Desmond Hamill

Calling out the military in aid of the civil powers was not, in Northern Ireland in 1969, a straightforward matter. At first the soldiers were welcomed with cups of tea; sixteen years later some would go home in their coffins.

Over a long period of research, ITN reporter Desmond Hamill gained access to the decision-makers in the Army and at Whitehall best able to explain the Army itself has seen and understood its role in Northern Ireland since 1969.

Based largely on both their personal interviews, and on the views of the soldiers themselves, who have talked freely about the Army’s role, this is a story of confusion of aims and ignorance of people and attitudes; of dogged determination, great courage, mistakes, many frustrations, and a few triumphs; it is also the authentic voice of the soldier at the sharp end.