What happened to Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne Rorkes Drift
Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne, was the senior NCO at the Battle of Rorke's Drift during the Zulu War of 1879.
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Superbly played by actor, Nigel Green, in the 1964 film "Zulu", many have wondered why he was never awarded a Victoria Cross when 11 others were.
This is the story of what happened to Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne after Rorkes Drift.
He was actually awarded Britain's second highest military medal (at the time), the Distinguished Conduct Medal and ultimately rose from the ranks to become an officer.
His military career continued all the way to the First World War, where he was promoted to the rank of Lt. Colonel.
Frank Bourne, the last surviving defender of Rorke's Drift died in 1945, one day after the Germans surrendered.
Watch my video about the Battle of Rorke's Drift:
• The Battle of Rorke's ...
What happened to the men who did win Victoria Crosses at Rorke's Drift?
• What Happened to the V...
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Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:30 Zulu
1:00 CS Bourne in Zulu
3:02 The Real CS Bourne
5:30 Zulu War
6:33 Battle of Rorke's Drift
7:57 Why No VC?
9:28 Later Career
10:56 Retirement & WW1
12:20 Lost BBC Interview
13:52 What next?
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My name is Chris Green ("The History Chap") and I am on a mission to share the amazing history of Britain so that we can appreciate where we have come from and why we are here.
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"Mr Witt Sir. Be quiet now will you, there's a good Gentleman; You'll upset the Lads"
Oh, I had forgotten that one - great shout!
Thanks, my exact thought, immediately. I was about to to watch the film(Again) just to be certain of the quote!
That was going to be my first choice! So I went with another favorite.
The gentleman has a bottle
"Say sir, officer on parade."
I served in the U.S. Marines as a helicopter gunship pilot through two tours in Vietnam. I have read all the accounts I could find of the Battle of Rorke's Drift, starting with the account in "Our Empire Story" when I was a boy of twelve. And, I have watched the movie "Zulu" multiple times. I have always thought that Rorke's Drift was the best example of what properly led soldiers can do, even in the worst of battlefield conditions. From the accounts I have read, and from the movie, I think Color Sgt. Bourne epitomized everything that a non-commissioned officer should be. A truly magnificent soldier!
Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Nice to listen to your comments
I was in Fllujah in 06,from the look of the place I believe the Marines fought a battle as intense in these day as the British fought at Rourkes Drift,you have to appreciate men of such courage and fortitude,I thank them all.
Hougoumont and LA Haye Sainte ... 18 June 1815
Never mention the movie Zulu to my wife, it might have to do with my Kit hanging in “my room” and the mutton chops that I grew after I retired from the U.S. Army.
29 years service, enlisted for 19 years and an officer for 10. Colour Sergeant Bourne is the epitome of the professional Soldier and NCO. Thank you for the video; his like should never be forgotten.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts
9
I am a retired U.S. Army officer. I always held that Colour Sergeant Bourne was the ideal example of what an NCO should be. I'm glad to finally know the "rest of the story".
Eric, I am so glad that you enjoyed. Thanks.
Hi Eric, speaking of Exemplary Soldiering do you know the story of the HMS (I've seen it as RMS too) Birkenhead? Talk about 'Standing Fast'! It's Grim, but it set the unwritten maritime law of Women and Children First. Kipling called it 'The Birkenhead Drill'. Apparently the Kaiser of Germany instructed this standard of soldiering was to be expected of his own soldiers! Apologies if you do know the story 😶
Yes he commanded respect without having to yell at his men or use abusive language. 😁
@@itsnotrightyouknow get respected thru acts outside of duty Therefore respect will be present when ur doing duty
exactly. even in the movie he isn't heroic so much as professional. the one who keeps the men focused on their jobs
I remember as a young child, my father took my two brothers to see Zulu, he felt it was not a film for a young girl. Two weeks later my grandfather took me along with him to see it. I can’t count the number of times I have watched over the years since.
I’m a bit like that
My Dad took me to see it when I was quite small, to this day it is still my favourite movie.
I'm trying to interest my daughter (8 yrs old) to watch Zulu. I've got her intrigued by the premise of the story (150 British redcoats against 4000 Zulu warriors), but I worry that she might find it slow. So knowing you found it interesting gives me... encouragement!
My dad had it on video cassette so it became one of my most watched film, probably of all time since I rarely rewatch a film these days.
Died in1945 just after the war incase we called him back into service a true hero for his country lest we forget
He totally epitomises being British. What a brave nice man. We could do with him now and many more like him. I salute you sir.
Glad you enjoyed my video.
The UNBELIEVABLE short-sightedness of the BBC never fails to absolutely astound me!!!.....
Those fools at the bbc didn’t think it important enough to preserve, that would have been a wonderful listen
Yes Indeed, I agree, especially in their hiring practices, top to bottom!
Thanks for your comment
You've got to remember, until "Zulu" came out there was very little interest in the battle, the only reason you're here to complain is because of a movie and well reseatched youtube video- not trying to be insulting by the way.
Nigel Green was so memorable in ' Zulu ', his strength and leadership mixed perfectly with his compassion and benevolence - just unforgettable 👏
Thanks for taking the time to comment
@@TheHistoryChapthanks for taking the time to reply!
He always reminds me of a policeman that we had in Nottingham in the 1960s and 70s Tug Willson , i can see him now standing on the council House steps , he was a huge copper , ex-Grenadiar Guard and 6' 8" tall .
"Stay where you are, Hook!" Bourne was always my favorite character in the film, and Nigel Green one of my favorite British actors! Thank you for this.
My absolute pleasure. Thanks for watching.
