Walter's War

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0:00:21 > 0:00:24EXPLOSIONS

0:00:26 > 0:00:28GUNFIRE AND SHOUTING

0:00:33 > 0:00:34GET UP!

0:00:37 > 0:00:38EXPLOSION

0:00:39 > 0:00:42- Permission to speak frankly, sir. - Go ahead.

0:00:42 > 0:00:45From their vantage point, Fritz has seen all our preparations.

0:00:45 > 0:00:50- We're leading these men to certain death, sir.- Sergeant Tull,

0:00:50 > 0:00:52I could have you court-martialled.

0:00:52 > 0:00:55I value you, but never contradict an order.

0:00:57 > 0:01:00No matter how sound your logic may be.

0:01:00 > 0:01:04- Yes, sir.- Get the men ready.

0:01:06 > 0:01:10If all things were right, you would make an excellent commissioned officer.

0:01:12 > 0:01:15But they're not, are they, sir?

0:01:21 > 0:01:23GUNFIRE AND SHOUTING

0:01:26 > 0:01:29EXPLOSIONS

0:01:34 > 0:01:36GUNFIRE

0:01:37 > 0:01:39GUNFIRE

0:01:41 > 0:01:42GUNFIRE

0:01:44 > 0:01:45EXPLOSION

0:01:45 > 0:01:47EXPLOSION AND SHOUTING

0:01:53 > 0:01:56EXPLOSION AND SHOUTING

0:02:10 > 0:02:13EXPLOSION

0:02:49 > 0:02:52Sergeant... Sergeant...

0:02:52 > 0:02:55Stretcher bearer! Stretcher bearer!

0:03:06 > 0:03:09EXPLOSION AND GUNFIRE

0:03:14 > 0:03:18We have to be ten times better just to be equal.

0:03:51 > 0:03:54FOOTBALL CROWD CHEER

0:04:00 > 0:04:04MUSIC PLAYS

0:04:13 > 0:04:17GUNFIRE AND EXPLOSIONS IN HIS MIND

0:04:26 > 0:04:27GUNFIRE AND EXPLOSIONS

0:04:42 > 0:04:46- So... How are you feeling today? - Better.

0:04:46 > 0:04:49Stronger.

0:04:49 > 0:04:52Back to my old self, definitely.

0:04:52 > 0:04:55- You don't look it. - Why thank you, brother.

0:04:59 > 0:05:03Among my letters yesterday, there was one...

0:05:03 > 0:05:05An honourable discharge is no shame, Walter.

0:05:05 > 0:05:08They've not discharged me, Eddie.

0:05:09 > 0:05:12They've offered me the chance to train as an officer.

0:05:12 > 0:05:17- But you're hardly out of your sick bed, Walter.- I'm fine.

0:05:17 > 0:05:19- I'm fine.- You have trench fever.

0:05:19 > 0:05:22- You were sick enough for them to send you home.- Well I'm fine now.

0:05:24 > 0:05:26You're going to say no, of course.

0:05:26 > 0:05:28I've never seen an officer that...

0:05:29 > 0:05:32..looks like us before.

0:05:32 > 0:05:36- Have you? Isn't this something we should be thinking about?- No. - Come on.

0:05:36 > 0:05:40Pa always said to aim for the top, be second to no man.

0:05:40 > 0:05:43You were second to no man on the football pitch.

0:05:43 > 0:05:47It didn't stop them booing you, dropping you, selling you.

0:05:47 > 0:05:49They're asking to do my bit.

0:05:49 > 0:05:54They're asking you to risk your life again, Walter.

0:05:56 > 0:06:00You think you can survive that again?

0:06:10 > 0:06:12Atten-tion!

0:06:17 > 0:06:20Welcome to Gailes. My name is Captain Coombes and

0:06:20 > 0:06:24I'll be in charge of your officer training for the next four months.

0:06:24 > 0:06:29By the time you leave here, you will be the most superior of men.

0:06:31 > 0:06:34one or two of you have seen action on the frontlines but

0:06:34 > 0:06:39here we start again and we start as equals with one aim in mind.

0:06:39 > 0:06:42To make you officers of the finest army in the world.

0:06:47 > 0:06:48At ease.

0:06:52 > 0:06:57I see it was Colonel Haig-Brown who recommended you for officer training?

0:06:57 > 0:06:59A good man, Haig-Brown.

0:07:04 > 0:07:07I shan't beat about the bush, Tull.

0:07:07 > 0:07:11I know we're in desperate need of officers, but this is a step too far.

0:07:11 > 0:07:19Celebrated footballer or not, I am a man of military law, and it says here,

0:07:19 > 0:07:26page 198 to be precise, that officers shall be of pure European descent.

0:07:26 > 0:07:31Page 471, sub-section two, note three, "That negroes and other

0:07:31 > 0:07:36"persons of colour shall not exercise any actual command or power."

0:07:38 > 0:07:41This is not about prejudice, Tull.

0:07:41 > 0:07:43It's simply logic.

0:07:43 > 0:07:46A negro officer would affect the morale of the men.

0:07:46 > 0:07:48Permission to speak, sir?

0:07:48 > 0:07:49Granted.

0:07:49 > 0:07:52- I have led white men previously, sir.- Nonsense!

0:07:52 > 0:07:57You were a non-commissioned officer, carrying out orders given to you by a superior.

0:08:01 > 0:08:05Now, I cannot contradict my superiors.

0:08:05 > 0:08:06Be warned, Tull,

0:08:06 > 0:08:09my job is to ensure the smooth running of this camp.

0:08:09 > 0:08:14Anything that gets in the way of that is an enemy, not just of mine, but of the war effort.

0:08:14 > 0:08:17And it will not be tolerated.

