Hi everyone, As rightly pointed out, I mis-pronounced Scimitar. Should be 'Simitar' not 'Skimitar'. I done the narration an hour after waking up and completely overlooked it during the editing. Completely my mistake 👍 Thanks, LfE
What’s the world come too if you have to publicly apologise for a mispronunciation, this is and continues to be an excellent TH-cam channel, you along with “Mark Felton” are leading the way in your military recounts both past and present!! Another brilliant episode and story which I’m sure a lot of people didn’t know about, I remember this happening and the bravery , grit and determination along with that British warrior spirit displayed by our heroic military for such a daring undertaking, I have a lot of ex Marine friends and I’m sure out of respect for them and “Matthew Ford” they will appreciate this podcast. Keep up the great work. 👍👌
I saw a interview with one of the A10 pilots and he said it was the craziest thing he had ever seen,the apaches coming in with the boys on the wings firing their assault rifles. He said he had nothing but respect and admiration for the rescue mission attempt. British Royal Marines never die,they just get re-deployed,so L/cpl Ford is just sleeping until he is called again.sleep well buddy.
If I was in tactical command and the Apache drivers gave me that plan, I'd be like: "Now *THAT'S* something I've never thought of...." Then I'd check with my guys: "OK guys, the Apache are near bingo fuel. The new plan is to strap four guys to two Apaches, go in, land, recover our man, and get out. The other two Apache will provide fire support. Anybody willing to go surfing on an attack helicopter and bring our boy back?"
Sounds like BS to me. They were hanging on to the helicopter to prevent falling off, not shooting. Nothing but disrespect to you for making this up and slandering a dead british man.
Yes, it’s terrible he didn’t make it but at least they retrieved their fallen comrade. If they wouldn’t have gone back so quickly his body would have been taken and used as propaganda.
I spent 12 years in United States Marine Corps with 7 1/2 years on deployment. When I was a young Marine I did some joint training with the British royal Marines and I remember that initially it was a total peacock strutting contest about who was better and more squared away. But within a couple of weeks a very strong bond developed. We had extended our brotherhood to our greatest allies and I have to say that they are some of the finest men I have ever served with. RIP brother.
I read somewhere, that the 4 guys were even shooting their rifles at enemy's positions while in flight. Absolute heroes. Volunteering to be strapped to a giant target landing it in midst of enemies, putting their lives in the hands of strangers they never met, attempting something insane never done before to save their brother in arms. The heli crews too, heroes all of them.
I’m actually shocked i had never heard of this like a pilot saying yeah give me some lads and I will land my helicopter in a shitstorm of enemy fire to save a lad I don’t know
Fucking badass. I know NATO gets lots of flak for political bullshit lately but a bunch of British troops on an american helicopter piloted by Brits is just so fucking badass.
@Hans Sausage The RM didn't at that time at least train for that. So to them it was put a couple of lads on a heli times 2 and see what happens. I think that's what made it impressive
That's absolutely insane to just sit on the side of an Apache. That's some serious trust right there. Amazing that you got original footage. Although it's a shame it didn't have a happy ending, it shows that no one gets left behind and any pains will be made to get a comrade back. There is comfort to be found in that.
@aussiebear22 The really insane part is that one of the Apache crew was missing his lanyard to hook up to the hardpoint on the fuselage, so one of the volunteers was just holding on, wedging his leg out against the Hellfire rails.
IIRC the Apaches had expended most of their munitions and needed to return to base. A new pair was coming in to relieve them, and this was the pair that provided cover whilst the original pair landed.
It happens again in Mali. One Gazelle went down with two pilots and one commando. The commando put the two others on the side of one Tigre before to destroy the Gazelle and be extracted by another helicopter
"Sir, we're out of rockets!" *ka-chunk* "Gunner, what was that?" "A BLOODY MARINE, LAD. NOW SEND ME DOWN TO THEIR POSITION, I WANT TO HIT THEM WITH MY BAYONET!"
Only special men from special units are able to do things so far outside of the box. It's not a wasted rescue operation. To never leave a man behind and be able to return the young man to his loved ones was a worthwhile calculated risk and heroism and love for their comrades in arms is touching and should be celebrated as well as the devotion of the young Lance Corpral Ford who gave his last measure of devotion to his fellow Royal Marines.
GeekyKaze. As a self proclaimed geek, you should know, that gravity is an attraction/affect and not a force(which is confusing for some, because of the common mistake of thinking that people mean a Newtonian force, when hearing/seeing people say “the force of gravity”, because it is not a force(per se), which is why there’s not an equal and opposite reaction, unless it is in the very centre of the mass that is big enough to have a gravitational effect?), which means that it is not, and never can be a pushing force, which is why antigravity is never going to happen........ But, the size of their massive (Steely or Brassy whichever you think that they have to fly into battle on the outside of a helicopter which isn’t designed to carry passengers) bollocks, does mean that trouble is invariably and constantly attracted directly to them, and which, by their superior training they tend to deal with it, in a manner that tends to ruin their opponents day(and life in many occasions), and make the Ruperts happy........ To everyone out there, that has decided to be in our armed services, I thank you for your service, and especially for your bravery, as well as hoping that you get back to the people that matter to you all..........
I was one of the MERT crew that was initially tasked to recover Mne Ford. Enroute we had discovered that unfortunately Mne Ford had passed (R. I. P). We took two other injured marines instead. The standby MERT crew were mobilised to recover Ford. I'll never forgot that day.
I was an LPC for 656sqn AAC on this op - this was a good video think it got it all correct - didn't know Mr Rutherford's name was out there as he wrote his book in the name "Ed Macy". There was a little more to this story - as there often is - didn't go down so well in the ops room landing 2x Apache in the middle of a battle. Hell of a story, some properly ally photos too. RIP LCpl Ford.
