Over Here

I was an extra on Over Here while I was in the USAF stationed in the UK. We filmed our part at RAF Sculthorpe, an old disused USAF base, just north of our base in Norfolk. We really had a lot of fun, and got paid! The director, Tony Dow had it right using us, we were disciplined, trained to react to an attack (that was us in the Airfield Bombardment) and could wear a uniform. The scene where I called the room to attention was me! I was a senior NCO so had done this a few times before:) It was amazing, because the GI's jumped, but you could tell the actors were a little unused to snapping to attention!Also, you do not look around but look straight until you hear the command, as you were, or take your seats. Anyway, I digress, please BBC, put it on DVD!

This two-episoder is packed with superb one-liners, lovable pomposity, and, while there is quite a bit of national leg-pulling, nothing which could be called malicious. - WHY is this not available ??? I recorded the two-parter on video when it was broadcast and lent it to many friends who agreed that it was one of the best shows they had seen. Unfortunately the video became lost - I've waited for a BBC repeat in vain : I'm sure if the BBC were to make it available, it would fly up the bestseller lists ! and 'in a funny sort of way' it would !! Martin Clunes as Group Captain Barker is no less than superb, and is backed up by some very fine talent all round.

As Joe had written, I to was in the movie and had a great time shooting it. Working with Martin Kluns (telling him jokes) and many of the other actors was a blast. To continue on Joe's statement, after we seated and we were listening to the General, he was telling a joke and we did not laugh. It was an uneasy moment of silence, that was planed that way. During the silence the camera focused directly on me and I did not know that until the movie was released On December 31. As an American serviceman making the movie we had the chance also to work with our counterparts in the Royal Air Force which was fun as well. Even though a lot of our scenes were shot separate from theirs. Please BBC, release the film on DVD. I have my recorded copy but it is in PAL and I do not get to watch it anymore. Great cast, great director, great crew, great fun.

I have contacted the BBC regarding 'Over Here', they tell me it's not available at present on DVD, but if they get enough people ask for it then there's a possibility it can be released.

If you want to join the campaign to get 'Over Here' on DVD then please write to the BBC at the following address: BBC, Programming & Acquisitions Department, 2 entertain, 33 Foley Street, London W1W 7TL

This programme was released in April 1996, and was one of the most hilarious comedy/dramas the BBC has ever released.

The more people we get to contact them about this, then the more chance we have of getting this on DVD. Thanks to all.

I had a 'few'bit parts in this,from running around the airfield when being bombed and strafed by the Messerschmitts,to being one of the actual pilots on the B-17. I can be seen exiting the aircraft on the hardstand and walking towards the camera.Another scene of me is in the briefing room where we are being introduced to the 'English' way of life & speaking.I can be seen in the 3rd row back in full flying gear(sheepskin flying jacket and trousers)chewing gum.The room was made to 'Look cold' but being under the lights for hours filming and in all that gear it was rather hot.When not filming i had the chance to talk to some of the main actors and have a look at the Messerschmitts parked up in the old hangers.I also had the privileged of having a chat to the Late Mark Hanna ( one of the Messerschmidt pilots). How i got to be an 'extra' in this was because i was working for the USAF at RAF Alconbury in the 10th Trans, Yup i think i was the only British person from there to take part in this very funny TV film.