True story behind John Tonkin's daring escape from German capture in SAS Rogue Heroes

SAS Rogue Heroes has returned to BBC One, featuring a gripping episode where Lt John Tonkin (portrayed by Jack Barton) is captured during the battle in Termoli. Hitler had issued a Commando Order, dictating that any captured commando should be executed.

The episode depicts Tonkin being led to a firing squad, only to be rescued at the last moment by a compassionate German officer. While this scene was dramatised for effect, many aspects of Tonkin's escape are based on true events.

Tonkin was taken prisoner when his unit found themselves surrounded by the German army. However, German officer General Heidrich invited him to dinner to discuss the exceptional work of the SAS.

Heidrich, a veteran of World War I and former parachutist, enjoyed conversing with captured paratroopers. In the series, Heidrich informs Tonkin about the Commando Order and warns him of his impending fate.

In reality, it was a German major who warned Tonkin after he was escorted back to his cell following the dinner. The major informed Tonkin that he would be handed over to the special police, reports the Mirror.

Tonkin was ominously told: "From now on the German army cannot guarantee your life."

While the series portrays Tonkin overpowering three Germans in an attempt to escape, the real-life Tonkin's escape was far less dramatic.

He managed to slip away from a jeep and spent two weeks wandering before encountering a British patrol and reuniting with the newly named SRS.

Cambridge University's website offers a poignant Obituaries section, which provides a fascinating account of Tonkin's wartime experiences.

The site recounts: "He landed with his squadron at Termoli on the Italian mainland and was captured."

Detailing the night of his capture, it