Tankies: Tank Heroes of World War II episode 1 -The Second World War represented the pinnacle of industrial warfare, with the tank emerging as its definitive emblem. The tank crews, often referred to as ‘tankies,’ witnessed the breadth of the conflict—from the swift fall of France to the arid expanses of the African deserts, through the invasion of Italy, the pivotal D-Day landings, and finally the triumphant march into Germany.
In an engaging two-part documentary series, historian Mark Urban, who is also the BBC’s diplomatic editor and a former officer in the Royal Tank Regiment, narrates the experiences of six distinguished soldiers from a single armored division, the Fifth Royal Tank Regiment. Known colloquially as the ‘Filthy Fifth,’ this unit is celebrated for its indomitable spirit and tenacity in the face of overwhelming odds.
Drawing from first-hand accounts of the few remaining veterans, and enriched with previously undisclosed letters and personal diaries, Mark Urban vividly resurrects the saga of this extraordinary ‘band of brothers.’ His narrative is not just a recounting of historical events; it also provides a critical analysis of the evolution of tank manufacturing in Britain during the war. Urban explores the stark contrasts in technological advancements and tactical approaches between the British and their German adversaries, revealing how Britain, despite falling behind, compensated with sheer perseverance and an unwavering commitment to victory, regardless of the sacrifices required.
The first installment of the series starts in northern France, where Urban introduces us to the ‘band of brothers’ as they face the disarray of the fall of France and the chaotic retreat to Dunkirk. Among them are fresh recruits like Gerry Solomon, a ‘rookie’ tank driver, alongside seasoned veterans like Jake Wardrop and Harry Finlayson, who, despite their youth, display remarkable poise and leadership.
The narrative then trails the tank crews to the deserts of North Africa, the setting of crucial tank engagements that would turn the tide of the war. Urban delves into the strategic significance and the harrowing details of battles such as Sidi Rezegh, Alam Halfa, and most notably, El Alamein—a conflict that not only altered the trajectory of the Second World War but also demonstrated the critical role of armored warfare in achieving military objectives.
After their grueling campaigns in Africa, the tank crews return to England, anticipating a period of rest and recovery. However, they are soon briefed on their next assignment—the invasion of Normandy. As battle-hardened troops, they are once again called upon to spearhead one of the most critical operations of the war.
The documentary is enhanced by extraordinary archival footage, including rare color videos that bring the stark realities of World War II into contemporary view. This vivid visual documentation, coupled with Urban’s expert narration, provides a compelling perspective on the war, highlighting the pivotal role played by tanks and their crews in shaping the outcome of this global conflict.
“Tankies: Tank Heroes of World War II” not only celebrates these heroes but also offers an insightful examination of the technological and strategic developments in armored warfare, providing a comprehensive look at their impact on one of history’s most significant military engagements.
Tank Heroes of WWII: A Forgotten Legacy
The roar of engines, the acrid smell of burning fuel, and the deafening thunder of cannon fire—this was the symphony of armored warfare in World War II. It was a conflict where the tank, a behemoth of steel and firepower, emerged as the decisive weapon on the battlefield. From the sun-scorched sands of North Africa to the frozen steppes of the Russian Front, mastering this new form of warfare was paramount to survival.
The Tank: A Steel Fortress and a Symbol of WWII
The tank, a lumbering beast in its early days, evolved into a fearsome weapon, a steel fortress that could break through enemy lines and change the course of battles. Its impact was undeniable, altering the very landscape of war and giving birth to a new breed of soldier—the tanker. These men, encased in metal, became the tip of the spear, their lives intrinsically linked to the fate of their machines.
But the tank was more than just a weapon; it was a symbol of the industrial might of nations, a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of victory. Its image became iconic, forever etched in the collective memory of the war.
The Human Cost of Tank Warfare: A Brotherhood Forged in Fire
Life inside a tank was far from glamorous. Cramped, claustrophobic, and deafeningly loud, these steel coffins were a breeding ground for camaraderie. Tank crews, bound together by shared danger, formed unbreakable bonds, their lives intertwined as they faced the horrors of war together. Theirs was a brotherhood forged in fire, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dared to fight from within the belly of the beast.
The human cost of tank warfare was immense. Tank crews witnessed firsthand the destruction and carnage of the battlefield, losing comrades and friends in the blink of an eye. They experienced the terror of being trapped inside a burning tank, the agony of injuries sustained in battle, and the psychological scars that war inflicted upon their souls.
