An SAS soldier known as “Touché” endured freezing temperatures and gale-force winds during daring operations in the Falklands War as part of a remarkable military career lasting almost four decades.
Thomas James “Tommy” Turtle served with 22 SAS during the 1982 conflict, taking part in reconnaissance missions in South Georgia and the raid on Pebble Island Airfield.
He would go on to become one of the regiment’s most respected Irish-born soldiers.
Here is all you need to know about Tommy Turtle and his extraordinary military career.
Thomas James Turtle
Thomas James Turtle BEM, better known as Tommy Turtle or “Touché”, was born in Ireland on 24 December 1950.
He grew up in a mixed Protestant and Catholic family and left school at 14. He later worked in a woollen mill and other jobs.
At 16, he joined the Irish Army Reserve before beginning a military career with the British Army.
Joining the SAS in 1977
After serving with the Royal Irish Rangers, Turtle developed a reputation as a highly capable soldier.
He passed the demanding SAS selection process in 1977. Before joining, he had served in West Germany, Gibraltar and the Middle East.
He also completed the Parachute Regiment Battle School course at Brecon.
Falklands War service
Turtle’s most famous military service came during the Falklands War in 1982.
As a corporal in 22 SAS, he took part in reconnaissance missions in South Georgia, the raid on Pebble Island Airfield, and actions around Goose Green and Bluff Cove Peak.
The operations helped British forces gather intelligence and disrupt Argentine military capabilities.
South Georgia operations
During Operation Paraquet, the operation to retake South Georgia, Turtle and fellow SAS soldiers faced severe weather conditions.
They endured gale-force winds, freezing temperatures and difficult terrain while carrying out reconnaissance missions.
The patrol’s determination under extreme conditions became part of SAS folklore.
Distinguished SAS career
Following the Falklands conflict, Turtle continued serving with the SAS for many years.
His career spanned almost four decades in uniform and included operational, instructional and leadership roles across numerous theatres.
He later advised during operations linked to Bosnia and held positions within special forces command structures.
Awards and recognition
Turtle was awarded the British Empire Medal and received a Mention in Despatches during his military career.
The honours recognised his leadership, professionalism and gallantry during demanding Army service.
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Later career and legacy
After leaving the SAS, Turtle served as an officer in the Royal Irish Regiment.
He retired from military service in 2005, after a career lasting nearly 40 years.
Following his death in December 2020, aged 70, he was remembered as one of the SAS’s most respected Irish-born soldiers.
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