Michael Fopp is the son of an Australian Battle of Britain fighter pilot. He grew up surrounded by aeroplanes, but left school to follow a childhood dream of riding horses professionally. He was a member of the elite Mounted Branch of London’s Metropolitan Police for over 10 years. All this ended when he was seriously injured in 1979. However, during his Police career he had lectured and written about aviation history and, almost immediately after his hospitalisation, joined the Royal Air Force Museum as Keeper of the Battle of Britain Museum.

In 1984 he was awarded a Master’s Degree by the City University, London for whom he was a visiting lecturer in Management Studies for 9 years. In 1985 he was appointed Director of the London Transport Museum. He returned to the Royal Air Force Museum as Director in 1988 and finished his thesis "Museum & Gallery Management" gaining his PhD in 1989. He was the Director General of the RAF Museum’s three sites for 22 years, all of which expanded significantly during his tenure.

He retired in 2010 to devote his time to the Honourable Company of Air Pilots & Navigators (a City of London international Livery Company) during his year as the elected Master, and to take on consultancy work within the museum sector, particularly for the RAF Museum’s ambitious development plan which he helped create.

Michael is an transport, social and aviation historian (RAF History 1936 - 1955), not-for-profit management specialist and information technologist. He is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Museums Association, and holds both Commercial and Instrument ratings for fixed wing aircraft. Until a recently he spent his spare time flying his Lancair aircraft which he built over a period of 8 years. Apart from his demanding professional commitments and active leisure time he maintains an enthusiasm and deep interest in computers, computer programming and the future technologies associated with these interests – he is also a keen chef and races model sailing yachts.

He writes articles on a variety of subjects and his book “Managing Museums & Galleries”, published by Routledge, was the first book to provide the reader with museum/gallery specific solutions to management problems. In 2018 his book "The spirit of the Royal Air Force - An anthology in words & works of art" was published to coincide with the centenary of the RAF.
His lecturing is intended to entertain and inspire and he takes great care to develop talks related to the areas in which the ships he is aboard are cruising. His repertoire of talks is extensive and many cruise directors have called upon him to fill gaps in schedules or explain or commentate on destinations, particularly passing through canals or distant islands.

Click here to visit Michael's website >> www.michaelfopptalks.com

AVIATION THEMES

DESTINATIONS

I create bespoke talks about the specific ports of call and country included in the cruise itinerary. However, I include secondary subjects of historical, political or personal insights into the destination. I always create special audio and video of each destination coupled with recommendations and, if necessary, supplemental material around the excursions available to guests.

HISTORICAL & SOCIAL HISTORY

1. The Battle of Britain
An overview of the whole Battle from both the British and German perspectives. Looking at the strategy which led to the Battle and the tactics employed in its prosecution. Using unique film and photographs, and including the voices of participants from both sides recalling their views and experiences.

2. Aircraft of the Royal Air Force Museum
One of the largest aviation museums in the World with over 200 aircraft from more than ten different countries. As Director General of the RAF Museum for more than 22 years, the speaker describes, in this talk, the individual artifacts with a unique insight and knowledge. Illustrated with carefully chosen photographs of both the exteriors and interiors, the history of each individual machine and its journey from operational aircraft to museum exhibit is recounted.

3. Fighter Boys
The story of the fighter pilot. Starting with the origins of the genre and coming up to date using the speaker’s insights gained over a career as an aviation and social historian. The talk examines the background, temperament, skill and abilities of fighter pilots since the dawn of aviation. Using examples from individuals known personally by the speaker, the subject will be brought to life using audio and video clips compiled by the speaker over a long period.

4. Bomber Boys
An identical ‘formula’ as “Fighter Boys”, but dealing with the differences and peculiarities of being in a crew. Focussing especially on the contribution made by Bomber Command and the US 8th Army Air Force in World War II.

5. Mission Impossible - The Bombing of Port Stanley from the Ascension Islands, 1982
Following the invasion of the British Overseas Territory of the Falklands Islands by the Argentines in 1982, Prime minister Margaret Thatcher's response was to put a task force together to re-take the islands. In six weeks this was assembled and set sail. Behind the scenes the Royal Air Force proposed the (then) longest strategic bombing raid in history to deprive the Argentines of the runway at Stanley Airfield and show them that even their homeland was at risk from such a 'long reach'. The story of these raids is an exciting and heroic example of flexibility in using machines which were already 40 years old and the esprit de corps of the crews involved. Using filmed testimony and historical records this talk features, particularly, the unusual outpost of Ascension Island and its crucial role in these attacks.

