Meet the Veterans

Richard Spence is a decorated former Commissioned Officer and Ranger with over 30 years of exemplary service in the British Army. His career began in 1989 and included frontline deployments in Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Sierra Leone, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the West African Sahel. Notably, he commanded a Platoon during Operation HERRICK in 2006, leading his men through some of the fiercest combat since the Korean War. For his leadership under fire, Richard was awarded the NATO Joint Chiefs Commendation for distinguished service.

Throughout his career, Richard specialised in weaponry, tactics, and training. As a senior instructor at the British Army’s leading training institutions and later as Director of Training at the Infantry Battle School, he played a key role in shaping doctrine and live-fire tactical training. His deep technical expertise also positioned him as an advisor to the UK Ministry of Defence in compensation cases involving Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Non-Freezing Cold Injuries.

Following his transition from the military, Richard continued his commitment to global stability as a senior advisor on International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights within the UK Government’s Civilian Stabilisation Group. He holds a Master’s in Sustainable Development, an MBA, and professional credentials in Human Security Programming from the United Nations Systems Staff College.

As a Partner at Veterans for Veterans, Richard brings his operational insight, leadership, and compassion to the forefront, advocating for a veteran-led, veteran-driven approach to health, rehabilitation, and rightful compensation.

Quote: “Becoming a partner at Veterans for Veterans was a natural extension of my service. Too many veterans fall through the cracks when it comes to getting the care, recognition, and compensation they deserve. At VFV, we’re not just offering support, we’re rebuilding trust and fighting to make sure no one is left behind. It’s about veterans helping veterans, with the insight and integrity that only lived experience can provide.”

Paul Haddock is a highly respected former Infantry Non-Commissioned Officer with a decade of operational experience, having served in Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Sierra Leone, and Iraq. As a key member of the elite Reconnaissance and Close Observation Platoon, he played an instrumental role in advancing intelligence and surveillance capabilities within the 16 Air Assault Brigade.

Since transitioning from military service, Paul has brought his leadership and commitment to the Veterans for Veterans initiative. Well-regarded in both the veteran and civilian security sectors, he is a passionate advocate for the wellbeing of armed forces personnel, during active duty and especially through the complex journey back to civilian life.

Paul is particularly dedicated to supporting fellow veterans in navigating the challenges of service-related injury claims. Drawing from personal experience, he offers valuable guidance to ensure that those who have served receive the recognition, care, and support they rightly deserve.

Quote: “Having walked the path myself, I know how challenging the transition from military to civilian life can be, especially when dealing with service-related injuries. Through Veterans for Veterans, I’m committed to making sure no one faces that journey alone. Every veteran deserves to be heard, supported, and recognised for their sacrifice.”

Kristian Sackey is a former British Army Non-Commissioned Officer with a distinguished service career spanning a decade, including frontline roles with the Irish Guards and the elite Guards Parachute (PARA) Platoon. Beginning his military journey in 1997 as a mechanised infantry Warrior Gunner Commander in Germany, Kristian quickly rose through the ranks to become a Section Commander in the Guards PARA Platoon, where he served for four years.

His operational deployments included Northern Ireland, Kosovo, and Iraq, alongside major training exercises in Belize, Canada, Poland, Kenya, and Kuwait, demonstrating a career marked by adaptability and operational excellence across a range of global theatres.

Since leaving the Armed Forces in 2007, Kristian has continued to serve in high-risk environments, applying his skills in close protection and security management with both the United States Department of Defence and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Now a committed advocate for veterans’ rights, Kristian plays an active role in helping former service personnel navigate complex compensation claims, particularly those related to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Drawing on his own experiences, he works tirelessly to ensure that no veteran is left behind when it comes to securing the recognition and support, they deserve.

Quote: “I served alongside some of the most dedicated individuals you’ll ever meet. My work now is about making sure those same people are heard, recognised, and properly compensated, especially when it comes to the hidden injuries like hearing loss that too many of us carry.”

Alan Baxter is a distinguished former Royal Marine and British Army Colour Sergeant, bringing over two decades of operational experience from deployments in Northern Ireland, Congo, and Afghanistan. As a Permanent Staff Instructor in Northern Ireland, Alan played a pivotal role in mentoring and shaping the next generation of service members. Following his recent transition from military life, he has channelled his dedication and leadership into the Veterans for Veterans initiative.

