“The Glider Assault on Pegasus Bridge” (“Operation Deadstick”) was presented by Stuart Atkinson.
Its objective was to capture the key bridges over the Orne Canal and River as part of the 1944 Normandy landings.
Failure to capture these bridges would allow German armour to drive the Allies back into the sea.
Major John Howard and 180 men of the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry were selected for the job.
With the aid of slides and maps, Mr Atkinson explained how they trained for and executed their task. In short, at seven minutes past midnight, on June 6, 1944, the Gliders slipped their tow over the French coast and began their attack. By 22 minutes past midnight, both bridges were captured and the “success”
code words “HAM” and “JAM” were transmitted.
They continued fighting off several German counter attacks until relieved by 7th Parachute Regiment.
An astounding and interesting British story!
The next meeting is on May 6, and is called “Black Buck One”, when Richard Stark will describe the RAF raid on the Falkland Islands.
Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start and the normal £3 door charge applies.
Contact Ron Gallivan on 01527 545450 or email ronnieg33b@ hotmail.co.uk for full details.
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