Early Years
Youde was born Penarth, Wales in the United Kingdom and attended the University of London's School of Oriental and African Studies.
In 1949, Youde was serving on the frigate HMS Amethyst amidst the Chinese Civil War when it came under attack by People's Liberation Army forces. The frigate was heavily damaged by artillery fire and became stranded in the Yangtze River. Using his skills in Mandarin, Youde negotiated with the PLA commander to secure the release of the Amethyst. Following the Amethyst's escape from enemy territory, Youde was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his actions.
Read more about this topic: Edward Youde
Famous quotes containing the words early and/or years:
“No two men see the world exactly alike, and different temperaments will apply in different ways a principle that they both acknowledge. The same man will, indeed, often see and judge the same things differently on different occasions: early convictions must give way to more mature ones. Nevertheless, may not the opinions that a man holds and expresses withstand all trials, if he only remains true to himself and others?”
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