A former member of the Pioneer Regiment, who lives in Eastry, has helped launch this year’s Poppy Appeal for Kent at County Hall in Maidstone.
Lee Wickham, age 37, of Cooks Lea served from 1999 to 2004 and received help from the Royal British Legion after he was medically discharged from the service.
He attended the ceremony with his wife Nikki and spoke highly of RBL which he described as a fantastic organisation.
Mr Wickham said: “The RBL strives to help those in need and does an amazing job. The perception is that they are only there to help the older generation, but people need to be aware that they are there for all ages.
“I would encourage people to support the RBL in any way possible because without their support the RBL could not help the brave men and women who have dedicated so much for their country.”
He left the Pioneer Regiment following a bad fall while on a night patrol in Iraq. He ruptured a tendon which, even after four surgical procedures, is still not repaired. After coming out of uniform Mr Wickham said he felt lost with no direction in life.
“I had no qualifications and a disability and started drinking heavily. I received a grant from the Royal British Legion to allow me to adapt the downstairs of my home into a bedroom and wet room.
“This has made life more comfortable as I no longer have to endure the agony of going upstairs for the bathroom and my wife no longer has to pander to almost every need.
“I lead a very simple life with my wife and daughter and couldn’t be happier. I have lots of very supportive friends and family, take a lot of interest in sport and just aspire to look after my family and make them happy and secure.”

* To find out about Remembrance Sunday services in Deal and Sandwich see the East Kent Mercury, November 1.