

The Silent Enemy (1958)
1/28/2022 | 1h 47m 5sVideo has Closed Captions
Navy frogmen try to stop the Italians from attaching mines to British ships during WWII.
Laurence Harvey leads a group of Navy frogmen trying to stop the Italians from attaching mines to British ships during the early stages of World War II, inspired by the life of Commander Lionel Crabb.
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WHRO Public Media Presents Cinema 15 Classics is a local public television program presented by WHRO Public Media

The Silent Enemy (1958)
1/28/2022 | 1h 47m 5sVideo has Closed Captions
Laurence Harvey leads a group of Navy frogmen trying to stop the Italians from attaching mines to British ships during the early stages of World War II, inspired by the life of Commander Lionel Crabb.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
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(film reel rolls) (engaging dramatic music) (chariot hums) (waves lap) (tense dramatic music) (chariot hums) (tense dramatic music) (high-pitched whistling) (tense dramatic music) (waves lap) (devices explode) >> The two battleships Queen Elizabeth and Valiant were sunk in Alexandria Harbor by six men of the Italian 10th Flotilla.
They came from a submarine, but the underwater weapons that they used new, human torpedoes, chariots.
Each was ridden by two divers and each carried an explosive warhead, which was detached from the bows and slung by wires under the hull of the target ship.
Those chariots have altered the Naval balance of power in the Mediterranean.
They may yet alter the course of this war.
Already they've chosen their next target.
Ourselves, Gibraltar, gentlemen, the gateway, whether we like it or not, we're the gateway to the Mediterranean.
If the enemy shuts us down Malta is isolated, so is Alexandria.
The Eighth Army loses its supply route.
We lose North Africa.
So we've got to keep open.
It's as simple as that.
In war most gateways have a lock on them, a lock called security, we haven't, that's the difference.
Let me show you.
Over there in Algeciras, gentleman someone is watching us, we called him the dubious spy.
He sits there four miles across the bay in the neutral country of Spain and he watches everything that happens on this Rock.
He's watching us at this window.
He watches your ships as they enter and leave the bay.
Any questions?
>> But how sir, where from?
>> The enemy has consulates in Algeciras.
Luckily, so have we.
>> You mean their agents over there tell the subs when a convoy arrives and their boys attack it here?
>> Exactly.
>> The sooner we're on our way to Malta the better.
>> Algeciras isn't their only source of information.
You see that air strip down there?
Just beyond it is the Spanish frontier.
Every morning, 1000s of men come down that road, across the border to work in the dock yard here.
Every evening, they go back again into Spain.
We do everything we can to screen them but it's a pretty hopeless task.
>> Thankfully we're only here for a few nights.
>> Well gentlemen, at least now you know the picture You're anchored up here.
He is an anchored submarine net.
We shall do everything we can to protect you, but it's essential you order a sharp lookout to be kept out all night.
Any questions?
>> Group: No, sir.
>> Right, now let's get down to details.
(plane hums) Once we get out of Gibraltar we get a regular air mail from home.
We also get the occasional bright boy from London to tell us how to run the war.
There's probably a Whitehall warrior on this one.
(men laugh) (plane hums) >> Crabb, Crabb wake up.
Lieutenant Crabb, we're here.
>> What is it, where's there fire?
Oh, I wish you wouldn't do that, Mr. Holford.
>> We're over the Rock.
>> What Rock?
>> Gibraltar, of course.
(Crabb groans) As a rule people get very excited about their first view of Gib.
>> Well I'm the exception, besides I'm tired, >> I can't imagine why.
You've been asleep nearly all the way.
>> You couldn't imagine the party I had last night either.
You got a family Mister Holford?
>> Oh yes.
>> You're lucky.
You can keep your farewells for them.
I'm a lonely man, so crowds of people turned up to see me off, never met most of them before, I'll probably never see them again.
So, that's Gibraltar, eh?
What are those ships out there in the bay?
>> Holman: They're a convoy at anchor.
>> And that's where the poor bastards get mines stuck in their hulls isn't it?
>> At ease, careless talk.
>> Never managed to blow up anything inside the harbor.
>> They've tried but we have the situation under control.
Divers, you know?
>> A lot of ships, how many divers?
>> Landing in 10 minutes.
Hang on tight, everything.
If we land this fast, you'll be having a drink.
>> I know the Rock very well.
If can give you any tips, I- >> Well give me one now.
Where do I find the Admiral?
>> At the Naval headquarters.
He's a very busy man but I'm he'll put everything on one side to welcome an R.N.V.R.
Lieutenant.
>> Mr. Holford, I've just bought myself a brand new uniform for the first time since the war started and I propose to christen it properly by visiting that admiral.
Now then, how many divers did you say?
>> Two.
>> He'll see me.
(door knocks) >> Officer: Come in.
>> Have you got appointment, sir?
>> No.
>> Sorry sir, no one allowed in the Admiral's office without first seeing the Assistant Secretary.
Third Officer, Wren Masters, sir.
This is here office, sir.
>> Well, where is she?
>> Inside with the Admiral, sir.
>> Look, if I have to see her before I can go in and she's already inside how the devil do I get in it?
>> Oh, it is a problem sir, isn't it?
Of course you could wait until she comes out.
>> I say, could you tell me how I could get inside- >> Even when she does come out, sir, I doubt that she'll let you go in, not unless you have an appointment, sir.
>> Oh, she won't, won't she?
>> Now you listen to me.
I came out to this blasted Rock of yours to get on with the war and if you think that I hold army of Wrens, FANYs, ATS', WAACs are gonna stop me from getting in there, you're very much mistaken.
>> That's a nasty cough.
>> Are you Third Officer Wren Masters?
>> I am.
>> I wanna see the Admiral.
>> Name?
>> Crabb >> Christian names.
>> Lionel Phillip Kenneth.
>> Rank.
>> I'm a Lance Corporal in the Chinese Army.
>> Lieutenant R.N.V.R, identity card.
Thank you.
Why do you want to see the Admiral?
>> I arrived in Gibraltar one hour ago.
I'm a bomb and mine disposal officer, and I can't dispose of anything until I find it.
>> Bomb and mind disposal?
Oh yes, we had a signal about you.
>> Incredible, can I go in now?
>> I'm afraid not, it's quite impossible.
>> Who says so?
>> I do, Lieutenant quite alone without the assistance of any FANYs, ATS', WAACs, or even another Wren.
>> I'll wait.
>> It won't do you any good, he's far too busy.
Why don't you go for a walk?
>> Ms. Masters, I have not been sent to Gibraltar to go for walks.
Now, will you please tell the Admiral that... Sir.
>> See what I I mean.
(light dramatic music) >> How do I get to that breakwater down there?
>> Well, not being a Flag Lieutenant with an Admiral's car, I supposed you'd walk over.
>> Which way?
Well go around down to the dock yard and out onto the moor.
What's wrong with him?
(uptempo action music) ♪ In the Atlantic are the mad diver ♪ ♪ Diver, keep your head ♪ ♪ Do what you want to under the water ♪ ♪ If you don't ♪ >> Shut up.
Enjoy your dip, sir?
>> Lovely, it's boiling hot.
>> Diver's rum ration, sir.
>> Best of luck.
>> Oxygen all right, Rattler?
