Insights

The Heroes of Bomber Command - Gazing Into The Abyss

In this episode of the Fighting High podcast, hosted by Steve Darlow, we examine the men of RAF Bomber Command and the powerful stories that have grown around them. Drawing on firsthand accounts, soundbytes from veteran interviews, and years of research, the episode looks beyond myth and legend to reveal what these young airmen actually faced: fear, loss, comradeship, and extraordinary moral courage. Who were the men behind the statistics, can they justifiably be described as heroes, and how have their stories been told, reshaped, and sometimes misunderstood? This is a compelling journey into history, memory, and the enduring legacy of Bomber Command.

This episode includes archive audio recorded during interviews by Steve Darlow with Second World War veterans. These recordings were made during original research for published historical works and are used here with the greatest respect. The purpose of their inclusion is to preserve and share firsthand historical testimony.

For more details about Fighting High books visit www.fightinghigh.com

Welcome to episode one of the Fighting High Podcast. We begin with a remarkable interview recorded nearly twenty years ago with one of the last of “The Few”, Battle of Britain Hurricane pilot Tony Pickering. Humble, sincere and engaging, Tony recalls his journey from trainee to fighter pilot and his experiences flying with 501 Squadron during the desperate air battles of 1940. Just nineteen years old on his first operational sortie, he takes us into the cockpit, shares life away from operations, and reflects on the strain of relentless combat. Carefully edited for audio, this is a powerful first-hand account of courage at a pivotal moment in British history.

For more details about Fighting High books visit www.fightinghigh.com

In this opening introduction, host Steve Darlow invites listeners into the story behind Fighting High – Making Their Story Our History. He shares how a personal journey to understand his grandfather’s wartime service grew into a deep commitment to preserving the voices of those who lived through the air war of the Second World War. Steve outlines what listeners can expect from the series, including veteran interviews, historical insights, and remembrance, and sets the tone for a podcast rooted in care, respect, and a deep commitment to keeping these stories alive.