Bravery, Injury and the Future - Ian Bailey, the Falklands War & the Battle for Mount Longdon

02/21/25 • 99 min

In this episode, we feature Ian Bailey MM, a Falklands War Veteran and former Parachute Regiment section commander. Growing up in North Wales, Ian followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, a fellow Military Medal recipient from World War One. At just 22 years old, Ian led his section in the Battle for Mount Longdon, one of the most intense and decisive engagements of the war. Shot in the thigh as he advanced on an enemy machine gun, Ian was left unable to move, before being shot again - his leadership and bravery that night in the chaos of battle earned him the Military Medal.

In this episode, Ian reflects on his journey from a young soldier to a war veteran, the realities of combat and how the injuries he sustained on Mount Longdon have caught up with him in later life. He also shares his thoughts on veteran care today and whether it’s time to rethink how the nation supports those who have served.

Previous Episode

From Cornwall to Conflict, Jazz and her Military Working Dogs

In this episode, we share the extraordinary story of Jazz, a military working dog handler from Cornwall whose lifelong love of working dogs inspired her to take on a unique and critical role in the army. Deployed to Afghanistan, Jazz and her canine partners operated on the front lines, searching vehicles detecting improvised explosive devices and safeguarding their unit in one of the most perilous environments imaginable.

We trace Jazz’s journey from her home in Cornwall through rigorous military training to the battlefields of Afghanistan, uncovering the unbreakable bond between handler and dog and the bravery it takes to face danger every day. Then after an IED attack tragically ended her military career, Jazz's enduring passion for working dogs continues as she leads efforts in training the next generation of canine partnerships. This is a story of trust, courage and resilience in the face of immense adversity.

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Farm Life to Frontline, John Waller’s Journey from County Durham to Korea

In this episode, we sit down with John Waller, a 92-year-old veteran of the Korean War whose incredible journey began on a busy family farm in County Durham. Conscripted for National Service, John made the decision to enlist as a regular soldier, trading farm life for military service.

John shares his memories of Berlin, where he played football in the Olympic Stadium, before being posted to Korea as a battalion signaller. He reflects on the challenges of war, including working under mortar fire and the daily demands of frontline service. He also looks back on his time in Egypt, his lifelong love of music and his return visits to Berlin and Korea decades later.