The national press covers the finding of Sapper John French’s diary. In 30 years of research by Peter Barton this newly-discovered diary gives the first detailed account of the blowing of the Red Dragon mine and the subsequent rescue attempt of Hackett, Collins and their comrades. Please read EYE-WITNESS ACCOUNT section for diary entries.
- Read the Daily Telegraph story on Hackett VC, The ‘most noble’ Victoria Cross hero
Of all the acts of heroism that have been rewarded with a Victoria Cross, it is, perhaps, the most noble. […] Sapper William Hackett spurned the opportunity to crawl to safety in order to remain behind to comfort a wounded comrade, before a second collapse sealed the two men in forever.
- Read The Sun story on John French, War hero’s diary found 90 years on
A Tommy’s amazing long-lost diaries telling of the hell of life in the trenches have come to light after more than 90 years.
- Read the Daily Mail story John French, Hidden diary reveals amazing trench truces
With shells screaming overhead and German snipers only 75 yards away, just staying alive was a remarkable achievement. Yet huddled in the mud-filled trenches, Sapper John T French found the time to compile a remarkable diary.
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