By Isle of Wight Observer
A member of the IW Parachute Regimental Association returned to the Falkland Islands last week for the first time since 1982, alongside fellow Falklands War veterans.
Among the places Bob visited was Goose Green, a place forever etched into the history of The Parachute Regiment, and where Lieutenant Colonel Herbert ‘H’ Jones VC OBE, Commanding Officer of 2 PARA, was killed in action on May 28, 1982.
During the Battle of Darwin and Goose Green, 2 PARA’s advance had been held up by strongly defended Argentine positions and was taking casualties. Realising that the momentum of the attack was in danger of being lost, H Jones moved to the very front.
With extraordinary courage and complete disregard for his own safety, he led a charge towards the enemy positions. He was hit, got back to his feet and continued forward before being fatally wounded just yards from the position he was attacking.
His bravery inspired those around him and helped restore the momentum of the battle. Goose Green and Darwin were subsequently liberated, with around 1,200 Argentine troops surrendering.
For his actions that day, Lieutenant Colonel H Jones was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, Britain’s highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy.
For Bob and the other veterans standing once again at Goose Green more than four decades later must carry memories and emotions that few can truly imagine.
Mal Butler