Guardsman Desmond P J Moore

Desmond Patrick James Moore was born in Elphin, Ireland in 1935. He grew up on stories of local hero Major General Sir Luke O'Connor VC, KCB, the first ever recipient of the Victoria Cross.

Des was educated at Clongowes Wood College, and joined the Irish Guards in Liverpool in February 1956 as part of his National Service.

After volunteering for airborne forces, he undertook parachute training course 443 at RAF Abingdon but was back-squadded to Course 445 when he sprained his ankle after completing five descents. Des completed course 445 which ran from 22 May to 16 June 1957 and was posted to No 1 (Guards) Independent Parachute Company.

Des served in Cyprus and Jordan, and was demobbed in February 1959.

He is a valued volunteer at the Airborne Assault Museum and can often be seen in the museum answering questions and explaining the exhibits to visitors.

Des has two daughters and has been happily married since 1969 to ‘Lottie’.