6. Ascension Island At War
From its establishment as a base for the British Army and Royal Navy detachments guarding the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte (who was 700 miles away on the island of St Helena), to its role today, this talk looks at the function of Ascension Island. Its role as a listening station in the war against terrorism, its function as a transmitting station for the Cable & Wireless and BBC companies and its use by NASA are all explained. Its role in World War II, and in particular the controversial SS Laconia incident are covered in detail using photographs and contemporary film.

7. The Short Brothers & The Sunderland
These extraordinary pioneers of aviation were a dynamic trio of daredevils who started one of the first aircraft companies. Their skill and expertise led to some of the finest aircraft of all time and the Sunderland Flying Boat is probably the best example of their innovation and prowess. Designed in peacetime, adapted for war and ending its life giving pleasure to tourists this talk covers the brothers themselves, their company and this special aircraft.

8. The Development of British Rotary Winged Aircraft
Set against the background of developments overseas the development of British rotary winged aircraft was unique in being forced ahead by the events of war. Unlike in other countries a use of rotary winged aircraft was not apparent when they were first invented. Recreation and the occasional publicity stunt was all that seemed to be relevant - until the Royal Air Force started using radar to detect incoming formations of enemy bombers. Thus the british forced the development ahead quickly and were then seminal in the adaption of subsequent helicopters to military and civilian uses which we take for granted today.

9. Ascension Island At War
From its establishment as a base for the British Army and Royal Navy detachments guarding the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte (who was 700 miles away on the island of St Helena), to its role today, this talk looks at the function of Ascension Island. Its role as a listening station in the war against terrorism, its function as a transmitting station for the Cable & Wireless and BBC companies and its use by NASA are all explained. Its role in World War II, and in particular the controversial SS Laconia incident are covered in detail using photographs and contemporary film.

TRANSPORT THEMES

1. London Transport at War
A fascinating look at the role of London’s transport company during the Second World War. The speaker was the Director of the London Transport Museum for three years and had access to their unique collection of material relating to the period. Using this and his own library he has assembled a talk which is both illuminating and surprising. London Transport not only ran the buses and trains of London throughout the Second World War, but they also carried out many other interesting and exciting tasks. Illustrated with photos and film from the famous London Transport archive.

2. Underground London
A look at subterranean London through the eyes of a transport and military historian. What is hidden behind those anonymous doorways in passages in the "Tube"? How did we carry secret messages across London during the Blitz? Was Parliament really connected to Downing Street by an underground walkway? This story tells the fantastic and, sometimes, unbelievable story of how London has been undermined by countless tunnels, passageways and tubes to allow secret tasks to be carried out safely in times of war and peace.

3. Building & Flying a Light Aircraft
Why would you build your own aircraft? What are the benefits? Isn’t it dangerous? Can a ‘homebuilt’ aircraft perform like a mass produced machine? How long does it take and how much technical experience and knowledge do you need to accomplish such a task? All these and many other questions are answered in this fully illustrated talk about one man’s personal achievement in building and flying one of the highest performance aircraft of its type in the World.

4. "London Carried On!" - The Story of London during the bombing blitzes of 1940/41 & 1944
Looking at the bustling modern London of today it is hard to comprehend what it must have been like to endure day and night bombing for 57 consecutive nights in the winter of 1940.41. The again, in 1944, the so-called 'vengeance weapons', the V1 and V2 started to fall indiscriminately all over the South-East of England and London. Using contemporary film and photographs this story shows the determination of the civilian population to 'carry on' and how they worked and played during this terrifying and difficult time.

5. The London Aircraft Production Group
Seven hundred and thirty Handley Page Halifax heavy bombers were built by London Transport in World war II. Affectionately know as "London Buses" by their crews, these 'planes were built by a number of different companies around London and assembled at a special airfield North of London. Their manufacture was carried out by a, primarily, unskilled workforce (when the project started) and 80 % of it was female. This is an extraordinary, and untold, story of perseverance and endeavour by London Transport and its partners.

NORWEGIAN THEMES

1. Norway – Zone of Destiny in World War II

2. From 'Altmark' to 'Tirpitz' - German Ships in Norwegian Fiords
Hitler coined the phrase “Zone of Destiny” for Norway and duly invaded, without warning, in April 1940. However, the naval story of Norway at war starts before the invasion with the “Altmark Incident” and continues with the use of Norway by Germany’s surface fleet including the “Bismark”, “Tirpitz” and “Scharnhorst”. This talk concentrates on the rescue of the prisoners on the “Altmark”,” the battle of the North Cape, during which the “Scharnhorst” was sunk, and finally the heroic attempts to sink the “Tirpitz".

