Zulu: Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne - the real story!
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- Опубликовано: 9 фев 2025
- Today is the anniversary of the Battle of Rorke's Drift and it seemed like the perfect day to look at the life of one of the battle's most intriguing characters - Frank Bourne OBE, DCM. During the battle, he was a Colour Sergeant but he was to have a stellar career and be one of the few defenders who achieved his full potential. Watch this film to learn about his life and how realistic Nigel Green's portrayal was in the movie 'Zulu'.
To find out more about the battle you can listen to my podcast here - • Rorke's Drift - The fu...
And you can walk the battlefield with me here - • Anglo-Zulu war: A tour...
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The bloke played him in the film Zulu was brilliant .
Nigel Green.
Nigel Green was a fine actor, appeared with Michael Caine again in "The Ipcress File"
I believe that the belt buckle worn by Nigel Green for the film was actually at the real battle. It was loaned to Green by the Grandson of one of the defenders who was an advisor for the film. The Grandson was banished from the film set by Stanley Baker for making the comment " what are all these bloody Welshmen doing here ", as the 24th then was not a Welsh Regiment at the time of the battle
It may not be totally accurate, but Nigel Green's portrayal on Sgt. Bourne is still my favourite part of Zulu.
It is great acting and a cracking character I can't disagree Bob.
Bourne had seen action In the Zulu War, seen the end of the Boer War, served in WWI and saw the collapse of the German empire, then saw the end of Hitler's reign and WWII. What a military career that man had. For a "kid", he didn't do bad. :)
He was also the last surviving Rorke's Drift defender.
When he first joined, the breechloading metallic cartridge firing Snider-Enfield was the pinnacle of military technology.
He lived to see the first/only use of nuclear weapons.
That really puts it into perspective
@@sharonrigs7999 While your first statement was correct, he did not actually live to see the only use of nuclear weapons. He died on the 9th of May, 1945.. A day after the war ended in Europe. However, the war continued in the Pacific until the nuclear bombs were finally dropped in August 1945.
Other than that, yeah.. It really does put it into perspective.
"Nobody told you to stop working"
LMFAO. Great comment !
@@Stu1919 every senior NCO in history has spoken those same words. 🤣
" Because we're here, lad. Nobody else."
The last survivor of that famous defence and dies a day after VE day. Very poignant. What a man and what a hero
Colour sargent Bourne brilliant feel good story some story's end really tragic but this was great till his end,great stuff.
Unbelievable that a filmed interview with him was wiped.
Incredible , what a shame
Disappointed that he was overlooked for the Victoria Cross. Perhaps a petition can be started to have him awarded one posthumously?
Hmmm . I’m in two minds about that. Reminds me of the move to posthumously promote Sir John Monash to Field Marshal. Of course he deserves it and he would be a far more worthy recipient than the only Australian Field Marshal (Blamey). But it seems like a false honour. Monash’s place in history is assured as is Frank Bourne’s.
The real Bourne was offered a choice - a Commission or a VC - he chose a Commission
What an amazing man he was , from poor but obviously highly intelligent farmers son to being admired for his abilities, competence and leadership skills by the entire army and like you said going onwards and upwards to end as a senior officer. Great series.
Good video, thanks for your efforts.
Interestingly, I was born in South Africa to an Afrikaans speaking family, so by all measures 100% Boer as my forefathers & family name are Dutch. When I left SA and came to the UK I joined the British Army and served for 11 years. Now I live in a house right behind where the School of Musketry was (it’s now a Sainsburys) in Hythe, in Sir John Moore Avenue across the road from Major General John Brown’s house.
Nice one! I have met quite a few Afrikaaners who have served in the British military. To be fair, despite the historical "issues" it does make sense...If a young South African is keen to serve and learn soldiering then it seems to be a more practical option than the SANDF. I guess the only other obvious choice would be the French Foreign legion (especially with the promise of a passport after 4 years)...
@@redcoathistory I joined up by pure accident, walked into a Military careers office in London out of interest and I got persuaded to join. 😂 Don’t regret it though, went many places and saw & learned things I never would have been able to otherwise. As for the FFL, I met a chap in Iraq that left the Royal Marines because it apparently wasn’t challenging enough, joined the FFL for 7 years and then came back and joined the British army because he got bored again. Different breed of soldier he was…
Thanks for your service. It’s a small world at times. I recently moved from Sir John Moore Avenue to New Romney nine miles down the round. We lived opposite the car park on the bend just before Corunna Close. I loved the history living there and our strolls along the military canal.
