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.

Born and raised in Bristol and with his heart set on wanting to serve with the RAF, John Skene actually found himself serving with the Army on the frontlines of WWII. After finishing his basic training, John's story begins in Yorkshire, he talks about the tactics used by British defences when preparing a coastline for invasion. Follow John's story as he travels from France to Burma fighting the Axis forces across the world. Learn about the unique and often highly dangerous strategies of the British Army which almost result in John's death; the exotic illnesses faced by soldiers while fighting abroad; and just how much damage a single cigarette can do.