Erskine Hospital, as it was known, opened its doors in 1916 to care for the wounded of the First World War. Young men marched off in 1914 in defence of the free world and came back from the battlefields limbless and bearing terrifying wounds. The carnage carried on for four years. Just over twenty years later another generation went to war again. World War II proved the most devastating war of all time. Since then there have been more than 90 conflicts throughout the world. In fact, since the ending of the Second World War there has been just one year that our great British forces have not been engaged in war or peace keeping initiatives around the world. 

My story is simply to run across Iceland carrying 8-11 kg of kit raising awareness and money for a cause, for a charity that continues to support our veterans and their families. Visit the unit and meet the men and woman who not only fought for their country but also their friends, their regiment, and the honour of the cap badge and you will understand why.

One of the residents I spoke to just wanted a patch of grass to call his own, a garden to plant and admire. One resident was prompted to tell me his story, his history. He looked me in the eyes and said " son I have no history". I will never forget the words of one gentleman when I explained to him about my challenge, from one ex soldier to another he smiled and said " Dig In !!!" 

This is not my story, this is their story, so give and share the page, embrace the opportunity to contribute for the Centenary  1916-2016, lets make it another 100yrs.