All the very best
@@markaustin5324 Crazy! Small world indeed. 😁
And agreed, nice to live somewhere with such a rich history.
This man deserves more recognition! Great video thanks.
Loving this series, Chris! Lieutenant Colonel Frank Bourne is also thought to be the last surviving defender of Rorke's Drift to pass away. His medals, including his OBE and DCM, are currently held by the Royal Regiment of Wales Museum in Brecon.
Hi James, wonderful to hear from you and I'm glad you are enjoying this series - I need to get around to finishing it at some point. I left facebook a while ago so havent been able to keep in touch as much as I would like - I hope we speak soon.
Good video. Lt. Col Frank Bourne was a truly great British soldier. And, yes, please finish the series on heroes of Rorke's Drift and then expand it to other 19th century campaigns British children, sadly, no longer learn about.
The rank of CSM did not exist in the 1870's and a Colour Sgt pretty much filled that roll then, as the Company Commanders right hand man. So Bourne's early promotion was even more telling.
Thanks a lot. Yes I suspect I’m fighting a losing battle hoping that younger generations will get to learn about the campaigns we are fascinated by - but that’s why we must continue to do our bit to share the stories. I know you are also doing your bit 👍🏼
@@redcoathistory Like the best British soldiers never surrender and keep fighting the good fight.
@@99IronDuke Old soldiers never die the just smell that way :>) from an ex soldier!!
Ripping stuff ! Thanks for your exciting programs.
Just love this .
Thanks Robert!
Imagine if that interview was still there to listen to
Yes - absolutely tragic.
@@redcoathistory Is it known when that interview was deleted?
@@larrygiesbrecht3428 Yes I think it was in the 50's.
If you were going to pick a person to fit the man of Frank Bourne's stature, the portrayal by Nigel Green was easily fit for purpose. I have just stumbled across your channel, and subscribed straight away.
So much rubbish on You Tube but i throughly enjoy your videos, really excellent history lessons and enjoyable narrative, should be shown in Schools
Thankyou so much for keeping our proud history alive and for shining a bright light onto the service and commitment of all our countrymen from days gone by.I can tell it is a labour of love for you,it is much appreciated
Thanks a lot. Really appreciate you messaging me. I will keep doing my best to keep the history alive.
Another fantastic insight to history thats very close to me. Thank you so much.
Just subscribed. Yeah, OK, I know Zulu is about as inaccurate as any historical war movie can be, but it certainly portrayed the courage, on both sides, of the combatants and will always be one of my top five favorite movies. Thank you for a fantastic presentation.
This is an outstanding story! I would NEVER have imagined Sergeant Bourne as YOUNG as that (24) during the Battle of Roarke's Drift! Truly amazing !
Glad you enjoyed it - I have an update on this film out in a few weeks that I think you'll also enjoy.
Great video thanks. To think I walked the same ground this man walked. Just special.
well, this is one of the most informative videos I have seen in quite some time. Even though I am 2 years late, thank you for doing this. The only thing I know about this British historical time is the 1964 movie. I am across the pond in Norfolk, VA, another area of colorful British history.
Superb presentation, Chris.
I just came across "Zulu" on the TV again and l never get bored of it, even if there's numerous historical inaccuracies.
Thank you.
Thank you ......very interesting.
Thanks, I like to pay my respects if I can
This is great stuff fella. Your doing a stellar job. Many thanks.
Awesome mate.
He was a legend. Such a shame the interview was destroyed, would have loved to hear what he sounded like. I've heard the narrated version.
Thanks - yes it would have been amazing to actually hear his voice.
I was unaware musketry was still persisting in the Army in 1907. Incredible video and appreciate the work you put in!
I think you’ll find the term musketry means the use and care of rifles as opposed to actually using muskets!!
Thank You for Correcting History.
Your videos are Excellent.
Thanks a lot. I really appreciate that comment.
Excellent job!
Another great Friday video.
Thanks Hugh.
@@redcoathistory welcome. I am loving them.
Brilliant video.
