John: A Sailor's Story

In this third and final blog from an older veteran marking the 40th anniversary of the Falklands Conflict, we hear from John, a Royal Navy recruit.
Here is his story:

I joined the Royal Navy at 16 ½.  Six months later the Falklands war started. My ship was in refit, so we had to rip scaffolding off her in the dockyard.  We arrived the day HMS Coventry and the SS Atlantic Conveyor got hit. Age 17 you are full of bravado and don’t really think about it.

I compartmentalised the experience.  The following year I was back in the Falklands on patrol. A friend, who had been on HMS Sheffield, was in a bad way when we sailed over that ship’s grave, so I comforted him.  Only years later, seeing a picture of him in a care home with dementia, did it really register. Wee things bring back memories.  That’s when you need support from veterans with a shared experience.

I made a career of the Navy and thoroughly enjoyed return trips to the Falklands. The islanders are so grateful – I’ve never had to buy a pint in Stanley!  I left in 2004 and cut my ties with the Armed Forces.  12 years later I was invited to an ex-service dinner, and from that got involved with Legion Scotland.  I made new friends, even some from the Army!  I was very happy.

I volunteer with Legion Scotland and thoroughly enjoy it.  Talking with veterans makes it easier to reflect.  The ex-service community will be a big part of my life as I get older as it’s where I’m most comfortable. I had an issue with the demon alcohol.  I’m doing alright now, but I need the support of the veterans community to keep me in a happy place.

40 years on, I still believe we did the right thing.  During Covid, a woman from the islands started crocheting in Falklands medal ribbon colours and others, there and in the UK, joined in. More than 3000 of us Falklands veterans now have a scarf, a beanie or teddy bear. It raises funds for the Falklands Islands Veterans Association and shows support from the whole community.  That means a lot.