@@milocunningham9473 Thanks ... I've zero respect for people who go to other people's countries and murder people for money at the behest of corrupt politicians. THESE ARE NOT HEROES IN ANY WAY .
Even 39 years after leaving the army, I'm still a soldier; everyone else is a civy. Those who served understand. Dave, you're a brother from a different mother; thanks for doing this.
I am, and always will be, bound by the oath I took. I will always be a soldier. My attitude and body may not be up to the task anymore, but if you dig down past the bullshit you'll find at my core a great big part of me stamped 'ARMY' Bravo Zulu, brother.
Really brave and impressive and powerful from someone who also achieved a lot for the RAF Regiment at its best, plus MERT (after all the well known less impressive things known) - it took massive courage to share this and something we all identify with. Like others have said - once you've been a soldier of any sort you never really stop.
Why is it that people who give everything for their country get nothing & yet others who give nothing get everything 🤔 Thanks for your honesty Dave in baring your soul & allowing us a glimpse of your inner demons & hope that you continue to heal. Thank You 🙏🏼 for your service.
I was on the range with Dave a while back and we had a seise fire because a boat had crossed the saftey arcs, he shouts to me "DOBBO", "get your arse over here" i go over to his fire trench and get in with him, he was massive to me in stature, and was a SGT, i was only a fresh LAC, he gives me one of his ciggies and we're just there chatting for a moment, id never been treated like that from a high ranker and never was again for the rest of my military career, Dave made everyone laugh and no one had a bad word to say about him, absolute legend and im glad to see him doing so well now, per ardua Dave❤️
@georgewaites1583 eyyyy if it isn't my old mucka Waites!! Yeah he was dead sound mate, heartbreaking to watch him so tortured by it all ey, glad he's getting there though, I'll give you a message in a bit la
These guys like Dave, should never ever find themselves homeless, under no circumstances what so ever, and any soldier that has faced what Dave had to face should always be supported by the Government he walked for, best of luck for the future Dave, hope all goes well.
So, I grew up as kid living with pissed off Vietnam vets. Then I joined up and became a pissed off veteran myself. There are a lot of veterans who want absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with the government, including VA. Their level of distrust in 'the system' is pretty incredible. And to be clear, 'the system' means anyone who wasn't there with them in the Land of Bad. Even older combat veterans have a hard time getting through at times. This is one of the symptoms of PTSD... paranoia, distrust, rage and disenfranchisement. A lot of these guys feel so guilty that they just want to go up into the hills, set up a camp, and drink themselves to death. And the DEFINITELY don't want anyone's pity. This makes it hard to get them services. And there are a LOT of services out there for them [depending on where you live, of course]. From an American point of view, in order to get VA services, you have to submit to yet another uncaring government bureaucracy [as they see it] and that worked out so well for you the last time you did that, right? And while I don't know the exact process in the UK, I'm willing to bet good money that many UK veterans have similar emotions about it all.
Yes they feel abandoned, that nobody cares...PTSD is a terrible thing to have and very few understand it unless you have served. Thankfully it has been brought out in the open and one day the public will understand and contribute the he various Vets charities that can help...Good luck to all, they are precious.@@carlhicksjr8401
Had a cry watching this. I was at the COB during this. Rounds flying over the camp. Fruity tour! Got discharged myself after 21 years with CPTSD Former RE Much love xx
Its utterly utterly disgusting the way our veterans are treated. The establishment are quick to send them to war from the comfort of their armchairs and then treat them like third class citizens. Veterans should be at the top of the list for everything, healthcare, housing, financial support etc. Thank you for your service.
In a democracy, the 'establishment' is you. You vote in the people who send them to conflict. The word 'armed' as in, armed forces is a clue to the violence that's involved in 'war'. Common sense should kick before you sign up not after?
Ex 1980s 58 Sqn Rock who has never experienced half of what you have Dave - I wish you well and salute your decision to step forward and tell your story, once again your bravery in doing so is helping others - stay strong my friend - Per Ardua
My heart breaks for the constant struggle of Dave and so many other Vets. It is imperative that We citizens care for each of these Vets who give so much.
listening to Dave just confirms my paltry £10 a month is well worth it, thanks Dave, when you say I don't want anything special well buddy you should not only want something special we as a nation should give you everything you need, YOU ARE SPECIAL.
What people don't realise is that we cannot chose to forget, we can only learn to deal with them and process them, but we cannot control what we remember. These guys will carry their memories for the rest of their lives, and we owe it to them to help them manage.
Dave, always try and remember this. The world is a much better place with you and people like you in it. The true bravery you have shown by opening up and talking about your experiences is inspiring. I can only dream of striving to be half the man you are.
Good luck Dave, great to see your doing well and enjoying your golfing role. I served for 41 years, miss it like crazy, struggling a little bit but nothing like you. You’re an inspiration, push through to the reorg 👍👍👍
Dave thankyou for your service 24 years.im from a military family. I suffer from mental health myself. So I understand how you feel. It has taken me 3yrs to find peace. I live in a quiet place now birds and other animals . Hope you find your quiet place.thankyou. xx
That story from Dave just ripped me apart. So pleased he is still with us today, and hope his family come back in his life whole heartedly. I’m going to support the cause now, dam worth it! Stuff the National Lottery, I’m moving over. If you read this Dave, Stay Safe, Stay Positive. US Rock Apes are there for you. 🦍Per Ardua 🦍
As the interviewer said it takes great courage to speak openly like Dave did. This courage will hopefully help him live a " normal" life in the future. The sad thing is that this country fails to support veterans to an acceptable level and it's falls to charities to fill the gap. People like Dave who serve their country are far braver then me and this country should help them when required
He may not like being called a hero, but he absolutely is a hero, not only for serving and saving others, but also for telling his story and showing civilians what people who serve their country put on the line for their country.