During rollcall, “Hitch…Hitch I saw you, you’re alive.” And Hitch’s response, “Oh, thank you very much.” Classic
This is the scene where Bourne is calling the roll after the battle, for my money one of the finest scenes, which for some reason never appears in KZhead clips of the film. As Bourne calls out the names of soldiers and starts to find ones that don't answer, and so are probably dead, you can see and hear him biting back the emotion and just managing to keep his voice calm. At each name, he remembers a human being, someone he probably shouted at, put on a charge, despaired of ever making him a soldier, and now he's dead, but had risen to the challenge and done his duty. Fantastic performance by Nigel Green.
Lol! You beat me to it.
My other favorite is when he recites " the Soldier's Psalm" from the bible. God bless him and the rest of the boys.
My favorite line out of the whole movie.
It's a crying shame that recording was binned. To hear the voice of a Victorian soldier, and one who fought in such an incredible action at that, would be incredible.
of course the BBC binned it: how dare we take pride in our own history or culture.
@@markiobook8639 agree with your comment.
I think its incredible that from fighting at Rorke's Drift 19C to living one after the end of WW2 1945 amazing longevity.
@@theoldgreymare703 indeed it's almost as if God wanted to keep him alive long enough to see good triumph over evil.
it would be amazing to hear.
What a life Frank Bourne had. From most humble beginnings, through the expansion of the Empire, to a high rank in the Army and to even live to see VE Day. Somehow, his life seems to encapsulate Britain at its greatest. The Nation sorely needs men of his calibre now. May Lieutenant-Colonel Bourne have achieved eternal rest. And thank you for your research and video.
Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching
Hard times makes hard men. Hard men make soft times...we are in those soft times. Our political elites in the Western world despise our countries and our peoples. We need men like LtCol Bourne today...sadly we have very few...
@@rvail136True. "Zulu" was on Channel 5 a few days ago. I hope others who were inspired by this video were able to catch it.
@@rvail136 He was of his time, and a splendid professional soldier who did his duty and more. I've always loved watching the film Zulu, and saw it on first release as a 10 year old in 1964. But times do change, and although we always have to be ready to combat threats from less enlightened sources, as current events show, we also need as a species to progress away from wars and conquest. We live on a Pale Blue Dot (per Carl Sagan) in a vast universe. It will take a long time, but that must be our goal, and it is an admirable one.
Not everyone thinks as you. Yes we must always plan for peace, but we must never be complacent and should always be prepared for war. Somebody else may start it. We must be prepared to finish it!🙏
In the summer of 1984, at the age of 10, I watched "Zulu" so many times that I memorized the entire script. My friends and I would recreate the battle in our backyards in Virginia with our fences as the breastworks. The next summer dad brought home "Zulu Dawn" on VHS and I almost melted with excitement. Several years later I saw "Khartourm" and was no less enthralled. The Victorian Empire contributed so much to my childhood, lol.
Jerry, three great films.
LOL :) I never had QUITE those memories but the man who was my next door neighbour as a kid died recently, and it's both wierd, and strangfely hard :(
And for which my nation is constantly attacked by the same enemies today! History is being rewritten by the same vermin too!
Jerry I watch all 3 of them again and again, and as a British Army Veteran it makes me swell with pride to know I followed in the footsteps of heroes. The most beautiful sight in the world is the British flag flying 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 high.
I was about the same age when i watched it for the first time, but several years earlier. Sadly for me the reason i remember it so well is i had my first migraine while watching it, with blurred vision, much vomitting and a pounding headache from hell!
My first CSM, a Coldstream guardsman from Yorkshire reminded me of C/sgt Bourne from the first day I met him as a young recruit in 1976. A no- nonsense, brick shithouse of a man he exemplified professionalism, patience and honesty. I would have numerous CSM's in the following 25 years but he was the only one whom I never heard swear or show anger. I can still hear him say, "You're like a ruddy teddy bear lad", when I fecked up on the parade square. Good man.
We've all known one of those, I am sure. I was lucky to know a couple of them, whom I admire to this day.
Davy, thanks for sharing your experiences.
Perhaps a bit silly,but I was compelled to salute my phone screen when I saw his picture at the end. Colonel J.C. Eaton US Army Ret.
@@jameseaton4593 Nothing silly about respecting a fellow warrior brother.
@@davymckeown4577 Then saulte the Zulus.
I saw Zulu when a little boy in Bath, wonderful film...I now am 68...thank you for the memories
My pleasure. Thanks for watching my video too.
Being a Welsh teenager at the time of course I saw the film in the cinema (and promptly fell in love with Stanley Baker). Now I am a senior citizen of 70 and the movie still thrills me.Thank you so much for adding all this extra information.
My pleasure. Best wishes, Chris
35 years service absolutely amazing man ,deserves all respect and his legendary status 🇬🇧
He does indeed. A very humble man too.
Fascinating "The rest of the story". What's really remarkable is he climbed up the ranks from private to Lt. Colonel earning every promotion he got.
@@michaelhurlbut4830 I'll tell you a more modern story with a big feat ,that happened with my brother in law which was quite good ,he started as a private and got as high as warrant officer 1 I'm not an army person so not sure ,all I know is my sister said some soldiers said he was gods equivalent lol ,served 23 years and came out with a big pension .
go to every small village in england. they have statues with names of the dead on markers. the sergeant had men he could have confidence in that’s why some of them are names on markers. people pay little regard for them. as to his opposition they fought and lost coming out alive is all that counts brave men all
A war criminal. Do you like nazi's aswell
One of my favourite scenes in this superb classic is when colour sergeant politely asks the drunk preacher, played by Jack Hawkins, to remain quiet as he's upsetting the lads.
Wonderful moment. He does it so calmly but with such authority.
‘Do that tunic button up boy’. Classic line. It’s all about absolute discipline.
