Simon Weston well known Army veteran, known for surviving life-altering injuries, suffered in the Falklands War. Serving in the Welsh Guards since he was just 16 years of age, Simon is an incredibly brave, inspirational and courageous individual. A survivor of such terrible circumstance, Simon is now sought as an inspirational and motivational speaker to share his story as a war hero and to motivate others through his story.
Joining the Welsh Guards aged just 16 in 1978, Simon took well to life in service, going on operations across Kenya, Northern Ireland and Berlin. In 1982 he was deployed on a mission that would change his life, boarding RFA Sir Galahad during the Falkland War. Not long after boarding the vessel, it was struck by bombs of the Skyhawk Argentine fighters, leaving the ship engulfed in flames which was exacerbated by the flammable contents of the transport ship. Fortunately, Simon was one of few to survive with 22 of 30 men killed. Despite sustaining 46% burns to his body and being left with life-changing facial scarring, Simon came away a survivor of the Bluff Cove Air Attacks.
Fortunate to be alive, Simon underwent serious reconstructive surgery including 96 surgical operations which aimed to use skin from his shoulders to made eyelids and reconstruct his nose. As a result of Simon’s trauma, his mental health suffered and he became suicidal. However, with support, Simon was able to overcome his demons, an experience he now discusses at events as a speaker. Since his mental and physical recovery, Simon has gained a platform, advocating the rights of veterans and military troops. He has appeared on prominent programmes, such as ITV News to push the importance of the correct treatment and healthcare for Army veterans and to bring awareness to the challenge faced on leaving the military.
Now a recognisable figure in the media, Simon has been the subject of five BBC documentaries exploring his incredible life in the military and subsequent charitable commitments as the founder of The Weston Spirit. He has been the subject of This Is Your Life, written three non-fiction books, including his autobiography which was a number one best seller and is the Director of Zappawoo security company. Awarded with a CBE for services to charity, and the Freedom of the City of Liverpool amongst other accolades, Simon’s life story is nothing short of remarkable, leading him to become one of the most sought-after speakers on the circuit, and complete a highly successful 20 date UK tour, where he inspired audiences.
