Field Marshal Slim described as 'so very special' by Second World War veteran of Burma Campaign
Known affectionately as Uncle Bill, Field Marshal William Slim is often regarded as one of Britain's greatest military leaders.
His skilful mastery of warfare, coupled with his care for his soldiers and bold decision-making, was pivotal in bringing about the end of the Second World War in Japan.
When General Slim took command of the British and Commonwealth forces in Burma in 1942, the situation was dire – his forces were in a desperate state, so FM Slim took decisive action.
New tactics
He renamed the unit the 14th Army and not only altered their tactics but transformed their entire mindset, and under his leadership, the army began to achieve victories against the Japanese forces.
Speaking with BFBS Forces News, defence analyst Professor Michael Clarke explained how FM Slim focused on instilling two critical beliefs within his troops: "One is the Japanese are not invincible in the jungle, they can be beaten.
"And the second thing is that the jungle is neutral to you."
In his 1956 memoir, Defeat Into Victory, FM Slim expressed his deep respect for the soldiers he led, saying: "I shall always be proud to have served with them.
"Victory in Burma came not from the work of any one man, or even of a few men, but from the sum of many men's efforts."
The man who has been dubbed the "soldier's soldier" and as having "the head of a general with the heart of a private soldier", spoke frankly with the soldiers he served with.
He admired their "fierce pride in overcoming [difficulties] by determination and ingenuity".
Admired by his men
George Durrant, a Second World War veteran of the Burma Campaign, shared his admiration for Slim, saying: "Oh, General Slim, he was marvellous.
"He was so particular and so very special.
"I don't know how else to explain it, but he was really wonderful at his job."
Prof Clarke elaborated on Slim's leadership style, saying: "There's lots of examples where he would just turn up and he just talked to them.
"They said he didn't jump on ammunition boxes, and he didn't do any barrack room slang.
"He spoke to them with the vision of their commander, but the honesty of their platoon sergeant."
Care and compassion
FM Slim's care for his soldiers extended beyond strategy.
His grandson, Viscount Slim, recounted his grandfather's compassionate decision to move hospitals closer to the frontlines, saying: "Instead of the agony of being wounded and having to travel nearly 900 miles back to Delhi, you actually travelled 30 miles to a hospital.
"That was much more bearable than a long journey over bumpy roads."
Field Marshal Viscount Slim's unwavering dedication, innovative tactics and genuine connection with his troops are what truly set him apart as one of Britain's most remarkable military figures.
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