Classic line indeed
As a raw recruit in the Australian Army, this movie was shown to us all as part of our basic training
Thanks for sharing.
I always thought this and Porkchop Hill should be used as instructional videos when I was in ROTC in the 80s. Since then adding maybe Blackhawk Down.
So many examples of Defensive battles, Maybe We should study the Maori Wars in NZ, they got a treaty & taught the English Trench warfare @@jefferydraper4019
Im a retired Aussie Infantry Sergeant Major ( Warrant Officer), who also commissioned to Captain at the tail end of my career and I remember fondly when I was joining the Army as a young bloke the movie Zulu was one of the recruiting movies. It was a favorite. And you are bloody right because Colour Sergeant Bourne was a fine example indeed. I love the history of this era and the great traditions of the British Infantry, a lot of which us Aussies inherited as well. Thanks for the great video's mate !
The Aussies are first class soldiers and greatly respected in British military circles. Our long association with Australia is a source of immense pride- we know who our real friends are, along with the Kiwis and Canadians.
@@liverpoolscottish6430 Thanks for a very warm reply , rest assured the respect and admiration is returned as well. I have very fond memory's of serving and training with squaddies from the most excellent Irish Guards, Scots Guards and the blokes from 4/5 CDO. Once again the present political and world situation means that we all need to stick together again, the British, US, Canadian, NZ and Australian friendship and alliances must be reinforced and made stronger because you and I know that we are under attack once again by the forces that want to see our way of life and cultures destroyed. If we do we will beat the bastards ! Yours Aye !
@@liverpoolscottish6430 I totally Agree with you 💯% our Commonwealth is something to be proud of, from a Born and Bred Scouser 👍.
The Aussies certainly did inherit them, and from what I read as a kid til my sixties, have definately proved it over the years. Loved meeting Aussies on their travels in Scotland when I was a youngster, they always cracked me up,great sense of fun !
Saw this at Kapooka 1977 Basic training. Great movie.
When he reads the roll call at the end, always bring a tear to the eye.
its, a real memory. far to many of us have in this day and age..
This scene contains my favorite CS Bourne line: (After someone cracks wise) "No comedians please!".
Another C/Sgt Bourne line from this scene after the "No comedians please - Say SIR; Officer on parade"
Also the funny "Hitch, Hitch, I've seen you you're not dead" .... "aren't I?
Thanks for sharing that thought from the film.
Men like Frank Bourne are the reason I am proud to be British. Great video
Glad you enjoyed it.
Was proud !
A Country of 1st class soldiers , fighters and people ! 👏 😊
I have always loved the film "Zulu" and of course Colour Sergeant Bourne's portrayal, but the description of his real life given here was far more fascinating! This was a great video.
What a great story! I’m so happy to hear that the Color Sergeant was well recognized after the battle, and rose to such great heights later in his career! What a man! You are right! One of the perfect examples of a Victorian British Soldier!
Now that was a fantastic story. He was even a much bigger character in history than they made him out to be in the film.
I was thinking the same thing. A Sharpe’s Rifles type of character. Only in real life. Steady solid character who gave as needed when needed then went home to his family. About as British as possible. Did His Duty so to speak.
Indeed. Shame he didn't have his own film, but there you go.
As a recruit at Kapooka we had to watch "ZULU" as it shows what discipline does then later as a recruit instructor myself I watched it with every recruit course we did. 13 of them!
Interesting. Thanks for sharing
Thats a great story! Join the army and get to watch movies for free
Nothing but respect for all of those men, incredible bravery.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Great story, thank you, my favourite saying by Colour Sergeant Bourne was "Now sir, be a good gentleman and be quiet, you're upsetting the lads." The type of conversation in Victorian times between someone from a lower working class background to somebody from the middle classes i.e. a man of the cloth, a vicar.
Color Sgt Bourne epitomizes the professional NCO that is the back bone of every army. His reading and writing for his men, is real part leadership. It generates trust. True leadership isn't based on screaming it is based on trust.
How true.
You are absolutely correct and that saw applies at every level of command. Shouting in recruit school and on parade is one thing; never out on the front or with your men
I spent a great deal of my working life and management and supervisory positions. One of the things I did, you could call it my trademark, but I had an issue with an employee I never had a public discussion with the employee. I would get a conference room pull the employee in there and discuss what happened and what could have been different. And I always try to end that counseling moment with a positive note. It was a basic rule I had with my bosses if there was a problem with someone on my team they were to let me know and I would handle any discipline. I've never believed in running around hunting for whose fault things are. What a mistake is made about 80% of the time it's because of lack of understanding or training. An employee gets put in a position to fail, then they get yelled at for it. Well why don't we just stand him up against the wall and execute them while we're at it. Essentially this is how I would solve a mistake. Fix the mistake. Reverse engineer the mistake. This will give you who committed the mistake but it also give you an idea of what's going on at the moment. Once you reverse engineer the mistake you analyze it to see if there was a failure strictly by the employee or was he doing something he wasn't trying to do or did not understand properly. Good training can't be replaced. Companies with high turnover rates never developed culture beyond let's get the hell out of here. You want to keep your employees so you develop a culture of teamwork and the employees investing in what's going on in the company. Well there's my soapbox moment. Doing things basically this way never got me chewed out.
@@JohnRodriguesPhotographer we used to call it TQM the popular word now is Human Resource Management which infuriates me as since when was a person, like a tap washer or a printer, while the word is ostentatious the best one now is stakeholders. Everyone has a share in organisation output on a positive stage. But quite simply it is recognising strengths and weaknesses and addressing same, setting an example and treating all as humans with respect and care and encouraging. Correct errors both job and personal yes that is team building but never derogate or abuse
Many thanks for taking the time to comment.
