MV Norland, Secret Weapon of the Falklands War: From North Sea Ferry to Task Force Assault Ship

In 1982, MV Norland was a North Sea ferry that was transformed into a troop ship to transport the 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment to the Falklands. It became the first vessel to enter San Carlos Water and was used as a shelter for survivors and a ferry service between the Falklands and Ascension Island. The crew was considered the first in and the last out, serving for ten months.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 20 August 2021
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

In 1982, the North Sea ferry MV Norland played a significant role in transporting passengers and vehicles between Hull and Rotterdam. However, its journey took an unexpected turn when it was requisitioned as a troop ship to transport the 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment to the Falklands War. The volunteer merchant navy crew, who had initially believed they would only venture as far as the Ascension Island, were shocked to discover that their destination was the Falklands. They were informed that their mission would be an extended North Sea booze cruise, with no further plans for deployment.

However, without any prior notice, the role of MV Norland was abruptly changed, and it became the first vessel to enter San Carlos Water. This strategic move placed the ship in a vulnerable position, as it became a sitting duck during the frequent air raids in "Bomb Alley." The ship was tasked with disembarking troops and carrying out resupply runs, making it a prime target for enemy attacks.

Despite the imminent danger, MV Norland managed to narrowly escape sinking. It served as a shelter for survivors and a collection point for Gurkhas from the QE2, which had been anchored in South Georgia. The Gurkhas were then transported to San Carlos Bay, where they were disembarked before repatriating Argentine POWs.

After the surrender, MV Norland continued to provide a ferry service between the Falklands and Ascension Island. The crew of the Norland, who had been deployed for ten months, were considered the first in and the last out of the war. This gripping account highlights the experiences of non-combatant volunteers who were railroaded into serving in a war they had not signed up for.

The journey of MV Norland serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by individuals who are called upon to serve their country in times of conflict, often without fully understanding the consequences of their actions. The ship's role in the Falklands War also highlights the complexities of international relations and the geopolitical tensions that can arise in the aftermath of conflict.

In conclusion, the journey of MV Norland is a captivating tale of resilience, bravery, and the human spirit in the face of war. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in times of conflict and the complexities of international relations. The ship's journey continues to inspire and remind us of the importance of peace, diplomacy, and the protection of human rights.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750997126