3. Norway – Heavy Water and the German Atomic Bomb
In 1965 the movie “The Heroes of Telemark” tried to tell the story of the attacks on the production of heavy water in order to halt the Germans' development of an atomic bomb. The survivors of these attacks called the film “a travesty of the truth”! It told only a distorted Hollywood version of a much more exciting series of exploits. Thought to be the most daring and successful acts of wartime sabotage ever, this story is almost unbelievable in its courage, bravery and tenacity.

4. Ship Busters
Both the Allies and Axis forces relied heavily on the transportation of material by ships during WWII. Royal Air Force Coastal Command (with integrated squadrons from Norway, Australia and New Zealand) formed specialist anti-shipping “Strike Wings” to attack enemy ships carrying raw materials and supplies to the axis ports in North Africa, Italy, occupied Europe and Germany. These were the unsung heroes of an almost forgotten war. Luckily their attacks were filmed by specialist film units and their story can now be told. This talk concentrates on the Norwegian theatre of operations with fantastic footage of attacks on ships hiding in fiords.

5. The Arctic Convoys and the Battle of The North Cape
Hitler coined the phrase “Zone of Destiny” for Norway and duly invaded, without warning, in April 1940. However, the naval story of Norway at war starts before the invasion with the “Altmark Incident” and continues with the use of Norway by Germany’s surface fleet including the “Bismark”, “Tirpitz” and “Scharnhorst”. This talk concentrates on the rescue of the prisoners on the “Altmark”,” the battle of the North Cape, during which the “Scharnhorst” was sunk, and finally the heroic attempts to sink the “Tirpitz".

6. "Tirpitz - A Fleet in Being"
The story of one of the greatest Battleships ever built and Kiel’s most famous ship. The background to its creation encompasses the tensions between Germany and the superpowers of Britain, the USA, and France in the inter-war years. When it was launched it was faster and more heavily armed than any other warship in the world. Its mere presence in an area gave it the impact of being a whole fleet, hence the term used to describe it. This is a story of how a single ship led to the largest convoy disaster of WWII and a massive effort on the part of the allies to sink her. This effort was costly and the eventual sinking of the ship left more than 1,000 of her crew inside her capsized hull.

BALTIC THEMES

1. "The Winter War - Finland, 1939-40"
The Winter War, fought between Finland and the Soviet Union, was an invasion by the Soviet Union. The aim of the invasion was to annex Finland whole into the Soviet Union. The very first attack on November 30, 1939 was an aerial bombardment of the city of Helsinki and all along the Finnish-Soviet border. This put the Finnish people on the defensive without having to make any decision, unifying the once divided country. The tenacity of the Finnish people, both military and civilian, in the face of a superior opponent gained the country much sympathy throughout the world. However, the Finnish people were eventually worn down and the Soviets offered a peace. By March 13, 1940 the Winter War was officially over, the Moscow Peace Treaty was signed and the Soviet Union had gained more territory than it originally demanded.

2. The Siege of Leningrad
The Siege of Leningrad was a prolonged military blockade undertaken mainly by the German Army, and partly by Finnish forces, against Leningrad in the Eastern Front theatre of World War II. The siege started on 8 September 1941, when the last road to the city was severed. Although the Soviets managed to open a narrow land corridor to the city on 18 January 1943, the siege was only lifted on 27 January 1944, 872 days after it began. It was one of the longest and most destructive sieges in history and possibly the costliest in terms of casualties.

AMERICAN THEMES

1. "The Mighty Eighth" - The story of the US Army 8th Air Force in UK
From February 1942 until the end of the Second World War, the American 8th AAF served in the British Isles with distinction and heroism. Over 76,000 young men died in the cause of freedom during the combined bombing offensive with the Royal Air Force. By day the Americans, by night the British. This is a story of the men and women of "The Mighty Eighth" and the impact on the country they fought from for over three long years.

2. Americans in the Royal Air Force
As soon as war became inevitable in Europe young flyers from all over the USA wanted to fly for freedom. It was a federal offense to fight for another nation as a "mercenary", but that did not put off a group of pilots who would, eventually, be formed in to the famous "Eagle Squadrons" within the Royal Air Force. Their circuitous route to the battlefield and their continued service in the RAF after America came in to the war is a story of honour and heroism, grit and determination, but above all an insatiable love for flying.

