Winter Talk – ‘Oman – The Vital, Unknown War 1965-75.’

While the Americans were fighting in Vietnam, another war was being fought in the mountains of Dhofar, the southern province of the Sultanate of Oman. With the help of its allies, Oman defeated a Communist insurgency which, in essence, was a war for the Strait of Hormuz through which much of the oil sustaining the industrialised world must pass. Oman’s victory was of great strategic importance, and yet the story of this hard fought struggle is not widely known. Ian Gardiner, who, as a young officer commanded a company of Omani soldiers, will explain the background and describe what it was like to live and fight as an Arab in the high passes of Dhofar.

There will be a book signing following the talk.

Image shows photograph of Brigadier Ian Gardiner in the Oman.

About the Speaker Ian Gardiner was commissioned into the Royal Marines in 1968. He fought in the Dhofar War in Oman from 1973 to 1975 where he was decorated with the Omani Distinguished Service Medal for Gallantry. He also fought in the Falklands War in 1982 commanding a rifle company in 45 Commando Royal Marines. Subsequent command of 40 Commando included his fourth operational tour in Northern Ireland. He was also an Equerry to the late HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.