The Filthy Fifth: Six Tankers, One Extraordinary Journey
Among the countless stories of valor and sacrifice that emerged from WWII, the tale of the “Filthy Fifth” stands out. This was the nickname given to six extraordinary men from the 5th Royal Tank Regiment, a British unit that fought in some of the most brutal battles of the war.
Their journey is one of resilience, camaraderie, and unwavering determination in the face of overwhelming odds. From the disastrous retreat from France to the scorching deserts of North Africa, these men experienced the highs and lows of war, their lives forever changed by the events they witnessed and the bonds they formed. Their unique perspective offers a glimpse into the human drama that unfolded within the steel walls of their tanks, a story of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who dared to fight for their country.
The Early Struggles of the Filthy Fifth
The Filthy Fifth’s war odyssey began, not with a triumphant roar, but with a whimper of defeat and the bitter taste of humiliation. Their initial foray into the mechanized maelstrom of World War II was a harsh lesson in the realities of modern warfare.
The Fall of France: A Baptism of Fire
In June 1940, the 5th Tanks found themselves stranded in Cherbourg, France, awaiting a ship home after a disastrous campaign. Their mission had been to reinforce the British Expeditionary Force and stem the German tide sweeping across Europe. However, their outdated and poorly armored tanks were no match for the superior German Panzers.
The 5th Tanks were thrust into a chaotic and bewildering conflict, their inexperience and inadequate equipment leaving them vulnerable to the German onslaught. They were outmaneuvered, outgunned, and ultimately forced to retreat, leaving behind most of their equipment and a trail of shattered illusions.
Retreat and Regrouping: Picking Up the Pieces
The remnants of the 5th Tanks returned to England, battered and disillusioned. The old regulars, hardened by their ordeal, were joined by fresh-faced recruits, eager but untested. Together, they began the arduous task of rebuilding their unit, training and preparing for their next deployment.
The veterans, scarred by their experiences in France, shared their hard-won knowledge with the newcomers, forging a bond of camaraderie that would prove invaluable in the battles to come. They learned from their mistakes, honing their skills and developing new tactics to counter the German threat.
Facing Rommel’s Afrika Korps: A New Theater, A Formidable Foe
In the autumn of 1940, the 5th Tanks were dispatched to North Africa, a new theater of war where they would face a formidable adversary: Erwin Rommel’s Afrika Korps. Rommel, a brilliant tactician and charismatic leader, had earned the nickname “Desert Fox” for his audacious maneuvers and uncanny ability to outsmart his opponents.
The 5th Tanks, still reeling from their defeat in France, now faced a new challenge in the scorching deserts of North Africa. They were equipped with new tanks, but they knew that their success would depend on more than just superior firepower. They would need to adapt to the harsh environment, learn new tactics, and above all, maintain their resolve in the face of a cunning and ruthless enemy. The stage was set for a clash of titans, a battle of wits and wills that would determine the fate of North Africa.
Turning the Tide in North Africa
Amidst the swirling sands and scorching sun of North Africa, the tide of war began to shift. The Filthy Fifth, tempered by their early setbacks, found themselves at the forefront of a turning point, their courage and resilience instrumental in pushing back Rommel’s Afrika Korps.
The Honey Tank’s Arrival: A Sting in the Desert
In the spring of 1942, a new weapon arrived in the theater of war: the American M3 Stuart light tank, affectionately nicknamed the “Honey” for its speed and maneuverability. Though lightly armored and under-gunned compared to German tanks, the Honey was a significant improvement over the Filthy Fifth’s previous vehicles.
The Honey’s arrival provided a much-needed morale boost, instilling a renewed sense of confidence in the tank crews. Its agility and speed allowed the Filthy Fifth to engage in hit-and-run tactics, harrying the enemy and disrupting their supply lines. The Honey, while not a game-changer, proved to be a valuable asset in the desert war.
Operation Crusader and Sidi Rezegh: A Bloody Proving Ground
The newly equipped 5th Tanks were soon put to the test in Operation Crusader, a major British offensive aimed at relieving the besieged fortress of Tobruk. The battle raged for weeks, culminating in the bloody clash at Sidi Rezegh, where the Filthy Fifth’s Honeys faced their toughest challenge yet.
