Airey Middleton Sheffield NEAVE

The following is transcribed from the plaque dedicated to him at the National Memorial Arboretum.

As a soldier. Airey Neave was, in 1942 the first British Prisoner of War to escape from Colditz Castle, the prison fortress in Germany during World War Two. He escaped disguised as a German Officer and after may adventures returned to England to continue the fight.

As and escaper himself he joined MI9, with his codename SATURDAY, to help others to escape. In partnership with the underground resistance in Holland, Belgium and France he organised the repatriation of many Allied aircrew, soldiers and sailors from enemy occupied Europe.

He will be especially remembered for his organisation of escape routes for Airborne Forces trapped behind enemy lines following the battle of Arnhem in 1944. Subsequently he served indictments on Nazi leaders at the Nuremberg War Trials.

As a politician – Airey Neave was the Conservative Member of Parliament for Abingdon from 1953 to 1979.

In 1973 he masterminded the election for Margaret Thatcher to the leadership of the Conservative party. His services as shadow Secretary for Northern Ireland led to his assassination within the precincts of the Houses of Parliament on 30th March 1979. (By the INLA)

His career, both in military service and in politics was notable for his constant courage, for his ability to assess risk and act decisively, and for a determined and uncompromising opposition to tyranny.

He is remembered here by his family and friends