0:08:17 > 0:08:19Do I make myself clear?

0:08:21 > 0:08:23Perfectly, sir.

0:08:24 > 0:08:25Dismissed.

0:09:02 > 0:09:04This really is the short straw,

0:09:04 > 0:09:08- in the middle of bloody nowhere. - No man's land.

0:09:08 > 0:09:10I'm not looking forward to PT. Never my forte.

0:09:10 > 0:09:13And what is your forte?

0:09:13 > 0:09:15- Nothing much. - Then what are you doing here?

0:09:15 > 0:09:17Target practice for Fritz.

0:09:17 > 0:09:20- My country needs me. - Our country must be desperate.

0:09:20 > 0:09:21Stand by your beds!

0:09:31 > 0:09:34- Why is this bed empty? - May I speak frankly, sir?

0:09:35 > 0:09:39- Go ahead.- I refuse to sleep in the same room as a negro.

0:09:42 > 0:09:44Then I suggest you sleep outside.

0:09:44 > 0:09:46Either that or go home immediately.

0:09:46 > 0:09:49Either option's fine by me.

0:10:01 > 0:10:04Cadet Tull, did you bring slacks and shirts to match?

0:10:04 > 0:10:06No, sir.

0:10:06 > 0:10:09Should I dispose of the shoes, sir?

0:10:09 > 0:10:11First sign of a good officer.

0:10:11 > 0:10:12Sacrifice.

0:10:26 > 0:10:30Thank you. Contribution to the battalion funds.

0:10:44 > 0:10:47I expect you to behave like gentlemen.

0:10:53 > 0:10:55BELL RINGS

0:10:55 > 0:10:59Wakey-wakey, my little lovelies!

0:10:59 > 0:11:02Time for a wee stroll.

0:11:02 > 0:11:06A little five-mile run round the camp.

0:11:06 > 0:11:09Too much chat, not enough movement.

0:11:09 > 0:11:14Come on, or I'll have you doing 150 press-ups before your day begins.

0:11:21 > 0:11:24We're supposed to be running, not strolling.

0:11:24 > 0:11:28We're shaking yesterday's long journey from our legs.

0:11:28 > 0:11:32We're waking up the mind. We need to think!

0:11:32 > 0:11:35Mr Tull, you're supposed to be an athlete.

0:11:35 > 0:11:37Faster.

0:11:37 > 0:11:39I said faster!

0:11:39 > 0:11:42- Who's the slowcoach? - Cadet Willis, sir.

0:11:42 > 0:11:44A bit of a pudding.

0:11:44 > 0:11:48- How are the men with Tull? - Too early to say, sir.

0:11:48 > 0:11:52- Anything untoward, let me know immediately.- Yes, sir.

0:11:52 > 0:11:54Mr Willis, you're walking!

0:11:54 > 0:11:56This isn't a Sunday stroll!

0:11:56 > 0:12:00If Fritz could see you now, he'd be laughing his cock off.

0:12:00 > 0:12:02- I'm trying, sir.- Stop now.

0:12:02 > 0:12:04Everyone stop now!

0:12:04 > 0:12:06Attention.

0:12:06 > 0:12:10Don't ever answer me back, Mr Willis. Ever!

0:12:10 > 0:12:14Any of you try that trick, I'll have you on a seven-day latrine duty in a flash.

0:12:14 > 0:12:16Do you hear me?

0:12:16 > 0:12:18- ALL: Yes, sir!- Get moving!

0:12:23 > 0:12:25My feet...

0:12:30 > 0:12:31WOLF WHISTLES

0:12:50 > 0:12:52My friend...

0:12:52 > 0:12:57Well, he's simply too shy to tell you that he thinks you're

0:12:57 > 0:13:03the most amazing vision of beauty he's ever seen. I happen to agree with him.

0:13:03 > 0:13:04You both are...

0:13:06 > 0:13:10- ..well, simply the Madonnas. - Can we get a move on?

0:13:10 > 0:13:11I think I love you.

0:13:12 > 0:13:14Sorry about my friend.

0:13:14 > 0:13:17It's fine. Rather sweet, actually.

0:13:23 > 0:13:25Thank you.

0:13:27 > 0:13:30You look like you need a little extra.

0:13:37 > 0:13:41- I'm Connie, by the way. - Walter. Walter Tull.

0:13:42 > 0:13:45Thank you.

0:13:45 > 0:13:47- What you doing that for?- Doing what?

0:13:47 > 0:13:49Being all gooey with him.

0:13:49 > 0:13:53- I wasn't being anything. - Yes, you were. You were all... - He spoke to me, I spoke back.

0:13:53 > 0:13:56What am I supposed to do, ignore the man?

0:14:00 > 0:14:03Sorry, dear boy. Oxford only.

0:14:03 > 0:14:05No plebeians allowed.

0:14:05 > 0:14:09- My father is hardly... - I don't care what your father is.

0:14:09 > 0:14:11This table is full.

0:14:30 > 0:14:34God, it's cold up here.

0:14:34 > 0:14:38- Aye.- They do say it will get warmer, however.

0:14:38 > 0:14:42- Or we'll get used to it. - Would you mind terribly if we...?

0:14:49 > 0:14:53Fine. I understand.

0:15:00 > 0:15:03How many of you men have used a rifle before?

0:15:05 > 0:15:08How many of you have shot at a man before?

0:15:12 > 0:15:16As I'm sure you can attest, it is a totally different affair.

0:15:16 > 0:15:21The first thing you have to learn is how to hold the rifle with respect.

0:15:21 > 0:15:24With love, even. Like a woman.

0:15:26 > 0:15:29Any of you private schoolboys held a woman before?

