Latest News
Date:
8/11/2024
Posted By:
Alex
Category:
Forest Forces
Forest Forces and the Mercian Regiment Unite to Remember at The City Ground
In the lead-up to the Remembrance Fixture between Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, five veterans from Nottingham Forest’s Forest Forces programme will take part in the special remembrance activities at The City Ground.
Each veteran brings a story of dedication, resilience, and service, making this annual remembrance occasion especially poignant for Forest fans and the wider community. Here’s a closer look at the veterans who’ll be at the heart of the commemoration this year.
Damian
Damian joined the Territorial Army at just 18, dedicating his weekends to rigorous training, often in the rugged landscapes of Wales. Despite the typical Welsh rain, Damian fondly remembers these days, including an unforgettable moment when he served as armed guard during a training visit by Princess Anne. After four years of dedicated service, he rose to the rank of Lance Corporal, establishing strong bonds with fellow servicemen. Thanks to the Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT) and the Forest Forces programme, Damien has been able to reconnect with some of his old comrades—a reminder of how the programme helps veterans keep those unique connections alive.
Martin
Martin’s journey with the Grenadier Guards took an unexpected turn in 2019 when he suffered a severe car accident, resulting in a spinal injury. The challenges didn’t stop there; in 2022, Martin also endured a transient ischemic attack, or “mini-stroke.” But his unbreakable determination shone through as he worked with the Royal British Legion to regain his health and strength. In 2023, he took on an extraordinary Arctic survival challenge, spending eight days in freezing conditions, living in a snow hole he built himself. Not only did Martin complete this physically and mentally demanding feat, but he also raised approximately £2,400 for the Royal British Legion—a testament to his commitment to giving back to the community that supported him in his recovery.
Kevin
Kevin’s story spans 27 years of dedicated service in the Royal Engineers, starting as an apprentice carpenter and rising to the rank of Warrant Officer. Throughout his career, he worked in various roles across the UK, Germany, Kosovo, Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. As a Combat Engineer, Tradesman, and later an Explosive Ordnance Disposal and High-Risk Search specialist, Kevin played a vital role in supporting both military and humanitarian operations. In Kosovo, he helped build refugee camps, ensuring displaced civilians had safe shelter. In Iraq and Afghanistan, his expertise in counter-IED and mine awareness training was instrumental, as he prepared both soldiers and civilians to face high-risk environments. Kevin’s career culminated as an instructor, sharing his knowledge to equip future servicemen and women for their own missions and tours.
The Mercian Regiment
Adding to the significance of the Remembrance Fixture, five current serving members of the Mercian Regiment will be in attendance, standing in solidarity with Forest Forces veterans. The Mercian Regiment, known as “The Heart of England’s Infantry,” is deeply rooted in the local communities across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and beyond, drawing many of its soldiers from these areas. Their presence at The City Ground represents the enduring connection between Nottingham Forest, the local community, and the armed forces.
The Mercian Regiment is known for its readiness and resilience, serving in conflict zones around the world. From peacekeeping efforts to combat missions, Mercian soldiers demonstrate immense bravery and dedication. Their attendance at the fixture is a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members every day and the shared commitment to honouring both past and present military personnel.
These five serving members of the Mercian Regiment will join the Forest Forces veterans in the pre-match remembrance ceremony, standing side by side in tribute. Their participation not only underscores the strong link between the regiment and Nottingham Forest but also symbolizes the unity and respect that the Remembrance Fixture embodies.
Forest Forces
The Forest Forces initiative, led by the Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT), offers an essential network for veterans. Recognising the unique challenges that come with transitioning to civilian life, Nottingham Forest Community Trust provides veterans with a place to reconnect, share their stories, and build lasting bonds. Through events, matchday gatherings, and community activities, veterans from all branches of the armed forces find companionship, support, and renewed purpose.
For many, Forest Forces is a bridge back into the community. The programme offers more than just events; it provides a renewed sense of belonging and solidarity, allowing veterans to maintain the camaraderie and support they enjoyed during their service. Veterans like Damien, Martin, and Kevin have found friendship, reconnection, and purpose through the initiative—a testament to the power of community and shared experiences.
The Remembrance Fixture at The City Ground is a powerful moment each year, as veterans and serving soldiers from the Mercian Regiment unite with fans to honour the courage and sacrifices made by those who served and continue to serve. This collaboration ensures that veterans remain an integral part of the Nottingham Forest community, remembered and celebrated, and that their stories of dedication and resilience are honoured by future generations.