That was an excellent presentation. I can still vividly remember watching this movie as an 8 year old in 1964. The sound of what we thought was that of a distant train in the hills, turning out to be the Zulus terrified me. It's funny how these things stick in my memory. Watching it again in years later, impressed upon me the bravery of the soldiers against such overwhelming numbers. It righfully deserves it's place in our military history.
Paul, I remember being terrified of that distant train sound too!
Button up that tunic man...don't you know where you are?
Beautifully told story, Chris. I love the fact that "The Kid" was 5 foot 3. His character, of course, was sky-high. Colour Sergeant Bourne lived and served in a time when duty really was valued. His story is inspiring. Thank you.
Thanks for your comments & for watching my video
Thanks for that one Chris. I remember that the BBC loved to show Zulu every Christmas time and my dad wouldn't have missed it for the world. My favourite line from the film was when Colour Sergeant Bourne announces the arrival of the Zulus on the crest of the hill," Zulus sir, thousands of 'em." He barely bats an eyelid. There's something about the Tommy Atkins understatement which just defines the, "ere we go again " attitude of the British soldier.
Rob, thanks for sharing. Bank holidays not the same without the compulsory showing of Zulu :)
I always thought 'The Great Escape' was the Christmass movie. (Edited: In the UK although I grew up in Australia).
In NZ it was always Die Hard
Yea every Christmas, I remember 👍
That’s phassands of em.
5' 3" Sgt Bourne reminds me a bit of Audie Muphy, as he too was short at 5' 5", but both were large in performing deeds of valor. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog that matters.
Yeah ..... Keep telling your wife that old one eh ? 😜
@@johnbowkett80 nah. Tell the Zulu and German's that, tho lol.
@@johnbowkett80, how about he just keeps telling your wife that, eh?
Nice comment. Thanks for posting.
Hardest basta#d i ever knew was 5 foot one,a real piece of work,gentleman though, despised bullys.
This is such a wonderful story. Zulu has been one of my favourite films. I watched it first with my father a WWII veteran when I was 8 or 9 years old. Thanks for making this video. Simply amazing.
Glad you enjoyed.
This definitely proves the old adage that it's not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog that counts. I'm 5'3", so this particularly hits home. I loved the character of Color Sergeant Bourne in the movie; it turns out the truth is even better. RIP Lt. Col Bourne.
So often have I thought about that action,and wondered about the Colour Sergeant. Really glad he was decorated and his bravery recognised. Never forgotten the "Because we're 'ere,lad." I am also glad the film took the opportunity to praise the bravery of the Zulus who were fighting for their land. Even Winston Churchill asked about them one day. I recall the noise when the Zulus were approaching,as if a train were coming,the spears beating on the shields. To the few men there,that sound must have been terrifying,as they were in a land so strange and alien and hostile,with no hope of rescue or relief. Victoria Crosses were definitely earned that day.
Part of the move was (logically) filmed in South Africa. I have read that the South Africans tried to impose Apartheid style restrictions on the production... and that Stanley Bakers reaction was to threaten to shut down and move to another country to film... I had the great priviledge to visit both Rorkes Drift and Isandhlwana a few years ago... the memorials to BOTH sides are impressive. Our guide at Isandhlwana..a Zulu himself, gave a wonderful and balanced account of the conflict.
Churchill wasn't involved in the Zulu war.....Served in Sudan....Boer war n WW1 but not Zulu war of 1879...He would have been a young boy im sure...Born in 1874 i think.....
@@richardloring7545 Always my belief that he mentioned them in Parliament one day,commenting on their extraordinarily bravery. He was never involved with them himself.
I'm into my 70's now and have watched Zulu many times, I have the film on DVD and it sits with others which I consdider all time greats to be viewed as and when. Zulu is one of those films which reflects the social distinctions and attitudes of the time, the bravery and unswerving loyalty to the flag of the British Tommy. When Ivor Emmanuel the Welsh tenor starts and then leads his comrades with Men of Harlech I get a tear in my eye and a lump in my throat every single time, guaranteed.
Same here.
A great action film. I saw it many times over the years
Thanks for taking the time to comment. Zulu is still one of my all time favourites.
Dear Barry and Mr. history Chap, I too have watched Zulu many times and it is still amongst my favourites. I watched it many times during the 60's and the 70's. When I coerced my kids to watch the movie we noticed that the modern versions have been redacted. I remember Michal Cain, Bromhead, telling Stanley Baker, Chard, Fancy the odds of being born an Englishman and being an officer in HM's army... These words have now disappeared.
Sgt Bourne was full of well deserved praise for the braves he fought, never being so churlish to sully their name, but being humble enough to acknowledge his own battalions outstanding exemplars of British soldierly courage. As a verifiable non racist, a class hero, a defender and supporter of the underclasses (illiterate young men)- we should have a fine bronze statue of Clr Sgt Bourne on London pride of place at Marble Arch. A soldier's soldier, a hero's hero a gallant and chivalrous soldier and a gentleman's gentleman he was all.
My favorite quote was from Colour Sergeant Bourne; "The sentries report Zulus to the southwest... Thousands of 'em." What a chilling deliver of that line.
he delivered that line so well.
Stunning landscape around Rorkes Drift and Spieon Kop.
I visited Rorkes Drift in 1996. Standing there and remembering the battle, sent shivers thro' me.
Is that because you were thinking of the 500 Zulu who died defending their country?
@@vectravi2008 Snide comment.
@@suegray8507 why would you say that?
@@suegray8507 Perhaps Barry experienced those shivers because he was wondering what those British soldiers were doing so many thousands of miles from home fighting to take the land from the Zulu people against their will? If the situation was reversed the British would call the Zulu terrorists. So, why did Barry experience those shivers?
