ONE Life Above Enemy Lines [Archive]

Melchett01

9th October 2007, 23:26

Well that brought back memories from my time round the birdtable planning at Bastion summer 06. Some happy, some not so. All the same a good effort by the BBC and a cracking effort by the crews even though the end result was not what not as hoped for.

And to any of the bean counters, yes-men and admin gurus out there who think we exist to save money, make the politicians look good and do endless reams of !!!!e, you should all be locked in a room and made to watch this programme repeatedly until you finally work out what it is we actually do and why we are here!

petop

9th October 2007, 23:28

I was one of those customers on ARRSE that submitted a comment and have to say well done to all the crews and the like on the program.
Pity it couldnt be on earlier. As much as us Army types slate the RAF types, the professionalism of the crews shone out. Outstanding how quick that pre-flight took!

moggiee

9th October 2007, 23:46

A quality programme about top quality people. Hats off to all concerned.

Seldomfitforpurpose

10th October 2007, 00:09

Didn't see it but can guess what it was about, we have the constant reminder of the weekly C17 joining the circuit with fallen comrades on board, makes me shiver and wish god bless them all :sad:

Marly Lite

10th October 2007, 02:09

Awesome documentary!

Really got to the reality of ops, Well done all aircrew/groundcrew mates involved. The 2 RPG bangs behind the cab made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up, nowt worse (other than a hit!!)

'Professional' came to mind.:ok:

Marly.

monkeybumhead

10th October 2007, 07:19

Nice to see the groundcrew getting the recognition they deserve. Oh sorry I must have blinked and missed them. Still I suppose the aircrew are all that matters in the real world cos those areoplane thingys just fix/fuel/arm themselves dont they?

On a lighter note, well done Phil on a sterling job.

roony

10th October 2007, 07:30

Nice brief to the yanks MS, tell it like it is!

Gainesy

10th October 2007, 08:09

Just a shame it was on so late, the great unwashed need to see that.

Occasional Aviator

10th October 2007, 08:18

Nice one. I thought Digs came across very well but it would have been good to see some more of the crewmen at least, even if there wasn't time to talk to the groundcrew, which would have been better still.

Having said that, a top programme that I need to get a tape of for my wife so she can see what I get up to (occasionally).

moosemaster

10th October 2007, 08:33

Did watch it and was most impressed by all involved, including the BBC for a change.

It would have been nice to see some of the other trades rather than just pilots represented, but I think they caught the over-all picture of life in an operational theatre.

I never experienced life as these folk do/did, by the time the guys reached me the medical outcome was already known, one way or the other.

As said previously, the great unwashed need to see this. I know it made it to BBC1, and I can see why it was on quite so late but....

...BBC, please repeat it.

mutleyfour

10th October 2007, 08:33

Brilliant and well drawn up documentary. Nice to see things at Operator level.

Wycombe

10th October 2007, 08:38

Great docu (makes a change) about some great, and very brave work being done out there. Hats off to the lot of you from someone who's only ever riden in the back of Odiham's finest for fun.

Fastest reading (or is it from memory) of a checklist I've ever seen when rushing to get the cab airborne for the Casevac.

So, who's your favourite newsreader? :ok:

jollygreenfunmachine

10th October 2007, 08:40

Missed it! Was dragged out to the cinema instead. However can highly recommend the latest Ben Stiller movie!
Anyone know if it might be repeated? The documentary that is, before a whole list of local cinema timings get posted!

airborne_artist

10th October 2007, 09:18

JGF - I have it on tape, happy to mail it to you when I've seen it, in return for a donation to RBL.

PPRuNeUser0211

10th October 2007, 09:40

Anyone know if there's a catchup type affair available on BBC anywhere? Or anyone got a copy the can send me? Am stuck in a mess without a TV and missed the thing!

BEagle

10th October 2007, 09:41

An excellent documentary - and it should be mandatory viewing for all politicians and MoD civil serpents!

Good luck to all in the dust and $hit of Bliar's follies.

The Helpful Stacker

10th October 2007, 09:53

Gus T Breeze

10th October 2007, 09:55

I'm normally one of the first to have a dig at the crabs, but I have to say I watched last night's documentary and have the utmost respect.

MadsDad

10th October 2007, 10:11

The programme was reviewed in todays Guardian. Generally complimentary the review did however mention that the personnel concerned were "the men of 27th Squadron, based at RAF Odium in Hampshire".

The Helpful Stacker

10th October 2007, 10:15

'The Grauniad' is well known for its spelling mistakes, everyone knows its spelt Odious.

