The Yompers

Yomping was revealed by the journalist Charles Laurence in 1982 as the word which the Royal Marines used to describe carrying heavy loads long distances on foot. Given the intense public interest in the dramatic events then unfolding in the South Atlantic, it caught on and is now in common usage. The Yompers is the first account to be written by a company commander who fought in the Falklands War. Called to action from their beds early on 2 April 1982, the author along with the rest of 45 Commando Royal Marines, sailed 8,000 miles to play a key role in the recovery of the Falkland Islands from Argentine occupation. Lacking helicopters and short of food, they yomped in appalling weather carrying overloaded rucksacks, across ground which threatened to break legs and ankles at every step. Despite extreme hardship, their morale and training ensured they remained a cohesive fighting-fit body of men. They went on to fight the crucial night battle for Two Sisters, the twin 1,000 foot high peaks which were keys to the defensive positions around Stanley.The author paints an illuminating picture of the Royal Marines Commandos at war. Gritty and moving, and at moments wryly amusing, The Yompers provides penetrating, original first-hand insights into wider aspects of the Falklands War as well as conflict in general.