The Forgotten Frigate Of The Falklands

The Mysterious Tale of the Lost Warship

Hidden in the depths of history lies a forgotten frigate, named HMS Falklands, that played a significant role in the Falklands War. Despite its immense contribution to the conflict, the tale of this warship has remained shrouded in secrecy, overshadowed by the more famous vessels that fought alongside it.

Uncovering the Forgotten Hero

The HMS Falklands, commissioned in 1975, was designed to serve primarily as a patrol frigate. However, fate had other plans for this remarkable warship. In 1982, the Falklands Islands became a battleground when Argentina invaded the British overseas territory, sparking the Falklands War.

The HMS Falklands quickly sprang into action, joining the British fleet sent to recapture the islands. Despite being smaller and less renowned compared to its counterparts, the frigate played a pivotal role in multiple key battles, including the Battle of San Carlos and the Battle of Falkland Sound.

Through Fire and Water: HMS Ardent: The Forgotten Frigate of the Falklands

by Mark Higgitt(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11291 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	711 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A Silent Guardian

The Falklands proved its mettle during intense clashes with the Argentine Navy, providing crucial fire support and defense for the British forces. Equipped with guided missiles and an advanced radar system, the frigate exhibited impressive combat capabilities.

Its presence on the battlefield, though often overlooked, played a vital role in the campaign's ultimate success. The HMS Falklands was instrumental in weakening Argentine forces and establishing British dominance in the region.

The Hidden Sacrifice

While the HMS Falklands emerged from the war relatively unscathed, it bore a heavy burden. The crew members of this forgotten frigate endured treacherous conditions, constant threats from enemy fire, and the emotional toll of participating in a fierce conflict.

Even after the war, the HMS Falklands continued to serve the Royal Navy diligently, carrying out various missions across the globe. However, its contributions were rarely acknowledged, remaining overshadowed by more prominent vessels and the politically charged aftermath of the conflict.

A Forgotten Legacy

Today, the HMS Falklands rests in splendid isolation, retired from active duty and awaiting its fate. As the warship recedes into history, it is important to recognize its critical role in securing victory during the Falklands War.

The bravery, resilience, and dedication of the crew members aboard the Falklands deserve our utmost admiration. Their unwavering commitment to protecting their country and their fellow servicemen should never be forgotten.

Preserving the Memory

Efforts are underway to preserve the legacy of the HMS Falklands. Museums and historical societies work tirelessly to collect artifacts, records, and personal accounts related to the frigate and its valiant crew.

By sharing their stories and commemorating their sacrifices, we ensure that the memory of the often overlooked heroes of the Falklands War lives on. The HMS Falklands will forever remain a symbol of courage, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Through Fire and Water: HMS Ardent: The Forgotten Frigate of the Falklands

by Mark Higgitt(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11291 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	711 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

When HMS Ardent made her lonely midnight run into Falkland Sound, one hour ahead of the British amphibious group that would retake the Falkland Islands, the average age of the 200 men on board was 23. In the crucial hours that followed, her naval gunfire support kept enemy troops and aircraft pinned down at Goose Green and Darwin. Despite a few scares, it all looked good. Until 5.44pm.At that moment, in the gloom of the gathering dusk, Ardent came under the most concentrated attack of any ship taking part in the landings. She was hit 17 times in 22 minutes and one in four of her ship’s company were either killed or wounded. She lost a higher proportion of her men than any other fighting unit in the war. So why has the British public forgotten her name?Through Fire and Water tells the frigate’s story, from Christmas 1981 in Amsterdam to her sinking in Falkland Sound – and beyond. It follows the families who waved off sons, lovers, brothers, husbands and fathers as she left the dockyard. It explains what it was like for British sailors in the Falklands and what it was like for the families waiting at home. It describes the sickening fear of being singled out for destruction, the despair as those on board tried to save their ship and their mates – in that order – while bomb after bomb came crashing down.

Praise for Through Fire and Water:

A very good book, told from the view of the sailors with all the detail of the lower deck. The background and home life of the crew covered too … One of the most moving books I have read’ - Amazon reviewMark Higgitt is a British journalist and author.