0:15:29 > 0:15:32Did I say something funny, Mr Hennessy?

0:15:32 > 0:15:35- No, sir.- Mr Tull.

0:15:35 > 0:15:40I'm told you're no stranger to showing the white man how it's done.

0:15:40 > 0:15:45Come on, let's not monkey about.

0:15:46 > 0:15:47Demonstrate for us.

0:15:56 > 0:15:57CROWD CHANTS ECHO IN HIS MIND

0:16:02 > 0:16:04GUNSHOT

0:16:16 > 0:16:19Look, the fans are calling us the nigger team.

0:16:19 > 0:16:22The board don't like it. Best if you sit this one out.

0:16:24 > 0:16:28CROWD CHANTS

0:16:30 > 0:16:33First rank. Standing position.

0:16:41 > 0:16:43Permission to speak freely, sir?

0:16:43 > 0:16:45Carry on.

0:16:47 > 0:16:53I wonder if it might be possible for you not to refer to me in monkey terms.

0:16:53 > 0:16:55Just one of the men, sir.

0:16:58 > 0:17:03Just because a cat's born in a kennel, doesn't make it a dog, Mr Tull.

0:17:17 > 0:17:20Gentlemen, we are all, I assume, men of God.

0:17:20 > 0:17:23So, I do not take it lightly when I tell you that this

0:17:23 > 0:17:26is your Bible.

0:17:26 > 0:17:33The new SS135 and SS143 training manual. Distillation of everything we've learned in this war to date.

0:17:33 > 0:17:36You will read it, understand it,

0:17:36 > 0:17:43devour it and, when the time comes, regurgitate their contents to devastating effect.

0:17:47 > 0:17:51Every scenario, every principle and procedure,

0:17:51 > 0:17:53every detail must become second nature.

0:17:53 > 0:17:56Embedded up here.

0:17:56 > 0:17:58You will be tested.

0:17:58 > 0:18:00On every word.

0:18:00 > 0:18:03Every symbol.

0:18:03 > 0:18:05Are you with us, Mr Tull?

0:18:27 > 0:18:29Getting to you already?

0:18:31 > 0:18:35- I suppose you'll have had far worse than that on a football pitch. - Far worse.

0:18:37 > 0:18:39Interesting place, though, this.

0:18:41 > 0:18:47The brightest and the best, being trained so we can lead more men to their deaths.

0:18:47 > 0:18:50- That's very optimistic of you. - Am I wrong?

0:18:52 > 0:18:57- You've been there.- If you feel like that, why are you here?

0:18:59 > 0:19:02My father and grandfather were both officers.

0:19:02 > 0:19:05As much as I hate it, I have to be.

0:19:05 > 0:19:08The question is, why are you here, Tull?

0:19:08 > 0:19:12Allowing them to put the wind up you and make an ass of you.

0:19:12 > 0:19:14No-one's making an ass of me.

0:19:16 > 0:19:20You've seen the scale of this massacre and yet you jump when

0:19:20 > 0:19:23they offer you the chance to lead more working men to their deaths.

0:19:25 > 0:19:29And I question a negro being here, Tull.

0:19:29 > 0:19:33I question why a negro, treated as you are in this country,

0:19:33 > 0:19:36would want to be here in the first place.

0:19:49 > 0:19:52Thank you, Connie.

0:19:52 > 0:19:57- You remembered my name.- Yes, it's one word, I'm not stupid you know. - I didn't say you were!

0:19:57 > 0:20:01No, you didn't. Sorry. Thank you.

0:20:01 > 0:20:04- Thank you for opening the door for me.- It's all right.

0:20:04 > 0:20:07So is that how you ladies do it then here?

0:20:07 > 0:20:11- Girls taking the lead?- I don't quite understand what you mean.- You know,

0:20:11 > 0:20:15opening doors, saying hello.

0:20:15 > 0:20:22- If you mean do we have more manners than the English girls, the answer is yes.- I'm glad to hear it.

0:20:22 > 0:20:25Terribly, terribly glad to hear it.

0:20:27 > 0:20:33So, er...what do you well-mannered girls do on a Saturday night in village like this then?

0:20:33 > 0:20:39If she's mindful of her reputation she keeps herself to herself.

0:20:39 > 0:20:46Oh. "Reputation, reputation. I have lost the immortal part of myself and all that remains is bestial."

0:20:46 > 0:20:48Something my brother would say.

0:20:48 > 0:20:53How about you and me find a town far away from here,

0:20:53 > 0:20:57where no-one knows us and...well, we can be free as birds.

0:20:57 > 0:21:02- Are all you coloured boys this forward?- I can't speak for anyone else but me

0:21:02 > 0:21:06- I believe in Carpe Diem. - What's that? That's my favourite saying.

0:21:06 > 0:21:10- It means seize the day. - What African language is that?

0:21:10 > 0:21:12A very ancient,

0:21:12 > 0:21:15ancient African language.

0:21:15 > 0:21:17Latin. So what do you say?

0:21:19 > 0:21:21- So what do you say? Are we stepping out?- No!

0:21:21 > 0:21:23We are not!

0:21:27 > 0:21:33But...maybe if we happened to run into each other at the end of the day,

0:21:33 > 0:21:36there's no law saying you can't walk me home.

0:21:46 > 0:21:50"Be brave, darling. It's only been a day but already I feel derelict."

0:21:50 > 0:21:53Very funny. At least I have a sweetheart.

0:21:53 > 0:21:58- So do I.- Not if you haven't ten bob in you're pocket you don't.

0:21:59 > 0:22:01What are you laughing at, Tull?

0:22:01 > 0:22:03You ever had a white woman that wasn't a whore?

