Operation Fustian – The Airborne Battle for the Primosole Bridge
Sicily, 13 July 1943… The Red Devils of British 1st Parachute Brigade prepare to jump into battle on the Catania Plain below. Their objective, to secure the Ponte Primosole, a strategically important box girder bridge over the River Stimeto. The parachute brigade supported by a wave of Horsa gliders must secure their objective in advance of the tanks of Monty’s Eighth Army. This is Britain’s first major parachute operation, it must succeed. The Red Devils are ready for anything; the red light is on… waiting for green… anything than can go wrong is about to go wrong!
A twist of fate is about to create one of the most dramatic coincidences in airborne history. The Drop Zones identified by British planners for their Op Fustian drop have also been identified and used by the Green Devils of Germany’s 1st Fallschirmjäger Division. Just a few hours before the British drop, elite German paratroopers have also jumped into Sicily using the same Drop Zones.
In the half-light of dusk British paras drifted down into fields occupied by their battle-hardened counterparts. The three-day battle that followed was the only time both airborne forces parachuted into battle against each other. The Catania plain erupted as two highly trained airborne units fought an intense and bloody battle for control of the Ponte Primosole. Using his knowledge of Sicily and interviews with veterans of the battle, Historian Mike Peters will bring the story of the battle to life.
Join Mike Peters in the Museum at 7pm on Monday 19th January to find out more. You will be given the option to book a pre-lecture dinner of of Steak & Ale Pie with chips, peas and gravy in our Apache Café at 6pm. There will be a vegetarian option available.
If you are unable to attend in person, then you can buy an online pass to watch live and join in the Q&A, or watch on catch up at your convenience afterwards. Click on the Online Pass option below - you will be asked to select a session which is a requirement of our online booking system - please be aware, it doesn't matter which session you select because you will be able to view the talk at anytime after it has gone live from 7pm on Monday 19th January. You will be sent a link to view the lecture after booking.
The content of talks are based on the research and views of the guest speakers.
The Museum is an independent charity and all proceeds from this event go towards supporting the work we do in preserving the history of British Army aviation.
Our evening lecture programme is kindly sponsored by