Great research. 👌🏼♥️
Thank you for this series. I saw the film on the big screen and in later years three times on TV. Loved it!
What a great video, thank you! Not just for the content, which I enjoyed, but also for your editing style. The editing fashion on youtube is to remove pauses between sentences until the sentences flow like rushing water. There are many channels with great content that I do not want to watch because they use this style, which feels too rushed and frenetic. But your editing style is perfect, leaving natural gaps between sentences that give me time to listen to what you're saying. Thank you for bucking the trend.
Thanks a lot. I’m always experimenting with my films - some you may like, some you might not. Let me know what you think.
In the film Michael Caine played the superior officer of Nigel Greene (as Bourne). In their next film, the wonderful Ipcress File, these roles were reversed.
Both great films 👍🏼
Fantastic piece of Brit' History . 1879 , for me at least , wasn't that long ago . A long lifespan can encompass nine hundred and sixty months .
When I started reading about Rorke's Drift (having seen "Zulu" several times), I was totally surprised when I first learned of the REAL Colour Sergeant Bourne's youth and diminutive stature; Nigel Green was the very model of the grizzled, tough, experienced, firm but fair senior NCO. But that just makes his actions at Rorke's Drift that much more impressive!
Amazing man❤️
Excellent
Well done keep telling us more please
Thank you. Loved this share.
I have a trip booked to go back to South Africa next year (if I can go) plan to re-visit isandlwanha, rorkes drift, ulundi etc. Not the same war but will be doing spion kop as well.
Fantastic - that will be a great trip.
Did you go Adam?
@@ericbleasel5907 im going in November
Excellent video...
Another great vid, I look forward to Fridays for your videos.
That's great thanks a lot. I hope I can keep it up!
Gutted to have to wait a few months for the next one. But your doing a sterling job with the content! Keep up the good work..
Cheers Russ - I promise to finish the series eventually 👍🏼
I saw the film on the big screen- It has been my favourite all the years.
As like many other comments already posted thanks for sharing this great soldiers story. A man made of strong stuff.
Great video! Bourne was just awesome!
Thanks mate - yes he was certainly an amazing guy.
I've been trying to "follow" my Dad into Europe with 179th FR RA 43rd Wessex Div. , & considering this is relatively modern times it still amazes how few actually wrote down their experiences . My Dad was very interested in WW2 but like so many his story is lost bar a few jots in the edges of Gen. Essame's 43rd Wessex Div at war & as a kid I never really asked...now it's TOO late.
Brilliant!!
Thanks Josh
Excellent series! I enjoyed every bit of it.
Thanks Ken!
Another great video keep em up!
Cheers mate!
Fantastic job. Thanks for posting
Thankyou so much
Great stuff, liked & subscribed
Cheers Charlie - appreciate that
Is there any way to award the V.C. after a review of his action at Rorke's Drift? After all his actions and leadership added to the victory at Rorke's Drift.
You mean now? No - I think there is a rule that actions can't be considered for a VC after X number of years.
It would serve no use at this stage. However a statue in his home town would be a splendid tribute.
The History Chap has done a video about Henry Hook
That he was born when flying was about a balloon and died when jets and rockets and atom bombs were soon to dictate the path of war!
Thanks for the excellent well balanced report with no mention of the empire!
These guys just followed orders - please don't erase :) This is our heritage
Thank you. Cheers from Denmark 🇩🇰
Thanks, Ken.
Keep up the great work. I stumbled across your channel and really enjoy your shows.
Cheers Joshua - glad you are enjoying the channel.
a true gent and scholar a mans man.
A fascinating story told with style. Thank you. I’m now a subscribing fan. I look forward to watching your other videos.
.
That's great - thanks for letting me know. I hope you enjoy the other videos.
Thanks for the yeoman’s work researching and sharing your knowledge about the key players at the Battle of Rorke’s Drift. I’ve found it both illuminating and entertaining. This post in the series and in general is one of the best on RUclips! Much obliged!!!
Thanks for the positive comment - much appreciated.
great video and insight into the man.
Just found this,
it is very good.
Thanks.
Glad you like it!
Amazing, well done 👍🏻👏👏
Cheers Mate
Excellent ... really enjoyed Thanks very much ..Subbed ;)
No VC,considering his brave contribution to the battle and rank you would of thought he would have been a recipient,just as an aside what a monumental task disposing of all those dead bodies on the battlefield.
