allowed British military observers to operate in East Germany, gathering intelligence from 1946 until 1990. Their missions involved using modified vehicles and photography equipment to document Soviet and East German military activities, despite constant risks from secret police and counterintelligence. Alongside their French and American counterparts, BRIXMIS provided vital intelligence that helped maintain peace during the Cold War.
Andrew's book choice is the Carla trilogy consisting of: "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy", "The Honourable Schoolboy" and "Smiley's People" by John Le Carre. The teams choices are "Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949-1990" by Katja Hoyer and "Falklands Gunner: A Day-by-Day Personal Account of the Royal Artillery in the Falklands War" by Tom Martin.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Andy McNab CBE DCM MM former special forces soldier, author and business man. On this episode we discuss his chaotic childhood, army service, functioning psychopaths, book writing, shooting Hollywood films and his latest project with WeServed a service for Veterans by Veterans - for more information visit www.we-served.com.
Andy's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "Our Mutual Friend" by Charles Dickens.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Dr Helen Fry. Helen has authored and edited over 25 books covering the social history of the Second World War, including British Intelligence and the secret war, espionage and spies, and MI9 escape and evasion. She is the foremost authority on the 'secret listeners' who worked at special eavesdropping sites operated by British Intelligence during WWII. Her groundbreaking research and extensive media coverage have shed light on one of the greatest intelligence deceptions of the war: the bugging of Hitler’s generals at Trent Park in North London, and thousands of prisoners of war at Latimer House and Wilton Park in Buckinghamshire.
On this podcast we discuss her book "MI9 - A History of the Secret Service for Escpe and Evasion in World War Two". When Allied fighters were trapped behind enemy lines, one branch of military intelligence helped them escape: MI9. The organisation set up clandestine routes that zig-zagged across Nazi-occupied Europe, enabling soldiers and airmen to make their way home. Secret agents and resistance fighters risked their lives and those of their families to hide the men. Drawing on declassified files and eye-witness testimonies from across Europe and the United States, Helen Fry provides a significant reassessment of MI9's wartime role.
Thanks to her expertise, Helen has appeared in a number of documentaries, including David Jason’s Secret Service (Channel 5), Spying on Hitler's Army (Channel 4), and Secrets of the Spies (Britbox). She has provided advisory services for TV and drama, something that she particularly enjoys. Helen has covered the major D-Day commemorations in live BBC broadcasts from Normandy, and she regularly appears in media interviews and podcasts.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The guest today is Patrick Crowley author of "Rose Castle and Crown - Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Citizen Soldiers". On this podcast we will cover the history of the British Army's citizen soldiers going back to the raising of militias in the 16th century up to the Army Reserves of the present day. We discuss the challenge and sacrifice that all military volunteers, throughout history, have had to make balancing the needs of service with family demands and their main civilian employment. It also demonstrates that reservists continue to significantly contribute to the United Kingdom’s military capabilities.
Patrick is currently the chief executive of the South East Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association, which involves promoting reserves and cadets, tri-service, in the nine counties of the South East of England, as well as helping to connect Defence with society. He has been in this appointment since retiring from the British Army in 2014. Commissioned into 1st Battalion the Queen's Regiment in 1980, he was a Major when the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment (PWRR) was founded in 1992. He served as a rifle platoon commander, mortar officer, adjutant, company commander, second-in- command and commanding officer within the regiment, commanding the regiment's 3rd (Volunteer) Battalion. Service included many tours of Northern Ireland, a period in Baghdad and numerous staff appointments, mainly related to infantry and staff training, as well as the Territorial Army and Army Reserves. Overseas roles included postings to Gibraltar and Zimbabwe. In addition, he has run many battlefield tours, is a committee member of the Military Historical Society and a trustee on a number of military-related charities. A deputy colonel of the PWRR since 2008, Patrick lives in Hampshire.
Patrick's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is anything by the historian Richard Holmes. My choice is Patrick's book "Rose Castle and Crown - Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Citizen Soldiers". Profits from the sale of Patricks book will go to the Connaught Trust which has commissioned the book. The trust is a charity that aims to promote the military efficiency of all ranks in Hampshire and the Isle Of Wight seving in the Reserves of the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines and their associated cadet units.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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CONTENT
The subject of this pod is the Derryard action, a sustained IRA deliberate attack in December 1989 against an Army Permanent Check Point (PVCP) close to the border with the Republic Of Ireland a few miles north of Rosslea, County Fermanagh. The checkpoint was manned by members of the Kings Own Scottish Borderers who fought off an Active Service Unit that considerably overmatched them with weapons. On this pod we discuss the motivation of IRA volunteers, how the IRA was financed and obtained its weapons, the attack on Derryard and its aftermath. My book choice on this podcast is "The IRA" by Tim Pat Coogan.
WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICES
Most of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Bookshop. 10% of each purchase supports the pod and helps independent book stores on line sales.
"BUY ME A COFFEE"
If you want to support the podcast you can buy me a coffee here.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.
Facebook @lateo82.
Twitter @TheUCS473.
Download these and other platforms via Link Tree.
Email us: [email protected].
This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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