40 years since the end of Falklands War marked with veteran portraits

The special pictures of those who served in the war have been released as Scotland marks 40 years since the ceasefire.

Author: Callum McQuadePublished 14th Jun 2022

A collection of portraits has been released as Scotland marks 40 years since the end of the Falklands War.

Seven veterans from across the country have been snapped as part of the virtual exhibition commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of Britain's armed forces.

One of those (pictured below) is David Cruickshanks from Fife who, at the age of 17, was the youngest Scot to serve with the Royal Navy.

READ MORE: Falklands War: Veteran remembers praying for his life on HMS Fearless

The pictures were captured by award winning photographer Wattie Cheung on a 1940s Graflex Super D large format film camera.

He told Forth 1: "Many of these veterans don't see themselves as heroes and just think they are doing the job they have been paid to do.

"It is always a humbling experience to speak to these people as well because they have so many stories to tell and they have been in situations that the majority of us could not imagine.

"Getting an insight into their lives and careers was truly remarkable."

Mr Cheung worked with charities Poppy Scotland and Legion Scotland for the exhibition.







Claire Armstrong, chief executive of Legion Scotland, said: "Today will be a poignant day for thousands of veterans, servicemen, women, and their families, as we mark the anniversary of the ceasefire.

"Although the conflict lasted for just 74 days, it had a profound impact, with many veterans struggling with the physical and mental scars for decades afterwards."

The war began on April 2 1982 when Argentina invaded the British overseas territory. On June 14 of the same year, as British forces approached its capital Stanley, Argentina surrendered.

In total, 255 British servicemen, 649 Argentinian military personnel, and three civilians died, while many more were wounded.

READ MORE: Falklands 40 - Major General Alastair Bruce reflects on conflict 40 years on

On Saturday, a national remembrance parade and service will be held in Edinburgh, where hundreds of current and former servicemen and women are expected to take part.

From 10am, veterans and a military band will march from Charlotte Square along George Street, before a service of remembrance and wreath-laying in St Andrew Square.

Pipers from around the world will play the Crags of Tumbledown Mountain at 11am in memory of the fallen.

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