BEING WOUNDED - MY STORY

[@cyanidesteve]

I don’t usually watch these stories but today I watched this one. I was in The RAF in the early eighties. At that time RAF Halton was a hospital for the military as I had been there. What annoys me is on your return you were admitted to a NHS hospital without any liaison officers or fresh clothes and wash stuff and presumably money. You were at risk in a civvy hospital especially in your combats as you don’t know who is watching , you were lucky that your boss arranged transport home as going by public transport could have a negative affect on your injury. I hope you continue to recover, a great story.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Steve 🫡👍

[@MOGGY7912]

thank you for your story

[@danielmalthouse4429]

Brilliant video. Very interesting. Thanks

[@Greg23032]

Can’t believe the way you were treated Keith, how the system has deteriorated since I left in 1991. For Gulf War 1 back in UK we did massive prep for receiving casualties. Airports and hospitals throughout southern England stood-by. I was nominated as a Medical Liaison Officer (WO1) at a standby airport in case RAF Airports were fogbound. I was even given a Hire Car for the job. Sorting out all those aggravating problems you experienced was my job. Luckily we were never activated due to so few casualties.

[@A.Mardle]

BAOR expected to take 10% casualties per day if the Warsaw Pact had invaded West Germany in the 1980s. There were some well rehearsed systems in place for dealing with a flow of tens of thousands of wounded. The systems were still in place during GW1.

[@Plumduff3303]

Thank you for sharing keith what a fantastic channel this is, and thanks for sharing hats off to all wherever or whoever you served with. Respect to you all.❤

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers my friend I appreciate your kind words 🙏

[@bgg-jp5ei]

I hope Bliar sees this. But even if he did he would not care

[@stevenmanning6884]

Great story of your experience and your medivac journey out of theatre back to the UK. Thankyou for your service Sgt Maj.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you for your support 👍

[@tommy4244]

A great story. Thank you for sharing.

[@JohnJudge-p7p]

Keith you should write a autobiography would be best seller

[@grenfellroad8394]

Massive respect to all our troops that serve and have served. I hope the care has come along way since your experience. Take care.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

I'm sure it has now since the two middle east campaigns

[@chromiumphotography5138]

Could spend all day listening to stories like this. Told in a great way, watch out Mark Felton!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you very much, Im very humbled by your kind words. Thank you for your support.

[@ivorduke3575]

Brilliant fascinating good on you .

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you 👍

[@adrianroberts7996]

That was a horrible tour Keith. I remember it well. Thanks for sharing your experience. It all helps with processing things from that time for me. Thank you.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers Adrian, were we at Abu Naji together? It's a long time ago now and I've forgotten many names apologies

[@adrianroberts7996]

20 years met. Still feels raw. We were attached to your BG in Abu Naji. A Coy RWF. Spent some time at Cimmic, Coote, and the prison. Keep doing the videos met. Your positive perspective on this world is music to me. ❤

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

@@adrianroberts7996 I remember your lads with us. What a Tour that was

[@kellyjune1931]

Not at all a boring story, very interesting and, for me anyway, I feel extremely embarrassed about your treatment. As you say, on the C17 the medical staff were spot on - well done them. I'm very unhappy about your treatment back home, you may not want it or feel it's not needed but, we should be proud and "go out of our way" to see people like you straight. Really, something as simple as a bloody blanket for a patient, be it a civvy or a serviceman/ Woman well, how bloody pathetic is that! Thank heavens for people like your old CO. Great video, some of us are still very proud of you and your like, thanks for the insight into your service, keep up the great videos - all the best.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Hi Kelly, thank you. I'm pretty sure that things picked up for the better after my experience, well I'd like to think they did. Thank you for your support and kind words, it's very much appreciated. All the best.