3. "Got Any Gum Chum?" - The social and cultural impact of the American GI on Britain during the Second World War
After two years of blackout, rationing and deprivation the arrival of American forces in Britain in 1942 had a huge impact on the cultural and social life of the British people, particularly those who lived close to American bases dotted all over the country. Musical and culinary tastes changed, segregation of black and white was questioned and attitudes about many things altered - on both sides. This was a fascinating and life-changing time for all concerned. Its impact on British life continues today.

4. "The Memphis Belle" - The Story of a B17 Flying Fortress
In 1943 the first American crew to finish their tour of 25 missions set off back across the Atlantic to tour the United States on a fund-raising mission for war bonds. Simultaneously a colour film was shown throughout the US which had followed their exploits whilst in England. This documentary is one of the finest pieces of cinematography of World War II. Directed by William Wyler and shot in Technicolor, this talk explains the background to the crew, the production and the life of a US GI in WWII England. The talk is followed by the complete film which was shot by the US War Department and is therefore in the Public Domain.

See Also:- "Fighter Boys" and "Bomber Boys" above.

ASIA & PACIFIC THEMES

1. Queens of the Skies
During the 1930's, and again in the 1960's brave women risked their lives flying huge distances and capturing the hearts of the world though their exploits. Amy Johnson, Jean Batten and Amelia Earhart are, perhaps, the best known for their expeditions. This talk describes their courage and achievements, but also looks at their personalities and subsequent fates. Using archive film, audio transcripts and newsreels of the time, plus the personal recollections of the speaker, these women are brought to life.

2. The Cold War's Hot Wars - Proxy Wars Which Kept The Peace
The Cold war was billed as 40 years of peace, but there was not a year in which a real war was not being carried out in some part of the world. From civil wars to all-out international conflicts, these terrible occurrences kept the super powers from fighting the ultimate, atomic, war. Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaya.... these and many more make up a story, backed with film footage of the time and historical interviews with key participants and politicians, which is largely untold and often misunderstood.

3. The Aircraft Carrier In The Pacific
Following the British attacks on the Italian Fleet in Taranto in November 1940 a new method of naval fighting was quickly exploited by the Japanese. Pearl Harbour was the direct result, but the lessons were learned quickly and within months the allied carrier fleets spearheaded the eventual defeat and end of the Second World War in the Far East. The story of naval aviation in the Pacific is full of graphic accounts of bravery, innovation and excitement Much of the American effort was captured with colour film and surviving Japanese participants also gave extensive interviews.

4. The Great Australian Air Race
In 1934 the MacRobertson Air Race took place between London (England) and Melbourne (Australia) to celebrate the centenary of that city. It was billed as the "World’s Greatest Air Race" and its prize was $75,000. The story is extraordinary, the participants legends in their own lifetimes, and the results surprising. It was, at the time, the most reported subject in newspapers around the World as readers followed the progress of the different aircraft and their crews. Using contemporary accounts, photographs and film, this story is a pointer to the age and an indicator of how the world would be changed by aviation.

5. Flying The Hump - The Story of Air Transportation Across the Himalayas
The Hump was the name given by Allied pilots in the Second World War to the eastern end of the Himalayan Mountains over which they flew military transport aircraft from India to China to resupply the Chinese war effort of Chiang Kai-shek and the units of the United States Army Air Forces based in China. Creating an airlift presented the USAAF a considerable challenge in 1942: it had no units trained or equipped for moving cargo, and no airfields existed in the China/Burma/India Theatre of Operations for basing the large number of transports that would be needed. Flying over the Himalayas was extremely dangerous and made more difficult by a lack of reliable charts, an absence of radio navigation aids, and a dearth of information about the weather. This is a story of heroism and overcoming challenges, but also forms a basis for the safe operations of transport aircraft we take for granted today

6. The Flying Tigers - Mercenaries & Heroes
The 1st American Volunteer Group of the Chinese Air Force in 1941–1942, nicknamed the Flying Tigers, was composed of pilots from the United States recruited under presidential authority and commanded by Claire Lee Chennault. The ground crew and headquarters staff were likewise mostly recruited from the U.S. military, along with some civilians.
The group consisted of three fighter squadrons with about 20 aircraft each. It trained in Burma before the American entry into World War II with the mission of defending China against Japanese forces. Arguably, the group was a private military contractor, and for that reason the volunteers have sometimes been called mercenaries. The members of the group had lucrative contracts with salaries ranging from $250 a month for a mechanic to $750 for a squadron commander, roughly three times what they had been making in the U.S. forces. Their story is exciting and noteworthy and their reputation formidable; illustrated with both film and photographs this talk focuses on their mission and the individual characters who made up the team.