0:22:05 > 0:22:11- Depends what you'd call your mother, Hummings.- What did you say?- Calm down.

0:22:11 > 0:22:16I don't know about you lot but I can't wait to get out of here, get to the front line, kill a few Fritz.

0:22:16 > 0:22:19- Collect my medal. - And return home a hero.

0:22:19 > 0:22:23Can you imagine the amount of girls that'll be waiting for us to propose?

0:22:23 > 0:22:28- It'll all be that easy, hey, boys. - All the men in my family have been to war and come home heroes.

0:22:29 > 0:22:32No-one's died?

0:22:32 > 0:22:35- No-one injured?- Injuries are for weaklings, my friend.

0:22:35 > 0:22:37- All a state of mind.- Here here!

0:22:37 > 0:22:40Yes, I'll sleep on that.

0:22:52 > 0:22:59You don't just have to lead your men intellectually, you have to be superior to them in every way.

0:22:59 > 0:23:05The quickest way to gain their respect is to physically impress them. Go!

0:23:10 > 0:23:14The quickest way to lose their respect is to be weak.

0:23:14 > 0:23:20There's always one that can't handle it and I think that's you, Mr Willis.

0:23:20 > 0:23:22Mr Tull! What do you think you're doing?

0:23:22 > 0:23:25Helping my fellow team member, Sir.

0:23:25 > 0:23:28- You'll stop that right now! - Yes, Sir. I've stopped, Sir.

0:23:28 > 0:23:30Don't play games with me, Mr Tull.

0:23:30 > 0:23:36If Mr Willis cannot complete a basic exercise he should not be here. Carry on.

0:23:43 > 0:23:45GUNSHOTS

0:23:53 > 0:23:54What are you doing here?

0:23:54 > 0:23:59- Came out for some air, that's all. - Thought maybe you were waiting to walk me home.

0:24:06 > 0:24:09SHE LAUGHS

0:24:09 > 0:24:11Have you worked here long?

0:24:11 > 0:24:13Too long!

0:24:13 > 0:24:17When the Army opened this place a year ago my mate Joanne dragged me to help her out.

0:24:17 > 0:24:19I haven't found the escape route yet.

0:24:24 > 0:24:27So I hear you are quite the famous sportsman.

0:24:27 > 0:24:29I don't know about famous.

0:24:29 > 0:24:32I was a footballer but I'm a soldier now.

0:24:32 > 0:24:34At least till the war ends.

0:24:34 > 0:24:40- My dad says he saw you play once. Said you were rubbish.- He must have me mixed up with someone else.

0:24:40 > 0:24:43BOTH LAUGH

0:24:43 > 0:24:47- So, have you heard of Rangers? - My team?

0:24:47 > 0:24:51- I can't be that rubbish if they wanted to sign me, can I? - Is that so?- That is so.

0:24:54 > 0:24:55Do you miss it?

0:24:55 > 0:25:02I miss the travelling but I'm a soldier now. War moves on, time carries on. Till then...

0:25:02 > 0:25:07- You'll just become an officer and travel the world that way.- Yeah.

0:25:07 > 0:25:09Have you been to many places?

0:25:09 > 0:25:15Let's see. I was born in Folkestone, educated in Bethnal Green, London.

0:25:15 > 0:25:18- Sounds posh.- It was an orphanage.

0:25:18 > 0:25:21I have been to Argentina, Uruguay.

0:25:21 > 0:25:24- South America? - Uh huh. For football tournaments.

0:25:24 > 0:25:27We only lost one match, not my fault, you can tell your father.

0:25:27 > 0:25:31- Actually, we all got very ill so basically they cheated.- Excuses.

0:25:31 > 0:25:33No, they did.

0:25:35 > 0:25:38Been to France, helped dig a trench.

0:25:38 > 0:25:41And now I'm in Scotland doing the same thing.

0:25:41 > 0:25:44And how about you?

0:25:44 > 0:25:47No.

0:25:47 > 0:25:49This is it for me.

0:25:49 > 0:25:52Gailes. Scotland.

0:25:52 > 0:25:53It's home.

0:25:56 > 0:25:58And this is where I leave you.

0:26:00 > 0:26:02What? Under the bridge?

0:26:04 > 0:26:06No. My brother waits for me just over it.

0:26:06 > 0:26:08Oh.

0:26:08 > 0:26:12Well... Thanks, Connie.

0:26:12 > 0:26:14It's been the best conversation I've had in a long while.

0:26:14 > 0:26:20- That's because you were talking about yourself.- Oh, yeah.- We should have some more. I'd like that.

0:26:24 > 0:26:25Good.

0:26:25 > 0:26:26BOTH LAUGH

0:26:26 > 0:26:29- We'll talk about...- Good night.

0:26:29 > 0:26:31- Yeah.- Good night. - We'll talk about you next time.

0:26:31 > 0:26:33Good.

0:26:33 > 0:26:34Good night.

0:26:34 > 0:26:36BOTH LAUGH

0:26:54 > 0:27:00It is the role of the officer to ensure that the men under his command follow the barrage

0:27:00 > 0:27:04at the correct pace and at the correct distance.

0:27:04 > 0:27:0950 yards is about as close as we would risk.

0:27:09 > 0:27:14So, let's see who knows their yards from their feet.

0:27:14 > 0:27:22On a beautiful clear day like this, identifying the 50-yard mark may not be much of a problem.

0:27:22 > 0:27:24However...

0:27:32 > 0:27:33Like this,

0:27:33 > 0:27:40well, it's a little more difficult, isn't it, gentlemen?

0:27:42 > 0:27:47Move as quickly as you can to what you believe to be the 50-yard mark,

0:27:47 > 0:27:53stick your flag in the earth and return to first position.

