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Long John Joined: Jan-16-2016 |
Reflecting on my written works, I see they encapsulate my experiences in the British Army from 1970 to 1996. My service took me to various global locations, from Northern Ireland during the Troubles to Belize and the Swiss Mountains. I also trained with the American Marines in Florida. Each deployment, including a challenging six-month world cruise, tested and strengthened my resilience.
Raised in Nottinghamshire, I found comfort in the simplicity of my temporary homes during service, from tents to holes in the ground. My writings represent the camaraderie, friendships, and darker realities of conflict I experienced. They honour my fellow soldiers and their supportive families, offering a glimpse into a soldier's life.
These stories and poems are my way of making sense of my experiences, and although my service has ended, they serve as a lasting legacy of sacrifice and resilience.
