Adrian John Anslow

Adrian was born on the 9th of September 1961. He was educated at Coppice High School in Wednesfield. In 1979, he joined the Royal Navy, and completed his training in HMS Raleigh. Adrian was a young man who lived life to the full, and never wasted a moment of his all too short time. He often spoke of “this wonderful world” and pointed out to people around him the things which are often taken for granted. He was a keen photographer and his pictures reflect his personality. Simple, yet touching pictures of family and the area in which he lived. In August 1981, he took a holiday in Egypt, and the photographs he took demonstrate a sensitive appreciation of the aesthetic. He was a keen musician and athlete. He represented the Navy in swimming, shooting, running, fencing and boxing.

On April 1st, 1982, Adrian made a surprise visit home. He told his parents that he was going to an unknown destination, but that they weren’t to worry. He flew to Ascension Island and from there he joined the Fort Austin. His letters from the South Atlantic were mostly about the wildlife – the whales and the turtles he had seen. Later, however, he wrote of his compassion for the young Argentinians. He said that during “Action Stations” his heart had beaten a little faster, and that hopefully he would not be a hero. At this time he was aboard HMS Invincible, but he then transferred to the Atlantic Conveyor.

Atlantic Conveyor had sailed for Ascension on the 25th April carrying Wessex and Chinook helicopters, having been requisitioned on the 14th April and converted at Plymouth. On arrival, she embarked Sea Harriers and Harriers and departed on the 7th for the Main Battle Group whereupon the Harriers were transferred. On the 25th May, 90 miles north-east of Port Stanley en route to San Carlos Water, the ship was hit by an Exocet missile. The explosion and resulting fires caused her to be abandoned with the loss of twelve lives. She remained afloat but sank in heavy seas on the 31st May whilst under tow.

Adrian rests with his comrades and his life is commemorated on a number of memorials.

Relatives, comrades and friends are warmly encouraged to contribute material to these pages.