Wholesale Dad’s Army Goes to War

For decades, the classic BBC comedy Dad's Army has entertained millions. The farcical antics of Walmington-on-Sea’s bumbling Home Guard platoon camouflage the true military service of many cast members. Despite their light-hearted roles, several actors served in one or both world wars. Writer Jimmy Perry, a 16-year-old wannabe comedian, joined the Home Guard in 1940, inspired by his experiences. Clive Dunn, who played Lance Corporal Jones, was a former POW and based partly on an old soldier Perry knew. David Croft, a British Army officer, was stationed in North Africa, shaping the calamities of Dad’s Army. Arthur Lowe, Captain Mainwaring, and John Le Mesurier, with the Royal Tank Regiment, also served. Arnold Ridley, who created Private Godfrey, and John Laurie, Private Frazer, were war heroes. Their experiences helped turn Dad’s Army into an everlasting success, showing that laughter triumphs over war.