>> It it's not you can kiss me goodbye on the bottom.
>> Come on.
(horn blares) >> Are you in charge of this diving party?
>> Well actually our boy I'm the torpedo officer, of a mine-sweeping flotilla, but I like swimming.
So I thought I'd led a hand.
Name's Bailey, how'd do you do.
>> Crabb, I'm in mine disposal.
>> I had to do wrap I'm in mind, dispose bumps.
>> No bombs I'm afraid old boy, we never get an air raid.
Peaceful little place really.
Do you think you could find any mines for this officer to dispose of Knowles?
>> Delighted to, but provided they don't dispose of us first.
>> By the way, this is Leading Seaman Knowles.
>> Sir.
>> How do you do, Knowles?
>> And over there is Able Seaman Morgan, about to dice with the destiny in the deep.
Total strength diving party, Gibraltar, two.
>> What about you?
>> Just done my farewell performance, old boy.
Gotta sail for home and beauty tomorrow.
>> We'll manage on our own, sir.
>> Have you ever managed to examine one of these mines?
>> Oh yes, old boy, they stick them on the hulls with a sort inner tube affair and when you swim up with a knife, cut the tubes and the mines sink.
>> Unless the magnetic and then we just pull them.
>> Of course some of them float out without us finding them at all.
Not surprising, really.
>> It's even more surprising they don't blow up when you do find them.
>> Have you ever managed to take one of their fuses to bits?
>> Give us a chance, old boy.
Three chaps and a whole ruddy bay to clean up.
We haven't got time to tow the beastly things ashore and to set them in a workshop.
Come to that, but haven't even got a workshop.
>> Would you mind if I have a go?
>> What, dive?
>> Yes, this looks fairly simple to me.
>> Bailey: Ever done it before?
>> No, but I can swim.
>> What do you think, Knowles?
>> Well sir, we've all got to start sometime and since you're going back to the UK.
>> All right, Knowles you show him the drill.
I'm late for lunch.
Best of luck, old boy.
Just go down the ladder a few feet old boy and then come up again, it's a piece of cake.
See if you can breathe all right, and Knowles, you better tie a rope around him in case he can't, bye.
>> There now, right sir, this is your oxygen bottle.
Now, normally you just breathe in air through this bag but if you stop feeling short of breath, crack your bottle like this, give yourself an extra whiff of oxygen, right.
>> I see, yeah.
>> Now, naturally you breathe in through the mouth.
So, mouthpiece in, sir.
Bite firmly, slowly.
That's it.
And now the goggles, sir.
Now, pull 'em down nice and firmly.
Give yourself a good seal, that's it.
It's a pity Mr. Bailey has to go.
He was doing a fine job.
So, maybe you can take his place, sir?
Be nice to have an officer around the outfit.
Makes it seem more sort of respectable.
Oh, one last thing, sir, nose-clip on.
Now, you must have that on, otherwise you might breathe in half the ruddy ocean.
>> Thank you very much.
>> Now let's get the rope around you sir.
Now, I'm sorry to do this to you, sir, but we can't risk losing you, not the first day we found you.
Now just remember, breathe naturally and I'll give you four tugs on the rope when it's time to come up, right?
Off we go then, sir.
Now you'll find Morgan down there, sir.
He's only doing a practice himself.
Did you say your name was Crabb, sir?
You couldn't have a much better one for this job, really.
(tense dramatic music) (uplifting dramatic music) (horn blares) (tense dramatic music) (sweeping military music) >> Name?
>> Leading Seaman Knowles, sir.
Naval Diving Party, sir.
>> What are you doing?
>> Pulling on the rope, sir?
>> Yes, I can see that.
What have you got on the end of it?
>> Crabb, sir, an officer, sir.
Is he a diver?
>> No, sir.
>> Then what the devil are you trying to do, drown him?
>> No, sir, get him up, sir.
I think he's coming down now, sir.
>> Miss Masters, about turn.
>> Oh it's all right, sir, he's got his pants on.
Sorry, sir.
>> About turn, Miss Masters.
>> What'd you get me up for Knowles?
I never enjoyed myself so much in my life.
You've got a new diving officer, my lad.
Just wait till I get my clothes on.
I'll get into see that Admiral if I have to take that female dragon and stick her upside down in one of her own filing cabinets.
These blasted goggles are full of water, I can't see a damn.
>> The officer I was telling you about, sir, Lieutenant Crabb.
He arrived today from England to take up bomb and mine disposal duties.
>> Lieutenant Crabb, you should know by now you do not salute unless you're wearing a cap.
>> Yes, sir.
>> The same applies to trousers, put 'em on.
Yes, sir.
>> So you want to take over the diving party and find the mines yourself, eh?
>> Yes, I think it's important to find out what types they are and we can't do that unless- >> Yes, yes, I know of all that or I shouldn't be wasting my time talking to you.
Do you consider your medically and psychologically suited to underwater work?
>> Yes, sir.
>> Why?
>> Well as a properly qualified diver I think Leading Seaman Knowles can best give you the technical details, sir.
>> I don't want the technical details, I want an answer.
Well?
>> Well, sir, you saw his face when he come out of the water.
You can always them then, sir.
>> Right, you've got the job.
Report to my Chief of Staff.
He'll brief you on everything you want to know.
Any questions?
>> More men and a diving boat, sir.
>> I shall like more men and equipment, sir.
>> Yes, so should I.
When you've found a mine come and see me.
Make an appointment with Ms. Masters first, of course.
>> It'll be a pleasure, sir.
>> And Crabb!
>> Crabb: Sir.
>> It's an important job, don't make a muck of it.
>> Crabb: Sir.
>> You ought to be wearing weighted shoes, sir.
(Crabb's voice is muffled) >> It'll be the last time he doesn't wear them.
(engaging adventurous music) >> All right stop looking so pleased with yourselves and get me a pair of shoes.
I wanna get started on the next one.
>> You oughta have a rest in between, sir.
We've got another 18 ships to clear, you know.
>> We'll have a rest when it's dark.
>> I'll believe that when it happens.
>> Lieutenant Crabb, Lieutenant Crabb.
You'll have to jump sir.
Now, sir.
(vessel hums) It's a new type of mine, sir.
I've never seen anything like it before, affixed to Willowdale's port bilge keel.
>> Searchlight on, we'll be there in a couple of minutes.
You all right?
>> Yes.
I don't feel tired when I'm diving.
It seems to catch me when I come up.
>> I know, sir.
>> I'm sorry I shouted at you this afternoon.
>> Oh, that's all right, sir.
All divers have to blow off steam sometimes.
I'd have a go myself- >> What does this mine look like?
>> Well, sir, it's torpedo-shaped and it's got a propeller.
It's attached to the hull by two metal clamps.
There's the Willowdale now, sir.
Morgan's waiting alongside in the diving boat.
>> It's rather exciting this, we usually spend all night stirring up and down, hooping the depth charges in the faint hope it'll get at one of those underwater bastards.
>> If we get that mine off, that's what the Italians will be calling us.
Come on, Knowles.
(boat hums) >> Good luck, mate.
You've got a proper one down there in front of you.
(boat hums) >> I'll go with you, sir.
>> I'll let you know if I need any help.
Is the crew off the ship?
>> All except the skipper, sir.
>> What was your last port of call, Captain?
