The Rat Patrol; A Desert-Based War Drama Starring Christopher George and Company!

For those seeking a glimpse into the gritty realities of World War II, but crave a setting beyond the familiar European battlefields, “The Rat Patrol” offers a unique and captivating experience. Premiering in 1966 and running for two seasons, this British-American television series transports viewers to the desolate landscapes of North Africa, where a band of Allied soldiers undertake daring missions behind enemy lines.

While the title might conjure images of rodents scurrying through sewers, “The Rat Patrol” is anything but verminous. Instead, it refers to a small but tenacious unit of commandos led by the resolute Sergeant Sam Troy, portrayed with steely determination by Christopher George. Troy’s squad, comprised of a British lieutenant (played by Nigel Green), a French sergeant (played by Volkoff’s real-life brother, Hans Gudegast), and an American soldier who acts as the team’s mechanic (played by the always reliable Brandon de Wilde), utilizes their combined skills in guerilla warfare to disrupt Axis operations and aid in the Allied war effort.

The series masterfully blends action, adventure, and camaraderie against a backdrop of vast desert landscapes. Each episode typically focuses on a specific mission, ranging from sabotaging enemy supply lines and rescuing prisoners of war to gathering intelligence and infiltrating Nazi strongholds. The missions themselves are often complex and fraught with peril, requiring the Rat Patrol to rely on their ingenuity, resourcefulness, and unwavering courage to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

But “The Rat Patrol” is not merely a series of explosive action sequences; it delves deeper into the human drama unfolding within this tight-knit unit. The diverse backgrounds and personalities of the soldiers create a dynamic interplay that highlights both the strengths and weaknesses inherent in teamwork. Troy, for instance, emerges as a natural leader, exhibiting a cool head under pressure and unwavering loyalty to his men.

Lieutenant Mark Hitchcock (Nigel Green) often serves as a foil to Troy’s pragmatism, bringing a more analytical approach to their missions. Sergeant Louis Mercier (Hans Gudegast), despite his gruff exterior, possesses a dry wit and a surprising capacity for compassion. And then there is Corporal “Hitch” Hitchens (Brandon de Wilde), the young American mechanic whose youthful enthusiasm often clashes with the realities of war but who nevertheless proves himself to be an invaluable asset to the team.

The series also explores themes of morality and sacrifice within the context of armed conflict. The Rat Patrol frequently encounters situations where they must make difficult choices, weighing the potential for victory against the cost of human life. These dilemmas are rarely resolved with easy answers, reflecting the complex and often ambiguous nature of war itself.

Here’s a closer look at some recurring elements that contributed to “The Rat Patrol”’s enduring appeal:

• Fast-paced Action: Each episode delivered an adrenaline rush with intense battle sequences, daring escapes, and resourceful tactics employed by the protagonists.
• Innovative Use of Vehicles: The series featured a customized half-track vehicle, affectionately dubbed the “Jenny,” which became an iconic symbol of the Rat Patrol’s ingenuity and mobility.
• Authentic Period Setting: Filming primarily took place in the deserts of Southern California and Nevada, effectively capturing the harsh and unforgiving environment of North Africa during World War II.

The Legacy of “The Rat Patrol”

While “The Rat Patrol” might not be as widely recognized today as some other classic television series from the 1960s, it nevertheless retains a dedicated following among those who appreciate its blend of action, adventure, and character development. Its influence can be seen in subsequent war-themed television shows and films that adopted similar themes of guerilla warfare and camaraderie against adversity.

Moreover, “The Rat Patrol” serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by soldiers during World War II, even those who operated behind enemy lines and whose exploits often went unnoticed. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to transport us to different times and places, allowing us to experience history through the eyes of those who lived it.