7. Hong Kong at War - The First Battle of The Pacific War
The Japanese attack was met with stiff resistance from the Hong Kong garrison, composed of local troops as well as British, Canadian and Indian units. Within a week the defenders abandoned the mainland and less than two weeks later, with their position on the island untenable, the colony surrendered.

8. "Going Downtown"- A Pilot's View of Hanoi
Young American pilots attack North Vietnam's capital in battles against missiles and MiG's controlled by politicians thousands of miles away.

9. One Square Mile of Vietnam - Da Nang
Da Nang is one of Vietnam's major ports, a city rich in history. It was where the French first landed in the 19th Century in their quest to control the area and where US forces established a large air base during the Vietnam war. The battle there and the subsequent impact make an interesting story of war and peace.

10. The Fall of Saigon
On 30 April 1975 Saigon fell, was abandoned by the US military and in now the largest and most prosperous city in Vietnam. We discuss the end of the Vietnam War and its impact on the modern World.

11. Jungle Warfare - Malaya/Java, The Last Frontier
Fighting in jungles was a challenge to the Allies following the Japanese invasions of countries in SE Asia. The adaption of allied troops, of many nationalities, was quick and, ultimately, effective. How did they do it and who were the pioneers?

12. USS Grenadier & US Submarines around Malaya & Sumatra & Java
Patrolling the Straights of Malacca in April 1943 the Grenadier was attacked and scuttled by her crew. Their harrowing experience at the hands of the Japanese is a testimony to her commander, crew and all who served in submarines in World War II.

13. Japanese Intelligence Successes in World War II
The West's underestimation of the Japanese led to a series of victories throughout the Pacific and Asia. How did the Allies allow their security to be undermined and their technology to be copied. Who were the traitors and where they ever caught?

14. The "Jet Age" Begins
The Air War over Korea was a hard fought battle of the new aircraft developed by the Russians, Americans and British from the technology invented by the Germans in World War II. It heralded the start of the serious Cold War which was to last for over 40 years.

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND THEMES

1. Amelia Earhart - The woman and her exploits
One of the greatest women aviators of all time Amelia's flights still conjure up the adventures of her time, but controversy still exists as to her fate.

2. The Battle of Darwin - The Largest ever Attack on Australia
On February 19, 1942 Darwin was attacked by 242 Japanese aircraft and more than 100 further raids took place on this Northernmost town in Australia. We explore how the allies responded and explain the purpose behind the Japanese assaults on the city.

3. The Battle of The Coral Sea - The First Aircraft Carrier Battle
The battle is historically significant as the first action in which aircraft carriers engaged each other, as well as the first in which neither side's ships sighted or fired directly upon the other.
Following the British attacks on the Italian Fleet in Taranto in November 1940 a new method of naval fighting was quickly exploited by the Japanese. Pearl Harbour was the direct result, but the lessons were learned quickly and within months the allied carrier fleets spearheaded the eventual defeat and end of the Second World War in the Far East. The story of naval aviation in the Pacific is full of graphic accounts of bravery, innovation and excitement. Much of the American effort was captured with colour film and surviving Japanese participants also gave extensive interviews.

4. The Royal Flying Doctor Service - a "mantle of safety" in the Outback
We discover how one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world works to provide emergency and primary health care services for those living in rural, remote and regional areas of Australia.

5. Pioneering Australian Aviation - The Golden Years
Australia became the goal of so many famous record-breaking aviators, men & women in the 1930's. We look at their characters and exploits and the legacy they left. .

6. "Once a Jolly Airman" - An Australian in The Battle of Britain
The story of the speaker's own father who travelled from Australia before World War II and fought in France, The Battle of Britain and much more. In spite of being shot down and burned, he completed a full career as a pilot flying modern jets and helicopters after the War.

MIDDLE EAST THEMES

1. The Suez Crisis 1956
The Suez Crisis, was a diplomatic and military confrontation in late 1956 between Egypt on one side, and Britain, France and Israel on the other, with the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Nations playing major roles in forcing Britain, France and Israel to withdraw.
The attack followed the President of Egypt (Gamal Abdel Nasser's) decision of 26 July 1956 to nationalize the Suez Canal, after the withdrawal of an offer by Britain and the United States to fund the building of the Aswan Dam, which was in response to Egypt's new ties with the Soviet Union and recognizing the People's Republic of China during the height of tensions between China and Taiwan. The aims of the attack were primarily to regain Western control of the canal and to remove Nasser from power, and the crisis highlighted the danger that Arab nationalism posed to Western access to Middle East oil.

