Key People

"In a world where it is increasingly difficult to find international consensus on any geopolitical issue, Kosovo reminds us that it is possible for the international community to come together to help make headway towards a more positive outcome in countries ridden by interethnic conflict."

General Sir Nick Carte

General Sir Michael David Jackson, GCB, CBE, DSO, DL, was a prominent British Army officer and one of the most high-profile generals since World War II. He began his military career in 1963, commissioned into the Intelligence Corps, before transferring to the Parachute Regiment in 1970. Sadly, he passed away on 15 October 2024, before the opening of this exhibition.

Jackson first served in the Balkans in 1995-1996, commanding a multinational division of the Implementation Force. After a staff role in the UK, he was appointed commander of NATO's Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) in 1997. During the Kosovo War, Jackson gained notoriety for refusing an order from U.S. General Wesley Clark to block Pristina Airport’s runways and isolate Russian forces. His famous reply, "I'm not going to start the Third World War for you," drew controversy, particularly in the U.S., and earned him the nickname "Macho Jacko" in the British press.

Jackson later formed a working relationship with the Russian Commander, gifting him whisky and assigning British soldiers, led by his son Mark, to protect the Russian contingent. He rose to full general, becoming Commander-in-Chief, Land Command, and later Chief of the General Staff in 2003. His passing will be honoured in both Kosovo and the UK.

Many of the images on display tell the story of Sergeant Simon Valentine, known as ‘Val’ to his friends, who served with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in Kosovo.

Born in April 1980 in Bedworth, Warwickshire, Simon was the middle child of Carol Valentine. In May 1997, Simon joined the Army, completing basic training and joining the 2nd Battalion in Celle, Germany, an armoured infantry unit equipped with Warrior fighting vehicles. 

In 1999, Simon was selected to deploy to Kosovo with the Royal Highland Fusiliers. He was promoted to Lance Corporal on his return and redeployed to Kosovo in 2000. After completing sniper training, Simon moved to North Luffenham and served in Northern Ireland.

In 2002, he married his school friend, Gemma. After Northern Ireland, he served in Iraq, Cyprus, and Hounslow before deploying to Afghanistan with 2nd Battalion The Rifles. Tragically, Simon was killed on 15 August 2009 by an explosion while on foot patrol in Helmand province.

He is fondly remembered by his Regiment and all who knew him.