Key Facts
- Dates
- 28–29 May 1982
- British unit
- 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment (2 PARA)
- Duration
- Approximately 2 days
- Victoria Cross awarded
- Lt-Col Herbert Jones (posthumous)
- Strategic objective
- Argentine-held airfield at Goose Green
Strategic Narrative Overview
The British assault began in the early hours of 28 May 1982, led by 2 PARA under Lieutenant-Colonel Herbert Jones. The advance was slowed by Argentine trenches with interlocking fields of fire. A BBC Radio broadcast had forewarned the defenders of the imminent attack, drawing criticism from Jones. Jones was killed during a solo charge on an enemy machine-gun post, a moment that became central to the battle's legacy.
01 / The Origins
Following Argentina's April 1982 invasion of the Falkland Islands, Britain dispatched a naval task force and launched an amphibious landing at San Carlos Water on East Falkland. Argentine forces held a well-fortified position at Goose Green on the island's central isthmus, including a tactically important airfield within striking distance of the British beachhead, making the settlement a priority military objective.
03 / The Outcome
The Argentine garrison agreed to a ceasefire and formally surrendered on the morning of 29 May 1982, handing Britain control of the Goose Green airfield. Lieutenant-Colonel Jones was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions. The British victory provided a significant boost to morale and helped consolidate the beachhead at San Carlos as operations continued toward Stanley.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Lieutenant-Colonel Herbert Jones.
Side B
1 belligerent
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.