A museum talk in Richmond will delve into one of the most intriguing “what-if” moments of the Second World War.
Retired Green Howards officer Jonathan Cunningham MBE will present Operation Sealion: The Battle That Was Never Fought at The Green Howards Museum on Friday, May 8.
The talk will explore Operation Sea Lion, Adolf Hitler’s plan to invade Britain in 1940 following the rapid fall of much of Western Europe.
Mr Cunningham will examine how the proposed invasion hinged on defeating the Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain, as well as gaining control of the seas—something ultimately prevented by the strength of the Royal Navy.
The presentation will also highlight Britain’s defensive preparations, including intelligence efforts such as codebreaking at Bletchley Park, and how these played a crucial role in thwarting the threat of invasion.
Mr Cunningham, who was commissioned into the Green Howards in 1994, served for 16 years in a range of intelligence and operational roles, including deployments in Northern Ireland and Iraq. Since leaving the Army, he has established a health and safety consultancy and now manages care homes in Southport.
Organisers say the event offers a rare opportunity to hear expert insight into one of the most significant turning points of the war, combining military history with first-hand professional experience.
The talk will run from 6pm to 8pm, with tickets priced at £15. Advance booking is recommended as places are limited.
Visit www.greenhowards.org.uk for more details.