@@andrewomalley9694 your brother was one of the groundies favourite pilots, always had time for the lads and time for some banter. I did a tour with him……..654 affectionately called him Trigger-happy-O’Malley as he always came back ‘Winchester’ ;)
This is the fundamental behaviour of British have a laugh and some banter but when your squad mate is out there laid up against a wall in God knows what shape you stop the smiles and banter and you pull absolutely everything out to get that brother back home with a beer in his hand and smile on his face.
@Hammerschlägen M I think Darren was expressing mild disbelief in Khan's claim to have met Marines involved with the operation being discussed. It's not unreasonable to doubt claims like that, made in places like this.
Im sitting here with a lump in my throat after watching this, no words can describe the heroism that these guys had shown to rescue their fellow marine. Thanking these guys for doing what they do will never be enough. RIP Lance Corporal Mathew Ford.
The best part? I'll bet any and all of them would try to insist that they aren't heroes, that they only did what any of their mates would have done for them. Real bravery involves overcoming real fear, and I doubt they had much time to feel any fear - all they knew was, "My buddy is lying, hurt on the ground back over there, and I'm going to get him." Decisions like that are made in an instant - no time for fear to set in. It's only later that it starts to dawn on you what you just did. No greater love hath any man, but this...
Dead or alive, you're all coming home. No one gets left behind. Your sacrifices are never in vain. We will remember your name. Respect. Honor. Take it to the bank. Semper Fi.
Much respect to my British brothers . I wasn’t no special forces but proudly served with the 82nd n loved every minute with those guys . We worked along side with the British dudes and there tough hard fighters much much respect and I’m not surprised
They did everything they could and even if he didn’t live they got him out of the clutches of the enemy. I’m sure his family and friends was thankful for that. RIP.
I'm surprised and amazed at how the Apache even manages to fly with such massive balls and guts they have. Such huge respect for them doing such a risky operation for their men. And for the officers to even allow the operation. This just shows that the men aren't just expendables for their army, going lengths to rescue just a single soldier is truly awesome.
Semper Fi to all our fellow Royal Marines. As a US Marine 🇺🇸 I am honored to be able to hear this story that highlights our commitment to our guys. To fallen LCpl Ford, Fair Winds and Following Seas brother. Guard Heaven's streets, we will see you soon
Thank you for your kind comment sir, as an old limey, it’s bought a tear to my eye, thank you for your service and god bless all marines and armed forces 🇬🇧🇺🇸
As a former soldier and participant of S.O. G. Operations, the bond between soldiers is one that cannot be described or broken. No man left behind! Despite the location and situation, the brave men who volounteered to get him deserve the highesr honor available to them! The coirage and werewithal it took to undertake this mission cannot properly be described, but balls as big as churchbells is a damn good start! My deepest sympathies to the friends and family for the loss of Lance Corporal Mathew Ford...
@@lauralishes1 "the guy" has a name. lcpl M Ford. And yes - he died. But he did so being treated for his wounds in an attempt to save his life. Where they very much did everything they could to get back to him and get him out. Would you say that about a surgeon who spends 14 hours putting someone back together after a car accident? "but they died"..... 'the fuck outta here.
@@lauralishes1 they got their man home, one way or another. As we say in the US Army, "I will never leave a fallen comrade." Would it have been preferable to get him home alive? Yes. However, the goal is to get everyone home, dead or alive. In that regard, mission accomplished, and with extreme flair and creativity. Take care how you speak of those who have fallen in combat. He had a name, and was loved. Reducing him to "the guy" is just disrespectful.
It was in fact a calamity. It was actually a young marine who shot the 5 wounded, including LCL Ford.! The Apache pilots with decreasing fuel, became infuriated at endless delays from the Marines. Their FLIKR infrared cameras showing Mathew still had full body heat, even tho it was very cold on the ground. They believed he was still alive (although he had a serious head wound) Looking at marines lighting up cigarettes and standing around waiting for orders, the Apache pilots took matters into their own hands... I also believe the Marines commander was also relieved of duty in the field. It is in fact the Army Airforce and 4 marine volunteers who pulled this off. They received DFC'S and MC's.
to the pilots ,gunners and squaddies who participated in this operation you all have my utmost respect every person became a target for fire every person gave it all and every person came back
I remember reading Ed Macy’s autobiography ‘Apache’ he was one of the two pilots who was flying the Apaches with the Royal Marines strapped to the sides to recover Lance-Corporal Ford’s body, before the Taliban could desecrate it. All the guys showed absolute true bravery to go back to bring he’s body home.
It was originally a snow mobile called a BV (Swedish) it was then modified with Armour. It is well loved as it literally goes anywhere! Great bit of kit.
Why have I never heard of this before?!? What an amazing story.And there are countless amazing stories like this that few people have heard of.Thanks for all the research you must do to bring these stories to us.They should never be forgotten!
I remember seeing the footage from this. This was definitely one of the most epic and daring missions. It’s so tragically sad that Lance Corporal Mathew Ford didn’t survive afterall though. None the less I’d like to hope they would have done such an brazen op even if they knew he had already passed.
I so much love these vids! I hope some day, we will be able to see some vid on the Dutch Commandos in Afghanistan or the raid of the Royal Dutch Marines on the 1977 train hijacking
Can we just appreciate how liveth forevermore are one of the few channels who focus around the military who decided to focus on something other than July 4th recently. Let alone focus on a British operation. Good on them.