I'm downloading the programe now.:ok:

The Nr Fairy

10th October 2007, 10:41

It wasn't just the speed of the checklist items from memory, it was the "someone follow me" when he went through the next lot - professionalism under pressure not just from one individual, but from all concerned.

The Guardian review is here (http://www.guardian.co.uk/tv_and_radio/story/0,,2187355,00.html).

And i wonder how many hits his PlentyOfFish page will get now :)

mutleyfour

10th October 2007, 11:06

On a lighter note, I did chuckle at the reply from the ever so carefully worded email to whatever the girls name was! Hope she was watching last night!

Gainesy

10th October 2007, 11:54

I see that the review in the Grauniad also throws in some technique tips for Padders' online stalki... er... courting.:)

XV277

10th October 2007, 12:53

Excellent documentary. Well done to Ollie who made it.

An earlier slot would have been great, but they'd have had to bleep the :mad: sweary words, and you know someone would have complained about them anyway.

The Helpful Stacker

10th October 2007, 13:05

Well I've just finished watching it, what a fantastic program that was. The best bit of PR for what the RAF and the British forces as a whole are going through out there day-in, day-out.

If truth be told it stirred up some emotions within me, many of the faces are familiar to me from my up until recent service at RAF Odiham and one of the loadies during the first insertion into Sagin sounded very much like an ex-TSW chap I know well.

I would hope the BBC repeats it at an earlier time, possibly on a Sunday evening so that it could reach a wider audience especially those who decry the need for more SH assets.

Muldrake

10th October 2007, 13:13

Pity...

I cannot seem to watch the film, as the BBC website bans me from doing so, because I am from outside the UK.

Any one knows how to solve this?

Cheers,

Muldrake

The Helpful Stacker

10th October 2007, 13:17

Its on Youtube in bits.

Part 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZz0IXqCGv8)

Part 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlDkxti4uIs)

Part 3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhVPQZXPG3o)

Part 4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9ji-4ZKFU8)

Part 5 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HDm3CNYo24)

General Dog's Body

10th October 2007, 15:24

Well done to the mighty elephants. An excellent documentary; but it's dead easy when you have such great material to work with!! Thoughts are continually with all that serve in the rocky sandy place. Just a shame that you are sometimes to few at a time when most sane types recognise the need for more. Good Luck.

Fortyodd2

10th October 2007, 16:29

Just finished watching it on the "Watch again" facility - thanks for the link.
For once - what a superb documentary from the BBC. Well done to Ollie for making it so and much respect to those who "Starred" and those who continue to perform in sandy places. :D
Agree with earlier comments that it ought to be required viewing at the next cabinet meeting - if the double hatted one can tear himself away from Scotland that is.:ugh:

air pig

10th October 2007, 16:44

Maybe the double hatted one, his boss and some civil serpents should go out with the IRTs and see for themselves what the realities are and more importantly what they are responsible for now and in the future. This is why it cost money and more importantly lives of brave people.

Fantastic documentary, one of the BBCs better ones, should show it at 6pm on a Saturday instead of the normal rubbish, problem would be the sound would be bleeped out some of the time.

Did not know a a Chinook could be started so fast. Amazing flying. Hats off to all.

Talking Radalt

10th October 2007, 16:47

Excellent bit of telly and not a currant bun in sight! :ok:

Nice to see the groundcrew getting the recognition they deserve. Oh sorry I must have blinked and missed them.
The ONELife series isn't a hard hitting all encompassing factual documentary series, it's the new generation of fly-on-the-wall stuff. They concentrate on the human aspect, and I'm afraid in this case the humans in question were predominantly the Flt Cdr and two of his pilots.
Nice to see DP wiping vom off the seats with what looked like his bare hands! Who says crewmen have no standards?

LOTA

10th October 2007, 17:03

One of the finest programmes that the BBC has aired for years...well done all involved. Should be compulsory viewing for all of those in the military/government hierachy.

Pongocrab

10th October 2007, 17:29

Great to see the Wokkas in action. For those not familiar with the territory and what 'Terence the Taliban' does to pass the time, try reading '3 Para' in Afghanistan in 2006. (on sale in Tesco for a tenner)..... gives some idea of why the troops need Wokka support!!. LOVED the briefing to US 'walking freight'!!..... more of the same BEEB

High_lander

10th October 2007, 17:41

It was funny seeing the expressions on the face of the US soldiers.
& the part where he didn't know where one of the troopers didn't know where he was going.

Rather interesting seeing the Apaches being left behind.

