Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #29210 in Books
• Published on: 2003-07-22
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 416 pages

Synopsis
Southby-Tailyour, a Royal Marine, charted the waters around the Falkland Islands before the Argentinian invasion in 1982. Armed with his local knowledge, he advised the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and led all major amphibious landings during the Falklands Islands conflict. This military memoir offers his perspective on the war. B&w historical a

Customer Reviews

Frank Account
Reasons in Writing is an extraordinary book written by an extraordinary man.
Many books have been written about the battle to regain the Falkland Islands following the Argentinean invasion in 1982. Ewen Southby-Tailyour had a unique perspective. During the conflict his military role was that of amphibious warfare; leading landing craft ashore in San Carlos and Bluff Cove. Of equal importance was his part as an expert adviser to the task force planners on the suitability of beaches and sea passages. His knowledge of the littoral waters around the islands was gleaned whilst he was in charge of the Royal Marine detachment prior to the outbreak of hostilities.
Reasons in Writing covers Ewen's time on the Falkands before and during the war in great detail. His love of the service, sea, yachting and wildlife are apparent. Written a decade after the conflict the author makes use of his detailed diary to accurately tell the story from his point of view as well as bringing in accounts from other writers on the war.
One of the most tragic episodes in the Falklands War was the attack on the Sir Galahad ship which cost the lives of dozens of Welsh Guardsmen when it was attacked at anchor in Bluff Cove by Argentinean Skyhawk aircraft on 8th June 1982. Ewen explains frankly the events which led to this disaster. Since the conflict blame has attempted to be apportioned by some in the media. Reading Ewen's account you will be able to form your own conclusion.
Reasons in Writing is a compelling and fascinating book written in a no-nonsense style which may be a little uncomfortable for some "top brass" readers.

A Falkland Love Affair
This is one of the best books about the Falklands war I have read. The author, who seems to be a dashing fellow and a great sailor, really takes the islands to his heart - and so do we. His records of navigating the islands must have been invaluable for the amphibious landings, as was his expertise in this branch of the soldier's art - once again, England was extraordinary lucky in having the right man in the right place. The book is written with modesty and skill, so that we follow the author closely, and have a privileged view of the landings. Congratulations to author and Leo Cooper, the publisher.

Good Read
I purchased the book as I had been on one of the landing crafts when the Scots Guards had an overnight cold shower for a number of hours, described in the book. The author has strong opinions and is not PC, but gives an honest description of his experiences.