I'm the proud father of a RMC who's in 45 Commando. From personal experience I can say that the Marines are a cut above. Modesty, fitness, bravery and professionalism are their hallmarks - not to mention humour.
Lance Corporal has my undying respect for hanging tough alone and wounded. Posthumously I stand and Salute him his bravery. Takes A Big to hang tough in a situation like that. For the volunteers to sit on an Apachie in flight and tge pilots flying them to rescue thier injured comrade I salute them in thier harrowing yet successful resuce mission. Thats DAMN good Soldiering. Shoot, Move, Communicate.
Sir….. Whenever YT suggests your posts, I know my heart will be full of pride for what I am about to witness, and I will need a moment to contemplate what you will be sharing. It may be 4 years ago or 4 weeks ago. (The crazy TH-cam algorithms post this on the 1th Oct 2024) but the respect for you is timeless. Sir, we bow our heads in respect and as an RAF family we understand what it all means. Peace and love to all our brave servicemen (women) Humble love, respect to all, and on ones knees in gratitude. Sorry it’s 4 years late, but gratitude doesn’t age x
@@fynnla.e You only have to see what happened to gary gordon and randy shughart in mogadishu to get an idea of what would have happened to that Royal marines body had he been left to rot out there.
From the Granddaughter of a US Army/US Navy family, I salute you Royal Military folk, And if i ever joined the military, I would love to have you guys at my back.
Was a good man many a day i spent at his parents house with his younger brother trying to get our bikes sorted, was a sad day when I found out about this and I'd like to thank all who bravely tried to save his life. RIP Fordy
@@fynnla.e one of them rode freeballing it on the way there. Once they got to the Lcpl they used two of their remaining harnesses to rig him under the AH64. Meaning that three of them freeballed it on the way back. Brass balls. Solid brass, mind you.
So I began watching your videos only about a week ago and am happy to say that I've watched pretty much all of them except for one or two and was quite disappointed to see there aren't more videos on here...
And this is why this little island of ours will never give in and show as we have some of the the best soldiers and units in the world and it doesn’t surprise me that the men would want to go back in and collect a fallen brother what was almost a suicidal mission but they never stood the stood forward and took on the challenge. R,.I.P
Just came across this channel a few days ago. Great content. Those Apache images and the story of the guys behind it is incredible to me; really glad I caught your channel just as you chose to cover this series of events. One hell of a set of soldiers, really solemn that the rescue ended the way it did, but at least they got him that much closer home.
I know some of the lads on that job, two were in my group at Lympstone. When the boss asked for volunteers, everyone stepped forward, even several lads who were carrying injuries.
I was on that tour, it was pretty brutal all-round. Some good lads lost in that 6 months. RIP each and every one of you. Gone but never forgotten. Per Mare Per Terram. ❤
4 ปีที่แล้ว +6
R.I.P Fordy!! Per mare per terram. Frazer Perry is a fucking legend of a bloke! this world needs more role models like him.
Just goose pimple inducing. Think all of us wished we could be efficient when helping a friend in trouble but THAT plan evidenced by footage is just beyond intelligent, brave, awe inspiring and beyond all else a true representation of what trained proffesionals can do when a life is on the line
RIP to the fallen...but, the fact that a rescue attempt was even tried, and carried out, speaks of the "badass-ery" of those involved...very impressive.
*DOES ANYONE ELSE WISH THEY COULD HAVE HEARD THE RADIO COMMS FROM THE 2 APACHES DURING THIS ENTIRE RESCUE MISSION??* This was badass & shows how far your brothers will go to save/help a downed brother!!!
I was on comms that day, it was something else and the aircrew were doing everything in their power to get this done putting their lives and careers on the line to get him back. It's a day that I'll never forget, just a shame LCpl Ford didn't make it.
There's a couple of books written by the pilots that give the cliff's notes on the radio traffic. Apache by Ed Macy and Dressed to Kill by Charlotte Madison, both are very good Apache is a little more technical and Dressed to kill feels a little more personal as there are more anecdotes about stuff that happened outside the cockpit.
Good read Have you read his other one Hellfire? Another good read . Dressed to Kill Charlotte Madison She was in another Apache providing top covef...Her other mates called her sniper
Heroes with tremendous courage every single person involved in that rescue thank you for your brave efforts in bringing our soldier home RIP LCPL Matthew Ford ❤️🇬🇧
BRAVO 👏, that is some real out of the box thinking . 23 yrs of serve in the US Army, and never heard of something like this. Just goes to show that you need to take risks.If I was in the field and was pitched on something like this I probably would’ve had a hard time going along with this. I believe every OIC or SR NCO would feel the same. Glad they pulled it off.
@@mrjamescoltman3567 It's a great read. So is Charlotte Madison's book Dressed to Kill. She finished this operation with zero munitions left on her Apache. A first for an AAC AH-64.
Another great read is Dressed to Kill by Charlotte Madison The first British woman Apache pilot involved in the raid... She did three tours altogether and was joined by two other woman pilots there She recounts her role in rescue ...later missions..horrors...bravery of ground troops especially the JTACs..ptsd... loss of friend.. A highly recommended read
Again, your content is amazing and a sobering reminder of the true cost of war. Too many times is war romanticized and it undermines the sacrifices these young men and women man. Thank you again, second video where I’ve teared up. If you set up a patreon I would support you in a heartbeat
I find all the videos on this channel amazing but this one hit me different. Huge respect guys and girls what put themselves in danger that day, you can be proud knowing that Lance Corporal Mathew Ford's last moments was with caring people and not on enemy lines.
Thanks for making such a concise video on this event.. easily one of the bravest wartime feats I've ever heard Somebody _please_ get Combined Arms Channel to react to this
I have always enjoyed watching your videos, love how much respect you give the the brave men, and women in your films.... total respect... never was so much owed by so many to so few....