[@howardcopestake1036]

I was wounded in NI in a petrol bomb ambush in Londonderry. The Ned’s had a wonderful way of hitting the Humber pig with about 3 or 4 unlit petrol bomb made with a mix of piss and sugar just to make it fun for the recipient then they lob a lit one into create a concussion. The RUC (bless them) had me and my mate up to Altnagelvin and we spent that night we were under guard. From there I was medevaced to Woolwich and slapped into the severe burns unit. I was released to my parents custody and a week later my wife and two kids were brought home from Lisburn where we had been living. She had been treated like royalty. There then followed skin rebuilding and shock and trauma treatment for the next three months. After that I was taken off the Y list and was allowed to return to my unit in NI. I didn’t start getting the PTSD until about 10 years later as I was leaving the army. Your experience brings back many memories…….but I survived, as you did mate. The happy ending was that as being down graded I was posted to a NATO unit in the American sector babysitting a “switch” for the last 8 years of my service…..BX privelidges 10% more LOA and all the facilities of the good old US forces, glad you got over it, hope your handling the PTSD

[@kevthedev9541]

I remember those from 'working the line' on riot control in Armargh back in the mid 80s. I was just in and only 19. A real eye opener, they had 'players' in balaclavas spotting while kids of 10 or 11 threw the bloody bombs at us. Our Pig was hit square on the right flank a few days later, we had the blocks open as was hot and coupled with a breakdown in comms, some sod got up close and personal to us, and most of the cocktail got past the open blocks and sprayed us all inside....it felt like all of the oxygen was burned away in seconds and we ended up de-bussing, smouldering and all of us minus eyebrows....they say that 'Adrenaline is a brown liquid that runs down the inside of your leg?'...to true on that occaision!

[@samrodian919]

@@howardcopestake1036 as the Ameicans say, "Thank you for your service", Howard. I've never heard the Irish referred to as "Ned's" before but it only took half a second to work it out!

[@samrodian919]

@@fayemccormack9189 yes named Kelly!

[@alanmillward2812]

What a story, sounds like you had good contacts who came good, how many were not so fortunate, keep it up mucker

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Yes we had a hell of a tour

[@264Rockape]

You're a legend. Keep on tabbing. Love your videos. ❤

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you very much.

[@wallbars8684]

Fantastic story Keith and thank goodness for your old Colonel showing up at the hospital, that must have lifted your spirits and good on him for sending his driver to get you home. You mentioned about feeling disoriented when you got back to your office in camp and not being able to open your MFO box. That’s just how I felt when we returned to camp in Germany in ‘91 after the Gulf-totally disoriented and surreal after being in the desert with all those bombs going off everywhere and waiting to get zapped by Saddam. Going on leave to uk shortly after was even more surreal. Thanks for your videos, really enjoying your insights 👍

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you for sharing your story, I'm glad I wasn't the only one who had issues like that, thank you for your support

[@xl51956]

Having been injured in the first gulf War your experience was basically disgusting to hear.. I knew having left the military in 1994 and living in Scandinavia when the lads went again into Iraq with that man Blair at the helm. We the UK were in trouble I was more nervous for the guys and girls than at any time in my own career it saddened me so much knowing that we were not ready after all the huge cutbacks of manpower and equipment.. I was simply angry all the time with the casualty reports.. Good to hear your story and pleased that all turned well in the end I enjoyed the podcast ... Keep tabbing it's good therapy as well, as you get older yer don't need too do so much running.. But be careful on the hips .. 😊😊😊

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you for commenting. I definitely don't run anywhere these days, just a gentle bimble 😀

[@mikeyates1730]

Very good , walking through a nice rural scene makes it more poignant. Thanks

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you. It is beautiful countryside here, I try and make the most of it.

[@Bilbo107]

Thank you for sharing your very personal story Sgt Major. Who could be bored listening, it was cracking. I'm glad that things have improved, like the new Veterans only section of Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt at Gobowen, Shropshire. You deserve more. Regards

[@fredblogs]

I hope things have improved, but I doubt It.

[@nigelsutton9073]

I remember the state you were in when you got home. Just really glad to see you recovered. The system let you down badly, no question.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Yes that's right Nigel you were there for a few days helping out, can't thank you enough for the support you afforded myself and the family.

[@stefanrobinson2920]

Its always interesting for me to hear a military mans story thanks for talking about it

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

No worries and thank you

[@ianhawkins4855]

i was just waiting for you to say "I WAS WOUNDED IN MY UPPER THIGH!!! NOT MY ARSE"!!!!!!

