In April 1945, during Operation Howard in enemy occupied territory, troops of the SAS were ambushed by German Panzerfausts. Several were pinned down and they suffered heavy losses. Along came Paddy Mayne who, in an act of suicidal bravery, drove along an open road to reach his men, all the while giving and taking fire. HE collected wounded, returned to safety before again heading out to retrieve more of his men.

For this action, Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery recommended Mayne for the Victoria Cross, however the award never came. Now, many years later, Damien Lewis and others are at the forefront of a campaign to have the decision reviewed. Damien is a historian and author of SAS Great Escapes Four and he joins me to discuss the non award, and SAS stories and ethos.

Damien Lewis Links

SAS Great Escapes Four

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