Op Telic: You Don't Know How Good Your Unit Is Until You Go To War

Land, Sea & Air - Stories from the Armed Forces

We meet Sarah Davis, Army Air Corps Ground Crew, one of the pioneering women deployed to the frontline during Op Telic 1.
Having joined-up in 1999, a time when the Armed Forces was going through changes - evolving in terms of equality and a time that would mark the start of several years of military campaigns.
We hear about getting ready to go, “I was kind of craving…doing my bit for Queen and Country…”
As well as operational duties in a combat zone, refuelling and rearming attack helicopters and underslung loads, “You don’t know how good or bad your unit is until you actually go to war.”
We also hear about the impact on loved ones back home, “I promised on this call, ‘Mum, I promise I’m never going to do this to you again.’”
To top it all, Sarah spins a few cracking dits highlighting the critical role of morale, listen out for the Union Flag pants.
Sarah is now involved with several military charities to help Veterans who are struggling, “we don’t want to leave anyone behind.”

Follow Sarah on Instagram

Links to organisations mentioned in this episode:

BFBS
Homes for Veterans
Military Wives Choir
The Rawthey Project
Soldiers Arts Academy

If you’re a member of the Armed Forces community and need support with your mental health, Op Courage can help.

Or you could phone the Combat Stress Helpline on: 0800 138 1619
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