>> Lisbon, started having engine trouble.
Going down now?
>> Yes.
>> Better watch out, those clamps may be booby-trapped.
>> If they are, you'll know it as soon as I do.
When it's clear I'll secure it with the rope and then you pull it in.
>> Right, sir.
(tense dramatic music) >> That's a nasty looking thing, Rattler, bloody horrible.
(intense suspenseful music) (oxygen-assisted breathing) (water splashes) >> Got a cigarette?
>> Divers shouldn't smoke, you know.
>> They shouldn't dive either.
Do you think those clamps have booby-traps on them?
(explosion blasts) Blast that's swell.
(device ticks) (horn blares) >> I'm going in.
(water splashes) (tense dramatic music) (uplifting dramatic music) >> Thank you for the assist.
>> Steady, Rattler, you got a baby torpedo on the other end of that line.
(tense dramatic music) >> Drop made fast, sir.
>> We'll have to turn it in shore.
I've got to take it to bits.
>> Where, sir?
>> We'll find some where.
You got a cigarette?
>> All right down there?
Did you find it?
>> It's a beauty, Captain.
Just give us 10 minutes to get clear, then you can take you crew on board.
>> Thanks very much, be a pity if we couldn't get our cargo to Malta?
>> What are you carrying, food?
>> Nope, high explosives, good night.
♪ In the Atlantic all the mad diver ♪ ♪ Diver keep your head ♪ ♪ Do what you want to ♪ ♪ Under the water ♪ ♪ If you don't ♪ ♪ Liable you're dead ♪ >> Carefully now, take it easy.
Wait for that next breaker, right, pull.
>> Here's Morgan now, sir.
>> About time, too.
>> I brought the tools and the field telephone, sir.
>> What, in that picnic basket?
>> The tools are underneath, sir, but I thought we'd earned some breakfast as well.
>> Remind me to have you made a petty officer.
>> I think it's caught in the sand, sir.
>> Right, stay here, I'll get it.
>> Lovely place to bring a mine ashore, a fugitive sound, surrounded by barbed wire a the minefield.
How we gonna get it through that lot?
>> I gave up asking him questions three hours ago.
Look at the man, he's like a mother with her baby.
If he it doesn't goes off in his face he'll start singing to it.
>> Keep away from it.
>> You think you ought to take it through the wires, sir?
I mean, they might not understand.
>> Perhaps you'd like to take it to the bus harbor over there in Spain.
I can't think of anywhere else.
>> I thought you'd given up ask questions, Sid.
(planes hum) >> Commander, you bothered the life out of me for more bombs and cannon shells and as soon as I get them for you, well, you say you don't want them.
>> I don't say I don't want them.
I merely say I can't store them here on this airstrip.
>> Why not?
>> Because there isn't any room.
Look, every inch of the runway is jammed tight with aircraft.
They're all full of fuel, I can't risk their safety by lying high explosive anywhere near them.
Oh, Smith.
>> Yeah.
(voice muffled by aircraft) >> I'm very sorry Alfred, you'll simply have to find somewhere else.
>> It really isn't possible.
Good gracious, Crabb, what on earth are you doing?
>> Oh, good morning, Alfred.
We're just enjoying a bit of breakfast.
Here, have a banana.
>> Thank you very much.
You know you're in the wrong uniform.
Summer rig started this morning.
>> And what the devil do you think you're doing on my air strip?
>> We've been carrying out a sweep of mines in your sea, sir, and can't risk any of them drifting ashore and damaging any of your aircraft can we, sir?
>> Why no, of course.
Well good show, thanks so much.
Press on, come along, Albert.
>> Albert: They're very co-operative these Naval chaps.
They realize they're just doing their best to help.
>> Now, I'm gonna remove the clock first and then the detonators, get the phone over there and write down everything I tell you.
>> Aye, aye, sir.
>> Good luck, sir.
>> Go, get on with it.
(clock ticks) Removing the last screw now.
>> We can't get any further away?
If it blows up now they'll have to bury us in Spain.
>> Shut up.
>> Starting to withdraw third and last detonator carriage now and for heaven's sake, keep quiet.
If I drop this one, we've had it.
>> Mr. Crabb, the Admiral sent me to.
(tense dramatic music) >> It's quite safe now.
>> The Admiral sent me to find you.
He wants you to have lunch with him at his house.
>> Then I better go and change into the right uniform, hadn't I?
>> Yes I see, but now tell me how the timing mechanism works and try not to be too technical.
>> Well, sir, the mine had three detonators and two clocks.
The clocks were set to fire 48 hours after leaving port, but they weren't the important part of the job.
That was the propeller and it worked like this.
You see, sir irrespective of the class the propeller would turn as the ship went through the water and after a certain number of revolutions, would explode the detonators.
>> So the ship would blow up at sea and we'd think she'd been torpedoed, very ingenious.
>> But if the mine was planted in Lisbon, why didn't it explode before the Willowdale got to Gib?
>> I don't think it was, sir.
She only went into Lisbon at the last moment because of engine trouble, it would have been impossible for an enemy agent to have done the job from there.
>> You mean it was done here and she'd have blown up on her way to Malta?
>> Yes, sir.
>> But the Admiral has already told us there'd been no submarine activity over the last week.
>> Go ahead, Crabb, say what you think.
>> Well sir, you're the British Consul in Algeciras?
>> Yes.
>> All right, George you may as well tell him our suspicions.
He's guessed them anyway.
>> Does the name Tomolino mean anything to you?
>> Antonio Tomolino?
>> Yes, >> I should say he was the best Marine engineer and designer in Italy and one of the greatest experts in underwater warfare in the world.
As far as we know, he usually works with the 10th Flotilla.
>> You're remarkably well informed, Crabb, but you may not know that he got married a year ago.
His wife's name is Conchita and she apparently needs sea air, so he took a villa for her and built a large window into one of the walls.
The villa is in Algeciras and the window faces straight towards Gibraltar.
They've been there 10 months.
>> And that's a pretty long honeymoon, even for an Italian.
>> Well, if the 10th Flotilla is operating from Algeciras, they must be relying on frogmen diving from some lonely part of the coast.
They can't be using chariots because they'd need a base and workshops for maintenance.
I presume you would have noticed those, sir.
>> Well naturally, so would the Spanish authorities, we don't even know that there are frogman there.
All we know for certain is that Tomolino and his wife are living in the Villa Carmelo.
>> Are you doing anything more about it, sir?
>> Mr. Crabb, you don't seem to appreciate that Algeciras is neutral territory.
I can't just break into Tomolino's villa and ask him whether he has a group of Italian frogmen as house guests.
>> But you do keep it under constant observation.
Don't you, George?
>> Well naturally, I have an extremely good pair of German binoculars mounted on a tripod on the balcony of the consulate.
At this moment, one of my Spanish staff is guarding them.
Is there anything else you think I should do Mr. Crabb?
(lively Spanish music) (horn blares) >> Forzellini, come and have some wine.
>> It's no good Forzellini, they are no women likely in Gibraltar, only monkeys.
(group laughs) >> There is something much more interesting for me.
They are working at the main entrance to he harbor.
Some sort of depth charge projectile I think.
>> That man will never relax until the war is over.
>> Where did you say you found those binoculars, Rosati?
>> In a shop, signora.