0:27:53 > 0:27:56Go!

0:27:56 > 0:28:01Remember you have men either side of you.

0:28:01 > 0:28:06What you think is earth might be your best friend's big toe.

0:28:12 > 0:28:15GUNFIRE AND EXPLOSIONS IN HIS MIND

0:28:33 > 0:28:36Come on! Come on, Tull!

0:28:39 > 0:28:43Well, that was a mess wasn't it, gentlemen?

0:28:43 > 0:28:46Mr Tull,

0:28:46 > 0:28:49I'm knocking you out cos you've done it before.

0:28:49 > 0:28:51That makes the winner...

0:28:51 > 0:28:54Mr Willis.

0:28:54 > 0:28:57Hold onto the celebration, Mr Willis.

0:28:57 > 0:29:00You're still a few feet out.

0:29:00 > 0:29:05That few feet could mean the difference between life and death.

0:29:05 > 0:29:07Attention!

0:29:13 > 0:29:15You see that?!

0:29:35 > 0:29:40I just wanted to thank you for helping me and...

0:29:41 > 0:29:43..sorry about the other day.

0:29:58 > 0:30:04So, gentlemen. Once again I say this is all about speed.

0:30:04 > 0:30:07Getting the bullets into the magazine as quickly as possible.

0:30:07 > 0:30:09If the Lewis gunner has to wait,

0:30:09 > 0:30:12that could be the end of your platoon.

0:30:14 > 0:30:16Mr Tull.

0:30:16 > 0:30:19Are you listening, Mr Tull?

0:30:19 > 0:30:24Just because you have done this before does not mean you do not have to listen.

0:30:27 > 0:30:29Mr Hummings.

0:30:56 > 0:30:59That is useless, Mr Hummings!

0:30:59 > 0:31:01A Girl Guide could do this exercise quicker.

0:31:02 > 0:31:05Mr Tull. Replace Mr Hummings.

0:31:08 > 0:31:09Parade yourself, boy!

0:31:10 > 0:31:12I didn't ask Mr Cooper.

0:31:12 > 0:31:14What are you looking at him for?

0:31:42 > 0:31:45What's the matter with you, boy? Get on with it.

0:31:45 > 0:31:48Maybe this is all too much for you, eh, Mr Tull?

0:31:48 > 0:31:49Maybe it is, Sir.

0:31:49 > 0:31:51Or maybe I just don't like being called boy or paraded.

0:31:51 > 0:31:54Don't be facetious with me, Mr Tull!

0:31:54 > 0:31:56Facetious, sir. I don't know what that means.

0:31:56 > 0:31:58Out! Out, right now!

0:32:06 > 0:32:08Do you think this is the right way to go about this, cadet Tull?

0:32:08 > 0:32:09About what, sir?

0:32:09 > 0:32:11Don't!

0:32:15 > 0:32:17I know what you're going through, Tull.

0:32:17 > 0:32:20With respect, sir, I don't think you do.

0:32:21 > 0:32:28I have been praised and promoted for serving our country, and yet I have not been afforded the respect...

0:32:28 > 0:32:30Respect is not handed out here, it is earned.

0:32:30 > 0:32:32How can I earn it?!

0:32:33 > 0:32:34Fuller speaks to me as if I'm...

0:32:34 > 0:32:39That is all part of your training, Tull, your specific training.

0:32:39 > 0:32:44You think it'll all be fine on the field because men have followed you before?

0:32:44 > 0:32:45Think again.

0:32:45 > 0:32:48You were not their superior officer!

0:32:49 > 0:32:54Now I'm minded to recommend to Colonel Baxter that you be released from Gailes.

0:32:56 > 0:32:58Have you nothing to say?

0:33:00 > 0:33:02Then I'll give you till Monday.

0:33:02 > 0:33:05Dismissed, Mr Tull.

0:33:17 > 0:33:18Dear Father,

0:33:18 > 0:33:21thank you for...

0:33:21 > 0:33:24the gift of family...

0:33:24 > 0:33:27and of food...

0:33:27 > 0:33:29and, er...

0:33:29 > 0:33:31everything else.

0:33:32 > 0:33:34Amen.

0:33:34 > 0:33:35Amen.

0:33:37 > 0:33:39That was very articulate(!)

0:33:40 > 0:33:42We can't all be the pillars of the community, can we?

0:33:42 > 0:33:45Don't be jealous now just because I have a steady job!

0:33:45 > 0:33:48Steady job! You don't take money from half your patients.

0:33:48 > 0:33:49Only the half who can't afford to pay.

0:33:49 > 0:33:53It's a wonder you've got any food in your house at all.

0:33:55 > 0:33:56So, how are you feeling?

0:33:56 > 0:33:58Fine.

0:33:58 > 0:34:00Everything's fine.

0:34:02 > 0:34:04So you're fitting in all right?

0:34:11 > 0:34:14They've given me till Monday

0:34:14 > 0:34:17to tell them whether or not I want to stay at Gailes.

0:34:17 > 0:34:20And I don't know.

0:34:20 > 0:34:25I've never walked out on anything in my life.

0:34:25 > 0:34:27I wish it were as straightforward as my colour.

0:34:29 > 0:34:30But it's more than that.

0:34:35 > 0:34:37I keep falling into sweats.

0:34:39 > 0:34:41Keep seeing things I've pushed out of my mind.

0:34:41 > 0:34:43Then you won't be walking out on anything!

0:34:43 > 0:34:45Rangers are just waiting for you to return.

0:34:45 > 0:34:50I don't care about football right now, Eddie. I don't care!

0:34:50 > 0:34:53That's all you've got to say to me? Come home?

