Correct Medals

Thanks to Bruce Kilshaw I now have the proper ribbons for the DCM and MC. These were changed and the ones I had before were the new ones.

New book on the poetry of the Falklands War

Sometime ago I noticed that SAMA82 had been contacted by David Roberts, an author, who was looking for poetry related to the Falklands War. We exchanged a few emails and I am happy to announce that the Ode To Tumbledown will be included.

You can find details about his new here

Good luck with the book David

BSH RODGER

Commander in Cheif Fleets Commendation

S J WILLIAMSON

Commander in Cheif Fleets Commendation

E LAWRIE

Commander in Cheif Fleets Commendation

GRAHAM RENNIE - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault, Lance Corporal RENNIEs platoon came under a hail of accurate fire from an enemy machine gun. His Platoon commander was seriously wounded in the head. Unhestitatingly, Lance Corporal RENNIE crawled forward, under continuing intense enemy machine gun fire, to rescue his platoon commander.

His decisive action, courage and disregard for his own safety undoubtedly saved his officers life. Lance Corporal RENNIE is strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

GARY TYTLER - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

For over three hours, Lance Corporal TYTLERs Platoon were pinned down by intense enemy artillery and small arms fire. Realising that firm action was needed, he led his section in a determined assault, personally killing several enemy in their trenches as his section overran the enemys position. His resolute leadership and courageous action enabled initiative for the attack to be regained.

Lance Corporal TYTLER is very strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

DUNCAN MACCOLL - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault, leading elements came under intense fire from enemy snipers. A number of casualties were incurred. Disregarding his own safety, Lance Corporal MACCOLL went forward to administer first aid. As he was recovering a wounded colleague, along the way he took three enemy as prisoners. Again to the fore, continuing under heavy enemy artillery fire, he returned to recover other wounded men.

For his courage under fire, and his unselfish regard for his comrades, he is strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

GARY BROWN - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault Guardsman BROWNs Section became involved in a fierce fire fight. Disregarding his own safety, with considerable coolness he exposed himself to enemy fire abd using his machine gun with devastating effect killed several of the enemy. Inspired by his example, his Section fought their way through the enemys position.

For his fine example and bravery in action, Guardsman BROWN is strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

STEVEN WILLIAM DUFFY - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault Piper DUFFYs section came under heavy enemy machine gun fire. Two of his comrades were killed instantly. Without hesitation and disregarding his own safety, he crawled forward to take their machine gun and continue firing. While doing so, he received a wound to the head from an enemy grenade. His gallant action enabled the remainder of his section to withdraw to cover.

For his courage and resource under fire he is strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches

PETER ALEXANDER MACINNESS - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

Throughout the assault, Piper MACINNESS acted as medical orderly. Despite heavy mortar and artillery fire, he unhesitatingly and without regard for his own safety went repeatedly into the front line to render first aid to his inured. His conduct was an inspiring example to all around him.

For his bravery and unselfish regard for his colleagues, Piper MACINNES is recommended for Mention in Despatches.

THE HONOURABLE RICHARD NICHOLAS BETHEL - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault, Major BETHEL and his Company carried out a diversionary attack; a number of casualties were sustained. To maintain the momentum of the advance, Major BETHEL went forward, throwing grenades as he went and destroyed the enemy in two well entrenched positions.

Later in the battle, whilst giving covering fire to his men, he was wounded by shrapnel. Ignoring his wounds, he continued to marshal his Force in an orderly withdrawal.

For his courageous action and outstanding leadership under fire, Major BETHEL is very strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

IAN DAVIDSON - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault, Lance Sergeant DAVIDSONs Section became pinned down by accurate enemy sniper fire. Showing a total disregard for his own safety, Lance Sergeant DAVIDSON moved amongst his men encouraging and steadying them. Inspired by his courageous example, they fought their way forward and destroyed two enemy positions.

For his courage under fire and selfless leadership, Lance Sergeant DAVIDSON is strongly recommended for mention in Despatches

CLARK MITCHELL - MID (Postumous)

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley. Lance Sergeant MITCHELL and his section were amongst the leading elements.

During the assault he personally located and killed several enemy snipers. Thereafter, as he led his section against an entrenched position, he accounted for several enemy with his rifle and grenades. A short while later, again to the fore in the assault, he was killed.

For his courageous actions under fire and inspiring leadership, Lance Sergeant MITCHELL, is strongly recommended for Postumous Mention in Despatches.

ALAN CHARLES EWING DALGLEISH - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the West of Port Stanley

During the assault, whilst closing on a strongly held enemy Platoon position, Lance Sergeant DALGLEISH's section came under heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire. Disregarding the dangers and despite being heavily outnumbered he rallied his section in the attack and overran the enemy's position. Their brave action contributed significantly to the successful outcome of the battle.

For his fine leadership and courage under fire, Lance Sergeant DALGLEISH is strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

JAMES DOUGLAS STUART - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the west of port Stanley

During the assault Second Lieutenant STUART and his Platoon were in the front line of the attack. Suddenly, at close quarters, the enemy opened fire. His Platoon Sergeant was killed instantly and several men were wounded. Undeterred by his losses, he exhorted his Platoon to follow his example in pressing home the attack. Subsequently, he and his Platoon were again to the fore in the successful assault by his company on their main objective.

Second Lieutenant STUART demonstrated considerable qualities of character, leadership and courage under fire. He is strongly recommended for Mention in Despatches.

