Falklands 40: Major General Alastair Bruce reflects on conflict 40 years on
We're sitting down with the soldier and broadcaster for an exclusive interview.
Last updated 29th May 2022
One of Scotland's top soldiers is claiming Britain's victory in the Falklands War is why we continue to enjoy our freedoms today.
The battle started in April 1982 when Argentine forces landed on the island and would last for ten weeks.
A total of 255 British military personnel were killed as well as 3 civillians.
Major General Alastair Bruce, Governor of Edinburgh Castle, was just 21 when he was sent there.
Sitting down with Downtown Radio for an exclusive interview he said: "If I am being perfectly honest I thought the Falkland Islands were somewhere near Linlithgow - I had no idea they were so far away."
The Sky News commentator claims he learned lots of useful disciplines during his time serving in the war which have equipped him for adult life.
However, he and his fellow soldiers in The Scots Guard often relied on humour to make it through difficult moments.
He added: "You can have the most exciting career in the world, but if you haven't been to battle with your contemporaries then you have not lived to the edge of human experience.
"When you are faced with your own mortality in this way then humour can often be the only way to deal with it.
"Our jokes were rugged, direct and hugely full of teasing.
"We often picked on each other's weaknesses and I had a long nose which got targeted a lot.
"I think a had a voice that they all thought was quite funny which they mimicked like mad."
Next month will mark the 40th anniversary of the end of the fighting and pipers across the UK are being asked to stand on their doorsteps to remember those who were killed.
However, the General knows not everyone will feel obliged to mark the poignant date.
He said: "Maybe we don't need to burden young people with more stories from knackered old people like me.
"They should know that they might not always have the chance to hang out with their friends and listen to music whenever they want because the world is not like that, sometimes it isn't a peaceful place.
"I will be quietly marking 40 years since the end of the war on June 14 next month, but I know not everyone will be the same.
"They'll be doing what they want to do whether that's going shopping or buying a bar of chocolate.
"What a great testament to the fight for freedom - we should all be able not to worry about the Falkland Islands.
"Let me worry and remember and support me in this, but don't feel burdened that you have to do the same."
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