D-Day: The Tide Turns – Episode 8: "Suicide Squad"

Hosted by Paul McGann | Released: July 17, 2024 | Produced by Duncan Barrett and Miriam Baines

Introduction

In the poignant eighth episode of D-Day: The Tide Turns, titled "Suicide Squad," host Paul McGann delves deep into the harrowing experiences of his father, Joe McGann, a Royal Navy Commando who took part in the Normandy Landings on June 6, 1944. This episode serves not only as a commemoration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day but also as a personal journey through family history, resilience, and the enduring scars of war.

Joe McGann’s D-Day Mission

The episode opens with Paul McGann setting the stage on Gold Beach, near the former resort town of Paramouche. He narrates the critical mission of his father, a 20-year-old commando tasked with establishing a radio station to provide real-time intelligence to Allied ships ( [00:35] ).

"No plan survives contact with the enemy," Paul reflects ([00:56]), highlighting the unpredictable and chaotic nature of the invasion. Despite facing heavy machine gun fire and having his radio destroyed, Joe improvises by seizing a weapon from a fallen soldier, showcasing his training and determination to contribute to the mission's success.

Stephen McGann’s Detailed Account

Taking over the narration at [04:06], Stephen McGann, Paul’s brother and renowned writer, provides an in-depth look into their father's early life, upbringing in a struggling Liverpool household, and his unwavering sense of duty. Stephen paints a vivid picture of Joe's character—his intelligence, work ethic, and patriotism.

"I had to do it. I had to do it," Joe confessed when seeking spiritual solace before D-Day, demonstrating his profound commitment and internal conflict faced by many soldiers ( [14:24] ).

Stephen recounts Joe’s experiences during the landing craft assault, where under intense fire, he witnessed the loss of comrades and was thrust into the brutal reality of war. The chaos of the beach landing, the malfunctioning radio, and the subsequent efforts to support his fellow soldiers underscore the extreme pressures and split-second decisions that defined that day.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The narrative transitions to the aftermath of D-Day, where Joe sustains severe injuries from a German stick grenade, resulting in over 50 shrapnel wounds ([14:24]). Stephen poignantly describes the physical and psychological toll on Joe, who grappled with what was then termed "anxiety neurosis," now understood as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

"War is a terrible Thing, a terrible, terrible thing. I have never, to the day I die, never forgotten," Joe solemnly stated, encapsulating the lifelong burden carried by many veterans ( [13:33] ).

Stephen further explores the familial repercussions, including the strain on Joe’s marriage and his internalized shame over his struggles with trauma. The episode emphasizes how the unspoken pain and rigid sense of duty often prevented veterans from seeking or receiving the support they desperately needed.

Legacy and Reflections

As the episode draws to a close, Stephen reflects on Joe’s legacy and the generational gap in understanding the true cost of war. He shares touching moments of familial interactions where Joseph’s experiences subtly influenced their upbringing, despite his reluctance to openly discuss them.

"There are so many D Day stories. It was the greatest battle of its age that we'd ever known," Stephen muses, underscoring the collective memory and individual sacrifices woven into the fabric of history ( [33:02] ).

Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

Paul McGann wraps up the episode by acknowledging the monumental contributions of soldiers like his father and sets the stage for the next installment: an exploration of D-Day from the German perspective. Listeners are invited to continue their journey through the multifaceted narratives that shaped the outcome of World War II.

"In the next episode, we follow D Day from the German perspective... Will anyone dare wake him before the longest day is over?" ([39:32])

Notable Quotes

• "No plan survives contact with the enemy." – Paul McGann ([00:56])
• "I told myself, you're already dead. So what you do now is your duty, because you're a corpse." – Stephen McGann recounting his father’s mindset ([04:06])
• "War is a terrible Thing, a terrible, terrible thing. I have never, to the day I die, never forgotten." – Joe McGann ([14:24])
• "There are so many D Day stories. It was the greatest battle of its age that we'd ever known." – Stephen McGann ([33:02])

Reflection

Episode 8: "Suicide Squad" offers a deeply personal and historically rich account of D-Day through the lens of one family's sacrifice and struggle. It not only honors the bravery of those who fought but also sheds light on the enduring impacts of war on veterans and their loved ones. For listeners seeking an immersive and heartfelt exploration of D-Day's human elements, this episode is an essential listen.

Availability

D-Day: The Tide Turns is available for free on all major podcast platforms or directly at noiser.com. To enjoy ad-free listening and exclusive content, consider joining Noiser+ through the website or via Spotify and Android devices.