Eric Cottam, Private, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Warwickshire Regiment ©
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Read this introduction to Eric Cottam's story, then listen to him describe his experiences, using the links at the foot of this page.

Eric Cottam decided he wanted to join the army when he was still under age, as a way of learning a proper trade and making something of his 'aimless life'. He couldn't wait to be old enough and was not pleased to be turned down at first on health grounds. In 1938, however, he finally was accepted in the Royal Warwickshire Regiment.

Soon after war was declared he sailed with his battalion to France, and then travelled to the Belgian border. His platoon commander was Captain JF Lynn-Allen, who later died saving the life of one of his men. On 20 May 1940, as his battalion struggled to defend itself against advancing German troops near Tournai, Eric Cottam was badly wounded and had to be transported on hospital trains to Dunkirk then back home.

As a consequence of his injuries he lost both his legs. He married a nurse, whom he met in hospital soon after his return from Dunkirk, and has written a book about his experiences.

	Treatment for injuries Play audio Read transcript

	Being transferred from the train to the ship Play audio Read transcript
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