[@railworker8058]

I survived the Falklands war without a scratch, two tours of NI, Yugo, and finally got fragged by the Yanks in Iraq. 4 surgeries, ten months of rehab and permanent pain. The worst thing, other than nights awake in agony, is surviving when my mates didn’t. Then I feel glad that I hurt. Life is pretty fucked.

[@YvonneCairns-c9u]

Thank fk the British forces aren't as gun ho.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thats some operational career you had there. Sorry to hear you still have struggles. Take care Brother.

[@railworker8058]

@@LetsTab59-bd4fd 9 Para M8

[@nickmander6088]

OMG that was one hell of a cathartic journey Boss. When I was doing my bit for queen and country, during training we were given an acronym to remember called the 5 P’s. Planning Prevents Piss poor performance, seemingly you suffered greatly and unnecessarily due to others not following the 5 P’s ethos, thank god that someone was switched on and discovered your neck was fubard otherwise you could have been paralysed, and that ain’t the sort of Para you want to be. I solute you Sir, kind regards Nick.🫡

[@NickMusselle]

BTW you are not boring. thanks

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Nick

[@paulbennie5690]

Fascinating story. Thanks for sharing.

[@mrspudly1]

Amazing story Keith which also highlights the true horror of war.

[@Martinthehun59]

My admiration Keith... One journey that was RSM.. 👍

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

It was rough at times

[@petehall889]

Thank you for sharing your experience of being wounded and ultimate return to duty. Really interesting. Good to see your hamster clinging to your fleece too!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

My hamster 🤣👍🫡

[@daniellee8565]

Very interesting story, which I enjoyed hearing and have no trouble believing, having served myself. The system is truly ludicrous at times. During Op Granby my life was miraculously spared from death or serious injury by an invisible power. My only wounds from my service are psychological, after all the mistreatment, bullying and undeserved ROP's. However, I still have a scar and a dead tooth after being hit over the head by a Captain with a Bass Broom. The nail, attaching head to handle gashed under my left eye. I still feel anger to this day towards Major Barry Bennett, OC 1st Fld Sqn RE Nienburg, for awarding the broom as a trophy to the Captain, Robert McCann the AO, for doing it.

[@johnnunn8688]

WOW, sue the prick!

[@matthewjenkins5436]

Keith, Sir What a Journey you had from start to finish, Biff Chit and Brufen for a Broken Neck. British Army at its Best . All Jokes aside they got you sorted in the end . RAF DUST OFF got you home safe, Thanks for the Story . Yanks have a Purple Heart for this but that is another story. All the best Sapper Jenks.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers Jenks all the best mate 👍

[@ChrisAddis]

100% agree with you. One or two of our lads experienced similar issues with information link up between civi response and the military med services. I think the system from Northern Ireland days had been forgotten due to our lack of sustained operations up until that point. Thankfully, things seem to have improved since my day. All the best to you.

[@lordlucan7655]

What a great story . Truly shows the difference of respect between military personnel and civilians. It also shows that most military’s across the globe are not perfect .

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

🫡👍

[@lordlucan7655]

@@LetsTab59-bd4fd I served 1990 ‘s FFL mainly Yougoslavia and South America . I got seriously injured in a zodiac accident . From highly fit to ripped to pieces in a few seconds . What hurt the most was that long psychological battle back to fitness . The scars still remain years later as does The camaraderie I experienced helping me back to my feet ( literally) . People think the worlds biggest and most expensive armies are the best , but what makes every unit special is the bond between its members .

[@Bronbeek328]

That was quite a story. Thanks for sharing.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thanks for listening

[@andrewphillips3791]

Love it.

[@ianperry9914]

Thanks for the story Keith , very interesting insight , I had the same injury as you and that shoulder , ultrasound was used on it and did help !