Faithless

10th October 2007, 18:30

From zero to hero's in 60 minutes ....top stuff.....Lets not forget all the other people responsible getting that beast and crew in the air.
Well done one and all, stay safe where ever you be :D:D:D

Evalu8ter

10th October 2007, 19:37

"Nice to see DP wiping vom off the seats with what looked like his bare hands! Who says crewmen have no standards?"
Knowing DP, he probably just lost his gloves....and we all know that crewmen have no standards! (esp after a dozen jaegermeisters)
Well done Bunsters, an excellent un-melodramatic account of what its like. The sort of documentary that teenagers should see at school, rather than the PC cr*p they are force-fed nowadays.
The Medevac section brought back some particularly strong memories, BZ to all involved.
The contrast to some of the other "real life" documentaries about the RAF recently was stark.
Most importantly....
... Stradz managed to look camp in 5 seconds of air time....!

Max Shutterspeed

10th October 2007, 19:53

Try 'Watch Again' on the BBC site if you missed it. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/)
Here it is (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/page/item/b00828pn.shtml?filter=txdate%3A09-10&filter=txslot%3Aevening&scope=iplayerlast7days&start=1&version_pid=b00828mc).Bugger. Us Mac users are always getting picked on. It's a Windoze only download.

Anyone got any ideas when it might be on again, or how to watch it other that YouTube?

MS

Roger the cabin boy

10th October 2007, 20:11

Will add to the plaudits to both the BBC and to 27 - a quality program in all respects and I too only hope that Yellow Gordon and his merry men watched it.

For those who don't know, rest assured that 1310 Flt is a truly team effort and it is the work done by the whole crew and the gingers together that makes it happen. High Lander, it isn't that often we run away from the Apache boys - they have saved our arse on many an occasion! If it wasn't a risk worth taking, they'd've gone back in tandem.

Big respect to all concerned - I hope it is repeated.

Wng Cdr Pez

10th October 2007, 20:19

Excellent programme. RIP Pte Gray. I love it when the boys out there are recognised for what their really diong. Most people don't have a clue and definately don't appreciate what they have to do on a daily basis. Well done lads. Keep it up :)

Guzlin Adnams

10th October 2007, 21:38

What a superb programme. My greatest respect to all of you.
RIP Private Gray and god bless you from an eternally grateful family who lives in Viking land.

One thing that struck me was the comment about people complaining about their problems at home and work during their daily lives. Compare these to your problems out in these war-zones. Some people need a massive reality check in this country.
As for the mark 1 vomit clearing device so well demonstrated, if ever there was a job for our beloved politicians, civil serpants, bean-counters and the smug creatures that occupy the treasury it was that. Also perhaps having their nether regions exposed to one of those exploding RPG's....I guess that would give them something else to clear up.

For your work, dedication and professionalism, thankyou. Godspeed.

craigJ

10th October 2007, 21:53

After now seeing it warts and all... I would still do anything to be out there flying with those guys. :)

old-timer

10th October 2007, 22:23

Deep Respects to all, the programme put a very human face to the deployment & it was a very respectful touch at the end in honour of Pvt Gray, civilians 'problems' back home pale far into insignifcance.............
a 6 month tour should be mandatory for all MP's & winging civvies

Keep the faith guys & gals out there, you are not forgotten

OllyLambert

10th October 2007, 23:20

Hi there,

I'm the guy who made the film about 27 Sqn, and just wanted to say thanks for the positive comments, and for watching. It got a very big audience (2 millioin, which is very good for a documentary at that time), so all credit to the guys in it. Sorry about the time, but it's no reflection of the content - films in the ONE life strand all go out at 2235 regardless of subject matter.

If the BBC repeat it on one of their other channels, I'll post warning up here for those who missed it.

I can also report that Padders is no longer single.

Olly Lambert

WokkaCrewman

10th October 2007, 23:34

You're not wrong mate, that lovely Scottish twang does indeed belong to an ex Wing mong! I know, I am that man!

MrFlibble

10th October 2007, 23:46

Anyone who thinks the RAF is all Top Gun and Pimms should be forced to watch this, not to mention every government minister and MOD pen-pusher.

RIP to the brave Viking - thought it was a respectful touch at the end. Thank you.

The Helpful Stacker

11th October 2007, 06:48

You're not wrong mate, that lovely Scottish twang does indeed belong to an ex Wing mong! I know, I am that man!

Good to see you working hard. Bad drills though during the briefing at the start, you didn't have a cup of tea in your hand.

How quickly those TSW skills fade eh?;)

winkle

11th October 2007, 09:32

Caught the last 2/3rds of it and thought it was excellent. Bit of a lump to the throat at the casevac bit - whole team going balls out, rapid intercom chat and checklists, fantastic decision making processes.
Sorry Pvt Gray didnt make it and my thoughts with his family and mates.
Keep up the good work folks and come home safe.
Brilliant documentry.