A respected figure in both veteran and civilian communities, Alan is deeply committed to advocating for the welfare of armed forces personnel—not only throughout their service but also during the often-complex transition to civilian life. Of particular importance to him is helping fellow veterans navigate the challenges of service-related injury claims. Drawing on his own experience, he is passionate about offering guidance and support to ensure that those who have served receive the recognition, care, and entitlements they deserve.

Quote: “I joined the Veterans for Veterans initiative because I believe in the strength of community, especially for those who’ve served. My enthusiasm for supporting Northern Ireland veterans stems from a deep respect for their service and a commitment to ensuring they receive the recognition, care, and camaraderie they warrant.”

Daniel Spruce is a highly respected former Warrant Officer Class 1, renowned for his expertise as an Ammunition Technician and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operator. Over a distinguished 20-year military career, he served in the Falklands, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning multiple honours, including a Mention in Despatches (MiD) for gallantry, a double Commander British Forces Commendation for exemplary service, and a Joint Forces Commander Commendation for distinguished conduct.

Following his transition from military service, Daniel has continued to lead with purpose as part of the Veterans for Veterans initiative. Respected across both the veteran community and commercial sector, he is a committed advocate for the wellbeing of armed forces personnel, during their service and especially in their return to civilian life.

Daniel is particularly passionate about supporting fellow veterans with service-related injury claims. Drawing on his own lived experience, he provides expert guidance to ensure that those who have served receive the recognition, care, and support they rightly deserve.

Quote: “Service leaves its mark on all of us; some visible, some not. My role now is to make sure that no veteran is left behind when it comes to getting the support they’ve earned. We’ve served our country; now we deserve to be served with fairness, dignity, and respect.”

Robert Davison is a former British Army Warrant Officer with over 18 years of distinguished service across both Infantry and 22 SAS. Throughout his career, he served in multiple operational theatres, including Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Sierra Leone, and Iraq. As a specialist in reconnaissance and covert surveillance, Robert played a pivotal role in enhancing intelligence-gathering capabilities. His outstanding contributions to operations were formally recognised with a Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Commendation.

Following his transition from military service, Robert has continued to serve his community through the Veterans for Veterans initiative. Respected across both the veteran and civilian security sectors, he is a tireless advocate for the welfare of armed forces personnel, during active service and especially as they navigate the often-complex reintegration into civilian life.

Robert is particularly committed to supporting veterans through the challenges of service-related injury claims. Drawing on his own lived experience, he provides trusted guidance to ensure that those who have served receive the recognition, care, and compensation they have earned.

Quote: “Service doesn’t end when you leave the military. For many of us, the hardest battles come afterwards. I’m committed to making sure veterans aren’t left to face them alone.”

Mark O’Sullivan is a highly respected former Non-Commissioned Officer in the Royal Military Police, with over a decade of operational experience as a close protection officer on deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition to his frontline service, Mark served as a specialist advisor on multiple training missions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, where he played a crucial role in shaping HMG’s overseas defence engagement strategy.

Since leaving the military, Mark has dedicated his leadership skills and unwavering commitment to the Veterans for Veterans initiative. Highly respected across both veteran and civilian circles, he consistently champions the welfare of service members, supporting them throughout their service and throughout the often-difficult transition back to civilian life.

Deeply driven by his own experiences, Mark is especially focused on helping veterans navigate the complex landscape of service-related injury claims. His passion lies in ensuring that those who have served are properly supported, recognised, and awarded the care and entitlements they have rightfully earned.

Quote: “I joined Veterans for Veterans because I understand firsthand the challenges that come with leaving military service, especially when dealing with injury claims and adjusting to civilian life. I’m committed to helping fellow veterans navigate this complex journey, ensuring they receive the support, recognition, and care they truly deserve.”

Andrew Bissett is a former British Army Non-Commissioned Officer with over a decade of dedicated service in the Royal Irish Regiment. During his military career, Andrew served in a number of operational environments, gaining extensive experience in frontline infantry operations. He later specialised as a weapons and tactics instructor, where he played a key role in training and developing the next generation of soldiers in combat readiness and battlefield effectiveness.

Since leaving the military, Andrew has remained committed to supporting the Armed Forces community through the Veterans for Veterans initiative. Known for his professionalism and deep understanding of both soldiering and transition, he is a respected figure among peers and those he now helps.

Andrew is particularly passionate about guiding veterans through the often-challenging process of service-related injury claims. Drawing on his own experiences, he offers honest, informed advice to ensure that those who’ve served are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.