I just want to point out the Apache is designed for this. There are 2 places in the fuselage specifically designed for people to grab on...for dear life I might add. That doesn’t take away from the fact those volunteers were incredibly brave. And the Apache crew very intelligent and resourceful Amazing! All the best to everyone
Discovered this channel the other week and my god im addicted the way explain things into depth of detail and the editing the respect you give fellow fallen soldiers is brilliant , this channel need millions of subs BIG FAN 🇬🇧
It would have been nice if you had, in passing, included any awards given to those who were in the rescue attempt. Otherwise, as ever another first class video. As a HM Army Veteran I appreciate the "Fallen" to be remembered with all due respect. Thank you.
Hi everyone,
As rightly pointed out, I mis-pronounced Scimitar. Should be 'Simitar' not 'Skimitar'. I done the narration an hour after waking up and completely overlooked it during the editing. Completely my mistake 👍
Thanks,
LfE
What’s the world come too if you have to publicly apologise for a mispronunciation, this is and continues to be an excellent TH-cam channel, you along with “Mark Felton” are leading the way in your military recounts both past and present!! Another brilliant episode and story which I’m sure a lot of people didn’t know about, I remember this happening and the bravery , grit and determination along with that British warrior spirit displayed by our heroic military for such a daring undertaking, I have a lot of ex Marine friends and I’m sure out of respect for them and “Matthew Ford” they will appreciate this podcast. Keep up the great work. 👍👌
Can you do a video on Sayeret Matkal, Israel's spec ops?
Don't give it a second thought.
Regardless, still the best channel on TH-cam !
It's nothing you are building a great respect for what you do.
I saw a interview with one of the A10 pilots and he said it was the craziest thing he had ever seen,the apaches coming in with the boys on the wings firing their assault rifles. He said he had nothing but respect and admiration for the rescue mission attempt. British Royal Marines never die,they just get re-deployed,so L/cpl Ford is just sleeping until he is called again.sleep well buddy.
Do you have a link to the interview. I would love to read that!
If I was in tactical command and the Apache drivers gave me that plan, I'd be like:
"Now *THAT'S* something I've never thought of...."
Then I'd check with my guys:
"OK guys, the Apache are near bingo fuel. The new plan is to strap four guys to two Apaches, go in, land, recover our man, and get out. The other two Apache will provide fire support. Anybody willing to go surfing on an attack helicopter and bring our boy back?"
@@MesaperProductions fairly sure the initial reaction in the ops room was "wtf is this guy fucking serious"
@@Peoples_Republic_of_Devonshire can you imagine a major's reaction..... 'we need to CDT this pilot, he's legit crazy'
Sounds like BS to me. They were hanging on to the helicopter to prevent falling off, not shooting.
Nothing but disrespect to you for making this up and slandering a dead british man.
Christ, even Ryan Air don't make you sit on the outside of the aircraft.
Don't give them any ideas mate!!!
@@aking-plums6985 : They would be supplying you with super-glue and blu-tac at the check-in desk. 😂
@@StevenKeery: LOL No doubt they would charge you extra for those items!!!
Thats only because they are not allowed,lol
Del Lawrence 🤣🤣🤣 👌🏼
Even years later it's still incredible to think that this was ever attempted. It's an emotionally draining story.
RIP LCpl Matthew Ford.
Ian Macfarlane ...amen 🇬🇧🇬🇧
oh no he dead
Yes, it’s terrible he didn’t make it but at least they retrieved their fallen comrade. If they wouldn’t have gone back so quickly his body would have been taken and used as propaganda.
I spent 12 years in United States Marine Corps with 7 1/2 years on deployment. When I was a young Marine I did some joint training with the British royal Marines and I remember that initially it was a total peacock strutting contest about who was better and more squared away. But within a couple of weeks a very strong bond developed. We had extended our brotherhood to our greatest allies and I have to say that they are some of the finest men I have ever served with. RIP brother.
I read somewhere, that the 4 guys were even shooting their rifles at enemy's positions while in flight. Absolute heroes. Volunteering to be strapped to a giant target landing it in midst of enemies, putting their lives in the hands of strangers they never met, attempting something insane never done before to save their brother in arms. The heli crews too, heroes all of them.
I agree. Real men. They are most definitely the pride of Britain.
I’m actually shocked i had never heard of this like a pilot saying yeah give me some lads and I will land my helicopter in a shitstorm of enemy fire to save a lad I don’t know
Fucking badass. I know NATO gets lots of flak for political bullshit lately but a bunch of British troops on an american helicopter piloted by Brits is just so fucking badass.
@Hans Sausage The RM didn't at that time at least train for that. So to them it was put a couple of lads on a heli times 2 and see what happens. I think that's what made it impressive
been done with cobra
That's absolutely insane to just sit on the side of an Apache. That's some serious trust right there. Amazing that you got original footage. Although it's a shame it didn't have a happy ending, it shows that no one gets left behind and any pains will be made to get a comrade back. There is comfort to be found in that.
@aussiebear22 The really insane part is that one of the Apache crew was missing his lanyard to hook up to the hardpoint on the fuselage, so one of the volunteers was just holding on, wedging his leg out against the Hellfire rails.
@First Name Last Name The launchers are empty on the ones carrying the guys.
@@commando552 jesus fucking christ
IIRC the Apaches had expended most of their munitions and needed to return to base. A new pair was coming in to relieve them, and this was the pair that provided cover whilst the original pair landed.