Max Shutterspeed

11th October 2007, 10:52

Just sat and watched it back to back on YouTube. Well done to Olly for keeping the camera steady.

You're right about the lump in the throat bit with the casevac, the DOB of Private Grey, 1987, at the end really hit me - he could have been my son.

But f*ck me, they're the guys you'd want to be there for you when it all turns to !!!!.

Massively proud.

airsound

11th October 2007, 11:00

I'm the guy who made the film about 27 Sqn, and just wanted to say thanks for the positive comments
Welcome to PPRuNe, Olly, and thanks for sticking your head into the lions' den. The inmates aren't always as purry and giggly as this.

As I suggested in an email to the ONE Life office, you guys seem to have been responsible for significantly upping the street cred of the Beeb, which is not always notable for its popularity in these less-than-hallowed forums.

Anyway, many thanks, and do please keep up the good work.

airsound

airborne_artist

11th October 2007, 11:08

Olly - the fact that you have got such plaudits from the operators and "customers" (see ARRSE posts) tells me that you got it right, not just in the filming, but also the editing. Too many times we've seen footage edited to produce an very different message to the one the subjects were expecting. This time I think it must be spot-on BZ:ok: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bravo_Zulu)

Wiley

11th October 2007, 11:19

Olly, may I second airship's congratulations. You should be up for an award for your efforts. However, even if your own industry doesn't officially recognise your efforts, you've already won a major award right here from what would have to be the most critical audience known to man - the people 'on the coal face' you so brilliantly depicted.

It's a very long time since I did things similar in a helicopter somewhat smaller than a Chook, but it was all instantly recognisable and very, very familiar. I particularly loved that Loadie's pre-flight brief to the yanks. The looks of utter incomprehension on their faces were priceless.

West Coast

11th October 2007, 14:19

AngryDave

11th October 2007, 15:20

Brilliant programme as it showed what life is like over there and gave a good overview of what I suppose is daily life.

Just a quick question - who was the other guy up front next to Padders - is he a pilot too? Don't know if anyone else got the impression but it seemed that he knew his stuff more than Padders, but then again that might be because he wasn't busy flying.

Max Shutterspeed

11th October 2007, 15:31

"Massively proud"

Be careful, likely safe here but be prepared to be labeled jingoistic among other things for being proud of your mil and of your country. The titanium based skivvies might be in order.Couldn't give a sh1t :-)

Perhaps if more non-military types shouted from the rooftops about our forces and made it clear we're all very proud of them but bloody embarassed at the way the suits behave towards them, they might start to realise it will cost them votes - after all, that's the only thing that they care about, as seen at the weekend....

Off for a lie down, now... Oh, sorry, there's someone at the door..wonder what that grey car's doing parked outside....:ooh:

WeeMan18

11th October 2007, 15:37

Angry Dave,

I'll forward your question to Padders and let you know what he says.

wokawoka

11th October 2007, 17:28

I won t give you the exact name of the other pilot. We call him Tuffers. He was actually the captain of the aircraft and the crew. Padders is a Junior CR mate whilts Tuffers is an experienced training captain. This should answer you question.

Flatus Veteranus

11th October 2007, 17:42

Wokkawokka. Please pass on the congratulations of self and Mrs FV to 27for a superb performance. Mrs FV is looking around for a suitable cyber-pen pal for Padders (he should not hold his breath!).

Concerning the breath-taking checklists, is there not some way of doing everything ujp to "engine start" and then disconnecting the 28v or whatever, equivalent to leaving the Vulcan at RS15? Then all that is needed is 28v ON, press the tits and after-starting checks. Nevertheless, it made splendid TV.

whowhenwhy

11th October 2007, 18:53

Olly, magnificent work. Leaving aside the emotion and stark portrayal of what goes on, the part that really stood out for me was how well all the guys came across. Normal human beings, rather than brave steely eyed aviators eager for the next flight. Well, normal except for Padders who's just a loony. Just for the record, Kate Middleton!:ok:

Max Shutterspeed

11th October 2007, 19:05

Just for the record, Kate Middleton!They were talking about news readers then, weren't they? I think they meant Kate Silverton. (http://www.katesilverton.com/)

Not that I'd know anything about stuff like attractive female newsreaders....harumph....

Good to hear a sound debate about the merit of Razzle and Whitehouse, too.:ok:

animo et fide

11th October 2007, 19:09

Everyone

Being a bunster boy, the boys certainly appreciate all of your comments and are pleased at the way it came across, so thank you all

Squirrel 41

11th October 2007, 19:32

Just watched on YouTube - BZ to all concerned. :ok:

And RIP Pvt Gray. :(

S41

wokkameister

11th October 2007, 20:31

As a crewman on 27 Sqn, I think I need to council the crewman involved in the troop brief. I feel he could have achieved a far higher f's per minute rate with a little more effort.

