HMS Caroline (in the Pump House) on Tuesday 1st august, 12 noon
The Belfast Boys is the story of Belfast’s young men who survived the Yangtze Incident onboard H.M.S. Amethyst in China in 1949, regarded as one of the Royal Navy’s greatest ever escapes.
The book is written by the son of H.M.S. Amethyst Belfast stoker Sammy Bannister with insertions by Raymond McCullough, son of, Able Seaman Ray McCullough Snr, both of whom were part of the Yangtze Incident. Andy’s father was seriously wounded during the Incident.
In the subsequent 1957 classic film, Yangtse Incident: The Story of H.M.S. Amethyst, Andy Bannister’s father was played by iconic Scottish actor, Ian Bannen.
Interviews and photos available with author, Andy Bannister and his good friend Ray McCullough Jnr, two sons of the Belfast Boys, involved in the dramatic Yangtze Incident 1949.
“This is the story of how some young men from both sides of the divide in Belfast and surrounding areas of Ireland, joined the Royal Navy. Very soon into their careers they found themselves facing the Chinese People’s Liberation Army. The events took place in a war-torn China in 1949 whilst serving on board the Royal Navy Frigate, HMS Amethyst. After coming under unprovoked heavy artillery fire power, and suffering many losses, they were trapped in the jaws of their captors. Despite this, they managed a daring midnight run to freedom. Then seven decades later, two of their sons meet after a long campaign to return medals awarded to one of their fathers. Then they begin a joint campaign to have their fathers’ and fellow crew mates recognised for their bravery.” (Andy Bannister)
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