As the threat of invasion by Adolf Hitler loomed over the British nation, Prime Minister Anthony Eden’s 1940 radio broadcast appealed for volunteers to protect the domestic front. Often called “Dad’s Army,” the British Home Guard was made up of volunteers who were too young or too old for conscription during WWII. However, they were more than an assembly of well-meaning amateurs. Nearly 2M ordinary people—including George Orwell, A. A. Milne, and C. S. Lewis—stood ready to defend British towns and villages. Journalist and author Sinclair McKay will explore the incredible story of Britain’s Home Guard. He will describe the village greens that became drilling grounds for WWI veterans who balanced rifle practice, night patrols, and anti-aircraft duties. McKay will also highlight the important role played by women. While at first officially banned from the Home Guard, undeterred, a group formed the Women’s Home Defence Force in 1941. Also, McKay will talk about the 1st American Squadron, composed of US citizens living in the UK in 1940. This group stepped up to defend Britain while the US was still neutral. Drawing on archival research, McKay will offer a new perspective on the domestic spirit of resilience, ingenuity, and courage that helped sustain the nation during its darkest hours.

Sinclair McKay writes for the Daily Telegraph, the Mail on Sunday and The Spectator. He is a literary critic for the Telegraph and the Spectator. He has published extensively on Bletchley Park in his books, The Secret Life of Bletchley Park, The Secret Listeners, and Bletchley Park Brainteasers. His other books include Dresden: The Fire and the Darkness (2020); Meeting Churchill: A Life in 90 Encounters (2023); St. Petersburg: Sacrifice and Redemption in the City That Defied Hitler (2025) and Dad’s Army: The Glorious True Story of the Home Guard (2026).

The recording will be sent on November 18 by 12:00 p.m. ET and available through December 31, 2026.

Tickets: $15 Members; $25 Non-members

Or call 212-480-2889 x200