Prior to going to Arnhem 10th Battalion the Parachute Regiment was Stationed around the Village of Somerby in Rutland . They left for Market garden around 600 strong. On their return the villagers had arranged a large reception and party. they were dismayed when only about 40 returned. The Friends of theTenth over the past few years have raised nearly £100.000.00 to erect a memorial and Gardens overlooking the village that was dedicated this weekend.. At a ceremony attended by around 400 post war 10 Para Veterans and guest the Memorial was unveiled by two WW2 members of the Battalion and Major General Ran Munro who started as a private in post war 10 Para.. The names of the fallen are inscribed on the reverse of the Slabs.
I was unaware of BBC Coverage But whilst on that subject. Re enactors jumping from a Dakota at the event keep the legend of Myrtle the Para Chicken Going.(Posted ese where on site) https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=2428229813959206
That Weather Cock was for some years a prize at our Battalion Rifle Meetings but has since returned home.
John Jeffries, pictured on the left of the last two 10 Para veterans, was 4th Para Bde Signals not 10 Para. The other one in the photo is Dixie Deane
