About Patrick
Lecturer • Historian • Commentator
Patrick Cordingley DSO OBE DSc FRGS is a lecturer, historian, author and commentator whose talks draw on a lifetime of leadership, exploration, travel and firsthand involvement in significant international events.
Today he is best known for delivering engaging lectures on history, Antarctica, world affairs, the importance of remembrance and international relations, combining expert insight with personal experience and a passion for storytelling.
Early life and education
Patrick was born in Dorset and educated at Sherborne School before attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
Following his commissioning into the British Army, he served in a wide range of appointments in the United Kingdom and overseas, including Cyprus, Libya, Germany and Canada.
He later attended the Army Staff College at Camberley, where he would eventually return as an instructor.
During this period, Patrick developed a lifelong fascination with Antarctica and the great age of exploration.
In 1984 he visited the Antarctic region aboard the Lindblad Explorer and became particularly interested in the life and legacy of Captain Lawrence Oates, whose story would later inspire one of his books.
A life of leadership and international experience
Patrick enjoyed a distinguished career spanning several decades, culminating in senior command appointments and significant international responsibilities.
His service took him throughout Europe, the Middle East and beyond, providing firsthand experience of leadership, diplomacy, international affairs and cultural change.
While many know him for commanding the famous Desert Rats during the First Gulf War, Patrick's experiences extend far beyond the military sphere.
Over the years he has worked alongside political leaders, military commanders, academics, broadcasters and conservationists, gaining unique insights into some of the most fascinating regions and events of modern history.
Extraordinary experiences
Patrick's lectures are enriched by a lifetime of remarkable experiences and encounters.
These include:
- Working with King Leka of Albania.
- Spending time with senior Burmese military leaders while travelling on the Irrawaddy.
- Living and working in Libya.
- Working alongside the Chilean Army during a period of political transition.
- Contributing expert evidence relating to proceedings following the massacre at Srebrenica.
- Extensive travel throughout the Mediterranean, Middle East, South America and Antarctica.
- Supporting initiatives dedicated to the protection of whales and dolphins.
- These experiences continue to provide the foundation for many of the stories and insights shared in his lectures today.
Antarctica, exploration and history
One of Patrick's enduring interests is Antarctica and the extraordinary story of human exploration.
For many years he has researched and lectured on the heroic age of Antarctic exploration, particularly the expeditions of Scott, Shackleton and Captain Oates.
His fascination with exploration, endurance and leadership under extreme conditions remains a recurring theme throughout his lectures and public speaking.
Lecturer and speaker
Patrick has delivered lectures and presentations to audiences around the world.
His audiences have included universities, historical and heritage organisations, professional institutions, travel groups, specialist tours, expedition voyages and conferences.
Known for his engaging style and thoughtful observations, Patrick combines historical knowledge, personal experience and humour to create presentations that inform, entertain and encourage discussion.
Many events conclude with lively question-and-answer sessions that often continue long after the formal lecture has ended.
Public service, heritage and remembrance
Throughout his career Patrick has remained actively involved in charitable, educational and heritage organisations.
His work has included supporting the National Memorial Arboretum, promoting remembrance and helping preserve important aspects of Britain's historical and cultural heritage.
These interests continue to influence many of his lectures and public appearances today.
HRH The Prince of Wales opens the new visitor centre at the
National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire
Patrick with HRH The Princess Royal at the opening of the Romsey War Horse Memorial
Today
Patrick lives in Salisbury, Wiltshire, with his wife Melissa and continues to pursue his lifelong interests in history, exploration, international affairs and travel.
Together they enjoy travelling extensively, discovering new places and returning to many of the regions that have shaped Patrick's lectures over the years.
They also enjoy spending time with their two daughters and grandchildren, who provide a welcome balance to Patrick's professional commitments and continuing programme of lectures and events.
Patrick with his wife Melissa
Closer to home, Patrick enjoys cycling, tennis and spending time in the countryside, while remaining actively involved in heritage, educational and charitable organisations.
He continues to lecture to audiences around the world on subjects ranging from Antarctica and exploration to world affairs, remembrance and the remarkable people and places he has encountered throughout his life.
Whether speaking aboard expedition voyages, at historical societies, universities, conferences or special events, Patrick remains passionate about sharing stories, experiences and insights that help audiences better understand the world around them.