Down South: A Falklands War Diary

by Chris Parry

Down South by Chris Parry - one man's astonishing diary of war in the Falklands'A gripping account of heroism - and chaos - in the South Atlantic' Mail on Sunday'Compelling, gripping. A vividly written, thought-provoking and engaging account' The TimesIn 1982 Lieutenant Chris Parry sailed aboard destroyer HMS Antrim to liberate the Argentine-occupied Falkland Islands. Parry and his crew, in their Wessex helicopter, were soon launched into action rescuing an SAS party stuck on a glacier in gales that had already downed two others. Soon after they single-handedly pursued and fatally wounded a submarine before taking part in terrifying but crucial drop landings under heavy fire. Down South is a hands on, day-by-day account of war fought in the most appalling conditions by men whose grit and fighting spirit overcame all obstacles.This important and extraordinary book of recent history will be enjoyed by readers of Antony Beevor and Max Hastings.'Gripping. A graphic description of just how they pulled off a real-life Mission Impossible' Daily Express 'Excellent. A fascinating war diary' Daily Telegraph'Vivid and insightful. Parry excels in revealing the day-to-day challenges of fighting a campaign in hostile surroundings' Financial Times'A truly gripping historical account' Niall Ferguson 'A priceless contribution to military history. Riveting' Literary ReviewChris Parry joined the Royal Navy after university and then became an Observer in the Fleet Air Arm in 1979. After the Falklands War he had a successful career in the navy, and on promotion to Rear Admiral in 2005 he became the Ministry of Defence's Director of Developments, Concepts and Doctrines. He was appointed a CBE in 2004. Now retired from the armed services, he heads a company which specializes in geo-strategic forecasting.

Genres: History, Biography

370 pages, Kindle Edition

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.