Down South: A Falklands War Diary

by Chris Parry

28-year-old Chris Parry was an officer on a Wessex III helicopter on HMS Antrim during the Falklands War. Built in the 1960s, Antrim was primarily designed to deal with the threat from Soviet missiles. But in the early months of 1982 she found herself heading south to spearhead the operation to recover South Georgia from the Argentinians.

Within days Parry and his crew were trying to land SAS members on the formidable Fortuna Glacier in a near white-out. Buffeted by storm-force winds and driving snowstorms, they managed to disembark the men - only to be forced to return the following day when it was clear they couldn't survive the extremely hostile conditions. A few days later a sombre Parry was releasing the depth charges which disabled an Argentinian sub lurking in the freezing waters of South Georgia. He went on to take part in the landings at San Carlos and experience the intensity of Bomb Alley.

Chris Parry's diary, written every evening during the conflict immediately after the events described, has been lost for thirty years. It is published now for the first time on the anniversary of the war, a vivid and eloquent reminder of the dangers and hardships endured by our forces during the conflict.

Genres: History, Biography

384 pages, Hardcover

First published February 16, 2012

Reviews

[Roger Morgan-Grenville · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting history (particularly as I lived on South Georgia for a time, and know the Fortuna Glacier). Makes one relaise just how nearly it all went wrong, and how brave these people were. Benefits from not being tempted be wise after the event, but could have used some good editing nonetheless.

[Charlie Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes you find a writer that just has something to say in a way that is intelligent but not pretentious, Chris Parry is that type of writer, his diaries are honest and I'm sure some of it took some guts to not edit ( who really thinks the same as they did in the 20's?) but it's brilliant, intelligent but not strictly intellectual which means it's engaging and informative without being too wordy or bland.
His understanding of history is hugely impressive and he references it through his books.
If you know nothing about the Falklands this is the book for you and if your an expert , you will still learn something.
I am so impressed with his writing that I have started watching his talks on Youtube which are equally as incitement and engaging.
I guess I have turned into a fan boy.

[Lindsay Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably one of the best Falklands account out there (And I've read a few !)
Chris Parry CBE, who went on to attain the giddy heights of Rear Admiral, gives a fascinating account of both the air war and the general synopsis during those dark 100 days in 1982.

Those who enjoy this book may to interested to know that Parry had a starring role in the BBC's wonderful 'Sailor' documentary from 1976, where as a young and impressionable Sub Lieutenant on-board HMS Ark Royal, his leadership skills were already evident.
The accounts in the book of the rescue from South Georgia's Fortuna Glacier of the SAS detachment will make your hairs stand on end !!

[Bill Seaby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read many diaries. This was enjoyable from beginning to end as Chris captured daily events and observations. He was not on the sidelines, either, actually in combat to the extent of depth charging a submarine and his ship being almost destroyed when bombed by the Argentines. Well educated, Parry's gift of language, history and colorful descriptive narration make "Down South" a strong recommended read.

[Ricky Paule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable. One of the better war dairy books. Thanks to his being in the position he was, he was witness to and involved in, several historically important moments of the Falklands War which makes this book an important document by itself. Beyond that it is humourous, captivating and very interesting. Definitely worth grabbing a copy.

[Au Yong · Rating 3 out of 5]

A frank appraisal of the Falklands war by someone who was there. He has bared it all to his readers - the fears, the apprehension, the tension - from the moment the convoy sailed until the final Argentinian surrender at Stanley.

[Daniel Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastically detailed diary of a helicopter observer in the Royal Navy who fought in the Falklands War.

Got this book from the library and am tempted to buy it as it is definitely worth reading again

[Les Chatfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

As it really was

Essential reading for anyone in politics or the armed forces. The various actions are described in an understated manner typical of servicemen. Fascinating read

[Alex Marriott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obviously, the effect of reading your Dad named in a book about being at war is profound to say the least

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating insight into the Falklands War by a young officer who went on to become an admiral.

I enjoyed his views on the Welsh Guards and everyday life at sea during wartime.

[Donald S Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good read.

Written as it happens without any embellishment. Down to earth thoughts and feelings as events unfold. As I spent the majority of my Falklands War in Bomb Alley (San Carlos), I found it interesting on how the detached task force to retake South Georgia went about it businesses and also could relate to much of what they experienced.

[David P · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read a large number of books about the Falklands War and yet I found plenty of interest in this exciting, but very personal account.