David Stirling: How Long A POW? The Untold Story!
Ever wondered about the fate of a war hero, trapped behind enemy lines? David Stirling, the legendary founder of the SAS, endured a significant period as a prisoner of war, a testament to the harsh realities faced even by the most ingenious and courageous leaders.
Archibald David Stirling, born on November 15, 1915, at Keir House, near Doune, Perthshire, Scotland, lived a life far removed from the confines of a prison camp for much of his early years. His childhood in the Scottish Highlands instilled in him a love for freedom and honed his skills as a hunter. Strikingly tall and athletically built, Stirling initially seemed an unlikely candidate to revolutionize warfare. As World War II loomed, Stirling abandoned his mountaineering aspirations and joined the Scots Guards in 1939. An early, almost comical, end to his military career nearly occurred when he fell asleep during an officer’s class after a late night, almost leading to his expulsion. However, fate had other plans for the young Stirling.
| David Stirling: Biographical and Professional Information | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Archibald David Stirling |
| Date of Birth | November 15, 1915 |
| Place of Birth | Keir House, Doune, Perthshire, Scotland |
| Date of Death | November 4, 1990 |
| Place of Death | London, England |
| Age at Death | 75 |
| Military Career |
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| Key Achievements |
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| Prisoner of War | Captured in Tunisia, January 1943; held in various POW camps, including Colditz. |
| Awards and Honors | OBE, DSO |
| Family | Brother: Bill Stirling |
| Reference | Imperial War Museums - David Stirling |
Inside the real David Stirling's time as prisoner of war TV & Radio
Inside the real David Stirling's time as prisoner of war TV & Radio
Inside the real David Stirling's prisoner of war ordeal and escape attempts