>> I don't believe you.
>> Signora Tomolino, would I ever lie to a beautiful woman?
>> Of course, but my husband will find out where they came from.
>> I hope not, as a husband, I'm sure he leaves nothing to be desired, but as a commanding officer he sometimes lacks a sense of humor.
>> And you're exactly the opposite.
As a junior officer you're a clown, as a husband, you'd be a louse, eh Fellini?
>> No one would have him unless she is deaf as well as a blind.
>> In Florence, here is one who is neither and when the war is over, I go back and I'll say to her, "Now, look you."
>> Have you heard from Maria?
>> Yes, soon I shall be going on leave.
For two weeks Maria and I will forget the war.
We will be husband and wife alone together.
Then when I come back, I shall fight all the harder for her sake.
(horn blares) >> How far is it across the bay to Gibraltar?
>> Four miles.
>> I suppose there are Englishmen over there, saying and thinking the same things as we are.
With those binoculars you must see almost their faces.
>> Conchita.
If you don't mind, I want to talk to them for a minute.
>> Conchita: Of course.
>> Sit down, Forzellini, sit down, sit down.
Now, listen carefully.
I've heard a report that a British cruiser is due in Gibraltar this evening.
Our job is to see that she never leaves there.
We shall take it tonight when the moon is at its weakest.
Until we get more supplies of warheads, I can only use only one chariot, Forzellini with Fellini as his diver.
Celloni, Rosati, and Mario will stand by for a frogman attack if other targets should arrive.
Celloni, you will lead them.
>> Sir.
>> You will not be taking part Rosati.
>> But sir, if Forzellini goes I should go.
>> You heard what I said.
Now, carry on everyone.
Leave the house at 15 minute intervals, usual security.
I'll see you all later.
Rosati.
>> Sir?
>> I passed the British constellate on my way up the Hill.
>> Yes, sir.
>> I noticed there binoculars were missing.
If I thought that one of my officers had taken them, I should punish him most severely.
This is a neutral port and I do not approve of burglars.
In any case, our telescope is much better.
But I'm sure they'll be returned.
>> No sense of humor at all.
>> It's our duty to blow up their ships but we're not allowed to borrow their binoculars.
(cannon fires) >> Morgan: What's the latest buzz, Sid?
>> Knowles: Clara Lynn joined the Wren.
>> Morgan: No serious, we're going to invade North Africa.
>> Knowles: Don't be daft, we're already in North Africa.
What do you think the Eighth Army's doing?
>> Morgan: No, I mean, from this end, from Gib.
The Yanks and us, then they'll work their way along and meet Monty and his lot see?
>> Morgan: Who told you, Eisenhower?
>> Now look, there's a cruiser coming in this evening.
>> For your information that cruiser's arriving for a refill before she goes on to Malta.
And even if she were landing the whole American army in Africa, your job is still to get those blasted things ready before it's dark and not stand there gossiping.
Now come on, get on with it!
>> That's what comes of eating with admirals.
Take up bad habits.
(engaging music) >> The cruiser's inside the harbor.
>> Forzellini will find it.
>> Before he left he told me what he called this place.
He said it was most advanced base of our Navy in the enemy waters.
(vehicle hums) (boat hums) >> What are you writing?
>> A letter to my nephew, sir, routine every week.
>> How old is he.
>> He's four, sir, born here in Gib just before the war.
>> I wonder what he'd think of it now.
>> Oh, he'd love it, sir.
Right up his street, all this lot, cowboys and Indians.
>> I'd like to meet him someday.
>> I hope you will, sir.
(siren blares) >> Start firing.
(cannons blare) >> Stop firing, wait til they're through.
>> Steer straight ahead.
(charges explode) (chariot explodes) Look there, look over there.
>> Bring her around.
Stop engine.
>> That's the first time I've ever seen the enemy.
>> Where did you come from?
>> Fellini answer the question.
>> You have questioned me for two days.
I can tell you anything more.
We came from the Submarine Ambra, but now she's back to Italy.
>> We shall raise your chariot.
>> It will tell you nothing.
>> Who's is the captain of Ambra?
>> Don Antoni Dicello Arillo.
>> Where did you sail from?
>> I cannot answer that.
(door knocks) >> Come in.
>> Excuse me, sir.
Can I speak to Lieutenant Crabb for a moment.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Now Fellini tell me this.
How did you manage?
>> Have you found the chariot?
>> No sir, we we're diving from the bell barge all day until it got dark and there's not a sign of it, sir.
>> Well, then we'll go until we do find it.
The warhead didn't explode and we can repair the rest.
It could come in very useful someday.
>> So might a bit of sleep.
>> Any luck?
>> Right Fellini, we shall question you again in half an hour.
Take him away.
>> Please, when is the funeral for Antoni Forzellini?
>> That's a matter for the maintenance department.
They'll dispose of the body.
>> So, they will dispose of it.
>> Why do you want to know?
>> He was my friend, he had a courage.
You work under the water?
So you will understand that I would like to say my farewell to such a man.
(mournful dramatic music) >> Out of of the depths I cry to thee, oh Lord.
Lord, hear my thoughts.
Let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplication.
If thou our Lord shall to observe any cruelties.
Lord, who shall endure it.
(speaking in Italian) (seagull caws) (somber dramatic music) >> Who is that officer in the boat?
>> He's a good man.
>> We found the chariot, sir.
(engaging dramatic music) >> Knowles: Find any mines?
>> Morgan: No.
>> Knowles: Happy in your work?
>> Morgan: No.
>> Knowles: Partner, I'm going to confess something to you.
>> Morgan: What?
>> Knowles: I'm tired.
>> Morgan: So am I, blinking tired.
>> Not so bad just diving every ruddy day and night for a month, but you when you gotta your spare time fixing up this ruddy Italian chariot we captured as well, be enough to make a saint to him and his ruddy halo.
(horn blares) >> We haven't got enough blokes, that's all.
>> That's what I said to Crabbie last night.
>> Said what?
>> Told him we was feeling a bit overworked.
>> You said that to Crabbie?
>> Yeah, they're good.
And why do you want to be a diver?
>> Well sir, our ship gout your signals asking for volunteers, sir, and- >> He's only been in the service 18 months and he's spent nine of them under arrest, absent without leave four times.
>> Don' take any notice of those contact sheets, sir.
Terrible stuff they put about you there, terrible.
You could 'em for libel in civvy street.
You could sir, really.
>> Possibly, but this is the Navy.
Now, tell me why you volunteered.
>> The excitement, sir, the fascination of a a hidden world beneath the sea, the poetry of moving, slow and graceful, like a fish in its natural element.
I've always wanted to try it, sir.
To break the laws of gravity, to fly up and down, or round and round, the colors changing all the time, to be free sir, free, like the birds in the sky.
>> Thank you for coming, good morning.
>> But I was meant to be a diver, sir.
I think it was the whole reason for my birth.
>> If you're not out of this office within five seconds, it'll be the whole reason for your sudden death.
>> Yeah sir, I take your meaning sir.
Oh, well, got to try everything once.
Best of luck, sir, oh, sorry, sir.
>> When the war's over, I'll probably be asking him for a job.
How many more are there?
>> 17, diving's popular this year.
Well now that you've taken over my office, I suppose I better feed you.
Send up some sandwiches please.
