VSC Summer Lunch – Remembering the Falklands

Yesterday, more than 130 members and guests gathered at the Victory Services Club for our Summer Lunch, marking 44 years since the Falklands Conflict.

Guests enjoyed an exceptional meal prepared by our award-winning chefs, followed by compelling first-hand accounts from two distinguished speakers who experienced the conflict from different perspectives—at sea and on land.

Photo above left to right: Sergeant Thomas ‘Tom’ Herring and Major General Jeff Mason MBE RM 

Major General Jeff Mason MBE RM

In April 1982, Jeff Mason, then a young Royal Marines Lieutenant, was recalled from Lympstone to rejoin HMS INTREPID and sailed south with the Task Force.

He took part in the landings at San Carlos Water, deployed ashore as a watchkeeper, commanded landing craft—including a foray to West Falkland—and assisted in securing the surrender at Fox Bay/Port Howard, before returning to the UK with a more realistic and mature perspective on life.

Sergeant Thomas ‘Tom’ Herring, Parachute Regiment

In April 1982, Sergeant Tom Herring was serving with 3 PARA’s Training Wing when he was placed on immediate notice and deployed south with the Task Force.

On arrival, he commanded a composite platoon protecting Battalion HQ and supported rifle companies in defence and attack, including the battle for Mount Longdon. The experience left him with enduring memories of the cost of war, the courage of his comrades, and great pride in having fought for British territory alongside the “class of ’82.”

Their candid reflections conveyed the courage and resilience of those who served, the human cost of war and the lasting effect of their experiences.

We were also delighted to welcome many Falklands Veterans, whose presence added special significance to the occasion and gave everyone an opportunity to recognise their service. Those who attended left with a deeper understanding of the conflict and renewed respect for all who served in this conflict.

Our sincere thanks go to Major General Jeff Mason MBE RM and Sergeant Tom Herring for sharing their stories, and to everyone who joined us for the event.