The One That Got Away

The One That Got Away is a 2005 British television drama film based on the true story of the 1991 Operation Desert Storm and the ill-fated SAS patrol Bravo Two Zero. The film tells the gripping tale of the brave men who went behind enemy lines to conduct a mission that would change the course of history. The story begins in January 1991, as the Gulf War looms large. The coalition forces, led by the United States, are poised to launch a massive assault on Iraqi forces. However, the situation becomes critical when Saddam Hussein's regime launches a Scud missile attack on Israel. This not only puts Israel's safety at risk but also threatens to break up the alliance between the Western powers and Israel, which is a key member of the coalition. To prevent a potentially disastrous outcome, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher orders the SAS to launch a secret mission to destroy the Scud launch sites in Iraq. Under the command of Sergeant Andy McNab, a seasoned SAS veteran, is a 19-man patrol known as Bravo Two Zero. They are tasked with infiltrating deep behind enemy lines, gathering intelligence on the Scud sites, and destroying them before they can be used against Israel. The patrol sets out in the early hours of January 22, 1991, with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The team consists of highly trained soldiers, each with their unique skills and strengths. There is also a sense of brotherhood among them, forged through their intense training and shared experiences. As Bravo Two Zero makes its way deeper into Iraqi territory, the team faces numerous challenges, including navigating through treacherous terrain, avoiding Iraqi patrols, and coping with the harsh environmental conditions. Despite the obstacles, they press on, driven by their determination to complete their mission and protect their country. However, the patrol's progress is soon detected by the Iraqis, and they launch a concerted effort to catch the SAS soldiers. The situation becomes increasingly desperate as Bravo Two Zero becomes surrounded by Iraqi forces. In the ensuing battle, three of the team members – Guardsman Vince Phillips, Guardsman Chris Ryan, and Lieutenant John 'Jon' Nichol is mistakenly believed to be killed, however Nichol is later recovered safely - are killed, while four others are captured by the Iraqis. With their comrades either dead or in captivity, Corporal Chris Ryan becomes the sole survivor of Bravo Two Zero. He finds himself stranded in enemy territory, with no radio contact with his fellow soldiers. Despite being injured and facing near-impossible odds, Ryan refuses to give up. He begins to make his way back to safety, using his skills and cunning to evade capture. Meanwhile, back at Brunei, Andy McNab, who is also injured, begins to piece together the events that occurred in Iraq. He realizes that Chris Ryan is the only one left, and he is determined to get him back home safely. With the help of his team, McNab sets out to rescue Ryan, but they are faced with the daunting task of infiltrating deep into Iraqi territory, despite the coalition's air superiority. As the story unfolds, the film sheds light on the bravery and sacrifice of the SAS soldiers who risked their lives to complete their mission. The events of Bravo Two Zero are portrayed with stunning authenticity, drawing heavily from the real-life experiences of the soldiers involved. The One That Got Away is a gripping account of a pivotal moment in history, highlighting the risks and challenges faced by the soldiers who fought behind enemy lines. The film is a testament to the courage and resilience of the people involved, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women in the armed forces.