(loudspeaker blares) >> If it wasn't for us and our little, old depth charges, Sid, that cruiser over there wouldn't be leaving the harbor.
She'd be sitting on the bottom of it.
>> Cheer up mate, they may work us too hard but now that we've got our flippers, I wouldn't swap them for a leading killicks' job on board that lot, polishing bride work all day just to please some perishing petty officer.
>> Of from one of those men, my guardian angel protect me forever and ever, amen.
>> Here, here.
(horn blares) >> Just off Thorpe?
>> Yes sir >> Very bad luck, but you must obey doctor's orders.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Shore service from now on.
It comes to all of us in time.
>> Goodbye sir, good luck on the way to Malta.
>> Thank you Thorpe.
>> Thank you, sir.
>> I'm sorry to lose you.
>> If you put that cigarette out, serviceman, you might get rid of that smoke screen and discover what you're supposed to be doing.
>> Good luck, Chief.
Hope you get a ship back to England soon as long as we're not in it with you.
>> Where do you think you are, Covent Garden?
Square that cap off!
(horn toots) >> Don't look now, Rattler, but I think your guardian angel's gone on leave.
(horn blares) >> Italian chariot, chief.
>> Is it?
This yours?
>> It's an oxygen cylinder.
>> Is it really?
You were gonna use it, were you?
>> That's right, chief.
It's probably a bit technical for you.
>> What's wrong with your oxygen booster pump?
>> Nothing that I know of, how's yours?
>> You might be interested to learn my friend that I used to be an instructor in Davis' Escape Apparatus and I'm telling you that that bottle is empty.
When did you last change the C02 absorbent canister?
>> 10 days ago, chief.
>> 10 days.
Talk about the Charge of the Light Brigade.
Haven't you read Admiralty Fleet Orders?
CO2 absorbing granules must be renewed after use when the set is laid aside prior to further practice.
You might not be the one to where that set next in case of emergency and you therefore might not commit murder.
>> I know who I'd choose to wear it next.
>> What's your job?
>> Underwater Working Party, chief.
>> More like a suicide squad.
Who's in charge of you, I wanna talk to him.
>> Lieutenant Crabb.
>> I don't think he knows much about oxygen booster pumps either.
>> Then I'll just have to enlighten him won't I?
Come on now, where is he?
>> Don't know, chief, he's usually down here with us.
>> Of course he might be extricating CO2, absorbent granules from the upper middle of foo foo valve, chief.
>> Very humorous, come here.
Take that cigarette out of your mouth.
Now, you've had your little joke.
Now, we're gonna go and see your officer and if we don't I'll give you absorbent granules where the monkeys get the nuts.
Now step lively.
>> That's a judgment, cert it is, a judgment.
>> Thorpe: And bring my suitcase.
>> Able Seaman Fraser, Ordinary Seaman Thomas, I've decided to take you on as members of the Naval Underwater Working Party.
You start training immediately.
Any questions, Fraser?
>> I've done a wee bit of a bomb disposal, sir.
There's not much difference with mines?
>> Not a sausage, you make a mistake, they blow up, same results, exactly.
Thomas?
>> Well, sir we really have got the job haven't we?
I mean, you won't change your mind?
>> Not unless you change yours.
>> Oh, no, sir.
But there is one small point.
I think I should mention.
>> What's that?
>> I can't swim.
>> Crabb: What?
>> Been looking everywhere for you.
See this Chief Petty Officer here's- >> Chief Petty Officer Thorpe, sir, specialist in Davis Submarine Escape Apparatus, sir.
Having just been disjoined from one of HMS cruisers to shore service, I was proceeding through the dockyard and I saw these two mean- >> Specialist in DSEA?
>> Yes, sir, 15 years nearly, sir.
I saw these- >> Discharged to shore service?
>> Yes, sir.
>> I saw- >> You mean you're looking for a job?
>> Yes, sir, I saw- >> Well stretching a point I suppose you could call us shore-based.
Like to join the Underwater Working Party?
>> Yes, sir, I would, sir.
>> Good, I'll fix it up for you later.
You said we were short-handed Knowles.
Well, we've got two new ratings and you're lucky, we've also got a Chief Petty Officer in charge of training.
>> Very lucky, sir.
>> Is it all right, sir, about not being able to swim?
>> Chief, this man wants to be a diver and can't swim.
>> That's nothing to worry about, sir.
Some of the best in the business can't swim a stroke on the surface, you leave him to me, sir.
>> Right, Chief, you're in charge.
Get them into their quarters.
>> Aye, aye, sir.
>> Party tut, right attend, wait for it.
Where are their quarters, sir?
>> Their quarters?
Ah, Miss Masters, slight problem, the Underwater Working Party has no room for a brig's head.
>> Oh yes it has, I've just arranged it.
You're in luck, every modern convenience and a nice view of the sea.
>> Well, where is it?
>> I'll show you.
Follow me, gentlemen.
(Thorpe barks orders) (spirited military music) >> This bastion was named after Captain Jumper of HMS Lemon.
He was one first mean when the British captured Gibraltar in 1704.
>> If you ask me, he would've done better to stay on his ship and mind his own business.
>> Proper little bastion isn't it?
>> Watch your language, Fraser, a lady's present.
>> Here we are.
(engaging music) >> All the modern conveniences and a nice view of the sea.
>> Well it may be a bit primitive but it one of the last two places on the Rock.
>> I'm not surprised, what was the other.
>> The old prison.
The electricity's laid on and it's got running water.
(rocks crash) You all right?
>> Yes.
>> Better turn this off Miss, before you blow up the Rock.
>> Thomas: Sir.
>> Yes.
>> This dog, sir.
>> What about it.
>> Well, it's a bitch, sir.
And well, look sir.
(puppies yelp) >> Good, we'll train 'em to smell out the Italians.
And that cat too.
>> Don't tell me she's got kittens.
>> No Sid, just fleas.
>> Make a nice present for the Chief.
>> You must come and have some tea sometime.
>> Here you go, sir, brought one alone from home.
>> Thank you, Chief.
>> Don't you worry, ma'am, a little elbow grease, four willing volunteers, we'll have this place ship-shape in no time.
Right, all you we're starting out at detonating.
You, you, you, and you, come on, get moving.
And you, come on, fall in here.
(Thorpe barks orders) Now, you two animal lovers fretters and scrubbers.
(Thorpe barks orders) (garbled singing) (puppies whine) ♪ There's no place like home ♪ Wakey-wakey, rise and shine.
Come on, let's have you.
Come on, come on.
You should've started PT 10 minutes ago.
Get up, what's the matter with you, rigor mortis?
Wakey-wakey.
Turn up.
Come on Thomas, you'll never learn to swim in there.
Wakey-wakey.
Come on.
Good morning, sir.
>> What's good about it?
>> Right, your commanding officer you set an example.
So look lively there.
>> Morning.
>> Get out in that lovely sunshine.
Get a wriggle on, what do you think this is a rest home?
Go on Thomas, what are you doing in that bath, drinking it?
Everyone out and when I say everyone I mean everyone.
(Thorpe barks orders) Now then, physical training isn't just for your big muscles.
It's to get your big heads working as well.
(Thorpe barks orders) Now, when I say arms up for a stretch.
I want you to stretch 'em down.