0:34:53 > 0:34:55What else do you want me to say?

0:35:00 > 0:35:06Do you remember when Pa used to tell us stories of Grandad in the West Indies?

0:35:10 > 0:35:12How do you think Grandpa survived?

0:35:12 > 0:35:14I contend he just got on with it.

0:35:14 > 0:35:21I can't imagine what our grandfather went through, Walter, but I do know he didn't choose to be a slave.

0:35:21 > 0:35:23He didn't choose his path.

0:35:25 > 0:35:28- You, on the other hand, Walter... - Some might say it chose me.

0:35:28 > 0:35:31Well, I'm not one of them.

0:35:57 > 0:36:00What you did was stupid, Tull...

0:36:00 > 0:36:03You don't trade blow for blow with the establishment.

0:36:05 > 0:36:07You outsmart them.

0:36:07 > 0:36:09Outthink them, Walter.

0:36:09 > 0:36:13I... I don't know what your point is.

0:36:15 > 0:36:17I've seen the way you jump when a gun's fired.

0:36:19 > 0:36:21The way you sweat when you remember.

0:36:23 > 0:36:24You may fool the others,

0:36:24 > 0:36:28but a man who's seen shells exploding in front of his face

0:36:28 > 0:36:33understands why this cannot be allowed to go on for longer.

0:36:35 > 0:36:38The Russian troops are in mutiny in Petrograd,

0:36:38 > 0:36:41there are rumours of unrest amongst the French.

0:36:41 > 0:36:43How long before it hits our boys?

0:36:43 > 0:36:46I don't think it will.

0:36:49 > 0:36:51It depends who's leading them.

0:36:59 > 0:37:01I want to be an officer

0:37:01 > 0:37:06because I know that I can do a better job than those that led me.

0:37:08 > 0:37:10I'm not gonna lead our men into mutiny.

0:37:11 > 0:37:15If I were you, I'd be very careful who I spoke to in that fashion.

0:37:15 > 0:37:18It's very dangerous talk.

0:37:40 > 0:37:42So, Cadet Tull.

0:37:42 > 0:37:47Sir, if you would allow me, I'd like to stay on.

0:37:47 > 0:37:48Succeed.

0:37:49 > 0:37:52Serve my country the best way I can.

0:37:52 > 0:37:55Is that your honest feeling, Tull?

0:37:55 > 0:37:58Yes, Sir, it is.

0:37:58 > 0:38:00Then stay you shall.

0:38:01 > 0:38:03Thank you, sir.

0:38:19 > 0:38:22How do you survive...war...

0:38:22 > 0:38:24Walter?

0:38:25 > 0:38:27Hmmm.

0:38:27 > 0:38:32With the help of the men around you, I suppose.

0:38:32 > 0:38:33The team...

0:38:36 > 0:38:37and God.

0:38:39 > 0:38:42You can't dodge a bullet, the bullet has to miss you.

0:38:47 > 0:38:51The best way to survive war is not to think about death.

0:38:51 > 0:38:53Even though it's all around you?

0:38:56 > 0:38:58So's life...

0:38:58 > 0:38:59friendship...

0:39:03 > 0:39:06It's hard to understand unless you've been there, but you'll see.

0:39:08 > 0:39:10You find brothers in war...

0:39:13 > 0:39:16Men prepared to lay their lives down for you.

0:39:16 > 0:39:18Not just for King,

0:39:20 > 0:39:21but for you.

0:39:44 > 0:39:48# We've watched you playing cricket and every kind of game

0:39:48 > 0:39:52# At football, golf and polo you men have made your name

0:39:52 > 0:39:58# But now your country calls you to play your part in war

0:39:58 > 0:40:05# And no matter what befalls you, we shall love you all the more

0:40:06 > 0:40:14# So come and join the forces like your fathers did before

0:40:15 > 0:40:18# Oh, we don't want to lose you... #

0:40:18 > 0:40:21Cooper!... Cooper...

0:40:21 > 0:40:26# ..go, For your King and your country... #

0:40:26 > 0:40:27Tull!

0:40:27 > 0:40:31# Both need you so

0:40:31 > 0:40:35# We shall want you and miss you

0:40:35 > 0:40:38# But with all our might and main

0:40:38 > 0:40:45# We shall cheer you, thank you, bless you

0:40:45 > 0:40:49# When you come home again

0:40:49 > 0:40:52# Oh, we don't want to lose you... #

0:40:54 > 0:40:56Sorry.

0:40:57 > 0:40:59- Cheeky!- I can't help it.

0:40:59 > 0:41:03Look, would you mind terribly if I didn't walk you home tonight? It's just the boys...

0:41:03 > 0:41:07It's important you stay with the boys. I'll be fine.

0:41:07 > 0:41:11- You sure?- I was fine walking home before you got here, wasn't I?

0:41:11 > 0:41:13Yeah.

0:41:15 > 0:41:16See you again tomorrow.

0:41:29 > 0:41:32- Do you honestly think she'll wait for me?- Course she will.

0:41:32 > 0:41:35- He's a brilliant man, isn't he, Willis.- A great and brilliant man.

0:41:35 > 0:41:38- Do you really think so?- I do.

0:41:38 > 0:41:39If I was your woman, Ozzy.

0:41:39 > 0:41:41Look. Let's stop right there, shall we?

0:41:41 > 0:41:45Why? Why would you stop a man from showing his true feelings?

0:41:45 > 0:41:47Carry on, Willis.

0:41:47 > 0:41:52If I were you, gentlemen, I'd carry on to your beds and get an early night.

0:41:52 > 0:41:54Mills bomb practice in the morning.

0:41:54 > 0:41:57Lots of bangs and whizzes.