[@geofschofield7963]

Definitely NOT boring, I found it very educational 👍

[@Karencopley]

Another interesting chat never boring 👍

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Karen 👍

[@truthforever5508]

Thank you so much for telling us your experience. So interesting. What an amazing Colonel you had. He obviously had so much respect for you and vice versa. Keep telling us your stories and the videos. Not the least bit boring. If your Colonel hadn’t stepped in it would have been a horrendous time for you to reach home. As you say it makes you wonder what other wounded soldiers have experienced. It is certainly not the treatment any soldier fighting for his country should have to experience. It is just not right. Thank you for serving your country and keep giving us the videos. 👏

[@johnnunn8688]

That was shocking, the way you were treated, Keith. Such a shame that all of the military hospitals have been binned. I’m sure you would have been treated better at Wroughton and suchlike.

[@geoff64709]

Very interesting account of your treatment and recovery sir im sure there's loads more been through the same , im ex infantry woofer 👍

[@roybrookes9433]

Hi Keith Sir. I don’t think it is a case of looking sympathy. It is good for You to share with people that have been in a similar situation. Like You said in a previous video about the “Not Forgotten society “ being with people who have been through similar situations can help with recovery as you realize your not the only person that feels the same way after being “theatre “ . Thank you for sharing.🎉🎉 🎉🎉 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@julianbrown8572]

Great video, thanks for sharing.

[@stephenwilkinson1349]

Thank you for sharing your carefully told story. I only did a 'long weekend' (5 years) as a Shiny in the RAF & obviously saw no action. I was given a choice (1968) between Ballykelly or Newton (Nottingham). I chose Newton & led a quiet life. My son (REME, 24 years, WO1) had a different experience: NI, 'Yugoslavia', Iraq, Afghan & only suffered 'self-inflicted' stuff. Best wishes.

[@pauldavidson3705]

Not boring at all, very interesting just how unprepared we were. Great channel

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Paul, glad you're still watching my channel mate, its much appreciated.

[@laurenced2916]

The septics have the purple heart medal when their troops are wounded or killed in action. I think we should have a similar award over here.

[@Dog.soldier1950]

Agreed

[@tonywatson1412]

No...my dad had enough of yanks in wwii. Told me they got medals for pissing straight...usa medals and BS ...soldiers expect to get hurt ...its part of the job...Want to be unhurt , get a job in asda

[@barrypooley3192]

Really enjoyed your story and appreciate the time you take to give us your insights on your service thanks it must have been good because you kept me interested rite to the end cheers Sargent major 👏👏👏💯💯🍻🍻

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Barry that's very kind of you 👍🫡

[@michaelamos4651]

Thanks for sharing your story Keith. So interesting. Thanks again

[@brianneedham9710]

What a story Keith and well done for sharing it. How unprepared are us Brits when it comes to looking after our servicemen and women? Interesting to see how we look after each other though when the government fail. Highlights the comradeship inherent in our armed forces beautifully. A great video - please keep on doing more of them. Thank you for your service to our country! 🫡🇬🇧

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you for your support Brian 👍 much appreciated

[@barneykennett9282]

Col Kemp sounds like a stand up guy...👍.

[@paulbeddow1051]

I had a C4/5 neck injury a few years ago, but I am now downgraded but now have a different mindset.

[@pmac798]

Thanks for sharing your story Keith, hope they learnt some lesson's. I was injured on exercise back in the early 80's couldn't fault the treatment I received. I really enjoy the channel, keep em coming 😊

[@brianhanmer885]

Well Keith what a story keeping me out of bed more than worth it so well put over just delivered at the tempo brilliant all best deep respect

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you very much 🍻

[@eckythump7209]

Just discovered your channel - it is great! Keep up the good work. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Well done for coming through it. I was wounded in Afghanistan. I was at a forward base and Terry would send a few mortar rounds over during the day then bugger off. They were generally pretty bad shots thankfully. Our lads would respond and we would do it all over again the next day. Anyway as luck would have it they managed to lob a few a bit more precisely as I was sat on my helmet impressing all and sundry with my wit and wisdom. In my defence it was a bloody hot day. I was relatively fortunate and only caught some shrapnel in the side of my head. It required a plastic surgeon to fix the mess up and give me a mini face lift once all the bits were dug out of me. My standing joke is that I am much younger on the right side of my face but only have half an ear. A small price to pay. Could have been a lot worse.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you for your support and kind words. You really went through some crap out there, easy wound, I know, like me, you'll say there were many lads a lot worse off than yourself, we all tend to say that. Glad you're ok, all the best.