IAN ANDERSON BRYDEN - MID

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of East Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the west of port Stanley

Captain BRYDEN was at the front of his company, closing rapidly with the enemy's position. Suddenly he was confronted by three enemy. Reacting immediately and decisively, he shot and killed two of them and overcame the third in hand to hand fighting. Shortly afterwards, his company successfully secured its objective.

Captain BRYDEN's personal courage was an example to all; he is strongly mentioned for Mention in Despatches.

ANDREW SAMUEL PENGELLY - MM

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the west of port Stanley

During the assault, leading elements came under fire from a sniper hidden high up in nearby rocky crags. Guardsman PENGELLY reacted immediately: abondoning his machine gun and armed with grenades, he climbed up the wet and slippery tocks toward the enemy position. Reaching the top, he hurled a grenade and killed the sniper. As he threw the grenade he was hit and badly wounded by enemy mortar fire. His courageous action was a significant individual contribution of a high order, to the success of the battle.

For his outstanding courage under fire and in the face of the enemy, Guardsman PENGELLY is very strongly recommended for the award of a Military Medal

ROBERT WHITE JACKSON - MM

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the west of port Stanley

During the assault, leading elements came under intense enemy machine gun fire which was preventing any further advance. Sergeant JACKSON reacted instantly: discarding his rifle and armed only with grenades, he clambered forward under fire over wet and slippery rocks towards the foot of the enemy's position forty meters away. having climbed fully fifteen meters up into the rocky crags, single handed, he attacked and destroyed the enemy's position with his grenades.

For his outstandingly courageous action under fire in the face of the enemy, Sergeant JACKSON is strongly recommended for the award of a Military Medal.

ROBERT ALISTAIR LAWRENCE - MC

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of east Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy position on the craggy ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the west of port Stanley. Lieutenant LAWRENCE and his platoon were amongst leading elements in the assault.

As they come up to an area of prominent rocky crags they came under intense fire from an enemy machine gun position. Lieutenant LAWRENCE, to the fore throughout, immediately led a counter attack. Throwing grenades onto the enemy's position as he went, in the heat of the fire fight he continued to exhort his platoon to follow him in the assault. In capturing the position their attack accounted for two enemy.

Firm on that position, he gathered up a handful of his men and began to work his way along the ridge to engage an enemy sniper. As they closed and just before he could attack, Lieutenant LAWRENCE was severely wounded.

His actions were an outstanding example of leadership under fire and courage in the face of the enemy. For his resolute devotion to duty, Lieutenant LAWRENCE is very strongly recommended for the award of a Military Cross.

JOHN PANTON KISZELY - MC

On the night of 13/14 June 1982, on the Island of East Falkland, the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards attacked well entrenched enemy positions on the cracky ridge feature of Tumbledown Mountain, seven kilometers to the west of Port Stanley. Major KISZELY was commanding the Leading Company as they neared the last phase of the assault.

Despite heavy artillery fire from our own guns, the enemy continued to fight back. Major KISZELY immediately appreciated that direct action was essential to maintain the momentum of the attack. Under fire and with a complete disregard for his own safety, he led a group of his men up a gully towards the enemy. Despite men falling wounded beside him he continued his charge, throwing grenades as he went. Arriving on the enemy position, he killed two enemy with his rifle and a third with his bayonet. His courageous action forced the surrender of the remainder. His was the culminating action in the Battalion successfully seizing its objective.

Major KISZELY, by his outstanding leadership and heroic example was an inspiration to his men. His bravery and courage under fire were of an exceptionally high order. He is strongly recommended for the award of a Military Cross.

MICHEAL IAN ELDON SCOTT - DSO

Lieutenant Colonel Scott was in command of 2nd Battalion Scots Guards when they captured Tumbledown Mountain on East Falklands by a battalion night attack on 13 June 1982. This was part of the 5 Brigade plan to secure the last vital ground on the approach to Port Stanley.

Tumbledown Mountain was known to be held by the enemy in considerable strength. It was equally certain that this enemy had been alerted to the likelihood of a renewed British offensive at that time because of the nature and timing of operations two nights previously.

Lieutenat Colonel Scott had planned his attack with meticulous care. The battalion took their first objective without opposition.

As they moved towards their second objective the Scots Guards were bet by a heavy concentration of artillery, mortar and machine gun fire. Well positioned enemy snipers dominated the difficult, rising ground over which the Guards had to advance, and harrassed exposed movement. The nature of the ground on the flanks and the weight of enemy fire upon it made manoeuvre impossible. A battle of attrition developed and the success of the Brigade plan hung in the balance. This phase lasted for six hours. Throughout, although constantly under artillery fire himself, Lieutenant Colonel Scott led his battalion in an outstanding manner. He personally directed and encouraged the leading Company Commander and his exaample and coolness inspired and steadied all around him. He caused artillery fire to be brought down with surgical precission close to his forward troops so that they were eventually able to close with the enemy and defeat them. it was due to Lieutenant Colonel Scott's personal determination and leadership that the Scots Guards were able to achieve a break through at this vital point and so capture their main objective.

In this their first action during the Falklands campaign, the Battalion distinguished itself by winning a battle lasting nine hours overall under the most adverse conditions. The outcome of this engagement was instrumental in breaking the enemy's will to fight and their final surrender was achieved within a matter of hours.

The conduct of the Scots Guards during this protracted and exhausting night engagement was exemplary and much of the credit rests with their Commanding Officer. he is strongly recommended for the award of the DSO.

New photo of me in the falklands

Once again a huge thanks to Lee Willacy who has found another picture of me in the Falklands.

This one was taken outside the main entrance to the refrigeration plant at Ajax Bay. It was probably taken after the prisoners had left so is sometime in July.