It happens again in Mali. One Gazelle went down with two pilots and one commando. The commando put the two others on the side of one Tigre before to destroy the Gazelle and be extracted by another helicopter
discovered this channel a couple days ago and it’s been a non stop binge if your videos
Just found him today and my sentiments are the same
Same here!
Fr bro same I feel u
Yeah I found him a couple of days ago too. The videos are so well made and are really interesting
Same
Everybody Gangsta until an Apache show's up with two guys sitting on the sides
...how about *Two* Apaches with 4 Royal Marines?!
Bad day for those guys
Also entitled, "How to make an AH64 attack helicopter *MORE* dangerous."
It's an attack attack helicopter
"Sir, we're out of rockets!"
*ka-chunk*
"Gunner, what was that?"
"A BLOODY MARINE, LAD. NOW SEND ME DOWN TO THEIR POSITION, I WANT TO HIT THEM WITH MY BAYONET!"
@@bluecaptainIT noice. Fix bayonets! FIRE!
Only special men from special units are able to do things so far outside of the box. It's not a wasted rescue operation. To never leave a man behind and be able to return the young man to his loved ones was a worthwhile calculated risk and heroism and love for their comrades in arms is touching and should be celebrated as well as the devotion of the young Lance Corpral Ford who gave his last measure of devotion to his fellow Royal Marines.
Very kind words
Insert obligatory "how could they fly with the weight of the balls on those mad lads" comment.
Yeah.... Same as "we sleep soundly In our beds, because rough... Blah blah"
Big enough to have their own gravitational pole pushing away from the earth.
Apaches landing in a hot LZ to physically pick someone up? I believe they call that "Above and beyond the call of duty."
always knew mr hearn was a legend and that he'd done something heroic that he never talked about, now i know the story. What courageous and humble men
GeekyKaze. As a self proclaimed geek, you should know, that gravity is an attraction/affect and not a force(which is confusing for some, because of the common mistake of thinking that people mean a Newtonian force, when hearing/seeing people say “the force of gravity”, because it is not a force(per se), which is why there’s not an equal and opposite reaction, unless it is in the very centre of the mass that is big enough to have a gravitational effect?), which means that it is not, and never can be a pushing force, which is why antigravity is never going to happen........
But, the size of their massive (Steely or Brassy whichever you think that they have to fly into battle on the outside of a helicopter which isn’t designed to carry passengers) bollocks, does mean that trouble is invariably and constantly attracted directly to them, and which, by their superior training they tend to deal with it, in a manner that tends to ruin their opponents day(and life in many occasions), and make the Ruperts happy........
To everyone out there, that has decided to be in our armed services, I thank you for your service, and especially for your bravery, as well as hoping that you get back to the people that matter to you all..........
I was one of the MERT crew that was initially tasked to recover Mne Ford. Enroute we had discovered that unfortunately Mne Ford had passed (R. I. P). We took two other injured marines instead. The standby MERT crew were mobilised to recover Ford. I'll never forgot that day.
I was an LPC for 656sqn AAC on this op - this was a good video think it got it all correct - didn't know Mr Rutherford's name was out there as he wrote his book in the name "Ed Macy". There was a little more to this story - as there often is - didn't go down so well in the ops room landing 2x Apache in the middle of a battle.
Hell of a story, some properly ally photos too. RIP LCpl Ford.
you have to love those on the spot decisions where the top brass does not know whether to convene courts martial or start handing out medals.
I was thinking, some by the book top brass would be having convulsions at the health and safety breaches on this mission..
My brother flew the apache that day.
@@andrewomalley9694 your brother was one of the groundies favourite pilots, always had time for the lads and time for some banter. I did a tour with him……..654 affectionately called him Trigger-happy-O’Malley as he always came back ‘Winchester’ ;)
SO, I am guessing, there was tea, but no medals? Every single one of those guys deserved the MC for that action - at the least.
This is the fundamental behaviour of British have a laugh and some banter but when your squad mate is out there laid up against a wall in God knows what shape you stop the smiles and banter and you pull absolutely everything out to get that brother back home with a beer in his hand and smile on his face.
When I was in the US Army I got to talk to one of the people on that operation... Very solemn conversation...
@Hammerschlägen M
I think Darren was expressing mild disbelief in Khan's claim to have met Marines involved with the operation being discussed. It's not unreasonable to doubt claims like that, made in places like this.
Im sitting here with a lump in my throat after watching this, no words can describe the heroism that these guys had shown to rescue their fellow marine. Thanking these guys for doing what they do will never be enough. RIP Lance Corporal Mathew Ford.
The best part?
I'll bet any and all of them would try to insist that they aren't heroes, that they only did what any of their mates would have done for them.
Real bravery involves overcoming real fear, and I doubt they had much time to feel any fear - all they knew was, "My buddy is lying, hurt on the ground back over there, and I'm going to get him."
Decisions like that are made in an instant - no time for fear to set in. It's only later that it starts to dawn on you what you just did.
No greater love hath any man, but this...
RIP Lance Corporal Matthew Ford and thank you for your service. - one of your American brothers
Thank you for yours 🇬🇧🇺🇸
Brothers in arms always
@LM AO the fuck is Tesco?
@LM AO your hard as fuck you aren't you
Looks like we found the gamma, guys
Dead or alive, you're all coming home. No one gets left behind. Your sacrifices are never in vain. We will remember your name. Respect. Honor. Take it to the bank. Semper Fi.
Much respect to my British brothers . I wasn’t no special forces but proudly served with the 82nd n loved every minute with those guys . We worked along side with the British dudes and there tough hard fighters much much respect and I’m not surprised
What an amazing rescue effort. RIP Royal Marine Lance Corporal Mathew Ford.
