Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : General Sir Mike Jackson, the former head of the British army, passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and courage. Known for his role in the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, General Jackson also served in the Balkans and Northern Ireland during his distinguished military career.
In a moment that defined his character, General Jackson famously refused an order from his American commander to intercept Russian troops entering Kosovo without NATO permission. His response, “I’m not going to start World War III for you,” showcased his integrity and commitment to avoiding unnecessary conflict.
Born into a military family, General Jackson joined the army at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks. His service during the Cold War, including learning Russian in the intelligence corps, prepared him for the challenges he would face throughout his career.
General Jackson’s leadership was further demonstrated during his command of the Parachute Regiment and his time overseeing the UN peacekeeping force in Bosnia. He received the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership during the Kosovo campaign before becoming head of the British Army just before the Iraq war began.
Despite the difficult tasks he faced, General Jackson was remembered as a charismatic and outspoken general who was beloved by those he led. His passing has left a void in the military community, with tributes pouring in from all who knew him.
General Sir Mike Jackson’s legacy as a great leader of men will be long remembered, and his impact on the British army and beyond will continue to be felt for years to come.
Former army chief General Sir Mike Jackson dies at the age of 80
General Sir Mike Jackson, the former head of the British army, passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership that will be dearly missed and long remembered. Born into a military family on March 21, 1944, he joined the army at 19 and went on to serve in various conflict zones, including the Balkans, Northern Ireland, and Iraq.
One of the defining moments of Sir Mike’s career came in 1999 when he famously refused an order from his American commander to intercept Russian troops entering Kosovo without NATO permission. "I’m not going to start World War III for you," he reportedly told General Wesley Clark, demonstrating his steadfast commitment to avoiding unnecessary conflict.
Throughout his military career, Sir Mike earned a reputation as a much-loved and respected soldier, known for his distinctive appearance – heavy bags under his eyes and a rich, gravelly voice refined by whiskey and cheroots. He was recognized for his leadership during the Kosovo campaign, receiving the Distinguished Service Order for his contributions.
In 2003, Sir Mike led the British army during the US-led invasion of Iraq, a challenging and controversial period in modern military history. Despite the difficulties and complexities of the mission, he navigated the situation with courage and determination, earning the respect of his troops and the wider public.
Beyond his military achievements, Sir Mike was also known for his role in amalgamating old regiments and his charismatic, outspoken nature. He was a great leader of men, as remembered by the Parachute Regimental Association, and will be missed by many who had the privilege of serving under his command.
Sir Mike is survived by three children from two marriages and four grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and leadership that will endure for generations to come. His impact on the British army and the wider military community is profound, and his memory will continue to be honored and celebrated in the years to come.
Who was General Sir Mike Jackson?
General Sir Mike Jackson was the former head of the British army who passed away at the age of 80. He led the army during the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, after serving in the Balkans and Northern Ireland. In 1999, he famously refused an order from his American commander to intercept Russian troops as they entered Kosovo without NATO permission. He was known for his strong leadership and principled stance on military matters.
What were some key moments in General Sir Mike Jackson’s career?
General Sir Mike Jackson had a long and distinguished military career. He served in the Parachute Regiment during the Troubles in Northern Ireland and was on the ground during the infamous Bloody Sunday incident. He later commanded the UN peacekeeping force in Bosnia and received the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership during the Kosovo campaign. Just before the Iraq war began, he became head of the British Army, where he faced the challenging task of amalgamating old regiments.
How was General Sir Mike Jackson remembered?
General Sir Mike Jackson was remembered as a much-loved and respected soldier, not only by those in the military but also by the wider public. He was known for his distinctive appearance, with heavy bags under his eyes and a rich, gravelly voice. He was described as a charismatic and outspoken general who was a great leader of men. His legacy lives on through the fond memories of those who served under him.
What was General Sir Mike Jackson’s personal life like?
General Sir Mike Jackson was born into a military family on March 21, 1944. He joined the army at the age of 19 and later graduated from the University of Birmingham in 1967. He was married twice and is survived by three children and four grandchildren. Despite his demanding career in the military, he was known for his devotion to his family and his commitment to serving his country.
What were some of the tributes paid to General Sir Mike Jackson?
After his passing, tributes poured in for General Sir Mike Jackson from colleagues, friends, and the wider military community. The Parachute Regimental Association hailed him as a great leader of men who would be missed by many. His legacy as a respected soldier and a charismatic general was celebrated by all who knew him. His contributions to the British Army and his unwavering commitment to his troops were remembered with gratitude and respect.
**Who was General Sir Mike Jackson and what were his accomplishments?**
General Sir Mike Jackson was a highly respected figure in the British Army, known for his leadership during pivotal moments in history. He served as the head of the army during the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, following his experiences in the Balkans and Northern Ireland. One of his most notable moments came in 1999 when he refused an order from his American commander to intercept Russian troops entering Kosovo without NATO permission, boldly stating, “I’m not going to start World War III for you.” This act of integrity and courage solidified his reputation as a principled leader.
**What was General Sir Mike Jackson’s background and early career like?**
Born into a military family on March 21, 1944, Sir Mike Jackson joined the army at the young age of 19. He later graduated from the University of Birmingham in 1967, showcasing his commitment to both education and military service. During the height of the Cold War, he learned Russian in the intelligence corps, demonstrating his dedication to expanding his skill set. His transfer to the Parachute Regiment in 1970 led him to serve in Northern Ireland during a tumultuous period known as the Troubles. Despite facing challenging circumstances, he continued to excel in his military career.
**What were some of General Sir Mike Jackson’s key assignments and honors?**
Sir Mike Jackson’s career was marked by significant assignments that showcased his leadership abilities. He commanded the UN peacekeeping force in Bosnia between 1995 and 1996, contributing to efforts for peace and stability in the region. During the Kosovo campaign, he received the Distinguished Service Order for his exceptional leadership skills. Just before the Iraq war commenced, he assumed the role of head of the British Army, a position that required him to navigate complex military and political landscapes. Despite facing challenges such as amalgamating old regiments, he remained a charismatic and outspoken general, leaving a lasting impact on those who served under him.
**How is General Sir Mike Jackson remembered and what was his personal life like?**
General Sir Mike Jackson was not only admired within the military but also by the wider public for his leadership and character. His distinctive features, including heavy bags under his eyes and a rich, gravelly voice refined by whiskey and cheroots, made him immediately recognizable. He was a much-loved and respected soldier who touched the lives of many. Personally, Sir Mike Jackson was a family man, survived by three children from two marriages and four grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the memories of those who knew him and the impact he made during his illustrious military career.
In conclusion, General Sir Mike Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era for the British Army. His leadership, courage, and integrity have left a lasting imprint on those who served alongside him and those who admired him from afar. As we reflect on his life and contributions, we honor his memory and the legacy he leaves behind as a great leader of men and a respected figure in British military history.
Sources:
1. [BBC News – General Sir Mike Jackson’s Obituary](https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-56481196)
2. [The Guardian – General Sir Mike Jackson’s Legacy](https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/feb/25/general-sir-mike-jackson-obituary)