Major Freddie Hunn's extensive account offers a profound insight into his remarkable military service. Driven by limited job opportunities and influenced by stories from his friends, Freddie was inspired to enlist in the 12th Royal Lancers, an armoured car regiment, in 1937. Over the course of the Second World War, he served at the forefront of some of its most pivotal campaigns, from the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in France to the unforgiving deserts of North Africa. When war broke out, Freddie was deployed to France with the BEF. What began as a period of relative inactivity during the harsh winter of 1939-40 quickly turned to chaos as the German Blitzkrieg unfolded. Freddie and his regiment endured a continual retreat to the coast, witnessing the devastation of strafing Stuka attacks and aiding in the evacuation of thousands at De Panne. Freddie’s journey continued with a convoy voyage across the Atlantic to North Africa, where he became a "Desert Rat." There, he faced daily threats from shells, relentless Stuka bombings, and gruelling conditions: in particular the limited water supply. He witnessed firsthand the toll of war, as many comrades succumbed to the debilitating effects of shell shock amidst relentless bombardments. Among his extraordinary experiences were leading a daring attack on a German convoy near Benghazi and navigating a minefield in Tunisia. From the chaos of Dunkirk to the pivotal Battle of El Alamein and countless close calls, Freddie’s service was marked by extraordinary bravery and incredible luck. His reflections not only shed light on the realities of war but also pay tribute to the courage, sacrifices, and profound cost borne by those who served.

Content warning// This interview contains discussions of sensitive topics such as PTSD which some viewers may find distressing. If you are affected by these topics, please consider seeking support from a trusted person or organisation. Vikki and Chris were teenagers when they met and enjoyed a fun, loving relationship. Sadly, this changed when Chris was posted to Afghanistan. Chris’ battalion were hit badly and suffered a lot of casualties, including the death of Chris’ friend, which caused Chris to become very angry. He wanted to stay and fight rather than return home. It was a confusing and isolating time for Vikki, she didn’t know how to help Chris or have anyone to talk to. When Chris returned, Vikki noticed that he was very jumpy as well as angry and drinking a lot more. Chris’ anger escalated so much that Vikki insisted he seek help. Chris was set on a path of PTSD treatment but appointments and treatment were sporadic. He then passed all checks and was cleared for a second tour of Afghanistan. Vikki was incredibly worried about Chris but the big difference for her this time was that they were now living in married quarters so she had other wives and friends around to draw support from. When Chris returns, this time his change in behaviour is so noticeable that he is downgraded to lighter duties at work which made him angrier still. Vikki wishes that she had spoken up more and demanded help for Chris but is incredibly grateful that the birth of their son did mark a positive change in Chris’ behaviour. Chris’ discharge in 2015 was a stressful period when the family suddenly had to find somewhere to live. Thankfully they found a home through a veteran’s housing association which was a massive benefit to both as it meant they were surrounded by neighbours who could relate to their situation. Vikki also thinks being in the NHS system of treatment worked better for Chris as he could open up more rather than feeling he was letting the military down. Vikki also joined Band of Sisters where she values the support and does her best to support others too. She also wrote a poem which was chosen to be turned into a song for the Invictus Games. Vikki acknowledges there were some very dark days and is sad to think of all the ex-military personnel, and their families, left to struggle with their demons. For a long time she felt there was no one else like her but through opening up she has found incredible support and sisterhood and wants others to know they are not alone.

Colonel Robert Stewart was born into a military family on July 7 1949. He followed his father's military footsteps and joined the British Army. After training at Sandhurst, he became an infantry officer in the 1st Battalion, Cheshire Regiment. He served in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Bob's time there was difficult, including being knocked out by a brick during a riot and losing six men in the Ballykelly bombing. During his career, Bob faced many challenges, from secret missions against the IRA to leading humanitarian efforts during the Bosnian War. His time in Bosnia was marked by the horrors of mass graves and minefields. In Bosnia, he faced the challenge of a peacekeeping mission under a slow-moving UN. After the army, Bob went into politics. His time as a soldier gave him a unique view on life and politics. His interview demonstrates his strong sense of duty and how war has a lasting impact on people.