This week we discuss the role of RAF bomber aircraft as glider tugs in the Arnhem airlift and airborne operations. We're joined by Matt Yates, the Chief Operations Officer for the Vickers Machine Gun Collection and Research Association, and owner of the Chalk Glider Pilot Regiment Collection.
Matt provides insight into the formation of the Glider Pilot Regiment, highlighting the close collaboration between glider pilots, and their tug crews, who were normally seconded from Bomber Squadrons. We debate the challenges and successes of various airborne operations, including Operations Freshman, Husky, and Tonga.
We go on to discuss Operation Market Garden - a complex and ambitious plan to secure a foothold in Germany by capturing key bridges in the Netherlands and paving the way for a rapid advance into Germany. However, the operation faced challenges, including the loss of the element of surprise, intelligence issues, overconfidence, and a shortage of aircraft. The glider pilot regiment and their bomber crew tugs played a crucial role in transporting troops and supplies, but faced heavy anti-aircraft fire and suffered significant casualties. We also discuss the supply role of transport command. The operation ultimately fell short of its objectives, highlighting the difficulties and risks of large-scale airborne operations.
Links:
Arnhem: Myth & Reality, by Sebastian Ritchie

Jane's article: Bring Up The Piat!

Matt's recommendations:

Glider Pilots at Arnhem by Mike Peters and Luuk Buist.

Arnhem Lift by Louis Hagen (a German Jew who fled Germany and joined the British Army)

The History of the Glider Pilot Regiment by Claude Smith.

Arnhem by Martin Middlebrook.

A Noble Pair of Brothers by Wing Commander DH Wood. Gives a full history

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