June 1944. 1.5 million Allied soldiers stand poised to embark on the largest amphibious assault in military history. For tens of thousands of young American soldiers in particular, this war against the Nazis seems like an adventure. Most are overseas for the first time, and few have any experience of combat. For those bound for Omaha Beach, the baptism of fire will come at 0630 on 6th June – H-Hour, D-Day. It will prove a horrifying and unforgettable experience. D-Day: The Soldiers’ Story features the intimate personal testimony of the men who formed the spearhead of the Allied liberation of Western Europe on that fateful day. They include survivors of the US 29th Infantry Division’s first assault wave at Omaha Beach, the German machine-gunners who resisted them, and members of the French Resistance in Normandy. Expert analysis is provided by Antony Beevor (D-Day, Stalingrad, Berlin) and German military historian Peter Lieb.
HISTORY is proud to present the definitive collection of documentary programs on World War One. Experience the world-changing events from the birth of what became known as The Great War to the tragic, final day where over 13,000 men died. From the first dogfighters and the Red Baron, to the battle of The Somme, John J. Pershing, The Iron General and the Last Day of WWI. In the four year period from 1914 - 1918, the war was responsible for over 40 million casualties and over 20 million deaths. Join the brave servicemen of land, sea, and air as they valiantly fought alongside their Allied brothers in this "war to end all wars."
Over 100 years ago, humanity witnessed the greatest war that had ever occurred: World War I. Nearly two million men from across Asia were recruited to fight in the war. They were Indian soldiers from remote communities, Chinese farmers from rural outposts who worked as laborers, Vietnamese fishermen participating on behalf of their French colonial masters, and Japanese sailors in service of their emperor. But today, few remember them or their sacrifices. From India's Forgotten Army to the Chinese Labor Corp, Vietnam's war and rebellion to Japan's alliance and subsequent imperialism, this program examines Asia's war effort and how it...
Joe English learned to fly a Lancaster bomber before he could drive a car. During World War Two, RAF Bomber Command called upon young men barely out of their teens to fly some of the most dangerous missions of the entire war. In 1943, the life expectancy of an air gunner was just three minutes in combat. For every 100 Bomber Command aircrew, only 24 would survive their tour... Now, Joe English is reunited with the five other surviving aircrew from RAF 625 Squadron Lancaster 'The Lucky H' to tell their stories for the very first time. Joined by other surviving Bomber Command veterans, they provide a powerful and moving insight into life - and death - as one of the 'Bomber Boys'.
Meet the key figures and lesser-known heroes of the United States Navy. With official government documents, extensive combat footage, and commentary by historians and decorated veterans, The History of the United States Navy is a full-scale, full-dress salute to the men and women who gave and have given to America's fight for freedom.