Combat Dealers

Bruce Crompton discovers the historic D‑Day invasion plans hidden in archives and endures a bumpy landing in a Dakota aeroplane over the English Channel. Later, in France, his enthusiasm soars as he completes a parachute jump over the countryside, a testament to his passion.

is a television programme presented as a single episode that shines a light on the lesser‑known figures who played a part in the Normandy landings. The series adopts a documentary style, focusing on personal stories rather than broad military strategy, and this particular instalment follows one man’s remarkable involvement. The episode follows Bruce Crompton as he pieces together the secret plans that underpinned the D‑Day assault. His investigation leads him to board a Dakota aircraft, where the flight proves anything but smooth, delivering a notably rough touchdown. After surviving that ordeal, Crompton’s commitment to the mission reaches a new peak when he takes to the skies once more, this time leaping out of a plane with a parachute over French soil. Throughout the segment, Crompton’s discovery of the invasion blueprint is portrayed as a pivotal moment, highlighting the meticulous preparation that preceded the operation. The narrative then shifts to the hazardous landing, emphasizing the challenges faced by those who ferried troops and equipment across the Channel in those ageing Dakotas. Finally, the story culminates with Cromton’s parachute descent in France, underscoring how his enthusiasm for the cause surged even higher. The episode closes by linking his daring jump to the broader tapestry of unsung contributions that helped make the D‑Day landings possible.