NAM.2008-09-27-1

Compact disc of oral history interview with Cpl Danny Groves, Section Commander, 1st Bn Royal Irish Regiment, Mortar Platoon, 2000-2006. Interview conducted by Mairead O’Hara, 23 May 2007 for National Army Museum Helmand Exhibition. Interview covers his reasons for joining the army and outlines his first few years in service then focusses on his service during Operation HERRICK, Sept 2006 at Musa Qala in Helmand Province. He describes the weather, environment and landscape, as well as the various recreational competitions which he and his soldiers created and the food that they ate. He then describes the events of 7 – 25 Sept, including a mortar attack on his base by the Taleban, which left one soldier dead (Rgr Anare Draiva), and another injured, who later died of his wounds (Cpl Paul Muirhead). He explains how he dealt with the situation and his role in managing his platoon. Groves then talks about the morale of his soldiers during September, after finding out an injured soldier, L/Cpl Luke McCulloch had since died of his wounds. He discusses a ceasefire on 14 Sept which led to false hope that they would be evacuated out to Camp Bastion, and their reactions to having their time in Helmand extended again and again. Associated with Operation HERRICK, Afghanistan (2001-2021), 2001-2014.

HERRICK, Operation, 2002-14 (Afghanistan 2001-2021), Musa Qala, Siege of, 2006 (Afghanistan 2001-2021)