29 May 1982 saw the eventual liberation of the Goose Green Settlement in the Falkland Islands after two days of fierce fighting between the soldiers of 2 Para and the occupying Argentine Forces.

The battle for Goose Green was one of the most well-documented events of the Falklands Conflict. It was the first major land conflict, by the end of which soldiers from 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment had captured the settlement and the surrounding area but had lost their commander, Lieutenant-Colonel ‘H�?Jones, who was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross for his leadership and bravery during the battle.

This week the battle, and those that lost their lives, including Lieutenant Colonel 'H' Jones VC, were commemorated at a Service of Remembrance at the Memorial on the hill above Goose Green.

In attendance was His Excellency, Governor Alan Huckle; Commander British Forces South Atlantic Islands, Brigadier Nick Davies MBE MC,  along with many of the local people who were held captive during the fighting. The service was also attended by a group of 14 serving Paras and two veterans of the battle itself.

See Related Links >>> for more pictures of the ceremony at Goose Green.

Under a blue sky, the poignant service was led by the collective clergy of the islands, both civilian and military. The ceremony was also well attended by a large number of residents who travelled from all over the Falkland Islands to be present.

Following the ceremony an RAF Tornado F3, part of the Quick Reaction Force which operates in the Islands, provided the assembled crowd with an impromptu flypast. The cold proved too much after a while and the masses then filed into the same hall that the locals had been held in 25 years ago. A party atmosphere descended and there was plenty of food and drink to keep everyone happy.

Following the ceremony Brigadier Davies explained his feelings about the significance of the Battle of Goose Green:

"Whilst there are many services and memorials over this period every year, and they are all as important as each other, the liberation of Goose Green, and the winning of the Victoria Cross by Col Jones, really was the first major victory of the land campaign and truly struck a chord back in the United Kingdom.

"It hardened a nation’s resolve to what the forces here had to do but it also gladdened hearts. To be here, 25 years later is very special and truly makes one appreciate what they had to go through into to win the battle, and indeed the eventual campaign.

"The robustness, determination, flexibility and courage of the British Army was never more demonstrated than during the Falklands campaign, and at Goose Green in particular."

Captain Ed Lloyd Owen, currently serving in the Falkland Islands and who was also present at the service, added:

"The service was incredibly moving; it is very important that we remember those that gave their lives for the preservation of democracy in a sombre and fitting manner in this important anniversary year. It is also very impressive to see how the modern Falklands are now a prosperous and thriving society, and it is beholden to us to protect their further right to self-determination.

"It is important that the events of 1982 are remembered correctly; not only for the relatives, family and friends of those who gave their lives, but also for the nation to thank them for their sacrifices in the liberation of the Falklands.

"This is just one memorial service in a series of services that are taking place over the next couple of weeks here in the Falklands. These events will be televised around the world. There will also be a large parade on Horseguards in London with veterans of the campaign in attendance."