Keith Mills (Royal Marines officer) facts for kids

Captain Keith Paul Mills, born in June 1959, is a retired officer from the British Royal Marines. He is well-known for leading the defense of South Georgia when it was invaded by Argentina in 1982. For his bravery, he received the Distinguished Service Cross.

Military Service and Bravery

The Falklands War

In April 1982, Captain Mills was a Lieutenant in charge of a small group of 22 Royal Marines on South Georgia. On April 3, 1982, he received a message telling him to offer only a small amount of resistance if Argentine forces attacked. However, Lieutenant Mills and his team were determined to defend the island strongly.

The Battle of Grytviken

On April 3, 1982, the Battle of Grytviken took place. Lieutenant Mills' small group of Royal Marines fought bravely against the Argentine forces. They managed to damage the Argentine ship ARA Guerrico with an anti-tank round and many shots from their small weapons. They also shot down an Argentine Puma helicopter.

During this two-hour battle, the Royal Marines showed great courage. They caused losses for the Argentine side, while only one British Marine was wounded. The strong defense at Grytviken stopped Argentina from taking over the entire island. This meant that 15 other Britons on different parts of the island, like Bird Island and St. Andrews Bay, remained free from Argentine control.

After the War

After the Falklands War, Lieutenant Mills and his Marines were seen as heroes in Britain. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his leadership in defending South Georgia. He continued to serve in the Royal Marines, being promoted to Captain in 1989. He retired from military service in 1996.

Legacy

Captain Keith Mills' brave actions during the Battle of Grytviken are remembered. A place called Mills Peak on South Georgia is named in his honor.