The Forgotten Army
Manx Radio's Island Life Series - Specials
Tuesday, 14 November 2023 - 46 minutes
101-year-old Port Erin resident James Fenton was a Bombardier with 178 Field Regiment of the Royal Artillery during WWII. At the age of 20, he was sent to fight in the steamy jungles of Burma as part of the 14th Army, the so-called “Forgotten Army”.
Listen now to James’s incredible story in full, as part of Remembrance 2023.
James recalls his exploits in Primary Training and thoughts on life when he was posted to the far east. From dealing with the hazards of malaria ridden mosquitos, snakes and scorpions to the daily onslaught of shelling by the Japanese army.
James always had a passion for art and photography and recalls developing films whilst under a tarpaulin as the enemy sent wave after wave of mortars into his camp. After the war and a career in design, James moved to the Isle of Man to open the photographic museum in Port Erin.
Photo credit: Royal British Legion Onchan Branch
