Britain has just lost one of its most unique and irreplaceable men; the army has just lost one of its greatest champions and defenders. Professor Richard Holmes was the embodiment of everything that makes this country and its army great. He had a brain the size of a planet and an abundance of common sense wisdom, gravitas, experience and judgment, that frankly is pretty damn rare and about as special as it gets. A giant of academia and a brilliant historian, what marked him out for me was the obvious reverence, affection and respect that he had for the ordinary soldiers, whom formed the backbone of the campaigns he covered. He didnt just celebrate the achievements of our most legendary leaders and brilliant Generals whom designed our victories he beat the drum for the rankers whom executed them.
Professor Holmes was utterly consistent and possessed rock-solid integrity on all levels. If you wrote to this great man he would take the time to compose a thorough, thoughtful and personal response no matter what your station or question. I know that he offered private moral support and practical backing to individuals whom asked him for his council and guidance. If you were a soldier this guy would go above and beyond for you; he walked the walk and talked the talk his private face was exactly the same as his public one.
A great Englishman, a literary giant and an unmatchable scholar. But most of all a soldier.
Brigadier Holmes: RIP