0:41:57 > 0:42:01- It'll feel as if you're on the front line itself.- Hoo-ra!

0:42:23 > 0:42:25Tull. Tull!

0:42:25 > 0:42:27You're having a nightmare.

0:42:29 > 0:42:31You were having a nightmare.

0:42:36 > 0:42:41You're lucky the others were so drunk, otherwise everyone would have heard you.

0:42:41 > 0:42:43What was I saying?

0:42:43 > 0:42:45Walter, your nerves are shot.

0:42:46 > 0:42:49How are you going to lead men into battle?

0:42:52 > 0:42:53I'm fine, Cooper.

0:42:59 > 0:43:03Gentlemen. This may be the last time you do this exercise,

0:43:03 > 0:43:09and there is not a life on the other end of this that will not be damaged.

0:43:09 > 0:43:12The Mills bomb.

0:43:12 > 0:43:15This is live ammunition, gentlemen.

0:43:15 > 0:43:18I reiterate, this is live.

0:43:18 > 0:43:20If you mess it up, you lose a limb.

0:43:20 > 0:43:25If you lose a limb, you are no good to your country, or dare I say,

0:43:25 > 0:43:27the wives you will not attract...

0:43:27 > 0:43:32or, if by some freak chance you do, certainly not satisfy.

0:43:32 > 0:43:34We don't throw them.

0:43:34 > 0:43:37What do we do, Mr Cooper?

0:43:37 > 0:43:39We lob them, sir.

0:43:39 > 0:43:44Correct. We lob them, taking care not to hit the overhead-parapet

0:43:44 > 0:43:48and have them rebounding back into our own bloody trench!

0:43:48 > 0:43:54You may laugh but it happens and it's far from funny when it does.

0:43:54 > 0:43:56And so...

0:44:00 > 0:44:03Pin out... and we let it go.

0:44:06 > 0:44:07EXPLOSION

0:44:12 > 0:44:14Over to you.

0:44:14 > 0:44:17Mr Hummings.

0:44:33 > 0:44:34Get down! Get down!

0:44:50 > 0:44:54What are you doing? I was going to clear it... Stupid nigger.

0:44:54 > 0:44:57Don't you ever put your hands on me.

0:44:57 > 0:45:00Stop that this instant.

0:45:00 > 0:45:01Let him go.

0:45:03 > 0:45:04LET HIM GO!

0:45:08 > 0:45:13This man saved your stupid ass and that of your comrades.

0:45:13 > 0:45:16If you can't see that, you have no business here.

0:45:17 > 0:45:21Cadet Hummings, apologise right now.

0:45:23 > 0:45:26I said apologise. Sir!

0:45:29 > 0:45:31Bugger this.

0:45:31 > 0:45:32Bugger all of it.

0:45:46 > 0:45:50That was bloody stupid, Mr Tull.

0:45:50 > 0:45:52You should have dived for cover.

0:45:52 > 0:45:55If the officer dies, who leads the men?

0:45:57 > 0:46:00Consider that test failed, cadet Tull.

0:46:00 > 0:46:04In order to graduate you will need to pass every other exam.

0:46:04 > 0:46:05Sir.

0:46:12 > 0:46:16- First line, first wave consists of two sections of six riflemen.- Eight.

0:46:16 > 0:46:17Damn it! Eight.

0:46:20 > 0:46:23- Maybe you should stop, Walter. - Do I look like I need to stop?

0:46:23 > 0:46:25You don't need to talk to me like that!

0:46:27 > 0:46:29- Sorry.- It's all right.

0:46:29 > 0:46:32I understand but you're really pushing yourself.

0:46:32 > 0:46:34Can we just do it again, please?

0:46:34 > 0:46:36- You didn't eat today.- Oh, come on.

0:46:36 > 0:46:40Look, you didn't need to do that. I'm fine. Would you... I'm fine.

0:46:43 > 0:46:46What were you saying about the riflemen again?

0:46:48 > 0:46:50Sorry.

0:46:51 > 0:46:52Thank you.

0:46:58 > 0:47:04Building trenches, care of tools, field geometry, levelling, obstacles and machine gun emplacements...

0:47:04 > 0:47:08All of these subjects you will know like the back of your hand or you will fail.

0:47:08 > 0:47:12There's no shame in failing, only in not doing your best.

0:47:12 > 0:47:14Proceed.

0:47:31 > 0:47:34You're quiet.

0:47:34 > 0:47:35You're suddenly full of beans.

0:47:37 > 0:47:40Take it you think you've passed?

0:47:40 > 0:47:42Whatever happens, happens.

0:47:42 > 0:47:44I've done my best. What else can I do?

0:47:49 > 0:47:51I'm never going to see you again, am I?

0:47:54 > 0:47:56After this, after you've been sent away?

0:47:58 > 0:48:00I mean, even if you wanted to.

0:48:02 > 0:48:04Who's to say you'll even survive?

0:48:04 > 0:48:06Thanks for the vote of confidence.

0:48:06 > 0:48:10Officers are the first ones over.

0:48:10 > 0:48:13The first ones they'll see, the first ones they'll shoot at.

0:48:13 > 0:48:19- It's not in your hands. The bullet has to miss you, remember.- Connie.

0:48:23 > 0:48:24I'm gonna come back.

0:48:26 > 0:48:27I'm gonna come back.

0:48:27 > 0:48:29I'd better...

0:48:29 > 0:48:34- Yeah, your brother will be waiting. - I don't have a brother.- I know.

0:48:42 > 0:48:47It's stupid and I'm going to regret saying this the instant it comes out of my mouth,

0:48:47 > 0:48:48but don't forget me.

0:48:53 > 0:48:55And if you find that you miss me,

0:48:57 > 0:48:58come back.

