Mark Smith

My Journey

As I left the army in 1997 after serving 9yrs with the Coldstream Guards, I never thought adapting to civilian life would be so hard.

When I left nobody told me how to stop being a soldier and I spiraled out of control trying to adapt, my life was a constant battle and I faced many hardships, including homelessnes, drug abuse, violence, attempted suicide and prison.

To live in modern society I had to place my pride to one side, and sought help, through various welfare services and charities.

Veterans In Action gave me the opportunity to walk as part of a team of ex servicemen, from John o Groats to Lands End in May 2010, Hadrian's Wall in September 2010 and part of the Dover to Cape Wrath walk in May 2011 to boost my confidence, self esteem and motivate me.

Since then I've gone from strength to strength and I've recently started in education and been accepted into college studying social sciences.

My family life is the best and lifes just getting better.

Trust those who genuinely want to help, Veterans In Action is run by veterans for veterans...

Sincerely Mark (Smudger) Smith.