It is indeed a little strange when I reflect on it that in later life and when on duty in my role as a Deputy to the Lord- Lieutenant I now wear an Army officer’s uniform and sport a sword and spurs.
Strange, because as a young man I did not join the Military. I came perilously close on leaving King Edwards VI Camp Hill to signing up for a Short Service commission with the Royal Green Jackets but finally gave up that prospect for the thrill and excitement of becoming a Chartered Accountant!
Any soldiers likely to be under my command and indeed the whole Country were probably far safer without me in charge of a map or worse still, a gun.
I have always had however a keen interest in Military history but it was the fact that my wife Sandra’s great uncle, Arthur Vickers won a Victoria Cross in 1915 and that he served with the Royal Warwickshire Regiment that prompted me to undertake this project.
It has without doubt been a most interesting experience learning more about some very brave men but all of whom were in many respects people with very ordinary and normal backgrounds.
Not having been in a combat situation but trying to imagine the pressure and emotions my respect for anyone in those circumstances is truly unbounded.
When the situation demanded it however the ten servicemen we deal with here all went that extra mile to do more than their duty normally expected of them and supported their comrades in an extraordinarily brave way.
It is that which marks them out as a rare and very special breed.
I hope you enjoy reading the book and this associated website.
This is not a commercial venture so if you have enjoyed it and found it of interest readers might feel minded to make a small charitable donation to The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (Royal Warwickshire) Museum.
Thank you.
Richard Boot