Seriously though, I thought it painted an accurate picture of what we are up to out there. I too had a lump in my throat watching the IRT shout, as I have made that journey far too many times.

The gingers have voiced concerns that they werent included, and my first response is that it was labelled 'Above Enemy Lines' and not 'Behind the Perimeter Fence'.
However, I then remembered what an essential and pivotal role they play in procedures. But when all is said and done, guys fixing aircraft is not exciting tv, and however crucial a DECU change might be, it doesnt hold the publics very short attention span. Sad as that may be, Tim Hortons doughnuts in the post.

WM

fantaman

11th October 2007, 21:13

Top stuff from the beeb and you guys over on the wokka force. Its always refreshing to see the beeb can still produce a decent quality docu without glazing it over. Well done to all the lads on the ground out there and to all the SH guys, not just in the Stan but also in Iraq.

Also good to see you go balls to the wall when some poor bugger needs your help. Looks like you just gained a whole new level of respect from the Army.

Keep it up :ok:

MightyGem

11th October 2007, 22:07

Excellent programme, although I had to laugh when they said that two chinooks were going to take the Taliban by surprise!

By the way, what was the audio alarm sounding just before every landing? Seemed a bit low for the radalt.

rudekid

11th October 2007, 22:22

Thought the best quote of the show came from The Diggle: 'Piece of piss!'

Just seemed to sum it all up to me, thoughtful, mostly understated and well put together. Thought the key to it was the documentary footage was the difficult and dangerous bits, whilst a lot of the poignancy came from the human moments.

Thought everyone came across really well and it was nice to see (as someone has already pointed out) not a 1* or 2* in sight and no political or HQ spin.

Keep the hard work up guys, to all SH mates. The rest of the deployable air force knows how hard you're working!:ok:

Thud_and_Blunder

12th October 2007, 09:36

C-in-C Domestic recorded this for me while I was away on Nights; saw it yesterday, thoroughly agree with all the praise so far. Good to see that the oldies are still there maintaining standards - Nellie B might not've been the "featured artist" but he's clearly still in-post producing the goods. Well done folks.

ps BEagle, pleased to see your comments. This is the kind of thing we were doing when you used to write rude stuff about helicopter ops back in your mob days; nice to see evidence of adaptability, eh?! Good for you, and thanks.

GalleyTeapot

12th October 2007, 09:39

Anyone know if this programme will be repeated?

airborne_artist

12th October 2007, 09:47

GT - I have it on VHS tape. Happy to mail it to you if you pop a donation into an RBL or RAFA collecting tin.

The Helpful Stacker

12th October 2007, 09:53

If you look back through this thread you'll see links I posted to the BBC Watch Again service (for UK users) and also Youtube links for those outside the UK or who suffer under the illusion the Apple make good computers.

GOLF_BRAVO_ZULU

12th October 2007, 10:17

I only saw it the once and on the night it was broadcast, so I may have some memory fade. Early on in the programme, I was mildly irritated by the requirement to suppress the personalised vests OG, presumably on the grounds that they might wind up the brown jobs.

I must agree with everything that's been said in praise of the programme. I too hope that it is re broadcast during a peak (or is it peek!) viewing slot. Needless to say, BZ 27 Sqn.

corunnaviking1759

12th October 2007, 10:33

To all concerned 27 Regt,

As Pte Chris Gray's Pl Sgt, I must say a BIG THANK YOU to all involved on that MERT Shout on Friday 13th, for trying your hardest to get to Nowzad AQAP and the efforts of those on board to save Chris. When you came we were still in a TIC, which lasted about 4.5hrs and I beleive you took a bit of incoming fire, as our CSM reported.

As a ground commander you do not see that side of things, when it all goes noisey for us on the ground, It was a very good insight into your world, its not all rosey as us sqauddies like to think about you Bryl Cream Boys.

Once again cheers guys for your efforts that day and throughout your TOD. Home and back safe now.

Regards

SI Panter
3(Corunna)Pl
A(fighting ninth)Coy
1 R Anglian

Watch Sky One in Nov, Ross Kemp in Afghanistan he spent a year filming with us.

