Brigadier Ronald James Pope was killed tragically in a helicopter accident in Abu Dhabi on 14th April 1976, age 51.Educated at Llandaff School, Cardiff, Ronnie joined the South Wales Borderers in 1943 and landed with the 2nd Battalion in Normandy on 'D' Day and was twice wounded in the ensuing four months.
After the war, he served with the 1st Battalion in Palestine before becoming Adjutant of 2nd Battalion The Monmouthshire Regiment TA in 1947.In 1950 he rejoined the 1st Battalion in Eritrea as Adjutant, an appointment he filled with memorable distinction and efficiency.He was an instructor at Eaton Hall Officer Training School from 1954-55 and attended the Staff College in 1956.This was followed by two years as DAAQMG in Malta and a further year as a Company Commander with the 1st Battalion in Minden.Graduating from Joint Services Staff College Latimer in 1961, he returned to Minden for a very successful tour as Brigade Major of 11th Infantry Brigade.
Biography