I joined the Parachute Regiment in 2009 at the age of 17. I’d heard nothing but great things about the Regiment and knew it wasn’t going to be an easy journey to become part of it. In fact, that’s exactly what drew me to it. I’ve always enjoyed pushing myself and taking on challenges that most people would rather avoid.

Less than a yeah later after passing out of ITC, I deployed to Afghanistan on my first operational tour. It was there that I really understood what people meant when they talked about the airborne brotherhood. The Regiment is full of people who look after each other, and that is something that has stayed with me throughout my career.

Since then, I have been fortunate enough to deploy to Bosnia and take part in exercises across the world, including the USA, Kenya, the Falkland Islands, Jordan, Japan and Belize plus many more. Every place has brought different experiences and challenges, but the one constant has always been the people. The friendships I have made and the opportunities the Regiment has given me are things I will always be grateful for.

Fast forward over 17 years and I’m incredibly proud to still be serving. Looking back, joining the Regiment is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It has shaped the person I am today, given me opportunities I never imagined, and introduced me to friends who have become family.

I’ve wanted to run the London Marathon for a while now, and I thought next year is as good a time as any (even though I’m completing a degree, getting married and trying to keep my future wife happy). It will be one of the biggest physical and mental challenges I’ve set myself outside of my military career, but that’s exactly why I’m doing it.

I’m raising money for Support Our Paras because I want to give something back to the Regiment that has supported me and given me some of the best years of my life. The charity provides invaluable support to serving Paratroopers, veterans and their families, ensuring that when members of our airborne brotherhood need help, they’re never facing it alone.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how much, I’d be hugely grateful. Every pound raised will help Support Our Paras continue supporting serving Paratroopers, veterans and their families.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and thank you for your support.