Chugalug2

12th October 2007, 11:51

Rest in Peace Chris Gray. I hope that a presentation copy of this prog. can be given to your NoK, so that they might see, as you know, the outstanding efforts made by all concerned to save you. Feather in the Cap for BBC Northern Ireland and Olly Lambert et al who filmed and produced it, and shared an obvious empathy with those they filmed. Black Eye for BBC Central who obviously don't, witness back end of schedule for screening. Many congrats, of course, for all the guys and gals doing such dangerous and skilled work on our behalf out there, and in particular to those of "the 27th Squadron" featured!
Finally thanks to Rakshasha for bringing this excellent prog to our attention and THS for the BBCi Player link so that we could watch it. As has been said, perhaps the best effect has been that the PBI can see in detail the enormous effort that is put in to support them, as per cv1759's post above. As to the politicians and beancounters, the words Horses and Water come to mind. Pity though that the viewers, who paid for it, were largely denied the chance to see it, but then we're back to Beeb Central and its agenda I'm afraid.

Rakshasa

12th October 2007, 14:04

Thanks Chug, though I think the kudos should go to Gainsey, who did post a heads up about it in advance. I just stumbled across the prog and thought I'd let Ppruners know it was on.

And well done to 27 and the Vikings and all the other boys and girls who are (or have been) stuck out in sandy places.

F'Wx

12th October 2007, 14:35

Remember quite a few of the guys from my time on 18... Brought back the memories of the past for sure... More of this kind of thing should be on TV :)

Good to see old faces, and the onboard humour staying the same.

Seeing Dave shovel sick from the seat on national television was something to remember too.. lol!

Ill wait for the repeat and record it :)

buoy15

12th October 2007, 18:26

Threatened with my TV Licence renewal again last week, as I have been over the years - I really hate those stealth tax b*stards and the fact that the Wogan's and News Presenters get obscene amounts for providing !!!!!e!
However, it was worth the £135 to help BBC produce a superb documentary such as this, although I watched it on YouTube - Excellent!, with warts and all - puts the likes of "Top Gun" et-al, in the shade:D
How did they manage that without re-hearsals and 50,000 'takes'?

PRO NCA

12th October 2007, 19:02

It was nice to see one or two of the old boys still in there. I would love to be back with you doing what the wokkas do best. I may not be there in body anymore but my soul will always be with you. Take care boys and keep doing it for the customers.

Hueymeister

12th October 2007, 19:29

how does one activate java script on one's computer?

SRENNAPS

12th October 2007, 19:43

Was on 27 in 98. Gutted Thurs morning when I found out about the Prog. Just watched it on You Tube. Big thanks for the link.

So proud of the job they are doing.

So sad about Chris.

Rakshasa

13th October 2007, 01:08

HueyMeister, If you're using XP... bottom right of your desktop by the clock should be the shield thingy for internet options. Click it and then click on the Internet Options icon. Enabling Java scripts should be one on the check box options.

(Careful though, scripts can be used maliciously - though most sites just use em for mundane stuff.)

Duckandcover

13th October 2007, 05:16

Great programme, sat watching it with two US colleagues in the office. V.Moving and should have given some people a wake-up call.

As for Padders...

Guardian review: And will someone please go on a date with Dan "Padders" Padbury. Look beyond the exclamation marks! Ignore the annoying way he laughs at his own jokes. This man knows how to fly a big helicopter while men try to shoot him down.

I bet he's had to sandbag his account.

F'Wx

13th October 2007, 07:13

Its not all bad for Padders... After all, with the state of WRAFs at Odiham when i was there for a few years, he's not missing out on much! :}

Cant imagine the amount of stick he's getting in the mess from the other guys! haha!

klingonbc

13th October 2007, 23:46

At last, tonight I got to watch the 27 Sqn documentary. Ollie you should dine and drink for free for ever in my book - well done mate. What a brilliant insight into the life of the SH mates. My time on SH was some years ago but I lived every moment with them during that programme - it brought back so many memories - especially the casevac rapid start and trying to get more knots out of the cab because some poor bugger in the back needed it. Ignore the comments on this thread about the lack of groundcrew storyline - aircrew / groundcrew on SH all know and respect their part in the team, even if it is not apparent. My greatest joy on SH was the aftermath of flying on ops regularly over a year with a Very Senior Officer. His final debrief and letter of thanks focussed on his one greatest lesson - he was a single seat fast jet pilot - and he said that he never realised how important the Crewman was to operating the SH. Night/NVG into fields and confined areas taught him crew cooperation. It was electrifying to hear that same style of intercom patter between the crew in this documentary. Well done all - you are maintaining a long tradition of SH excellence. Great to see Stradz - mate you still owe me that bloody photo!! Circa 1998! Condolences to young Chris's Family and loved ones - RIP. Keep up the good work. Klingonbc.

wokkadriver

14th October 2007, 22:29

"By the way, what was the audio alarm sounding just before every landing? Seemed a bit low for the radalt."

