COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE

Royal Marines

Issue Date: 8 Dec 1998






The link between the Falkland Islands and the Corp of the Royal Marines began as early as 1766.

This issue of atmps is to commemorate the role of the Royal Marines and to show the various uniforms worn throughout their association with the Falkland Islands and are depicted against relevant backgrounds of each period.

17p - Marine Private 1766

On the 8th January 1766, Great Britain established its first Settlement on Saunders Island on the West Falkland. The Marines built the 'Blockhouse' as shown in the background.

30p - Marine Officer 1833

In 1833 the British established a new Settlement at Port Louis on the East Falkland from which time until 1842 there were always detachments of Royal Marines forming part of the Garrison under the Naval Officer in Charge of the Falklands. In addition to the Marines' normal duties, records exist which suggest that daily duties included the rounding up and killing of wild cattle and the gathering and taming of wild horses. The background shows the old fort at Port Louis.

35p - Royal Marines Corporal 1914

The Battle of the Falkland Islands took place on the 8th December 1914. A detachment of Royal Marines were aboard HMS Kent of the South Atlantic squadron, one of the vessels that took part in this famous battle. Unfortunately, during the action, eight Royal Marines were killed.

65p - Royal Marines Bugler 1976

The Royal Marines were awarded the Honorary Freedom of Stanley on the 8th December 1976 in recognition of the close association of the Corps with the Falklands for over two centuries. The background picture is that of the Royal Marines receiving the Freedom of Stanley at a ceremony on the lawns at Government House.

First Day Cover

The First Day cover design depicts the role of the Royal Marines during the Falklands War. After fighting their way across East Falkland they yomped down the Two Sisters Track to link up with other units of the British Forces to liberate Stanley on 14 June 1982.




Technical details:

Designer: Victor Ambrus
Printer: Walsall Security Printers Ltd
Process: Lithography
Perforations: 14.2 per 2 cms
Stamp size: 30.56 x 38.00 mm
Watermark: Crown Agents




Copyright: FI Philatelic Bureau Created and Maintained by: Cyberpoint Limited