@@vectravi2008 the WOKE have arrived. Let's all pray for forgiveness shall we
I first saw Zulu when I was 12. Repeated viewings followed over the years. Now own a blu ray disc. The fact I instantly clicked upon you video shows how much the film & the greater story of Rorke’s Drift has become ingrained into my memory.
Its an incredible movie, would highly recommend history buffs video on the movie if you have not seen that too
A amazing story and a amazing job by Nigel Green. Incredible movie. I saw it when it first came out. Some many amazing scenes. This movie is timeless.
Timeless indeed.
I have watched Zulu many times it's a firm favourite, and admired Colour Sergeant Bourne as an excellent NCO. It was good to learn that the man so well portrayed, I thought, by Nigel Green, was as portrayed of the best type of soldier with firmness but fairness toward the men under him who's respect he had. My Father was an RSM in the Royal Artillery serving during the second World War.
I’m glad you enjoyed this video and thanks for taking the time to share about your father too
I have to agree that Nigel Green's performance made him one of the highlights of the movie, and I've been laboring under the belief that the real Coulor Sergeant Bourne was awarded the Cross. It's so interesting to hear how he was actually rewarded for his invaluable role in that action, and how he felt about the Zulu warriors who faced the British soldiers at Rourke's Drift. Bourne had a distinguished and inspiring career, and this video was beautifully put together. Excellent work!
Glad you enjoyed it
We watched Zulu in my high school english class. CSGT Bourne as shown in Zulu was my exemplar for leadership in many facets including volunteer emergency services.
@@malalexander3515 He was worthy of emulation. Always relatively collected and maintained a cool head, but most importantly, he showed a degree of tolerance and consideration for the men under his command. That's the sort of thing that wins respect without diminishing discipline or threatening morale. Whether in the military or a civilian occupation, leadership like that is essential.
I agree with all the comments. Total masterpiece of film.
Brilliantly presented, I really enjoyed the story of Frank Bourne an amazing and courageous soldier, who achieved so much in his long life. I joined the army aged 15 years in 1960 and met many men who reminded me of Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne, their manner and their bearing. Many of those I knew had served during WWII and were coming to end of their service and in some ways laid the blueprint of how we, in later service, would conduct ourselves. I am now a retired British Army Officer.
Charlie, thank you your sharing your memories and comparisons of the NCO's you met.
I joined (also 15 yrs old) in '66 and was thinking exactly the same thought. I came across a very diminutive S/Sgt in the '70's who fits this description to a T. We still chat from time to time on the phone. Steady as a rock, quietly spoken, logical to a fault, never flustered, fit as a butcher's dog and he loved those under his wings like his own sons. Boot up the arse and arms round the shoulder in equal measure. There were others I admired for a variety of reasons but this one man is the one most likely to fill Bourne's boots.
Thanks for this great presentation on CSGT Bourne. First seen by me in a high school english class, while I was also in the school's cadet unit. He is the epitome of the Senior NCO I later encountered in my Australian Army Reserve service, and the type of SNCO I wanted to be when I attained the rank of Sergeant. The calm, succinct voice of authority. In later times I served as a volunteer fire service officer for 30 years, where this calm succinct voice of authority I believe was key in leading firefighters and assisting worried fire victims. I'm not sure I reached Bourne's standards and of course I didn't have to bayonet a bush fire! On 19th December 2019 I and my crew faced near death during a severe bush fire overrun. The calm succinct voice of authority and firefighters who never once flinched servived the day.
Mal, thanks so much for taking the time to share your story.
Frank Bourne might have been 5foot3inches tall, but there was a hell of a lot of soldier in him. An excellent example of duty in Frank Bourne. 🇬🇧
Thanks for posting.
I'm sorry ,, this bloke was not 5ft 3" He was 10 ft tall , I guess one could say , he was a Soldiers Soldier . I joined the Australian Army in 1974 , and Zulu was the movie shown to all recruits , Discipline & Courage are just 2 things that make a SOLDIER .. He does deserve the VC. I think he lead by example .. aussie bob..🥇🥇🥇🍻🍻
Yep, stature mate, isn't in the height but the size of the man. Adelaideian Aussie.
I went through Kapooka 1982. Still showed Zulu then.
He was actually 5'6". Look up the documentary on him, by his Grandson. Much more factual info than here. Cheers.
@@cavman7 Went through in 1981, they showed Zulu the night before the Challenge.
I had the pleasure and fortune to live in Australia between 1994 and 2005 and I will always remember Australia and Australians with affection. I was (and still am) very fond of military history and when in Australia I learned a lot about the "diggers" and their fantastic deeds on the battlefield. You have a lot to be proud of. Best wishes from Argentina. "Lest We Forget!"
The man is a legend and hero and great to know that he wasn't killed in action and had a long life
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
He had luck on his side unlike the 500 or so Zulu who died defending their country.
I love all your videos. This particular one is something I've always wondered about. Thank you for all your effort in uploading all this amazing history 👏
My pleasure. Thanks for watching
The quote you give is my fave: Because we're here, lad. Thanks for sharing what became of him. He had perfect discipline.
It’s one of my favourites too
I saw this movie in the theater in the United States Army base at Munich. It has been a favorite of mine ever since then. I know that historically is not entirely what you would call accurate. I think it does portray the discipline of the British army during its colonial empire building times very accurately. As far as why didn't they just leave? They wouldn't be able out run the Zulus. The cast in the movie I thought it was excellent. I just may have to go back and watch it for the 9 millionth time! It is a part of my collection
Mine too, if you have got A bridge too far, Kelly's heroes and a Fist full of dollars then I might invite myself and bring some 🍿
I agree totally!
