Soldier
Soldier
Born: December 3, 1919; Died: September, 4 2014.
Regimental Sergeant Major Tommy Collett, who has died aged 94, was with the 1st Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders during the Korean War.
He was one of those brave soldiers historians have written were involved in "the forgotten war with too many acts of bravery by courageous men also forgotten''. His courage and leadership throughout the conflict were exemplary.
In August 1950, the battalion came under heavy enemy fire as they crossed the Nakdong river. Their objective was to capture Point 282, a strategically important hilltop which the North Koreans held. The battalion advanced and got to the summit, only to find there was another hill which was well defended.
The Argylls returned fire - expecting relief from nearby American troops. Inexplicably they were ordered back to base and the Argylls found themselves in a most vulnerable position. Their orders were to hold the position to the last man and the last round.
RSM Collett organised stretcher- bearers from the able-bodied so many were away from the front line for an hour. Collett timed all the parties with a stopwatch, warning them: "No stopping for a fag at the bottom of the hill! Got it?"
The situation worsened further when Mr Collett's company was napalm-bombed by US planes. The later inquiry into the tragedy concluded there was some confusion over the signalling arrangements. The effects of the napalm attack on the troops were horrendous. Mr Collett had to minister to soldiers with first-degree burns.
One infantryman reported to him that his weapon was out of action and jammed. Mr Collett handed him his rifle and continued the battle as best he could.
Mr Collett courageously rallied his men and regained some of the lost territory. He organised a controlled withdrawal and carried an injured man to safety. The injured man said: "I never thought I would have my arms around your neck." Back came the reply: "It will cost you a pint, one day." Years later the rescued man had great pleasure in fulfilling the agreement.
Mr Collett's bravery and lack of concern for his own safety were recognised by the award of the Military Medal.
In April 1951, the Argylls were relieved and returned to Hong Kong with their reputation for discipline, coolness and valour much enhanced.
Thomas James Richard Collett was educated in south London. In 1935 he joined the army and was transferred to the Argyll and Sutherland Highlander, serving in Palestine and Hong Kong before embarking for Korea.
Latterly, Mr Collett saw service at both Edinburgh and Stirling castles and with the Officer Training Corps attached to Glasgow University.
He retired from the army in 1962. His devotion to the Argylls was absolute and he remained proud of his association with the regiment.
In his retirement he ran a pub, for 23 years, in Bury St Edmunds. He married Eva Iley in 1945. She predeceased him and he is survived by their son.
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