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Martin Hornby |
Vice Chairman
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Bradstock,
Ducks Hill
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Langport |
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Somerset |
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TA10 9EN |
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01458 251095 |
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07793 051551 |
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I originate from the village of Poulton-le-Flyde, in Lancashire. As a young child my family moved to Chester where I lived until I was 18 years of age. I attended Upton-by-Chester Comprehensive School. It was here that I developed a love of history which was my most enjoyable subject at school. After completing my A Levels my family moved to London. I then joined the Royal Marines Commandos in January 1979, where I served as an NCO. During my 7+ years in the Marines I saw active service in Cyprus, Belize and twice in Northern Ireland.
I have always had an interest in military history and this increased whilst I served in the Marines, although the main areas of interest to myself at this time was the Second World War and all military conflicts thereafter.
My interest in the Great War was prompted by my father, Frank, an RAF World War 2 veteran, when he gave me his WW2 service medals and those of my grandfather Walter Hornby. Walter had served in the Great War as a Sergeant in the Machine Gun Corps. Walter was awarded the Military Medal at the battle of Arras in an action at the Railway Triangle.
Following my service in the Royal Marines, I served as a Police Officer in the Avon and Somerset Constabulary from which I retired in March 2010.
In 1998 I joined the WFA. Two years later I founded the Somerset Branch. The Branch is very proud of the fact that Harry Patch was an active member in his later years.
During my seven years on the WFA Executive Committee I have been involved in many projects. The reprinting of "Stand To!"in book form. The scanning of the IWM map archives and their subsequent production on DVD. The digitisation of the IWM's sound archives and the saving of the Medal Index Cards.
My views on the WFA are that it is the premiere Great War history association. It pays no heed to a person's background or education. It welcomes everyone with equal enthusiasm and values every person's yearning to learn more about the Great War.
Finally I must refer to my friendship with Harry Patch. He was an extraordinary chap and a true gentleman. To my dying day I will remember just one of Harry’s thoughts and that is “War is bloody awful we must do everything we can to stop it ever happening again”. Harry was right and I hope that through the WFA we can remind future generations what happens if you forget the past. We must always seek to tell the truth. Myth and Legend clouds the judgements of those who lead, it can deceive and misguide their judgement. The WFA must always protect and champion the truth. |
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WFA Trustees 