@@GrenvilleP710 Invasion may never have been part of the plan but that's what happened. on 11 January 1879, without authorisation from the British Government, Lord Chelmsford crossed the Buffalo River at Rorke's Drift and invaded Zulu Natal.
The rapid fire at the movie's crescendo still gives me chills. This was a feature the British Army of the time drilled to death. This one point at least was done fantastically in the movie.
I think when you see it once you are hooked...well, I was!
This gave me goosebumps. A true British hero.
Glad you enjoyed.
Great video Chris, well researched and presented. You certainly highlight the courage and bravery of the British forces down through the ages. Fantastic!
Colin, many thanks for your kind words.
It's hard to have a 'favorite' quote, but I always got a kick out of, "Aaall right, no one told you to stop working". Truly the epitome of what being an NCO is all about.
Thanks for watching my video
Honestly, when I first watched this movie decades ago, I was amazed at the courage and leadership that brought about the survival of these soldiers at Rorke's Drift. Two decades later I found this movie on DVD and immediately purchased it. This is a once a year "must watch" movie that reminds me of the courage of men and to bring my life's little problems back into perspective. GOD Bless them all, Amen.
I was at school in Epsom and at the end of the sixties we put a drama on stage and someone managed to get some of the uniforms for the show from Stanley Baker who lived in Epsom and was a neighbor. of the person who got them for us to use. The uniforms still had makeup in the collars and were so amazing to have to wear. I love the film Zulu and the wonderful performances given by all the actors. A great British film remembering truly brave men.
Ditto ⌛
It's a pity the Zulu fighters didn't have guns. Then the fight might have been fair. But like we're seeing in Ukraine, invaders can only ever be the baddies.
@@toi_techno The film portrays Zulus firing down on the missionary station from a hillside. Weren’t they using rifles taken from dead soldiers at Isandlwana?
@@northlincsfox243 Yes they were.
Excellent video! You have a gift to bring back to life events and people of the past. I will never forget watching "Zulu" when I was 10 years old in 1969. Although born and bred in Argentina and without a drop of British blood (I am of Italian descent) I remember how I cheered the red coats on. I am 63 years old now and I see with bitterness and anger how white men today (and particularly the British) are "ashamed" of the heroic deeds of their ancestors and apologize for everything you can imagine. We Europeans have nothing to apologize for. Greetings from Buenos Aires.
Shut up
Hi Ars, excellent post if I may say so. You really hit the nail on the head about having nothing to be ashamed of. Makes me sick to the core to listen to the apologists in this day and age.
@@ianwade8668 Hello Wade and thank you for your kind words. The lack of backbone of so many of our people is infuriating. Another thing that gets me is to see Europeans insulting and attacking each other driven by a narrow-minded and idiotic chauvinism. These idiots are happy to fight over old wars when our countries and cultural heritage are been destroyed. We are all part of a great and wonderful family which produced a magnificent civilization Have a nice day.
@@ianwade8668 The British people are being taxed and being made to pay for every scum of the earth person to live for nothing in this country.
Well said Sir
Being a fan of the movie and an amateur military historian I have often wondered what had become of Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne. Thank you for the information. It was entertaining and informative.
Glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching
His real life was more interesting than I thought possible.
Thanks for this video! Being born in 65 I didn’t see this until I saw it on tv in the 70’s and was completely hooked! I later became an infantry captain in the USAR. I look forward to seeing the stories on the other defenders!
Apologies for my ignorance but what is ÜSAR"? No offence intended as I'm Australian,
Glad you enjoyed.
In the film, the two commissioned officers are often excited and angry but Colour Sergeant Bourne never loses his composure. Even during his bayonet fight, one of the most dramatic moments in a film with many such moments, he is in complete control. Compare his movements and facial expression with that of the young Zulu warrior he is fighting. His greater skill and self-confidence, the result of years of training and combat experience, are obvious. Like the sword fight near the beginning of the Seven Samurai, there is never any doubt about who will win.
Thanks for posting. Of course the irony between the film and real life was that in the battle it was Bourne who was the youngster and the Zulus were middle aged men
years of experience he was just 25 years old not much experience if you ask me, but the character of the man made the difference, he was calm, in control, focus, and did not panic in front of danger now that's what makes a good soldier.
Private Hook was actually a good soldier, not like he is shown in the movie.
The Zulu stands among the greatest warriors of history and even they were wary of the redcoats bayonets they developed a technique of 2 against 1 one drawing an attack while the other finished em off
His real story, especially life after the Boer war, is even more impressive and inspiring
I hope you enjoyed the video.
Outstanding! Thank you so much. What a distinguished career from a distinguished gentleman.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Thank you, that was great, you have won my subscription sir, I look forward to many more of your podcasts, take care.
Thanks for your support
The fools that contemplated and started the Zulu war are more or less forgotten, but the VC's and soldiers like Frank Bourne are among those we remember and are most proud. I see no paradox in revering our squadies and their NCO's, while reviling the Lords and Dukes who put them in harms way. One of the most fascinating days I have ever spent, was at Isandlwana and Rorke's drift, with a bunch of ZA friends and a proper historical guide. That poor man had to keep talking all day, we asked so many questions. A truly memorable day I shall never forget.
Fools they were indeed!
They were no fools: The Zulus were ruthless, cruel killers who preyed brutally on neighbouring tribes and neded stopping. Read the history!
The British government had no wish for a Zulu war and neither had the Zulus. According to the excellent book I read (too long ago to remember the name) it was a local British official who conjured up an excuse to go to war before the British government could stop him.
Even with just 5'3" I can imagine the real Colour Sergeant Bourne to have been a "towering" presence on the battlegrounds of Rourke's Drift that day! I was very glad to hear that he went on to have an excellent career in the British army and even lived to witness VE Day in Britain in May 1945. What a life, and gladly a far better one than many of the VC holders from Rourke's Drift experienced.
