Uncommon Courage

Uncommon Courage: The Yachtsmen Volunteers of World War II tells the remarkable true story of a group of civilian sailors – writers, lawyers, artists and adventurers – who volunteered for war through the Royal Naval Volunteer Supplementary Reserve (RNVSR). Drawn from Julia Jones’ personal discovery of her father’s wartime accounts, this is an absorbing and deeply personal history.

These men, united by a love of the sea, found themselves in destroyers, submarines, minesweepers and covert operations, taking on roles far beyond their expectations. From intelligence missions and sabotage to high-speed skirmishes and mine clearance, their bravery, resourcefulness and quick thinking shaped vital aspects of the naval war effort.

Jones traces their stories with warmth and precision, exploring not only what they endured, but how their love of sailing withstood – or was shaped by – the brutal realities of war. Rich with archive material and firsthand testimony, this is a powerful account of quiet heroism and the human cost of conflict.

Table of Contents

• 23 chapters based on direct quotes from wartime reflections
• Endnotes, Acknowledgements, Bibliography and Index

About the Author

Julia Jones is a writer, editor and classic yacht owner. She is the Literary Contributor for Yachting Monthly and author of the acclaimed Strong Winds sailing adventure series. Her father served in the RNVSR, and his legacy inspired this moving work of rediscovery.

Praise for Uncommon Courage

“An extraordinary account of heroism and sacrifice... rivetingly told. Rip roaring stuff. Get this into the paws of the sea dog in your life.”
– Griff Rhys Jones

“This is a magnificent portrait of men at war and a most scholarly history.”
– Country Life

“Jones describes ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances... but does not allow the picturesque to distract from the gruelling realities.”
– The Tablet

“Jones writes with vim and vigour... a continuously astonishing book.”
– The Spectator

“A good book that offers a welcome insight and turns the spotlight anew on some of the forgotten men of a terrible conflict.”
– Sailing Today