In 1952 Lesley Simpson was called up for National Service. Lesley was excited for this, as he viewed it as a way to travel the world, free of charge. Basic training took six weeks, he learnt how to fire weapons, how to march and salute, and so much more. Lesley passed his basic training and went on to join the Royal Corps of Signals. Lesley volunteered to go to Korea, as one of his good friends was stationed there. The journey took four weeks, setting off onboard the Troopship Dunera from Southampton and arriving in Kure, Japan. During the summer, Lesley remembers working from 6am to midday, with an hour for breakfast. His role as a radio mechanic was to service wireless equipment. During downtime, he went to the banks of the River Imjin to swim and play football. In the summer they wore normal fatigues (casual military uniform). When winter arrived, he remembers it getting very cold, sometimes down to -40c. They wore special boots that would keep them warm and dry, a parker that had 3 layers, and other waterproofs. Lesley recalls never being cold due to the excellent clothing. The soldiers were encouraged to write home, Lesley made sure to do this, writing home at least once a week to friends and family. Lesley’s time in Korea came to an end in November 1954, he left onboard the Troopship Asturias. He remembers finding it difficult to transition back into everyday life, but after a while was able to find a job as a junior surveyor. National service taught Lesley how to be self-sufficient and how to look after himself. In the years after national service, Lesley maintained associations with the armed forces, including Blind Veterans UK and The British Korean Veterans Association. He was offered a trip back to Korea, paid for by the Korean government. Lesley was very impressed at the state of the country, describing it as being completely rebuilt and that the standard of living was amazing.

Stephen Murtagh joined the Army at 16, determined to build a better future for himself. Serving with 5 Rifles, he trained as an infantryman before becoming a dog handler – a role that saw him forge a powerful bond with his military working dog, Chance. Together they trained in Germany and the United States before deploying to Afghanistan, where Chance played a vital role on patrols searching for improvised explosive devices.

In his interview, Stephen shares vivid memories of Army life, from the camaraderie of training to the intensity of combat operations. He speaks openly about the day he was seriously injured by an IED, losing his leg at just 18 years old, and the remarkable determination that carried him through recovery.

Beyond his service, Stephen reflects on the challenges of adapting to life after injury, his battles with mental health, and his drive to support others through new work and ambitions. His story is one of resilience, honesty, and the unbreakable bond between a soldier and his dog.