Falklands Commander John Woodward Dies At 81

Admiral Sir John "Sandy" Woodward - Commander of the Royal Navy Task Force that retook the Falklands in 1982 - has died aged 81.

He reportedly died after a long illness.

The Prime Minister hailed the "heroic command" of the Falklands Task Force leader, describing him as a "truly courageous and decisive leader".

David Cameron said: "We are indebted to him for his many years of service and the vital role he played to ensure that the people of the Falkland Islands can still today live in peace and freedom."

The Defence Secretary added: "Admiral Woodward served his country with distinction throughout his career, but he will be best remembered by many as the Navy's Fighting Admiral after he led the Royal Navy Task Force, sent by Margaret Thatcher, to re-take the Falkland Islands in 1982."

Philip Hammond said following this "magnificent achievement", he served as the Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff and went on before retirement to be the Flag Aide-de Camp to the Queen.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir George Zambellas said Admiral Woodward would always be remembered for his "powerful and clear command" during the Falklands takeover.

He said: "Undaunted by the challenge of fighting a capable enemy over 8,000 miles from the UK, in the most demanding and extreme of weather conditions, and against uncertain odds, Admiral Woodward's inspirational leadership and tactical acumen, meshing the realities of the higher political command at home with the raw and violent fight at sea, was a major factor in shaping the success of the British forces in the South Atlantic.

"Highly regarded and widely respected within the military, he will be sorely missed and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

Admiral Woodward was born in Penzance, Cornwall, on May 1, 1932, according to the Who's Who annual.

He went on to write a memoir of his time as the Falklands Task Force commander titled One Hundred Days.

Then-prime minister Baroness Thatcher ordered the military operation in reaction to the Argentinian invasion in April 1982.

Ten weeks later the Argentinian forces surrendered but only after 255 British servicemen had been killed.

More than 600 Argentinians and three islanders also lost their lives.