It was March 2003 in Iraq, when a young British solider was killed by his allies in an incident which came to be known as one of the most infamous friendly fire incidents of recent times.
But why did it happen? And how did it change the lives of so many on the ground, including that of journalist Audrey Gillan?
In On The Ground, award-winning journalist Audrey teams up to investigate with producer Dan Maudsley – Gold winner at the British Podcast Awards for his series Paradise.
Audrey was embedded with The Household Cavalry during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. For six weeks she lived alongside 100 men, sleeping in the dirt and witnessing the brutal reality of young soldiers at war.
When the terrifying friendly fire attack occurred, she was a mile away with other soldiers, listening to mounting panic on the radio. She watched as they wept upon hearing of the loss of one of their number, as well as the serious injury of four others. How could US pilots have mistaken the British convoy for the enemy?
In this investigative podcast, Audrey and Dan carefully piece together the evidence of what happened that day, hearing from many of those involved.
Some have never spoken publicly before. Many speak with unprecedented frankness about what happened and how it affected their lives. The investigation itself leaves a powerful impression on Audrey too, as she comes to understand the impact it had on her own life.
On The Ground is available to listen on BBC Sounds.
