Henry Hook VC: A Rorke's Drift Hero Paperback - Neil Thornton

Henry Hook VC: A Rorke's Drift Hero Paperback - Neil Thornton

Henry Hook is one of the most well-known private soldiers in the history of the British military. His portrayal in the movie "Zulu" has cemented his fame. However, the real Henry Hook was quite different from the character depicted in the movie. Unlike the hard-drinking scoundrel on screen, Hook had an unblemished record and received good conduct stripes and excellent character references from his superiors after leaving the army.

During the Battle of Rorke's Drift, Hook was assigned to defend the hospital, with orders to protect the sick and wounded. He fulfilled his duty with utmost determination and was willing to sacrifice his own life to save others who were less able. For his actions during the battle, Hook was awarded the prestigious Victoria Cross.

In this book, Rorke's Drift expert Neil Thornton chronicles Hook's life, from his early years to his turbulent marriage and later life. Thornton debunks a number of myths that have developed over the years and analyzes Hook's role in the Battle of Rorke's Drift.