Since the end of World War II, Southeast Asia had become a battleground for Communism and anti-imperialism. During the period, the United States had a deep-rooted investment in the former French Indochina, which led to the Vietnam War. Unknown to most people, Britain also fought a counter-insurgency war in Southeast Asia during the 1960s. "Return to Limbang" is a story of extreme bravery on both sides and a truly personal insight in to a long forgotten race against time to save lives.

In December 1962 Captain Jeremy Moore led L Company, Royal Marines on a mission to rescue members of the British community in Limbang Sarawak after rebels had captured the town. The raid was highly unorthodox because Moore had no landing craft and was forced to utilize local cargo boats in a dawn raid from the river. Moore was given a simple order: “Release the hostages”. The dawn raid was a success and is one of the most significant Royal Marine actions since the end of World War II. Until now the story has never been told.

"Return to Limbang" is the first installment of a six-part series called "The Soldier's Tale" being produced by Brush Fire Films. It is the story of two men with very different cultures and from opposite sides of the globe who, forty years ago, played a deadly game of hide and seek in the Jungles of Sarawak. The programme follows ex-Royal Marine Brian Downey and the other British veterans as they return to Limbang to track down the ghosts of forty years ago and re-trace the events. Their ultimate goal is to find and talk to the former rebel soldier Salleh Sambas. Brian eventually meets Sambas in a very emotional meeting, both men being hesitant at first, but then realizing that they have a mutual respect for each other’s heroism and exchange views and stories of the battle. Time heals many wounds and these two men find they have much in common as all old soldiers do. They were not the Generals or politicians who started the wars, but they were the ones who suffered and lost friends. The story is full of rich characters, heroism and humor in spite of the terror that took place.

An American ex-Peace Corps worker also travels to Limbang. Thanie Alison’s best friend was one of the hostages held by the rebels, a staunch pacifist who was caught up in the rebellion. Thanie meets and thanks the Royal Marines for the sacrifice they made to save his friend’s life. The programme also includes interviews with other veterans, including Major General Sir Jeremy Moore who later commanded the British land forces during the Falklands War.

The programme was filmed on location in England and North Borneo in High Definition, allowing the viewer to experience the beauty of both lands far apart. "Return to Limbang" is presented by Major General Julian Thompson. In 1982 General Thompson commanded 3 Commando Brigade during the Falklands war. A noted military historian, Julian and has published such books as No Picnic: 3 Commando Brigade in the Falklands; Ready for Anything: The Parachute Regiment at War 1940-82 and many others.