The Balloonatics

Welcome to the latest podcast!

In today's episode, we look at the work and perils of the Balloon Corps.  Vital for observation and artillery support, balloon work was one of the most dangerous jobs in the military, with a shockingly short life expectancy.

We begin at Couin Military Cemetery, where a top hat and cane marked the grave of one of Edwardian theatre's most celebrated dandies (and also a balloon corps observer), Basil Radford, aka Gilbert the Filbert.  We hear about the role of balloons, their design, and question whether the so-called "Guardian Angel" lived up to its name.

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