2. Retreat From Empire
The story of the withdrawal of British Occupation/Administration in the Middle and Far East following the Second World War is an interesting and varied catalogue of success and failure, often followed by internal strife, conflict and civil war. Occasionally, as in Hong Kong and Singapore the changes were relatively benign, but in most other cases, including Burma (Myanmar), Malaya (Malaysia), India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, bloody conflicts followed. This talk focuses on the concept of "Empire" and the dislocation of the British 'version' following the catastrophic changes of the Second World War.

3. The Arab Israeli Air Wars
The foundation of the State of Israel in 1948 led to a series of conflicts with her surrounding neighbours which exist to this day. The early creation of the new Sate and its acquisition of a defensive air force is a story of smuggling and gambling, heroism and bravery, comedy and tragedy. The result was one of the most powerful and sophisticated air forces in the world today. This story encompasses the conflicts which occurred between Israel and her Arab neighbours between 1948 and the present day and sheds some light on the capabilities, equipment and characters of the Israeli Air Defence Force.

4. Aerial "Policing" Between The World Wars
Following the end of World War I and the creation of the League of Nations, the victors were given "mandates" to help underdeveloped peoples cope with the "strenuous conditions of the modern world". Much of this territory was previously part of the now-defunct Ottoman Empire and a large swathe of the Middle East came under British and French control. The British already controlled huge areas of the Gulf, Egypt and East Africa and it now fell to them to control warring tribesmen in Mesopotamia (Iraq) and Palestine. Britain was bankrupt following WWI and the costs of this responsibility were not offset by any income derived from the areas themselves. This is the story of how the world's first independent air force, which had only been formed in 1918, used air power in the role of "policing" this lawless area. The story is fascinating because of the primitive, but effective methods chosen and the implementation of what was, in those days, a totally new form of military power.

5. The Royal Air Force In The Middle East
The RAF has had a presence in the Middle East since its formation in 1918 and this has had peaks and troughs according to the world situation generally, but has always been interesting. From permanent bases in North Africa, Egypt, Cyprus, Malta, Palestine, Iraq and the Gulf States it has kept the peace, fought two world wars, co-ordinated massive relief efforts and generally 'shown the flag' in the region. To do this it has employed a mixed bag of aircraft and equipment and some of the most interesting people who have ever served. This story concentrates on the people, aircraft and tactics employed through peace and war to ensure stability in the Mediterranean and Red Sea area.

6. The Flight of the Mew Gull - London to Cape Town 1939
In February 1939 Alex Henshaw flew a tiny aircraft from Gravesend to Cape Town and back in a record time of 4 days 10 hours and 16 minutes. This record stood for 70 years and was only broken by a more modern machine with equipment and facilities unheard of in 1939. The story of Alex Henshaw himself and his record breaking flight to Cape Town is one of excitement, heroism and wonder. The endurance and capabilities of the man and machine were - sadly- overshadowed by the imminent World War, but the achievements of Henshaw himself would continue. This talk concentrates on the man and his flying career, prior to the Cape Town flight and after as the Chief Production Test Pilot of the famous Spitfire. The speaker was a personal friend of Alex and incorporates video and personal memories of their time together in this talk.

7. The East African Campaign of World War I
This series of battles and guerrilla actions which started in German East Africa and spread to portions of Mozambique, Northern Rhodesia, British East Africa, Uganda and the Belgian Congo. The campaign was effectively ended in November 1917. The Germans entered Portuguese East Africa and continued the campaign living off Portuguese supplies. The strategy of the German colonial forces was to drain and divert forces from the trenches of the Western Front to Africa. This strategy failed to achieve these results after 1916, as mainly Indian and South African forces, which were prevented by colonial policy from deploying to Europe, conducted the rest of the campaign. Nevertheless, the Germans fought for the whole of World War I, receiving word of the armistice, on 14 November 1918, the Germans formally surrendered on 25 November. German East Africa ultimately became two League of Nations Class B Mandates, Tanganyika Territory of the United Kingdom and Ruanda-Urundi of Belgium, while the Kionga Triangle became a mandate of Portugal. This story illuminates the background to the current political situation in this part of the World.