[@eckythump7209]

@@LetsTab59-bd4fd Thanks mate. It means a lot. I do say to the wife that a lot of the lads had a terrible time of it and sustained horrid injuries. I just got lucky. Sometimes I feel I should have had the worst of it rather than them as am a stubborn bugger and can handle it. Fighting cancer now. Just another campaign as far as I am concerned. At least I know my enemy. Every day above ground is a good day. You take care of yourself and keep posting.

[@JohnGBlackBelt53]

Thanks for sharing mate. A very sensitive and good topic to talk about.

[@CanadairCL44]

Keith, I could listen to your experiences all day mate! I've heard about Selly Oak and most of it is not good.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you for your support 👍

[@charlietreston4035]

Amazing video thanks Keith much respect.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Charlie

[@marcobrian1619]

Sir.....your story touched me, but you was pointing out the falls in the system after you came out of the armed services care and into general nhs care.... Thank you for your sacrifices you gave to help keep us safe.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

That's very kind of you and much appreciated.

[@marcobrian1619]

@LetsTab59-bd4fd sir, I'm nearly 50, alot of my family have served . So iv alot of respect regarding rank.... Some how I think I made wrong decisions leaving school....service or farming..... Again thank you sir

[@petersmithm9]

I remember being treated for various injuries and illnesses at different Army, RAF and Naval hospitals in the 70s/80s. Total disgrace they were done away with.

[@stevehedgecock2560]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, at what must have been a difficult time for you and your family. Hope your condition improves or at least more bearable. All the best Kieth. I look forward to your next video.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Steve, yes the hearing loss is obviously gone for good, the neck pain is unfortunately never going away.

[@-GCHQ-]

A really eye opening story. I spent 6yrs of my career at Risborough Bks, so it's really sad to see it as a civvie housing estate now.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

I was gutted when I went back earlier this year and saw Risborough Bks.

[@-GCHQ-]

@@LetsTab59-bd4fd it's incredible, but not in a good way. Living locally I'm really sentimental about Shorncliffe Garrison. You can just about make out the old Officer's Mess at Risborough which is now converted to flats, but still called 'The Officer's Mess'. 😢

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

@-GCHQ- my office and training wing was building 1, first building on the right as you entered the bks, and I see the Commanders Mess from my window.

[@-GCHQ-]

​@@LetsTab59-bd4fdI remember that building being used by the CTT and BRT from memory.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

@-GCHQ- I was the RSM of 2 BSTT, (1999 - 2006).

[@retonooze]

Really, really good video Keith. Gave me an excellent insight into experience of the wounded soldier. Well done in sharing this with everyone.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you 👍

[@PeterCrowe1966]

Thanks for sharing Keith, it’s very interesting and informative. I do think the powers that be should treat injured service personnel better than your experience but I can’t say I am totally surprised at what you went through. I know you don’t want sympathy but you have my respect. Thank you again, sir.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Peter, it was an incredible Tour of duty.

[@WilliamStacey-r6i]

Nice one , great storey dripping is a navy thing you done it well😆thank you ,cheers TAS ape Royal Navy

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

🫡🥃

[@dobbo4596]

Very interesting, respect to you and the men and women of our armed forces 😎👍

[@michaelsuggitt1093]

A great story and totally believable. An old Sapper ex Aden 1967

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers Michael

[@baz7344]

Never boring Keith & thanks for sharing a traumatic experience sad to hear that a nurse in a hospital couldn’t rustle up a blanket for you. She probably couldn’t find sand on a beach either! 😢 Glad the Colonel’s driver was allowed to give you a proper ride home & his boss was obviously the best kind of true friend. 👍 You’ll never have to worry about anyone asking you to ‘give your head a wobble’ again … it’s been done & you’ve got the T-shirt! Now there’s a thought? 💭 🤔 🙂 All the best mate!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

@@baz7344 👍 brilliant Baz, cheers mate

[@crow7291]

Obviously in combat casualties happen, but the treatment after is key, to let a soldier out with no way to get home is not what i would want for any soldier serving there country. Think its disgusting that you or any soldier should be treated in such a shameful way. Thats just my opinion.

