80 years since VE Day, you may be remembering loved ones who lived and served during the Second World War. Just like David Dent MBE, who looks back on his grandfathers' achievements during WW2 and his own military career.
David may be connected to his grandfathers by bloodline. But Ben, Vernon and David are also united by unwavering duty and sacrifice to their country.
David joined the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps in the 1990s.
Working on the frontline in Bosnia and Northern Ireland, he provided emergency trauma care for those in need.
The excitement and opportunity of such a military career may have been appealing. But David's duty to keep his country safe ultimately drew him in, even if his duty resulted in sacrifice.
David left the Army in 2000 after shrapnel, brain, and traumatic back injuries resulted in severe chronic pain, PTSD and the eventual use of a wheelchair.
Today, he shares his experiences to advocate for veterans and their families. As an active spokesperson for the Armed Forces community, David received an MBE in 2022.
Today, he shares his experiences to advocate for veterans and their families. As an active spokesperson for the Armed Forces community, David received an MBE in 2022.
Like David, generations before him served to keep our country safe and were awarded for their dedication and resilience.
His father, John Dent, MBE, served in the Army from the late 1950s until the mid-80s. Before that, both of David's grandfathers served.
"Grandad Ben was decorated with numerous medals, and Grandfather Vernon received an MBE later in life as a civilian.
Unlike David, many World War Two veterans never fully shared their stories.
In an era where people were advised to 'keep calm and carry on', thousands of servicemen and women concealed their experiences of war. Including Vernon and Ben.
David explains, “Peace, quiet and family were the most important things to my grandfathers. Ben loved gardening. Vernon loved his little farmhouse. Neither ever spoke of their experiences in the war at all.”
Because of this, David only knows the facts about his grandfathers’ military service. However, from these facts, David can give Vernon and Ben's WW2 stories a voice.
Meet David’s Grandfather Vernon
"Grandfather Vernon signed up to the Territorial Army in 1937. Three years later, he was commissioned as an Officer, and by 1943, he was posted to the Faroe Islands to help protect cargo ships from enemy attack. This ensured vital food, equipment, and raw materials safely reached the Home Front.
Then, in 1944, he fought in the Battle of Caen. This bloody three-month struggle between German and Allied forces was a pivotal moment in liberating Western Europe. Sadly, Vernon was wounded in battle, and he was evacuated back to the UK for medical treatment.
By 1945 he had recovered, and he was posted to Eritrea, Africa. Droughts, war, and economic challenges had ravaged the country and affected food supply.
Vernon advised on farming practices to help increase food production and reduce food aid. This led to him achieving the rank of Acting Major, and he was demobilised around 1947.
All of my Grandfather’s contributions to society as a civilian were recognised with an MBE, of which I'm incredibly proud.”
Meet David’s Grandad Ben
“When the Second World War was declared in 1939, Grandad Ben had served in the Army for eight years.
Ben was sent to Orkney two years into the war to help prepare defences against potential German invasion. By the time the war was at its peak, he was posted in York with the Royal Army Pay Corps, where he ensured British troops' logistical and financial needs were met.
Eleven days after victory in Europe was declared, Ben left the UK for Lagos, Nigeria. War may have ended on the Home Front, but the war in Japan continued, and British Forces were sent to Africa to help prepare for any eventuality.
Ben's time there was challenging - the heat and humidity were stifling, and the unfamiliar surroundings daunting. But he pressed on, ensuring the smooth operation of military logistics and administration until December 1946, when he returned to the UK.
After nearly four decades of service, Ben retired in 1970.
His career was decorated with numerous medals, including the Defence Medal, Victory Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal, which is awarded to Armed Forces members for outstanding meritorious achievement or service.
Grandad’s journey through WW2 and beyond is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to duty.”
Ensuring our heroes of yesterday are never forgotten
David explains, it's crucial to remember this generation of soldiers and their families.
“As we slowly lose this incredible generation, including my Grandparents, it’s vital we preserve their stories. By remembering them, we honour their bravery, dedication, and the ultimate sacrifices they made for our freedom.”
As VE Day 80 approaches, perhaps you’re remembering loved ones who served in WW2 or other conflicts. Whenever or wherever they served their stories, experiences and sacrifices matter, because as David points out, it’s crucial we remember each and every one.
“People made immense sacrifices during WW2. Many lost their lives, endured severe hardships, and faced unimaginable challenges. So, if like me, you only know the facts about a loved one’s military service, it’s still important to share it as an act of remembrance, so their stories live on.”