What is adrian carton de wiart?

Adrian Carton de Wiart

Adrian Carton de Wiart (1880-1963) was a British Army officer of Belgian and Irish descent. He was known for his remarkable courage and resilience throughout his extensive military career. Often described as "unbreakable," he served in the Boer War, World War I, World War II, and even served as a prisoner of war.

  • Military Service: De Wiart participated in numerous conflicts. He lost his left eye and left hand, among other injuries, but repeatedly returned to the front lines. His service highlights include:

    • Boer War (as a civilian volunteer): Involved in early skirmishes.
    • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/World%20War%20I">World War I</a>: Served with distinction, commanding infantry battalions. He was severely wounded multiple times, losing his eye at the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Second%20Battle%20of%20Ypres">Second Battle of Ypres</a> and his hand at the Somme. He was awarded the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Victoria%20Cross">Victoria Cross</a> in 1916 for his bravery at La Boiselle.
    • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/World%20War%20II">World War II</a>: Served in Norway, and was captured by the Italians in 1941 while en route to Egypt.
    • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Prisoner%20of%20War">Prisoner of War</a>: He was held in an Italian POW camp, but was released in 1943 to act as an intermediary in secret negotiations between the Allies and Italy to broker a peace treaty.
  • Temperament: De Wiart was known for his aggressive and fearless personality. His autobiography, Happy Odyssey, gives a vivid and often humorous account of his experiences. He was a truly dedicated and resilient soldier, embodying bravery and determination.

  • Later Life: Following his military service, De Wiart served as a special envoy to China. He retired in the 1950s and lived in Ireland until his death in 1963. He is remembered as one of the most decorated and remarkable soldiers in British military history.