The Greatest Raid: St Nazaire, 1942

Join Giles Whittell in conversation with Dr Glyn Prysor for the launch of his new book, which recounts the story of Operation Chariot.

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In the early months of 1942, Winston Churchill approved one of the most daring, and perhaps suicidal, missions of the Second World War.

Under orders to attack the St Nazaire U-Boat base, British commandos undertook 'the greatest raid of all', turning an old destroyer into a live bomb and using it to ram the gates of a Nazi stronghold. Five Victoria Crosses were awarded – more than in any similar operation.

To mark the launch of the book, and the 80th anniversary of Operation Chariot, Giles Whittell and Dr Glyn Prysor will discuss the untold human stories of the operation, while revealing how the impact and legacy of the raid was secured by astonishing bravery.

Giles will be signing copies of 'The Greatest Raid' on the night.

Discounted tickets are available for Members of the National Army Museum.

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About Giles Whittell

Giles Whittell is the author of 'Bridge of Spies', 'Spitfire Women of World War II' and 'Snow: A Scientific and Cultural Exploration'. He is World Affairs Editor at Tortoise Media, having been chief leader-writer at 'The Times' for three years and previously the paper's correspondent in LA, Moscow and Washington.

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