Quote: “Working with Veterans for Veterans gives me a sense of purpose that’s hard to match. I know firsthand how tough it can be to navigate life after service, especially when you’re dealing with injuries or trying to find your place again. Being able to support other veterans through that process, on their terms, with honesty and understanding, means everything to me.”

Peter Ward is a distinguished former Royal Marine Commando with over two decades of operational experience, having served in Northern Ireland, Congo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. A specialist in reconnaissance and military intelligence, Peter played a central role in shaping future-facing doctrine throughout his career.

Since transitioning from active service, Peter has channelled his expertise, leadership, and sense of duty into Veterans for Veterans. He is a respected and trusted figure across both veteran and civilian communities, known for his deep commitment to championing the welfare of serving personnel and veterans alike.

Particularly dedicated to supporting those navigating service-related injury claims, Peter draws from his own experiences to offer clear, compassionate guidance. He remains passionately focused on ensuring that those who have served are properly recognised, supported, and empowered to access the care and entitlements they rightfully deserve.

Quote: “I’ve seen firsthand how complex and overwhelming the transition from military to civilian life can be, especially when dealing with injuries that aren’t always visible. I joined Veterans for Veterans because I believe no one should face that journey alone. We served together; now we support each other.”

Simon Griffin is a former Non-Commissioned Officer whose military career spanned a wide range of roles and units across the British Army. He began his service in February 1996, enlisting as an infantry soldier with the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment. After three and a half years, he transferred to the Royal Logistic Corps, retraining as a chef and supporting infantry, artillery, and commando units throughout his career.

During his time as a Corporal, Simon was selected as a Phase One instructor at ATFC Winchester, where he was awarded the prestigious Warrior Trophy by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, recognising his excellence as the best section commander. His career included numerous international exercises and operational deployments in Northern Ireland, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

Now a proud member of the Veterans for Veterans team, Simon draws on his extensive service experience and deep understanding of military camaraderie to advocate for the health and wellbeing of former service personnel. Simon’s work is driven by a desire to ensure that no veteran feels overlooked or isolated due to long-term conditions. His mission is simple: to help others feel heard, valued, and supported as they navigate life after service.

Quote: “I’ve seen firsthand how easy it is for veterans to slip through the cracks, especially when dealing with long-term issues like hearing loss. Veterans for Veterans gives us a chance to stand shoulder to shoulder again, this time, making sure no one is left behind. It’s about loyalty, understanding, and giving back to those who’ve already given so much.”

Stephen Gregory is a distinguished former British Army soldier with several years of infantry experience, including active deployments to Afghanistan. As a proud Fusilier, Stephen participated in some of the most demanding training exercises across the globe, developing deep expertise in kinetic weapons systems and combined arms operations.

Since transitioning from military service, Stephen has brought the same discipline, leadership, and sense of duty to his role within the Veterans for Veterans initiative. He is a respected figure across both military and civilian communities, known for his unwavering commitment to supporting the welfare of armed forces personnel, during service and throughout the complex journey back to civilian life.

Stephen is especially passionate about guiding veterans through the often-challenging process of service-related injury claims. Drawing from his personal experience, he advocates tirelessly to ensure that those who have served receive the recognition, care, and entitlements they rightfully deserve.

Quote: “Serving in the Army taught me the value of loyalty, resilience, and never leaving anyone behind. That same ethos drives me today, ensuring that every veteran, regardless of their circumstances, receives the support and recognition they’ve earned. We may hang up the uniform, but the duty to one another never ends.”

Lee Kelly is a highly respected former Infantry Senior Non-Commissioned Officer, with over a decade of frontline operational experience across Northern Ireland, the Balkans, and Iraq. Known for his integrity and leadership, Lee was a committed coach and mentor throughout his military career, shaping the development and future success of those under his command, both on operations and during peacetime.

Since leaving the military, Lee has channelled his technical knowledge and unwavering dedication into the Veterans for Veterans initiative. He is well regarded across both the veteran and civilian security communities and remains a passionate advocate for the welfare of serving personnel and veterans, particularly during the often-complex transition back to civilian life.

Driven by personal experience, Lee is especially committed to supporting veterans through the challenges of service-related injury claims. His insights and support have proved invaluable in helping others secure the recognition, care, and justice they deserve.

Quote: “I joined Veterans for Veterans because I’ve lived the challenges many of us face after service. It’s not just about helping people through the paperwork, it’s about making sure no one feels forgotten or left to fight alone. We stand shoulder to shoulder, just like we always did.”

