Edward "Tug" Wilson facts for kids

Edward "Tug" Wilson (1921-2009) was a brave British colonel. He is famous for starting the Abu Dhabi Defense Force. He was also a very close friend of Sheikh Zayed, who was the ruler of the United Arab Emirates.

Edward Wilson's Early Life

Edward Bearby Wilson was born on January 18, 1921. His hometown was West Hartlepool, Yorkshire in England. "Tug" was a special nickname given to him. He went to Constantine College to study. In 1945, he trained at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This is a famous place where army officers learn their skills. While there, he became a wireless operator. He also loved playing sports like rugby and cricket.

Military Career and Achievements

Edward Wilson started his army career in the Worcestershire Regiment. Later, he joined the 1st Battalion of the British Army of the Rhine. He also worked with the 2nd Division Signal Regiment. He was part of important events like the Berlin airlift. This was when planes flew supplies into Berlin. He also served during the Malayan Emergency.

He then went to Korea. In 1952, he moved to Hara Mura, Japan. Here, he taught British soldiers at the Battle School. During one training session, a grenade exploded. He was hurt in the shoulder but kept teaching.

He became a Major in the army. In 1961, he took charge of a group called the Trucial Oman Scouts. They were working near the Buraimi Oasis, Al Ain. It was during this time that he became great friends with Sheikh Zayed. Sheikh Zayed later became the ruler of the United Arab Emirates. Colonel Wilson then helped create the Abu Dhabi Defense Force. He was the leader of this new force until 1968.

Later Life and Retirement

Colonel Wilson left Abu Dhabi in 1969. He then became a teacher at the Old Royal Naval College. After that, he taught at the Staff College, Camberley. He officially retired from the Army in 1971.

After retiring, he started a trout fish farm. Later, Sheikh Zayed invited him back to Abu Dhabi. Colonel Wilson then managed the royal stables for the Sheikh. He continued this work until Sheikh Zayed passed away. In 1990, he took part in the London To Peking Motor Challenge, a long car race. He was also given the special Abu Dhabi Award for his service. Edward "Tug" Wilson died on January 2, 2009.