I have just found out that one of my oldest friends is in hospital and has been diagnosed with cancer. We are typical ex-military friends, in that I have probably seen him once or twice in the last 30 years, but when we speak it is like we have never been apart. I see him as the little brother I never had and know that no matter what, we will always have each other’s back.
This special relationship is shared within the ex-military community and it is something that probably, and sadly, could not survive in any other culture. Throughout my adult life I have both recognised and benefited from friendships that were built on integrity, focused on open, honest and genuine feelings, with little if anything held back. As I get older I realise how lucky I have been to be part of this band of brothers, sharing and enjoying relationships that transcend time. For those that have fallen along the way, we say “we will remember them” and we truly mean it and talk of them often in doing so. Having updated my friends on the diagnosis of this old friend, they immediately pick up on it and send their best wishes; after all, he is one of our own.
There is no doubt in my mind that we will support our ex-colleague in any way possible and that sets us apart. He will know we are there for him and that every one of us will join him in his fight , at a time when many are so alone. I am so very grateful for the start in life that was afforded me through the Army Apprentice College (AAC) in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, 45 years ago. How lucky am I?
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