December 1942, 10 marines pulled off a daring commando raid in which they paddled more than 70 miles in folding kayaks along the Gironde estuary, evading German gunners to plant limpet mines on German supply ships. Only four men made it to the post, and only two escaped to return home – the others all died. The marines of Operation Frankton are known as the Cockleshell Heroes.
80 years later, The Cockleshell 22 project sees 10 former marines kayak the same route to mark the 80th anniversary of the raid, telling the story of the Cockleshell Heroes and raising money for The Royal Marine Charity, Help for Heroes, The Royal British Legion and The Mercian Benevolent Fund.
Have successfully completed the kayak, the Cockleshell 22 team have begun the second part of the challenge, a speed march on the 100-mile route from Blaye to Ruffec which the survivors used to escape.
Castlemead have proudly insured and sponsored the team and wish them the very best in their expedition
You can view their progress here
Cockleshell 22 – Part 1 – Final preparations
Cockleshell 22 – Part 2 – Arriving in Bordeaux
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