Falklands veteran recalls intense assault to retake Goose Green

Shortly after British land forces disembarked on the Falklands in late May 1982, they launched their campaign to retake the islands.

2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment were ordered to assault Goose Green, a settlement held by enemy troops.

We spoke with veteran Mike Kelly in 2022 to mark 40 years since the Falklands War. He served as the signaller for the battalion's second-in-command and remembers this key first battle.

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Although 2 PARA succeeded in their objective, their commanding officer was killed. The battalion later took Wireless Ridge on the final night of the war.

Speaking about the rescue of local people, Mr Kelly said: "I was very pleased to be able to tell the villagers that they were free because I related to every one of them – they were the same age as me, some of them, they've got children the same as I've got.

"They didn't ask to be there, in that situation."

If you have been affected by any of the subjects in this interview, advice is available at forcesnews.com/audiencesupport

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