Fathers join to help servicemen and commemorate son

Two fathers who had sons in the army have joined together to help other soldiers and servicepeople to cope with what they see on duty.

Harry Pearson and Bob Wright have started the Mark Wright Project after Bob’s son died saving Harry’s boy’s life.

The two men wanted to commemorate Mark’s bravery and continue a project in his memory, while also helping people who have served in warzones.

Harry told the Daily Record that the attack which led to Mark’s death saw three people lose their limbs and a main concern was how the soldiers who witnessed it would cope when they got home.

"We started thinking about ways to support the soldiers who’ll be coming back with terrible memories and the families who feel so isolated," he added.

The drop-in facility, which operates in Midlothian, allows ex-servicepeople and their families to meet up, use gym equipment or just watch TV.

Another person attempting to help servicemen is Captain Ed Poynter, from the 2nd Battalion The Rifles, who is walking 87 miles to raise money and awareness of the British Limbless Ex-Service Men’s Association.

Posted by Simon Williams