Ordeal by Ice
Synopsis
Temperatures reached -50°F (-45°C) as British Army mountain commandos trained in the Canadian Rockies during the winters of 1944 and 1945.
Synopsis
Canadian soldiers trudged through deep snow in the Columbia Ice Fields during the winters of 1944 and 1945. They were part of a British Army mountain commando unit training for winter warfare. In temperatures as low as -50°F (-45°C), they tested snowmobiles and other equipment designed for extreme conditions. The training emphasized teamwork and ingenuity as soldiers navigated treacherous ice walls and learned essential survival skills. Communication improved with radios, allowing for quicker rescue efforts in emergencies.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See how men tackled extreme winter conditions in Canada.
- Find out the capabilities of the Canadian snowmobile.
- Meet the soldiers who transformed into skilled climbers.
Did You Know
- In 1944, thousands of men set out to invade a region in Canada during winter.
- The new Canadian snowmobile could travel 100 miles a day.
- Pack horses became useless in more than 3 feet of snow.
- Men trained to survive in 25 feet of snow with only a 50 lb pack.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What years did the wartime experiment in Canada take place?
The wartime experiment took place in the winters of 1944 and 1945.
What was the purpose of the bulldozer in the Canadian winter experiment?
The bulldozer was essential for establishing basic supply lines and creating roadways through dense wilderness.
What was the range of the new Canadian snowmobile mentioned in the documentary?
The new Canadian snowmobile had a range of 100 miles a day.
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