The Shepherd is a 2023 British drama short film written and directed by Iain Softley, and starring Ben Radcliffe and John Travolta.

On Christmas Eve 1957, Flying Officer Freddie Hook, who is stationed at RAF Celle, is downcast at being unable to visit his family owing to his leave being denied.

Seizing the opportunity, he moves to take the latter's place and proceeds to secure permission from his commanding officer to fly home overnight, despite having received his night rating only recently.

After several attempts to contact Lakenheath for a radio-guided approach fail, he plans a detour to RAF Miriam St. George, located near the coast.

Flying low on fuel, and believing a sea ditch is inevitable, Freddie reminisces past memories with his girlfriend, Lizzie, before writing a final note to her.

An ending note highlights the role of guide-pilots in saving the lives of countless fighter pilots returning from missions during the war.