They did everything they could and even if he didn’t live they got him out of the clutches of the enemy. I’m sure his family and friends was thankful for that. RIP.
I'm surprised and amazed at how the Apache even manages to fly with such massive balls and guts they have. Such huge respect for them doing such a risky operation for their men. And for the officers to even allow the operation. This just shows that the men aren't just expendables for their army, going lengths to rescue just a single soldier is truly awesome.
Semper Fi to all our fellow Royal Marines. As a US Marine 🇺🇸 I am honored to be able to hear this story that highlights our commitment to our guys.
To fallen LCpl Ford, Fair Winds and Following Seas brother. Guard Heaven's streets, we will see you soon
Thank you for your kind comment sir, as an old limey, it’s bought a tear to my eye, thank you for your service and god bless all marines and armed forces 🇬🇧🇺🇸
RIP Lance Corporal Mathew Ford.
I am in Awe of the men and women of this operation, thank you for your service.
This always makes me chuckle with pride at our beautifully insane, heroic and loyal troops. Rule Britannia.
As a former soldier and participant of S.O. G. Operations, the bond between soldiers is one that cannot be described or broken. No man left behind! Despite the location and situation, the brave men who volounteered to get him deserve the highesr honor available to them! The coirage and werewithal it took to undertake this mission cannot properly be described, but balls as big as churchbells is a damn good start! My deepest sympathies to the friends and family for the loss of Lance Corporal Mathew Ford...
Royal Marines, outstanding job. Semper Fi from your USMC brothers.
The guy died.
@@lauralishes1 “the guy” is lcpl Ford
@@lauralishes1 "the guy" has a name. lcpl M Ford. And yes - he died. But he did so being treated for his wounds in an attempt to save his life. Where they very much did everything they could to get back to him and get him out.
Would you say that about a surgeon who spends 14 hours putting someone back together after a car accident? "but they died"..... 'the fuck outta here.
@@lauralishes1 they got their man home, one way or another. As we say in the US Army, "I will never leave a fallen comrade." Would it have been preferable to get him home alive? Yes. However, the goal is to get everyone home, dead or alive. In that regard, mission accomplished, and with extreme flair and creativity. Take care how you speak of those who have fallen in combat. He had a name, and was loved. Reducing him to "the guy" is just disrespectful.
It was in fact a calamity. It was actually a young marine who shot the 5 wounded, including LCL Ford.! The Apache pilots with decreasing fuel, became infuriated at endless delays from the Marines. Their FLIKR infrared cameras showing Mathew still had full body heat, even tho it was very cold on the ground. They believed he was still alive (although he had a serious head wound) Looking at marines lighting up cigarettes and standing around waiting for orders, the Apache pilots took matters into their own hands... I also believe the Marines commander was also relieved of duty in the field. It is in fact the Army Airforce and 4 marine volunteers who pulled this off. They received DFC'S and MC's.
to the pilots ,gunners and squaddies who participated in this operation you all have my utmost respect every person became a target for fire every person gave it all and every person came back
I got a book written by one of the heli pilots that took part in this mission.
Hi
@@renthal2372 its called Apache by Ed Macy
What's the title author? Thanks.
@@buonafortuna8928 Its called Apache by Ed Macy, its SUCH a good book
@@renthal2372 Its called Apache by Ed Macy, its such a good book
Thanks LFE my father was 3 commando during the 2nd world war. It really does all these brave people justice to have their stories told. Thanks again.
RIP Lance Corporal Ford. What an amazing rescue. Huge respect to those that took part and to those that designed and built those Apaches.
I remember reading Ed Macy’s autobiography ‘Apache’ he was one of the two pilots who was flying the Apaches with the Royal Marines strapped to the sides to recover Lance-Corporal Ford’s body, before the Taliban could desecrate it. All the guys showed absolute true bravery to go back to bring he’s body home.
Check out book
Dressed to Kill by Charlotte Madison
The woman Apache pilot involved
@@gabegrace8333 yes I remember Charlotte being mentioned quite a lot in Ed Macy’s autobiography
The Viking APC always looked so odd to me, its like a taxi but armoured and meant for urban warfare.
It was originally a snow mobile called a BV (Swedish) it was then modified with Armour. It is well loved as it literally goes anywhere! Great bit of kit.
(Swedish)
(APC)
Oskar j absolutely right, my mistake. I’ll correct that now.
They were always used by 45 for snow warfare, then it was noted that they could be adapted to any environment and the rest as they say, is history.
Why have I never heard of this before?!? What an amazing story.And there are countless amazing stories like this that few people have heard of.Thanks for all the research you must do to bring these stories to us.They should never be forgotten!
Crazy watching this video and realising that one of the marines who strapped himself to the apache is your teacher from school
Wow, I bet no one messed around in his classes!
No fucking way
Suggest you don't miss your homework 👍
I can't believe this story hasn't been made into a film. Amazing.
I remember seeing the footage from this. This was definitely one of the most epic and daring missions. It’s so tragically sad that Lance Corporal Mathew Ford didn’t survive afterall though. None the less I’d like to hope they would have done such an brazen op even if they knew he had already passed.
They would never have left him there for those cnuts to desecrate.....not a chance in hell.
I so much love these vids! I hope some day, we will be able to see some vid on the Dutch Commandos in Afghanistan or the raid of the Royal Dutch Marines on the 1977 train hijacking
Dutchland stronk
Can we just appreciate how liveth forevermore are one of the few channels who focus around the military who decided to focus on something other than July 4th recently. Let alone focus on a British operation. Good on them.
Was a sad day when Fordy crossed the bar. Draining. Rest easy Royal 💚
I'm the proud father of a RMC who's in 45 Commando. From personal experience I can say that the Marines are a cut above. Modesty, fitness, bravery and professionalism are their hallmarks - not to mention humour.
