Be proud to support serving personnel like Alan
Published:
When Sergeant Alan found himself struggling with the effects of post-operational stress, he realised he couldn’t face it alone. Reaching out for support was a difficult step, but one that enabled him to get the help he needed. He can’t thank you enough for making that possible.
Sergeant Alan has served for 22 years in the RAF, now working for the RAF Force Protection Centre at RAF Honington. Throughout his career, Alan has completed multiple operational tours, including Operation Pitting – the evacuation of Kabul in 2021.
The demanding nature of such a dangerous overseas deployment meant that Alan began experiencing ongoing mental health challenges, including symptoms consistent with post-operational stress.
By 2025, his situation had worsened significantly. Alan said, “Since Op Pitting, I’ve had post-operational stress. It had been building up for years. In 2025, it really caught up with me.”
Alan was encouraged by his unit padre and medical centre to contact the Fund. “I reached out myself. It was extremely emotional; I remember crying in the office after making that phone call.”
Thanks to your support, the response was quick, and Alan received support through our Listening and Counselling Service. The support helped him manage his stress, which reduced overthinking, and he began to process his experiences. “It helped me start closing some of the doors on my issues. It made a massive difference at the time.”
In May, Alan completed a half marathon to give back to the Fund. “Every pound helps. It all goes into supporting serving and retired personnel, no matter how small the amount. If you feel like you need a bit of help, just reach out. Don’t wait until things get worse.”