Yes, it was the radalt. Typically set to 40' for dust landings.

Mmmmnice

15th October 2007, 16:11

different folk have different opinions on what constitutes 'low' - sometimes even 40' felt a tad too high! ........we're all descended from burrowing creatures dontchaknow.

Great job Olly

Thud_and_ Blunder - you clearly know me - drop me a PM?

Tigs2

15th October 2007, 19:22

Just great, loved it. Thanks for the thread, I missed the programme last week.:ok:

Stupidbutsaveable

16th October 2007, 09:51

I left the SH Force recently to check the colour of the grass elsewhere. On the whole I don't regret leaving and am enjoying a different lifestyle.

However.......I was on the edge of my comfy armchair flicking every switch with a lump in the throat remembering why I loved the job. Good drills.

Mind you, there must have been some careful editing regarding the various merits of Natasha etc; or else Rude Crewman was off sick.

R.I.P Viking

Guzlin Adnams

16th October 2007, 20:01

I'm glad to report that the BBC's local early evening news programme for East Anglia, Look East had as its main theme this evening the return of the Vikings to their families and friends. All mentioned those that had fallen in combat. What struck me was the attitude of two young soldiers who had been badly wounded in action, on the same day. One had lost a lower leg thanks to a land mine, the other had taken a grenade and still had some of it in his heart. I'd be proud to be associated with them! With so many idiots doing nothing but wasting good oxygen in this country why oh why don't the powers that be treat those who deserve respect with the same. On the same programme it was reported that a half blind eighty year old lady had been robbed by three oxygen wasters demanding money for their drugs. Makes you think doesn't it.
Still well done Look East for making us think here in Viking country.

MightyGem

17th October 2007, 12:49

Yes, it was the radalt. Typically set to 40' for dust landings
Thanks wokkadriver.

wokkameister

17th October 2007, 18:13

Mind you, there must have been some careful editing regarding the various merits of Natasha etc;

Never known a crewman yet that you could 'carefully edit', especially Dave!

WM

South Bound

18th October 2007, 20:43

Just got round to watching it, so apologies for being late with my view.

Even though I was there just before that particular flt, I am gobsmacked at how it made me feel. I cannot speak highly enough of all the boys and girls in the SH world - you are nothing like I expected you to be, but you are the reason I signed up, even though I didn't know it at the time.

I will be proud to show this to my children when they are old enough, not to say 'I did it', because I didn't. More to say that I knew them and saw what they did and was proud to be associated with them.

Great programme, great people, raising a glass now in memory of those for which 170kts was not enough.

Never Alert

18th October 2007, 21:12

Well said mate.

thepurplepheonix

20th October 2007, 21:04

Can anyone supply a copy on DVD? Our entire course missed it and would deeply appreciate a copy for obvious reasons. As you know the work 'net won't let us watch it on youtube. Can supply details on PM and happy to make a contribution to SSAFA/RAFBF for a dvd burn.

Rgds
TPP

Lamenting Navigator

21st October 2007, 07:43

I only caught the programme yesterday. Bloody marvellous piece, made a superb change from the dross the media usually pushes out about what we're doing overseas (funny old thing...!). Worth a year's telly tax and a brave move by the decision makers to allow the media in. It paid off.

Dunhovrin

21st October 2007, 11:16

This might be useful...
http://www.methodshop.com/gadgets/tutorials/youtuberip/
Works for mac.

November4

21st October 2007, 14:26

I use Tech Crunch (http://www.techcrunch.com/get-youtube-movie/) to download stuff from YouTube.

You need to add .vlc to the file name once it is save abd watch the clip in somthing like vlc Media player (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/)

Ingrid1975

22nd October 2007, 08:46

Did anyone record the programme??
Thanks
Ingrid

FrogPrince

22nd October 2007, 18:13

I was mobilised to work in JHF(A) whilst Ollie was recording this programme. To a man the 27 Sqn lot were brilliant, as you might expect - except for the day they left me to perambulate with bergan and kitbag from JHF(A) Main to Little Heathrow for a cab ride to Camp Bastion....

Ollie is extremely professional - an award winner in his trade - and a real gent to boot. His back catalogue includes the 'Tea Boy of Gaza' and 'Hypersex: The Story of a Sex Addict’ !

This video has now been put in a very special place on the FP lilypad for posterity: so many cracking people - AAC, RAF, attached arms - an honour to have served.

FP

thepurplepheonix

22nd October 2007, 19:19

Thanks for all your help folks - copy secured. Fly safe all.