You're a brave man. You not only survived those tours, you survived what turns out to be an even bigger threat to service men and women. Best wishes from Limerick Eire
Lee 💙🙏thank you mate and out of every comment I’ve read in here tonight 😢I replied to yours ? Why I ask myself ? Is it the name as my only Sons name is Lee 💙Tonight I’ve accepted defeat 😢Broken destroyed and veteran Paratrooper 🏴💙🇬🇧Also served in the French 🇫🇷 Forgien Legion was a PMC in 🇮🇶 Iraq surviving a massive I.E.D with serious injuries in 2007 😢 after getting my fitness back after a broken back 😢I went into Syria 🇸🇾 to battle against the evils of Deash 😢after joining my Kurdish Comrades in the Peshmerga to help in the battle if I.S.I.S ✌️ 2015 ✌️why is Lee that can’t fight my PTSD anymore bro I’m fucked and that’s it 😢I simply can not take another fkn day of this Pain I’m in 🙏only Our Lord will judge me for any wrong doing in my life 🙏 This comment for some reason gave me a reason 💙Gave me all I needed to hear 🙏thank you🙏God Bless and what I did learn from my counciling 😢was true exactly true 👌Survivors Guilt and lastly bro a massive thanks to you🏴💙Meant the world to me to hear that🙏 Leave you with a little verse So the jobs were hard to come by He could not face the dole So he took his country money and enlisted in the role 🏴💙🇬🇧Aurivour GTC Lee if you want to put a face to the man🙏Please remember me as a warrior who done his job 💙✌️protecting others # Mercynaries of War On TH-cam
Been playing the Vets lottery for just over a year now, i couldnt care less about winning, just so happy to be able to help these amazing men and women anyway i can. The interviews and seeing that the money actually gets to the Veterans and not some shell to make money is incredible and the reason i play. Thank you all for the sacrafice
Your grief speaks volumes about your heart and soul. Stay strong. I hope you do well in your new chapter. You deserve peace and happiness and the love of family and your friends.
Sorry to hear about your trauma mate. Unfortunately mate you’re not alone. Military veterans in your own country also Australia, New Zealand,USA, Canada are going through the same ordeal and their respective governments are not doing anything to help them. Shameful. I hope you get the help you need and hopefully recover mate. Stay strong.
So sad you have gone through this Dave ,it’s great you have found a new purpose in life,it’s nearly 30 yrs since I left and I’m still a soldier inside.Great job by the veterans lottery
Dave, I wish you all the very best for the future. Thank you for your service and for sharing your incredible story. We are all better off because of you and all the veterans and serving members of our armed forces.
Thank you Dave, for each one of your colleagues who admits to the nightmare of PTSD and mental health struggles , there must be more who aren’t able to manage with their mental health , who don’t have the support they desperately need
Sgt Dave, thank you so much for your service. You are a very brave strong man. I have so much respect for you, you are a true hero. We all support you, and we need you around. Please keep up the amazing work that you are doing. Thank you, Sir!
Hi Dave, as a former artillery soldier who has been there and done what we say is are job, yes you where right about, nobody being there to help when you came out of the forces, my resettlement person was a joke. ie never seen him, that’s support you need to move over to civilian life. What I would like to say Dave you have been through a lot and life is worth living do not feel guilty about what you did, you as all of us service personnel always do is just are job. Martin will always be in your thoughts, so please live your live to the full you deserve the respect and support from the team/ foundation that has helped you through those tough times. From a drop short R.A. to a fly boy RAF.Respect brother ( military family). God bless you.
as a former soldier who did N Ireland and was in the Cypriot war 1974 in the UN seeing through all its violence i do try to understand his trauma; my parents were service people in ww2 and an uncle who was blown up in a tank and he would just break down but my mother would say we all went through it and we must deal with it; my father would say to people who espouse war; War you do not know what war means this guy is a product of war and only he can deal with it in his mind i wish him good luck and hope he has true friends and relatives that stand by him
Dave, Live your life as Martin would wish for you. Keep Martin in your heart and he will have life. He would want you to be proud of your Military Cross. Survivor’s guilt is difficult. Too many years of war. I miss the comradery and team aspects. You will again build your life. I will pray for you. From the States, a retired soldier who understands.
Thank you for your noble sacrifice. And good for you, more people need to hear and share these stories. I do worry that veterans aren't looked after, so it's really positive to see these sorts of charities working. .
Dave you are a lovely man I pray that you continue to heal. I apologise for what our government has done to you soldiers coming home to nothing, I am ashamed. God bless you always
There is absolutely no words to describe the appreciation, thanks and love I have for you warrior. Your service means alot to those of us who honour your service and are externally greatful of your sacrifice. I hope you read this brother from a British man to a British man. Thank you for all that you gave my friend. Thankyou David. Thankyou Dave.
By sharing his deeply-personal, self-triggering story with us, Sergeant Dave - even in his most compromised state, and even with his suffering threatening to overwhelm him - is STILL charging back into the teeth of the tempest, looking to rescue others. My respect for this incredible British lionheart is absolute. Get around him, England, and pay attention to his message. He's truly one of your most noble sons, even at his worst.