Arms up for a stretch.
Now, what's a matter with you?
Stiff neck, shake your head.
Did you hear anything, rattle?
>> NO, chief.
>> I'm not surprised, all right put your arms down.
Now then, you gotta keep fit.
Diving training starts tomorrow.
(Thorpe barks orders) Deep breathing exercises commence.
In.
Hold it.
>> I thought we'd been trained.
>> Not by a Chief Petty Officer.
(Thorpe barks orders) >> Knees up!
Come on get 'em up.
That's very good sir.
Just another half hour.
(Thorpe barks orders) Thanks very much, sir.
Now we've only got one club left in Gibraltar.
(Thorpe barks orders) Prepare to lift weights.
Down.
(Thorpe barks orders) Look boys, I don't want 'em up next week.
I don't want 'em up tomorrow.
I want 'em up today.
Stand aside Seaman Thomas.
(Thorpe barks orders) (group laughs) Come on Fraser, boy, come on hurry up.
As soon as Fraser gets down there, he'll tell Thomas to come up, and then you two go in.
If you've got anything to say to me say it, don't look it.
>> Look Chief, I'm all for a bit of practice, but Rattler and I were diving operationally last night.
>> For three hours, chief.
>> What's your first name Knowles?
>> You know that, Sid.
>> All right, Sid.
You and Rattler have done enough dips to that's it's not just a matter of going for a swim, right?
I've known divers who've done twice as many as you, more.
Thought they knew it all.
Too grand to take a refresher course and what happens?
One day they're in a hurry, forget the drill, get excited, make too much effort, carbon dioxide poisoning.
Kills them just like that.
It's just a matter of discipline like everything else in this life, and now that I know your first name, I don't want to have to write it on your copy.
Are you with me?
>> Ah, whatever you say, Chief.
(horn blares) (soldiers jeer) >> You in the Navy, you learn to swim.
at the expense of the government.
(soldiers jeer) >> All right, all right now just you remember this.
The Royal Navy got you out of France and when the time comes that same Royal Navy will take you back again, and in the meantime, you all will follow the example of that same Royal Navy and what's more you'll like it.
(laughing) >> What are you looking at?
>> These divers.
They are wearing themselves out looking for mines which do not exist, it's very funny.
>> Good, excellent.
>> Oh, now it's the water boat again.
(yelling in Spanish) >> I am the water boat.
Why you look at me for bombs, I have no mines.
Every day I go to Algeciras from Gibraltar.
I'm going back to Gibraltar.
That is all I do> (speaking in Spanish) >> That's exactly why we have to search you, Miguel.
>> Every day, you make me late.
It is not my war, I'm Spanish, I'm neutral, I protest.
>> All clear, sir.
>> See you manana, Miguel.
(yelling in Spanish) >> Tonight they will have real work to do.
Look at that.
That Navy ship's for Malta, but tonight it will be anchored over there.
We are still waiting for chariot warheads on them.
I hope they are all good swimmers.
The mines can do a lot of damage to ammunition ships.
(dark dramatic music) (bell rings) (crickets chirp) (dark dramatic music) (ship explodes) >> Clear!
(engaging action music) >> Did the others all get here?
We are the last.
(ship explodes) (engaging action music) (ship explodes) (intense action music) (ship explodes) (engaging action music) (ships explode) (tense dramatic music) (engaging music) >> There we are, that'll make your tea taste much better.
Now wait a minute son, drink it slowly.
There we are Rattler.
Just what the doctor ordered eh?
Come on Joe, you get that inside you.
There we are sir, two days rum ration in there.
>> Thanks, Chief.
>> Bloody murderers.
>> Thomas.
>> No, it's best not to talk to him, sir.
It takes some like that first time they've been in action.
>> Quite a first time, three ships sunk.
>> But you and the boys saved the rest of 'em.
I wouldn't call that a defeat in any language, sir.
Here's the transport, sir.
All right boys.
I'll look after them, you get on it.
Come on, my son, up you get.
We're going home.
(Soldier barks orders) >> Bloody pongos.
Excuse me, mate.
(barks order) Look mate, I've got one officer and four ranking divers in there and they've only had two hours sleep.
So I'll be very grateful if you- >> (barks orders) >> I said I'd be very grateful if you'd be kind enough to find somewhere to run- >> (barks orders) You would, chum?
>> Yes, chum, I would.
>> All right, chum, you tell me when they wake up.
We'll send 'em afternoon tea and biccies.
>> Thank you, chum.
(barks orders) >> On the command dismiss.
Fall in 200 yards down the road.
Dismiss.
On tiptoe!
Sorry, chum.
>> It's all right, chum.
(plane hums) >> Don't worry chum, we'll fit them with silencers next year for the benefit of the Royal Navy.
>> Look.
(plane crashes) (phone rings) Underwater Working Party, Jumper's Bastion, Chief Petty Officer Thorpe speaking.
Yes, I saw it sir.
Lieutenant Crabb?
Well, he's still asleep sir?
Well, I don't like to wake him, but- >> What's going on?
>> Hold a minute sir, he's just coming sir.
The duty officer in Naval HQ, sir.
>> Yes.
>> An aircraft has crashed in the bay.
It was taking that Polish General Sikorski back to England.
They want you to go- >> All right, I'll talk to him.
Crabb here.
Right, we'll get going at once.
They found the General's body on the surface, but his briefcase is still down there in the aircraft.
It's full of official papers.
We've gotta get it before it's washed up on the Spanish coast.
>> The lads are pretty tired, sir.
>> I want them all fully equipped and down at the breakwater in 10 minutes.
That's an order, see that it's done.
>> Yes, sir.
All right boys, everybody up.
(boat hums) >> All right, Thorpe.
>> Force stop.
>> Stand by.
>> Crabbe, just about here sir.
Stop engine.
>> We'll go down to wreck of the old troop ship and start from there.
The aircraft shouldn't be far away.
All set?
>> All set, sir.
(water splashes) (bright engaging music) (engaging dramatic music) (suspenseful music) (dark dramatic music) (instrument bangs) (tense dramatic music) (engaging action music) (tense dramatic music) (knife thuds) (engaging action music) (knife thuds) (tense dramatic music) (instrument plunges) (engaging action music) (knife cuts) (harrowing music) (tense dramatic music) (engaging dramatic music) >> We failed, I'm sorry.
>> Rosati, come and eat something.
>> In every battle, someone must win and someone must lose.
You did your best.
>> I lost two of our best men.
>> And someone must die, it's not your fault.
Listen, Rosati, it's over.
There are other things to think about.
After this morning the enemy will know for certain that we are working from here.
>> But they don't know how or- >> No and they mustn't find out.
The British Eight Army is advancing along the North coast of Africa.
Very soon they will land another army over there in Morocco and Algeria and the two will meet.
And that army, or the great part of it will sail from Gibraltar unless we are able to stop them.
What are you going to do?
>> Ask for men chariots, warheads, and then like the British, wait, wait.
>> Wait, wait, wait.
That's all I ever hear, wait.
It's six weeks since I sent in my report about that aircraft and what's being done about it?
Nothing except that you've typed 500 letters and the Navy's changed back into blue uniforms.
>> Crabb.
Shut the door will you?
I sent your report to the Admiralty.