Rgds
TPP and Course!

corunnaviking1759

23rd October 2007, 19:47

As promised, official details of the Freedom Marches for 1 R Anglian. The following Call to Arms has been put out by RHQ. I hope all in East Anglia who can, will respond:

The 1st Battalion will exercise their right to the Freedoms of Norwich on 22 Nov (1400-1515 hrs) and Bury St Edmunds on 23 Nov (1130-1245 hrs).

Regimental Secretary Norfolk is responsible for the organization of both events, the details of which are as follows:

• Norwich.
o Date: Thursday 22nd November
o Timings: 1400-1515 hours
o Route: Parade City Hall. March Gaol Hill, London St, Queens St, Tombland, Cathedral West Porch.

• Bury St Edmunds.
o Date: Friday 23rd November
o Timings: 1130-1245 hours
o Route: Parade Angel Hill. March Churchgate St, Guildhall St, Abbeygate St, Angel Hill, Abbey Gate.

Ensuring that the Vikings are welcomed home in a manner befitting their valiant deeds and considerable sacrifice will require your personal support and, where possible, your attendance. It will also require the support and attendance of the general public.

A Regimental Call to Arms has therefore been sounded; it contains a simple message: “The 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, known as the Vikings, have just returned from a 6 month operational tour in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. This magnificent fighting Battalion, representing the very best of East Anglia, has been taking the battle to the Taliban in arguably the most intensive war fighting campaign for over 50 years. Tragically, 9 of these brave young men have been killed in action in the service of their Country; many more have been wounded, some grievously.

The Head of the British Army, General Sir Richard Dannatt, is increasingly concerned about the growing gulf between the Army and the Nation. He has contrasted the outstanding appreciation that America gives to its armed forces with that of the UK, where we still have people objecting to a home for our wounded soldiers’ families. He has wondered how many local Battalions will be given homecoming parades when they return from operations.

Lt Col Stuart Carver, the Commanding Officer of the Vikings, has asked for a public show of support to demonstrate to our young soldiers that people at home understand and appreciate the sacrifices they have made. He would like to think that General Dannatt has nothing to fear – in East Anglia anyway.

"I intend to stand in the street to welcome home our soldiers. Who will stand with me?”

This message has been distributed to newspapers throughout East Anglia who may or may not choose to publish it; it is also being distributed as an email on the Regimental Email Address List; feel free to personalize it and

pedroalpha

25th October 2007, 18:29

BBC watch again now does not carry this. Please, can anyone supply a copy on DVD? Cost no option. I would really love to see the programme.

Ex wokka mate

airborne_artist

25th October 2007, 19:27

Pedroalpha

Give thepurplephoenix a nudge (see further up the thread). I sent him the VHS copy I had. He may a) have finished with it or b) make you a copy for a small donation.

Dominoe

25th October 2007, 22:14

I have said documentary on a DVD RAM disc. Spoke to a mate in the bar who said he could record from the DVD onto his hard drive and then burn onto recordable DVD`s. All a bit too cwevver for me. So if possible I`m willing to attempt making DVD copies if anybody still wants them. Going away tomorrow for a week so not avail from me until Monday 5th Dec.
I`ll make the copies free and even post them - but perhaps I might invite those that want a copy to consider making a donation of, say a tenner, to "Help for Heroes"? Seem reasonable or not? Let me know.

Wycombe

26th October 2007, 08:09

I have a DVD copy (well, out on loan currently but will soon be back).

PM me if you're still looking.

Al R

26th October 2007, 08:45

Viking1751 said: As promised, official details of the Freedom Marches for 1 R Anglian. The following Call to Arms has been put out by RHQ. I hope all in East Anglia who can, will respond:

The 1st Battalion will exercise their right to the Freedoms of Norwich on 22 Nov (1400-1515 hrs) and Bury St Edmunds on 23 Nov (1130-1245 hrs).

A Regimental Call to Arms has therefore been sounded; it contains a simple message: “The 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, known as the Vikings, have just returned from a 6 month operational tour in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. This magnificent fighting Battalion, representing the very best of East Anglia, has been taking the battle to the Taliban in arguably the most intensive war fighting campaign for over 50 years. Tragically, 9 of these brave young men have been killed in action in the service of their Country; many more have been wounded, some grievously.

Lt Col Stuart Carver, the Commanding Officer of the Vikings, has asked for a public show of support to demonstrate to our young soldiers that people at home understand and appreciate the sacrifices they have made. He would like to think that General Dannatt has nothing to fear – in East Anglia anyway.

"I intend to stand in the street to welcome home our soldiers. Who will stand with me?”

I'll be there Viking, thanks.. probably the BsE one mate. If anyone from the P'boro and general environs area would like a lift, please feel free to get in touch.