D-Day: The Tide Turns

This is a taster episode of a brand-new podcast from the Noiser podcast network. Join host Paul McGann as he explores life and death on the most famous ship in history.You’ll be right there on board - setting sail from Southampton, chugging across the Atlantic, striking the iceberg and sinking into the icy depths. We’ll hear the harrowing tales of the victims and the testimonies of the lucky survivors. And Paul explores his own family story, following his great uncle Jimmy McGann - a trimmer down in Titanic’s engine room.Search ‘Titanic: Ship of Dreams’ in your podcast app and hit follow to get new episodes each Tuesday. Or listen at noiser.comEpisode 2 is live now on Titanic: Ship of Dreams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The podcast wraps up the gripping saga of D-Day and its aftermath. Listeners are taken through the joyous liberation of Paris, highlighting General de Gaulle's victory parade. It delves into the fierce battles in Normandy, revealing the logistical hurdles and complex sentiments of local farmers. The devastating impact of Allied bombings is discussed, intertwining gratitude and resentment. The dynamics between American and British troops are explored, showcasing their influence on the German forces, culminating in the profound significance of Paris's liberation.

Discover the inspiring journeys of courageous RAF nurses who set up a field hospital in Normandy. Learn about the vital yet often overlooked contributions of women in the armed forces and at Bletchley Park, where their code-breaking efforts turned the tide of war. Female pilots bravely navigated dangerous skies, while logistical innovations like Mulberry Harbors ensured D-Day's success. Experience emotional tales from the front lines as women transformed their roles and faced challenges, leaving a lasting legacy in wartime history.

Martha Gellhorn, a legendary reporter known for her fearless journalism, and acclaimed author Ernest Hemingway dive into their experiences during D-Day. Gellhorn stows away on a ship to secure her scoop before Hemingway, leading to a dramatic race. They discuss the essential and perilous role of journalists in wartime, revealing the challenges of media freedom versus government censorship. A homing pigeon named Gustav even makes a cameo, delivering crucial messages amid the chaos. Their stories showcase the determination and bravery of those who reported on history's pivotal moments.

Explore the chaos of D-Day from the German perspective with Field Marshal Rommel celebrating his wife's birthday far from Normandy. Witness Hitler's slumber amidst the Allies' arrival and the scramble of Nazi leaders to wake him. Delve into the contrasting strategies of Rommel and von Rundstedt, the challenges of coordinating with Hitler, and the German response to radar intelligence during the invasion.

In this emotional episode, host Paul's brother, Stephen, shares the impactful D-Day story of their father, a British commando. They discuss his harrowing experience on Gold Beach, the heroic journey of a WWII soldier, his miraculous recovery, and the lasting legacy of war and illness. The father's recount of D-Day before his passing leaves a profound impact.

Discover the intense challenges faced by American forces landing on Omaha Beach during D-Day, as they battle against overwhelming odds and risk failure. Follow the harrowing experiences of soldiers, the bravery displayed in the face of heavy losses, and the pivotal moments that eventually lead to success in capturing Omaha Beach.

Follow young soldiers as they journey towards Normandy for D-Day, facing fear and historic weight. Explore the naval logistics of D-Day and Admiral Suburght's role. Learn about Higgins boats and their impact on beach landings. Experience the intense preparations and anticipation before the invasion, including Churchill's decision to stay back. Soldiers face challenges like sea sickness and enemy fire during the chaotic D-Day landing.

The podcast dives into the thrilling experiences of airborne troops landing in France at night, with gliders crash-landing behind enemy lines. Stories include a paratrooper landing on a church steeple and the first British casualty at Pegasus Bridge. The chapter descriptions detail daring glider and paratrooper missions on D-Day, showcasing the courage and challenges faced by the Allied forces.

The podcast delves into General Eisenhower's nerves on the eve of D-Day, his heartfelt letter of apology, and the first Allied planes taking flight. It explores Eisenhower's interactions with paratroopers, the build-up of U.S. forces in Britain, leadership and strategy in WWII, Eisenhower's diplomatic leadership, and the preparation and planning for D-Day.