8. South African Aviators and the South African Air Force
The South African Air Force (SAAF) was the second independent air force in the world when it was established on 1 February 1920. It saw extensive service in World War II and the Korean War. Many South African nationals also served in the Royal Air Force and rose to high rank. Others established policies and practices which are still used by air forces all over the world. From 1966 the SAAF was involved in providing infantry support in a low intensity war ("The Border War") in Angola, South-West Africa (Namibia) and Rhodesia. As the war progressed, the intensity of air operations increased until in the late 1980s, the SAAF were compelled to fly fighter missions against Angolan aircraft in order to maintain tactical air superiority. On conclusion of the Border War in 1990, aircraft numbers were severely reduced due to economic pressures as well as the cessation of hostilities with neighboring states. The story of this air force is one of bravery and professionalism and is illustrated by focusing on individuals who made a contribution and their exploits in the changing political background of Africa itself.

FAR EAST THEMES

1. "The Last Flying Boat"
The enduring and romantic story of the pre-war flying boat age forms the background to the story of a single aircraft, a Short Sunderland which started life in World War II and now resides, in flying condition, in Polk City, Florida. Following the story of one machine allows us to wander back in time to the days when flying boats roamed the skies throughout the world, but particularly in the Far East and Asia. Before the general construction of airports the water was the natural place to land and the lifestyle that went with flying boat travel was modelled on that of the great ocean liners; this was the precursor to first class air travel of today and the modern cruise ship business. Using this single aircraft allows us to reach back into that romantic world, discover the violent nature of over-water operations in war time and return to its more peaceful pursuits as an air show performer of today.

2. The Fall Of Singapore - February 1942
Singapore was the major British military base in South-East Asia and nicknamed the "Gibraltar of the East". The fighting in Singapore lasted from 8–15 February 1942.
It resulted in the capture of Singapore by the Japanese and the largest surrender of British-led military personnel in history. About 80,000 British, Indian and Australian troops became prisoners of war, joining 50,000 taken by the Japanese in the earlier Malayan Campaign. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill called the ignominious fall of Singapore to the Japanese the "worst disaster" and "largest capitulation" in British military history. In just seven days, Singapore, the "Impregnable Fortress", had fallen.

FEMALE THEMES

1. Queens of the Skies
During the 1930's and '40's, brave women risked their lives flying huge distances and capturing the hearts of the world though their exploits. Amy Johnson, Jean Batten and Amelia Earhart are, perhaps, the best known for their expeditions. During World War II they joined the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) in the UK and the WASP's in the USA and ferried combat aircraft to front line units. This talk describes their courage and achievements, but also looks at their personalities and subsequent fates. Using archive film, audio transcripts and newsreels of the time, plus the personal recollections of the speaker, these women are brought to life.

2. Spitfire Women
The story of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) and its role in World War II. A story not only of non-combatants carrying out the dangerous job of ferrying aircraft to front line units in a war zone, but also of the determination, and success of a group of female pilots to join in this work. Initially the women were restricted in what they were allowed to fly, but by the end of the war it was a common sight to see a young woman jump down from a single seat fighter, such as a Spitfire, as it was from a huge four engined bomber like a Lancaster. This fascinating story includes film and audio of the women themselves both at the time and recalling events in later years.

MARITIME THEMES

1. "The Life & Exploits of Admiral Lord Cochrane - scourge of the Spanish & French fleets and armies".
Cochrane (1775 - 1860) was the model for best selling authors C S Forrester (Hornblower), Alexander Kent (Bolitho) and more recently Patrick O'Brian with his character Capt. Jack Aubrey. But Cochrane was larger than the life of any of these fictional characters. He was both an Admiral and a Member of Parliament. He pioneered what are now called "combined operations" using his sailors and marines on land and sea to attack and contain the Spanish & French. Napoleon called him "the sea wolf". His actions included many along the coast of Spain, including Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Carthegena, Algeceras and Cadiz. His exploits were as famous as those of his contemporary, Nelson, and his fall from grace and eventual re-habilitation extraordinary. After denying defrauding the newly created London Stock Exchange, being found guilty and escaping from prison, he created and led the Chilean Navy, fought along the coasts of South America and was pardoned by Queen Victoria, eventually returning home a hero once again. Recent research adds a twist to this unbelievable tale.

