Churchill’s Spaniards: A Story of Courage and Sacrifice
‘Churchill’s Spaniards – Continuing the Fight in the British Army 1939-46,’ a new book by Séan Scullion, reveals the inspiring stories of approximately 1,200 Spanish soldiers who enlisted with the British Army to defeat Hitler during World War II. These men, many of whom were veterans of the Spanish Civil War, risked their lives for freedom and faced incredible danger, including the threat of being hunted by the Franco regime.
One such soldier, Ángel Camarena, participated in some of the most dangerous Special Air Service (SAS) operations of the war. He survived a harrowing ambush by the Nazis in which 30 troopers lost their lives and went on to fight in another daring SAS operation as the British crossed the Rhine in the final days of the war. Camarena’s remarkable life also includes escaping execution at the hands of General Francisco Franco, joining the Allies in North Africa, and ultimately signing up for the elite SAS forces.
Camarena’s story is just one of many incredible tales featured in ‘Churchill’s Spaniards,’ a book that brings to life the experiences of these Spanish soldiers who chose to fight for a cause larger than themselves. Lieutenant Colonel Scullion, a British Army officer currently working for NATO in the Netherlands, dedicated eight years to researching this book. He paints a gripping picture of these men’s daring exploits, highlighting their courage and resilience.
The book explores the various roles these Spaniards played in the war effort. Some joined the SAS and conducted long-distance desert raids, while others served as spies for the Special Operations Executive (SOE) or fought on battlefronts across North Africa, Europe, and even Norway. To avoid capture and potential execution by the Francoist regime, many of these soldiers adopted British aliases, hiding their true identities while carrying the weight of their Spanish heritage.
Their journey to fighting for the Allies was not easy. Many were refugees from the Spanish Civil War, seeking a new home and a chance to fight against fascism. After the Nazi invasion of France in 1940, some initially joined the French Foreign Legion, but ultimately chose to fight for the British due to their reputation and the Spaniards’ less-than-ideal treatment by the French. A second wave of Spanish troops joined the British in 1942 following the Allied liberation of North Africa.
One of the most unique units was the No. 1 Spanish Company of the Auxiliary Military Pioneer Corps, known for their courage despite being perceived as “hotheads” by some British officers during training. However, their dedication and bravery shone through on the battlefield.
Despite their sacrifices and contributions to the Allied victory, many of these Spanish soldiers were left disappointed by the Allies’ failure to depose Franco after the war. Nevertheless, many chose to settle in Britain and formed associations to continue resisting Franco’s regime from afar.
The book is filled with individual tales of heroism that make for compelling reading. One of the most remarkable stories is that of Rafael Ramos Masens, who took part in a desperate battle behind enemy lines towards the end of the war. He earned the Military Medal for his bravery, killing six Germans and carrying his wounded captain to safety.
The story also highlights the contribution of Esteban Molina, father of the renowned British actor and Hollywood star, who served with the SOE. Another notable figure is Alfonso Canovas, an SOE officer who received a Military Medal for his role in liberating a French town. His grandson, Jason Canovas, is a prominent sound director who has been nominated for an Academy Award.
Scullion’s book is a testament to the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of the Spanish soldiers who fought alongside the British in World War II. Their stories, often overlooked and forgotten, finally receive the recognition they deserve, highlighting the international scope of the war and the importance of remembering the contributions of all those who fought for freedom.
Families of these Spanish soldiers are calling for a monument to be erected in honor of their sacrifice, hoping that Britain or Spain will recognize their contributions. This book is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering the past and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for a better future.
