Following completion of an apprenticeship, Peter signed on as a regular in the Army for three years in 1951, because it meant he could choose where he wanted to serve. After training, he served in the Royal Army Service Corps as a driver. He tells of a posting to HQ Southern Command and from there being sent to Korea. Like many others, he explains that he hadn’t heard of Korea before this. Embarking at Southampton on the Empire Fowey, he and his compatriots travelled first to Japan. He recounts the journey from Japan to Korea, travelling through Hiroshima and seeing the crater, following which he was parachuted into Seoul. He was posted to the 26th Field Ambulance Division and drove both ambulances and transport. He tells of the poor conditions of the roads and the impact of the weather on their work, including that their trucks would freeze during the winter if not looked after properly. At the end of the Korean War, Peter tells of his brief foray into athletics, running for the battalion. He was then posted to Hong Kong. He expresses frustration at the lack of attention given to the Korean war in comparison to other wars.

Bernard Lynham joined the 46 Commando, Royal Marines, just before turning 18, inspired by his brother’s long service in the Marines. He quickly adapted to the gruelling training, enduring speed marches, cliff climbing, and parachute jumps in Scotland while always carrying his full kit. This demanding preparation forged a deep sense of camaraderie among the men, who often pooled their money for nights out, creating bonds that would be tested in the battles ahead. Deployed to Normandy shortly after D-Day, Bernard faced the harsh realities of war as he and his comrades embarked on dangerous night patrols, scouting for German positions. It was during one of these missions that a seemingly minor moment would become a pivotal point in Bernard’s life. As he paused to adjust his bootlace, an event occurred that would change everything, leaving him with injuries that ultimately ended his active service. Though he escaped death that day, the experience left him with wounds that would trouble him for years to come. Despite the trauma, Bernard speaks with pride about his time in the Royal Marines, remembering the loyalty, bravery, and unbreakable spirit of his fellow Commandos. After the war, Bernard resumed civilian life, working for the electricity board for 35 years, but his memories of Normandy and the comrades he lost have never faded. Interviewed when he was in his 90s, Bernard’s story is a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage of those who served, offering a glimpse into the life of a true wartime hero.