Lance Corporal has my undying respect for hanging tough alone and wounded. Posthumously I stand and Salute him his bravery. Takes A Big to hang tough in a situation like that. For the volunteers to sit on an Apachie in flight and tge pilots flying them to rescue thier injured comrade I salute them in thier harrowing yet successful resuce mission. Thats DAMN good Soldiering. Shoot, Move, Communicate.
I love these videos, but I sometimes get choked up because of the astonishing bravery and sacrifice
Sir….. Whenever YT suggests your posts, I know my heart will be full of pride for what I am about to witness, and I will need a moment to contemplate what you will be sharing.
It may be 4 years ago or 4 weeks ago. (The crazy TH-cam algorithms post this on the 1th Oct 2024) but the respect for you is timeless.
Sir, we bow our heads in respect and as an RAF family we understand what it all means.
Peace and love to all our brave servicemen (women)
Humble love, respect to all, and on ones knees in gratitude.
Sorry it’s 4 years late, but gratitude doesn’t age x
i remember the day this was reported on the news, held my breath throughout the whole news report
Very sad indeed, I was so hoping the he would survive the wounds. Such heroism...thank you for bring this to our attention
Just imagine if that was you left there, then just seeing this operation of apaches being assembled to save your ass... definitely makes you proud
Shame is, that he didn’t make it. I just hope he knew they went back for him.
@@LukeBeasto At least he wasn't left behind though, taliban would have mutilated his body
Bullet-Tooth Tony And then used it for propaganda to claim they’re the good guys.
@@fynnla.e You only have to see what happened to gary gordon and randy shughart in mogadishu to get an idea of what would have happened to that Royal marines body had he been left to rot out there.
How quickly you forget these battles. thank you sir!
From the Granddaughter of a US Army/US Navy family, I salute you Royal Military folk, And if i ever joined the military, I would love to have you guys at my back.
Was a good man many a day i spent at his parents house with his younger brother trying to get our bikes sorted, was a sad day when I found out about this and I'd like to thank all who bravely tried to save his life.
RIP Fordy
US - No one is as mad as us.
UK - not so fast, how do you use your Apaches?
🇬🇧🇺🇸
*Every other Nation on Earth* - _"We_ have the best Military"
*UK -* "Could you speak up a bit, please? I can't hear you over the engine wash..."
And the bungie cord twanging in the wind.
@@tetsujin86 which carries their big balls
And add onto that that one of them wasn’t even strapped in properly. So he wedged his foot on the missile rack.
@@fynnla.e one of them rode freeballing it on the way there. Once they got to the Lcpl they used two of their remaining harnesses to rig him under the AH64. Meaning that three of them freeballed it on the way back.
Brass balls. Solid brass, mind you.
What a story...respect from the U.S🇺🇲🇬🇧
Rest easy Lance Corporal Ford. You will be honoured forever, as will the brave comrades who brought you back.
The way you narrate makes everything way more interesting keep it up, awesome videos
So I began watching your videos only about a week ago and am happy to say that I've watched pretty much all of them except for one or two and was quite disappointed to see there aren't more videos on here...
Quality over quantity, which is refreshing compared to most TH-cam trash.
And this is why this little island of ours will never give in and show as we have some of the the best soldiers and units in the world and it doesn’t surprise me that the men would want to go back in and collect a fallen brother what was almost a suicidal mission but they never stood the stood forward and took on the challenge. R,.I.P
"We shall go on to the end.."
I love these vids. Maybe you could someday do "Operation Nimrod" The Iranian embassy siege.
I thought that he already had
Wich one would you pick SAS OR SBS or SRR
S.A.S because of the history and i just think they are so precise in every step they make
Ok
@@JDR71326 SBS way more secretive.
Love this channel. Straightforward and showing bravery at its highest.
damn im glad i woke up early before work what a great start
Just came across this channel a few days ago. Great content.
Those Apache images and the story of the guys behind it is incredible to me; really glad I caught your channel just as you chose to cover this series of events. One hell of a set of soldiers, really solemn that the rescue ended the way it did, but at least they got him that much closer home.
One of rescue Apache pilot was a woman Charlotte Madison
CO: I need 4 volunteers to ride on the side of 2 AH-64
4 Mad Lads: Say no more!
CO: I need 4 volunteers to ride on the side of 2 AH-64
Entire Company step forward: "Say no more!"
" Sir..Can I just telephone Health and Safety for advice ? "
I know some of the lads on that job, two were in my group at Lympstone. When the boss asked for volunteers, everyone stepped forward, even several lads who were carrying injuries.
@@Cdr_Mansfield_Cumming So proud!!!! Balls of solid Brass. Or granite.
I was on that tour, it was pretty brutal all-round. Some good lads lost in that 6 months. RIP each and every one of you. Gone but never forgotten. Per Mare Per Terram. ❤
R.I.P Fordy!! Per mare per terram. Frazer Perry is a fucking legend of a bloke! this world needs more role models like him.
Just goose pimple inducing. Think all of us wished we could be efficient when helping a friend in trouble but THAT plan evidenced by footage is just beyond intelligent, brave, awe inspiring and beyond all else a true representation of what trained proffesionals can do when a life is on the line
RIP to the fallen...but, the fact that a rescue attempt was even tried, and carried out, speaks of the "badass-ery" of those involved...very impressive.
Bless You All!, Thanks for your Service!
You gotta love the Britz,they never stay down,and when down plans get formulated quickly to win...
No one gets left behind. Serious bravery to bring back a colleague, well done lads, best military in the world.
