Judith's Story

Why Supporting Veterans Matters

Our Reception Team member, Judith Irving, has a very personal connection to the Armed Forces community and has kindly agreed to share her family's story.

In October 2009, Lance Corporal Ashley Irving was serving with the 2nd Battalion, Duke of Lancaster's Regiment in Afghanistan.

During a fierce one-and-a-half-hour battle against Taliban forces in Shawqat, Ashley was positioned on the roof of a derelict compound when a bullet struck the left side of his helmet, skimming the back and missing his skull by mere millimetres.

The force of the impact knocked him unconscious for a few seconds. Despite suffering a fractured skull, his immediate concern was for the welfare of his fellow soldiers. After regaining consciousness, he climbed down from the roof, took refuge in a compound room, removed his helmet and bandaged his own head before running approximately 600 metres to await evacuation by armoured vehicle.

Ashley was taken to the medical centre before being flown by helicopter to the Army field hospital at Camp Bastion and later transferred to the Critical Care Unit at Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham, where he remained for nine days. His injuries included a fractured skull and the loss of 5% of the peripheral vision in his right eye.

Ashley reflected: "I know how lucky I have been. I shouldn't be here now. I don't know how it missed me. I never thought that helmets worked, but if I hadn't had that helmet on, I wouldn't be here."

Judith said: "We will be in the Army's debt forever for what they have done for us. We are very proud of him."

Seventeen years later

Seventeen years on from this life-changing incident, Ashley's determination and commitment have never wavered. He has successfully worked his way through the

ranks and is now a Sergeant Major with the 2nd Battalion, Duke of Lancaster's Regiment. He is currently serving in Kenya, continuing a distinguished military career built on resilience, leadership and dedication.

The Lasting Impact of Service

Military service can affect people long after they leave active duty.

Veterans may experience:

• Physical injuries and chronic pain
• Hearing or vision problems
• Mental health difficulties, including anxiety, depression or PTSD
• Challenges adjusting to civilian life
• Ongoing health conditions linked to military service

How We Can Help

If you have served in the Armed Forces, please tell a member of our team.

Recording your veteran status helps us:

• Recognise your service in your healthcare record
• Signpost you to specialist veteran services
• Support your physical and mental wellbeing
• Ensure you receive the care and understanding you deserve

Published: Nov 13, 2026