Gunboat Command
The Biography of Lieutenant Commander Robert Hichens DSO* DSC** RNVR
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Gunboat Command
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Narrated by:
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Alex Hyde-White
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By:
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Antony Hitchens
About this listen
This biography draws heavily on the personal diaries of the subject, Robert Hichens (or ‘Hitch’ as he was universally known).
After a brief description of his early life, time at Oxford, his motor racing achievements (including trophies at Le Mans in his Aston Martin), and RN training, the book focuses on his exceptional wartime experiences. Hitch was the most highly decorated RNVR officer of the war with two DSOs, three DSCs and three Mentions in Despatches. He was recommended for a posthumous VC. We hear of his early days in vulnerable minesweepers and the Dunkirk ‘Dynamo’ operation, (his first DSC).
In late 1940, Hitch joined Coastal Forces serving in the very fast MGBs, soon earning his own command and shortly after command of his Flotilla. He was the first to capture an E-Boat. His successful leadership led to many more successes and his reputation as a fearless and dynamic leader remains a legend today.
The book contains detailed and graphic accounts of running battles against the more heavily armed E-boats. Tragically, he was killed in action in April 1943, having refused promotion and a job ashore.
©2015 Antony Hitchens (P)2023 Pen and SwordListeners also enjoyed...
What listeners say about Gunboat Command
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- St piran lad
- 30-10-24
Great book about a great man
There are a few places were the editing of the book can be heard. Sudden stops and repeating last few words etc but that is the only criticism
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- FAB
- 01-11-23
Interesting family story
An interesting biography of “Hitch” a fascinating story of a small boat commanders life and death through the war. Obviously loved by friends and family and the story tells of his love of the sea and the small boat war.
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Overall4 out of 5 stars
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Performance2 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- waterloo
- 12-07-24
Great Story but poor Pronunciation
Whilst the story is riveting and living near to Felixstowe I have visited LT Cmdr Hitchens grave I did AGAIN get a little annoyed that a English speaking narrator is unable to pronounce fairly simple place names such as as “Harwich “ let alone the Cornish ones .. constantly he repeats place names wrongly as well as using the American pronunciation for “Bouy” ( Booy )
Didn’t ruin it for me but did get annoying
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