*DOES ANYONE ELSE WISH THEY COULD HAVE HEARD THE RADIO COMMS FROM THE 2 APACHES DURING THIS ENTIRE RESCUE MISSION??*
This was badass & shows how far your brothers will go to save/help a downed brother!!!
I was on comms that day, it was something else and the aircrew were doing everything in their power to get this done putting their lives and careers on the line to get him back. It's a day that I'll never forget, just a shame LCpl Ford didn't make it.
There's a couple of books written by the pilots that give the cliff's notes on the radio traffic. Apache by Ed Macy and Dressed to Kill by Charlotte Madison, both are very good Apache is a little more technical and Dressed to kill feels a little more personal as there are more anecdotes about stuff that happened outside the cockpit.
What a great channel, and way to remember these braves. Your commentary is excellent also.
This is without a doubt, one of the craziest incidents that happened in Afghanistan.
This is probably one of the bravest things I’ve ever heard. Were the lads awarded for their bravery?. Huge respect
Yes. DFC's and MC's pinned on them by the Queen herself.
It wasn't a total loss, they still brought their brother home RIP Lance Corporal Mathew Ford.
You guys are what make heroes.... God bless the Marine Corps.
I read a book about this which was written by one of the pilots, APACHE ED MACY
Good read
Have you read his other one Hellfire?
Another good read . Dressed to Kill
Charlotte Madison
She was in another Apache providing top covef...Her other mates called her sniper
Heroes with tremendous courage every single person involved in that rescue thank you for your brave efforts in bringing our soldier home RIP LCPL Matthew Ford ❤️🇬🇧
An outstanding story. RIP, Mathew Ford.
A wonderful video Sir. A damn fine tribute to British fighting men, giving everything for another in need. Beautiful.
That Marine died knowing his brothers came back for him, amazing men.
BRAVO 👏, that is some real out of the box thinking . 23 yrs of serve in the US Army, and never heard of something like this. Just goes to show that you need to take risks.If I was in the field and was pitched on something like this I probably would’ve had a hard time going along with this. I believe every OIC or SR NCO would feel the same. Glad they pulled it off.
Again and again you produce outstandingly accurate content. I eagerly await the next offering. Tip top narrative well delivered.
Love this channel, easily my favourite. Please keep them coming as often as possible!
"So, what are the chances of us pulling this off ?"
Apache pilot: Yes
"You absolute madlad, go get em' then !"
Total respect for them going back into the combat zone to get him back and i bet that was a interesting ride siting on the outside of a apache
While stationed at 29 Palms, California in 1983 or 1984 I saw a Scimitar; it had been brought to the desert for trials. Semper Fidelis.
Your uploads are always a treat
Anyone else read Apache by Ed Macy? Covers the Apache missions over the area, and the roles they played in rescuing his body.
@Shaun Davenport It's ace!!
@@mrjamescoltman3567 It's a great read. So is Charlotte Madison's book Dressed to Kill. She finished this operation with zero munitions left on her Apache. A first for an AAC AH-64.
@@thehighlander959 I agree. She was the RIP crew and provided an overwatch. Don't mess with that lass!! lol
I read the book on this mission called “Apache”. The air to ground battle and the ground rescue is extraordinary.
Another great read is Dressed to Kill by Charlotte Madison
The first British woman Apache pilot involved in the raid...
She did three tours altogether and was joined by two other woman pilots there
She recounts her role in rescue ...later missions..horrors...bravery of ground troops especially the JTACs..ptsd... loss of friend..
A highly recommended read
@@gabegrace8333 thanks for the heads up.
Again, your content is amazing and a sobering reminder of the true cost of war. Too many times is war romanticized and it undermines the sacrifices these young men and women man. Thank you again, second video where I’ve teared up. If you set up a patreon I would support you in a heartbeat
I find all the videos on this channel amazing but this one hit me different. Huge respect guys and girls what put themselves in danger that day, you can be proud knowing that Lance Corporal Mathew Ford's last moments was with caring people and not on enemy lines.
Thanks for making such a concise video on this event.. easily one of the bravest wartime feats I've ever heard
Somebody _please_ get Combined Arms Channel to react to this
I have always enjoyed watching your videos, love how much respect you give the the brave men, and women in your films.... total respect... never was so much owed by so many to so few....
Riding bare balls on the side of an Apache helicopter into combat is probably one of the most badass things I've ever heard of.
Always happy when a new video is uploaded. My favourite channel on TH-cam 👍🏻
Some gangster shit right there. Massive respect.
Great video. Hope this shows his family that everything was done for him and his mates never gave up. To the Apache pilots true masters of your craft.
I just want to point out the Apache is designed for this. There are 2 places in the fuselage specifically designed for people to grab on...for dear life I might add.
That doesn’t take away from the fact those volunteers were incredibly brave. And the Apache crew very intelligent and resourceful
Amazing!
All the best to everyone
On another comment a dude claiming to be an Apache technician said that was absolutely not true. Have you any first hand knowledge on it?
They are not designed for this at all, those places to hang on for are designed so that equipment can be strapped on not people
Discovered this channel the other week and my god im addicted the way explain things into depth of detail and the editing the respect you give fellow fallen soldiers is brilliant , this channel need millions of subs BIG FAN 🇬🇧
It would have been nice if you had, in passing, included any awards given to those who were in the rescue attempt. Otherwise, as ever another first class video. As a HM Army Veteran I appreciate the "Fallen" to be remembered with all due respect. Thank you.
A quick Google search tells me two pilots got MCs and 2 got DFCs. I didn't dig deeper to see if there were more.
Rip Lance Corporal Matt Ford. Your brothers brought you home 🙏🏻