Ian Getty is a former British Army Senior Non-Commissioned Officer with 12 years of distinguished service in the Royal Irish Regiment. Throughout his career, Ian deployed on operations in the Balkans, Sierra Leone, Iraq, and Afghanistan, where he gained extensive frontline experience in high-tempo environments. A senior weapons and tactics instructor, Ian was also trained and employed as a Tactical Air Control Party (TAC-P) operator, coordinating close air support in complex combat scenarios.

Following his transition from military life, Ian has remained dedicated to serving the Armed Forces community through the Veterans for Veterans initiative. Respected for his depth of knowledge and leadership, Ian is widely trusted by both former colleagues and those he now supports.

Ian is particularly committed to helping veterans navigate the challenges of service-related injury claims. Drawing on his own lived experience, he provides clear, honest guidance to ensure that those who’ve served are recognised, supported, and fairly compensated for their sacrifices.

Quote: “There’s a real sense of brotherhood at Veterans for Veterans, something that reminds me of the best parts of military life. I’ve been in those tough situations where you feel like no one understands what you’ve been through. Now I get to use my experience to help others through it. That’s what makes this work so worthwhile.”

Robert Holloman is a former United States Marine Corps Senior Non-Commissioned Officer with a decade of distinguished service. During his military career, Robert completed multiple operational deployments in Iraq, where he gained extensive experience in high-intensity combat environments. He later specialised as a senior weapons and tactics instructor, playing a vital role in preparing Marines for the realities of modern warfare.

Since transitioning from active duty, Robert has continued his commitment to the veteran community through the Veterans for Veterans initiative. As a key member of the VFV North American team, he is known for his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering dedication to those who have served.

Robert is particularly passionate about helping veterans navigate the often-difficult process of service-related injury claims. Drawing from his own lived experience, he provides clear, honest guidance to ensure veterans are properly recognised, supported, and fairly compensated for their service and sacrifice.

Quote “Working with Veterans for Veterans has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my life. Having served alongside British veterans in the private security world, I’ve seen their professionalism, grit, and loyalty firsthand. Being part of a team that spans both sides of the Atlantic, united by shared values and lived experience, gives real meaning to the work we do supporting those who’ve served.”

Gareth Clarke is a distinguished former Royal Navy Non-Commissioned Officer with over six years of military service as a ship’s communications operator. He served on multiple active deployments across the Gulf region and in Iraq, where he was awarded the Air Operations Iraq Medal in recognition of his contribution to operational effectiveness. Throughout his naval career, Gareth played a vital role in some of the Royal Navy’s most complex missions, developing specialist expertise in technical warfare systems and joint-service operations.

Since leaving the military, Gareth has continued to serve others through his work with the Veterans for Veterans initiative. He is widely respected across both the Armed Forces and civilian sectors for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering dedication to supporting fellow service personnel.

A passionate advocate for veterans’ rights, Gareth draws on his own experience to help others navigate the often-challenging process of claiming for service-related injuries. His work is driven by a deep belief in justice, ensuring those who have served receive the recognition, support, and compensation they deserve.

Quote: “I know from personal experience how tough the transition from military to civilian life can be, especially when you’re carrying injuries, both visible and invisible. That’s why I’m committed to standing alongside my fellow veterans, making sure they’re heard, supported, and properly compensated for their service.”

Paul Porter is a distinguished former Warrant Officer with a combined 23 years of service across the British and Australian Armies. A specialist in Joint Fires, he served as a Fire Support Team Commander (FST) and a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC), operating in a range of high-tempo environments with various artillery units.

Throughout his career, Paul completed multiple operational tours on Operation TELIC and Operation HERRICK, as well as Short Term Training Team (STTT) deployments to Oman, Nigeria, Denmark, Kenya, and Lithuania. His experience also includes major multinational exercises in Canada, the USA, India, Belize, and Kenya, as well as ship-based deployments aboard HMAS Canberra and Adelaide, supporting coalition operations and Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO).

In both the UK and Australia, he received formal commendations for his leadership and contribution to continuous improvement in training and development. A dual graduate with a BA in Management and a BA (Hons) in Psychology, he is currently furthering his academic journey with a master’s degree in psychology.

Today, Paul brings his operational insight, academic background, and commitment to excellence to the Veterans for Veterans initiative, continuing to serve his community by supporting the physical and psychological wellbeing of fellow service members.

Quote: “Whether you’re on operations or returning home, the mission never ends, it just changes. I’ve served alongside some of the best, and now it’s about ensuring those same people get the recognition, care, and support they’ve earned.”