[@EricOconnell-j5r]

Keith ..thanks for a true explanation what happened when came back...sounds awesome... Bishops stortford Herts UK..

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers Eric 🫡👍

[@michaeltate8017]

Respect from 1980s Sapper

[@adrianbanks2089]

Thanks For The Sunday Update ! I Was in Aden in 1966 it was a Dump ? ( i Was Working For B.P at The Time )😊

[@franhaw3019Ireland]

My dad worked for BP in 1966 but he was in Libya??

[@buzsalmon]

Well, Sir, despite the fact you were wounded, it seems to me you were lucky that it was not far worse! And, lucky once again that the LtCol cared for you as he did. Enough to visit you in hospital with his wife and later to have his driver take you home. It's a good and interesting story, Keith . I'm sorry you are left with pain. Sincerely sorry.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Yes Buz I was one of the lucky ones, I'm all in one piece and happy to have made it through my service.

[@buzsalmon]

I understand. Glad you were too my friend!​@LetsTab59-bd4fd

[@freedom5716]

Hello Sir I was there on Telic four i know Cimic house A coy 1RWF were attached to you I myself was just Just 19 years old it was my first operational tour now I'm almost 40 and carry all the memories of multiple tours of Telic and Herrick. I'm an avid follower of your channel thanks for doing what you do and what you have done much appreciated.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

We've chewed the same dirt brother 🫡🪖🇬🇧respect 🙏

[@freedom5716]

That we have brother and if I close my eyes and really concentrate I can manifest the smell of Iraq if you know what I mean.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

@freedom5716 funny you should mention that smell. I had a rather strange experience about 2 years after coming back from Iraq. I took my pick up truck to a garage to get its air-conditioning recharged. When it was sorted I was driving back to Aldershot and turned it on full to test it, as soon as it got going it smelled like I was back out there. I had to pull off the road, switch off the aircon and have a moment to myself. Really strange and it's never happened again.

[@freedom5716]

I suppose smells are also memories mate like I said when I think of a particular street in Az Zubayr the smell hits me like I'm there crazy man.

[@72Bigray]

Another great cast pal... hope all ok now

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you and yes all good 👍

[@Jean-MarcBordeaux]

I could about understand what you was talking about being French if you was American you get a purple heart, Very interesting hearing all the detail. I hope you are well they say peoples injuries catch up with them as time goes on, I really do wish you well, Haven't been around in the comments as I been helping at home,

[@laurenced2916]

Got the book Sniper One by Sgt Dan Mills. He and his snipers were based at Cimic house in 2004 and the house really took a hammering from incoming mortars.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Yes I know Dan, he was writing a second book and wanted to use my story of being wounded along with all the others. I visited CIMIC House from Abu Naji while I was there it was an experience.

[@TheJon2442]

Having been a Welfare Officer and then a CVO, things have gotten a lot better.... Sadly sometimes people don't do their jobs......

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Jon, you must have witnessed some very haunting events in that time, not an easy task I imagine.

[@TheJon2442]

@@LetsTab59-bd4fd especially when you get that phone call late at night. From JCCC.. on the next flight out of theatre!!!!.. However, as a Welfare Officer. I never lost anyone... Even those who wanted to commit the worst injury upon themselves or on 6 month old kids!! Keith always listen to your tales. However, sadly I can't due to in confidence. Edit share my stories..

[@CoarseFisher15]

You are a very interesting character Keith

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

That's very kind of you to say thank you

[@mickhorsley3169]

We all know the forces can do some great work in repatriating and treating urgent and wounded cases. It just makes it all the more shocking when that system fails.