Against overwhelming odds, the Honeys held their ground, their crews displaying remarkable courage and tenacity. Though they suffered heavy losses, they inflicted significant damage on the enemy, buying time for the rest of the British forces to regroup and reorganize. Sidi Rezegh, while a tactical defeat, proved to be a strategic victory, demonstrating the 5th Tanks’ ability to fight and survive against a superior foe.
The Grant Tank and the Road to Victory: A Turning Point
The arrival of the American M3 Grant tank in the summer of 1942 marked a turning point in the desert war. Armed with a powerful 75mm gun, the Grant outmatched most German tanks, giving the Filthy Fifth a much-needed edge in firepower.
The Grant’s impact was immediate and decisive. The 5th Tanks, now equipped with a tank that could go toe-to-toe with the best the Germans had to offer, unleashed a relentless assault on the enemy. Their confidence soared as they scored victory after victory, pushing Rommel’s forces back and reclaiming lost territory.
The Grant, a symbol of American industrial might and a testament to Allied cooperation, paved the way for the ultimate victory in North Africa. It was a turning point in the war, a moment when the tide turned in favor of the Allies, thanks in no small part to the courage and skill of the Filthy Fifth.
FAQ’s Tankies: Tank Heroes of World War II episode 1
What was the Filthy Fifth’s official name?
The Filthy Fifth was the nickname for the 5th Royal Tank Regiment (5 RTR). This moniker reflected their reputation for unconventional tactics and a disregard for strict military decorum.
Who was the commander of the Afrika Korps?
The Afrika Korps was commanded by the legendary German general Erwin Rommel, often referred to as the “Desert Fox.” Rommel was renowned for his tactical brilliance, audacious maneuvers, and ability to inspire his troops.
What were the main challenges faced by British tank crews in North Africa?
British tank crews in North Africa faced a myriad of challenges, including:
Inferior Tanks: Early British tanks were often outmatched by their German counterparts in terms of armor, firepower, and reliability.
Harsh Desert Conditions: The extreme heat, sandstorms, and lack of water made life in the desert a constant struggle for both man and machine.
Rommel’s Tactical Brilliance: Rommel’s innovative tactics and aggressive leadership constantly kept the British on their toes, forcing them to adapt and evolve their strategies.
What was the significance of the Battle of El Alamein?
The Battle of El Alamein was a pivotal moment in World War II. It marked the turning point in the North African campaign, halting Rommel’s advance and ultimately leading to the defeat of Axis forces in the region. The victory at El Alamein boosted Allied morale and paved the way for further offensives in Europe.
The Legacy of the Filthy Fifth: A Testament to Courage and Camaraderie
The saga of the Filthy Fifth, though confined to a specific period and theater of war, resonates with universal themes that transcend time and place. Their story is not merely a historical account of battles fought and won, but a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
Echoes of Valor: A Legacy of Courage and Resilience
The Filthy Fifth’s journey was a trial by fire, a relentless test of courage and resilience. They faced setbacks and defeats, yet they rose from the ashes, their spirits unbroken. Their unwavering determination, their refusal to surrender to despair, serves as an enduring testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Their legacy is not just one of military prowess, but of the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, when the odds seem insurmountable, the human spirit can find a way to persevere, to adapt, and to ultimately triumph.
Brotherhood Forged in Battle: The Bonds of Camaraderie
The Filthy Fifth were more than just a military unit; they were a band of brothers, a brotherhood forged in the crucible of war. Their shared experiences, their triumphs and tragedies, created bonds of camaraderie that transcended the battlefield. They fought for each other, supported each other, and ultimately, survived because of each other.
Their story is a poignant reminder of the importance of human connection, of the power of friendship and loyalty to sustain us through the darkest of times. It is a testament to the enduring bonds that can be forged in the face of adversity, bonds that can lift us up, inspire us, and give us the strength to carry on.
A Call to Remember: Honoring the Sacrifices of the Past
The story of the Filthy Fifth is a call to remember, a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom. It is a testament to the courage, resilience, and camaraderie of ordinary men who found themselves thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Their legacy should not be forgotten, for it is a testament to the best of what humanity can achieve.
By remembering their story, we honor their sacrifices and ensure that their legacy lives on. We are inspired to be better, to strive for courage and resilience in our own lives, and to cherish the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that make life worth living. The Filthy Fifth may be a distant memory, but their spirit lives on, a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
