In May 1982, HMS Ardent embarked on a critical mission with 199 crew members, whose average age was just 23. As midnight approached, she advanced into Falkland Sound, setting out an hour ahead of the British amphibious forces preparing to reclaim the islands. During the following intense hours, her gunfire provided essential support, holding enemy troops and aircraft at bay around Goose Green and Darwin. Initially, there were moments of hope and minor alarms, but everything changed at 5:44 PM, Just as nightfall neared, Ardent faced the most intense assault of any vessel involved in the landings. Over 22 harrowing minutes, the ship endured 17 direct hits, resulting in severe casualties, with one-quarter of her crew either killed or injured. The HMS Ardent suffered the highest percentage of losses of any unit during the entire conflict.
At Magicman, this date holds profound significance, as our CEO, Mark Henderson, was among those who served on board the HMS Ardent that day. Mark’s survival reminds us of both the fragility of life and the deep gratitude he carries for his comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice. Not a day passes without remembering their bravery, resilience, and the loss endured by their families.
Watch the documentary
This post is a tribute to those who perished and to the spirit of camaraderie that lives on in their memory. Their legacy is not just in the hearts of their loved ones but in every life touched by their service.
Below is a list of the crew members who lost their lives:
1.AB(S) Derek Armstrong
2.Lt Cdr Richard Banfield
3.AB(S) Andrew Barr
4.POAEM(M) Peter Brouard
5.CK Richard Dunkerley
6.ALCK Mick Foote
7.MEM(M)2 Stephen Ford
8.ASTD Shaun Hanson
9.AB(S) Sean Hayward
AB(EW) Stephen Heyes
11.WEM(R)1 Simon Lawson
12.MEM(M)2 Alistair Leighton
13.AEM(N)1 Allan McAulay
14.ALS(R) Mick Mullen
15.LT Brian Murphy
16.LPT Gary Nelson
17.APOWEM(R) Andrew Palmer
18.CK John Roberts
19.LT CDR John Sephton DSC (posthumous)
20.ALMEM(M) Stephen White
21.LMEM(L) Garry Whitford
22.MEM(M)1 Gilbert Williams
Their courage and dedication are forever honoured by those who remember them.
For those wishing to learn more, support, or commemorate the memory of the HMS Ardent and its crew, please visit the following associations and websites:
•South Atlantic Medal Association
We extend our deepest respect and remembrance to the fallen and their families. May they never be forgotten.
There is also a book available if you would like to find out more about HMS Ardent and the crew.