[@stuartbrown8259]

Very interesting story of getting casevaced. As i mentioned a few videos ago about my experiences, not wounded in theatre or anything, i caught some virus. Anyway, to add to my story, when they eventually decided to ship me over to the mainland UK for treatment, i recall them putting me in an ambulance at Musgrave in Belfast, to get me to Aldergrove for the flight over. A bit like you, hadn't a clue where I was going to end up when I got there. So i arrived at Aldergrove, Med Centre for assessment to fly. Some RAF doctor checked me over, bear in mind i was paralysied from the neck down 😮. Apparently whoever had arranged all this, had believe it or not, had booked me on a normal civvy flight to Heathrow? When he found out, he blew his lid. So phone calls were made and i was returned to Musgrave in Belfast. A new casevac was arranged, so i was able to tell my missus etc. On the appointed day, the ward doors opened, a team of RAF doctors, nurses etc came in. They explained what was going to happen. They had with them, all their equipment, monitors, you name it. They took a load of blood, tested it straight away with whatever kit they had, decided i was fit to fly. Soon after, a puma helicopter turned up just for me. Was taken out to the Heli pad, and loaded onto the chopper to go to Aldergrove, all them doctors etc, were on it as well. When at Aldergrove, straight onto the Herc, strapped onto the hooks or whatever they were called. Then flown over to Brize. As they were still sucking my blood, as apparently it's different at altitude, never knew that. Was chatting away with the nurses etc, one was French RAF equivalent, she was lovely btw, on an exchange with our lot. Whilst chatting with others, one doctor explained to me that the team on board were a dedicated casevec team, so this was like a training, for real exercise of what was supposed to happen should troops need to be casevaced from any theatre back to the UK. Was a very interesting experience for me, bit surreal tbh, i had no clue they even existed. Sort of relates to your story how you got back home. I do believe from what I've heard from those getting casevaced from Afghanistan, my experience was rather similar to how things were done for them to get home to the UK. I suppose the system was in place, with casevac teams etc, but Iraq for you, was never really tested due to the numbers involved. As I've said, i believe they had sorted their act out a lot better for getting the troops home from when Afghanistan really kicked off. Catch you on the next one.

[@poulterbaz]

Another great videon Keith, must have been tough to re-live that experience, and the shocking treatment our wounded had then, hopefully, it is nw a lot better, but really, Help for Heroes should not have to be still running, the government, no matter what colour, should look after our wounded service personnel, no matter what, and for not matter how long, it is the least they can do. Rant over. Baz

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers Baz, was a rough time, but as they say; what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. All the best mate.

[@markrunnalls7215]

Brilliant Keith ,Fantastic, your far from being boring ,love your channel ,keep up your great stories, and keep tabbing ..

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Roger that Mark will do and thank you for your support 👍

[@tonydavies5283]

A great story for us listeners Keith, what stands out for me in your story is the difference between the civilian and military medical staff. The military nurses a little bit more on the ball. An Xray machine at the aid station would have had your neck diagnosed sooner but i suppose it was a bit impractical to have one at a forward aid station .glad it all worked out in the end apart from the occasional bit of insanity 😂😂😂 Seaman Stains verifies that 🤣 👍

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

😂😂😂 cheers Tony

[@allanxxxxxxxx]

Hi Keith I can not get my head around how the 1st MO/ Doctor just gave you ibuprofen I think I would want to give him a piece of my mind

[@jonathanfaulkner6107]

Great story.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you 👍

[@grimsmith1]

Big REspect RSM! Pour yourself a large post treatment one!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

I definitely do on occasion 🥃🫡

[@vmax42dave]

Great Blog Keith.. got a goody from N I 1984 👍

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

I was there in 84 and made the casrep after an incident at a snap vcp. There is another story

[@samrodian919]

One for the RAF! My late father was a trained nurse before he volunteered for the RAF in November 1940. Come the invasion of Europe on D day, my dad was with the Very first RAF field Hospital in France. They went on D+7. He was with them through Holland during the winter of '44/45 at Eindhoven. They went through to the Rhine crossing, into Germany and all through Northern Germany to Bergen-Belsen and the horrors they found there. Eventually ending up on the Danish border at Flensburg. Coming back to the UK to get demobbed by 350 cc BSA dispatch riders motorcycle . Eventually arriving at Cardington in Bedfordshire, where the huge old Airship hangars were, and was demobbed in February 1946. Glad you survived intact Sergeant Major. ( even if the Army medics missed a fractured neck lol) by the way it was not boring at all !

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Great story of your Father's time in WW2, thank you for sharing it much appreciated.

