The Legless Ace - True Story of Douglas Bader - Famous RAF Fighter Pilot

Douglas Bader was one of the most famous pilots of World War II, and what makes him even more incredible is that he lost both legs in a flying accident. Yet, after he was fitted with prosthetics, he flew Hawker Hurricanes and Spitfires and was one of the top RAF aces in the conflict. This was made using the World War II flight simulator IL-2 Sturmovik Great Battles series. Hope you enjoy! Please like, comment, and subscribe.

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[TJ]

Historical notes - First, I literally watched Douglas Bader pronounce his own name and I tried to say it exactly like him, so no comments on that please lol. Next, obviously the biplane shown is a Sopwith Camel, but he was flying a Bulldog Mk II in his crash. Also, the twin engine bomber that he took down over the coast was a Do-17, but I have shown a Ju-88. (Have to make these adjustments with the limits of the flight sim I use). Also, some historians argue that he could have also been shot down by either German or an RAF plane as well. Thanks for watching guys! Hope you enjoy!

[stumccabe]

I am 69. When I was a young boy (I guess 7 years old) Douglas Bader came to my school and gave us a talk about his wartime exploits and experiences - I can't remember anything about it other than that I thought he was a very special man.

[richardjohnson]

I read Douglas Bader's book many years ago, when I was in high school. He has always been one of my hero's.

[estellemelodimitchell]

The chivalry and respect shown by Luftwaffe towards Bader is admirable.

[lapensulo]

Your request for the viewers to support the Douglas Baudder(sp), foundation had a huge positive impact upon me. Not only am I an amputee, but I have two other different kinds of very serious injuries from the same accident.
Much appreciation for your act of generosity.

God-Speed, my friend

[andrewlerdard-dickson]

I have had met Sir Douglas Bader 3 time's....the first time is when he came to" Clontarf Boy's Town, a boarding School, when l was a student their in 1975.
When l spoke extensively to him, as l was requested the task of showing him around the school ( because I wouldn't shut up talking to him) and gave him a picture l had drawn of the 242 squadron motif of a flying boot kicking Hitler in the signed it and gave it back to me !
The Second time was at the Perth entertainment centre that same year, were he told the audience about his many exploit's, were a honour ceremony was put on for him, and l was amongst that guard, as l was lucky to be a RAAF my two brother's who were also cadet's.

[Senorgusanos]

You did a great job of telling this story through the visuals and the dialogue. Very well made. I think Sir Bader would be proud.

[johnreed]

My all time favourite pilot, because of his disabilities he would never give up. Such a brave man.

[frankieblue]

That was great man. I really like these little documentaries Brother, keep up the great deeds. Ooh Rah!

[morgananderson]

I know I'm responding to this a little late, however I'm grateful you've included his story.

In 1975 as an 8th grader, I noticed a book in the library with a picture of an airplane on the cover. I was fascinated, and though had never really read a full novel, I checked out "Reach for the Sky".

I read the full book in short order and was mesmerized by entire story. It also had pictures. It's an excellent read! Highly recommended!

Some of the elements, I recall from all those years back, was a picture of the plane crash site where he lost his legs. There was a caption underneath the photo spotlighting the shoes he wore, stating that was the last time shoes were ever taken off his feet...

Also a key incident happened during the battle of Britain, when taking off, he failed to set the pitch control for his propeller from "Coarse" to "Fine". The plane he was flying crashed and was destroyed. Later, after recognizing his mistake in the cockpit, he noticed this crash left large dents and damage to his artificial legs... Chances are this would have injured his legs very badly as well, if they were not already replaced with prosthetics...

An amazing story by an amazing person,
Thanks for sharing it on YouTube,

Best regards,
Mo-

[ricardomacaris]

Gracias por compartir esta historia...la conocía pero no tan ampliamente. Sin dudas fue un hombre de honor y reconocido por sus adversarios de la mejor manera. Saludos desde Argentina.

[fridaycaliforniaa]

Damn ! What a story ! This channel is dramatically underrated =)

[arolysantiagosuarezdiaz]

I'm a airline trasport pilot. I had an motorcycle accident 3 years ago, and unfortunately they amputee my left leg above the knee. My first impression was is over. But when I hear about Sir Douglas Bader everything change. I return to fly again and I drove a motorcoach Bus too.

[eTraxx]

I read his autobiography in 1960. My dad was in the US Airforce and we were in England, my dad stationed at RAF Upper Heyford. My biggest regret is that I did not somehow take advantage of that place and time to visit one of the airshows where he appeared. That book telling how a double amputee refused to let it hold him back is something that was very important in my life at such a relatively early age .. acting as the impetus for my belief in seeing people with disabilities as no less than someone with out.

[adriaandeleeuw]

I met Sir Douglas in Darwin in 1978, I introduced the young lady I was with and his quip to me was I hope you dont mind if I dont stand up as I shook his hand.

[roscored]

I had the honour of meeting him in 1977 in Adelaide South Australia at a luncheon at Government House there. He signed my edition of the book but it has sadly been misplaced over the years. But at the time he was a hero of mine.

[jamesn]

I love this guy. A gentleman and a badass. Gets on with the job, tells it like it is, not expecting sympathy. Today it seems people want sympathy because their coffee is cold.

[donaldnevile]

Found your site today. I am over 60 and disabled. Met the man in about 1965 or so when he visited my school p

[forgetfulninja]

He was a family friend of mine on my dads side, my great grandpa (my grans dad) played golf with him often

[ianmclaughlin]

Douglas Bader has a street named after him in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Bader Crescent in Montgomery Place, Saskatoon. I grew up there and was aware of him and the leg being dropped for him. I never knew anything else about the man so you video on him was great and I enjoyed learning much more from your excellent video. thanks TJ3