MIR BAHMANYAR: THE HOUDINI CLUB
This episode of Big Blend Radio’s WAY BACK WHEN History Show features Mir Bahmanyar—acclaimed author, military historian, and TV/film producer—discussing his gripping new book, “The Houdini Club: The Epic Journey and Daring Escapes of the First Army Rangers of WWII” (April 22, 2025). Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
A former U.S. Army Ranger who served in the Second Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Mir Bahmanyar brings unmatched authenticity to the story of WWII’s elite “Darby’s Rangers.” In this exclusive interview, he shares the untold, uncensored saga of the original Army Ranger battalions—highlighting their brutal training, combat missions across North Africa, Sicily, France, and Italy, and the legendary POW escapes that earned them the nickname “The Houdini Club.”
Bahmanyar draws from firsthand interviews, personal correspondence, and newly uncovered historical sources to portray the raw courage and human drama behind one of America’s most daring military units. His military expertise, deep research, and cinematic storytelling make this episode a must-listen for history lovers, military buffs, and fans of WWII true stories.
Mir Bahmanyar holds a B.A. in History from the University of California at Berkeley and an M.A. in War Studies from King’s College London. His diverse career spans roles as a library clerk, janitor, retail merchant, German language coach, military technical advisor, and Hollywood producer and writer. He has authored numerous books and articles on subjects ranging from ancient history to modern warfare, with a special focus on the Punic Wars, WWII Darby’s Rangers, and Future War. Raised across three continents and four countries, Mir speaks three languages and currently lives in Toronto, Canada, with his wife. He is also a passionate supporter of environmental and animal rights causes. More: https://www.mirbahmanyar.com/
