Disaster and dissent.

War is declared in Europe, but in South Africa there is dissent as the country struggles to decide on its own involvement, leading to splits within the government. While some want to stay neutral, some want to join on the side of the Allies and others on the side of Germany. South Africans remember the violence that occurred when a similar decision was made to enter World War 1 and join the fight against Germany. 

As Malan takes to the skies with 74 Squadron his reputation as a leader begins to grow. But disaster strikes and that reputation is questioned when he is involved in the deadly and highly controversial 'Battle of Barking Creek'. Along with a first-hand account from one of the participants, Nick Black takes an in-depth look at the incident that resulted in the first friendly-fire death of World War 2 for the RAF and the unfortunate first 'victory' for a Spitfire.

Protea Rose Originals is Cliff Thompson and Nic Fieldsend.

Narrated/written by Cliff Thompson, produced/engineered by Nick Fieldsend with additional sound design by Ben Creelman.

Notes:

Copyright 2024. Protea Rose Originals Inc. Licenses obtained for use.Unauthorized biography.

With thanks to IWM, The National Archives (UK), McGregor Museum Kimberley, Getty Images, Associated Press, Alamy, Doug Tidy, Artlist.

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