Hi everyone, and thanks for letting me be part of the community here. I have a keen interest in the Second World War and am currently studying for a Military History degree as a result of my interest for most of my life. A number of members from my family served during the Second World War, my Great-Uncle being a bomb aimer in a Lancaster (he wrote of his experiences in 'The Eigth Passenger' - some of you may have read it). Another of my family members was General Horrocks, commander of XXX Corps during Operation Market Garden. So I have quite a personal link to the war. I'm here to generally observe and learn, I'm an author of historical fiction and it's a lot easier to do/read research when it's in a community such as this! Thanks again - take care!
Welcome to the Forum. The General Horrocks connection is fascinating (!): I wonder if you could help sort out a little matter relating to when he was in North Africa. Apparently he was visiting the Third Battalion Royal Tank Regiment (3RTks, 3RTR) when he spotted an old 'friend'. Horrocks asked him how things were going and the reply was along the lines of "Just the usual two thirds fighting, Sir: 3rd Royal Tanks and the Third Reich". Do you know the precise words used or at least the ones known to the family? This is a lovely little story but there are several versions out there, hence my question.
Hello and welcome to the forum. (My family and I haven't any claim to fame, but I did walk past Lionel Blair once on my way into Leeds City Station.) Oh and I have shared a coach on a Leger holiday with the famous historian Paul Reed and nearly met Prince Harry. Lesley
Wow! It's always been such a disappointment to me that I never actually met him myself! Very jealous of your Dad!