Dufftown Royal British Legion celebrates 'force of nature' Wullie Granitza during 40th anniversary commemoration of Falklands Conflict's end
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THE grandson of a paratrooper who served in one of the Falklands' toughest battles has "nothing but pride" for his late-grandpa's sacrifice, as he laid a wreath marking 40 years since the conflict's end.
During a memorial service hosted by Dufftown's Royal British Legion, steely paratrooper Wullie Granitza's grandson Jack laid a wreath marking 40 years since the Argentinian surrender in the Falklands.
Lossiemouth's Mike "Wullie" Granitza, who became a Regimental Sergeant Major of the 216 Parachute Signal Squadron, saw active service in Northern Ireland and the Falklands.
He was a radio operator under Colonel Herbert Jones at the Battle of Goose Green, a gruelling and bloody 14-hour engagement in which his "2-para" regiment triumphed against a huge Argentinian force.
Wullie passed away in 2019 at 68, leaving a massive impact on his family and army peers alike.
Speaking after the memorial, Jack said he felt honoured to represent his grandfather's bravery and resilience.
Jack said: "When I was asked, it was an instant yes. It felt like something I could do for him now.
"I did not really feel nervous doing it. I know he would have done it if he was still here, so it felt right.
"In the past, when I used to hear all the stories he would tell about the Falklands and all the other places he went with the army, I just wanted to tell everyone.
"I felt nothing but pride for his service when I placed that wreath today."
The memorial service was taken by Reverend Eddie Enslin, of Mortlach and Cabrach Parish Church, and was attended by Lord Leiutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson and senior members of the Royal British Legion.
Lord Lieutenant Simpson said: "It was very appropriate to gather here today to remember those who served in the Falklands conflict, those who survived and especially those who did not.
"This war is still very much alive in the minds of people in the area who served in it."
Alastair Combe, President of Dufftown's Royal British Legion branch, shared his own personal memories of Wullie.
Mr Combe said: "It was important to have the input of people who served in the conflict.
"So we decided to invite Jack, who is the grandson of Wullie Grantiza, to pay tribute on our behalf.
"Wullie was my first sergeant major and he was a real force of nature.
"He was great company, even though he could be a little old school when in command!"
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