Centenarian John Eskdale, a World War Two commando, recently visited the Commando Training Centre in Devon, where he shared his wisdom with the next generation of Royal Marines. Eskdale, who earned his Green Beret in 1942, attended the pass out parade of 366 Troop in Lympstone. Recruit Sean Brennen described him as an “unbelievable gentleman” and found him to be incredibly inspiring.
During World War Two, Eskdale saw combat with HMS Charybdis on the Malta Convoys in 1942 and was part of the invasion of Sicily in 1943. Despite surviving the sinking of Charybdis, he went on to see further action in Normandy and the Far East. He shared valuable advice with the recruits, emphasizing the sense of family within the Royal Marines and the enduring bond formed through service.
As part of his visit, Eskdale presented the Commando Medal to James Barback for his exemplary qualities of unselfishness, cheerfulness under adversity, courage, and determination throughout his training. Recruit Sean Brennen highlighted the importance of listening to first-hand accounts from veterans like Eskdale, noting that their stories and experiences serve as a vital link to the past and inspire the current generation of soldiers.
Reflecting on his own experiences during the war, Eskdale recounted the harrowing moments of being torpedoed off the Channel Islands in late 1943. Despite spending five hours in the water before being rescued, Eskdale remained committed to serving his country, volunteering for hazardous missions. His journey took him from the Normandy beaches to the Far East, participating in key operations and peacekeeping efforts. Through his enduring spirit and dedication, Eskdale continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