[@djgingecoldwell10]

Fantastic video, as ex RAF Regiment of 22 years, you're experience, made realise, how unprepared Britian was for this second deployment in 2003 (on very dodgy intel) and the cuts to medical services were and the removal of the military hospitals from forces, had a massive impact on operations and moral, I've also trying too work out , what you're cap badge is? Keep up the great work 👍

[@redskyatnight123]

Princess of Wales Royal regiment pwrr

[@djgingecoldwell10]

@@redskyatnight123 Bless, I worked with the Queens Regiment in Cyprus and deployed with them before they were amalgamated in the mid ninties.

[@redskyatnight123]

@@djgingecoldwell10 yeah I had good freinds in there I was a viking myself royal anglian reg spent 2 years in Cyprus wit 2nd battalion.

[@redskyatnight123]

@@djgingecoldwell10 hope all is well

[@reginaldsmallhausen8871]

Bless yer cotton socks..We love you mate!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

🫡🇬🇧

[@-DC-]

The British Government seldom does what is right by it's Servicemen or indeed General Population, Fantastic Keith it really helps to show people what they can expect should they sign up, I'd never advise anyone to join up these days it's not the Country it once was 🇬🇧

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

It's sad but unfortunately very true

[@nobby3542]

Great video buddy.👍👍👍 I have a story about me having to go to the Franco/German Field hospital in Split when i was on Op Grapple 7. The story began before i left BAOR on deployment. I will put the video together later this week. Stay Strong, buddy. LETS TAB.👍👍👍👍🤜🤜🤜🤜

[@Simon_W74]

I have said this a few times over the weekend. There is a big difference in how someone tells as personnel story. You have the call for sympathy kind and then you have the matter of fact kind. It can be the exact same set of circumstances yet how it is told can be vastly different. Your story of your experience is the latter of the two, probably like a lot of those that serve or served, but not exclusive to the Military or even our Blue Light Services. It got me thinking once again about a young lad out in Bosnia in 98 at the P Factory in GV that Walked of the back of his 14 Tonner, whilst rolling up his tarp, not long after I had unloaded him and his fellow Drivers of our food and water rations. The first thing he did was to try and sit up. I had to tell him to lay down and stay still, then shot off up to the MRS and get the Medics. Later found out that he had broken his back. Never did find out if he made a full recovery or not. I have often wondered about that even 26 years on. You just want to know that they are ok. I never experienced much on the two tours I did and Bosnia when I was in was kind of stable at the times as far as we were aware. We where pretty safe being behind camp Gabion Basket walls.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you Simon for sharing your story and thoughts 🙏

[@redeamer01]

Hi Keith, I remember that incident when it happened, you were the topic of the day at the time 😁. To be fair to the "System" whilst I was on that tour we had a death of a close family member in early September. Once everything kicked in, from me standing in Abu Naji to me standing in my Mum's kitchen was less than 24 hours. When I first arrived in the UK there was a driver waiting to take me to the civi airport for a flight back home to Northern Ireland and another driver waiting to drive me straight home from there. As you can imagine I was very thankful that "everything" just worked.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Cheers Brother much appreciated 🫡👍🇬🇧🪖

[@voonyboy]

The switch from our last military hospital in haslar to using civi hospitals was a massive mistake, as the military looks after it's own. I remember Matt Mayer and Justin F and a lot of you guys up ther in AA. Spent a lot of time looking down on you!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

You mention to fantastic Officers there. I'm taking it you were RAF or maybe AAC? I was the Air Ops Officer did we ever cross paths?

[@doctorpc4x4]

70s 80s military world wide treatment "Heres a concrete pill harden up and carry on"

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Don't I know it. Was injured in 84 in NI.

[@JamesAlexander14]

Seems like you copped it quite a bit Sgt Major, but I’m glad you made it back alive and with your head held high. Supporting you all the way, so keep videoing and this was by no means boring. Let’s Tab!

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Thank you James 🇬🇧 🫡

[@Iveraghboy]

Listen to this mans story lads, never a soldier be.

[@MonkeyGus]

I was in cadets with the siblings of one of the lads that was shot on Telic 4, kind of feels a bit weird I'm now watching you explain your experiences on the same tour he died on...

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Was an incredibly tough tour on Telic 4.