A century ago, soldiers returning from war faced a world that didn’t understand them. In 2025, despite all our progress, too many veterans still describe the same sense of dislocation, of belonging nowhere. The military helped define who I am; it instilled deeply rooted values and principles. It fostered in me a sense of identity that in no small part came from my new sense of belonging and gave me confidence in abundance. Whilst these personal qualities have helped mould me throughout my life’s journey, enabling me to draw upon reserves of determination and resilience through the uncertainties we all face, especially when transitioning out of service, I have to admit that they have also become a hindrance to who I am now. The values that once helped me thrive in a fast-paced environment of expected excellence, where average meant failure, have become a metaphorical prison, built on self-imposed standards that are, in truth, unrealistic. Holding myself to these idealised standards led

True veteran wellbeing goes beyond the absence of illness. It is about rediscovering identity, belonging, and purpose through reflection, connection, and meaningful engagement with the past to build a fulfilling life after service.

When I left the Royal Marines, I thought I was ready for civilian life. I wasn’t.