Excellent channel!
well done
Hello Christian, great video mate, keep em coming, stay safe, Lee.
Thanks Lee, same to you mate.
on seeing this man reenlist his commanding officer reading his references and previous conduct wood sea him promoted on the spot as a man of good caricature.
Chris, is it true that Stanley Baker (Lt. Chard) sought to get a replica of Chard's VC but ended up with the actual VC ?
New subscriber. Binge watched all of your videos. So why didn’t Bourne get the VC?
Fascinating level of detail. I believe he died May 9, 1945.
7:13 in that time was the Battle famous? Or did that happen later after the movie?
Just found your channel searching for the Bourne wanting to learn more about his history
Absolutely love this series, gutting to hear the BBC destroyed the Frank Bourne interview though.
Yeah that’s a real shocker and very annoying that happened.
I still unable to understand why F Bourne was not awarded the VC. He was the stalwart at Rorke's Drift.
I have read Chard wrote him up for a VC - " wherever he was present it was like having an extra platoon". Somewhere up the chain someone ruled him out - " well done, but just doing his job".
Great guy , as a small bore shooter for 67 years , nice to know he was a founding fathers of the NSRA ? Where is his grave ?
Hi Graham - I’d have to check grave location as I don’t know off top of my head. I’m sure a google search will reveal though 👍🏼
He is buried in Beckenham Crematorium and Cemetery in Kent and his house in King's Hall Road, Beckenham has a blue plaque.
@@99IronDuke Brilliant thanks.
Frank Bourne died at his home address , 16 Kings Hall Road, Beckenham , Kent, on VE day, 1945 at the age of 91. On google earth street view the blue disc can be seen above the front door. If he had lived another 18years he could have gone to the cinema to see the film, and of course he would not have had to pay as there was a sign outside saying "Born Free"
Where was the sign outside the cinema? What did it mean?
Where is the final resting place of this outstanding Soldier, Gentleman and Brit?
Would like to pay my proper respects to him if in the area. Thank you.
With regard to the VC it for valor , above & beyond what is reasonably expected of a British soldier under fire . As the colour sargent & top soldier he was doing what was expected of him.
I wonder how he wasn't awarded the VC!
Was offered a choice - a Commission or a VC - chose a Commission
Ciao!! Could you please list the medals he was awarded?
I have a video on that this month. . .
The reference to CV/Sgt. Bourne being called 'The Kid' comes from the later destroyed (what kind of archivist would do that?) interview 'I Was There' BBC Radio broadcast (1936), reproduced in The Listener Magazine, 20 December 1936.
Semper Fi!
I don't believe that there were any US Marines present at Rorke's Driuft 😀
All right then........
Why didn't Colour Sergeant Bourne get the VC after Roark's Drift? I have always believed that it was because, as the senior NCO present, he conducted himself during the battle exactly as everyone believed the senior NCO should have. As though the attitude was, "Well of course he was heroic. He was senior NCO present, wasn't he?" Thus the lesser award for "a job very well done". (And his DCM and annuity were nothing to sneeze at either.)
The click in Xhosa isn't a separate syllable
Thanks Wally
@@redcoathistory From what I understand the click kinda overlaps the "co" sound. But then again, I'm from the West Country so it's debatable if I can even speak English lol
Frank Bourne was the last survivor who passed away on May 9th, 1945, so that was another overshadowing of his life.
Thanks Richard - I thought it was the 8th?
@@redcoathistory You are correct. I remembered imperfectly from the book “Washing of the Spears” and thought that CSG Bourne had passed away on VE Day not the day prior.
You’re not the first video to get his year of birth wrong: he was born in 1855, not ‘54. I wonder where this discrepancy comes from, I wonder if it appears in a book somewhere and keeps getting quoted. (By the way, this info is from the national registry of births, marriages and deaths, where his birth appears in the second quarter of 1855 in the Hastings registration district).
THE HERO'S WENT INSANE. POOR SOULS. THEY DIED THEIR DEATHS MANY TIMES.
"Subscribers report, videos on a playlist. 56 of 'em."
Was he in Ireland for the whole of WW1?
If he was born in 1854 then he. Was only 25 at the time of the battle and the actor who portrayed him was clearly older than the actual person
First up on the mealie bags