Hardwick Hall - Home of the first British Airborne Depot
In September 1941 the 1st Parachute Battalion, formerly the 2nd Commando Unit moved to Hardwick Hall where the 1st Parachute Brigade was being formed. From all over the British Army volunteers arrived at Hardwick for their initial training and their selection before going on to Ringway (Manchester Airport) for their Parachute jumps. On completion they then returned to Hardwick to join the newly formed Parachute Battalions. 
The camp at Hardwick which was situated by the two lakes eventually became the Depot and School for Airborne Forces containing Parachute and Air landing Training elements together with a Battle School selected and trained Airborne troops for the remainder of the war.
From 1941 to 1946 when the Depot closed 2nd Airborne Division an Independent Parachute Brigade consisting of some 17 Parachute Battalions passed through Hardwick Camp. Although their numbers are decreasing rapidly some old members still return each year and relive their memories of their arduous training. The everlasting legacy they will leave behind is the recovery of over 600 bicycles and 4 motorcycles dredged from the two lakes when the National Trust took over the Hall and the Park.
On 16th May 1987 Brigadier Ted Flavell accompanied by the Deputy Colonel Commandant of the Parachute Regiment, General Sir Michael Gray, unveiled a plaque to commemorate the association of Airborne Forces with Hardwick Hall and to remember those comrades who trained there and later fought and died in the service of their country.
Since 1988 the Chesterfield Branch of the Parachute Regimental Association has continued the Airborne Connection by organising an Annual Dedication service.
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Bert Marsh – Update:
Bert is now very much back to his old self having had his heart Op and is now back to doing considerable walking and also back on his exercise bike each morning. His leg still needs to heal but it is coming together slowly.It did not stop him going to Normandy and meeting his old Pal Les Marsh and together were were celebrities nor did it stop him making ABF North at Eden Camp last weekend. So if they can keep going we must a least try our best.
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Quotation!
“Of all the factors which make for success in battle, the spirit of the warrior is the most decisive. That spirit can be found in full measure in the men who wear the Maroon Beret”. Field Marshall the Viscount Montgomery of Alamein
