Battleground 278. Targeting Tyranny: Bombing Hitler's Mountain Retreat
Apr 16, 2025
Discover the strategic significance of Hitler's Berghof, a pivotal site for Nazi decision-making. Unpack the daring RAF bombing raid aimed at this mountain retreat, as airmen share their experiences and challenges. Delve into the moral implications of precision bombings and their civilian impacts. Explore the evolution of the Royal Air Force during the war and how these events reshaped British society. Finally, uncover the controversial legacy of the Eagle's Nest and its transformation into a tourism hub, with echoes of history still resonating today.
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Reasons for Late Berghof Bombing
- The RAF delayed bombing Hitler's Berghof retreat earlier due to its strong defenses and fear the propaganda value if Hitler survived an attempt.
- By April 1945, they launched a massive raid as a morale booster, knowing Hitler was likely absent.
RAF's Transformational Growth
- The RAF evolved from ineffective early-war bombing to highly coordinated, protected operations by 1945.
- Allied air superiority was complete, with no German aircraft sighted during the Berghof raid.
Bomb Aimer's Precision Account
- Flight Lieutenant G.J. Campbell recounted releasing a 12,000 pound Tallboy bomb almost dead ahead of the Berghof with perfect accuracy.
- The bomb caused a powerful explosion visible and audible from high altitude, damaging Hitler's residence.