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| 25 Feb 2025 | |
| Historical Tours |
Recently, a group of Falklands War veterans came together for a poignant reunion at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
Organized by Sandhurst Trust guide and former Paratrooper Stuart Hepton, the visit was part of a broader tour aimed at strengthening the unique bond between men who once faced each other in battle. These veterans of the 1982 conflict, are now fostering a remarkable sense of camaraderie and friendship sparked by an Argentinian helmet!
Whilst veteran reunions are not uncommon, this gathering was particularly significant. Former adversaries, once divided by war, stood side by side, sharing stories and reflecting on their past. The day commenced with welcome coffee in the Wellington Room, where the special guests were met by Academy staff from Falkland’s company and the Parachute Regiment.
Following the coffee reception, the guests were led on a comprehensive historical tour of the academy which highlighted Sandhurst's rich heritage.
The day's events culminated in lunch at the officers mess, providing future opportunities to chat and share experiences of their respective nations.
So how was the bond formed?
Author and Falkland veteran Mark Eyles-Thomas was at a book signing event when he was unexpectedly given an Argentina helmet by a fellow veteran
Unsure what to do with the helmet, Mark placed it into storage until 2021 when a military enthusiast friend asked to see it. Upon closer inspection they noticed the name SIRTORI handwritten on the inside. And so started a quest to discover whose helmet this was and ultimately reunite it with its owner.
What unfolded was a fascinating journey that ultimately saw Mark travel to Argentina to meet with the family of the helmet’s owner. During this visit Mark met with Colonel Carrizo Salvadoes who commanded the Argentine forces on Mount Longdon facing Mark’s battalion. Earlier during his visit to the UK, Colonel Salvadoes met Lt Gen Sir Hew Pike KCB DSO MBE, who commanded 3 Para during the battle for Mount Longdon. To read the full story please click here.
Historical Tours
Historical Tours take place throughout the year and are led by experienced tour guides, all retired military, who share their extensive knowledge on the history of the Academy and its buildings. Typical tours last 2.5 hours, giving visitors plenty of time to take in the history of the buildings and rooms.
Public History Tours are currently available to book on the following dates:
For more information and to book for a tour please visit our tours page