Thanks for your support.
I have known a few men who, while on the short side, were perceived as being far taller than they actually were. In fact, one in particular was much shorter than me, but I often thought he was taller. This was primarily due to their attitude, demeanor and bearing.
Audie Murphy was only 5 foot 6 inches tall.
An excellent video which has drawn me to your other material. Films like Rorke’s Drift had a huge impact on me as a child, reading “Washing of the Spears” drew me further into the topic. My favourite quote: “A prayer’s as good as a bayonet on a day like this”
It’s a great line. The film probably got me into military history
Absolutely brilliant, mate. I MUST say that your youtube channel quite supplants the likes of the History channel as well as all of the others. Your channel is like military history à la carte! Cannot wait for your next release!
That is very kind of you, thanks
One of my favorite all-time movies. Quite intense. Nigel Green, as always, superb performance. And of course, introducing Michael Caine.
Lots of historical inacuracies but still a brilliant film.
One of the best films ever made. And the portrayal of the Sargent was genius. Great film, great actor.
He was not a “Sargent,” whatever that is / was. He was, at that time, a Colour Sergeant.
Obviously you are talking about Nigel Green the actor, this isn't about him, it's about C/S Bourne.
Your presentation, the pace and tenor of your voice is ideal for story telling. I have watched a couple of your videos now and they are first class. The portrayal of Sgt. Bourne in the film coloured the expectations I had of my NCO's when I became an infantry officer. And almost to a man they rarely gave me a reason to be disappointed in them. Sometimes I would describe to another officer that this or that NCO was a real 'Sergeant Bourne'. Sometimes they knew the reference, and with younger officers, sometimes not.
Thank you for taking the time to write your comment
What an incredible man! Thank you for putting this magnificent video together, i really enjoyed watching it💯 Needless to say, 'liked & subbed'
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
As an American Infantryman I always viewed Color SGT Bourne as the epitome of the British NCO. Hard as nail and steady under pressure.
Recently watched one of your colleagues, clearly a black off duty NCO, drop some antifa muppet who's mama never taught manners. Warmed my heart for days. 👍👍🤗🤗
My dear boy, its COLOUR Sergeant Bourne!
Thank you so much for this video! Zulu is my all-time favorite war movie, and as a 30-year military veteran myself (CMSgt, USAF, Ret), the valor of Colour Sergeat Bourne strikes me as a ever-ending example to the enlisted force. Well done, Colour, and godspeed.
Thank you for taking the care to spell colour the British way.
What a man. A hero in every way.
Indeed. Hope you enjoyed.
CSM Bourne is buried in Beckenham Cemetery , South East London. He was the longest lived survivor of Rorke`s Drift. Buried close to my dad, also and old soldier pf the Grenadier Guards. Both graves get a poppy from me every Remembrance Sunday.
Thanks for sharing that worthy mark of remembrance
👍
@@seanwalker6460 That`s very true ... Billy Evans, who earned his VC on The Somme in 1916.. He too gets a poppy on his grave from me every 11th November. Billy lived at Tremaine Rd. Anerley, about 15 mins. walk from his grave and is the road I was born into and lived for the first 20 odd years of my life. I well remember hearing about Billy as a little kid. Are you a local Sean?
. nice one mate 👍✌️🇬🇧
Frank Bourne a real MAN !!! Your description of his service brought him to life! A hero lives on !!
Well done sir, your tribute to Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne (later Lt. Col.) was an outstanding presentation. Thank you for the straight forward and honest history of the times, events and man!
Thanks for watching.
Well done! Thank you for creating this.
My pleasure. Glad you enjoyed
Nigel Greene was superb in his role...Hard for me to imagine, how you can train an effective force of men, when they can neither read or write...God Bless...
Nigel green was superb in the part. So sad we lost him too young
Magnificent performance of Nigel Green.
Without doubt my favourite presentation of the dozens you’ve made, Chris
Very kind of you, thanks.
I enjoyed that; thank you for posting it.
My pleasure.
What a colorful life and dedicated man to his service for his country. Thanks for giving this perspective of such an amazing man. We only see the short films or scripts and never hear about the end game. He was truly a warrior and survivor. I am sure there are many just like him forgotten in history who have some amazing stories to tell. Please keep doing this
What service to what country? Tell me, exactly. I'm sure he was brave. That does not mean he served anyone but the very rich of the time. He served the vey same people pushing children up chimneys, forcing people into such bad working conditions that their faces melted (see the match girls strike). And he did so by going to far off lands and killing the indigenous people. So yeah, he's brave - but do you really want his kind to carry on supporting the establishment?
@@peterhall3405 If you have served in the armed forces you will know, "serving your Country" is a very loose term used here. Its actually about the soldier to your left and to your right. About preparing to die, and serve for the troops with you... He gave his all, and he was lucky to survive. What a great man with a great story to tell
@@haydnjames5617 He went to some body else's country. And killed them.
Well , he was the Colour Sargent
@@haydnjames5617 Why on earth do you think he was in the army in the first place?
Chris, what an amazing topic. When I joined the army [1980] the movie was a must watch prior to attending your first promotion course for corporal. And this was 1980 and only a couple of people in the lines [barracks] had a video player. So you had to sign out the tape out from the OIC training and then we as a group [5or 6] would cram into a room in the lines to watch and re watch the movie. There was no History Chap and KZhead. We were in a rage when we saw that he did not get the VC. And no one knew this amazing story. He was a brilliant soldier and they are few and far between. Just in the past week I have purchased some brand new copies of the movie as well as Zulu Dawn. Not for me to watch as I have on my hard drive. Just in case I loose my copy, they will remain in their clear wraps. Colour Sargent Bourne was an inspiration to myself and many young soldiers over the decades, Cheers love your video's
These videos are really excellent, thanks so much for sharing them with us. Fascinating, and the type of content that deserves so many views.
Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.
Yes, I enjoyed this very much. Thank you for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching
I really appreciate the work you have done to bring him back to life many years after his passing. I do hope his resting place is well cared for.
Thanks for taking the time to comment. kzhead.info
This made me think of my great grandfather (father's side of the family) who was also a Victorian soldier. Don't know a huge amount about him, but the contrast to Colour Sergeant Bourne couldn't have been more different. A Dubliner and total madman by all accounts. Shot in the behind on some campaign, he did make sergeant, but was busted down to private fob being drunk and disorderly while commanding the guard in Gibraltar. All on my G'father's side were British Army men, One John Doyle took part in the Charge of the Light Brigade, 8th Hussars, his horse was shot from under him and he walked back through the valley with his saddle and accoutrements according to the role call taken next morning.
Dave, what an interesting family history. Thanks for sharing.
Legend !
Yes mate my great, great grandad with the same name as me James Petford was there as well with the inniskilling dragoon guards "the heavy brigade". Found this out a few years ago when I had my family tree done. Not sure but I believe the heavy brigade were ordered to charge the Russian guns first and suffered heavy losses. My grandad survived but apparently drowned on one of the troop ships returning home after a fire broke out on board . Men of Steel mate so proud to bear his name. We'll never see their like again. 👍
My Irish Great-Grand-Dad Richard Connell had been a professional soldier in the Coldstream Guards. He had fought the Fuzzie-Wuzzies in the Sudan, he had fought the Boer in South Africa, he had fought the Germans in WWI and had been discharged at war’s end with a stiff leg. After the War he made a living manufacturing antiques, so my Mum told me. Yes, manufacturing them: he would find a suitable looking modern piece and then “age it”, using ink, dyes and an old bicycle chain to put dents in it and generally distressing the furniture it it before selling it on at a profit to some mug punter. I only remember him from when I was but a little kid. His lungs had been damaged by mustard gas in WWI and he often spent time in hospital in an oxygen tent. The great London Smog of 1952, which got in everywhere, including the hospital ward he was in with its closed windows, killed him. When WWII was declared he tried to re-enlist in the Army. He tried to disguise his stiff leg (which was such that when going to the cinema he had to always have the last seat in the row because he had to poke his stiff leg out into the passageway, only for people to trip over it in the dark). The Army would not take him, so he joined the NAAFI. When the Americans at last joined the war he was transferred to a base where they were based. He though that they were a bit simple and took them for a ride getting 12 slices from a cake instead of the stipulated 10, short pouring beer so he made a pint in 10 pours etc, etc. All with him pocketing the difference. He also pilfered spirits and when ever he came home on leave the neighbours were pissed out of their brains on what he brought home. I remember him as being like Father Christmas with longish wavy white hair and beard and the fact that he always had 6d for my young aunts Margaret, Molly and for me when we saw him. His lungs had been damaged by mustard gas in WWI and he often spent time in hospital in an oxygen tent. The great London Smog of 1952, which got in everywhere, including the hospital ward he was in with its closed windows, killed him.
By coincidence my distant relative, Brigadier John Stafford Paton was QMG for the British expedition to the Sudan, or so Ive been led to believe. I'm not entirely sure the two of them would have gotten on.
I did read the referenced transcripts and also noted his comments about the failure to easily slice op the large sacks providing a barrier. Thank you for posting this video.
My pleasure.
What a wonderful piece of history you produced..thankyou
My pleasure
Went to Rorke's Drift on the 121st anniversary of the battle, and also visited the Isandhlwana battlefield of the night before. Awesome! And to hear the Zulu women singing in the church at Rorke's Drift was fantastic.
Wow, I bet that was amazing.
it was as a young man that i discovered rourke,s drift through a serial magazine of the time and became fascinated with the subject when i first seen zulu i was transformed.And can remember all of the regional accents and can repeat many of the lines of by heart i have just been awakened again by the surge of a mixture of pride and sadness for the passing of such a time.
William, thank you for sharing.
Fantastic production, thanks so much!
Thanks for watching
My initial thoughts was that the care about those who served under him. He knew every detail of their lives intimately and yet engendered respect. Even in the height of battle in real life he appears to have strengthened them. Just doung his job is astonishing and in many aspects above even what the VC represents. Thank you for putting context to a much loved character and the story is bigger than I could have imagined.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
My fav quote was when he was facing that Zulu and he didn't know how many shots he'd fired: "You Were Only Supposed To Blow The Bloody Doors Off!!" - ah, classic Sergeant Bourne. 😎👍
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@@twotone3070 😄
When Zulu was released at our local cinema, my friend and I managed to stay in and watch it twice on the first day !! And in 2016, my son , who lived in South Africa at the time, drove us both down to Isandlwana and Rorkes Drift to visit the battlefield sites. Still cant believe I went there , so amazing !!
Thanks so much for sharing.
Beautiful!! Thank you for this!!
You’re very welcome, thanks for watching my video
This movie followed me through my Australian Army Military career. First in the 70’s with Army Cadets, then the 80’s at Bardia Barracks as a Reservist recruit and again on my Cpl and Sgt’s courses. The last time was when I transferred to Regular service with 1 Bde HQ. I last ran it was in the 90’s when I was running team building courses for ICI shift teams. I think it’s time again! This and the Dad’s Army series you have done have me hooked. Cheers Mate.🇳🇿
Thanks for sharing those experiences.
He died at 91 (astonishing for that time) and 1 day after V-Day? Someone was defiantly looking out for him.
91 is rather good inings even nower days.