Operation Chastise - the Dambusters, 80 years on - by Zoom if required

Christopher Leworthy


Region:
Anywhere
Notice Period:
Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:
Hobby and interest, but professionally delivered
Fee:
Free
Category:
History
Updated:
10th October 2023

May 2023 marked the 80th Anniversary of the Dambusters Raid. It is a story of scientific genius coupled with supreme skill and bravery. The talk will cover the whole operation from concept to conclusion but will, in particular, focus on the raid itself, precisely what the aircrews achieved and what happened to them:

  • the background to the raid
  • 1943 - the four challenges
    • the weapon
    • the aircrew
    • the aircraft
    • the training
  • the targets
  • the raid plan
  • what happened - the three waves, the Dutch coast, on to Germany, the attacks, the return journey
  • what was achieved
  • the heavy price
  • what happened to 617 and the aircrew that took part
  • a tribute

The talk has been extremely well received, and has been described as ‘outstanding’. It is truly a fantastic story of courage, skill and commitment.

Views: 467 | Enquiries: 3

About Christopher Leworthy

After retiring I decided to develop my interest in military history. I now lecture on the Battle of Britain most weeks, to a variety of audiences, and have recently started delivering talks on Operation Jubilee (the Dieppe Raid), Operation Chastise (Dambusters' Raid) and DDay. The talks last for around 40 minutes and I'm always happy to take questions. Although I am based in Southern England and for some of my time in South Wales, I am willing to travel within reason, and am also now highly experienced in giving these talks using Zoom.

The talks are designed to be fascinating, gripping and emotional, with enough analysis, detail and pace to engage the audience completely. A number of relevant anecdotes bring the stories to life and the audience is left in no doubt as to the bravery and supreme effort made by those involved. Feedback has been extremely positive, with a recent Tripadvisor posting describing a talk as ‘Dynamic and emotional’. Zoom talks have been described as "stirring and inspiring' and a 'tour de force'. Several organisations have been so enthralled that they have asked for repeats and/or follow up presentations.

I make no charge for talks, but, ask for a contribution towards a supported charity plus a sensible, pre-agreed contribution towards travel costs for an in person presentation.

I am only too happy to answer any questions about whether and how these talks might be amended and tailor made to suit any particular audience.


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