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Repton School has played host to a number of notable visitors and speakers throughout its lengthy history. But perhaps one of the most meaningful to the School was the 1954 visit of Field Marshall Montgomery. The war hero visited Repton School on a rainy Thursday that July, but the weather was not enough to dampen the spirits of the students and their families who were fortunate enough to meet and listen to Field Marshall Montgomery’s inspiring words.
Field Marshall Montgomery’s Lasting Legacy
Considered one of the most well-known British commanders during the Second World War, Field Marshal Montgomery has been lauded for his contributions to freedom. His foresight and tactical prowess made him one the of greatest leaders in the military at the time. His savvy for tactical retreat helped save lives during the evacuation that took place in the battle of Dunkirk in 1941.
He went on to lead British forces against Italian and German attacks in North Africa, bolstering troop morale and leading to a turning pit in the war that raged in the campaign there. In 1944, Field Marshall Montgomery continued to make his mark by leading the ground troops for the Allied forces who invaded Normandy in June, leading to successful suppression of German forces.
In recognition of his achievements, he was named 1st Viscount of Alamein. His colleagues noted that he was often unlikeable in character but incredibly successful in his career efforts, largely because of the directness of his personality. Despite any gruffness, his compatriots during the Second World War admired his accomplishments. U.S. General Dwight D. Eisenhower said of Montgomery, “I have great confidence in him as a combat commander.” And Winston Churchill perhaps put it best: “In defeat, unbeatable; in victory, unbearable.”
Field Marshall Montgomery’s 1954 Visit to Repton School
It was this larger-than-life character and national hero that took the stage on a rainy July afternoon at Repton School in 1954. The day started with his review of the Corps, which included a march-past and a variety of demonstrations to display the vast training and skills of the Corps members. These included both simple foot drills and marches as well as more complex arms and foot drills. One can imagine how nervous yet proud these cadres must have felt on display for such an important personage.
Following the presentation and drills, the Repton School Headmaster, Theodore Lynam Thomas shared what a true honour it was to have this hero in their presence, him having “brought about that miraculous transformation in the fortunes of British arms in the autumn of 1942” with the surrender at Luneburg Heath. It was the greatest compliment that Repton School could think of to have Field Marshall Montgomery visit them, with the lasting effect of the war still fresh in the minds of so many.
Field Marshall Montgomery then took to the microphone to speak to everyone in attendance. He complimented what he had seen on review of the Corps earlier, noting that “I have seen a good many soldiers in my time, and I have seen a great many school corps, but I cannot recall that I have seen a better one than I have seen to-day.” He went on to address the students, “You are extremely good on parade, and I thought what you did afterwards in demonstration was very good.”
He also went on to address the parents in attendance at the event, who had joined to witness both their children and the hero in action together. He spoke about the true meaning on an education. While examinations, are important, he emphasised that “the boy goes to school to have his character developed, to acquire wisdom, and to find his own level in a bigger community.” While students can have the foundations of their character laid at home and among their closest family and friends, it is through independence and education that he truly develops into the man he is destined to become. The environment at Repton School was meant to compliment the work done by parents in creating a “thoroughly decent person” out of the young boys in attendance.
Field Marshall Montgomery also emphasised the importance of developing truth and courage. He noted that he wanted nothing to do with boys or men who could not speak the truth. But anyone who could be honest both with themselves and with others was welcome. This integrity was essential, he charged, to do good in life. Courage paired well with truth. Knowing your own truth, you have to have the bravery to do what is right no matter what or who you are facing. Finally, he encouraged the students to bring enthusiasm to life and to their studies, always looking to add to what they were also taking from.
The visit had a clear impact on all in attendance, including Field Marshall Montgomery himself: “This is my first visit to Repton, and I would very much like to come back some time and see a bit more of the life you lead… I was very pleased with the steadiness of the parade. It is a great thing when soldiers stand steady on parade. If they stand steady on parade, they will stand steady in battle, and in life generally."
About Repton School
Repton School is a co-educational independent school for boarding and day pupils aged between 13-18. The School’s values of respect, wholeness, truth, and excellence create a foundation designed to inspire wellness and development for students from all walks of life. Aims in critical, socially conscious, and confident thought help cultivate skills in teamwork, leadership, and resilience that can equip students to thrive beyond graduation.
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