Ian Hammerton joined the Royal Tank Regiment in 1939, and started out as a trooper before advancing to officer after training at Sandhurst. Skilled in operating Sherman flail tanks for mine-clearing, his regiment developed innovative tactics, including a system to clean tank periscopes, which inspired modern windscreen washers. Ian played a crucial role in the D-Day invasion, enduring rigorous preparations and the chaos of landing under fire. His primary task was to clear beach obstacles, despite seasickness and witnessing heavy casualties. After D-Day, Ian's regiment continued through Normandy, participating in key operations like Operation Goodwood and the advance towards Falaise. He recounts the challenges of night attacks, close encounters with the enemy, and significant losses on both sides. Ian's vivid memories include the tragic loss of comrades, encounters with wounded enemy soldiers, and accidental bombings by Allied forces. His story reflects the resilience and dedication required to navigate the brutal realities of World War II combat.

Major Freddie Hunn's extensive account offers a profound insight into his remarkable military service. Driven by limited job opportunities and influenced by stories from his friends, Freddie was inspired to enlist in the 12th Royal Lancers, an armoured car regiment, in 1937. Over the course of the Second World War, he served at the forefront of some of its most pivotal campaigns, from the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in France to the unforgiving deserts of North Africa. When war broke out, Freddie was deployed to France with the BEF. What began as a period of relative inactivity during the harsh winter of 1939-40 quickly turned to chaos as the German Blitzkrieg unfolded. Freddie and his regiment endured a continual retreat to the coast, witnessing the devastation of strafing Stuka attacks and aiding in the evacuation of thousands at De Panne. Freddie’s journey continued with a convoy voyage across the Atlantic to North Africa, where he became a "Desert Rat." There, he faced daily threats from shells, relentless Stuka bombings, and gruelling conditions: in particular the limited water supply. He witnessed firsthand the toll of war, as many comrades succumbed to the debilitating effects of shell shock amidst relentless bombardments. Among his extraordinary experiences were leading a daring attack on a German convoy near Benghazi and navigating a minefield in Tunisia. From the chaos of Dunkirk to the pivotal Battle of El Alamein and countless close calls, Freddie’s service was marked by extraordinary bravery and incredible luck. His reflections not only shed light on the realities of war but also pay tribute to the courage, sacrifices, and profound cost borne by those who served.