@@veteransfoundation9407 Will somebody please tell the serge that "archaic" in this particular context is a compliment?!! In these uncertain times, when a man's handshake carries no weight, and integrity and honour routinely take a backseat to convenience and popularity, Sergeant Dave has every reason to cling to his old school, tried-and-true traditionalist values. It's not a matter of him being obsolete - it's a matter of most young men lacking the character to reliably aim up like he has, and being unfit to stand in this warrior's shadow.
What a powerful video from a powerful man. I have never served but I have felt despair something like Dave's for other reasons. To see him tell his story and to show his emotions openly means a lot to me. How such a "tough" man can talk about this and to show it to the world means more to me than he could know (and so many others, I am sure), he continues to be "tough" but in a much better way. The man made me cry but I think I needed that. Thank you sincerely, Dave. Much respect.
My thoughts are with you Brother Thank You I remember Martin every year on the anniversary of that fateful day now you have told the story I am humbled by your bravery and your commitment I hope you go from strength to strength PER ARDUA has new meaning what you have been through epitomizes the Corps Motto God Bless You Dave
There are many brave people in our society. Dave’s bravery brought me to tears. I know we are not machines and potentially we all have a point where the human body goes into a mode which is no longer completely in our control. I’ve been there and it took me very much by surprise when it occurred. I had thought I could cope with anything. I learned then that I was mistaken. Just a normal reaction to your intensive service Dave. Well done and just pull yourself back from the brink (Many thanks and all the best for your rich future I’m sure)
You know - I’ve been through some crap in my life and was once told that tears are an expression for love for yourself and others and I should be proud to cry. In affect - tears are pure love
DAMN, had some great banter with Dave at DUMBARNIE in July. What a super dude on the golf course. Dave, wish I had known mate, you're a champion and enjoyed and appreciated. I will track you down next year
MASSiVE RESPECT! I hope you re aware of how huge your journey was in the military and now you re still have the courage to be the best version of yourself in golf !
I lived and served in the Army in Northern Ireland for 10 years as a part time fully operational soldier in the Ulster Defence Regiment; a regiment within the British Army ORBT both on and off duty. Effectively you were never ' off duty' Constantly vigilance; checking vehicles; always armed. Ten years. Many in my regiment served longer. Far to little is talked about around the effects of long term operational trauma. My regiment was the longest serving since the Napoleonic Wars. I was clinically diagnosed by two psychiatrists with service related PTSD triggered by a road accident, 29 years after my service ended. The UK is sitting on a MH time bomb. This is not just about recent history, but about all wars and conflicts in living memory and a hunt to ensure no veteran is forgotten.
Hi Dave, I’m an ex Infantry soldier of 30 years service and I thought I had seen everything life could throw at me. I am typing this message through my tears , tears for a hero, and that hero is YOU ! I can only offer you my greatest respects, and if I could choose a brother, I would choose you. Stay strong mate and god bless you.
@@selenaclarkeif I could choose a sister 👌then it would you 🙏Selena what a wonderful comment 💙and from a stranger💙Wow a little comment left on a strangers page hit me like Slap but a lovely one and it’s made my time 😢 protecting people like you in our country 🏴💙🇬🇧sadly I’m done now and finished😢sorry for letting you all down 😢as a veteran Paratrooper 🇬🇧 I am surrendering to my Survivors guilt🥲🙏 God Bless you and family🙏 GTC
Hi, Selena Clarke, I have just came across David’s video once again, and I’ve read your kind reply to my comment “if I could choose a brother. The most treasured thing about serving in our armed forces is “Comradeship” which makes everyone you serve alongside a Brother or a sister. David has displayed a very special kind of humanity and dedication to his fellow soldiers, that makes him in my world, a brave man head and shoulders above others. What is Comradeship! It’s Love for the men and women that you serve alongside that you truly trust . Thank you for understanding.
I’m so sorry for what you’re going thru, my heart hurts for you. I hope you and your family can be reunited, you are a good man. I hope you can become proud of yourself, even thru your pain ❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏😢
Heart breaking our own government doesn't do enough for vets. Being a civvy I can't fully how hard it must be coming home from a warzone although do understand folks need more proactive support. Big respect to you folks that have served.
I am an ex squaddie of no where near the years service that Dave served. I am sat here in bits for him. There is so much banter between units, the RAF reg come in for a lot, especially from the army units. No matter any of that, Dave goes to show that no matter the man or woman, no matter the unit they serve in, when the time comes to step up, your training and experience comes to the fore, more still in Dave’s respect the making of the man he is came to the fore. Stay strong brother, you have our love and complete respect for who you are and what you have done in your life.
A very powerful video. Thank you Dave for everything you've done for our country, this is from someone who's been in the Army for 31 years. (Still going) I understand you and my heart goes out to you. I too have had struggles with my mental health as a result of experiences in Afghanistan and other traumatic things in my life. Once a serviceman, always a serviceman. All the very best to you my brother.
The Military and Civvy street are Poles apart.... But having said that the Military are only slowly realising that they have a responsibility Post Service for what they have created. Civvy Street muddles along, and the biggest problem for me when I left the R.A.F. in 1959 was trying to handle the casual way things got done, when I had been trained for Action. The Forces need to start preparing Families and Loved ones in what to expect and being prepared. Civvy Street loves to be safe and comfortable in a warm bed. A few years ago I was talking and having a Beer with an Aussie Army Intelligence Officer who had just return from his 5th Afghan deployment, that day he had attended a compulsory session with an Army Shrink .... the immature Shrink started off by asking him "what he expected to see when he arrived in Afghanistan in this most recent deployment." he said he stared at the Shrink and quietly said "FAIRIES". After a couple more Cold Beers and a bit of talking shit.... He thanked me for my time an said "It has been Great nagging with you... because you understand" I just said that well we have to take care of you 'Pongos' ... he looked at me and asked "Why do you call us Pongos".... Well where ever the Army goes ...the Pong Goes.... He looked at me slapped me on the back and said "Bastard" I asked hi if he knew what he was going to say when he came across the Fairies! .... "Yes I will send them to the F&%#ing shrink". Dave I was also a Caddie before I signed up with the R.A.F..... The Pro pulled me aside on my very first Round as a Caddy and Pointed to his Eyes and said "Keep these OPEN, then pointing to his Ears keep these OPEN and pointing to his Mouth he said Keep this SHUT until you are spoken to"... That was the best advise that saw me pass out from R.A.F. Padgate on Basic Training without any dramas. Hey Dave as a Rock Ape/Pebble Maggot ..... Wanna Hug!.... Thanks Mate you did what we all would have done ....Looked after your Mates Back
Dave, keep going mate. I was in the mod some time before you. Thank you for what you did. You were a rock for those young men. Try to stay strong for them. Good luck with the golf. Mine is rubbish. :-) K
Dave, I'm ex 2 Squadron and 501st Tac Missile Wg. This really moved me to do something positive with veterans charities. Have a word with Chris Thrall, ex marine and podcaster. He's an amazing bloke, like you mate.
Dave is one of the best.....we had a right laugh in the super block at Honington remember doing a bbq on the fire escape while drinking wasn't a good idea....but big respect Dave for talking All the best Bernard Per Ardua
Being able to detach myself from the horrible things experienced in combat is something I will always be grateful for. What got me through a lot of challenging situations during my military career was being able to zone out of distractions, and zone in with lazer focus on what I needed to do at that moment. When I look back at my memories I'm more shaken now by what I experienced, what I saw, than I allowed myself to be at the time. My peers called it professionalism, I called it being able to switch frequencies to the one I needed to be tuned into to do my job and I switched off all the other frequencies which I felt weren't relevant to what I was doing at that moment. It was almost like being in a trance where all I could see and hear were my actions, and my heartbeat. I was on autopilot. All the noise and chaos around me was filtered out and blurred. When I " came round" afterwards, I made myself focus on the next task, and did not allow myself to reflect at all on what I had just been through other than knowing I had done my bit. The abiding problem for me has been since finishing my military time, living a "normal" civilian life has given my memory banks the freedom for me to have access to the things I shut off or "filed away" back then. I no longer have the requirement to zone in, or zone out in my daily life like I did when the adrenaline was pumping. It's like looking back at a completely different person, and maybe it was, or is.
Broken soldiers should be treated with the highest respect and given everything they need to live their best life. Thank you for your service.
NOPE
With you until the Yankified "FANK YEW FUR UR SERVICE" Fuck right off with that Americanised glorification of the uniform
@@milocunningham9473
Thanks ... I've zero respect for people who go to other people's countries and murder people for money at the behest of corrupt politicians.
THESE ARE NOT HEROES IN ANY WAY .
Amen 💯
@@davidjacobs828the words of a true coward!
Even 39 years after leaving the army, I'm still a soldier; everyone else is a civy. Those who served understand. Dave, you're a brother from a different mother; thanks for doing this.
🫡🎯
I am, and always will be, bound by the oath I took. I will always be a soldier. My attitude and body may not be up to the task anymore, but if you dig down past the bullshit you'll find at my core a great big part of me stamped 'ARMY'
Bravo Zulu, brother.
Tks for your service...much appreciated.
Tks for your service...my bro was the same...Cameronians/RA/RTR@@carlhicksjr8401
Really brave and impressive and powerful from someone who also achieved a lot for the RAF Regiment at its best, plus MERT (after all the well known less impressive things known) - it took massive courage to share this and something we all identify with. Like others have said - once you've been a soldier of any sort you never really stop.
Why is it that people who give everything for their country get nothing & yet others who give nothing get everything 🤔
Thanks for your honesty Dave in baring your soul & allowing us a glimpse of your inner demons & hope that you continue to heal.
Thank You 🙏🏼 for your service.
It's a shame we can't look after everyone like the country should!
Could not have said it better myself. He is a brave soul. Hope the brotherhood can support him and he finds peace.
Yeah ....don't fret about the 500,000 iraqi children these people murdered.....
No biggie right,?
Application forms to be a Career Politician are freely available at every election....if elected you usually you only fail upwards
Here is a man who has something to cry about God bless and keep him and his .
I was on the range with Dave a while back and we had a seise fire because a boat had crossed the saftey arcs, he shouts to me "DOBBO", "get your arse over here" i go over to his fire trench and get in with him, he was massive to me in stature, and was a SGT, i was only a fresh LAC, he gives me one of his ciggies and we're just there chatting for a moment, id never been treated like that from a high ranker and never was again for the rest of my military career, Dave made everyone laugh and no one had a bad word to say about him, absolute legend and im glad to see him doing so well now, per ardua Dave❤️
Sound guy isn't he dobbo, I seen him a couple years ago came into where I work as a civvy was good seeing him again, was a top tac SGT to us
@georgewaites1583 eyyyy if it isn't my old mucka Waites!! Yeah he was dead sound mate, heartbreaking to watch him so tortured by it all ey, glad he's getting there though, I'll give you a message in a bit la
I briefly served with Dave on 3Sqn at RAF Aldergrove. He was a guy many looked up to, knowledgable, motivating and encouraging!
Tks for your service. Dave needs the support of the brotherhood.
RAF Aldergroves now just known as belfast international now? or is it still a JHC?
These guys like Dave, should never ever find themselves homeless, under no circumstances what so ever, and any soldier that has faced what Dave had to face should always be supported by the Government he walked for, best of luck for the future Dave, hope all goes well.
So, I grew up as kid living with pissed off Vietnam vets. Then I joined up and became a pissed off veteran myself.
There are a lot of veterans who want absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with the government, including VA. Their level of distrust in 'the system' is pretty incredible. And to be clear, 'the system' means anyone who wasn't there with them in the Land of Bad. Even older combat veterans have a hard time getting through at times. This is one of the symptoms of PTSD... paranoia, distrust, rage and disenfranchisement. A lot of these guys feel so guilty that they just want to go up into the hills, set up a camp, and drink themselves to death. And the DEFINITELY don't want anyone's pity.
This makes it hard to get them services. And there are a LOT of services out there for them [depending on where you live, of course]. From an American point of view, in order to get VA services, you have to submit to yet another uncaring government bureaucracy [as they see it] and that worked out so well for you the last time you did that, right?
And while I don't know the exact process in the UK, I'm willing to bet good money that many UK veterans have similar emotions about it all.
Yes they feel abandoned, that nobody cares...PTSD is a terrible thing to have and very few understand it unless you have served. Thankfully it has been brought out in the open and one day the public will understand and contribute the he various Vets charities that can help...Good luck to all, they are precious.@@carlhicksjr8401
Had a cry watching this.
I was at the COB during this. Rounds flying over the camp. Fruity tour!
Got discharged myself after 21 years with CPTSD
Former RE
Much love xx
Tks for your service. Good luck in your endeavours.
Its utterly utterly disgusting the way our veterans are treated. The establishment are quick to send them to war from the comfort of their armchairs and then treat them like third class citizens. Veterans should be at the top of the list for everything, healthcare, housing, financial support etc. Thank you for your service.
In a democracy, the 'establishment' is you. You vote in the people who send them to conflict. The word 'armed' as in, armed forces is a clue to the violence that's involved in 'war'. Common sense should kick before you sign up not after?
Ex 1980s 58 Sqn Rock who has never experienced half of what you have Dave - I wish you well and salute your decision to step forward and tell your story, once again your bravery in doing so is helping others - stay strong my friend - Per Ardua
God Bless.
I SALUTE YOU...❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤from Hong Kong.🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Mate you’re just as brave now telling you’re story, a big hug, they send us to war then forget us, only those that know know
I bloody love you mate. Yourself and your comrades are the best among men.
From one Veteran to another thanks for your service! Keep on pushing forward!!
My heart breaks for the constant struggle of Dave and so many other Vets. It is imperative that We citizens care for each of these Vets who give so much.
listening to Dave just confirms my paltry £10 a month is well worth it, thanks Dave, when you say I don't want anything special well buddy you should not only want something special we as a nation should give you everything you need, YOU ARE SPECIAL.
What people don't realise is that we cannot chose to forget, we can only learn to deal with them and process them, but we cannot control what we remember.
These guys will carry their memories for the rest of their lives, and we owe it to them to help them manage.
He won’t like it, but what a legend, thank you for your service.
Keep that positive mindset Dave, you've come along way.
Dave, always try and remember this. The world is a much better place with you and people like you in it. The true bravery you have shown by opening up and talking about your experiences is inspiring. I can only dream of striving to be half the man you are.
You never failed him. trust that voice within yourself Brother.
Good luck Dave, great to see your doing well and enjoying your golfing role. I served for 41 years, miss it like crazy, struggling a little bit but nothing like you. You’re an inspiration, push through to the reorg 👍👍👍
Dave No words can explain how proud we are of your honesty and what you have done (thankyou )
Dave thankyou for your service 24 years.im from a military family. I suffer from mental health myself. So I understand how you feel. It has taken me 3yrs to find peace. I live in a quiet place now birds and other animals . Hope you find your quiet place.thankyou. xx
Thank you. I’m not a soldier, but you spoke to a lot of my darker moments with C-PTSD and it made me feel not so alone. Thank you
Very powerful when a man like Dave bears his soul. Thanks for sharing your journey and wish you well.
Never even heard of this until now, my son is in service and absolutely loves it.
This story brought tears to my eyes and I haven’t even served the things our vets go through and they’re still not compensated is aggravating.
That story from Dave just ripped me apart. So pleased he is still with us today, and hope his family come back in his life whole heartedly. I’m going to support the cause now, dam worth it! Stuff the National Lottery, I’m moving over. If you read this Dave, Stay Safe, Stay Positive. US Rock Apes are there for you. 🦍Per Ardua 🦍
As the interviewer said it takes great courage to speak openly like Dave did. This courage will hopefully help him live a " normal" life in the future. The sad thing is that this country fails to support veterans to an acceptable level and it's falls to charities to fill the gap. People like Dave who serve their country are far braver then me and this country should help them when required
Hang in there Dave... you're not alone. There are many of us out there that understand your pain. God Bless mate.
He may not like being called a hero, but he absolutely is a hero, not only for serving and saving others, but also for telling his story and showing civilians what people who serve their country put on the line for their country.
You're a brave man. You not only survived those tours, you survived what turns out to be an even bigger threat to service men and women. Best wishes from Limerick Eire
dave, and everyone else that has served and are suffering, in what ever way. im sorry. thank you for what you have do for me
Lee 💙🙏thank you mate and out of every comment I’ve read in here tonight 😢I replied to yours ? Why I ask myself ? Is it the name as my only Sons name is Lee 💙Tonight I’ve accepted defeat 😢Broken destroyed and veteran Paratrooper 🏴💙🇬🇧Also served in the French 🇫🇷 Forgien Legion was a PMC in 🇮🇶 Iraq surviving a massive I.E.D with serious injuries in 2007 😢 after getting my fitness back after a broken back 😢I went into Syria 🇸🇾 to battle against the evils of Deash 😢after joining my Kurdish Comrades in the Peshmerga to help in the battle if I.S.I.S ✌️ 2015 ✌️why is Lee that can’t fight my PTSD anymore bro I’m fucked and that’s it 😢I simply can not take another fkn day of this Pain I’m in 🙏only Our Lord will judge me for any wrong doing in my life 🙏 This comment for some reason gave me a reason 💙Gave me all I needed to hear 🙏thank you🙏God Bless and what I did learn from my counciling 😢was true exactly true 👌Survivors Guilt and lastly bro a massive thanks to you🏴💙Meant the world to me to hear that🙏
Leave you with a little verse
So the jobs were hard to come by
He could not face the dole
So he took his country money and enlisted in the role 🏴💙🇬🇧Aurivour GTC
Lee if you want to put a face to the man🙏Please remember me as a warrior who done his job 💙✌️protecting others # Mercynaries of War
On TH-cam
Been playing the Vets lottery for just over a year now, i couldnt care less about winning, just so happy to be able to help these amazing men and women anyway i can.
The interviews and seeing that the money actually gets to the Veterans and not some shell to make money is incredible and the reason i play.
Thank you all for the sacrafice
Thank you so much for your support - it is hugely appreciated.
Thank you for your service. We see you. God bless 🙏 ❤
Thank you Dave !
Your grief speaks volumes about your heart and soul. Stay strong. I hope you do well in your new chapter. You deserve peace and happiness and the love of family and your friends.
Sorry to hear about your trauma mate. Unfortunately mate you’re not alone. Military veterans in your own country also Australia, New Zealand,USA, Canada are going through the same ordeal and their respective governments are not doing anything to help them. Shameful. I hope you get the help you need and hopefully recover mate. Stay strong.
This is a hard watch, so glad Dave is with us. ❤
Thank you for your service young man.
So sad you have gone through this Dave ,it’s great you have found a new purpose in life,it’s nearly 30 yrs since I left and I’m still a soldier inside.Great job by the veterans lottery
Dave, I wish you all the very best for the future. Thank you for your service and for sharing your incredible story.
We are all better off because of you and all the veterans and serving members of our armed forces.
Brave man, I feel for that guy and wish him all the best for the future.
Thank you Dave, for each one of your colleagues who admits to the nightmare of PTSD and mental health struggles , there must be more who aren’t able to manage with their mental health , who don’t have the support they desperately need
Sgt Dave, thank you so much for your service. You are a very brave strong man. I have so much respect for you, you are a true hero. We all support you, and we need you around. Please keep up the amazing work that you are doing. Thank you, Sir!
God help you brother, - you have suffered so much. Thank you for serving us, your brothers. You deserve so much more my son.
Thank you for your service!! I wish you all The best !!!
Hi Dave, as a former artillery soldier who has been there and done what we say is are job, yes you where right about, nobody being there to help when you came out of the forces, my resettlement person was a joke. ie never seen him, that’s support you need to move over to civilian life. What I would like to say Dave you have been through a lot and life is worth living do not feel guilty about what you did, you as all of us service personnel always do is just are job. Martin will always be in your thoughts, so please live your live to the full you deserve the respect and support from the team/ foundation that has helped you through those tough times. From a drop short R.A. to a fly boy RAF.Respect brother ( military family). God bless you.
Listening to this man broke my heart.
as a former soldier who did N Ireland and was in the Cypriot war 1974 in the UN seeing through all its violence i do try to understand his trauma; my parents were service people in ww2 and an uncle who was blown up in a tank and he would just break down but my mother would say we all went through it and we must deal with it; my father would say to people who espouse war; War you do not know what war means this guy is a product of war and only he can deal with it in his mind i wish him good luck and hope he has true friends and relatives that stand by him
I’m a french veteran …I’m with. brother I totally understand u….take care of your veterans UK
What a tremendous bloke you are mate- to get back on track like that is beyond good.
Thumbs up. Proper bloke.
Dave, Live your life as Martin would wish for you. Keep Martin in your heart and he will have life. He would want you to be proud of your Military Cross. Survivor’s guilt is difficult. Too many years of war. I miss the comradery and team aspects. You will again build your life. I will pray for you. From the States, a retired soldier who understands.
Keep moving forward brother. You’re not alone even when you feel like it!
Thank you for your noble sacrifice. And good for you, more people need to hear and share these stories. I do worry that veterans aren't looked after, so it's really positive to see these sorts of charities working. .
Dave you are a lovely man I pray that you continue to heal.
I apologise for what our government has done to you soldiers coming home to nothing, I am ashamed.
God bless you always
There is absolutely no words to describe the appreciation, thanks and love I have for you warrior. Your service means alot to those of us who honour your service and are externally greatful of your sacrifice. I hope you read this brother from a British man to a British man. Thank you for all that you gave my friend. Thankyou David. Thankyou Dave.
Thank you for sharing your story
By sharing his deeply-personal, self-triggering story with us, Sergeant Dave - even in his most compromised state, and even with his suffering threatening to overwhelm him - is STILL charging back into the teeth of the tempest, looking to rescue others. My respect for this incredible British lionheart is absolute. Get around him, England, and pay attention to his message. He's truly one of your most noble sons, even at his worst.
Beautiful words, Steve. Of the thousands of comments left on both this platform and on the others hosting this film, this is the most powerful.
@@veteransfoundation9407 Will somebody please tell the serge that "archaic" in this particular context is a compliment?!! In these uncertain times, when a man's handshake carries no weight, and integrity and honour routinely take a backseat to convenience and popularity, Sergeant Dave has every reason to cling to his old school, tried-and-true traditionalist values. It's not a matter of him being obsolete - it's a matter of most young men lacking the character to reliably aim up like he has, and being unfit to stand in this warrior's shadow.
A very profound video which many of us who served in the military and in conflict zones can associate with. I find it never goes away fully.
You will only understand if you have ‘served’! We must never forget those who suffer in whatever way from serving this country.
I don´t understand HOW his wife and kids left him, when He Needed them the Most!!! This is Heartbreak. All the Best from Brasil Dave!!
Learn about women.
@@SirGreggwow!
Absolute respect Dave.
What a powerful video from a powerful man. I have never served but I have felt despair something like Dave's for other reasons. To see him tell his story and to show his emotions openly means a lot to me. How such a "tough" man can talk about this and to show it to the world means more to me than he could know (and so many others, I am sure), he continues to be "tough" but in a much better way. The man made me cry but I think I needed that. Thank you sincerely, Dave. Much respect.
Ex Raf myself and that brought a tear to my eye.
Absolute respect sir.. Per Ardua!
My thoughts are with you Brother Thank You I remember Martin every year on the anniversary of that fateful day now you have told the story I am humbled by your bravery and your commitment I hope you go from strength to strength PER ARDUA has new meaning what you have been through epitomizes the Corps Motto God Bless You Dave
Stay strong Brother 💔
Solid. Respect mate.
There are many brave people in our society. Dave’s bravery brought me to tears. I know we are not machines and potentially we all have a point where the human body goes into a mode which is no longer completely in our control. I’ve been there and it took me very much by surprise when it occurred. I had thought I could cope with anything. I learned then that I was mistaken. Just a normal reaction to your intensive service Dave. Well done and just pull yourself back from the brink (Many thanks and all the best for your rich future I’m sure)
What a brave beautiful man, stay strong Dave
You know - I’ve been through some crap in my life and was once told that tears are an expression for love for yourself and others and I should be proud to cry. In affect - tears are pure love
DAMN, had some great banter with Dave at DUMBARNIE in July. What a super dude on the golf course.
Dave, wish I had known mate, you're a champion and enjoyed and appreciated. I will track you down next year
MASSiVE RESPECT! I hope you re aware of how huge your journey was in the military and now you re still have the courage to be the best version of yourself in golf !
Thank you for your service
I lived and served in the Army in Northern Ireland for 10 years as a part time fully operational soldier in the Ulster Defence Regiment; a regiment within the British Army ORBT both on and off duty. Effectively you were never ' off duty' Constantly vigilance; checking vehicles; always armed.
Ten years. Many in my regiment served longer.
Far to little is talked about around the effects of long term operational trauma. My regiment was the longest serving since the Napoleonic Wars.
I was clinically diagnosed by two psychiatrists with service related PTSD triggered by a road accident, 29 years after my service ended.
The UK is sitting on a MH time bomb. This is not just about recent history, but about all wars and conflicts in living memory and a hunt to ensure no veteran is forgotten.
Thank you Dave
Stirring story. Hope you have a good and fulfilling life, Dave. I’ve joined the lottery, mate!
Hi Dave,
I’m an ex Infantry soldier of 30 years service and I thought I had seen everything life could throw at me.
I am typing this message through my tears , tears for a hero, and that hero is YOU !
I can only offer you my greatest respects, and if I could choose a brother, I would choose you.
Stay strong mate and god bless you.
Tks for your service....its a true brotherhood.
"if I could choose a brother, I would choose you" . . . that's one of the most powerful statements Ive ever seen on youtube
@@selenaclarkeif I could choose a sister 👌then it would you 🙏Selena what a wonderful comment 💙and from a stranger💙Wow a little comment left on a strangers page hit me like Slap but a lovely one and it’s made my time 😢 protecting people like you in our country 🏴💙🇬🇧sadly I’m done now and finished😢sorry for letting you all down 😢as a veteran Paratrooper 🇬🇧 I am surrendering to my Survivors guilt🥲🙏 God Bless you and family🙏 GTC
Hi, Selena Clarke,
I have just came across David’s video once again, and I’ve read your kind reply to my comment “if I could choose a brother.
The most treasured thing about serving in our armed forces is “Comradeship” which makes everyone you serve alongside a Brother or a sister.
David has displayed a very special kind of humanity and dedication to his fellow soldiers, that makes him in my world, a brave man head and shoulders above others.
What is Comradeship! It’s Love for the men and women that you serve alongside that you truly trust . Thank you for understanding.
never give dave ,,,i feel your pain
Thank you for your service brother. I wish you the very best in all that you do. 👊
I’m so sorry for what you’re going thru, my heart hurts for you. I hope you and your family can be reunited, you are a good man. I hope you can become proud of yourself, even thru your pain ❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏😢
Heart breaking our own government doesn't do enough for vets. Being a civvy I can't fully how hard it must be coming home from a warzone although do understand folks need more proactive support. Big respect to you folks that have served.
I am an ex squaddie of no where near the years service that Dave served. I am sat here in bits for him. There is so much banter between units, the RAF reg come in for a lot, especially from the army units. No matter any of that, Dave goes to show that no matter the man or woman, no matter the unit they serve in, when the time comes to step up, your training and experience comes to the fore, more still in Dave’s respect the making of the man he is came to the fore. Stay strong brother, you have our love and complete respect for who you are and what you have done in your life.
A very powerful video. Thank you Dave for everything you've done for our country, this is from someone who's been in the Army for 31 years. (Still going) I understand you and my heart goes out to you. I too have had struggles with my mental health as a result of experiences in Afghanistan and other traumatic things in my life. Once a serviceman, always a serviceman. All the very best to you my brother.
The bravest and most modest man that I've ever met. I wish you the very best for the future. From a serving rock's father.
Respect Brother
Sir, I want to thank you for your service and for sharing your experiences. You're an inspiration to many ✨️. Keep shining.
Thanks mate
The Military and Civvy street are Poles apart.... But having said that the Military are only slowly realising that they have a responsibility Post Service for what they have created.
Civvy Street muddles along, and the biggest problem for me when I left the R.A.F. in 1959 was trying to handle the casual way things got done, when I had been trained for Action.
The Forces need to start preparing Families and Loved ones in what to expect and being prepared.
Civvy Street loves to be safe and comfortable in a warm bed.
A few years ago I was talking and having a Beer with an Aussie Army Intelligence Officer who had just return from his 5th Afghan deployment, that day he had attended a compulsory session with an Army Shrink .... the immature Shrink started off by asking him "what he expected to see when he arrived in Afghanistan in this most recent deployment." he said he stared at the Shrink and quietly said "FAIRIES".
After a couple more Cold Beers and a bit of talking shit.... He thanked me for my time an said "It has been Great nagging with you... because you understand" I just said that well we have to take care of you 'Pongos' ... he looked at me and asked "Why do you call us Pongos".... Well where ever the Army goes ...the Pong Goes.... He looked at me slapped me on the back and said "Bastard"
I asked hi if he knew what he was going to say when he came across the Fairies! .... "Yes I will send them to the F&%#ing shrink".
Dave I was also a Caddie before I signed up with the R.A.F..... The Pro pulled me aside on my very first Round as a Caddy and Pointed to his Eyes and said "Keep these OPEN, then pointing to his Ears keep these OPEN and pointing to his Mouth he said Keep this SHUT until you are spoken to"... That was the best advise that saw me pass out from R.A.F. Padgate on Basic Training without any dramas.
Hey Dave as a Rock Ape/Pebble Maggot ..... Wanna Hug!.... Thanks Mate you did what we all would have done ....Looked after your Mates Back
Dave, keep going mate. I was in the mod some time before you. Thank you for what you did. You were a rock for those young men. Try to stay strong for them. Good luck with the golf. Mine is rubbish. :-) K
Sometimes people get pushed too far..hats off to you dave
Hey Dave. Glad you're still around, Brother. We were on the same Oggie Squadron in early 2000's for a short time. Take Care, Bro
Well done Dave! Steady on! From your Brothers across the pond! We support you!
Dave, I'm ex 2 Squadron and 501st Tac Missile Wg. This really moved me to do something positive with veterans charities. Have a word with Chris Thrall, ex marine and podcaster. He's an amazing bloke, like you mate.
Thank you for spreading the message, thus suffering alone need the help, again thank you
A wonderful decent human being.
Dave is one of the best.....we had a right laugh in the super block at Honington remember doing a bbq on the fire escape while drinking wasn't a good idea....but big respect Dave for talking
All the best
Bernard
Per Ardua
upmost respect and love for this man
Being able to detach myself from the horrible things experienced in combat is something I will always be grateful for. What got me through a lot of challenging situations during my military career was being able to zone out of distractions, and zone in with lazer focus on what I needed to do at that moment. When I look back at my memories I'm more shaken now by what I experienced, what I saw, than I allowed myself to be at the time. My peers called it professionalism, I called it being able to switch frequencies to the one I needed to be tuned into to do my job and I switched off all the other frequencies which I felt weren't relevant to what I was doing at that moment. It was almost like being in a trance where all I could see and hear were my actions, and my heartbeat. I was on autopilot. All the noise and chaos around me was filtered out and blurred. When I " came round" afterwards, I made myself focus on the next task, and did not allow myself to reflect at all on what I had just been through other than knowing I had done my bit. The abiding problem for me has been since finishing my military time, living a "normal" civilian life has given my memory banks the freedom for me to have access to the things I shut off or "filed away" back then. I no longer have the requirement to zone in, or zone out in my daily life like I did when the adrenaline was pumping. It's like looking back at a completely different person, and maybe it was, or is.