WW2 Pod: We Have Ways of Making You Talk Burma '45: The Forgotten General
Aug 4, 2025
Discover the story of a forgotten general in the Burma campaign and the overlooked legacies of military heroes like Field Marshal Festing. Hear about the challenges faced by the understrength 10th Battalion of the Gloucesters and their heroic transition during brutal conditions. The strategic importance of the Lido Road and emotional anecdotes from the Arakan region unveil the camaraderie among soldiers. Explore how American engineers played a crucial role in supporting the troops with vital airstrips. Relive the intense battles in the Burmese jungle and the resilience of those who fought.
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General Stilwell's Gloucestershire Quiz
- Major Richard Butler recounts meeting General Stilwell who impressively knew detailed facts about the Gloucesters.
- Butler's advance party cleverly ensured the right percentage of men from Gloucestershire for Stilwell's inspection, impressing the general.
Gloucesters’ Role Conversion Challenges
- The 10th Gloucesters underwent multiple conversions: infantry to tanks and then back to infantry.
- Such role changes were common and challenging for units, reflecting the army's adaptability and complexity.
Forgotten General Francis Festing
- The 36th Division was a small, somewhat overlooked British division in Burma with only two brigades.
- Its commander, Major General Francis Wogan Festing, is an impressive yet forgotten figure of WWII.