They point out that Algeciras is neutral territory and that the Spaniards are certainly not assisting the frogmen, therefore no action could be taken except on the highest government authority, and of course, it is a perfectly correct decision.
>> But the danger, sir!
>> I'm quite as much aware of it as you are, Crabb, in fact even more so.
The next convoy you in here will probably be the most important one we've ever seen.
>> The invasion force for North Africa, sir?
>> I didn't say that.
I said the most important one we've ever seen.
>> Crabb: When sir?
>> Quite soon.
The Allies aren't prepared to invade Spain for your Crabb, but they will expect that convoy to be protected from underwater attack whilst it is in Gibraltar.
Any questions?
>> No questions, sir.
>> Right, carry on.
>> Sir.
(Miguel speaks in Spanish) >> Well, okay?
>> All clear, chum.
(speaking in Spanish) >> What is this?
>> All clear in here too, Miguel.
>> All clear outside, all clear inside.
You search my cabin, already I'm late.
It's too much.
(speaking in Spanish) I complain to my government.
I complain to the Red Cross.
>> I brought you a Christmas present, Miguel, real Scotch.
>> Christmas?
It's not Christmas for two months.
>> Better take it.
You might all be blown up by then and here's one for you, Admiral.
>> This is straight, on my level?
>> Right on your level, amigo to thank you for letting us search your ship so often.
>> Amigo, good man, Rule Britannia.
>> It not last forever.
>> We drink.
>> I thought you were later >> We are late.
>> Si.
>> So, we will be later.
(all laugh) (siren blares) >> Arriba Espana!
>> God Save King Jorge.
>> Viva Franco.
>> Arriba Roosevelt, amigo.
>> Amigo.
>> Hey, hey >> Ole.
(drunken revelry) Ole.
>> Hey, Miguel.
>> I'll send you a cab, amigo.
>> How much do you charge to take me from here to Algeciras in the morning and bring me back to Gibraltar in the evening?
You understand?
>> Si, si, excuse me.
(speaks Spanish) >> I've got to speak to you, sir.
>> Don't look so worried, Thorpe.
I'm going to pop over to Algeciras with Knowles and found to find out how the 10th Flotilla operate.
What's wrong with that?
>> You haven't asked permission from our authority, sir, and if you'll forgive me for saying so, I'm not prepared to let you go under those circumstances.
>> Oh, aren't you?
>> You're my commanding officer, sir, and I wouldn't like to see you get court martialed >> What for?
>> Kings regulations and Admiralty instructions clearly state that any officer acting without prior authority- >> Dammit Thorpe, don't quote the book at me.
I'm going and you're not stopping me.
>> I wasn't intending to, sir.
But you must ask permission first.
>> You know, as well as I do, I'd never get it.
>> I didn't specify get it, sir.
I just said, ask for it, of course you must put your request in writing, then you've got to see that the bloke it's addressed to don't get it.
See what I mean, sir?
>> No.
>> Nevermind, sir, what time does the water boat leave for Algeciras tomorrow?
>> 12:45.
>> 12:45, right, now then.
In the morning you make a written application to the Admiral as follows, message begins, I request permission to make a day trip to Algeciras to investigate activities of the Italian 10th Flotilla.
Knowing how busy you are and in view of the urgency of this matter, I shall assume that I unless I hear to the contrary by 12:45, permission has been granted and I shall proceed accordingly, message ends.
Mark the envelope, urgent and immediate, and send it by hand, sir.
>> Whose hand?
>> No names, no backdraft, sir.
(lively engaging music) Help!
Help!
(horn blares) >> I may be able to speak a bit of Spanish sir, but well, how do I look, sir?
>> Absolutely terrible.
>> Fine, you look like a real Spaniard.
>> That's very encouraging, mate.
We're supposed to be Swedes.
>> Can you suggest a good place for us to have a drink, Miguel?
>> Try the Cafe Estepona, everyone go there.
All kind of people.
I leave at six, I do not wait.
We're coming alongside I must about there.
Good luck amigos.
>> What's he mean sir, all kinds of people?
>> We'll soon find out.
Don't forget, I can only speak Swedish.
I can only speak Swedish.
>> We'll have us a very interesting little chat.
(lively Spanish music) >> Feel the difference?
>> What, chief?
>> No war, it's another world.
>> It certainly is, sir.
(conversing in Spanish) >> That's not what I meant, keep your mind on the job.
>> Sorry, sir.
>> Look.
(festive Spanish music) (speaking in Spanish) >> Phew.
There we are, sir, Cafe Estepona.
>> Right, you handle the Spanish.
If anyone's listening we talk gibberish, otherwise English and keep a lookout for anyone who looks like an Italian.
(festive Spanish music) (conversing in Spanish) >> Cigarette, sir.
>> Idiot.
>> Sorry sir, never took a course in espionage.
(conversing in Spanish) (conversing in Germans) >> Germans.
>> Quite a little hotbed of conspiracy, isn't it?
Hey, look sir.
>> Can't you keep your mind- >> No, not that, sir, look at his arm, the tattoo.
>> Italian.
>> Quick, drink up, we'll follow him.
And pull your sleeve down.
(conversing in Italian) (machinery humming) >> They look like sailors going back off shore leave, sir.
>> From the way he was kissing that girl I'd say they've been here some time.
>> They're a scruffy looking lot, sir.
They don't look much like the 10th Flotilla to me.
>> I don't suppose we look very much like the British Navy.
(machinery hums) They're getting aboard that tanker.
Let's go and have a look at it.
(yelling in Italian) Look at that.
It must be interned.
(yelling in Italian) >> What do you think is in those drums they're loading?
>> Diesel oil probably.
We'll know in a minute.
(speaking in Italian) (speaking in Spanish) >> Diesel oil, just like you said.
Well we've drawn a blank, sir.
>> There's drums could be fixed.
It all might be in a tube, the rest of the drum packed with something else.
>> Wishful thinking, sir.
(yelling in a foreign language) (dark dramatic music) (yelling in a foreign language) >> Wishful thinking was it, did you see their faces?
>> Blimey sir, there's a lot more than diesel oil in that drum.
>> We gotta find out what's going on, on that ship.
>> Get aboard, sir, they'd stop us.
>> I didn't say we'd go aboard.
How long can you hold your breath under water?
(singing in Italian) >> Lovely voice, hasn't he, sir?
>> We'll take it in turns and do short dives, the one on the surface keep a lookout.
I wanna check the whole hold right up to the bars.
>> The water boat leaves in half an hour, sir.
I don't fancy spending the night here, even with old Caruso to sing me to sleep.
>> I'll go down first.
Pull yourself along the waterline and keep your head down.
(singing in Italian) (water rustles) (conversing in Italian) (water splashes) (boat hums) >> Sorry, sir, didn't see nothing out of the ordinary.
>> Right, I'll take the last one.
(horn blows) >> Take it easy, sir.
>> I found it, a temporary hold under the bars.
>> What?
>> There must be a few compartment inside.
We've gotta get in there.
If anything goes wrong, you make a dash for it.
Get back into port, right.
>> Yeah, but what about you?
>> That's an order, Knowles.
Ready, come on.
(engaging dramatic music) My god, how clever and how simple.
Of course no one ever sees them.
They go through that hold and they never break service.
>> I'd like to blow up one of these things.
