Hidden truth of Suez campaign
I'VE written a book: 'Suez: The Hidden Truths' which details those turbulent years of the early 1950s in the Suez Canal Zone of Egypt, where thousands of mostly National Servicemen were posted to defend a 'strip of water' against a hostile and barbaric foe in absolutely appalling conditions.
Moreover, although there were many loads killed who were only in their teens, we were denied a medal, for some inexplicable reason, which I have tried to address.
However, due to a small band of dedicated Suez activists, this miscarriage of justice has been righted - after many years of campaigning against a contentious Whitehall and overwhelming odds.
Many Suez veterans - all in their 70s - are delighted with the award of this belated medal, but it really is a travesty that it wasn't issued at the time and, in particular, for those lads who lost their lives and are buried in the sand at British military cemeteries in Egypt, and other veterans who have passed on over the years since.
Indeed, this forgotten part of our history must be revived and kept alive for future generations. While other conflicts have been given due coverage - and rightly so - the Suez Canal Zone Emergency has been ignored.
Suez: The Hidden Truths, has attracted many good reviews, which includes one from the Imperial War Museum. This documentary on Suez is ideal for those interested in the history of British involvement in the canal zone during the troubles of 1951/54, where young conscripts had to endure deprivation and danger in a conflict which has been neglected for too long.
Furthermore, Britain has traditionally treated its soldiers very badly and one is reminded of the lines of Rudyard Kipling:
It's Tommy this and Tommy that
And kick him out the bruete
But it's saviour of his country
When the guns begin to shoot.
This book (revised edition) is available from me at the above address or phone. It costs 6 including P&P. Nostalgia abounds!
What do you think? Add your comments below.
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Wednesday 23 May 2012
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