Blighty Thank God

‘Blighty Thank God’ is a 12-part podcast, based on the ‘lost’ diary of WW2 RAF pilot Flt. Sgt. Ron Chapman, 22, who served in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

Hosted and produced by his journalist son Neil Chapman it tells some of stories he uncovered when he researched the diary, found 30 years after his father died.

The accompanying website - www.blightythankgod.co.uk - contains the complete diary, context notes, maps, photographs and background material.
The project is a tribute to the thousands of reluctant WW2 warriors from many nations.

Too many of them never made it home to their Blighty.

All Episodes

Blighty Thank God

11 Chemical Bombing at Bari

September 09, 2023 • Neil Chapman • Season 1 • Episode 11

0:00 | 18:36

After a relatively peaceful war, the Italian port of Bari suffered a terrible bombing raid in December, 1943 that led to a poison gas release killing many in mysterious circumstances that the Allies tried to cover up.
My father’s diary describes the aftermath and the dangers of visiting the local 'vino shop' for a drink in the lead up to Christmas, 1943 and the New Year.
Diary entries read by grandson Nick.
Additional voice: Lynda Proffitt
Episode photo: Civilians caught up in the Bari bombing.

I'd welcome any messages, especially if you enjoyed the episode stories.

To find maps, photographs and other material associated with each episode as well as the complete diary and context notes visit the podcast website – www.blightythankgod.co.uk.

Neil Chapman

Host