0:49:01 > 0:49:03Come back to me, Walter.

0:49:03 > 0:49:05How long would you be willing to wait?

0:49:05 > 0:49:07Try me!

0:49:18 > 0:49:19Mr Hennessey.

0:49:19 > 0:49:21Yes!

0:49:21 > 0:49:23Mr Cooper.

0:49:26 > 0:49:29- Mr Willis.- Oh! Thank you.

0:49:29 > 0:49:32Well done, gentlemen.

0:49:34 > 0:49:36Oh, I forgot! Mr Tull.

0:49:54 > 0:49:58Second Lieutenant Walter Daniel John Tull.

0:50:06 > 0:50:09- Well done, Officer Tull. - Thank you, sir.

0:50:25 > 0:50:29Gentlemen, it has given me the great pleasure to see your hard work and determination

0:50:29 > 0:50:33rewarded with the commission of Officer in the British Army.

0:50:33 > 0:50:37I must remind you, however, that the real battle is about to begin.

0:50:39 > 0:50:42Some of you have already lost friends and relatives.

0:50:42 > 0:50:46Their deaths have not been in vain.

0:50:47 > 0:50:51We know that the price of liberty is high,

0:50:51 > 0:50:56but our history and our achievements must be defended.

0:50:57 > 0:51:00Lead your men with courage

0:51:00 > 0:51:02and with honour.

0:51:03 > 0:51:06Thank you, gentlemen.

0:51:06 > 0:51:07Attention!

0:51:17 > 0:51:22# Private Perks was a funny little codger with a smile

0:51:22 > 0:51:24# A funny smile

0:51:24 > 0:51:26# Five feet none... #

0:51:26 > 0:51:28The world's going to change.

0:51:28 > 0:51:30You know that, don't you?

0:51:32 > 0:51:34Hasn't it changed already?

0:51:34 > 0:51:37# He'll have his little joke

0:51:37 > 0:51:39# He can't be suppressed

0:51:39 > 0:51:44# All the other fellows have to grin

0:51:44 > 0:51:49# When he gets this off his chest, hey!

0:51:49 > 0:51:55# Pack up your troubles in your old kit-bag and smile, smile, smile

0:51:56 > 0:52:00# While you've a Lucifer to light your fag

0:52:00 > 0:52:02# Smile, boys, that's the style

0:52:02 > 0:52:07# What's the use of worrying... #

0:52:09 > 0:52:12Where are they sending you?

0:52:12 > 0:52:16Back to the front, I suppose.

0:52:16 > 0:52:18I've been meaning to...

0:52:20 > 0:52:22Pa gave me this just before he died.

0:52:22 > 0:52:25It was given to him by Grandpa.

0:52:25 > 0:52:28He would have wanted you to have it now. I know that.

0:52:31 > 0:52:33So that wherever you are,

0:52:33 > 0:52:35you remember.

0:52:42 > 0:52:45"Look how far we've come."

0:52:47 > 0:52:48Thanks, Eddie.

0:52:54 > 0:52:56Just don't die on me, brother.

0:53:06 > 0:53:09All right, lads. They're almost through on the left flank

0:53:09 > 0:53:11and about to break through the right.

0:53:11 > 0:53:14We hold them till our last round of ammunition.

0:53:14 > 0:53:17NOT the last man.

0:53:17 > 0:53:18Let's show them what we're made of!

0:53:18 > 0:53:22EXPLOSIONS AND GUNFIRE

0:53:26 > 0:53:30Go, go, go! Keep running.

0:53:30 > 0:53:31GO!

0:53:38 > 0:53:40Come on, let's go.

0:53:40 > 0:53:42Get up or you die! Get up!

0:53:42 > 0:53:44Get MOVING!

0:54:01 > 0:54:06'Allow me to say how popular 2nd Lieutenant Walter Tull was throughout the battalion.

0:54:06 > 0:54:09'He was brave and conscientious.

0:54:09 > 0:54:14'He'd been recommended for the Military Cross, and had certainly earned it.

0:54:14 > 0:54:18'The commanding officers had every confidence in him,

0:54:18 > 0:54:19'and he was liked by his men.

0:54:19 > 0:54:22'Now he has made the supreme sacrifice Pro Patria.

0:54:25 > 0:54:29'The battalion and company have lost a faithful officer.'

0:55:05 > 0:55:10# We've watched you playing cricket and every kind of game

0:55:10 > 0:55:14# At football, golf and polo You men have made your name

0:55:14 > 0:55:20# But now your country calls you to play your part in war

0:55:20 > 0:55:23# And no matter what befalls you

0:55:23 > 0:55:28# We shall love you all the more

0:55:29 > 0:55:36# So come and join the forces as your fathers did before

0:55:36 > 0:55:41# Oh, we don't want to lose you

0:55:41 > 0:55:44# But we think you ought to go

0:55:44 > 0:55:52# For your King and your country both need you so

0:55:52 > 0:55:55# We shall want you and miss you

0:55:55 > 0:55:59# But with all our might and main

0:55:59 > 0:56:05# We shall cheer you, thank you, bless you

0:56:05 > 0:56:10# When you come home again

0:56:10 > 0:56:14# Oh, we don't want to lose you

0:56:14 > 0:56:18# But we think you ought to go

0:56:18 > 0:56:25# For your King and your country both need you so

0:56:25 > 0:56:29# We shall want you and miss you

0:56:29 > 0:56:33# But with all our might and main

0:56:33 > 0:56:40# We shall cheer you, thank you, bless you

0:56:40 > 0:56:44# When you come home again. #

0:56:44 > 0:56:46Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd

0:56:46 > 0:56:48E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk