Series Three
Established and growing...
Series Three started the five-question process (see Welcome) for veterans involved to answer and share the stories of veteran couples. The project was now attracting more attention from third parties, with regular support from Veterans UK and even a retweet from the Prime Minister. Most importantly, the project was doing what I'd intended: allowing veterans to share their stories, as well as one very snazzy Christmas jumper.
Shortly after the end of Series Three, the world celebrated International Women's Day, and in 2017, the first I... poster celebrating our Women Veterans was launched. This would inspire a later series.
The Faces of I... Series Three
Below are the twenty-one posters and stories that featured in Series Three of I...
Eddie and Dona Budd
From Dona and Eddie's press release, 21 September 2016:
"We…are Veterans"
We start Series Three of "I…am a Veteran" with a unique poster featuring the project's first married couple, Dona and Eddie Budd.
Dona and Eddie both served with RAF as Aerospace Systems Operators. They met whilst serving at RAF Buchan and have settled in the North of England. Dona is now a Personal Family Support Worker with SSAFA, and Eddie is a landscape gardener.
When asked what guidance they had for those leaving the services, Dona had this advice to share:
"Stay positive, keep in touch with your serving friends and give something back to the community that has supported you for your service career. There is life after the military, it's just different."
Dona and Eddie's poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Robert Lawrence MC
From Robert's press release, 5 October 2016:
Robert Lawrence MC was commissioned into the Scots Guards in 1979 on a Short Service Commission. In 1982 he deployed with 2nd battalion, Scots Guards (2SG) on Operation Corporate, the British military operation to liberate the Falkland Islands.
On the night of 13th/14th June 1982 Robert was seriously wounded on the slopes of Mount Tumbledown by an Argentinean sniper.
Robert was simply asked one question; “What does being a Veteran mean to you?” This was his reply;
“I am a Veteran. What it means to me:
Immeasurable PRIDE,
Awareness of HISTORY,
Belief in my own GOOD FORTUNE, CONVICTION, DOUBTS,
Periods of CONFUSION,
And too often almost uncontrollable ANGER!”
As well as being the President of the Tumbledown Veterans and Families Association, Robert is also patron to several Veterans organisations and charities and currently manages the family estate.
Roberts experiences and subsequent recovery were recorded by John and his father in the book When the Fighting Is Over: A Personal Story of the Battle for Tumbledown Mountain and Its Aftermath and the 1988 television play Tumbledown starring Colin Firth.
Robert's poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Veronica Roach
From Veronica's press release, 5 October 2016:
This week's poster features former WRAF switchboard operator Veronica Roach. Now retired, Veronica enjoys spending time with her family and fellow Veterans. When asked, "What does being a Veteran mean to you?" Veronica replied;
"Being a Veteran to me, means, like many others I served my Queen and Country. And wearing my Veterans badge shows the world that I'm proud of it".
On what advice Veronica had to share with those who soon become Veterans, she had this to say:
"My advice to those leaving, seek out your local Veterans Breakfast Club to help stay in touch, never tire of telling your tales and don't forget to ask shops if they do discount for Veterans".
Colin Grimes
From Colin's press release, 12 October 2016:
This week's poster features Northumbria-based Veteran and Primary School Teacher Colin Grimes. Colin served as a Technician, completing tours overseas, including Afghanistan, before leaving the RAF and retraining as a teacher.
When asked, "What does being a Veteran mean to you?" Colin replied;
"Being a veteran has given me interesting stories to tell and has made me the person I am.."
On what advice Veronica had to share with those soon-to-become Veterans, Colin had this to say:
"The piece of advice I would give is to grab opportunities and don't hide who you are."
Donna Finlay
From Donna's press release, 19 October 2016:
This week's poster features Hertfordshire-based Veteran Donna Finlay. Donna was a telecom operator with the RAF and now works as a Volunteer Civilian Instructor with the Air Cadet Organisation.
When asked, "What does being a Veteran mean to you?" Donna replied;
"I left the RAF after an injury left me unable to do my duty to the best of my ability. Although my service was cut short, I'm still immensely proud to be a part of the RAF Family and the Forces Family as a whole. It never goes away, no matter what you think when you first leave. All these years later, I really miss it".
On what advice Donna had to share with service leavers, Donna had this to say:
"I'd urge anyone leaving the Armed Forces to keep in contact with as many members of their 'Forces Family' as possible. I love reunions, meet-ups and the Armed Forces and Veterans' Breakfast Clubs where I've made a whole new bunch of mates (my local one is the South Herts AFVBC) and never be afraid to seek help or comradeship".
Butch Hainsworth
From Butch's press release, 26 October 2016:
This week's "I…" poster features former RAF Airframe Technician turned Engineering Lecturer Butch Hutchinson. When asked, "What does being a Veteran mean to you?" Butch replied;
"Being a veteran is belonging to an elite club of friends that only we know what we have been through".
On what advice Butch had to share with service leavers, he had this to say:
"Hold your head up proud and carry on civvies street is not the end only the beginning of a new chapter in your life the Air Force is always in you in spirit it never goes".
Nicky McVey
From Nicky's press release, 2 November 2016:
This week's poster features former Propulsion Technician Nicky McVey. Nicky now lives in Tewkesbury, where she works as an Assistant Manager for the British Heart Foundation.
When I asked Nicky what being a Veteran meant to her, she replied,
"Being a Veteran is very humbling due to the many before me who gave the ultimate sacrifice".
I also asked Nicky what advice she had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"For anyone due to leave… I would advise them to follow their dreams and always keep the morals and standards learnt in the Forces close to their hearts".
Nicky’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Adrian Fielding
From Adrian's press release, 9 November 2016:
This week's poster features former helicopter avionics flight systems technician Adrian Fielding. Adrian now works for a major US company where he is responsible for the company's marketing strategy for Physical Security in the Oil and Gas and other industrial markets.
When I asked Adrian what being a Veteran meant to him, he replied,
"It fills me with a sense of pride and loyalty for those who have served, are currently serving and those yet to serve".
I also asked Adrian what advice he had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"Don't ever undersell yourself...ever! Employers value good discipline, a strong work ethic and the ability to work in a team during pressure situations. The rest you can learn".
Adrian’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Jayne Morley
From Jayne's press release, 16 November 2016:
This week's poster features former dental branch member Jayne Morley, a full-time mother & grandmother. When I asked Jayne what being a Veteran meant to her, she replied,
“I'm proud to be a Veteran, I know it's a long time since I was in but I have wonderful memories of my time as a WRAF”.
I also asked Jayne what advice she had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"To anyone about to become a Veteran? Be proud, you belong to a very special club".
Jayne’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Andrew Beeby
From Andrew's press release, 16 November 2016:
This week's poster features former Aerospace Systems Manager Andrew Beeby. Andrew, who served for 24 years, now works as a Recruitment Manager for a nationwide organisation.
When asked what being a Veteran meant to Andrew, he replied,
"Being a veteran makes me feel proud that I have given a majority of my life to Queen and Country. Nothing will ever come close to the feeling of wearing my uniform with pride".
I also asked Andrew what advice he had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"My advice would be to embrace the change, it's a huge learning curve but your military service will help guide you through all the new challenges and hurdles you will face".
Andrew’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Maria Sullivan
From Maria's press release, 7 December 2016:
This week's "I.." poster features Veteran Maria Sullivan. After serving in RAF supply and movements, Maria now works as a Customer Service Advisor. When asked what being a Veteran meant to Maria, she replied,
"I'm proud to be a veteran as it reminds me of the commitment I made thirty-seven years ago that I still carry inside, the pride runs deep and never leaves you".
I also asked Maria what advice she had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"I would urge all serving personnel soon to be leaving to get in contact with the relevant ex service groups and breakfast clubs to be able to gain valuable access to the resources and advice available to help them with the transition to civilian life, but above all be proud of the commitment to our great country they have given and never lose sight of who they are..... per ardua".
John McKnight
From John's press release, 7 December 2016:
This week's "I.." poster features former Naval Weapons Engineer and Intelligence Photographer John McKnight. John now works as a Company Director & Volunteer Military Charity Fundraiser. When asked what being a Veteran meant to John, he replied,
"To me, being a Veteran means having pride in myself and those who I served alongside from all three Forces, knowing we made a difference in the World for not just my sixteen years, but throughout time in areas of conflict and peace".
I also asked John what advice he had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"My advice to those leaving the Forces would be take your pride and professionalism with you into whatever you decide to do next. It will stand you in good stead with those you work with in the future".
John's poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Angela Kirby
From Angela's press release, 14 December 2016:
This week's "I.." poster features former Telephonist turned Wildlife Photographer Angela Kirby. When I asked Angela what being a Veteran meant to her, she replied,
"Being a veteran gives me a sense of pride in serving, the knowledge that I was given the opportunity to achieve fulfilment in what I was doing".
I then asked Angela what advice she had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"Keep in touch with former colleagues, take pride in your achievements and look for every opportunity to use the skills you have acquired to serve in other ways".
Angela’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Nick Ireland
From Nick's press release, 21 December 2016:
This week's "I.." poster features retired pilot and flying instructor Nick Ireland. Nick was lucky enough to have flown quite a collection of famous aircraft, including Bulldogs, Gnats, F4 Phantoms, and Jaguars. When I asked Nick what being a Veteran meant to him, he had this to say;
"I am proud to have served my Queen and Country"
I then asked Nick what advice he had to share with those soon to become Veterans:
"Be proud of your time in the Services and keep in touch with your colleagues".
I then asked Nick if he had a Christmas message, and he shared this:
"Christmas is time of thanksgiving and the exchange of gifts. Think of those who struggle with ill health or poverty for whom it is not necessarily a joyful occasion".
Nick’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Jan Throp
From Jan's press release, 28 December 2016:
This week's "I.." poster features former Telecom Operator turned Nursery manager Jan Thorp. I asked Jan what being a Veteran meant to her, and she had this to say;
"Being a veteran to me means having extreme pride in my country and all of our armed services, past, present and future".
I then asked Jan if she had advice she could share with those serving and soon becoming Veterans:
"Embrace your new way of life, but remember that you are still a part of a special band of brothers/sisters".
I then asked Jan if she had a New Year message for her fellow Veterans:
"I'd like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy (and peaceful) 2017! For those who are separated from loved ones - thank you!"
Ken Morley
From Nick's press release, 4 January 2017:
This week's "I.." poster features former Telephonist and now Airport Administrator Ken Morley. I asked Ken what being a Veteran meant to him;
"It actually means the world to me having served my country. I continue working with Veterans of all services. This is one veteran that wishes he was still in".
I then asked Ken what advice he could share with those soon to become Veterans:
"Probably the hardest time will be your first few months that you come out of the forces.. we are here .. we have all been there and done that ... so many people to talk to .. I kept looking for a friend and after twenty-five years found him... in China it's good to talk".
Ken’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Sue Holt
From Sue's press release, 11 January 2017:
This week's "I.." poster features Sue Holt, a former Recruit training Drill Instructor turned Head of Operations working in the software industry. I asked Sue what being a Veteran meant to her;
"Being a veteran to me means I am so proud to have served my country in the RAF. I worked with some fantastic people and have the best of memories. Watching recruits change from civvies to proud raw service personnel on their pass-out parade, looking forward to their trade training - it's amazing to know I was part of that for so many people".
I then asked Sue what advice she could share with those soon to become Veterans:
"Join the Facebook groups. Go to your local breakfast club. Ask and listen to the advice from other veterans – we have all been exactly where you are now and we can, and will help. Know that you are never alone and are part of an amazing extended family".
Sue’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Steve Commander
From Steve's press release, 18 January 2017:
This week's "I.." poster features Steve Commander, who was once the Garrison Sergeant Major for the Welsh Brigade and now works as a Learning and Development specialist. I asked Steve what being a Veteran meant to him;
"it still gives me a sense of belonging being a veteran".
I then asked Steve what advice he could share with those soon to become Veterans:
"You may have high standards, and you should keep them... but don't expect people out here to have them too".
Steve’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Elaine Barnes
From Elaine's press release, 25 January 2017:
This week's "I.." poster features former MT Driver Elaine Barnes, who now lives & works as a Home Carer in Canada. I asked Elaine what being a Veteran meant to her;
"Being a veteran has made me what I am today. A person who gives 100% in everything they do".
I then asked Elaine what advice she could share with those soon to become Veterans:
"Have faith in yourself be proud of your service. Good luck in your future life".
Elaine’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Amanda and Charlotte Spurr
From Charlotte and Amanda's press release, 1 February 2017:
We finished Series Three of "I…am a Veteran", pretty much where we started, with a poster featuring a married couple, Charlotte and Amanda Spurr. Amanda served with RAF as a Personnel Support SNCO, while Charlotte was an RN Logistics Officer. I asked Amanda how they met:
"We met in a gay pub in Hampshire. Totally random meeting whilst I was partying with friends and Charlotte popped in for a drink having been to the cinema".
Both ladies left their respective services five years ago and now work as part-time Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Valencia, Spain, having emigrated there four years ago. When asked what guidance they had for those leaving the services, they had this advice to share:
"Use your education credits and entitlements to the maximum. Value your previous service and training as it means a lot to future employers. You're worth your weight in gold; sell yourself".
I then asked what being a Veteran meant to Charlotte and Amanda:
"We're proud to have served for our Country. We can relate to what service people go through and the sacrifices they make. We now have the freedom to enjoy our lives and have a good work-life balance"
Charlotte and Amanda’s poster was kindly shared by Veterans UK.
Series Three Compilation Poster
This poster features the faces of the twenty-two veterans who kindly volunteered to be a part of I... Series Three.
International Womens Day 2017
We…are Veterans
To celebrate International Women’s Day in 2017 and the role of women in HM Armed Forces, past, present and future, a special “I…” montage featuring all the ladies from Series Two and Three was created
From STEM teachers to community volunteers, from mothers to the daughters of Veterans, each face represents a Veteran who volunteered to fulfil a vital role in the defence of their country and serve both at home and abroad. Often serving tours of duty in dangerous and challenging environments, far away from loved ones, each face represents not only a Veteran but a woman willing to give her all for her country.
“Some Veterans are also Women, Daughters and Mothers”
Series Three
Promotional Posters
With the project firmly established with a range of promotional posters, I felt it best to try and keep series posters simple, the two posters shown right were included in the lead up to and used for the duration of Series Three.
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