2. "Wolf Pack - The Atlantic U-Boats, their successes, failures and sacrifices."
After the fall of Norway, Belgium, Holland and France in early 1940 the whole West coast of Europe came under German control. The South-Western ports of France and the Bay of Biscay were ideal for constructing bases from which aircraft could protect the massive effort by German U-Boats to blockade the United Kingdom in what Winston Churchill called "The Battle of the Atlantic". After the war he wrote: "The Battle of the Atlantic was the dominating factor all through the war. Never for one moment could we forget that everything happening elsewhere, on land, at sea or in the air depended ultimately on its outcome." That Battle was fought, primarily, by submarines most of which sailed through the waters off the SW coast of France and through the Bay of Biscay. Their story is one of courage, bravery and sacrifice, but also of eventual defeat. The heroism of both sides in the unforgiving waters of the Atlantic Ocean should never be forgotten and the story of the Battle of the Atlantic.

SOUTH AMERICAN THEMES

1. Devil's Island - Myths, Legends and Conspiracies
France's most famous penal colony, its history and purpose. The story of some of its residents and how two of them drew world-wide fame.

2. The Battle of the River Plate
The first major naval battle of World War II and Hitler's first defeat on the high seas.

3. Thomas Lord Cochrane - An Admiral in five navies.
Cochrane, after being cashiered from the British Royal Navy, became an admiral in the nascent navies of Chile, Peru and Brazil. He fought for the independence of those countries from Spain and Portugal before moving on to command a similar position in the Greek navy. Thomas Cochrane was an incredible sailor, inventor, strategist and tactical user of combined operations; generations ahead of his time and the model for most historical maritime fiction.

12 years sailing all over the world with Azamara, Seadream, Viking, Fred Olsen, P&O, Regent, Crystal & Viking. Highly experienced speaker and retired national museum director/ historian. Always scored very highly in passenger feedback and often used by cruise directors to fill in or undertake extra duties like hosting reunions, managing veterans' get-togethers etc. Often used by Cruise Directors to 'fill-in' when itineraries or circumstances demand. Have been used in on-board panel discussions and private group talks on specialist subjects like Port Wine.

CRUISES COMPLETED
1 01/10/11 - 15/10/11 P & O Oceana Southampton Southampton Mediterranean 15
2 11/07/13 - 26/07/13 Saga Ruby Dover Dover North Cape 15
3 01/02/14 - 24/02/14 Saga Pearl II Cape Town Southampton W Africa 23
4 24/04/14 - 09/05/14 SeaDream Yacht Club SeaDream II Mumbai Pireus/Athens Oman & Suez 16
5 07/10/14 - 18/10/14 Saga Pearl II UK/Pireus Istanbul/UK Black Sea 11
6 21/12/14 - 18/01/15 Regent Seven Seas Voyager Cape Town Singapore E Africa Java 28
7 03/02/15 - 17/02/15 Azamara Club Cruises Quest Singapore Bali Indonesia 14
8 20/03/15 - 04/04/15 Saga Pearl II Southampton Southampton Norway 14
9 07/09/15 - 22/09/15 Saga Pearl II Dover Dover Baltic Capitals 15
10 25/03/16 - 10/04/16 Crystal Symphony Miami Monte Carlo Atlantic 17
11 03/09/16 - 10/09/16 Fred Olsen Black Watch Rosyth Rosyth Norway 7
12 15/04/17 - 06/05/17 Viking Ocean Viking Sky Barcelona Stockholm Atlantic/Baltic 21
13 09/07/17 - 23/07/17 Viking Ocean Viking Sea London Bergen N Sea/Baltic 14
14 23/07/17 - 06/08/17 Viking Ocean Viking Sea Bergen Stockholm Baltic 14
15 04/11/17 - 22/11/17 Crystal Symphony Rome Dubai Suez Canal 18
16 22/01/18 - 05/02/18 Crystal Symphony Mauritius Perth Indian Ocean 14
17 08/02/18 - 22/02/18 Azamara Club Cruises Journey Sydney Auckland Hobart 15
18 29/07/18 - 12/08/18 Crystal Serenity Dover Monte Carlo Bay of Biscay 14
19 13/12/18 - 03/01/19 Viking Ocean Viking Star Miami Los Angeles Panama Canal 22
20 25/04/19 - 09/05/19 Viking Ocean Viking Jupiter Barcelona Copenhagen 15
21 09/05/19 - 19/05/19 Viking Ocean Viking Jupiter Copenhagen Stockho;m Baltic 10
22 21/12/19 - 11/01/20 Viking Ocean Viking Sea San Juan San Juan Amazon 22

Please check out my website at www.michaelfopptalks.com
I am fully vaccinated against Covid 19 & Yellow Fever
I have recurring travel insurance.

The following recent Cruise History has been recorded for this candidate.