>> Come on, we've gotta find out what's on the other side of that bulkhead.
(engaging dramatic music) (tense dramatic music) >> You were right about these drums, sir.
They're filled with machinery and explosives for warheads.
(door opens) >> There's somebody.
(speaking in Italian) >> We gotta get out, sir.
>> Quiet.
(conversing in Italian) >> How many is there?
>> Go on, into the water.
(machinery hums) (conversing in Italian) >> Go, come on.
(water splashes lightly) It was like a gigantic factory carved out of the hold of the ship.
Tomolino must have designed it and then they built it when the Olterra was interned.
The Spaniards knew nothing about it and nor did we.
Well, that's all sir, except that now we know how and where they operate, and what do we do next, sir?
>> I suggest you instruct your Chief Petty Officer on how to ride a bicycle.
Delayed messages are something I learned about as a midshipman, Crabb and I don't like them.
>> Sorry, sir.
>> If ever you would try to send me another one, I'll have your court martialed, clear?
>> Yes, sir.
>> Can I carry on now, sir.
>> No, have a drink, you've earned it.
>> Thank you, sir.
Sorry I went the wrong route, sir.
>> I told you that the next convoy do here would probably be the most important one we've ever had.
The first part of it arrived today.
It'll be here tomorrow and tomorrow night.
On the following day, it will be joined by the second and larger part, on the day after that, the whole will sail.
At least I hope that the whole lot will sail, clear?
>> Yes, sir.
But- >> You've given me very valuable information today, but your job now is to protect this convoy.
I don't think they'll attack it tonight.
They're not prepared for it, but tomorrow night and the night after, any questions?
>> No sir.
>> Good, see to it.
>> Sir.
>> Crabb, most of the ships that came in today are supply ships tankers, and so on.
The main part of the North African invasion force gets here the day after tomorrow.
>> Thanks for letting me know, sir.
>> I wish we could attack that convoy tonight.
>> Be patient, Rosati.
Can you get all the new warheads assembled by tomorrow?
>> Definitely.
>> Good.
(dark dramatic music) (reveille plays) >> No wonder he kept on us to get that blasted Italian chariot working.
Look at him.
>> Morgan: He's going to test it tomorrow.
>> Well he said it would come in useful one day, particularly with the war ahead.
>> I'm not with you, Sid.
>> But you weren't with us in the old Olterra either, mate or you'd know what he's thinking about.
Instead of sitting here waiting to be attacked, it'd be a ruddy side easier to pop over there to Algeciras in that thing and blow 'em all up.
>> No, but he explained about that.
I mean, Spain is neutral.
We must obey the laws of international procedure.
Hand me that depth charge will you?
I mean we're still civilized men aren't we?
There now, that should make a nice old mess of anyone I drop it on tonight.
(machinery hums) >> Good luck, Rosati.
(water splashes) (chariots hum) (boat hums) (chariots hum) (horn blares) >> It's the worst part of it this, sir, waiting.
Think they'll come?
>> They'll come.
(dark dramatic music) (suspenseful music) (tense dramatic music) (device explodes) Get me another set.
>> All right.
>> Go around and look at that tankard over there.
You take the stern, I'll take the bow.
>> Yes, I thank you sir, it's much quieter down there.
>> Good boy.
Get on with that set!
(device explodes) (blast muffles dialogue) >> What the well for?
>> Then getting him out of it before she catches fire on this one.
(blast explodes) >> Get Knowles over there, get Fraser over there.
>> Aye, aye, sir.
Get ready to dive, she's on fire.
(blast explodes) Plenty more of 'em.
We shan't finish this job til morning.
(fires burn) >> He'll be all right.
We'll save his leg, don't worry.
I telephoned Jumper's Bastion.
The rest of your mean are quite safe.
They're sleeping now.
>> Thanks.
>> You ought to get some rest too you know.
No one can go on forever.
(reveille plays) >> We'll have six chariots and warheads serviceable by this evening.
>> This time there is no need to give you details of the target.
You have done well Rosati, all of you, very well, and if we can cripple that convoy before they start that will be the biggest prize of all.
>> Haven't you got any work to do?
Nets repaired, sir, depth charges all ready.
What you got, soldier?
>> She works, Chief.
I just tried it, she really works.
Do you know, they could see the ships as well as we can and last night will be nothing compared to what happen tonight.
I've got to do it, Chief.
>> All right, sir.
You and Knowles get aboard that chariot, sling the warhead under the Olterra, blow it up.
>> Yes, just before their chariots leaves.
>> Making sure this convoy does not get attacked, very necessary, sir, nothing wrong with it.
>> Except that I haven't gotten permission to do it.
>> You said at this time, sir.
All right, Thorpe.
>> Good luck, sir.
(door knocks) >> Masters: Come in.
>> I know it's late, but I must see the Admiral.
>> He's visiting the command ship of the invasion force with the Chief of Staff.
>> Well, when will they be back?
>> Not for two hours, at least.
He's asked me to take these letters up to his house.
>> It'll be too late by then.
(stutters) >> You're expecting them to attack again tonight, aren't you?
>> They know what those ships mean Not far to go and nothing to stop them, easy meat.
>> You must be very tired.
Don't take too many risks.
>> Why should I?
>> It could become a habit.
>> I'm still in tact.
>> You have a lot of friends, a lot of people who like you, whatever happens, whatever you decide to do, remember that won't you?
(crickets chirp) (horn blares) >> They must be under the net by now.
They'll probably surface in the bay and then submerge again for the run in.
>> Hope our own patrol boats don't spot them.
>> With a warhead on the bows of that chariot it will be too bad if they do.
(chariot hums) >> Let's stay on surface as long as possible and save oxygen.
(Knowles laughs) What are you laughing at Knowles?
>> The Admiral's in one of those ships.
We could alter course and ask his permission to carry on.
>> If we're gonna get sunk we might as well be sunk by the enemy.
>> We'll be ready to go at nine o'clock.
>> Good.
(tense dramatic music) >> There she is, we'll be there in five minutes.
You stay on the chariot, I'll fix the warhead.
I've set the fuse to short delay, right?
>> All right, sir.
>> Diving now.
(chariot hums) (engaging dramatic music) >> Here are the latest sir, and those are the latest signals.
>> Thank you.
Anything important happen him while I was away?
>> No, sir, except that Lieutenant Crabb wanted to see you urgently but he couldn't wait, sir.
>> Make an appointment for him first thing in the morning.
>> Yes, sir.
>> You might deal with these, then you can carry on.
>> Thank you, sir.
Good night, sir.
>> Good night.
(engaging dramatic music) >> Ready, Celloni?
>> Ready.
>> The chariots will go first, then the divers.
(tense dramatic music) Stand by everybody, we're diving in one minute.
(chariots hum) (suspenseful music) (tense dramatic music) >> Halt!
(alarm blares) (tense dramatic music) (warhead explodes) (uplifting heroic music) (reveille plays) (Thorpe barks order) >> We just received a signal saying that you've been awarded with the George Medal, sir.
On behalf of myself, Leading Seaman Knowles, Able Seamen Morgan and Fraser, and Ordinary Seaman Thomas, our hardiest congratulations, sir.
>> You all deserve the ruddy medal.
(barks order) (sweeping uplifting music) (engaging dramatic music)
- Arts and Music
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