FatGeekUK

I have just finished watching U-571. An American made film about capturing of enigma equipment during the second world war. Now, I went in, KNOWING that I would be annoyed, but willing to forgo historical veracity for the sake of a good story, and in that frame of mind I was able to enjoy the film.

But, it came to the end, and before the end credits, the following came up on screen.

This film is dedicated to the bravery of Allied sailors and officers who risked their lives capturing Enigma materials from U-boats during the Battle of the Atlantic.

May 9, 1941
Enigma machine and coding documents captured from U-110 by HMS Bulldog and HMS Aubretia of the 3rd Escort Group

October 30, 1942
Short weather cipher captured from U-559 by HMS Petard

June 4, 1944
Enigma machine and coding documents captured from U-505 by U.S. Navy Task Force 22.3

Now, I have nothing but admiration for the finesse with which the American producers of the film have spun the facts there.

First, what does H.M.S stand for? What part of the American Military? Which military? which Nation? well, I dunno, it does not SAY… but, when it is a U.S. operation, they say. In actual fact, HMS stood for HIS MAGESTIES SHIP. The designation given to ships from the ROYAL NAVY, thats BRITAIN folks, not an American in sight.

Also, the main source of intel regarding the Enigma system was not gained from these boats. It was gained early on, before the fall of Poland by the POLISH intelligence agencies, and smuggled out from Poland when it fell. Smuggled to England, where the staff of Bletchley Park worked to crack the ciphers with the help of Colossus and Alan Turing.

Yes, no doubt the people on all of those missions displayed great heroism, but the portrayal of the importance of this event and who actually made a difference, well… Frankly, if we where not already winning by 1944 when the American operation took place, well, we probably would not have won.

Ok, Mr Angry is stepping down, after having vented his puss filled spleen.